The Guardian - 15 May 2024

Golden Bay on fire at nationals

Tākaka Volunteer Fire Brigade entered the ring of fire on May 3 and 4 at the National Firefighter Challenge and achieved illuminating team and individual results.

The event, hosted in Wellington by the United Fire Brigades’ Association, is the most physically demanding on the challenge calendar, which also includes the Waterway, Road Crash, and the Drivers challenges.

Competitors race against each other and the clock in five taxing tasks in either individual or team categories, all while wearing full firefighting bunker gear and a breathing apparatus.

The tasks included scaling a six-storey tower with a length of 70mm flaked hose that weighs 19kg, hoisting a

70mm hose coil up six storeys, and dragging a lifesized dummy 30.5m.

The team, whose name, the Tākaka 39ers, derives from the station’s number, qualified for the national challenge at the South Island Firefighter Challenge in Invercargill in March.

Captain Kyle Gardiner says the 39ers included his father Neil Gardiner, Hanna Sproston, Grant Lawrence, and Upper Tākaka brigade’s Sam Goffriller. The relay team extinguished the hopes of a RNZAF Whenuapai team, claiming the first prize by three seconds, with a time of one minute and 17 seconds.

Kyle says his father “jumped almost a metre in the air” with his hands raised when

GORDON PREECE

Grant Lawrence, Kyle Gardiner, Samuel Goffriller, and Neil Gardiner at the finishline. Photo: Supplied.

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Golden Bay on fire at nationals

FROM PAGE 1

the team finished first.

“We got told we had won last year but then they placed us as second afterwards,” he says. “So we had to take that one on the chin and then, this year, it was quite the bit-

tersweetness of finally winning.”

Kyle says Sam also placed third in the individual male and became the 60th New Zealander to become a “Lion Den” after completing the course in under one minute and 40 seconds, and together the pair placed third in the open tandem category.

The 39ers also placed third in the aggregate category, and Collingwood Volunteer Fire Brigade’s

Pete Taylor and Sheree Peters placed third in the open co-ed tandem team category.

“We’re very overwhelmed and pleased with how much our training has paid off,” Kyle says. “The brigade has backed us, and we’ve had a very helping hand from [Fonterra Tākaka] letting us train in their tower, without that I’d say we would have certainly struggled.”

Two weeks to go, Motueka, show us the receipts!

ELISE VOLLWEILER

This week marks the halfway point for the third and final month of its “Shop Eat Love Motueka” promotion, with a final $200 of prize vouchers up for grabs.

The competition is coordinated through local business promotion group Our Town Motueka, and coordinator Claire Hutt says that more than 600 entries have been received each month.

Last month’s winner was Liz Waugh, who has lived in

Motueka for five years. She says that she loves the friendliness and relaxed atmosphere of shopping locally.

“It’s very vibrant with more people coming out on a sunny day.”

To enter, people can drop their receipts of $20 or more from any Motueka business into the entry boxes at Ormolu, Whitwell’s Menswear, Health 2000 or Stirling Sports. Participants have one entry per receipt, and the final winner will be drawn at the end of May.

Our Town Motueka’s Claire Hutt was delighted to present Liz Waugh with her $200 of vouchers after winning the month’s Shop Eat Love Motueka competition. Photo: Supplied.

Local edible landscape set to inspire on Country Calendar

Those tuning in to this weekend’s Hyundai Country Calendar may recognise some familiar faces on the screen.

Rozmeri Leatham, Luke Marsden and their three children will be showing their variety of produce and products from the “edible landscape”

of Little Shaggery Farm, located in the Motueka valley. Director Robyn Janes, who also lives locally, says that they are “great people who are doing some really interesting things adding value to the organic fruit they grow”. Rozmeri and Luke produce

cider vinegars, juices and shrubs, as well as healthy tonics. They also sell organic pipfruit, plums and citrus. Robyn says that it was an awesome experience to film a story just ten minutes from home, with a young family who are doing such great

stuff.

“I direct four to five Country Calendar stories a year and this was a really fun one which all the crew enjoyed.”

The episode will air on TV One on Sunday, 19 May at 7pm, and will also be available On Demand.

Learn to trap pests like a ninja

ANNE HARDIE

Everything you need to know about pests and how to trap like a ninja will be covered at a two-day predator-free hui in Richmond this weekend.

Tasman Environmental Trust and Predator Free New Zealand Trust have teamed up for the free regional hui at The Headingly Centre with a lineup of speakers, an expert panel to answer those burning questions, a tradeshow and workshops.

Predator Free activator

Elaine Asquith says, the hui

is aimed at bringing together the predator-free community to “cross pollinate”, to learn from each other, and work hand-in-hand for conservation.

“The whole hui is designed to connect and build the community and inspire. It will boost our know-how and skills level, so we really are trap ninjas on the ground.”

The ninja skills will come from wildlife biologist Cam Speedy, who has 30 years of experience working on a range of both native and introduced wildlife and will

share his newest tips to trap like a ninja.

