Best Life - November December 2023

NOV / DEC 2023

Rollin’ back the years Helping in the Himalayas The grand pianist New experience on the water Richmond’s grand country estate

First edition!

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POSITIVE AGEING

Expo

The Positive Ageing Expo expo has been bringing people together and connecting over 70 specialist service providers with the communities they serve, in one place, since 2008.

10AM – 2PM

Service providers in the areas of recreation, health and social wellbeing will be invited to submit their application for stallholder space shortly, through Tasman District Council’s website and Facebook page.

SATURDAY 6 APRIL 2024

The venue offers easy access, ample parking, and transport options will be available on the day.

POSITIVE AGEING The Nelson Tasman Positive Ageing Forum's role is to provide an opportunity for older persons and agencies who work for and with them to enable residents of Nelson Tasman to age positively.

As part of promoting positive ageing, we host regular networking and information sessions for older people in Richmond and Motueka called Positive Ageing Forums. The meetings are open for agencies and individuals and cover various topics such as wellbeing, housing, digital literacy and others.

These events are open to all and dates will be confirmed early next year. Keep an eye on Tasman District Council’s website and Facebook page.

www.tasman.govt.nz www.facebook.com/tasmandistrictcouncil

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HEADINGLY CENTRE, RICHMOND

Forum

Contents

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER ISSUE

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8-9

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New experience on the water Rose Campbell shares her experience of taking up sea kayaking for the first in her midsixties.

Passionate People Philip Steans developed a passion for country music, but not without its challenges.

14-15 Rollin’ back the years From watching mum to winning medals.

8-9

16-17 Helping in the Himalayas Nelson couple help some of the worlds most under educated children.

18-19 A grand pianist Colleen Rae-Gerrard has built her career playing the piano.

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Historical Tales The historic homestead of ‘Rostrevor’ is cited as one of the region’s oldest surviving colonial homes.

Grab your copy: Nelson City Council, Nelson library, Stoke library, Greenmeadows Centre, Tasman District Council, Richmond library, Alioke Eatery, Motueka Guardian office, Motueka Library, Rabbit Island Coffee Co, retirement homes, waiting rooms, cafés and various other locations.

16-17

NOV / DEC 2023

Rollin’ back the years Helping in the Himalayas The grand pianist New experience on the water Richmond’s grand country estate

First edition!

On the Cover Keiko Bamba Rollin’ back the years Page 14 -15 Photo: Tessa Jaine

This publication is printed on environmentally responsible paper produced from FSC® Certified Mixed Source pulp from Responsible Sources.

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Editor’s note

Welcome EDITOR Karen Scott bestlife@topsouthmedia.co.nz CONTRIBUTORS Adrienne Matthews, Felicity Connell, Amy Russ, Ro Cambridge, Patricia Pataki, Stella Chrysostomou, Tessa Jaine ADVERTISING Wendy Rankin wendy@topsouthmedia.co.nz Christine Hatton christine@topsouthmedia.co.nz Ph 03 548 5900 DESIGN Patrick Connor & Toni Woolf

50+ LIVING NELSON

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When an unexpected door opens, you can either stay on the outside and wonder ‘what if’ or be brave and walk into opportunities you never thought possible.

Three years ago, my hubby and I relocated to Nelson to be with family. There was nervous excitement as we embraced our new adventure away from our five children, grandies, friends, and all that was familiar. To be honest, it took time to find our place, but we have a new tribe: tramping buddies in our beautiful backyard of the Abel Tasman National Park, a community of creative filmmakers and photographers, and best of all, connection with a diverse range of charities, cultural and art groups and businesses.

I hope this magazine inspires, encourages and challenges you to go through unexpected doors, experience new adventures and in this season, live your Best Life.

Karen Scott

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Giving it a go

Rose Campbell on her kayak in the Nelson Marina.

New experience on the water With great weather and easy access to stunning locations from the Marlborough Sounds through to the Abel Tasman, Nelson has an enviable reputation for being a sea kayaker’s paradise. Rose Campbell shares her experience of taking up sea kayaking for the first time in her mid 60s.

As told to Felicity Connell | Photos Tessa Jaine

Why sea kayaking?

What were your next steps?

I’ve always loved being on or near the water. As a kid I holidayed at Lake Rotoiti and I’d row a big old clinker dinghy on the lake. I loved the peacefulness, being so close to the water and the sensation of the oars cutting through the water. As an adult I often lived near the water, and while I did heaps of water activities, I never learnt to kayak. In 2021 I moved to Nelson to work for the Arts Festival. When the festival was cancelled later that year it was a prompt to focus on the things I really wanted to do. Sea kayaking topped that list.

I got advice about the right kayak for me. I went to Thursday night training sessions run by Dave Welch.

He’s so encouraging to beginners. I went on club trips and peer paddles, where people look out for you and give tips. I also watched YouTube videos. I kept working on my technique and fitness.

How did you get started?

I found the Nelson Kayak Club online. Their beginner’s course was full, but someone told me about the Thursday night club sessions. Although I didn’t yet have my own kayak, I drove down to where the club meets, looked out for people with kayaks on their roofs, and got talking with them. The next day I went to Kayak HQ where Chris West let me trial a kayak for a weekend so I could join a club trip - leaving from Stephens Bay and paddling down the Riuwaka Inlet.

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What fitness do you need?

People often think it’s all about having strong arms, but actually the power comes from your core – there’s a twisting motion when you paddle. Your legs do some work as well. It helps to have good upper body strength to lift your kayak on and off your vehicle and carry it to the water. At the end of a long paddle you also need strength to do a beach landing, get yourself out of the kayak, and then haul it back up the beach.

Do you need a lot of equipment?

As well as a kayak, you need a buoyancy vest and gear that will keep you warm if you fall into the water. If you’re going into the open sea, a personal locator beacon is a must. A high tech paddle is a good investment. As with any passion, there’s always new gear to tempt you.

As someone new to Nelson, did it help you meet new people?

Yes! I like that kayaking is based on your own personal skills and ability, but it’s also a very social experience. It’s fun going out with people who are really into the same thing that you are. You can talk endlessly about gear, and about what the weather and the tides are doing.

What do you love about kayaking?

It’s the proximity to the water. Being right on the water, you might be paddling with seals, dolphins or penguins.

It’s amazing being right there when the big seabirds dive to catch fish.

Kayaking ranges from peaceful and meditative to exhilarating and even utterly terrifying. I had an experience where the weather changed and suddenly we were in very challenging conditions. It was a good lesson in really understanding the impact of a weather forecast.

We knew the wind would get up – but just didn’t quite understand what that would do to the waves!

One of the special things about kayaking is you can go to places that are only accessible by boat. Sea kayaks are set up so you can pack plenty of gear, so it opens up opportunities for camping and hiking adventures, too.

We’ve stayed at some magical places in the Marlborough Sounds and the Abel Tasman.

You can do short, cruisy trips as well. On Sunday mornings we often head out with friends from the Coastguard on Wakefield Quay and paddle around to the marina, where we tie up and have coffee at Ruby’s.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in sea kayaking?

Be courageous. Don’t be afraid of failure or looking silly. Be open to learning, seek advice, and join a kayaking club!

For me, it has opened up so many other things that I couldn’t have envisaged at the beginning. I thought, I just want to learn to kayak. But in the process I’ve gained so much more – fun, friendships and unforgettable experiences.

Can you picture yourself here?

You dream it. We have the gear.

www.kayakhq.co.nz 9

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The Grey Urbanist

Great expectations

By Ro Cambridge

I

wrote my first ever column in 2009 for a now defunct lifestyle magazine. Even as a neophyte columnist, I knew that a column, particularly a first column on the brink of summer and Christmas, should not be about death and grief. And so I began the column with an apology, explaining that “one of my dearest friends has just died, and I can’t summon anything amusing or celebratory to write about.”

I’m very pro-denial. Denial makes it easier to cope with the challenge of being human. However, one cannot deny ageing and mortality forever, modern pharmaceuticals, surgery and cryogenics notwithstanding.

And so I have finally accepted that I have entered what I call The Departure Lounge. This is the place where you wonder more often which accident or malady - of the infinite variety available - will consign you to oblivion. And if you will expire before your driver’s licence.

To prepare for my first column in this new magazine, I reread what I had written so hesitantly 14 years ago I’ve never been beautiful. I had a good day about 40 when I was a mere stripling of 56. I was surprised to years ago, I’ve got the photo to prove it, but now my unfind that although I remembered its apologetic openbeautiful face is old. Years of dog walking and general ing, I had forgotten that it endmooching have made my feet a ed with a tiny flicker of joy even mess of calluses and corns. I wear I’m now a resident in The though I was so grief-stricken. arch supports. Me! Arch supports!

Departure Lounge, I’m happier

“You sit in the sun beside the kitchterm “senior moment” has inand have more self-acceptance The en door with a book and a cup of filtrated my vocabulary and with than ever before. tea” I wrote, “the sweet-peas are it the spectre of alzheimer’s or still wet with rain. The dog curls up dementia. Aches and pains which beside you. You can’t believe the world is so kind and used to vanish overnight, tend to linger. When I visit so generous.” the doctor, I take a list.

I wrote subsequent columns for that magazine, and then for the Nelson Mail, on many other subjects including dogs, depression, work, technology, books, motels, peacocks, supermarkets, and how much I hate Christmas.

I’ll be writing on a similarly eclectic range of topics in this column, but this time as a 70-year old, an old age pensioner, and a member of that gang of ageing baby boomers aka The Grey Tsunami which cause town planners and economists so much angst.

Sometimes I’m exasperated by the quotidian nature of everyday life, which as you might know, happens every day. All day! For years! Sometimes I can’t bear the thought of washing another dish.

But, Dear Reader, fear not the tenor of future columns.

In spite of, or perhaps because, I’m now a resident in The Departure Lounge, I’m happier and have more self-acceptance than ever before. Life in The Lounge is full of quirk and curiosity, fun and fury, wanderings and wonderings. It can even be joyful. Though not at Christmas.

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Passionate people

Finding his voice… again Philip Steans first picked up a microphone when he was in his forties, and last month came second in the Veteran Gospel section at the Sun City Country Music Awards, but he had his challenges along the way, as Judene Edgar finds out.

I

was a late starter. As a child, I used to listen to Jim Reeves singing on a little portable record player under my bed. I would sing along to my records, but I never got behind a microphone until I was in my forties.

