Expanded reach aim for Multicultural Centre
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
First-hand experience of settling in Marlborough combined with long-time knowledge of the community will continue connecting the region’s diverse communities. After trying to retire for the third time, founding member Margaret Western has stepped aside as manager of the Marlborough Multicultural Centre and taken up the new Community Development Partner role.
Margaret, a founding member who helped establish MMC in 2007 is handing over the managerial role to Sigrun Steinhagen, a long-time Marlborough local with her own migrant journey having moved from Germany.
“As someone who immigrated to New Zealand 35 years ago and moved to four regions, I understand how hard it can be to start over,” says Sigrun. “MMC’s mission to build unity in and belonging by collaborating with government and community services to create a safe, inclusive space for people of all cultures truly resonates and we’ve got exciting
plans ahead for the community, including new social enterprises that tap into migrant skills and boost our sustainability.
“At the moment we’re setting up the groundwork and doing our strategic planning for this year and beyond with events and collaborations in mind, especially around conversational English learning and the upcoming local
elections around rights and responsibilities.”
The newly-created Community Development Partner role reflects the Centre’s response to the need to enhance collaboration with local organisations, community stakeholders, and the wider MMC team to support the successful resettlement of migrants, former refugees, and re-
located nationals.
The position’s focus is on nurturing inclusive community engagement and driving forward MMC’s long-term strategic objectives.
The Centre also delivers a wide range of community programmes: from morning teas that build language confidence and friendships, to La Hora del Cuento at the Marlborough District Library, to wellness classes with over 300 enrolments at Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000, the annual Multicultural Festival that brings thousands to Pollard Park.
“There’s still a perception that MMC is only for a few communities but we’re working with over 40 nationalities now, and our services go deep into the heart of Marlborough. You’d be surprised how wide our reach actually is with strong partnerships with key agencies, funding organisations, and the local business community,” says Margaret. For more information contact the Marlborough Multicultural Centre at manager@mmc.nz.
Hill climb enthusiasm rewarded
Wednesday morning athletic endeavours from Marlborough’s Special Olympians have been recognised for their week-in, week-out efforts.
enough watches and memory space to keep up.”
The challenge morphed into jogging to the Witches’ Hat nonstop where athletes try and jog further than they did the previous week.
The jog challenge was set back at the start of 2024 where coach Bob Tate challenged the Special Olympic athletes to jog nonstop for 30 minutes at Athletic Park on Wednesday morning at 6.45am. “I was totally amazed that even through winter, when there was frost on the ground, the athletes still got picked up by me and carried on training.
“We moved to the Wither Hills because some athletes jogged for the full 30 minutes, some at 10 and others at 5, and I didn’t have
Footage on the Special Olympics Marlborough social media site alerted Grant Bennett from Marlborough Roads to their efforts. He was so impressed by the group’s efforts he personally decided to fund medals for their participation and was on hand to present them individually last week.
“We’re hoping to attract more athletes to join and show people what awesome individuals these athletes are,” added Bob.
Special Olympics Marlborough’s jog challenge group were in for a pleasant surprise at the Witches’ Hat on Wednesday morning. Photo: Supplied.
Marlborough Multicultural Centre’s Margaret Western, Sigrun Steinhagen and Marcelo Gonzalez are set to expand their presence with more hands on the job. Photo: William Woodworth.
No Kandoo - Graeme Dingle Foundation Marlborough to close
After 14 years of operations and over 10 million local student learning hours, a national restructure has seen Marlborough’s arm of the Graeme Dingle Foundation fold.
All roles at the Graeme Dingle Foundation Marlborough have been disestablished as the national organisation moves to change the delivery of its educational programmes in schools.
The Future of Work Conference 2025 will go on as planned, while Stars and Career Navigator programmes will pause as of May 19, 2025 and Kiwi Can will continue until the end of Term 2.
Hopes are that the Graeme Dingle Foundation’s programmes continue to operate in Marlborough under the new centralised system, but outgoing Regional Manager Kelvin Watt says the 14 years of local efforts have left a distinct mark.
“I hope our legacy will be a generation of thriving young people and a stronger community ... we’re humbled when we look back at the amazing achievements of the past 14 years of operation locally,” says Kelvin.
“Without the license agreement
from national office, which wouldn’t apply if the process to centralise goes ahead, it’s just not possible for us to continue as we do now.”
Principal of Mayfield School and longtime supporter David Nott was “pretty upset and disappointed it has come to this”.
“The Graeme Dingle Foundation’s values tied in beautifully with what we were trying to implement in our school, and they’ve just supported us beautifully all the way through with some amazing leaders through the place.
“It’s been a long and happy relationship – one of the very first Kiwi Can leaders is teaching here, and we were one of the first schools to move to fortnightly lessons just to make it work recently – and we’ve loved having your people and presence in our school.”
Ted Culley was an instrumental figure in getting Kiwi Can set up in Marlborough 14 years ago, and says local kids will lose out due to national issues.
“I’ve fundraised over $60,000 for this organisation, and I know how hard it is to raise money to support such comprehensive efforts, so I hope the head office sees how much students and the
wider community supports the Foundation’s efforts here, because the kids need it. The team in Marlborough have done an awesome job engaging with the local community, and given they’d put themselves on a firm financial stance, it’s a real travesty the loss of local efforts is a cause of the national level struggles.
“It took a whole lot of effort and willpower to get started, and when you see what the Foundation’s efforts does for kids you become a believer, but I think they’ll struggle to bring the same levels of enthusiasm to Marlborough students from a centralised position.”
