Fallen heroes’ crosses stand to attention
Crosses honouring Marlborough’s fallen war heroes are put into regimented rows each year for Anzac Day, just as they would have been in formation in life.
The White Cross Project’s inception was in 2014 for the centenary of World War 1 and saw 250 crosses set up for four years of displays around Anzac Day on the banks of the Taylor River.
Facilitator Ron Shoemark says since starting with the 250 crosses made by the local woodworkers’ guild, the Marlborough District Council wanted to see the project continue with crosses around the region, with additions being made to this day.
“When we put the crosses out, I remind the team that we’re looking after the memories of all of these local boys, and they would have wanted to be nice and tidy while on display.
“We maintain the crosses, storing them at the Air Force base and ensuring they are clean and correctly labelled each year.
“Each cross has their numbers, names and other details, but we had one that only had the nick-
name “Hemi” on it until one day his grandson came in and gave us all of his proper war details
“Our most recent addition has come from two and a half years ago, after Corporal Dominic Abelen went on unpaid leave to fight and unfortunately die fighting for Ukraine.
“His family asked the RSA to be added, and we were able to invite his family down to introduce his cross to his fellow Marlborough soldiers.”
Retired New Zealand Army Captain and Marlborough District Councillor Barbara Faulls looks out on the crosses this time each year, and says she is “buoyed by the resurgence of interest in An-
zac Day and the willingness of young people to honour those who have passed in service.
“I am the daughter of a WWII veteran and Anzac Day was one of the few days that Dad ever took off from farming - my earliest memories are of my father polishing his medals (which I was allowed to do when I got older) and making sure that his suit was pressed and ready for the parade.
“Anzac Day was always a special family day as we would choose somewhere for a picnic and the cows would get milked a little later, but Mum and Dad always made sure that we knew about the significance, the history and
the horror that was war.
“Dad did not glorify it, and we knew that he had lost many friends and comrades, and the crosses in the square are a stark reminder of those who have been lost from the Marlborough region.
“Veterans tend to be very reticent about talking about their service, but in the safety of a RSA or marae, they often open up and memories come pouring out.
“My two favourite places to attend an Anzac service would have to be high on the hill behind Portage and near the beach at French Pass, as it is heartbreaking to see all the names of those who went away to war, rowing out to the troop ships imagining that they were off to see the world and that they’d be home ‘in a jiffy’.
“So many of those young men never returned to the Sounds and their loss devastated not only their families but also the small Sounds farming communities. These two memorial sites are hugely poignant spots.
“Overall, we cannot forget, we must honour them and we must remember and do all that we can to not make the mistakes of the past.”
Anzac Day around the region
Standing with the Marlborough community since 1869
Ron Shoemark has been attending to the Anzac Day crosses since 2014. Photo: William Woodworth.
Anzac Day services were held across Marlborough on Friday, with attendances growing as young and old gathered to honour those who had served their country, some making the ultimate sacrifice.
Above left: Veterans march past the Seymour Square clock tower during the central Blenheim midday service. Photo: Peter Jones.
Above centre: The 28th Maori Battalion were recognised at Picton’s Dawn Service. Photo: William Woodworth
Above right: The younger brigade take centre stage at the Seddon service. Photo: Summa Bruning.
Capturing the South’s most sunshine
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
A formerly unproductive vineyard just south of Blenheim will become the South Island’s largest solar farm when it is plugged in to the grid.
The Rānui Solar Farm, currently under construction, has six hectares of solar panel surface set to generate up to 12.6kWh - 20 percent of Blenheim’s daytime power needs and more power than both the Branch and Waihopai dams combined output. The former vineyard was purchased with the repurpose in mind by Rick Osborne, while the custom solar panel design was put together by Wayne Stronach and built by specialised solar contractors K&T Construction.
Rick says the project has been in process since he purchased the property three and a half years ago. “We bit the bullet to get the vines out and get ahead on the solar game once consent was granted, which it was last September,” says Rick.
“This vineyard was not productive with mostly aging vines and prone to flooding, so with raised solar generation and grazing livestock we’re finding a more productive purpose.
“Marlborough is just gold when
it comes to solar potential, obviously shown with our sunshine hours every year, and Lady Luck has been with us for this construction so far with the weather.”
Wayne Stronach’s 30 years of power supply experience meant he quickly saw the site’s solar potential when given the design tasks.
Wayne says while solar may be expensive up front, it produc-
es the lowest cost per kilowatt hour - made even cheaper and easier due to onsite power connections. “This site has 33kV powerlines running across the site which means there’s less costs involved in building transmission lines to mains so we can just have three power inverters on site and plug straight in to the grid,” he says. “We wanted the panels to fit into the environment for sure, and
I think it adds some character and impact on our claim to the sunshine capital title having the farm just out of town too.”
Wayne’s design saw 20,608 TrinaSolar power-generating panels set in place on 10,762 piles buried 2.5 metres deep, sturdy enough to withstand earthquakes, low enough to not be intrusive for views and minimising any possible mechanical issues.
MAX FRETHEY, LOCAL DEMOCRACY REPORTER
Speeds of 100kmh are returning to SH6 between Blenheim and Nelson, creating conflicting views on the validity of the increases.
The changes are the result of the Coalition Government’s updated speed limit rule that aimed to reverse the reductions which took place during the previous Labour administration.