The first time I ever sang in public was at the Tapawera Country Music Club. I sang ‘The Great Snowman’. I was so nervous; I always am at competitions. I pace back and forth. And as a former fireman, the minute I get on the stage, I always look to see where the nearest fire exit is.

I’ve only written one song, ‘A mother so true’.

I wrote it 20 years ago when my mother passed away. I used to sing to her when I’d visit her at Oakwoods, and the nursing staff asked me one day if I’d sing to all of the residents, and that really started things off. I still enjoy singing at rest-homes around the region.

The first competition I entered was the Motueka Country Music Awards. My good friend Paula Connor talked me into it. She’s talked me into lots over the years! But it’s never been about the awards; for me it was always a great way to meet new people. I love the camaraderie.

I thought my singing had come to an end seven years ago. Having been flown to Wellington Hospital for lifesaving emergency surgery, I woke up days later and could hardly talk. Despite doctors saying it would come back in a few days, it didn’t, as my vocal cords were damaged when paramedics had to force tubes down my throat to get me breathing again.

I was just grateful to be alive. After two operations on my vocal cords, I finally got my voice back. After two years off singing, I started dipping my toes back into the water, singing at rest-homes again. I’ve had to learn new songs as I don’t have the same power and range as I had before.

Photo Tessa Jaine

Labour Weekend this year I entered the Sun City Country Music Awards, my first competition since I started singing again. I came second in the Veteran Gospel section which was great, but it was more about regaining my confidence, and it was so good to see so many of my old friends again.

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Rollin’ back the years Watching her two daughters practice skating for an hour in the cold got a bit boring for Keiko Bamba, so she decided to take up the sport as well. Fourteen years later she’s an Oceania champion, as Alistair Hughes finds out.

K

eiko Bamba became an international masters level figure skating champion at the age of 65, and is greatly amused that she received her first gold medal, and her gold card in the same year. “A double gold,” she laughs.

Her path to this remarkable achievement has been long, and many would say late, as a decade of age difference exists between Keiko and her competitors. But long before she ever strapped on roller skates, she and her husband Tetsu made another momentous journey, from Kyoto, Japan to New Zealand in 1995.

“It was impossible when I was born, over sixty years ago, to move from country to country”, explains Keiko.

“We wanted to try something different, so when we were able to immigrate we agreed on four conditions.”

These were that it would be an english-speaking country, with four distinct seasons, (like Japan), where people drove on the left side of the road, and gun ownership was not widespread. “Another good point we found after arriving is that New Zealand doesn’t have any nuclear power stations”, adds Keiko.

It is difficult to fault that reasoning, but what brought them to Nelson specifically? The instant response of ‘the weather’ is unsurprising, but the connection to a now extinct Japanese tea orchard is less expected.

“Before moving here we made a little trip to Milford Sound, “ explains Keiko. “In the same party were some people from Nelson, and they had a Japanese tea orchard, which used to be in Motueka.”

The orchard owners had been taught tea growing and how to speak some Japanese by experts from Shizuoka, and Keiko and Tetsu knew that climate well. “If tea 14

Photo Tessa Jaine

plants from there could grow in Motueka, we knew it must be good weather.”

A desire to break from living in a major city surrounded by people clinched the deal for the couple and Keiko says they have never felt homesick or thought of moving anywhere else since settling in Nelson. Tetsu set up his practice as an acupuncturist and Keiko became a professional caregiver for the elderly. As their two daughters Hayley and Mitsuko grew up, the girls began to show an interest in rollerskating, and eventually ferrying them to the rink for their lessons became Keiko’s job.

“At that time I was 51, and I was waiting with all the other mothers in the cold until the lesson finished.”

Because of the chill and boredom, Keiko rented some skates and started practicing on another part of the rink.

“It felt strange at first, but it was better than sitting down for an hour.”

Keiko had done some ice skating back in Japan, and quickly became proficient on roller wheels, but it was a while before she thought about entering competitions.

“After two years of skating by myself, I knew I needed some sort of goal, to improve, but I wasn’t very happy in the beginning about going into competitions, it was embarrassing!”

But practicality won out when Keiko realised as she was already travelling with her daughters to their competitions, and organising accommodation for the three of them, entering as a competitor herself was only a minor extra expense.

“Because my daughters started at a young age, they were able to help me. And now we had the same topic in common, so were always talking about skating.”

Keiko and her girls trained under coach Pam Peters until she left Nelson in 2014, and then took lessons from a visiting coach from Wellington, Imelda Coleman.

“Most of the time I just had to survive by myself. It was very tough, though.” Keiko’s drive saw her consistently finish in the top three at masters level figure skating, while also competing in solo dance events at the national and Oceania championships. But when a friend congratulated her for winning bronze - ‘again’, Keiko realised that she was dissatisfied.

Kieko with her daughters Mitsuko and Hayley who are also figure skaters. Photo supplied.

medal. Eager to repeat their success, Tara accompanied Keiko to this year’s national championship in Auckland, to assess the competition and judging criteria. This left the women four weeks to put what they had learned into practice for the Oceania finals. And in Brisbane this August, Keiko won gold again. Competitors couldn’t hear the marks being called out, and she had no idea how well she had done until the end. “I never thought I would win against the leading New Zealand master skater, but my name was at the top. We did it.”

Keiko recieving the gold medal at the Pacific Cup. Photo supplied.

“I wanted a different colour! Last year I decided to stop competing in solo dance. I liked it, but it was too difficult to do at competition level, and dropping it created more time for figure skating.”

Two months before last year’s Oceania Pacific Cup finals, Keiko met her current coach Tara Westwood.

“She’s a former world championship skater who has represented New Zealand and is an amazing coach.

She could instantly tell me “This arm is too low, or too high, or this leg should be straighter. It made a huge difference.”

That is possibly an understatement, as the transformation was enough for Keiko to win her first Oceania gold

Looking ahead, Keiko is philosophical about what the future might bring. A recurring knee problem meant that she missed a month of skating earlier this year, and she is aware that it could flare up again at any time. But having an acupuncturist as a husband definitely has its advantages. “He can give me treatment, or boost up my energy level and he never ever complains,” she says.

In the meantime, Keiko uses a different kind of needle skill for the skating club, making patterns and sewing leotards for the newest members. She also keeps fit on the slopes of Stoke. “If you see a little Asian lady walking around the hills — that’s me.”

Her passion for skating remains. “Sport can be exhausting, but skating isn’t. You’re still using leg muscles, but not puffing, and speed is fun. If I’m lucky I can skate next year and I’m still hoping for that, but no promises!”

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Durga Aran at a classroom built from earthbags at Shree Jana Jyoti School, Dyali.

Helping in the Himalayas For Nelson couple Fionna Heiton and Durga Aran, helping some of the world’s most uneducated children has become a decade-long quest. They speak with Adrienne Matthews about what they’ve achieved and what’s coming next.

W

hen Scottish-born Fionna Heiton arrived in Nepal overland from Tibet 25 years ago with ten dollars in her pocket, she borrowed a bicycle from Nepali local Durga Aran to get to job interviews. It was the start of their long romance. Having worked previously for WaterAid, UNICEF and the British Council, Fionna had the skills and Durga the local contacts to eventually establish First Steps Himalaya, a charitable trust, to dramatically improve early education in rural areas of Nepal and help the local communities in which they operate to increase their resilience.

From a small village north-east of Kathmandu, Durga was the youngest of eight children. As with most local adults, his parents had no concept of the value of education. “I was shocked to see how unstimulated the young children were, particularly in the rural areas,” says Fionna. “While parents worked in the fields, their babies would spend the day in baskets with whoever was available to keep an eye on them, given nothing except the most basic care. Consequently, children were walking and developing late and with no basic life skills. If they ever did get to a school, they were con-

16

fronted by a filthy classroom with virtually no resources and often no teacher. Education just isn’t valued.”

“Any teaching that took place involved rote learning so the children never learnt how to think and analyse, horrifying in a country where 84% of families live in rural, often extremely remote, communities dependent on subsistence farming for survival,” says Fionna. “It makes them terribly naïve and easy fodder for companies from Middle Eastern countries who entice them to work overseas in often appalling and dangerous situations that many don’t survive.”

Durga had dreamed of going to school but instead, at age six, he was sent off to look after a sister’s child. By the time he eventually reached a classroom there were no resources and rarely a teacher. His life became one of working in restaurants in Kathmandu until he met Fionna.

By 1998 Fionna and Durga were a couple and in 2002 their twin babies were born. “I kept seeing references to New Zealand and the pull was strong enough for us to emigrate here,” says Fionna. “It turned out to be an

excellent decision because from here we have been able to grow a strong and effective charity that promotes early childhood education and better schools in a way that would have been impossible if we were based full time in Nepal with its lack of resources and high level of corruption.”

First Steps Himalaya works so well because of Durga’s close association with Nepal where he spends up to five months a year ensuring the charity’s plans are being actioned effectively. “We started with building one small childhood centre in Sangachok, two hours north of Kathmandu, near Durga’s home village,” explains Fionna. “We were then approached by a Scottish rotary club from where I come from who offered to raise money that enabled us to extend our work to support improved education in five nearby government schools. We were over the moon.”

In 2015, First Steps Himalaya had almost completed the building of a teacher training centre in Nepal when the apocalyptic 7.8 earthquake hit. With devastation everywhere and thousands of people killed, it was some time before Fionna and Durga knew if their centre had survived. Miraculously, due to having been built using an eco-friendly and inexpensive earthbag building system, it was one of the few buildings to remain undamaged.

Children from Shree Jana Jyoti School.

As the projects grow, Fionna and Durga are training other project administrators so the charity is assured of a way forward long-term with less reliance on its founders. “Durga and I have no immediate intention to retire but need to ensure that this important work keeps going beyond us,” says Fionna.

The charity depends entirely on donations as well as revenue earned from the ‘Beyond the Clouds’ Himalayan tours they run. Their first corporate sponsor, Auckland’s Court Construction Limited, not only raise money for the organisation but also travel as a team to Nepal, paying their own way, to construct the buildings. “Thanks to them, thirteen more classrooms have been built, along with a teacher training centre,” says Fionna.