Fellow supporter Mark Watson of Robinson Construction agreed
that “it is a very sad time for the organisation, but even a sadder time for the community and the young people.
Graeme Dingle Marlborough board member and volunteer Kimberley Thomson was deeply saddened, and says she wishes she has the same opportunities the Foundation has provided as a kid. “It’s devastating ... it’s our local young people and our community that are losing this, so I hope that national office restores the programmes in Marlborough.
In a response email, the Graeme Dingle Foundation said that the local board made the decision to relinquish the license early, and they are “actively exploring how our programmes might continue
in the region, though no plans have been finalised at this stage”.
“We have a commitment to thinking long-term, making bold decisions, and building a stronger, more resilient national organisation to support young people across the country,” says CEO Jo Malcolm-Black.
“We understand that this change is deeply felt by those who have contributed to the Marlborough Trust over the years - their legacy is significant, and we thank the local team, board, and supporters for their passion and commitment.
“We also appreciate the strong support from schools and community leaders who want to see our work continue in the region. “That is our goal too, so we are open to exploring the best path forward and will share further updates when possible.”
As he steps away, Kelvin Watt said that he trusts GDF head office “will do their utmost to continue to support our local young people and amazing community.”
“We have made the very strong recommendation to Graeme Dingle Foundation nationally that there continue to be the Kiwi Can, Stars and Career Navigator programmes locally, to serve the obvious need in Marlborough”.
Foundation management and supporters David Nott, Kimberley Thomson, Mark Watson, Ted Culley and Kelvin Watt are set to bid mascot Kandoo Kiwi farewell. Photo: William Woodworth.
John Bertrand Collectables Are Buying in Blenheim and Picton Next Week
Once again, the gold and collectables buyers from Wellington company John Bertrand Collectables are visiting Blenheim and Picton next week. Mr Tony Grant from the company says, “If you are downsizing or wanting to dispose of things because they no longer serve any purpose to you or your family bring them in”.
“Next week will be a great opportunity to have any items you want to sell assessed by our buyers” said Mr Grant. Particularly wanted are Gold and Silver (in any of its forms) and Collectables such as Coins, Banknotes, War Medals, Old Wind-up Watches and other interesting Small Collectables.
“We are keen buyers, especially of the items in the list below” said Mr Grant.
“Nothing is too small for our consideration. We are just as happy buying 1 item as we are buying 1,000 items” he said. The buyers will be in Blenheim and Picton next week. (see details below). As Tony Grant points out “If you are in doubt about any items you may wish to sell, bring them along for an instant appraisal.”
Gold & Silver At Near Record Prices
During these uncertain times we have seen a sharp increase in the price of precious metals. The gold price in New Zealand is at near record levels so gather up all your unwanted items and take them along to the buyers. Tony Grant says “We can buy old gold items in all forms, including Jewellery (Rings, Chains, Brooches etc), Coins (Sovereigns and the like), Alluvial (River Gold), virtually anything, even Gold Teeth! We also need all Sterling Silver including Cups, Tea Services, Cutlery and Old Coins” he said.
Interesting Small Collectables Wanted
The buyers from John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd, visiting Blenheim and Picton next week are happy to look at any interesting items, for example vintage pocket and wristwatches such as Rolex, Men’s Omega, Breitling and gold watches etc. Also wanted, pre 1950’s picture postcards, Maori and Pacific artefacts, old fountain pens and other small antique or historical items.
“If you have something unusual which you would like to sell, please bring it into one of our venues, we would like the chance to at least have a look at it” said Tony Grant, buyer for the Company. “We will consider anything which may be of interest to a collector” he said.
Some Big Dollars in Early Banknotes
Early New Zealand Banknotes dated before 1932 are currently fetching big money! This is according to Mr Tony Grant, author of the John Bertrand New Zealand Coin & Banknote Catalogue. Mr Grant is in Blenheim and Picton next week on a buying trip for John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd and would be very keen to see any of these issues. “We will pay at least $300 for any undamaged Ten Shilling or One Pound banknote
from a New Zealand trading bank dated 1932 or before.
Denominations of five pounds and higher would be worth from $700. “Any banknote dated prior to 1900 would be worth at least $1000” said Mr Grant.
Also purchased are any Reserve Bank of New Zealand pre-decimal issues, especially 50 Pound notes. All overseas banknotes are also wanted, especially early Pacific Island issues.
Collectors Need War Medals
Currently, throughout NZ and the world there is a big demand by collectors for war medals. These cover all wars right through from the New Zealand Land Wars and the Boer War, to the First and Second World Wars and the later Korea and Vietnam conflicts. New Zealand Servicemen and Women first served overseas in the Boer War in South Africa around 1900 and the war medals awarded for this service are needed by the buyers, as are any other Medals from early New Zealand and the New Zealand Wars. General service medals from both the First and Second World Wars will also be purchased, but as can be imagined these were awarded in fairly large numbers. “If a group of medals has any special award for bravery such as the Military Medal, Military or Flying Cross or other medals for Distinguished Conduct or Meritorious Service, these can add great value to a group” stated Mr Tony Grant, buyer for John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd. “Many families have old medals, some dating back to early Imperial days, that they are not sure what to do with. These are better off in the hands of collectors who will look after them. We will be happy to look at any war medals whatsoever, just bring them in to venues” he said.