Nelson MP Rachel Boyack slammed the decision, saying that a speed limit increase would result in more car crashes. “If [the government] want to make choices based on public opinion rather than evidence and science and safety for people, that is on them.”
Rai Valley fire chief Nigel Patterson is undecided as to whether he disagreed with the speed limit changes or not.
“I hear rumours that a lot more people are impatient because the speed limit’s down. But then if you take the speed limit up, are we going to have more crashes? I don’t know.”
Jax Smith, managing director of general freight for Renwick Transport was “really pleased” by the changes. The trucking company makes about 50–60 round trips to Nelson and back a week. “It’s huge for us. By drivers being able to consistently drive... we think that is going to save us time and money.”
Wayne Stronach, Gabriel Doerstel and Rick Osborne with one of the newly-installed solar installations near Riverlands, south of Blenheim. Photo: William Woodworth.
Playhouse positivity
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
A competitive building competition has resulted in Marlborough’s only Māori immersion preschool getting a new DIY-themed playhouse.
As part of week four for their NZ RenoTok challenge, Blenheim’s Team Crankiepants, comprising Chris Anker and Nicole Taylor, were challenged to the task at Te Kohanga Reo o Nga Puawai.
After being given the week’s challenge by Kindness Collective, the builders got to work and ‘Te Whare Auaha’, or ‘The House of Creativity’, was opened for its first play session on Wednesday morning.
“All of the kids and teachers have been
super excited and surprised as they’ve seen it being built”, says Te Kohanga Reo o Nga Puawai’s Angie Bird.
“Having the team put it together, but also with our own help in putting our own designs and giving it a proper name for the purpose of tamariki to play, create and imagine is perfect.
“Everything here comes from fundraising and community effort and the Kohanga Reo disparities between mainstream early childhood care has only had a few years since pay disparity has been evened out, so this gift will really be treasured.”
The playhouse building came together in four days after Chris and Nicole wrangled in the help of neighbour and Marlborough Boys’ College stu-
dent Logan Flight for the project over the school holiday week, as well as Mitre 10 ambassador Stan Scott.
The final day of decorating Te Whare Auaha involved the helping hands of Kohanga Reo staff, and ‘master painters’ Chloe and Clara.
Logan says it was a “very cool” project to be involved in.
“I hope they have lots of fun in it because when I was little, I was one of the ones playing with all of the construction toys,” he says.
Stan says there was a little more “aroha and mana” put into the project, knowing where it was going.
“Considering it’s been two days of building, and one day of dressing, it’s a fantastic little playhouse.”
A Bennett’s wallaby was found dead on State Highway 6 between Blenheim and Riverlands on Saturday, two kilometers south of central Blenheim.
“The sighting has been investigated by the Marlborough District Council, and it is believed that the dead wallaby has come from further south and been dumped”, commented Biosecurity New Zealand Jacquiline Neave.
“While it is unusual to see wallabies outside of the areas where they are known to be, such as in the Rotorua Lakes and South Canterbury-North Otago areas, we can confirm that in the last few days, the Tipu Mātoro National Wallaby Eradication Programme has received a report of a dead wallaby sighting in Marlborough.”
The South Island’s population of Bennett’s wallabies were released near Timaru in the 1870s.
In 2016, another dead wallaby was found on State Highway 63, near St Arnaud in the upper Wairau Valley. There have been several live reported wallaby
sightings in Marlborough in recent years including in Picton, Rai Valley, Ngākuta Bay and Te Hoiere/ Pelorus Sound – but with no live animals found.
“The programme has received a few reports of potential wallaby sightings from the Marlborough area over the years but in each case, follow up by the Marlborough District Council, with Tipu Mātoro’s support, has found no evidence of the pest in the region”.
“[However], we ask anyone who sees a wallaby in the wild – dead or alive –to report it to www.report wallabies.nz.”
12–16
Get a taste of study and student life with interactive workshops tailored for individuals aged year 11 and above.
Te Kohanga Reo o Nga Puawai students and staff have a brand-new building-themed playhouse thanks to #NZRenoTok’s Team Crankiepants, Kindness Collective and a few helping hands. Photo: William Woodworth.
The Bennett’s wallaby, apparently dumped, found just south of Blenheim. Photo: Marlborough Cool Cat Chat/ Grant McMorland.
Dining with the stars
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
New faces will be popping up on the walls of Oxley’s Bar and Kitchen thanks to a rotating series of starsign inspired watercolour portraits.
Waikawa painter Caroline Della Porta’s new series of portraits, “The 12”, will be rotated through the seven spots available on the walls of Oxley’s Picton restaurant.
Caroline says that the portraits are not of anyone, but an expression of her fascination with people’s portraits on magazine covers.
“I’m always either looking for projects to do or making up my own because I get bored otherwise. I’m fascinated with portraiture because people relate to faces, which is why we see them on magazine covers, with big hair and expressive colours.
“After completing about five of them, I wanted to build about the story behind them and decided to create a series based on astrological signs. Each piece now has a star sign, personality and name representing different ethnicities.”
Caroline started with Gloria – who has a pink afro and represents Virgo – and painted the pieces over a short period with iconic hairstyles and her backlog of references to become unique personalities.
The quick-drying watercolours meant Caroline aimed for expressive, spontaneous groundwork for
each portrait, while later adding finer details and metallic flecks.