The arrival of Covid brought with it a chance for Fionna and Durga to finally have some extended time together in New Zealand and to re-evaluate their main priorities for First Steps Himalaya. They made the decision to concentrate their efforts going forward on teacher training. “It is the most effective way to improve education as quickly as possible,” says Fionna. “With the help of brilliant local Nelson teacher Nicky Crawford, we have created a practical teacher training programme in contemporary child-friendly teaching methods.

We’ve already trained 295 teachers, have 31 schools actively involved in the programme and another 17 soon to join. The most exciting development is a brand-new training centre just being completed which will enable us to train many more teachers across a range of levels on a regular basis. The centre is full of natural and recycled training resources, which inspire teachers to create their own nurturing learning environments.

This is the way for our education projects to be spread far more widely and benefit many more children, families and communities.”

Durga and Fionna established First Steps Himalaya to improve education in Nepal.

The secret to First Steps Himalaya’s success is the hands-on approach that underpins it. “Many charity organisations make the mistake of throwing money and goods at countries like Nepal without making sure there are really sound people and systems in place on the ground to manage those,” says Fionna. “It has been heartbreaking over the years to see so much wastage of donations that have arrived in this part of the world and ended up trashed or unused. We, on the other hand, are meticulous about managing every aspect of what we do so there is no waste and everything has a purpose. The result is that the Nepali families we work with are increasingly understanding of the value of education and the need to do things in an organised and respectful way.” firststepshimalaya.org beyondtheclouds.org.nz 17

The grand pianist Colleen Rae-Gerrard has built her career becoming an expert on the same type of piano that Mozart and Beethoven played. Now Nelson audiences and students can enjoy her talent.

Story Adrienne Matthews | Photos Tessa Jaine

E

ighty-five years young, concert pianist Colleen Rae-Gerrard coaxes sounds out of the pianos she plays as exquisitely now as she has throughout her more than seven-decade career as a professional musician.

Learning the piano from the age of five, she really wanted to be a singer, and at six joined 1ZB Radio’s singing group the Thea Sunbeams who performed live on air. “My father was a well-known bass baritone singer in Auckland so I received plenty of encouragement,” she says.

With the ability to memorise seemingly inbuilt, she played her first concert at seven. “I still wanted to be a singer though,” she says. Her parents decided if she passed her Grade 5 piano exam, she could have singing lessons from the great Sister Mary Leo, Kiri Te Kanawa’s voice teacher, and that spurred her on. “As soon as Sister realised I was fairly accomplished on the piano she had me accompanying other singers.”

From age fifteen Colleen began to win piano competitions. “That really changed my attitude towards the piano,” she says. “I started to practice properly, realising I could play better than I could sing.”

At nineteen she began lessons with much-respected piano teacher Dorothy Davies, who became a lifelong friend and mentor. “She was a dynamo of knowledge and her teaching took me to another level,” says Colleen.

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While at university she supported herself by teaching and is very grateful that in those days students were actually paid an allowance to attend universities. “It was marvellous because I could afford to go to concerts which really helped further my musical knowledge,” she says.

Meanwhile, Sister Mary Leo had her accompanying the likes of Nelson-born opera singer Dame Heather Begg who went on to perform with Placido Domingo and Jose Carreras. “Accompanying such excellent singers really helped hone my abilities,” says Colleen.

Moving to Wellington at twenty-one she was soon undertaking live solo broadcasts for the NZ Broadcasting Corporation along with occasional performances with the NZ Symphony Orchestra. “Once I was due to play a live broadcast at 7pm and the door to the studio was locked. We broke in just in time to play at seven sharp,” she laughs.

“By this time, elderly ladies were introducing me to rival male pianists because they thought it was time I married. In those days women were expected to give up work after the wedding and there was no way I was having that nor let anyone take my place in the profession.

Fortunately, I soon met my first husband Ron Gerrard who, as an accomplished musician himself in the Royal NZ Airforce band, completely understood the challenges of performing and touring that would be in my future. He was delighted that a five-week concert tour

with Irish singer Michael O’Duffy paid me the enormous sum, at the time, of forty pounds a week from which I financed our wedding,” she laughs The couple’s two children, Kate and David, duly arrived on the scene and at 39 Colleen set off for Vienna to study with the great piano maestro Paul Badura-Skoda, the children being looked after in England by their grandparents after Ron returned to his work in New Zealand.

“I boarded in a house in Vienna that Beethoven had lived in and would travel back and forth between there and England. I loved Vienna and adored train travel because it was such an easy way to get about and also meet lovely people. I learnt German by talking to fellow passengers. Trains run in my family. My grandfather was a railway engineer and helped build the Nagpur to Bengal railway in India. My father was born in 1899 as the project was completed and named after it.”

“A few years ago, my son David escorted me back to Europe and was astonished at the number of people carrying instruments on the streets of Vienna. It is full of

In 1992 Colleen was engaged as a full-time lecturer and accompanist to the Voice Department of the Canberra School of Music which had recently been taken over by the Australian National University. She remained there until 2004. “It was a wonderful experience,” she says.

“We produced some outstanding operas and concerts and Michael was employed as a sound engineer thanks to his exceptional expertise and years of international experience,” she says. Throughout the years there Colleen also undertook a number of concert tours across Australia with some outstanding musicians.

Colleen is a world expert on the Forte Piano, the instrument played by Mozart, Haydn and Beethoven, and was fortunate to have one built for her which has travelled back and forth with her across the Tasman. “It is magical to be able to hear the same sounds those great composers would have heard as they were creating their masterpieces,” she says. Having established a Forte Piano course in Australia in 1993, she was called back to teach it part-time from 2011 to 2020.

So many memorable events have happened throughout Colleen’s illustrious career. There was the time when the Vienna Boys Choir arrived in the country without their pianist and she was called in to accompany them at less than twenty-four hours’ notice. There was the time too when she coached actress Holly Hunter for her

“Music has a wonderful healing effect, and I am so privileged to have had a life filled with the joy of it.”

Colleen Rae-Gerrard performing at the Nelson Women's Club.

musicians and during my times there I loved attending concerts and operas that cost no more than the price of a cup of coffee. I particularly fell in love with the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace where my favourite composer Mozart sat as a child on Mary Antoinette’s knee.”

In 1979, Colleen met Michael Grafton-Green who was a recording engineer/producer who had worked at Abbey Road Studios on the Beatles’ Sgt Pepper’s and Abbey Road albums and recordings of the great opera singer Maria Callas, amongst many others. “We were both happily married to other people but very good friends and made many LP recordings together, a number of which are available on Spotify,” she says.

Thirty years after their first meeting they fell in love and married. “I was extraordinarily fortunate to have him in my life for fourteen more wonderful years before he died,” Collen says.

role in the film ‘The Piano’. Holly, although a fine pianist already, hadn’t played on such an old instrument as the one required for the film. “She was brilliant to work with and did a beautiful job,” says Colleen.

A few years ago, it was time for Colleen to leave her life in Canberra and return to New Zealand where she could be closer to her children and grandchildren. Despite suffering a stroke and heart attack along the way, she recovered well and has continued her musical career, recently establishing a programme at NCMA teaching ‘Piano for Older Hands’. “I have been blessed with the most wonderful musical career and it has always been in my nature to want to give something back and this is a way I can encourage people who have played instruments earlier on in their life to find their love for playing again,” she says.

“Music has a wonderful healing effect, and I am so privileged to have had a life filled with the joy of it.”

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ABC’s of being a grandparent, where do I start?

For all grandparents there are steps you can take that help develop a long and successful relationship with your children and grandchild. It is important to establish some ground rules before you start and think about what it is you want to bring to your grandchild’s experience being with you. Here are some starting points, many of which are explored further in the book Grandparenting Grandchildren.

•

Know what the child’s parents want. Discuss and make clear what role your grandparenting should take. Respect their decisions on child rearing, as they have the ultimate responsibility. Know the boundaries and give advice only when it is asked for, but offer help in any way. Talk to the parents about their rules for their child. Consistency is important for children: they need to know the behaviour limits and the rules they need to follow. Enforce agreed positive and negative consequences for behaviour.

•

Childproof your home, so that your grandchild has the freedom to explore, move and experience the world without you constantly worrying about their safety or the safety of your possessions.

•

Try to do a variety of age-appropriate activities with your grandchild to build experiences and memories, instead of showering the child with gifts.

•

Allow a slower pace, giving the child time to feel the experience, reflect and express emotions without being rushed. Make sure there are quiet periods among the busy ones and for those still having a daily nap, make sure there is a comfortable and darkened place for sleep.

•

Share the things you love to do with your grandchild, while at the same time being absorbed in their interests, thus learning about each other.

•

Take your grandchild outdoors. If you have a big backyard, make it safe enough for your grandchild to play in and explore. Gardens are great places to build cubby houses and ‘secret places’.

•

Head out to the park, zoo or beach for some adventures and memories. Nature walks can provide lots of things to talk about and have been found very helpful in reducing stress and anxiety.

Expand activities to games as they get older, so they learn how to be a good sport and play fairly.

•

Find some unusual things to do and provide rare possibilities to build experiences and memories.

•

Read to them, as almost all children love being read to. It’s great for bonding. Show your grandchild there are many alternatives to TV, computer games, etc. Visit the local library and borrow books.

•

Communicate. Listen to your grandchild and encourage them to open up. Tell your grandchild the family history. Share interesting and funny events about their own parents when they were young. This is a great way to weave a tapestry of shared experiences for the whole family.

•

If there is more than one grandchild, carve out one-on-one time, perhaps when the younger grandchild is sleeping; don’t use this time for chores, earmark it as special time for the older grandchild.

Creating a strong, loving bond with your grandchild is something you will never regret. Helping them engage in, and enjoy, lifelong learning is a special gift that grandparents can also bring to that relationship, and the good news is you don’t have to wait until your grandchild is attending school to start building readiness for learning and life success.

Within the book Grandparenting Grandchildren you will find lots of reasons to (and ideas that help you) provide your young grandchild with the kinds of activities that stimulate and build brain structures that support not only physical and emotional development, but a keen and curious mind that is motivated to explore and learn.

They will then be one of an ever-decreasing number of children who are developmentally ready for school and who find learning easy and fun from the day they start.

Now wouldn’t that be great?

This is an extract from the book, Grandparenting Grandchildren: New knowledge and know-how for grandparenting the under 5s (Exisle Publishing) by Dr Jane Williams and Dr Tessa Griggs. RRP $32.99.