Other speakers cover the big picture of Predator Free 2050, how to get community groups working well, conservation through a tea o Māori lens and the latest science and technology.

Elaine says the goal is to work towards being a predator-free community and encourage more biodiversity by bringing all the various pest-management groups together.

“There are so many amazing groups here that we are very

Petrol tanks drilled at night

ANNE HARDIE

Those parking in local conservation carparks have been returning to their cars to find the petrol tanks drained and sometimes plugged with chewing gum or putty.

Police have received seven reports of alleged petrol thefts from cars parked in Department of Conservation carparks in the past month with holes drilled through the petrol tank on most of those vehicles.

Nelson Bays area prevention manager, senior sergeant Adam Ramsay, says petrol was allegedly stolen from vehicles parked overnight at the Siberia Flat carpark, Wangapeka, Flora carpark in Kahurangi National Park and the Hackett Hutt carpark in Aniseed Valley.

In most instances, he says holes were drilled through the petrol tank to syphon the fuel and in some cases the hole was patched with putty or chewing gum. Most vehicle owners only noticed the theft after leaving the carpark and realising their fuel tank was empty or significantly drained.

Due to the remote locations and timing, he says the incidents are typically not witnessed and go unreported until the following day. He says there may be further incidents that have gone unreported or unnoticed due to the drilled holes being patched and the police want to hear from anyone who has not reported it.

fortunate.

“They live here because they love the environment, which is so special. This hui is to increase connectivity between them. You get all those people together in a room and things happen.”

The hui is being held on 17 and 18 May between 9am and 4.30pm and Elaine says there will be new products on display and new ideas along with the speakers, workshops and field trips.

To register for either day visit www.predatorfreenz.org

Police are working with the Department of Conservation and security contractors in an effort to identify the offender/s and he urges anyone who had petrol stolen or saw suspicious activity to contact police on 105. If anyone sees suspicious activity happening, contact police via 111.

An Apple a Day - Rozmeri Leatham and Luke Marsden with kids, Baxter, Cooper and Tilley. Photo: Robyn Janes.

Spectacular skies

Hundreds of Nelsonians braced the cold on Saturday night to try to catch a glimpse or snap a picture of Aurora Australis’ lights sweeping across the country as part of a geomagnetic storm. The Nelson Tasman region set the scene for incredible video and photos, with skywatchers taking to iconic spots like Lake Rotoiti and the Centre of New Zealand to witness the sight. Auroras result from magnetosphere disruptions by solar wind, altering charged particle trajectories from the sun.

Photo: Kunal Kumar.

Waitapu Wharf. Photo: Shelley Grell. Motueka. Photo: Yanni Chow. Ruby Bay Photo: Richard Bamfield.

Finessed performance after a frantic fortnight

ELISE VOLLWEILER

Usually putting on a theatre show is, well, quite a production, and one that takes many months from first readthrough to closing night.

This group of Tasman district home-schoolers are doing things a little differently. From the grand script reveal to the costuming, props and lighting, right through to the final performance this Saturday evening, the 21 students are packing the whole production experience into two all-consuming weeks.

The process is being led by scriptwriter Douglas Roberts, who splits his time between Auckland and Scotland.

Douglas has about 35 scripts to his name, some of which are originals and some, like this one, are created by reworking existing stories.

“Joe of Arabia” is based on Arabian Nights, featuring a protagonist who doesn’t particularly want to be in the story, two narrators who are doing their darndest to convince him to behave, and a host of sailors, traders and musicians who they encounter along the way.

Douglas says that it is important for him that all the children have a chance to play an actual character role “who has a personality and has lines to say” – no bit parts or chorus lines here.

The scripts were turned over 10 days ago, and the children, who range in age from 10 to 18, could finally see what parts they would be playing for the first “cold read”.

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It’s estimated that elder abuse affects more than 100 people each year in the Nelson Tasman region. Most cases are about finances with the majority involving family members.

11.00am, Tuesday 21 May

Many of the group members were strangers to each other before this process, but production manager and home-schooling parent

Marien Ward says that the camaraderie came quickly.

“From the moment that we read the script, it’s just a sense of close friendship that started growing.”

Douglas says that the process builds a community where the children can trust each other and be vulnerable, without fearing judgement.

They’re also being taught to trust the process, even down to the mid-week ebb where energy wanes and uncertainty sets in.

It is an intensive process, with the students doing nothing but this project during this fortnight.

Nathan Cheong, who plays King Jeroboam, says that the process was intense but that he is really enjoying himself. “Douglas is a really good teacher,” he says.

Fellow cast member Tobias Ward, who plays the titular Joe, says that it has been a great environment of friendliness and working together. He describes a feeling of “exhilaration and rush” to be getting to this point.

The show is being performed at the Tasman Church, beside Tasman Bay Christian School, on Friday 17 May at 7.30pm, and Saturday 18 May at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets cost $10 per person, and can be purchased from https://tasman-drama.7am.events/en.

Motueka Over 50’s Social Club, 10 Pah Street, Motueka

The Tasman Drama Production Project is approaching opening night, and the group of 21 students have poured their energies into the production over the two-week venture.

Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

Family fun fire afternoon for Tapawera

Add value to the way you live

Tapawera firefighters have launched a unique initiative alongside their recruitment drive: they’re seeking volunteers to provide childcare while parents answer the call of duty.

Recognising the challenge faced by parents balancing firefighting commitments and childcare responsibilities, this new initiative aims to ensure that no firefighter faces the impossible choice between serving their community and caring for their children.

volunteer firefighters so we take turns going depending on who is available, however if it’s a big one and we are both required then my mum will come and watch the kids, however, she has a full-time job and sometimes that’s just not possible,” volunteer firefighter Laura Fry explains.

“We are not the only ones in this position, altogether we have six kids under the age of five and another small handful under the age of 10 that at any given time may need to be cared for so that we can respond,” Laura says.

want to test their firefighting skills, and a sausage sizzle.

All the donations will go towards a childminder specifically appointed to help the parents respond to emergencies.

Laura says that anyone in a position to support their brigade by donating time would be appreciated.

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“My husband and I are both

Laura says that the station has been successful with recruitment recently and has added five new volunteers to the team, which is fantastic, but has also shone a spotlight on the crucial need for a childcare solution for the firefighters.

To address this, the brigade has planned a free family fun day this weekend to foster community connections, introducing the new recruits, and see if any community members can help with childminding. The event will have fire-related games, activities for adults and children, a competition for local adults who

“Come and chat to us, childminding is a way you can support us to respond quickly,” she says.

Free Family Fun Day –Tapawera Volunteer Fire Brigade, 105 Main Rd, Tapawera, Sunday, 19 May, 10am - 2pm.

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Man arrested after $50k worth of jewellery stolen in Motueka

A 32-year-old man was arrested following a burglary at a Motueka jewellery store on Tuesday morning last week.

Detective Constable Kelvin Heiford says $50,000 worth of jewellery was recovered following a search warrant.

“Police were alerted to the burglary on High St at 3.45am on Tuesday morning [last week].

“A ute allegedly pulled up outside the store, driving away a short time later,” he says. The vehicle was found at around 5:45am by police and Fire and Emergency on fire at the intersection of Whakarewa St and Queen Victoria St.

The man was taken into custody and has been charged with burglary and unlawfully taking a motor vehicle. He was due to appear in Nelson District Court last Wednesday morning.

ELOISE MARTYN

Tapawera volunteer firefighters and their families are welcoming families to a fun fire-themed afternoon and are also on the lookout for childcare support to the brigade. From left are C.J, 2, Lex, 3, and Laura Fry with Jasper Trafford, 2, Rhi Cairns, Max Trafford, 5, and Lily Perry. Photo: Myra Upson.

They’re on the Nelson App

Forbidden to drive transport truck, caught driving it in Wakefield

TRACY NEAL

Open Justice Reporter

A man forbidden to drive his heavy vehicle was found driving it again in Wakefield on 26 April, carting empty apple bins for firewood.

“It’s just a piece of paper, I don’t really think I need one,” Lester Roundtree told police about why he didn’t have a transport service licence label attached to his truck.

The 71-year-old pleaded guilty in the Nelson District Court on Monday to charges of facilitating an unlicensed service as a second or subsequent offence, and being an unlicensed transport service, failing to comply with a prohibition.

In May 2010, Roundtree was convicted in the Rangiora District Court on a charge linked to him having an unlicensed transport service vehicle.

In February 2021, Roundtree was forbidden to drive a heavy motor vehicle after he was found with an unlicensed transport vehicle and no transport service licence.

On the evening of 26 April this year, Roundtree was driving a heavy motor vehicle on Stanley Brook Rd in south Wakefield.

The police summary of facts said he was carrying a load of wooden apple bins to Motueka.

Roundtree told the court the bins were empty and he was planning to chop them up and use them for firewood.

The police saw no transport service label on the vehicle, and on further enquiries found that he did not have that particular licence for his vehicle and that he’d previously been forbidden from driving such a vehicle.

Two days later Roundtree’s truck was impounded by the police.

Judge Brett Crowley noted he was “simply transporting empty bins without the right paperwork” but had the correct licence to drive a heavy motor vehicle.

On the charge of facilitating an unlicensed service, second or subsequent, which carried a maximum $25,000 fine, he was fined $200 - the same amount as he was fined 14 years

ago, Judge Crowley said.

On failing to comply with a prohibition, which carried a maximum $10,000 fine, Roundtree was convicted and discharged and advised to carry out what he told his lawyer he’d do: Buy a smaller truck so he didn’t need the paperwork in future.

A man forbidden from driving his heavy motor vehicle because he didn’t have the right transport licence label, was then caught carting empty apple bins on his truck. Photo / 123RF.

Local History

Henry Fry – early settler of Riwaka

ROBYN PARKES

Henry Fry, one of Nelson’s early pioneers was born in Wiltshire in 1815 to Edward and Betty Fry. He married Anne Gagg in 1840 at Somerset.