“I enjoy big brush strokes, but also getting into the details, and I think the process using watercolour paper and ink gives a lovely grain to the faces.”
Caroline hopes the pieces become a permanent fixture at Oxley’s.
“The setting is perfect, making the space feel full of people when it’s full or when it isn’t, and the staff really like them too.”
Oxley’s manager Amy Cragg says she loved the concept from the start and is incredibly impressed by the finished additions. “They make Oxley’s feel full of people and characters more than it already is and give the restaurant a warm feeling.”
Growing momentum for community garden
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
The positive spirit around Picton’s new community garden project was palpable at its first official working bee on Thursday.
The new initiative, based on Huia St Reserve in Waikawa, aims to create a food forest and garden that will serve as a hub for local families, providing fresh produce and educational opportunities.
The project has already garnered significant support from the Council, Waste Management New Zealand and Clarke’s Drainage and Development to deliver mulch, as well as Thursday’s dedication from volunteers engaging in weeding, ripping up cardboard, and preparing the ground for planting.
“Even before our first official working bee, people were super keen to come and help, so it’s really exciting to kick
off with this event and have community members come and help out during the school holidays”, said Community Garden project manager Amy Healey.
“Many people here today just wanted to spend their time helping out, chatting with others, and connecting with like-minded individuals - they were happy to do some weeding, rip up cardboard, and just be part of something for the community.”
The project also includes plans for an educational space, complete with potting sheds, tool sheds and a big tree in the middle.
Garden designer Christo Saggers from Collaborative Design Studio emphasized the importance of community involvement, both now and into the future
“It’s always good to put the spade in the ground and make
progress - the design is done, but it’s a concept that can be modified as things go as we get more contributions.”
“This space will produce a bit of food for families, educate people, and raise awareness of what they can do - everything will have a purpose.”
And as the weather gets colder, Amy says that there will be plenty of opportunities over winter for people to contribute in their own little way.
“Signs Now has been instrumental in creating signage for the garden - we’re just waiting for the ink to dry today, and then we can update people walking past on how they can get involved and provide progress updates.”
“We’ve also just had great conversations with passers-by who are keen to be involved, so if everyone does their little bit to help over winter, we’ll be in a great position come spring.”
Caroline Della Porta holding ‘Tove’, with ‘Astrid’ and ‘Noor’ behind. Photo: William Woodworth.
Envirohub Marlborough’s Amy Healey, Collaborate Design Studio’s Christo Saggers and Philip Sim. Photo: William Woodworth.
NEWS
Drought assistance continues: The government is extending Rural Assistance Payments to farmers affected by drought in the North Island and upper South Island. In a statement, Rural Communities
Minister Mark Patterson and Social Development Minister Louise Upston encouraged farmers in affected areas to talk to their rural support trust to find out what help is available. Eligible farmers would have the farm as their main source of income and be find-
ing it difficult to meet essential living costs due to the drought. The payment amounts are equivalent to the jobseeker benefit and can be lowered depending on earnings and any money or off-farm assets. They will be available from Monday, 28 April to 28 October, in Marlborough District Council, Nelson City Council and Tasman District Council.
“We want to help eligible farmers whose income has been severely affected by drought-stricken conditions,” Louise says. “Droughts often have a sting in the tail with the cold tough winter months still to come. We know how hard it can be to recover from a drought, and we are here
to support farmers through it,” Mark concludes.
Explosion of flavour: After spending the past seven years catering around the region, Boom Chef has announced they will be having a permanent shop and lunch bar premises on Scott Street, opening on next Tuesday
Fire restrictions loosen: Fire and Emergency New Zealand changed the restrictions for outdoor fires throughout Marlborough at 8am on Thursday April 24, until further notice.
The Marlborough South area has moved
from a prohibited to a restricted fire season, which means all outdoor fires need a permit approved by Fire and Emergency New Zealand.
The Marlborough North area will move from a restricted fire season to an open fire season, which means people can light outdoor fires without an approved permit. All Department of Conservation land in Marlborough remains in a restricted fire season.
Nelson Marlborough Group Manager Chris Hayles says recent rainfall has lowered the fire danger in both areas, although the southern area is still drier after a hot summer.
Eleven-year-old wins Marlborough music prize
Eleven-year-old Felix Huang is this year’s winner of the Queen Elizabeth II Music Award.
One of the youngest recipients of the award, Felix was nominated by his music teacher, Linda Lloyd, for his amazing skills on piano and violin.
At yesterday’s ceremony at Council Chambers, Mayor Nadine Taylor said Felix’s achievements at such a young age were quite extraordinary and it was clear he had a musical future ahead.
“You are obviously really talented but also work very, very hard to achieve excellent results,” she said.
Mayor Taylor listed Felix’s recent
successes which include passing his Grade 8 in violin (ABRSM) and piano through the Trinity College of Music. He achieved distinction in both instruments in the last three months of 2024.
He also completed his Grade 7 theory at the same time.
“To put it simply, you nailed it,” she said.
The violin examiner noted his confident and well-projected performance and said technical challenges were consistently well-handled.
Felix was a dedicated and talented student who was diligent at practising and enthusiastic about his craft, Mayor Taylor said.