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22

Historical tales

Rostrevor Estate Richmond (which is now Oakwood’s Retirement Village) D W Calder Dec 1897. Nelson Provincial Museum, Tyree Studio Collection: 180169

Richmond’s grand country estate Story Amy Russ

T

he historic homestead of ‘Rostrevor’ is cited as one of the region’s oldest surviving colonial homes. Initially thought to have been built for Franics Otterson in 1843, an extract from the November 29, 1879, edition of Colonist newspaper states that the land named ‘Rostrevor’ by the Otterson family was simply ‘uninteresting paddocks bounded by gorse’ until Mr Canning built the villa residence.

Francis and Jane Otterson established a life in Nelson Tasman when they purchased 100 acres of land in the area now known as Lower Queen Street. Francis was a prominent merchant who became very active in local politics. He acquired the land in 1843 and christened the estate ‘Rostrevor,’ paying homage to his hometown of Roscommon in Northern Ireland. Upon the tragic death of Francis Otterson in 1854**, the land was sold to Charles Canning who, according to the 1879 article, began landscaping in 1871, and built the homestead now known as Rostrevor, ultimately creating what was described as one of the ‘prettiest country estates in the district’.

Over the years, Rostrevor Homestead played host to a tapestry of owners. Captivated by its rustic charm, Dr. Boyd made it his haven in 1900. Then came the Norris family, followed by racehorse owners, the Hartley’s. Esteemed local physiotherapists Bev and Gray Fish added their chapter by nurturing their family within its grand walls, before potter Justin Gardiner called ‘Rostrevor’ home. More than just a dwelling, ‘Rostrevor’ was an embodiment of versatility, evolving into a sanctu-

ary and at one time serving as a hospice and a haven for those in need. The sprawling estate, with paddocks, stables, barns, and sheds, etched countless memories into the hearts of locals over the years, each weaving their stories into the very fabric of the homestead.

In 1984, ‘Rostrevor’ embarked on yet another journey when it was acquired by developers from Wellington and earmarked for what is now Oakwood’s Retirement Village. In 1987 the once grand old home was purchased

by Mr and Mrs Armstrong and sectioned into two pieces for transportation to its new property in Ngatimoti.

There, ‘Rostrevor’ continues to stand as a monument to history, a living relic from a time long past.

A remnant of the vast estate now lies in the form of a massive stump on lower Queen Street near the entrance to the A&P Showgrounds. Planted by Francis Otterson from a pocketful of seeds supplied by Mr Barnicoat around 1840, this once belonged to an entire grove of Tasmanian Blue Gum trees, which affectionately became known as the Otterson Gums. The giant sentinels that once graced the land were felled, but its stumps remained a playground of sorts for local children to climb and sit atop of as they watch the world go by. The last surviving, towering behemoth with roots entrenched in history, succumbed to the passage of time after experts discovered Brown Heart Rot, and it was felled in 2005 due to safety concerns. Only a single stump remains as a poignant relic of the estates former glory.

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Buying?

Selling?

Leasing?

Renting?

Think NELSON • 60 Rutherford Street • 03 545 6100 STOKE • 506 Main Road Stoke • 03 547 5279 RICHMOND • 203 Queen Street • 03 544 2900 MOTUEKA • 102 High Street • 03 528 4001 BLENHEIM • 30 Alfred Steet • 03 578 3366 PICTON • 56 High Street • 03 573 6166 www.summit.co.nz

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Dream big for your tiny home B

ringing over thirty years of building experience to the family business, Simon Whittaker and son Arron first established The Tiny House Company from their Wakefield location three years ago after watching the tiny home popularity grow. A strong and viable option for those wanting to downsize or even expand on their existing property, the duo are able to cater to whatever your needs, whether it be a fully self-contained home, off the grid tiny home, or a sleepout or a studio office for working from home.

Tiny houses offer affordability and versatility, providing an alternative to the competitive housing market for homeownership. “We truly feel it’s the way the future is going,” says Simon. “There is a real demand for these small homes in terms of their affordability and versatility. A lot of people don’t realise how liberating it can be to downsize and live with a small footprint – and much smaller bills! We can collect a lot of clutter over the years, but do we really need it all? You need to be inventive and cleverly utilise the space to maximise storage. We pride ourselves on our innovative solutions to help create a feeling of space and comfort.”

Providing a customer focussed and flexible individualised service, the Tiny House Company team are dedicated to creating quality builds for ultimate client satisfaction. “It has been three years since we started the business and it has been an interesting journey, meeting clients with different needs and tastes and working with them to bring their dreams to completion. I feel the main difference with our company that sets us apart from others is our flexibility and listening to what the customer wants, together with high quality workmanship. We get real satisfaction from seeing our clients happily settled in their tiny house and planning their new life.”

The team make a great pair, with a perfect blend of expertise and enthusiasm. “We are good at thinking ‘outside the box’ to solve challenges and turn people’s dreams into reality. We are a hardworking and honest team, and we look forward to building you a tiny home you will love,” says Arron.

With six quality designs to choose from and a range of completion choices from ‘shell only’ to turn-key and custom builds, The Tiny House Company can help to create a bespoke home you can be proud of.

Visit the website to view plans and prices, and contact Simon or Arron for a free consultation. thetinyhousecompany.co.nz 25

What’s On for November December 2023 Date

Event

Venue

Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 2-3pm

Device Advice

Stoke Library

Thursdays, 2-3pm

Device Advice

Elma Turner Library

Thursdays, 9.30-11am

Device Advice

Age Concern, Nelson office

Thursdays, 10-12pm

Library Knitters

Elma Turner Library

Fridays, 10-12pm

Tea and Talk by Age Concern

Elma Turner Library

Friday, November 24, December 29, January 26, 10-12pm

Telehealth

Elma Turner Library

Every second Saturday, 3-4pm

Luna the Therapy Dog

Elma Turner Library

Mondays until December 4 and restarting January 15-26, contact Ange 021 790 415

Fitness and Fresh Air, a movement group involving walking and using the gym equipment

Saxton Outdoor Gym Equipment

Thursdays until December 17, restarting January 15-22, contact Ange 021 790 415

Fitness and Fresh Air, a movement group involving walking and using the gym equipment

Tāhuna Outdoor Gym Equipment meeting at Tāhuna Community Hub, Muritai Street

Fridays until December 8, restarting January 19 to February 23, contact Ange 021 790 415

Fitness and Fresh Air, a movement group

Botanical Reserve

Saturday October 14 – Saturday November 1, (Saturdays only)

Fa’alapotoga Tagata Samoa Kirikiti Tournament

Saxton Field

Saturday 11 to Sunday 12, November 10-4pm

Nelson Motorhome Show

Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park

Sunday, November 12, 1-3.30pm

Sunday Craft Club (pop-up card making)

Elma Turner Library

Until Sunday November 19

Nelson Suter Art Society’s Spring Exhibition

Suter Art Gallery

Friday November 24 – Sunday January 14

Nelson Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival

Nelson Christ Church Cathedral

Saturday November 25, 7.30pm

Whirimako Black-Aotearoa’s undisputed soul diva

Theatre Royal

Saturday November 25, 7.30pm

Nelson Symphony Orchestra: Exuberance

Nelson Centre of Musical Arts

Sunday November 26, 9.30-4pm

The Great Christmas Market

Founders Heritage Park

Sunday November 26, 2-3pm

Live Music Session ‘Teatree’ storytelling and musical magic

Elma Turner Library

Friday 1 – Sunday December 10, tickets from Theatre Royal

The Complete History of Nelson Abridged The Professional Theatre Company

Founders Heritage Park

Saturday December 2, 9-5pm

Shred Like a Girl Enduro downhill bike racing info@ nelsonmtb.club

Nelson MTB Trails

Sunday December 3, 7pm

The Sweet Caroline Tour – A Tribute to Neil Diamond

Theatre Royal

Sunday December 3, , 1.30–3:30pm

Umbrella Market

1903 Square

Thursday December 7

Nelson Jazz Club

The Boathouse

Sunday December 10, 1-3pm

Nelson Santa Parade

CBD

Wednesday December 20, 11am

Blackcaps v Bangladesh international one day cricket

Saxton Oval

Saturday January 5

L.A.B. and Sublime with Rome, New Zealand’s hottest band alongside the Californian legends live in action

Trafalgar Centre

Wednesday 8 December to Wednesday December 13, 10.30am

Opening Doors: Arts Council Nelson

Refinery Artspace

Saturday 20 – Sunday January 21, 12-5pm

Summer Kite Festival

Neale Park

Monday February 12, 10 –11am

Tai Chi

Victory Square, Nelson

Monday February 19, 10–11am

Tai Chi

Botanical Reserve, meet at Milton Street next to clubhouse

Thursday February 22, 10–11am

Spi Poi

Isel Park, meet in front of Isel House

Friday February 23, 10–11am

Tai Chi

Werneth Reserve, Atawhai, Gipps Street, meet near playground

Thursday 1 - Saturday February 10

Adam Chamber Music Festival

Nelson Centre of Musical Arts

For many other events see It’s On Nelson - itson.co.nz

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Three months on and going strong eBus OnDemand is Stoke’s new bus service. Replacing the Stoke Loop, the OnDemand service goes further and more frequently. Users can order their bus using the OnDemand app, or by calling Nelson City Council Customer Service team on 03 546 0200.

Spanning from Marsden Valley, to Monaco, Annesbrook to Saxton and everything in between. Passen-

gers can order their bus between 9am to 3pm and travel anywhere within the zone. Free transfers within one hour mean that passengers can take the OnDemand service to a major bus route and get their next journey for free, connecting them to Nelson or Tasman. To download the app, search ‘eBus OnDemand’ in the App Store.

Have you got your Bee Card?

The Bee Card is a prepaid card that makes traveling on the bus easier!

It’s a faster, and cheaper way to use the eBus. Passengers tag on and tag off their bus with the e-reader system automatically adding any concessions, and zones to their trip.

Online. Order online and have it posted to you free of charge.

How do I get a Bee Card?

There are two ways to get a Bee Card.

• Nelson and Tasman Libraries

In person. Obtain a Bee Card from your local customer service point.

• Nelson City Council • Tasman District Council • Wakefield and Mapua Four Square

Our riders share their thoughts Three months into Nelson Tasman’s updated bus service, we caught up with some passengers at the Nelson bus depot who shared with us what they love most about the new service.