Old Coins Can Toss Up a Rarity
Do you have a bunch of old coins sitting around in your drawers and cupboards? You just never know what rarities may be lurking there. The advice from Tony Grant from John Bertrand (Collectables) Limited is to “bring them in and let us have a look”. “No need to sort anything out just bring them in ‘as is’ and please don’t clean them! We can go through coin accumulations and collections fairly quickly” he said. The buyers are particularly keen to buy pre 1946 New Zealand Silver Coins for at least 20 times their face value (more for quantity). “In any event we will buy All Coins,” said Mr Grant.
Mr Anthony (Tony) W. Grant
Zealand Incorporated
(Collectables) Ltd
Banknote Catalogue
Coffee and haircuts connecting generations
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Blenheim’s old community college building has come full circle with a focus on generational collaboration and beating loneliness as new iwi-led programmes begin.
The Tauwhiro Café and Hair Salon, and its related programmes aiming to connect young and old, has sprung from Ngāti Rārua’s aim to upskill young people, foster inter-generational interaction and increase wellbeing. All members of the community are welcome at the Scott St café and hair salon to engage with rangatahi who have been selected to work with Ngāti Rarua in Hāpai Ake.
“A need for Ngāti Rārua drives what we do, but the more that benefit the merrier,” said operations manager Michelle Lavender. “One of our tupuna, Tana Pukekohatu, shortly before he passed left us with the mission to live well and be kind to all peoples. I like to think that he knew that all boats rise on the rising tide.
“Isolation in general is bad for you with obvious health and education repercussions and with a health and social service already running the purchase of the old community college that provided us with a great skeleton
to start running more programmes from.
“Many of our older people don’t have whānau support so the idea they can share a coffee and a chat with young people, instil some wisdom and be a role model is great.
“Likewise, we’re starting with 13 to 15-year-olds, our digital generation, so they can teach our kaumātua just as much as our kaumātua can teach them.”
The new project has seen skilled people get aboard the business and the mentoring opportunities within it, Ray Barr moving from Herb & Olive
to run the café and Yolande McIntyre sharing her skills in the hair salon.
“I’ve been in hospitality for 25 years, but this job was more about people, especially our rangatahi”, says Ray.
“I personally love the connection I make with our elderly people, and hearing their stories, so I’m pleased that they can come here and just sit all day if they like.
“The community focus brought me to Ngāti Rarua in the first place, but we do need give a safe space to connect and look after our next generation by having people teach, whether that’s our elderly or us”, agreed Yolande.
An annual community playdate for Marlborough’s preschoolers returns next week, encouraging families to come together for a fun time.
The Nurture@Home Marlborough Preschoolers Family Fun Day returns to Brayshaw Heritage Park on Thursday May 22 from 10.30am-1pm, with a wet weather postponement date of Thursday May 29. The fun day for the whole family will have a “Teddy & Trains” theme, with all members of the family encouraged to come down and enjoy the entertainment throughout the day. “The idea behind this is a moraleboosting event where community can come together, support one another, and boost Brayshaw Park which is a great community resource,” says home educator Ang Eaton.
Brayshaw Heritage Park will be free entry for the family day, with miniature train rides and children’s entertainment throughout the day, as well as face painting, arts, crafts and local food carts available to feed the family.
Yolande McIntyre with Michelle Lavender in the salon chair at Tauwhiro Salon in the old community college on Scott St. Photo: William Woodworth.
Last year’s Nurture@Home Marlborough Preschoolers Family Fun Day saw preschools close for a collective playdate. Photo: Supplied.
Picton back in the driver’s seat NEWS
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
After the first opportunity for young drivers to sit their driving tests in Picton proved so successful, the opportunity will return later this month.
Project facilitator and REAP Marlborough CEO Sharon
Blount was thrilled with the April 17 response, and even more so that her partners were eager for a second session which is set up for Saturday, May 24 from 8.30am until 2pm.
“The first day ended up with 13 testers and nine new licenses, a few who had registered pulled
out but they’re eager to have it come back and they can resit.
“Jan from VTNZ Christchurch, who was the mobile test officer on the day, was pleased with the numbers who attended and was just as excited as Sara and I when a student passed.
“It was great to have a group of
six students take in the preparation classes in the week - with all but one who attended the classes passing their test, and it’s been really successful, so much so we’re bringing it back this month.”
Contact REAP for more info on ace@reapmarlborough.co.nz
Rotary’s mammoth garage sale
The Rotary Blenheim South’s Mammoth Garage Sale & Book Fair is set to take place at Waterlea Racecourse from May 16-18. This annual event traditionally offers a treasure trove of bargains, including books,
household items, and more.
The projects which funds from the Mammoth Garage Sale & Book Fair support are visible throughout the region, with Rotary offering from sporting sponsorship and
helping fund projects such as Ward’s brandnew Whale Trail shelter. Donations are welcome and can be dropped off at the racecourse on Wednesday and Saturday.
“Break the Silence, End the Violence”: Whakatika I tō Mana, an event dedicated to raising awareness about and ending sexual violence, will take over the Marlborough Events Centre on Saturday May 24. The 10am to 4pm day event focuses on rangatahi young people with fun activities for the whole family and enthralling speakers like mental health advocate Jazz Thornton, and Maataa Waka’s own Mike Nowacki for a local view. The 6pm to 9pm adults evening event features Nicola ‘Nix’ Adams, a prominent voice in Aotearoa for her inspiring journey from a troubled past. With delicious kai, live music, and powerful talks, Maataa Waka promises an enlightening and engaging day for all to learn from. Registrations are open until 24th May 2025, learn more at maataawaka.co.nz/events
Budget proposed: The Marlborough District Council presented its draft budget for the Annual Plan 2025-26, proposing a 9.52% average rates increase, down from the 10.62% forecast in the Long Term Plan. The draft budget allocates $117M for core infrastructure, with significant investments in roading, water, and community facilities. The final budget will be adopted on June 26, following further refinements and public feedback.