Breast screening bus in Marlborough this May
Wāhine in Wairau/Marlborough will soon have better access to breast screening services, with the Breast Screen South mobile clinic making its first visit to the region this May.
This means that wāhine can have their breast screening done in a local, community setting – not just at the Radiology Department at Wairau Hospital. This is a significant step towards making screening more accessible, particularly for Māori and Pasifika, says Lorraine Staunton, Kaiwhakahaere Ratonga (Service Delivery Manager), for Te Piki Oranga.
The mobile screening unit is a large, custom-built bus equipped with advanced breast screening technology. While new to Marlborough, it is successfully used in other regions, bringing vital services closer to where people live.
From May 5 to 12, the mobile unit will be based at Ūkaipō, the Rangitāne Cultural Centre, making it easy for wāhine to access this important health service.
In collaboration with Rangitāne ki Wairau, Waikawa Marae, the Māori
Talk as well as performing regularly at TEMPO on both piano and violin.
The QEII award is a regional one for musicians aged 18-or-under living in the Kaikōura and Marlborough districts. It provides financial help for recipients to continue their musical training. The award was established in 1963 following a visit to New Zealand by her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. It was set up with contributions from local bodies throughout the region and is administered by the Kaikōura and Marlborough District Councils.
Women’s Welfare League, Hawaiki Kura and the Pasifika Trust, Te Piki Oranga will host three dedicated Mana Wāhine clinics focused on supporting Māori and Pasifika wāhine to attend their screen ings. “ These clinics offer wāhine the op portunity to receive breast screening in a safe, supportive environment, with ac cess to a range of other essential health services — all in one place,” Lorraine says In addition to free mammograms, wāhine can access cervical screening and HPV self-testing, immunisations, health checks, access to rongoā Māori prac titioners plus hauora information and support.
“Wāhine who are 45 to 69, or 74, and who are due or overdue for their mammogram are encouraged to book their free appointment.
Mana Wāhine clinics at Ūkaipō:
• Thursday 8 May | 3pm – 6pm
• Friday 9 May | 9am – 4pm
• Saturday 10 May | 9am – 1pm
To book your appointment, please call or text Kaye MacDonald on 027 836 6017 or 0800 270 270
Felix Huang receives the QEII award from Marlborough Mayor Na-
Opinion
Community Comments
SH6 SPEED LIMITS TO INCREASE BETWEEN BLENHEIM AND NELSON
I found it makes not much difference to actual time. Might save 10 minutes if it’s 100km and you can’t safely do 100km between Rai Valley and Whangamoa anyway. I also trust a traffic engineer to tell me what the safe speed is rather than a politician trying to get reelected
- Garth McInnes
I travel to Nelson most weeks, and have done for the past 6 years. and the one thing I’ve noticed, apart from the lack of actual data and political stuff, is that there is way less accidents on the lower speed limits. It’s very obvious that some drivers lack the capability to navigate that drive properly. I personally have attended numerous accidents and for the sake of 10 mins extra… just saying
- Grant Douglas
Great news for truckies, now we can do 90km again, as car speedos are normally 6% out they were holding up the trucks. Fact.
- Trevor Kenyon
Hope everyone is ready to join their local volunteer fire brigades in order to help clean up after the increase in car accidents through our way
- Ruthie O’Sullivan
If there was a passing lane between Blenheim and Havelock, then 90 is ok but I do think the 80km from Rai to Nelson should stay
- Gina Wells
“... on the Blenheim to Nelson stretch of State Highway 6, the predicted death and injury reduction was 22%, but the actual reduction was 82%”
- Geoff Griggs
I also note that 50K signs still stand on the highway between Blenheim and Picton and have for a fortnight perhaps they are there to protect us from sliding off the bitumen that remains now all of the chip has disappeared. Asking for a friend
- Harry Reader
Well the lower speed limits make it safer, I think. Maybe need a tweak, but why revert back to those higher speed limits? 49% strongly opposed, but 36% strongly supported..... but is it a popularity poll that should decide a change, or road safety data?
- Hazel Monk
A TREAT TO BE HOME
Kev and I had the pleasure of meeting this amazing and adventurous couple wanting to bring people together in town like this. Wishing you all the very best and be in soon
– Brent Bee
Great family, great gelato - Emily Woods
It’s so damn good. I hope it’s a big success - Mardy Atkinson
ELEVEN-YEAR-OLD PIANO PRODIGY WINS MARLBOROUGH MUSIC PRIZE
I heard him play the piano, he was amazing! I couldn’t believe he was only 11. Just fantastic, well done
- Donee Gee
BEETLEMANIA HITS BLENHEIM
What an amazing event!! Boomtown Dubbers Marlborough knocked it outta the park – Ange n Aaryn Nicholson
MARLBOROUGH WEEKLY & STUART SMITH MP ARE PROUD TO PRESENT MARLBOROUGH’S LOCAL LEGEND CELEBRATING THE INCREDIBLE PEOPLE WHO MAKE OUR COMMUNITY SHINE.
Our region is full of inspiring individuals doing remarkable things, and we want to recognise those who go above and beyond through their mahi, volunteer efforts, and support for our people and whānau.