Anne was born in 1821 in Wiltshire to Richard and Ann Gagg.

In seeing no prospect of bettering his position in the old country, he decided to try his fortune in New Zealand and signed an agreement with the New Zealand Company to be part of the expedition party to establish the settlement of Nelson.

Part of the agreement was that he had to stay in the service of the company for two years with a wage of 28 shillings a week.

Henry sailed on the Will Watch leaving Gravesend on the 2 May 1841, accompanied by the second ship, Whitby

The ships were farewelled by family and several representatives of the New Zealand Company with a sermon and prayer before they left the docks.

After a voyage of some five months, the two ships, along with the supply ship Arrow, arrived at their destination in November 1841.

Anne followed with her onemonth-old son Henry and 13-year-old niece Amelia, leaving Gravesend aboard the ship Lloyds, arriving in Nelson in 1842.

This was an ill-fated voyage with 67 children under the age of 14 dying, mainly from an outbreak of whooping cough.

Unfortunately, young Henry was one of those children.

Henry remained in Nelson for a short time before settling in Riwaka in May 1842, where he took up 16 acres of land to farm and over the following years was able to increase his property to 153 acres.

Shortly after arriving, Henry worked as a foreman on Samuel Stephens’ farm in 1843 and for Dr Stephens at Motueka from 1843 to 1850.

Like many of these early settlers,

laying of the foundation stone for the new Oddfellows Hall in 1864. The couple had a large family with the majority remaining in the Riwaka area.

Henry passed away in April 1903 at 86 years of age.

His funeral took place at Riwaka with a large crowd attending, a testament of his popularity and of the respect the community held for him.

Anne died nine years prior to Henry, in August 1894 at age 74.

was also one of the

others.

Her funeral at the Riwaka cemetery was one of the largest ever seen in the district up to this time with the cortege being around a quarter of a mile long.

By Sue Merrick

Henry took an active part in local affairs, being on the school committee, road committee and several

He

founders of the Riwaka Lodge of Oddfellows and was a member for nearly 60 years, being present at the

Henry Fry and his headstone. Photos: Supplied.

A beacon of support for Motueka’s elders

ELISE VOLLWEILER

“Loneliness is bad for your health.”

About six months ago, quietly and steadily, Motueka’s Age Concern office opened its doors.

The organisation already served the area, with Age Concern Nelson Tasman staff travelling to Motueka to deliver their services.

“But we’re growing,” says manager Caroline Budge. “Which is great, and we need to keep growing, because of the ageing population.”

Age Concern caters primarily to people 65 and over, offering support, advice and opportunities to connect.

“At the heart of everything we do is social connection,” Caroline says. “Social connection is one of the most important things we can do for our mental and physical wellbeing.”

“It’s quite holistic,” agrees her colleague Tanya Charles, who points out that loneliness is bad for your health. “Reduc-

ing that social isolation is one of the biggest things I do.”

Tanya staffs the office at Motueka, which is located at in the iSITE building on Wallace Street, beside the library. Despite her rather specific title of elder abuse response advisor, she is the local contact for general Age Concern enquiries as well. The organisation holds a huge amount of knowledge about how those social connections can be made locally. It facilitates a programme that links older, more housebound people with a visiting service, whereby a volunteer comes over for a cup of tea and a chat for one or two hours a week.

“Lovely friendships grow from that service,” Caroline says. She explains that the 150 regional volunteers are very well supported, with two dedicated staff members ensuring that the service is working well for everyone involved.

Another form of social connection is provided through the Total Mobility Scheme, which provides 75 per cent dis-

counts off local taxi schemes, for people who cannot access public transport.

Age Concern also offers its clients a service called Care and Repair. An evolving list of service providers – plumbers, hairdressers and gardeners, to name a few – who have been vetted for references, skills and costs – is on hand for those still living in their own homes, “so the older person has some peace of mind as to who they are inviting into their personal space”, Tanya explains.

As per her job title, she also works with people who are at risk of or suffering from elder abuse. This can take many forms – financial, psychological, sexual, physical or neglect.

Caroline says that no two cases are the same, and they work closely with other agencies such as the police, the Ministry for Social Development and the district health nurses.

Age Concern membership costs $25 per year. The office is located in the rear of iSITE, 20 Wallace Street.

Out&About

Katelyn Van Eyndhoven and Lily Wratt

Lexie Griffith and Anita Currie

Lucy Partridge, Donna Griffith and Anna Myskow

Millan and Emre Vollweiler-Kelly, Ali Kelly and Reagan Thomas

Phoebe Stewart, Jenny Willers and Elliott Rogers

Tamsin Peterson, 5, Jolene Peterson and Lance Henderson

Shia Burton, Matiri Paaka, 8, and Emma Paaka

Evelyn, 9, Steve, and Ella Bache, 5

Bridgette Phillips, Kaylee French, 7, and Cass Palmer

Ella, 11, and Alexa Brockett, 9

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Opinion

Final race decides National Championship winner

Huge congratulations - great to see the time, effort, and sacrifice paying off!