Not all Great Sharks are White
McKendry Motors Ltd
58 Charles Street, Blenheim
A.H. Steve 021 838 936
Andrew 021 893 985
Rotary Blenheim South members are getting Waterlea Racecourse ready to host Marlborough’s Mammoth Garage Sale this weekend.
Photo: Alex Roberton.
2. M ike Just, Lizzie McMullen, Rhianna Just, Dominique Engle and Biagio Castaldo
3. R ichard Barron, Neville Gander, Cameron Gander
4. O liver Brailsford and Hunter Marfell
5. Kylie Potts and Diana Jamieson
6. Kylie McGarva and Gina Bateman
7. D ominique Engel, Cameron Vawter and Emma Rossignol
8. Z ach Meihuizen, Fiona Smith, Anneliese van Dijk
9. C raig Johnson, Max Read and Luis Guajardo
10. Corrie Adams and Pam Orchard
William Woodworth
Rotary
Rotary
Get
1. Cayn Gordon, Jeremy Rollo, Cody Pelvin, Eilish Herrick, Paul Battersby and Hori Mcgregor
Photos:
Monday saw International Nurses Day. Do you think nurses get enough acknowledgement for their efforts every other day of the year?
Jayne Clarke
It’s lovely to have the support we have here today and always nice to be properly appreciated for the day, but we’d like to see more support every day.
Stuart Smith
I’m married to a nurse so I’m very biased, because they go so under-appreciated and unrecognised until you need them most.
Annika Grant There is a need for more nursing recognition because we do go above and beyond for our community.
Dillon Senior
I don’t think so, they turn up day-in day-out and do thankless tasks while we tend to go day to day not thinking about what they do unless we need them, so for the rapid relief team a lunch and dinner shout today was the least we could do.
Opinion
Community Comments
NO KANDOO – GDFM TO CLOSE
Goodness me this is a real shame and I imagine gutting for Kelvin and all the GD team. Please be proud of the 14 years of positive influence to so many of our youth. Lucy Walter.
Gutted. Such amazing programmes that benefit hundreds of students, their whanau and our schools a year. Nothing else in our community to compare. Jane Brett Hogg
Hope they know with closing that, they will lose all the local sponsorship money that goes with it. Hollie Moreton.
SAD. Linkwater kids benefited so much. I jumped from a plane to support GDF Marlborough. Thanks GDF Marlborough you have been phenomenal! Barbara Tippet.
Wow!! Was a loss to Marlborough schools, kids and young people. GDF really has made a difference. The Stars programme at MGC was a shining example. Katharine Sampson.
This is so sad. There’s such a great team at GDF here, and the kids really benefit from these programs. Brierley Stewart
CHARDONNAY CELEBRATED
Nice work there Macca. Dave Semmens.
Awesome people and wine! Phoenix Cafe and Bar.
SPICING UP LUNCHTIME
Absolutely awesome food, fresh flavors & a good price. Kellie Morton.
Congratulations, very cool! SharpAs Marlborough.
CREATIVE FUTURE FOR TOWN CENTRE?
Fix having to pay for parking in town is probably a really good start to encouraging people to actually want to spend some time in the town centre! Rachael Doherty.
Why is Picton thriving? Diversity in it’s shops, good prices, vibrant street cafes & bars, majority of shops open weekends when most people aren’t
working, great atmosphere. Michelle Herkt Simpson.
We moved to Blenheim a year ago and own a craft supply business. The cost of reopening a physical store is crippling for a small business, so we have gone online. That still has its challenges as we have to compete with other online stores and Temu. Sadly supporting local seems to be a thing of the past - the dollar rules for many people, price over quality.
Jolanda Wells Nugteren-Biersteker.
We’ve talked about this long before Westwood arrived. It shows majority of our region shop and support large chain stores due to ease and pricing . Yet we have seen small independent shops open up and thriving as well as the new Experience Marlborough Wine & Food Hub coming soon. The best thing town can do is revamp market street closing it off fully from BNZ to Forum and have markets, buskers, event, pop up shops, Collective/collaborative spaces such as Cotton On having a blow wave bar, drop in massages, makeup appointments somewhere people can drop in and get ready quickly. Another collaborative business turn Bed Bath and Beyond into a Play Room like they have on the wharf in wellington. There’s sensory play, coloring, exploration, role play. You book in 1-2hr slots. Have a relaxed space for teens - like a bar but nonalcoholic - pool tables, board games, movie area and set movies are played. Not full on like an arcade but relaxed like the old youth club when it was at the WK building. Why not bring in franchise foods into that area such as moving Pita Pit or Taco Bell or Tank Juices into the inner CBD. Why not turn the old Harvey Norman into something like Brewtown in upper hut with VR Golf and beers, chipmunks for the kids, indoor mini golf. Utilize the businesses around like 5tapped and Fairweather’s to make it an eatery and activity part of town. We complain there’s nothing to do here but offer no support when people try to come up with opportunities and ideas. Hannah Lamb.
Council and landlords need to ask themselves the hard questions. Parking is plentiful and free at Westwood - and Landlord have set rent so high that small businesses simply can’t afford to operate there. Jo Mason.