WE INVITE YOU TO NOMINATE SOMEONE WHO YOU BELIEVE DESERVES TO BE ACKNOWLEDGED AS
Please include the following details in your nomination:
● YOUR NAME, EMAIL AND CONTACT PHONE NUMBER
● THE NAME OF THE PERSON YOU’RE NOMINATING
● A BRIEF EXPLANATION OF WHY THEY DESERVE THIS RECOGNITION
NOMINATIONS CLOSE MIDDAY FRIDAY 23 MAY
Submit your nomination via email to hello@topsouthmedia.co.nz or drop off in person at Top South Media, 52 Scott Street, Blenheim. All entries will be reviewed by Stuart and Summa, and the winner will be featured in our next Local Legend edition on 28 May 2025.
Out & About
1.
2. S am Abel, Jeremy Hodren and Winston Cosgrove
3. R achel and Tony Greig
4. Lynda Williamson and Pam Small
5. J ohn Welch, Madison Wilson and Courtney Matich
6. B lue Luxton, Kevin Broome and Kent Luxton
7. H arsimran Singh, Marco Brook, Matthew Anderson and Hamish Lawson
8. D oug McDonald, Mike Plant and John Nicol
9. C raig Rutherford, Graeme Wiki and Dave Craod
10. A drian Barlow, Dominic Hare and Benjamin Goodwin
U heina Halaapiapi, Torvi Foster-Friend, Kyle Foster and Josh Tuluga
Anzac Day, Picton RSA
Photos: William Woodworth
SPORT
Blues march past Stoke
PETER JONES
Central ensured they stayed in the Tasman Trophy premier rugby race with an emphatic victory over Stoke at Lansdowne Park on Saturday.
The Blues were well beaten by Marist on opening weekend but have scored back-to-back home wins since.
On Saturday they prevailed 4617, seven tries to three, taking advantage of a second half breeze at their backs to pull away after leading just 17-12 at the break.
Fielding a reshuffled pack, Central initially struggled for cohesion and set piece efficiency.
They scored the first try after five minutes, a typical lineout drive touchdown from player/coach Quentin MacDonald, but Stoke, who had only three players on their bench, all of them backs, replied soon after.
Midway through the half, No 8 Jesse MacDonald, playing his
first match of the season, scored the Blues’ second but again Stoke replied quickly, levelling up at 1212 after 24 minutes.
A third touchdown, to impressive winger Eric Lawson, gave the home side a narrow edge after a half in which they played a lot of unstructured rugby, often for no reward.
Three minutes into the second 40 they increased their lead, replacement winger Cody Weir scooting over after impressive build-up work.
Again, Stoke replied, scoring their third to replacement Finn Nalder, before Central finally took control of proceedings.
Replacement midfielder Nigel Satherley, also playing his first game of the year, made an immediate impression, carving through multiple tackles in the 22 to score with a wide smile on his face.
Another Quentin MacDonald specialty followed before first
five Leo Marfell charged down a clearing kick to add the icing to the cake, his handy conversion and a last-minute long-distance penalty completing a 16-point personal haul.
Although they had some fine moments, there is still plenty for Central to improve on if they are
to go all the way this season.
Players to stand out in the backline included powerful midfielders Ben Filipo and Satherley, elusive winger Senetenari Ponesi, Lawson, halfback Logan Philip and playmaker Marfell.
The MacDonald brothers were their usual impactful selves, Matt
McCormick was effective in the physical exchanges, Quinn Harrison-Jones carried hard, as did lock Sam Neal plus loosies Luke Martella and Jack Fisher. Sione Papani added impact from the bench along with fellow prop Dusty Foley.
Stoke’s best were first five Jesse Pitman-Joass, fullback Chris Little, halfback Mason Lund and prop Liam Ingerson.
Next weekend Central are away to Waimea Old Boys.
Meanwhile, on Thursday night, Marist proved too strong for Waimea Old Boys, prevailing 3026 in the battle of the two unbeaten sides at Trafalgar Park. At Riwaka, Kahurangi and Nelson were both chasing their first victory of the season with the visitors winning 31-21.
Points after three rounds: Marist 15, Waimea Old Boys 12, Central 10, Nelson 8, Stoke 5, Kahurangi 1.
Millar wins pipe-opener table tennis event
PETER JONES
Matt Millar came out on top when the Marlborough pipe-opener table tennis tournament was staged on Thursday
Thirty-seven players took part, with the final coming down to a battle between top seeds, Millar and Jacqui Wood.
Throughout the night, Millar made very few unforced errors and that continued in the final. He carefully placed the ball to try
and stop Wood’s attacks. Wood looped the ball consistently and had to produce some brilliant angled smashes to win points while Millar again showed his ability to return the ball from near the barricades with precision.
He took the final in straight sets but there was some great table tennis between these two skilful players.
Wood reached the final with a close four-set win over Nathan Cross in one semi while Millar
reached the decider with a win over David Stephens in the other semi.
It was a great tournament for Stephens, whose summer training paid off as he beat experienced campaigners Ken Thompsett and Jason Kennedy to reach the semi-final.
One of the matches of the tournament was Tommy Phipps’s win over Harry Speakman by 11-6, 11-5, 9-11, 6-11, 11-9. The two juniors put on a great display of
skill and sportsmanship.
Two other juniors, Levi van Kuyk and Cora Wilson each won two matches to get into the main draw.
Results of other finals were:
Special Plate: Zac Cowdrey beat Ken Thompsett 4-11, 12-10,117, 13-11. The semi finalists were Rob Honour and Tommy Phipps.