Kirstin Maree Goomes

Fantastic!

Lynley Worsley

Despised planter boxes to go

Thank goodness, they were a danger to cyclists! Let the kids at Mapua School grow veges in them!

Sally Quickfall

Where are people supposed to park?

Amy Louise

I find it interesting that the good people of Motueka seem to be able to drive safely past similar boxes with trees in them.

Roger Dunham

They should never have been put there in the first place.... absolute waste of rate payers money.

Joan Robinson

The removal of car parking is just as widely despised ... but this feedback is ignored.

Lynley Worsley

The problem of lack of recall: the original plan was that the planter boxes

would be temporary. To forget this and then to criticise is illogical. Similarly, one of the prime objectives was to make Aranui Rd safer for school kids and residents. Roads are for more than just cars.

Māpua Community Association

Maybe repurpose and donate to community hubs and schools?

Jacinda Stevenson

Given the enormous cost of them, may we know what will happen to them?

Owen English

I know a young man in a wheelchair who would love to grow his veggies in a couple of these planter boxes. Hope they will be repurposed.

Lisa Hill

We would love them for our garden if they are going cheap!

Elizabeth Hau

The MenzShed built these boxes which is awesome for our community. What is not awesome is they are not used. Burbush Park has six boxes because they have no use for them. And they are not safe on our roads. Herbert Street boxes need to be removed for cyclist safety.

Daniel Gordon

What did it cost in planning, labour, traffic managment, plant and equipment etc to have these installed and maintained? Only to have them removed...be good to see an itemised invoice.

Luke Threadwell

Trial and error….hopefully they will be relocated appropriately.

Linda Hong

Expensive firewood.

Aryal Monk

Foodsharing service revived amidst tough times

Awesome. Well done, team.

Lee Corlett

WHAT’S HAPPENING atourlibrary

Te Noninga Kumu - 32 Wallace St - 03 528 1047

Library Closure – Wednesday 15 May

Due to changes to our library computer system the Tasman libraries will be closed. Reopening on Thursday 16 May with limited services available.

Paper Artsy – Thursday 16 May, 1.30pm-3.30pm

BookCafe – Monday 20 May, 10.30am12pm

Stitch Bloom Embroider group – Monday 20 May, 1.30pm-3pm

World Bee Day – Monday 20 May Colour in a Bee for our Community display and Bee a Reader, fill in a quick Book recommendation to share with others.

Age Positive series for Adults

1. How’s Your Memory – Wednesday 22 May, 10.30am-11.30am Heather Lackner will provide information on Dementia and risk factors.

2. Protect Yourself – Thursday 23 May, 10.30am-11.30am Learn essential online safety tips from Jen from NBS.

3. Mindful Art – Monday 27 May, 2pm-3pm Experience Neurographic Art: a technique of doodling lines, circles and shapes

NZ Music Month Concerts – Motueka High School students performing. Wednesdays 22 May and 29 May, 1pm-2pm

Cross stitch a Bee – Friday 24 May, 1.30pm-3.30pm

Beginners welcome, all materials provided. Book in at the library or phone (03) 528 1047.

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The Waimea Combined Barbarians had almost 50 boys turn up for the start of the season, before being refined down to 28 ahead of their debut this weekend.

Barbarians given boost by Motuekians

JACK MALCOLM

This year’s Waimea Combined Barbarians are eager to show that they aren’t just a team of Waimea College players and some stragglers.

With seven Motueka High Schoolers and two making the trip over from Golden Bay twice a week for training and again for games, the Waimea Combined Barbarians have one of the most diverse squads in recent history. And to show their desire to encompass their players’ representation, the team’s season debut

will be at Motueka Sports Park on 25 May, when they take on Roncalli.

“It’s, in part, a thank you to those boys for travelling week in and week out,” says coach Shayne Huhu.

But first, the team has an away date with St Thomas of Canterbury this weekend to kick off their season after a tough schedule of preseason games.

The team is battle-hardened, having been given confidence despite losing over the weekend in a preseason match against Timaru Boys High School in Hamner.

With TBHS playing in the premiership this season and the Barbarians a grade down in the championship, the 29-19 loss reflects a team eager to be at the top of its table at the business end.

Shayne says the team’s focus during preparations this season has been refining its processes and gelling as a squad.

“You don’t have that community at school [other teams have].”

He says the preseason’s tough schedule has made their performances a bit of a hit-and-miss. They look to be championship contenders when they play as a

team, but he says it could have been better.

“It’s hard to explain. . . When we missed a tackle or something went wrong, we drop our heads,” he says.

With almost 50 boys turning up to preseason training, which started in December, the squad has been refined to 28 young men ahead of this season.

Shayne says it was a good but tough place to be a coach.

There was a wealth of players to choose from, but a lack of feeder teams meant he had to make some hard decisions about who

would eventually make the final squad.

Now in his fourth year with the team, he says it would be a storybook ending for a lot of his players to win a championship this season.