The town’s been dying for years and the parking is crap around the town. I think it’s great business moving out to Westwood. It’s like blenheim,s equivalent to a mall. All they need now is a pub in the middle for the guys to go to when the women are shopping. Dave Martin.
STREET TALK Proudly brought to you by
TO ALL WINNERS
Summit recently celebrated its 33rd Annual Awards, marking another year of market share growth, company expansion, and individual success. We continue to sell and manage more properties than any other agency in the Top of the South. Thank you to our entire team - this achievement is a true testament to your dedication and hard work!
We ended the financial year on a high note, with twelve of our team members achieving Champion Status꞉ Glyn Delany (Number 1 Salesperson for the 7th consecutive year), Emma McCashin, Callum Gilchrist, Bruce Batty, Michelle Westrupp, Dwayne Lohmann, Paul Nicoll, Mark
Troy, Liam Boshoff, Tracy Beer, Ben Nalder, and Vicki Weetman. Congratulations to Vicki Weetman, whose continued energy and positivity earned her the Excellence in Real Estate award, and to Ryan Horncastle, who received the coveted Rookie of the Year award for his excellent sales results.
Our Property Management team continues to set the standard in the region with several new innovations introduced over the past 12 months. Congratulations to our top performers꞉ Avei Douglas and Sarah Crawford. We also recognised the loyalty and long-standing commitment of several team members꞉ Samantha Buys, Viv Smith, Michael Fox, and Bevan Dixon. A long-service acknowledgment was presented to Val Cooper—thank you for your contribution, Val. Congratulations to our Richmond Office, who once again took out the title of Top Office for Sales and Property Management—a great achievement
and well-deserved recognition for the whole team. Last year, we celebrated a major milestone—20 years and 1,000 editions of the Summit Weekly, which remains a powerful tool for connecting people with real estate opportunities.
This success is made possible by the strength of our team, our full-service approach, our far-reaching marketing—and most importantly, by you. To every client who has trusted us to sell, manage, buy, or rent—thank you. Your continued support keeps Summit at the forefront of the market, and we’re truly grateful you chose us.
MICHELLE
Horncastle Nelson
Glyn Delany –
Vicki Weetman ‑ Picton
Avei Douglas & Sarah Crawford
Bringing home the bacon with a toe-tapping throwback
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Classic costumes, toe-tapping live tunes and the depth of artistic talent Marlborough possesses in spades will be on display for the next 10 days.
Familiar drums, then bass, then the electric guitar of Footloose’s title track sets the scene as we’re less-than-warmly welcomed to Bomont and the McCormick family, the lights dropping for two hours of flair and fun interspersed by dramatic depth and emotional messaging for theatre-goers to take home with them. We jump around Bomont, from the high school and the church to sitting just above the tunnel for the only train out of town, just as we jump from breathless boogies to emotional ballads across an incredibly-talented and well-rounded cast.
Obviously, everybody does get footloose, with James Dight’s Ren McCormick claiming the crowd from the outset and setting the tone with his individual performances, leading into rehearsed group numbers and intricate full cast choreography from all the cast as the residents of Bomont reclaim their dancing shoes.
James’s Ren played brilliantly off his side characters, whether it is doting mother Ethel, played by Nadia Campbell, or Lyriks Caldwell’s Willard, whose character grew in confidence and built a charming second storyline couple dynamic with Carolie Andrew’s heartwarming rendition of Rusty.
The entire Moore family of Claudia Mark’s Ariel, Spencer Kingi’s Reverend Shaw and Anne Vowter’s Vi are brilliantly sympathetic characters throughout, asking the
audience to reflect on reactions to loss on relationships and the desire of a parent for their children, which makes the eventual emotional redemption of the Reverend even more powerful. While causing plenty of trouble for both Ren in the form of the mean Mannie Tai as Chuck Cranston and performing many
fun numbers alongside her girlfriends, aptly played by Ainsley Bell and Nadia Zintl throughout, Claudia makes Ariel a real emotional crutch of the show. This production of Footloose is a timely reminder that we shouldn’t close our minds to creativity, a community is stronger when it’s connected, and that a sing and a
dance will make you feel better. The light shuffling and coughs from backstage and the twang of final instrument tuning from the orchestra pit was obvious in a mostly-empty ASB Theatre at rehearsal time, but that won’t be heard over the applause of full audiences, which the Blenheim Musical Theatre actors and accompanying musicians deserve after their efforts in putting on such a polished performance.
Director Liz McKay said, “I think we’re ready”, as the Sunday sneak peek drew to a close. I hope the audiences are just as ready for a fantastic show.
Blenheim Musical Theatre presents Footloose: The Musical at the ASB Theatre from May 14 to 24.
Weekdays - 7.30 PM
Saturday 17 May - 2PM & 7.30PM
Sunday 18 May - 2PM
Saturday 24 May - 4PM
NMIT celebrates scholarships for Marlborough students
The Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology has celebrated the achievements of outstanding students and the generosity of local donors, awarding over $47,000 in scholarships to support learners in viticulture, aviation engineering, and nursing.
The 2025 NMIT Marlborough Scholarship presentation ceremony at the Marlborough Research Centre, brought together students, whānau, donors, and community leaders in a vibrant show of support for education in the region.
They are from left; Oliver Carville, Lisa Schubert, Tara Falvey, Ilah Beattie, Mason Jennings, Romilly Burgess and Charlotte Cooper. Photo: Supplied.
Executive Director of NMIT, Olivia Hall, says the students’ success has been made possible “not just by their hard work, but by the incredible support of our partners”.