Plate 1: Harry Speakman beat Supreya Prasertsakda 11-6,118. 7-11. 11-6. The semi finalists were Kylie Hurren and Warren
Haszard.
Plate 2: Lucy Thom beat Yu Fei Wei 11-8,11-8, 10-12,7-11, 11-8. The semi finalists were Caitlin Exton and Sophia Dillon.
Consolation Plate: Fletcher Phipps beat Peter Dillon 11-4, 7-11,11-4, 8-11, 11-9. The semi finalists were Barbara Burkhart and Dennis Burkhart.
The Marlborough Open is on May 3-4.
Saturday is Open and C Grade. Sunday is Juniors and Vets.
Central replacement Cody Weir races in for a second half try at Lansdowne Park on Saturday. Photo: Peter Jones.
Premier netballers return to action
The sounds of premier netball echoed around Marlborough Lines Stadium once again on Tuesday evening.
Six teams have again fronted up for the new season’s top tier battle.
The main change from last season is the absence of Awatere, who have dropped back to grade one and Saturday afternoon netball. Replacing them and eliminating the need for a team to sit out a bye each week, will be a Marlborough men’s side who will not be eligible for competition points.
Once again Harlequins will field two sides - HQ Totalspan and HQ Grove Tavern. Pelorus, last season’s champs, return with a familiar side, while Tokomaru and Marlborough Girls’ College senior A are also back for Tuesday night battles. Pelorus, who defeated Harlequins in an enthralling final last season, will start as firm favourites with most of their title-winning team returning.
Club stalwarts such as Paige Lovell, Laura Evans, Jordy Peipi, Courtney Taufa, Kelsie Fitzpatrick and Brittney Lyons have formed the nucleus of the team for several seasons and know how to win a premiership.
The Harlequins Totalspan side will have evergreen centre Bridget Gane and the versatile Lauren Murray back to direct operations, while shooter Jorja Bacchus will add depth in the shooting circle after stepping up from the other Quins side. The second HQ side is more developmental, although Bianca Oliver, Aston Underwood and Kaya Walsh bring plenty
of premier experience. Tokomaru will again field a strong combination, the notable absentee being the ever-reliable Gemma Hika. However, with high-calibre operators such as Kayla Wilson, player/ coach Teish O’Connell, Ramona Waikato and Shannon McManaway to call on they will be very competitive.
As usual, the Marlborough Girls’ College side has lost some key personnel from the
previous campaign. However, in Sophia Nicholas, Elizabeth Bowron, Bree Flynn, Liz Pousima, Sophia Saggers and Violet Speakman they have a group of talented players with premier pedigree to call on. Senior, social and year 7&8 Future FERNS leagues begin on May 3, Future FERNS year 5&6 start on May 10 while Future FERNS year 1-4 Friday night competition begins on May 9.
Marlborough premier teams 2025
Harlequins Totalspan: Mikayla Avant, Jorja Bacchus, Celine Barnes, Jack Frew, Bridget Gane, Delyth James-Sitters, Zara Jopson, Lauren Murray, Aleisha Smith. Coach: Lesley Wilson.
Harlequins Grove Tavern: Tegan Bayly, Heidi Cuttle, Sara Follows, Samantha Williams, Hayley Jopson, Monja Oberholzer, Tyler O’Donnell, Bianca Oliver, Aston Underwood, Kaya Walsh. Coach: Wiri Bristowe.
Tokomaru Crafar Crouch: Jade Shallcrass, Kayla Wilson, Ramona Waikato, Shannon McManaway, Rebecca Mark, Shekereih Ward, Hayley Turoa, Teish O’Connell, Dakota Tepuia, Eden Hika. Coach: Teish O’Connell.
Marlborough Girls’ College senior A: Elizabeth Bowron, Bree Flynn, Anna Hurren, Jah’Bree MacDonald, Sophia Nicholas, Liz Pousima, Sophia Saggers, Violet Speakman, Tilly Tupouto’a, Jaye Wiapo. Coaches: Mi chelle Stagg and Megan McKendry.
Pelorus: Paige Lovell, Laura Evans, Renei Te Pairi, Jordy Peipi, Oriana Houra, Ella Smith, Courtney Taufa, Stormy Tupara, Kelsie Fitz patrick, Brittney Lyons, Izzy Tupouto’a. Coach Tash Cook.
Marlborough men: Jacob Collins, Shiloh Walsh, Nick Rayner, Luke Richardson, John ny Joseph, Jared Lock and Josh Tapp.
Blenheim swimmers among the medals
PETER JONES
Marlborough’s two representatives at the National Age Group Swimming Champs in Hasting earlier in the month did the province proud. Blenheim Swim Club members Will Atkinson and Nicola Lovell were the only participants from here, after Max Skehan withdrew late due to illness and injury. Seventeen and 18-year-olds have been removed from the NAGS programme and will race at the NZ Opens in late May.
Will, racing in the 14 years boys division, continues his ascent up the NZ ranks, especially in his preferred butterfly stroke where he picked up his first national title with a gold medal in the 50 fly and a bronze in
the 100 fly. He also reached the final of the 50 back.
Nicola, who competed in the 16-year-old girls section, followed up last year’s medal by claiming a silver medal in the 400 individual medley and bronze in the 200IM as well as a fourth place in the 200 breast and made the final of the 100 breast.