“A majority of our players are year 13 and there’s four boys who it’s their third year with the side. I’d love to finish on a high for them,” he says.

Two of those more experienced players will captain the team, with Harry Horncastle set to lead and James Strang set to be his vice-captain.

Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Shuttersport photographer Chris Symes headed to Sports Park Motueka on Saturday to catch some junior rugby between Motueka United, Huia and Riwaka. In last week’s issue of The Guardian it was mistakenly printed that Mikaere Funnel played for Huia, he plays for Motueka United.

Community Notices

MONDAY

MOTUEKA ELYSIUM Mon, 9.30am, Muses Café. For Widows and Widowers. Join us for coffee and chat, friendship, and support. Ph: Carol 035285027.

WOULD YOU LIKE A BIKE? Bike Hub Nelson accepts donations of good used bikes, fixes them up and gives them away for a small koha. 142 Saxton Rd. Mon, 5.30-7pm. For other opening times and a map e: bikehubnelson@gmail.com.

MOTUEKA BETTER BREATHERS, Mon, 11.30am, Motueka Recreation Gym ‘Functional Fitness Room’, Old Wharf Rd. A 60-minute series of guided exercises done seated or standing, specifically designed to help those with breathing difficulties. Ph: Jess 0275467675.

MOTUEKA HIGHLAND PIPE BAND, Mon, 7pm. Band is located beside Motueka Recreation Centre. Promoting Scottish tradition and culture. We look forward to your participation. More info: Ph: 027284 8361.

MAPUA FRIENDSHIP CLUB. Indoor bowls, 1st & 3rd Mon. Mapua Bowling Club rooms. 2pm, Bring a plate of afternoon tea. Lots of laughs. Ph: Val 035403685.

TUESDAY / WEDNESDAY

MOCKINGBIRDS MUSIC GROUP, Tues, 2-3.30pm, Senior Net, Pah St. If you enjoy some fun singing/playing music, come along with your instrument, we’d love you to join us. Beginners very welcome. Ph: Sue 02102416155.

NEW '500' CARD GAMES, Tues, 1-3pm, the over 50s Hub, Pah street, Motueka. Fun, friendship, CARDS & cuppa. Everyone welcome. Info Ph: Keith 0274516422.

HOPE TENNIS CLUB SOCIAL TENNIS Every Tues, 9.30am, Hope Tennis Courts, Hope Domain. All abilities most welcome. Queries Ph: 0211729257.

MOTUEKA BRASS Tues Evenings. Discover your musical talent with us! Join our lively brass band for an unforgettable experience To join Ph: 021728168 or come along.

MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL office at Community House, Decks reserve. Wed, 11-3pm. Inquiries about art activities; funding for Art; Art ideas for Motueka. Ph: 0210589388.

YOGA. If you have or have had cancer, we offer restorative yoga classes. Tues, 12.30pm. Ph: 5287669 or e: maureen.urwin@cancernelson.org.nz to reg.

AGE CONCERN TEA & TALK, Every Wed, 10.30am, The Shed, 24a Tudor St. More info Ph: 0279214074.

KNIT & NATTER Wed, 10-12pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Hub, 10 Pah St. Friendly group for all ages. Includes refreshments. Ph: Roz 027415636. All welcome.

WALK 4 HEALTH, Wed, 8.30m, Motueka Community Garden. 3050 min walk at your own pace, for any age, any fitness and size. Ph:0273015598 or wellontrack@gmail.com

MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL invites all folk interested in community arts in Motueka, to their monthly meetings. 2nd Wed of month, 7pm, community house.

TOASTMASTERS MOTUEKA meet 1st & 3rd Wed of month, 6.45pm start, St John’s rooms, Jack Inglis Hosp, Courtney St. Gain speaking confidently, friendly environment. More Info Ph: Peter 0277468311.

THURSDAY / FRIDAY

"THE GREAT AWAKENING" is happening all around us. Thurs, 16 May, 4.30-6.30pm, Revite Cafe, 265 High Street, Motueka. What are you tuning into? How can this transform our society and economic system? All welcome. Ph: Dada 0225060428 for info.

MOTUEKA REBUS CLUB next meeting, Fri, 17 May, 10am, The Bandrooms. Great speakers, good fellowship, all welcome. Ph: John 0274082206.

MEDITATION, Weekly meditation sessions open to all. Thurs, 12.15-12.45pm, Te Noninga Kumu - Motueka Library. During term time. No registration needed. Just come along. More info: Ph: Louise Petzold 0278789240.

NELSON BAYS HARMONY CHORUS, (women’s choir), is seeking new members to join our happy group. Thurs evenings, Club Waimea, Richmond. Ph: Carole 0274360910.

MOTUEKA 50+ WALKING GROUP every Thurs. More info Ph: 0212640403 e: secretary50pluswalkers@gmail.com, or www. motueka50pluswalkers.org.nz.

MOTUEKA LIGHTHOUSE Spiritual Group. Meet, last Thurs of

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY

50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: office@topsouthmedia.co.nz

month, 7-9pm, Motueka Community House, Opposite the ISite. Everyone welcome. Donation Appreciated. e: angel3000.h@gmail. com or www.facebook.com/lighthousemotueka.