Liz is thoroughly enjoying our local bus service.

Peter Murdoch uses the bus nearly every day.

For Kayle Stevens, the new eBus is a lifeline.

Utilising it several times a week, from Richmond to attend her place of work in central Nelson. “It’s so easy,” says Liz. “I don’t have to worry about parking issues, and having a Super Gold Card makes a big difference as it means I don’t have to pay a thing!”

Liz finds herself using the service more and more, jumping on a bus to enjoy a coffee with a friend, or for a trip to Richmond Library. “It provides a great sense of freedom and it’s good to have a service that stretches across our region.”

She jumps on at Waimea College and travels to town for her studies. Peter doesn’t have a driver’s license so finds the new bus the cheapest option to get to regularly.

She no longer has a car and lives alone, so relies on the bus to get from Richmond to Nelson for her to run errands, make appointments, or for her general shopping.

Peter feels it’s important to lower her carbon footprint.

“I like how it’s more eco-friendly and more buses drive more often,” Peter says. “Also, the convenience and that it goes to more places than before.”

What she likes most about the buses is that they run more frequently than they used to. She has also been enjoying how comfortable the rides are, and the price is definitely something to celebrate for Kayle.

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Providing the very best in surgical care to the people of our region

Manuka Street Hospital is Nelson Tasman’s only accredited, private specialist surgical hospital, with skilled surgeons and state of the art theatres and equipment. We provide the speciality and care you deserve.

36 Manuka Street, Nelson Phone: 03 548 8566

www.manukastreet.org.nz

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Unlocking better sleep As we age, our sleep patterns and needs change, often leading to various sleep issues. Sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, and addressing these problems is crucial for maintaining a high quality of life. Patricia Pataki from PP Therapy shares some easy-to-follow principles to help catch those Z’s.

Defining sleep hygiene What exactly is sleep hygiene? Sleep hygiene refers to a set of habits and practices that promote healthy sleep patterns and contribute to getting a restful night’s sleep. These practices are essential for creating the optimal conditions for your body and mind to wind down, relax, and rejuvenate during the night.

Here are a selection of sleep hygiene tips, which may be worth testing out if you aren’t following them already: 1.

Stick to a schedule Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps to regulate your body’s internal clock, which in turn will help you to fall asleep more quickly and easily at night. No more tossing and turning at bedtime!

2. Create an optimal sleep environment A tranquil sleep space with a comfortable mattress and pillows, a dark and quiet room, and a comfortable, slightly cool room temperature (1620 degrees) is ideal for a good night’s sleep.

3. Watch your diet Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime. These substances can disrupt your sleep patterns. If you are sensitive to caffeine, avoid consuming caffeinated beverages after noon or try eliminating it altogether by switching to decaf alternatives.

4. Switch off Avoid electronic devices with bright screens before bedtime. The blue light emitted from screens can interfere with the body’s production of melatonin, which is our sleep-inducing hormone.

5. Exercise regularly Doing physical activity (even just 5-10 minutes of walking each day) can promote better sleep, especially if you complete your workout at least a few hours before bedtime.

6. Wind down Engage in relaxation techniques before bed with calming activities, such as: reading, deep breathing or meditation.

Incorporating these practices into your daily routine may take some effort, but the dividends they pay in the form of improved sleep quality are well worth it.

With good sleep hygiene, you can harness the full potential of your nightly rest and wake up each day refreshed, energized, and ready to take on the world.

Patricia Pataki is a board-registered psychotherapist and counsellor, working in private practice.

She has offices in Stoke and Nelson Central. pptherapy.co.nz

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Live the life you desire We all want to be free, feel fulfilled and live the life of our wildest dreams.

But each day we live with limiting beliefs, fears and negative thought patterns that keep us from living our best life. Life coach Marisa Gundermann-Lunai says we have the power to break through obstacles that stand in the way.

W

hen taking statistics into consideration, the odds are that the last phase in life (50 +) is much longer than one might expect, so it is imperative to make sure to enjoy every minute of it.

Most people conduct their lives according to an invisible and unwritten “society life map” that includes the major milestones set out for them in specific periods of their lives.

The map contains three major stages and looks more or less something like this: Phase 1: Children start school at the age of five, they then move to intermediate and later college.

Phase 2: Transitioning into work, university, or apprenticeship.

Phase 3: Mostly dedicated to work, career and finding a partner, getting married, and possibly raising children together.

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The script, however, seems to end roughly by the time people hit 50.

What happens then?

For many this means uncertainty, whether they are aware of it or not. With the uncertainty comes a loss of direction and possibly a diminishing purpose.

Often this can result in a spiral of mental health issues like mood swings, anxiety or even depression.

Even though not experienced by everyone, this stage is commonly known as “midlife crisis”.

When taking into consideration the physical changes people are experiencing (menopause and andropause) and the changes occurring parallel in their external lives (i.e. kids leaving the nest), this phase could be compared to the teenage years. A phase of enormous change.

This chapter is one of great transformation and transition, yet incredibly challenging and oftentimes misunderstood by those not going through the motions at the time.

To move through this phase swiftly and come out the other side an energized, enthusiastic person ready to embrace the next chapter, it is a great idea to look at it from an analytical perspective and one that allows to highlight the positives in the situation: As already pointed out, the midlife change is a transition and can be broken into three significant stages:

Everybody gets to be young, but not everyone is lucky enough to grow old.

1. The ending of something 2. The messy middle experience 3. The beginning of something new No matter which of these phases you currently might be experiencing, it is the perfect time to reflect, think and refocus; letting go of things that you have outgrown and inviting the things that you enjoy. It is the time in life when people have the chance to hit the reset button and plan the rest to pan out exactly the way they have always dreamed of, using the advantage of a good amount of life experience in the decisionmaking process.

Planning is most important at this stage, because it will help to move forward with passion and is the catapult for making those dreams come alive.

But where to start with the planning?

The best starting point is to look to the future.

It is a great idea to get a journal out and contemplate the following: • What will life look like in five years from now in terms of your physical and mental health?

• What will be experienced in the next five years that brings great joy and pleasure?

• Is there anything you have been putting off?

• Looking back at your childhood, was there anything that sparked enormous joy, or the feeling of freedom that has possibly been lost and can be reignited?

Lastly, it is a good idea to create a small routine, such as the Four M’s every morning. This exercise can really help in a time of transition as it gives stability and purpose: 1. Make your bed 2. Move your body 3. Mindfulness 4. Music There will be hurdles and limiting beliefs along the way, in which case it is a good idea to engage a life coach into the process.

Life coaches are professionally trained to help overcome those obstacles. The principle between a sports coach and a life coach is much the same, both are there to help bring out the best in people.

Life doesn’t end here, there might not be a template for this part onwards, but that makes it even more exciting. The world is every one’s oyster, and everybody gets to be young, but not everyone is lucky enough to grow old.

• Is there an activity that feels purposeful?

Now is the perfect time to plan that dream life, because no matter the age, you can endeavour to live the life of your dreams!

Once this new life map has been drafted it will be easier to look at the smaller milestones and figure out what action steps are needed to achieve the overall goals.

kokoncoaching.co.nz

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Healthy & happy

Fitness Coach & Nutritionist

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Healthy & happy

Some of this year’s Beyond the Face exhibition participants pictured at the recent launch.

People connecting people D

edicated to giving a voice to older adults, Age Concern Nelson Tasman is celebrating some of the life stories of its members in a current exhibition.

Beyond the Face is on show at Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre in Stoke until late December, and the agency is encouraging everyone to pop along and read some fascinating stories – everything from surviving WWII, to travelling the world, or running marathons!

This is the third year of Beyond the Face, and challenges people to look beyond a person’s current appearance and see them as a whole person with fascinating lives, colourful experiences and wonderful achievements.

Team member Miriam Clark, who writes the stories, says: “It’s a wonderful way in which we can uncover some of the rich tapestry that makes up our members and celebrate them.”

the reach of Age Concern in the rural parts of Tasman, working alongside other agencies and organisations in the district to ensure its older adults are safe, supported and connected.

If you’d like the opportunity to read these stories, you can also buy the new 2024 calendar, with each month capturing a story and image that’s been featured in Beyond the Face for the past two years. The calendars, priced $20 each, are available in the Nelson office on Bridge Street, the Richmond office on Oxford Street, and the new Motueka office in the iSite building on Wallace Street.

Finally, in the run-up to the summer season, Age Concern are running their Christmas Care Packages campaign once again – asking the public for donations of non-perishable goods, toiletries and treats. The team then create gift packages and distribute them around their clients and members. Last year they gave out 70 packages which are such a wonderful gift to older adults, who really appreciate them.

New team member Tanya Charles is settling nicely into her new role as the Elder Abuse Response Advisor for the Motueka and Golden Bay areas. She started in early October and is relishing the opportunity to widen

Age Concern 03 544 7624 ageconcernnt.org.nz 33

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The NBM Asian Street Eats team.

Happiness in every bite B

ringing authentic Asian cooking to the region, Simply Asia Food Group owner Bunga Krataitong has expanded the family business with the opening of the newest destination eatery, NBM Asian Street Eats.

The latest venture has been open for a month and is an acronym for Nutritional excellence, Beneficial foods and Memorable experiences. NBM Asian Street Eats offers a perfect balance of easy lunch options for all the family and the cafe offers a range of options from their bespoke single-serve buffet cart along with their delicious menu options including Thai soups, appetizers, signature dishes, boat noodle options, curry, rice and noodle options, and stir frys.

“NBM is a change from our other restaurant experiences that we provide and is a cool new spot for the whole family. It is casual dining, easy to walk-in and enjoy your experience. Just sit back and relax and let your taste buds travel,” says Bunga. “What we want to achieve here is delicious, easy food, at affordable prices. We want people to have an option for a quick and easy lunch meal that is not too pricey. It is a destination place to bring the family for a delicious lunch.”

Owning nine eateries across Nelson and Marlborough, the food journey began for Bunga and her husband Nuttavut Rodsienglum over a decade ago, with each restaurant having its own flair and flavours.

NBM Asian Street Food is straightforward and doesn’t need to be fancy, she says, but is delicious everyday eating. “The NBM vision was always a dream for Nut-

tavut, so this is a legacy to him with all of his favourite recipes.” Gracing the walls of the café is a nod to her late husband and his hometown province in Thailand in the form of a mural designed in Thailand, especially

by Bunga.