The next major events for these two will be NZ secondary schools in July, the Swimming Nelson Marlborough champs in early August and then the South Island champs which are in Blenheim this year from Aug 2224.
The BSC will have a team of four heading to the NZ opens in MayJack Bugler, Jack Love, Jessica Lovell and Finlay McNabb.
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The victorious Pelorus premier side in 2024. Photos: Peter Jones
Will Atkinson, centre, on the victory dias after his breakthrough victory in the 50 fly final. Photo: Swimming NZ.
Harlequins’ Lauren Murray in action last season.
Chatham Cup fortunes vary
PETER JONES
There were mixed fortunes for Marlborough’s two representatives during the preliminary round of the nationwide Chatham Cup football competition.
On Friday afternoon, Rangers AFC travelled over the hill to take on Motueka AFC and came away with 6-1 victory, while on Saturday, Central Buccaneers hosted Nelson FC at A&P Park and went down 10-1.
Rangers were up against a familiar, tenacious opponent, and took some time to find their feet, leading just 2-0 at the halftime break through goals to midfielder Jono Masters and winger Kane Elvy. They could well have been further ahead after peppering the home side’s goal only to be denied by a stellar effort from the Motueka goalkeeper.
Soon after the break the home side took advantage of a “lethargic” Rangers side to snatch a goal back, putting the visitors on notice that the game far from over. However, this only served to ignite Rangers and they scored four unanswered goals, three to returning striker Keagan Mortimer and a second to Masters. Their cause was helped when a Motueka player was red carded after the fourth goal was netted.
Player/coach Tore Waechter said, while it was not their best display, they stayed patient and got the job done.
He was full of praise for the input of their subs, man-of-the-match Elijah O’Donnell who produced
some outstanding crosses, Jack Morris and Sam Pearson, all of whom “brought the energy we needed”.
Next Saturday Rangers return to Nelson division one action, meeting Tahuna at A&P Park, with a 3pm kick-off.
Central were up against a much stronger opponent on Saturday, the FC Nelson combination being a potent mix of the two FC Nelson sides in the division one grade. The home side struck first, through lively striker Livison Madumira in the fourth minute. However, the visitors replied soon after and led 4-1 at the halftime break. Their speedy attackers proved too hard for Marlborough 2024 division one champions Buccaneers to handle, adding four more goals in the next 45 minutes, then a couple of late strikes in referee’s time to blow the score out. Than Vanuk scored a hat-trick for the visitors, Phun Lian and Fred Thompson both netting a brace.
In Nelson on Friday, Wakefield upset Richmond to progress to the first round proper, along with Rangers.
Local kick-off
Meanwhile, the local senior and junior competitions kicked off under blue skies across Marlborough on Saturday.
In men’s division one, Rangers Reserves and Trojans opened their campaign with wins.
Rangers’ Henry Piddington scored a hat-trick and Boyd Elvy a brace in their 7-1 win over Trojans Los Andes, a newly-formed team based around local South American talent. Trojans, thanks to a Matt Weaver double and an
own goal, accounted for Rangers Colts 3-1.
Ten teams will contest division two
On day one Central Wolves beat Trojans Angels 11-1, Trojans
Spartans downed Central Privateers 3-0 while Picton Crow Tavern overcame Trojans Strikers 3-0. Rangers Masters drew 2-2 with Renwick Lone Wolves and the Rangers City v BV Masters match ended in a 1-1 stalemate.
Grassroots rugby set for kick-off
PETER JONES
Marlborough grassroots rugby kicks off on Saturday, with seven teams signed up to do battle in the senior A competition. The tussle for the top spot in what was previously known as division two is likely to be closely-fought.
The Renwick ‘Mud Dogs’ have taken out the title in the previous two seasons, downing Waitohi on both occasions, in Picton in 2023 and at home in Renwick last year.
The Tohis, stung by consecutive tumbles at the final hurdle, are motivated to change the pecking order in 2025.
They have put together a solid mix of experience and youth, luring a few former premier players into the fold with a view to producing some silverware for the seaside club.
“The Green Machine” will have
other ideas though. Renwick are a formidable unit, possessing a solid core of seasoned players who are well versed in winning big matches. As with most of the grassroots teams, they will rely considerably on their vociferous hometown support to get them through the close matches.
And it won’t be just Waitohi who are hunting down the reigning champs.
Awatere have also put together a handy unit and are intent on making “Car Horn Valley” a particularly tough place for visiting teams to succeed at. Consistency will be the key for the Tussocks.
Harlequins have picked up a few new players and will be keen to make a strong start and avoid injuries to key players, thereby building confidence and maintaining momentum throughout the season.
The Central Blues have been close over the past few seasons, their predominantly youthful side always a threat at home or away. Pelorus had a tough time last year, forced to default at one stage, but have better numbers this time around and the Bojacks will be hoping to spring an upset or two.
Moutere are an unknown quantity. The Magpies struggled for numbers in the leadup but have called in some former players, plus a few youngsters, and will be as competitive as usual.
The first-round draw sees a Lansdowne Park No 1 double-header, Harlequins hosting Waitohi in the early game at 1.15pm, then Central welcoming Moutere at 3pm. The other match sees Renwick travel to Havelock to take on Pelorus, with a 2pm kick-off. Awatere have the first-round bye.