RUMMIKUB Thurs, 1-4pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Club, 10 Pah St. Friendly group, includes refreshments. All welcome. Ph: Keith 0274516422.

THE DOCTORS MOTUEKA – Walking Group, Thurs, 9am, by the Janie Seddon Shipwreck carpark. Walking for 30 mins, suitable for all fitness levels. Make your daily walk more fun and meet new people. Ph: 035288358.

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meet 1st Thurs of the month, 1.30-3.30pm, Broadgreen House, 276 Nayland Rd. Ph: Bill 035448635 or 035391137.

MOTUEKA G.R.G 2nd & 4th Thurs, 1-3pm, St Andrews lounge, 64 High St. Support group welcomes grandparents/kin raising/ supporting grandchildren. Join us for a confidential relaxed and supportive time with others. Ph: 0211337299.

SENIORNET MOTUEKA, The Genealogy Interest Group meets 2nd Fri, 2pm. Ph: Allan ‭0279711100 or visit www.seniornetmotueka.org.nz

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

CALLING ALL WEST COASTERS, Sunday worship service with a West Coast theme. Sun, 19 May, 10am, Methodist Parish Church, 94 Neale Ave, Stoke. Morning tea follows service. A warm welcome guaranteed.

CELTIC PIPE BAND CEILIDH DANCE, Sat, 25 May, 7-9pm, Nayland College Hall. Immerse yourself in an evening of vibrant Traditional Scottish Dancing and Music. Indulge in the spirit of the Highlands with our Licensed Bar featuring Whiskey, while relishing a delightful Haggis & light Supper. Don your Kilt, Highland dress, Tartan Accessories. Tickets from Richmond Mall Info Desk. HARMONIUM KIIRTAN WORKSHOP, Sat 25, & Sun 26 May, 104pm, 66 Pah St, Motueka. For people who want to learn the harmonium & lead kiirtan or play for personal enjoyment. Ph: Madhu 0220873136 for info.

MEDITATION, CHANTING & TALK, Sat (until 8 Jun), 5-7pm, 66 Pah St, Motueka. All welcome. For info Ph: Dada 0225060428 Koha.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Sat, 10-12pm, Motueka Library. Free services, including copy certification and witnessing signatures are available.

NELSON BRANCH OF ROYAL NZ AIRFORCE ASSOCIATION

Meet 2nd Sat each month, 12pm, Club Waimea, Richmond, Phil’s Restaurant. Interesting speakers, raffles and members interested in Aviation Ph: Trever Squires 039706644 or John Bethwaite 035476634. Cost of meal $25

GENERAL GROUPS

RUM MORRIS DANCERS. Musicians and dancers but mostly friends. Slightly random - mostly Tues evenings, sometimes Wed. Get yourself a second favourite form of aerobic exercise. Ph: Dorris 02040618088.

MOTUEKA RIDING FOR THE DISABLED We need more volunteers to help with therapeutic riding sessions. Tues, Wed, Thurs, 8.30-1pm. Ph: 0211151720 or e: info@motuekarda.nz.

COMMUNITY HARAKEKE WEAVING project by Motueka Art Council is on now at the Library daily till Christmas, everyone can contribute as we weave a tree of putiputi. Special sessions for beginners wanting to learn. Free event.

GREYPOWER MOTUEKA welcomes visitors at the Community House office, Decks Reserve on Wallace St. for ongoing service requests. Discount provider list available. Ph: 035289076 or e: greypowermot@gmail.com.

INDOOR BOWLS, Mon & Wed, 1.15-3pm, Motueka Over 50s Hub, 10 Pah St. All abilities welcome. Ph: Jude 0273244226

RIWAKA CROQUET CLUB, do you and a group of friends/family/ workmates want to spend a fun few hours learning to play croquet? You need a minimum of 8 players, $10 each, all equipment provided and someone from our club to help you learn the game. Full access to the clubhouse kitchen. For info Ph: 0276308910.

SENIORNET MOTUEKA Take advantage of the many interest groups offered. Join SeniorNet Motueka. To join, visit www.seniornetmotueka.org.nz, or Ph: Allan 0279711100.

MOTUEKA MENZSHED, Wed or Thurs 9-12pm, MenzShed, Marchwood Park, College Rd. Want to learn a new skill? e: secretarymotmenzShed@gmail.com or just turn up.

MOTUEKA TRAMPING CLUB, A diversity of weekend day walks

and multi-day trips suitable for a range of fitness levels. Visit www.motuekatrampingclub.org to learn more about your local Club, or e: membership.motuekatc@gmail.com for info on joining. RED CROSS MOTUEKA BRANCH Fundraising shop, open Mon – Fri, 10-2pm. Community House, Decks Reserve. We sell clothing, household linen and books. Donations of sellable goods are appreciated.

SURVIVORS AND THRIVERS GROUP, if you have or have had cancer, or supported someone else, come and connect. Reg maureen. urwind@cancernelson.org.nz or 5287669.