“Every recipe served was created by Nuttavut so his presence will never go, people enjoy their meals because he made them delicious. Nuttavut was always happiest when he was in the kitchen and his memory stays alive because of his food. I have had many people ask me ‘why take so much on?’ My reply to them is ‘why can’t I?’ I know I can do it. I learnt from when Nuttavut was unwell how much I can trust my team and how well things can run on their own. My sister Wanlapa has been tremendous help. The team are like family and rallied around when things got hard.”

Complementing the business they built together, Bunga has also taken on a low-sugar, low-carb sauce company, Joknal, making diabetic-friendly jams, sauces, toppings and condiments. Established by John and Alison Howie in Marlborough over 20 years ago, Bunga purchased the business in Nov, 2022. Now distributed word-wide, Bunga says the product will be available both online and at NBM Asian Street Eats.

NMB Asian Street Eats 105 Hardy St, Nelson nbmasianeats.co.nz

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Reader recipe

Hokey Pokey Muffins

Pauline Sinclair

My grandad, Ernest Wilfred Harvey, was building a clinker boat in Blenheim and there was an elderly lady who made him these muffins for morning tea.

He enjoyed them so much he asked for the recipe for his daughter (my mum) so she could make them for him. Mum passed the recipe onto me before she died and said it was a secret recipe and I wasn’t to share it with anyone, but I would really love to share them with Nelsonians.

INGREDIENTS 2 tbs butter 1 tbs golden syrup 1 egg 1 c milk ½ tsp vanilla essence 2 C flour 4 level tsp baking powder ¼ C sugar ¼ tsp salt METHOD Melt butter and golden syrup. Beat egg and milk.

Add vanilla and mix all liquid ingredients together.

In another bowl mix all the dry ingredients together.

Mix liquid ingredients into the dry ingredients.

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Hokey Pokey Mix (can also be doubled!)

INGREDIENTS 1 C walnuts chopped finely 1 tbsp butter melted ½ C brown sugar 2 level tsp cinnamon ½ C walnuts METHOD Mix all ingredients together. Add half this mixture to the main mixture, then spoon into patty tins.

Put the remainder of the hokey pokey mix on top of each muffin and bake in oven at 180C until cooked.

10-15 minutes.

The Bookshelf

Stella Chrysostomou of VOLUME reviews four new books.

volumebooks.online

Bird Life

Te Wehenga: The Separation of Ranginui and Papatūānuku Mat Tait

$38.00

$38.00 Allen & Unwin

Anna Smaill

Te Herenga Waka University Press

Dinah has arrived in Japan to teach English. Her apartment is dismal, her job mediocre, but here, in this foreign city far from her suburban New Zealand upbringing, she thinks she can escape and forget about her twin brother. Yet everywhere she looks, he is there. Dinah is moving through the city streets on the edge of tipping into despair. Can she thrive here or will she be subsumed by her grief?

Yasuko, a teacher at the same school, is polished and precise. From her elegant wardrobe to her observant eye, she is an enigma to her colleagues. They are wary but captivated by her charm and daring, while she holds herself aloof. For this world is of little importance to her: her concerns are centred on her adult son, Jun, and the powers within her that connect her to another world, a natural world.

When Jun disappears, Yasuko feels compelled to take Dinah under her wing. She is convinced that the girl can help her reconnect with Jun. This unexpected relationship will take them both on a journey. For Yasuko, she will release herself from her burdens by embracing her connection with the natural world and allowing the voices to fly free. For Dinah, she will follow, as she has always done, without understanding the peril or the pleasure.

Bird Life examines the forces that allow us to slip from one world to another, the relationship between the internal and external, and the tentative membrane that exists between genius and madness.

As with Anna Smaill’s acclaimed previous novel, The Chimes, the writing is taut and evocative, with subtle symbolism and rhythmic beauty. The magical realism hints at Murakami and Allende, while the quotidian observations keep the novel in the here and now, creating a satisfying dynamic in this absorbing story.

A stunningly illustrated bilingual telling of the Māori creation story, memorably bringing it to life as a new generation struggles into the light. This dark and beautiful book was named the Margaret Mahy Book of the Year at the 2023 New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults.

Local author.

Gordon Walters Francis Pound $90.00 Auckland University Press

This beautifully produced illustrated book gives deep insight into one of Aotearoa’s most distinctive artists, tracing his development from the 1930s through remarkable experimental works to the signature koru canvases of his New Visions exhibition of 1966. Pound illuminates Walters’s approaches, influences and contexts, including international Modernism and minimalism, and Pacific and Māori art.

Commune: Chasing a utopian dream in Aotearoa Olive Jones $40.00 Potton & Burton A compelling inside view of the dreams, ideals, joys, discoveries, difficulties and interpersonal politics that traced the arc of the community established in Graham Valley near Motueka in the 1970s as an experiment in collective rulefree living, self-sufficiency and liberation from mainstream norms and expectations. What worked, and what did not (and why)?

37

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38

Gardening

Growing great tomatoes In Your Garden with Philippa Foes-Lamb

H

i and welcome to my first gardening column for Best Life. I’m looking forward to inspiring you with seasonal gardening tips and more.

At this time of year, garden centres are literally bursting at the seams with summer crops such as tomatoes, capsicums and chillis, plus the usual brassicas and a myriad of leafy greens. This can be quite daunting, especially if you are new to growing edible crops.

To help ensure success it’s important to look for young, healthy, compact seedlings. Signs of stress to look for are tall stems plus tough, leathery or dull leaves. The latter applies to lettuces, silverbeet and many other leafy greens too.

I love growing tomatoes and currently have eight different varieties planted in 25 litre grow bags. A few of my favourites are grown by Evandale Nurseries in Southland – ‘Tasty Tom’, ‘Midnight Feast’ cocktail, ‘Sweet 100’ cocktail, ‘Brandywine Pink’ and ‘Black Krim’.

If you’ve already planted your tomatoes, they will be putting on good growth now. Tomato varieties are either indeterminate or determinate. Indeterminate tomatoes keep producing new growth and set fruit all season, so they need to have their laterals removed.

Lateral growth forms between the stem and an estab-

lished leaf. If these are not removed your tomato may turn into a triffid which can hinder ripening. Indeterminate varieties include most heirloom types plus Sweet 100 and other cocktail tomatoes.

Determinate varieties produce flowers, set their fruit and then stop growing. It’s important not to remove the laterals from determinate varieties, which include ‘Tasty Tom’ and ‘Roma’, as this will lessen your crop.

Whitefly can be a problem in the vegetable garden or greenhouse during summer. Marigolds are perfect companion plants because whitefly detest their fragrance. They also help deter other pests.

NIWA has predicted a dry, windy summer with fluctuations in temperature. Mulching your garden now will help conserve precious moisture. It can also lessen the chance of vegetable crops bolting to seed. I’ve always used a thick layer of red clover straw but this year I’m trialling wool mulch. So far it is proving to be invaluable – it’s holding the moisture in well and deterring weed growth. Pea or barley straw is fabulous too.

If you would like information about your tomato varieties or have a gardening question, please email me at heirloomperennialplantnursery@gmail.com.

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40

Arts & crafts

A Simple Garden Wreath Wreaths have been made since the days of the Roman and Greek empires and at various times throughout history have symbolised status, victory and religious occasions.

They are increasingly popular these days as a welcome decoration on the door of homes leading up to Christmas.

Adrienne Matthews shares how you can make your own.

Wreaths can be made in numerous styles using any mixture of fresh, foraged and faux materials. Follow these instructions to make a simple one using plants that are readily available.

A wander around your own garden will likely find you many other plants that will work just as well.

Step 1: Make a circle using some kind of vine. It is preferable to make your wreath bases in winter when most vines are without leaves, but if you are starting a wreath project from scratch strip the leaves off before you begin. Make your initial circle then just keep on wrapping and twisting in more vines until you have the size and thickness you want. Suitable vines are pandorea jasminoides, grape, clematis, willow, honeysuckle, wisteria, pohuehue, hops, birch and virgina creeper.

Step 2: Gather your materials.

Used here left to right: Laurel (bay), rosemary, alder branches (leaves removed), aquilegia (granny’s bonnets) seed pods,queen anne’s lace, wheat, macrocarpa.

Cut out any brand-new leaves as they will shrivel. Other materials easily available at this time are camellia leaves, conifers, succulents, magnolia, salal, nandina and thyme.

Step 3: Make two similar bunches using your gathered materials and tie them separately with string.

To finish: Place them against the wreath facing in opposite directions.

Tie in the middle with a piece of ribbon and add a bow that you like.

Your wreath is ready to hang.

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ith the rising costs of energy and the ever-increasing cost of living, achieving energy efficiency is not only an aspiration but a necessity. At the forefront of this transformative movement stands Absolute Energy, one of the most trusted companies in New Zealand’s insulation industry. They are committed to creating energy-efficient homes through the power of insulation.

Energy efficiency is not just a buzzword, it’s a practical and sustainable way to lower household expenses and create a living space that’s warmer, drier, and healthier.

Absolute Energy’s commitment to this cause is unwavering. With over 20,000 homes insulated across the South Island, and covering the Nelson, Tasman, Marlborough, Queenstown and Dunedin areas, they’re on a mission to turn Kiwi homes into warmer, healthier and more energy efficient ones.

Insulation, often overlooked, is the silent hero that underpins energy efficiency in a home. It functions as a thermal barrier, sealing gaps and cracks in the building’s structure to prevent temperature fluctuations.

This barrier helps create a thermal envelope around your home that makes it easy to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures throughout the year.

The value of having an energy-efficient home extends far beyond mere comfort. A well-insulated home retains warmth during winter, reducing the need for excessive heating. In the summer, insulation keeps your

home naturally cooler, making it less likely you’ll need to constantly run a heat pump cooling. Ultimately, a home that uses less energy leads to more sustainable living, with a reduced carbon footprint and greater financial freedom.

Beyond financial advantages, energy efficiency significantly impacts your health and well-being. Insulated homes are drier and less prone to moisture-related issues such as mould and mildew growth. By maintaining stable indoor temperatures, insulation creates a healthier living environment, combined with ventilation, reducing the risk of respiratory issues and allergies. Fewer doctor visits and medical expenses become a reality, allowing families to enjoy a higher quality of life.