“These scholarships represent more than financial support — they are an expression of belief in our learners and an investment in the future of our industries and
region.”
The event recognised several significant contributions: Oliver Carville, a third-year Bachelor of Viticulture and Winemaking student, received an internship scholarship from the Marlborough Research Centre to support his capstone research project, conducted in collaboration with Plant and Food Research and the Bragato Research Institute.
The New Zealand Aviation Federation awarded three Aviation Engineering Scholarships to Mason Jennings, Romilly Sturgess, and Charlotte Cooper, all enrolled in
the NZ Certificate in Aeronautical Engineering (Level 4).
The Zonta Club of Marlborough presented two scholarships, supporting Tara Falvey (Bachelor of Nursing, Year 2) and Lisa Schubert (Bachelor of Viticulture and Winemaking), with a focus on empowering women and those returning to the workforce.
The Churchill Private Hospital Trust awarded a nursing scholarship to first-year Bachelor of Nursing student Ilah Beattie, reinforcing the importance of growing the local healthcare workforce.
Recipients at the NMIT scholarship presentation.
Claudia Mark, Ainsley Bell, Carolie Andrew and Nadia Zintl as Ariel, Urleen, Rusty and Wendy Jo at the Footloose dress rehearsal on Sunday. Photo: Supplied/Blenheim Musical Theatre.
Projects that shape Marlborough
Deedee
Pink Shirt Day
Pink Shirt Day
FRIDAY 16TH MAY, 2025
At MGC we are more than just a school - we are a whānau. A place where every student is supported, encouraged and inspired to grow, learn and lead with confidence. For all enquires please email office@mgc.school.nz or phone 03 520 8448
MARLBOROUGH GIRLS’ COLLEGE
Te Kāreti Kōhine o Wairau
“Ma te kahukura ka rere te manu, Adorn the bird with feathers so it may fly”
Rangers at the double
PETER JONES
Rangers AFC came through a stern test of their fitness levels and resilience with flying colours at the weekend.
On Saturday they travelled over the hill to Nelson, taking on Richmond Athletic in a Nelson division one clash, then, on Sunday, they hosted another Nelson side, Wakefield FC, in a round two Chatham Cup fixture at A&P Park. They won both fixtures, downing Richmond 4-0 and easing past Wakefield 7-1. The Blenheim-based side were below full strength, with Guy Nolan, Bjorn Waechter, Jono Masters and Boyd Elvy ruled out of both games. Longtime defender Aaron Hayes was called up with Shiv Chandra taking a place on the bench.
Rangers applied the early pressure, creating multiple scoring opportunities, only to be denied by the hard-working Richmond defence and keeper.
The deadlock was broken after 30 minutes, Keagan Mortimer quicker to the ball then the keeper, then five minutes later Jack Morris made it 2-0, finishing a nice combination with Sverre Waechter. Rangers tried to put the game to bed early in the second half but were forced to wait until the 75-minute mark for their third. Mortimer latched on to another through ball, rounding the last defender before slotting home from an acute angle. In the 85th minute Rangers were awarded a free kick 30m from goal, Marcelo Gonzales putting a pinpoint cross to the far post where Tore Waechter headed in.
Sverre Waechter won the man of the match award ahead of the hard-working Gonzales brothers (Marcelo and Pablo) Tore Waechter, Hayes, Morris, Kane Elvy and Elijah O’Donnell. Sunday’s match posed a different set of
problems.
Although Wakefield were a Nelson division two side, they had tipped over Richmond in the preliminary cup round and were not to be taken lightly. Although Rangers made a strong start, lively winger Kane Elvy scoring their first after 10 minutes, Wakefield replied soon after through a clever back heel from Emilio Antunez, putting the local side and their supporters on notice that sloppy defence would be punished. However, this setback seemed to galvanise Rangers and by halftime they had added five more goals, including a wellstruck penalty kick by Gonzalez to take firm control.
Elvy got his third and Rangers’ seventh soon after oranges, prompting their management to ring the changes, eventually introducing all five substitutes. Consequently, the match lost some shape and although Rangers were by far the dominant outfit, their decisive passes were often more hopeful than precise. The whole Rangers crew put
in a big shift. Morris worked tirelessly, Marcelo Gonzalez ruled midfield, Jordy Columbus was his usual composed self at the back, alongside Callum McDonald, while Mortimer and Pearson chased hard up front.
Player/coach Tore Waechter said his side were well up for the challenge of two games in succession. “We were definitely looking forward to it .. it doesn’t get too much better than that, playing two games of footy in the weekend. We thought we could get the job done and we did.”
In the Marlborough division one competition, Central Buccaneers downed Rangers Reserves 2-1 while Trojans Los Andes beat Rangers Colts 6-0, Tomas Lupani scoring four goals.
In division two, Rangers City drew 1-1 with Renwick, Trojans Spartans downed Rangers Masters 4-2, BV Masters overcame Trojans Angels 7-3, Central Wolves eased past Trojans Strikers 4-1 while Picton Crow Tavern beat Central Privateers 4-0.
Netball front runners stretch legs
Two blow-out scores marked round two of the Marlborough premier netball competition last week. With a couple of the competition favourites coming up against lower-ranked sides the scorelines were expected to be wide apart and so it proved.
confidence from, especially when they manage to get their full roster out on court.
Jah’Bree MacDonald, Tilly Tupouto’a and Anna Hurren were the standouts for College.