MULTICULTURAL MOTUEKA welcomes migrants and refugees every Tues & Fri, 8.30 -1pm, Community House, Decks Reserve. We provide connection and practical assistance for newcomers to our region as well as support for all cultural activities happening in our community. Ph 027 5286744 or sez@multiculturalnt.co.nz. MOTUEKA TENNIS CLUB. INC. Social Tennis, Tues & Thurs, 9.30am, Sun, 2pm. Courts behind the Memorial Hall Pah St. Racquets available to borrow for new Members. All welcome.

GATEWAY TO YOUR WELLBEING, Wellbeing is important for all of us to thrive. The shed is a safe place to meet new people in a supportive and caring environment. We can connect you with other agencies for the right support needed. More info Ph: 0279214074, E: admin@ght.co.nz or pop in 24a Tudor St, Motueka. MOTUEKA DISTRICT BRASS Do you want to be part of a fun, social and competitive band, who make players welcome? e: motueka.brass@gmail.com or Ph: 021728168

MOTUEKA NEWCOMERS New to Motueka? We’re a social group, mostly retired (50+) who meet regularly and welcome newcomers. More info Ph: Jana 035284355.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS. Is alcohol causing problems for your life? Want to stop drinking but can’t? Maybe we can help. Support meetings every day. Ph: 0800aaworks, 08002296757.

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP, If you have or have had breast cancer, come along to this friendly atmosphere. 102 Hardy St, Nelson. Reg: 035391137 or E: info@cancernelson.org.nz.

SUSTAINING TENANCIES Having trouble with your Tenancy? Need help working things through with your landlord or tenant? Gateway Housing Trust. Info E: housing@ght.co.nz or Ph: 035457100.

Community notices are free to community groups, schools, churches, gold coin donation events and fundraising only. For classified ads and public notices please call

528 2088. Due to the popularity of this column, while every effort will be made, inclusion cannot be guaranteed for free ads.

Puzzles and Sudoku

Results this week

Rugby:

Premier Men: Waimea Old Boys 20 - Marist 18; Stoke 54 - Moutere 21; Nelson LBD - Kahurangi WBD; Central bye.

Premier Women: Kahurangi 72Moutere 0; Waimea Old Boys 31 - Marist 52.

Second division: Nelson 14Stoke 48; Collingwood 17 - Riwaka 22; Marist 39 - Murchison 17; Waimea Old Boys 12 - Huia 41; Tapawera 18 - Wanderers 27; Takaka bye.

Football:

Chatham Cup: Nelson Suburbs 5 - Richmond FC 0; Tahuna FC 2FC Nelson 3 (extra time).

Premier men: Motueka 1 - Rangers 11; Tahuna - FC Nelson Karenni, Golden Bay Mountain Goats - Richmond AFC, FC Nelson - Suburbs SPL Reserves postponed.

Premier women: Suburbs Swans 1 - Richmond Foxes 7; Golden Bay Shield Maidens 2 - Suburbs SPL Reserves 4; Motueka Angels 3 - Mapua Cougars 11; FC Nelson Diamonds 1 -0 Tahuna Breakers 11.

Basketball:

NBL: Wellington Saints 96 - NBS Nelson Giants 105

Rapid League: Wellington Saints 33 - Nelson Giants 31.

Premier grade (7 May): Gilas Pilipinas 57 - ABC Mamba 71; Stoke Raiders 48 - ABC Old Boys 118; JA Ballers 80 - Mot Buckets 50; ABC Magic 78 - Koata Krazy Horzes 77.

Netball: Stoke NBS 47 - Nelson Girls College senior A 36; Prices Waimea Ahurei 54 - Jacks OPD 64; FCL Nelson Men 73 - Richmond F45 35.

Hockey:

P1 men: Waimai United 3 - Federal 1; Tasman White - Stoke deferred; Tasman Black bye.

P1 women: Endeavours 4 - Federal 0; Stoke P2 0 - Waimai United Gold 4; Rewa 0 - Stoke P1 16. Stirling & Dodson Cups: U18 Men: Marlborough 2 - Nelson 4; Marlborough 4 - West Coast 0; Nelson 3 - West Coast 0. Nelson overall winner.

U18 Women: Marlborough 0Nelson 5; Marlborough 4 - West Coast 1; Nelson 12 - West Coast 0. Nelson overall winner.

See the full match report on

Right now at Guthrie Bowron,

A minor ankle injury and innumerable blisters couldn’t stop Sport Tasman chief executive Ed Shuttleworth from finishing 24 hours of running, having completed 142.3km. After completing multiple ultra marathons over the last several years, he says he didn’t train “too much” due to a niggling injury, signing up only a couple of months ago. Having to run circles around the same athletics track for a full day and night, Ed says it was challenging to remain present and mindful without becoming bored, despite the support of his wife Olivia and children. Coming into the finish, he had planned to sprint as fast as he could for the final two minutes and says it was the “best victory lap ever”. Photo: Supplied.