In a world where sustainable living matters more than ever, Absolute Energy is your trusted partner in the quest for a warmer, drier, and more energy-efficient home. For them, it’s not just about insulation; it’s about the lasting impact on families, businesses, and communities. It’s about making a difference, one well-insulated home at a time. That’s the Absolute Energy way.

Absolute Energy 0800 423 454 146 Pascoe Street, Nelson absoluteenergy.co.nz

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44

Citizens advice

Digital Safety B

ack in 1899, the US Patent Office’s commissioner reportedly said “I’ll soon be out of a job. Everything that can be invented, has been invented already.”

What would we do without all the digital gadgets contributing to our lives today? They create documents, access information, send and receive messages, stop you getting lost, play your favourite music, buy things, plan overseas trips, find nearby petrol stations and turn on the heating before you get home. Even pacemakers can ‘talk’ to a heart-monitoring computer somewhere else in the world which automatically sends an electronic, rhythm-correcting ‘blip’ if required!

Sadly, all this connectivity creates opportunities for scams, misinformation, urban myths and criminal activity. With advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) frauds are becoming harder to spot. Just like considering the risks before wandering down a dark alley all alone, think about personal and financial safety when you’re on-line. Simple things like not clicking on an email link or opening an attachment unless you know the sender, and checking out a website or an on-line seller’s reviews before buying are the basics.

If you use Facebook, never participate in those tick-box quizzes to see what kind of fruit or other crazy thing you’d be. The questions covertly collect random personal information like birth dates, name of your pet and so on – which can be used to work out your password. Netsafe recommends doing a ‘who is’ search on a company’s website address to check if they’re real.

Suspect something’s a scam? scamwatch.co.nz pro-

vides information on what to look for, current scams, how to report a suspected scam, and what to do if you think you’ve been scammed. Criminals know the carrots to dangle to get you interested! Remember the old saying, ‘If it’s too good to be true, it usually is’!

Do you use your phone/watch to access bank accounts, pay bills, and contact your friends? You protect your laptop, and its just as important these devices also have a strong password to protect all that information (and your friends’ details!) getting into the wrong hands.

Websites like Google’s ‘Find My Device’ have free apps to help you track a lost/stolen phone or watch quickly, locate your teenager via their phone, and other interesting options.

Amazed by something you’re told or emailed by a friend? Check it out on an ‘urban hoax/myth’ website (NZ Police or Verifythis), or by writing a simple sentence about it in Google. Apparently reversing your pin number at an ATM doesn’t alert police that you’re being forced to make a withdrawal, and the US Patents Commissioner never said he’d lose his job!

Next time you wonder if something is for real, contact Citizens Advice Bureau Nelson Tasman. Our service is free and confidential.

03 5482117 nelsontasman@cab.org.nz cab.org.nz

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Set in the beautiful Waimea Inlet on Best Island, Richmond. We offer everything required for a great day of golf in the sunny Nelson Tasman region.

46

What’s happening NELSON GENTLE YOGA WITH CONNIE Nelson Hearing House, 354 Trafalgar Square. Tuesdays, 10.30am – 11.45am. Thursdays, 5.30pm – 6.45pm. 03 547 5331 or 027 297 6147 (Connie). connie@jnc.co.nz NELSON ANTIQUE BOTTLE AND COLLECTABLES CLUB First Tuesday of each month, 7.30pm, Broadgreen House, Nayland Road, Stoke. Informal, informative, friendly and fun.

Bring along your treasures.

03 545 2181 (Judy) randjpittman@gmail.com.

NELSON CITY PROBUS CLUB Welcomes men and women as new members. We meet on the second Thursday of each month (Feb through to Nov) at 10am, at The Nelson Golf Club, 38 Bolt Rd, Tāhunanui. Our programme varies monthly. nznelsoncitygroup@gmail.com.

NELSON ELECTRONIC ORGAN AND KEYBOARD CLUB Meetings first Sat of each month (except January) at 1.30pm, Stoke Baptist Church Hall, Main Road, Stoke. Listeners and players are welcome. Visitors $2, afternoon tea provided. 03 540 3288 (Valerie).

NELSON HINEMOA CROQUET CLUB Saltwater Lane (off Halifax St, beside squash and tennis courts).

Give croquet a go: friendly supportive club, for competition or

just fun. Coaching and equipment available. Individuals or groups catered for. 03 546 6227 (Alan) or Nettie nettiebarrow@gmail.com NELSON MALE VOICE CHOIR Rehearsals: Reformed Church, Enner Glynn, Monday, 6.45pm.

03 548 4657 (Dick).

NELSON ORCHID SOCIETY INC. Cultural talks, repotting demonstrations, visiting speakers, problem plants discussed.

Meeting each month at the Le Cren Room, Broadgreen Historic House. All welcome.

027 818 1458 (Gaile).

NELSON PETANQUE CLUB Wednesday and Sunday 1.15pm.

Behind the Trafalgar Park grandstand, off Trafalgar Park Lane. Boules and tuition provided.

03 546 6562 (Roger or Shirley).

NELSON SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING CLUB If you’re interested in fun, fitness and friendship join us on Thursday nights (Mar–Nov) 7.30pm, at Haven Hall, 34 Collingwood St, Nelson. You don’t need a partner, no charge for your first visit.

021 173 9642 (Kelly).

NELSON PHILATELIC SOCIETY Stamp collectors meet second Tuesday of the month (summer) 7.30pm. Second Sunday (winter) 1.30pm, Stoke School. 03 547 3554 (Ross). nelsonphilatelicsociety@ gmail.com

NELSON SCRABBLE CLUB Meet every Wednesday, 7pm at the Nelson Suburban Club/Nelson City Club, Kinzett Terrace, Nelson.

No charge for playing, but please buy a drink at the bar. Beginners welcome and we will train you to play competitive Scrabble.

03 545 1159 (Tony).

NELSON SENIOR CITIZENS SOCIAL INDOOR BOWLING CLUB Come and join us for social indoor bowls and a cuppa every Wednesday and Friday afternoon, 1.15pm–4pm. Beginners welcome.

Trafalgar St Hall in the City.

03 547 6066 (Erea).

NELSON SOCIAL DANCE CLUB Meets the second Saturday of the month, live music, 7.30pm–11pm, venue advertised on itson co.nz and in community papers.

Ballroom, Latin and New Vogue.

Members $10, non-members $15.

027 647 8827 (Bernard).

NELSON TABLE TENNIS CLUB Saxton Stadium, Monday and Friday 9am–12pm.

03 544 8648 (Glenda).

NELSON-WHAKATŪ MENZSHED We are a group of mostly retired men who enjoy getting together, making stuff, contributing to the community and generally having a good time. Meetings Tuesday and Thursday from 9am, 236 Haven Road, Nelson. 027 608 0377 (Robert). robertshade@hotmail. com. menzshed-nelson.org.nz

NELSON 50+ WALKING GROUP Come along for a walk with a friendly group, every Tuesday at 9.45am. Location varies each week, we visit all sorts of interesting places. Bring lunch to eat on the walk.

027 496 5724 (Haydn).

NEW ZEALAND SOCIETY OF GENEALOGISTS Nelson Branch, meetings held monthly at either St Barnabas Church or Elma Turner Library.

67 Trafalgar St, Nelson: Mon, 1pm–4pm. Thurs, 10am–4pm.

Sunday, 2pm–4pm. All welcome. nelson@genealogy.org.nz.

PHILOSOPHY GROUP Meets second and fourth Monday of each month, Melrose House Café, 10am. We are a lively group of thinkers, exploring topics suggested by participants. We always have fun. Newcomers and drop-ins are welcome, come along to contribute or just listen and learn. Text Zoe 027 974 1758.

POP-UP PSYCHODRAMA Monthly group psychodrama is a lively spontaneous method of exploring personal, political and community issues. Find spontaneity and find new ways to respond to old situations in your life. Led by experienced psychodrama practitioner, no acting experience required! Third Wednesday of the month, 7pm– 9.30pm at Victory Community Centre, 2 Totara St, Nelson.

027 276 5992 (Ali). awatersong@gmail.com.

Your hearing is unique. For personalised hearing care, talk to Tasman's independent audiologist, Ed Thynne.

Local. Independent. Trusted.

“Ed is very attentive and patient and makes us feel like we are his special clients” -M.D, Motueka

171a High Street, Motueka. 03 526 8221 www.edthynnehearing.co.nz

47

What’s happening STOKE TĀHUNANUI LADIES CLUB Meets third Wednesday every month. 03 547 5238 (Pauline).

Super Seniors (65+) meets third Friday each month, 10.30am– 12.30pm. All Saints Church Foyer, 30 Vanguard Street, Nelson.

Suggested koha of $10, includes morning tea, either a speaker or activities, and a light lunch.

03 548 2601 (Gillian or Lisette).

POTTERY Nelson Community Potters, 132 Rutherford Street, Nelson.

Social group; Thursday mornings or Twilight Pottery; Mondays, 7pm–9pm. Free to members, $7 casual. 03 548 3087 (Annie) or 03 548 1488 (Elizabeth). ncpotters@gmail.com

Cambridge St. All sessions $5.

03 544 3955. stadium@sporttasman.org.nz HOPE– RANZAU WOMEN’S INSTITUTE First Wednesday of each month, 1.15pm. Age Concern Hall, 62 Oxford St, Richmond, visitors welcome. 03 544 5872 (Brenda).

LUNCH ON THE HILL Looking for food and friends?

Church on the Hill, 27 Dorset St, Richmond offers coffee and lunches. 11.30am coffee, lunch served at 12pm, first and third Tuesday of each month.

RICHMOND BRIDGE CLUB Sessions Monday and Thursday, 1pm (be seated by 2.45pm).

Wednesday 7.10pm (be seated by 7pm). For lessons ph 027 407 0274 (Leigh).

VICTORY SIT AND BE FIT Thursdays 10am–10.45am, at Anglican Church, 238 Vanguard Street, Nelson. 03 546 9057 or 03 547 1433 (Shirley).