In the evening’s first match, reigning champs Pelorus took on a relatively inexperienced Marlborough Girls’ College side, who struggled for cohesion on week one. The Dark Blues showed no mercy to the students, breezing through the first two quarters to establish a 39-11 lead at the halfway point. With Pelorus making a raft of changes at the break, MGC slowly regained their confidence in both attack and defence, holding their slick rivals to a 12-9 third stanza.
However, just when it seemed the students were making ground and would finish with a confidence boost, they struggled throughout the final quarter, being una-
ble to register a single goal as Pelorus, with defenders Oriana Houra, Izzy Tupouto’a and Brittney Lyons leading the way, upped the ante. Despite the final scoreline of 68-20 there were enough aspects of MGC’s play to draw
The other competition match was a Harlequins derby, Totalspan romping to an 80-9 victory over their Grove Tavern stablemates. The more experienced Quins side dominated from the outset, with players new to the team this season, such as Jorja Bacchus, Zara Jopson, Aleisha Smith, Mickayla Avant and Delyth James-Sitters, beginning to find their feet and forge new, effective combinations. The evening’s final match was between Tokomaru and the Marlborough Men’s combination, ending 47-42 to the men after a see-sawing encounter.
Marcelo Gonzales puts in a pass despite pressure from the Wakefield defence.
Photo: Peter Jones.
PETER JONES
Harlequins’ Grove Tavern middie Hayley Jopson reaches for an interception. Photo Peter Jones
Central claim prized trophy
PETER JONES
Central got their Tasman Trophy premier rugby campaign back on track over the hill on Saturday - and picked up a prized trophy along the way.
The Blues blitzed past Nelson 43-24 at Trafalgar Park and claimed the prestigious John Goodman Challenge Trophy. Nelson had taken the trophy from Marist last weekend but were not able to hold onto it against a Central side intent on making amends for a below-par previous showing against Waimea Old Boys. In other results, Marist romped past Kahurangi 4310 while Waimea Old Boys downed Stoke 40-31.
Moutere, the only Marlborough side in the women’s Tasman Trophy race, played
at their Awarua Park home during the Magpies’ club day and came up just short against Waimea Old Boys women, losing 40-27. The match see-sawed, with Moutere closing to within one point in the latter stages, only for their rivals to score two late tries and inflate the scoreline.
In the other match, Kahurangi demolished Marist 65-10. Three matches were played in the senior A competition. Awatere travelled to Spring Creek and opened their account after having a first round bye with a 37-12 win over Moutere on the number two ground, the Tussocks hav-
ing led 17-7 at the break. In Havelock, the home side Pelorus went down 22-10 to Harlequins while Renwick, the defending champs, got back on track with a 25-15 win over Central in Renwick.
The Marlborough Boys’ College First XV travelled to Rangiora and came away with an impressive 48-3 win over Rangiora High School, a side they had already beaten in pre-season play.
Other first round Miles Toyota Premiership winners were Nelson College, St Thomas of Canterbury, Christchurch Boys’ High School and St Bede’s.
MBC’s next competition match is against Shirley BHS on the MBC front field on Friday, part of the annual exchange. Kick-off is noon.
An enduring quality …
Horseback endurance combinations from across New Zealand, and even a couple from Australia, gathered in Marlborough for the Radincon ESNZ Endurance & CTR National Championships 2025. This year’s unique 100 percent vineyard ride, set against the stunning backdrop of autumn vineyards, provided the perfect setting for competitors to showcase their skill, stamina, and partnership with their horses. Sunny, mild weather created ideal riding conditions. There were three 160km classes - the Senior, the Young Rider and the Junior. The pinnacle event was the Radincon Senior 160km Championship which was contested on Anzac Day - 17 horse and rider combinations tackling a five-loop course (40km, 40km, 30km, 30km and 20km). Coming home first in the exceptional time of eight hours 52 minutes 27 seconds, was Ashley Cole and Tonki Dee Boo Novak, from the Coromandel, who narrowly edged out their competition after a closely-fought gallop finish. Second was Tosca Bell on Arahi Penny, from the Waikato, who finished a fraction of a second later in 8:52:29. This duo went on to claim the B est Conditioned Horse award. Finishing third was Jorja James, from Mid Canterbury, riding Glendaar Windsong, who completed in just over nine hours.
Top table tennis on show
With 80 players taking part and 330 matches being played over two day there was no time for relaxation for the organisers of the 2025 Marlborough Open table tennis champs.
The Harcourts men’s singles title was won by Manawatu’s top-seeded Matt Ball who showed what top class table tennis is all about, from touch play, backhand topspins and blistering forehand drives.
He played Canterbury’s Griffin Buchanan in the final, winning 11-9, 11-8, 7-11, 11-9, 7-11, 11-6 in a feast of attacking table tennis. Auckland youngster Lucas Alexandre took third place with a straight-sets win over Canterbury junior Canyon Richens.
There were 12 qualifiers for post section play, five from Canterbury, three from Nelson and one each from Manawatu, North
Shore, Auckland and Japan.
Canterbury’s Monica Kusaleswaran won the Forrest Wines women’s singles, beating local player Jacqui Wood in straight sets in the final. Monica, who reached the semi final of the South Island women’s singles in April, reached the final with a win over Canterbury’s Kris Alisch, while Jacqui just got home in a close seven-set match against Nelson’s Anna King, in the other semi. Kris took third place over Anna.