Renwick players are jubilant as the final whistle sounds in last year’s division two final. Photo: Peter Jones.
Top: Griffin Carter scores for Central Wolves. Left: Rangers in a huddle before kick off against Motueka. Right: FC Nelson’s Canaan Khupchawn battles Central’s Livison Madumira. Photos: Peter Jones and Chris Symes.
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DEATH NOTICES
SIMONSEN: Ngaire Dawn
Passed away peacefully at the Marlborough Hospice on Wednesday 16th April, aged 76 years. Loved wife of Tony (dec). Adored mother and mother-in-law of Julie and Stephen and Ricky and Louise. Cherished grandmother of Ethan and Ella and Caitlin and Luke. Treasured great grandmother of dear wee Aubrey. Special sister/sister-in-law and aunt of all her extended family. Very beloved friend of Carol and Joe, Glenys and Mike, Shirley and Lester. Messages to 14A Wither Road Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
We are deeply grateful to the amazing staff at Hospice Marlborough and all the friends and family that have supported Mum through her journey. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Marlborough Hospice Trust via their website. In accordance with Mum’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place.
TRIPE: Grace Rose
It is with incredible sadness that we announce the passing of Grace, aged 24 years, on Thursday the 24th of April in the Nurse Maude Hospice, Merivale, Christchurch. A beautiful daughter to Vanessa and Jason, adored twin sister to Jack, a cherished granddaughter and a much-loved niece and cousin. A special thank you to the kind and caring staff at the Hospice. Donations would be greatly appreciated to the Nurse Maude Association, bank account: 02-08650057217-003 or can be made at the funeral service.
“You fought until the end, rest in peace our beautiful girl”
Messages to Cloudy Bay Funeral Services c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz.
A funeral service for Grace will be held on Saturday 3rd May 2025 at 12noon at the Pernod Ricard Winery Function Centre, SH1, Riverlands followed by interment at Fairhall cemetery. For those unable to attend, the service will be livestreamed and can be viewed on www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz.
THOMPSON: David
On 26 April 2025, peacefully at the Marlborough Hospice. Dearly loved father of Frankie and a loving friend of Donna. Messages to 1/84 Houldsworth Street Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
Special thanks to the caring staff at the Marlborough Hospice. In accordance with David’s wishes a private cremation has taken place.
HOGG: Lynnette (nee Forsyth)
05/07/1948 – 09/04/2025.
Passed peacefully surrounded by family. Dearly loved and loving mother of Mark and Craig. Much loved Nanna and Great Grandmother. Cherished Sister, Sister In-Law, and Aunty. Wonderful friend to many. Daughter of Nellie and Robert (both deceased). A small private ceremony was held on 14/04/2025 in keeping with Lynnette’s wishes. Always in our hearts. Rest In Peace. Messages to c/- PO Box 9, Blenheim or www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
SHEED: Lesley Mavis
On 27 April 2025 at Bethsaida Rest Home, aged 96 years. Loved sister of Kathleen, Audrey and Brenda (all deceased). Especially loved by Murray Couling, Sharon Walker and her other nieces and nephews. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. Our thanks to the caring staff at Bethsaida. A Funeral Service for Lesley will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street on Monday 5th May at 1.00pm followed by interment at the Fairhall Cemetery. For those unable to attend, the service will be livestreamed and available on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
Locally Family Owned Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004 www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
LYALL, Robert George
“Bob”
It is with much sadness we announce the passing of Bob in Whangarei, on 24 April 2025. Proud Father of Aimee and William. Loved son of Lorraine and Ian (deceased).Brother and Brother, in law to Jeff and Kay and Jamie and Nikki. Loved by his aunties and uncles, cousins and nieces and nephew. Messages may be sent to 56 Old Renwick Road, Blenheim 7201. A Celebration of Bob’s life will be held at Sowmans Mayfield Chapel at 1pm, on 9th May 2025.
SIMPSON, June Stella
Passed away peacefully on 20th April 2025 in her 97th year. Loved and cherished wife of the late Raymond William for 76 years. Loved mother and mother in law (and best friend) of Darren and Lisa, and the late Laurice. Dearly loved Nan to Kell, Bek and George, Jen and Keith, and Lauren and Paddy. Much loved Great Nan to Cole and Fox. A very special lady, with extraordinary faith, who touched the hearts of many people. She will be sadly missed by all her family and friends. At June’s wish, a private cremation has been held. Messages to 9A Owen Place, Springlands, Blenheim. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Fred Hollows Foundation would be appreciated. A very special thanks to all the staff at Bethsaida for their loving care of June.
CLUNIES-ROSS, Nanette (née Findlay)
Passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at Wairau Hospital. Aged 97 years. Beloved wife of the late David. Dearly loved mother and motherin-law of Kristen and the late Seni, and Craig and Stacy. Cherished grandmother of Montana, Dukane, McCallum and Bobby. Much loved aunt of Emma, Katie and Jo. Special thanks to The Marlborough Women’s Club, Red Cross, and St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. Messages may be sent to the Clunies-Ross family at 52B Beaver Road, Blenheim 7201. A memorial service for Nanette has been held.loving care of June.
Respectfully cared for by Geoffrey T Sowman FDANZ Phone (03) 578 4719 www.sowmans.co.nz