Four of the eight qualifiers came from Nelson, three from Canterbury and one from Marlborough. Matt won his second title when he combined with Nelson’s Joshua Pigott for a win in the men’s doubles final over Griffin and Canyon. Monica and Kris beat Anna and Ana Vasquez Ramirez in the women’s doubles decider.
The mixed doubles final was an all-Nelson affair with Daniel As-
tle and Ana beating Anna and Dimitri Bell.
In the Speedy Signs and Embroidery C grade Marlborough players stood out. Caitlin Exton played very well to beat Nelson’s Irina Bell in the semi-final of the women’s singles before losing the final to Canterbury’s Elena Maiu-
olo in five sets.
The C grade men’s final saw Nelson’s Montek Singh beat Canterbury’s Hayden Petch in five. Locals Oliver Phipps and Harry Speakman reached the quarter finals.
Tournament manager Nathan Cross was a busy man over the
weekend but played in the doubles and brought the men’s doubles title to Marlborough when he combined with Oliver for a win over the Nelson pairing of Paul Op den Buysch and Glenn Thorn.
Lucy Thom won the women’s doubles in partnership with Canterbury’s Renata Jelli over Elena and Nelson’s Nikki Waterman. Silver medals in the mixed went to Oliver Phipps and Caitlin, with gold going to Elena and Canterbury’s Josh Giller.
The Kennedy Connections Over40 section saw two titles come to Marlborough, Jacqui Wood was first in the Over-40 women’s singles, while in the open doubles final, Matt Millar and Jason Kennedy beat Jacqui and Marlborough’s Ken Thompsett.
Marlborough’s Supreya Prasertsakda was undefeated in the round-robin competition to win the women’s over-55 singles.
PETER JONES
Marlborough’s Jacqui Wood was runner-up in the open women’s singles. Photo Peter Jones.
Left: Moutere women’s winger Rebecca Stuart dives over for an early try during her side’s Tasman Trophy clash at Awarua Park on Saturday. Photo Peter Jones. Right: Central celebrate winning the John Goodman Challenge Trophy at Trafalgar Park in Nelson on Saturday. Photo: Supplied.
Tosca Bell, riding Arahi Penny, and senior 160km winner Ashley Cole, riding Tonki Dee Boo Novak, closest to camera. Photo Sarah Hamer.
Moutere number 8 Petelo Luka charges through the Awatere defence at Spring Creek on Saturday. Photo: Peter Jones.
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DEATH NOTICES
HESKETH: Pauline Marie
Born in Taihape, 27 June 1928 and passed away peacefully at Bethsaida Retirement Village, Blenheim, 8 April 2025. Wife of the late John Broughton Hesketh, loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. “Forever loved.”
The family wish to thank Bethsaida staff for their loving care. Messages to Hesketh family c/- PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A private cremation has taken place and a memorial service for Pauline will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street Blenheim on Saturday 17 May 2025 at 2.00pm.
ROBINSON: Dennis
Passed away peacefully at Hospice Marlborough on Wednesday 7 May 2025, after losing his battle with cancer at the age of 84. Dearly loved husband of Christine. Loving and devoted father and father-in-law of Todd and Niki (Virginia USA) and stepfather of Kym and James (Wellington) and Kylie and Shay (Tel Aviv, Israel). Proud Grandad Dennis to all the six grandchildren. Loved brother-in-law to the late Karen and Terry, uncle and respected friend to many. Messages to 19 Solway Drive Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz.
A special thank you for the care and kindness shown by the staff at Hospice Marlborough and donations can be made to their account (03 1369 0365207 00 Ref: Robinson) or at the service. A celebration of Dennis’s life will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street on Saturday 17 May at 10.30am followed by private cremation. The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
“The saddest moment is when the person that gave you the best memories, becomes a memory.”
VALK: Ngaire Beryl (nee Thomson)
It is with great sadness, we announce the sudden passing of Ngaire, on Monday 5th May 2025. Aged 71 years. Dearly loved partner of Murray Bishell. Loved Wife of Graham (dec). Loved Mother, Mother-in-Law and Nana of Jeffrey, Frith, George, Edward and James; Matthew, Anna, Anais, Louis; Sarah, Darren and Emma Clifford. Loved Nana Ngaire to Scott, Rachel & Alex; Simon, Sara, Lauchlan and Cameron Bishell. Special Sister, Sister-in-Law and Aunt. A Special ‘Thank You’ to the kind and caring staff at Wellington Hospital ICU, and Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter. Messages to 487 Middle Renwick Road, RD1, Blenheim 7271 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. In lieu of flowers a donation to Marlborough Hospice Trust (Account No. 03 1369 0365207 00) or Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust (Account No. 03 1354 0462100 00) Ref. Valk would be appreciated or may be made at the service. A celebration of Ngaire’s life has been held. The service was live streamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
HUDDLESTON, Eric Trevor
Loved and loving husband and mate of Joan for 52 years. Passed after a short illness, aged 86 years. Loved father and father-in-law of Antony and Rowena, and Susan. Loved Poppa of Sophie, Anna and Caleb. Messages for the family may be sent to C/- Huddleston Family, PO Box 110, Blenheim 7240. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Marlborough Hospice would be greatly appreciated, donations can be made at the service. A service for Eric will be held in the Sowmans Mayfield Chapel, cnr of Hutcheson and Parker Sts on Wednesday 14th May (today) at 11.00am, followed by private cremation.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Gary, Cheryl and families would like to thank all for the help and support after Sue’s sudden death. Special thanks to the St John and Police staff who attended.
BURDON Sue: (née Pitt)
Exceptional Comfort & Lifestyle
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