RICHMOND CLUB 60 Senior adventures (under 60s welcome too) active fun, social recreation with weekly planned outings and activities. Meets every Wednesday, 9.30am at Sport Tasman, Richmond Town Hall,

RICHMOND CREATIVE FIBRE GROUP Meets at Birchwood Hall, Richmond Showgrounds. 9.30am every second, third and fourth Thursday of the month. Learn to spin/knit/weave/crochet/felt and meet others who enjoy working with fibre. 03 544 3315 (Sandra).

POTTERY Tutored classes at Craft Potters, 202 Ranzau Road, Hope. All welcome. No experience needed. info@craftpotters.org.nz PROST-FIT Exercise class for men living with prostate cancer. All levels of ability and great camaraderie. 021 547 811 (Leigh). leighsdream@gmail.com

VICTORY SENIOR SUPPORT Cards and games. Meet every Tuesday at 1.30pm at Anglican Church, 238 Vanguard Street, Nelson. 03 546 9057 (Jan).

RICHMOND BOWLING CLUB Club Waimea – A roll up, Tuesdays 1pm. Bowls provided.

03 544 8060 (Jean).

RICHMOND CROQUET CLUB Join us at 348 Lower Queen St, Richmond. Have fun, learn a new skill. We play both Association and Golf Croquet.

021 958 447 (Rhonda).

RICHMOND SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING CLUB Tuesday evening, 7.30pm.

Methodist Church Hall, Neale Ave, Stoke. 03 544 0902.

C Stanton cstanton@actrix.co.nz RICHMOND TENNIS CLUB Social tennis Tuesdays 9.30am and Saturdays 1.30pm. All abilities welcome. Beside the Badminton Hall, Gladstone Rd. richmondtennisclub.co.nz

SOCIAL CARDS 500 Waimea Lounge A&P Showgrounds. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1.30pm – 4pm. $2 covers afternoon tea, prizes and unlimited parking.

03 544 5563 (Kath).

Add value to the way you live

SIOUX LINE DANCING Wednesday – Club Waimea, Richmond. Beginner Class, 6pm – 7pm. Improver Class, 7.15pm – 8.30pm. 03 528 6788 (Sue). sioux.wilson@yahoo.com.au

TASMAN AQUARIUM CLUB Meetings held second Monday of the month at 7pm. Keeping tropical freshwater, aquatic plants, marine fish and corals. Everyone welcome. 03 544 3116 (Robin).

WAIMEA COMBINED FRIENDSHIP CLUB Interested in making new female or male friends of a similar age and interests? We invite you to monthly meetings, third Thursday of the month 9.45am at Hope Church, Ranzau Rd with interesting speakers, outings and group activities. 021 134 1013 (Claude).

WAIMEA MUSIC CLUB Meets fortnightly on Sundays 1.15pm– 4pm at Stoke Methodist Hall, Neale Ave Stoke. Anyone is welcome to join in with a song or just come along and listen.

03 544 5766 (Pat) or 03 544 9446 (Jim).

STOKE FRESH FOCUS NELSON Mondays 10am–11am at Elim Christian Centre, 625 Main Rd Stoke. Speakers talk on a wide variety of subjects that provide education and entertainment.

A number of series occur throughout the year during term time. All welcome. ffnelson2021@gmail.com or visit Facebook – Fresh Focus Nelson 2021 for news and updates.

NEW small home designs with garage!

Introducing four new Advantage Range plans under 100m2, all featuring garages for added practicality. Perfectly suited as a secondary dwelling or standalone home.

Full range of designs available at versatile.co.nz

Versatile Nelson 03 544 5142 ADVANTAGE RANGE

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Nov / Dec 2023 ACTING UP DRAMA GROUP Meets each Monday 10.30am– 12pm at Whakatū Presbyterian Church Hall Lounge, Upper Songer Street, Stoke. No previous experience necessary!

03 538 0400 (Anne) BENCHREST SHOOTING CLUB Meets every Tuesday at Saxton Field Range, 1pm–3pm.

03 544 7138 (Graeme).

CENTRAL GARDEN CLUB Meets every second Wednesday of each month, 1.30pm, Methodist Church Hall, Neale Ave, Stoke.

Guest speakers and afternoon tea.

New members very welcome.

03 541 8646 (Rob or Lynn).

NGAWHATU BOWLING CLUB 300 Montebello Avenue, Stoke.

Friendly, welcoming club. Roll-ups Thursdays at 6pm and Saturdays 1.30pm. 021 167 3380 (Rachel).

LINE DANCING Routines set to great music. All ages/genders, bring cup and pen, wear soft soled shoes. Free morning tea. Tuesdays: 9.15am beginners, 10.45am experienced.

Warnes Hall, Songer Street, Stoke.

Session times can change.

027 449 1569 (Diane) dianeneil6@gmail.com SENIOR WALKING GROUP Tuesday and Thursday, 9.30am– 10.30am. Walk for the full hour or choose to do the Shape Up class at 10am. Walking and exercises followed by a cuppa. 03 538 0072.

STOKE CENTRAL COMBINED PROBUS CLUB Welcomes both men and women as new members. Join us on the fourth Tuesday of each month (except Dec and Jan) at 10am, at The Stoke Methodist Church Hall.

94 Neale Avenue, Stoke.

03 970 6872 ( Rosemary).

STOKE OLD TIME COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB Stoke School Community Hall.

Every second Sunday, 6.30pm. All welcome to a lovely evening of singing, and musical instruments.

03 542 3527 (Dick Knight).

TAI CHI CHU’AN AND QIGONG Thursday mornings: beginners 10am, intermediate 11am, at Saxton Netball Pavilion Stoke.

03 545 2960 or 027 271 3323 (Anne-Marie).

STOKE TĀHUNANUI MEN'S CLUB A club for active retirees. Activities include a regular monthly meeting with guest speaker on the third Tuesday of every month, plus outings and activities each week.

021 148 2580 (Ian).

WALK DON’T RUN... JOIN WALKING NETBALL! Every Tuesday, 10.45am–11.45am at Saxton Stadium you will see an enthusiastic group of men and women of all ages taking part in this modified version of indoor netball. Tweaks have been made that reduce impact on the body, which means short rounds and

no running or jumping is allowed.

Meet new friends, have some laughs. 0272454416 (Kalyssa). development@nelsonnetball.co.nz STOKE SENIORS CLUB Greenmeadows Community Centre, 391 Main Road Stoke.

03 547 2660 (Karen or Mel). stokeseniors@xtra.co.nz Regular activities at Greenmeadows.

HOPE HOPE MIDWEEK BADMINTON CLUB Wednesday mornings.

03 541 9200 (Carolyn).

HOPE SOCIAL INDOOR BOWLS CLUB Hope Recreation Hall, Tues 1.30pm – 3.30pm. $3 per session.

We are a fun, social group catering for everyone. 03 544 3116 (Robin).

NELSON VETERANS TENNIS CLUB Hope Tennis Courts, every Thursday. 03 547 6916 (Leona).

FRESH FOCUS NELSON Mondays 10am–11.am at Elim Christian Centre, 625 Main Road Stoke. Speakers talk on a wide variety of subjects that provide education and entertainment.

A number of series occur throughout the year during term time. All welcome. Email ffnelson2021@gmail.com or visit our Facebook – Fresh Focus Nelson 2021 for news and updates.

VARIETY ENTERTAINMENT CLUB OF NELSON A social club for all entertainers.

Variety concert held 1.30pm– 4.30pm on the second Saturday of every month between March and October, Whakatū Presbyterian Church Hall, 271 Songer St, Stoke.

03 547 4301 (Ken Holmes) or 03 547 3231 (Robyn Walsh).

SONGBIRDS LADIES CHOIR, Fri morning Rehearsals in Stoke.

New female singers welcome. If you enjoy singing and can hold a tune, please give me a call. Ph: Mary 035448232 or 0211334805

MĀPUA MĀPUA CRAFT GROUP Enjoy simple crafts, sharing, caring and morning tea. Plenty of materials and guidance. First and third Fridays of the month 10am –12pm (term time only).

Hills Community Church, supper room. $3 per session. 027 741 8575 (Julie Cox).

WEAVING GROUP Meets fourth Tuesday of each month, 10am in each other’s homes. 03 528 4935 (Barbara).

MAPUA FRIENDSHIP CLUB. Indoor bowls, 1st & 3rd Mon. Mapua Bowling Club rooms. 2pm, Bring a plate of afternoon tea. Lots of laughs. Ph: Val 03 540 3685.

THE COASTAL STRINGERS Boat Club rooms, Māpua Wharf, Fridays 1.30pm – 4pm.

03 540 3010 (Colleen)

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QUICK CROSSWORD 1

2

HOW MANY?

3

4

5

7 9

8

10

12

6

11

_T_N_

14 16

17 18

20

21

19

22

24

23 25

How many five-letter words can you make?

The answers are words widely known; no words can begin with a capital; no hyphenated words.

Today there are 13 possible words

13

15

26

29

PUZZLED

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Numbers have been substituted for letters. Use the letter(s) given to work out the rest of the puzzle.

28

30

31

SUDOKU

Across 1. Camera’s light source (9) 7. Respond (5) 9. Japanese meal (5) 11. Sticky substance (3) 12. Prostitute (6) 13. Heart disease (6) 14. Large spoon (5) 15. Deadly (6) 17. Assistance (3) 20. Some, or all (3) 22. European country (6) 24. Thespian (5) 25. Pungent root vegetable (6) 27. Feeling of sickness (6) 29. Perish (3) 30. Cowboy’s welcome (5) 31. Wipe out (5) 32. Absolutely essential (9)

Down 1. Soldier’s dugout (7) 2. Partly open (4) 3. Savage (6) 4. Salt water (5) 5. Conjurer (8) 6. Soldier’s dugout (5) 8. Jailbird (abbr) (3) 9. Of the sun (5) 10. In good health (4) 16. Having no feel for music (4-4) 18. An impressive display (5) 19. Punishment (7) 21. Reverberate (4) 22. Caress (6) 23. Command (5) 24. Pale (5) 26. Tune (3) 28. Long tale (4)

Puzzled

Fill the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9

How Many atone, stand, stank, stent, sting, stink, stint, stone, stony, stung, stunk, stuns, stunt.

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Quick crossword

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Across: 1. Flashbulb, 7. React, 9. Sushi, 11. Goo, 12. Harlot, 13. Angina, 14. Ladle, 15. Lethal, 17. Aid, 20. Any, 22. France, 24. Actor, 25.

Radish, 27. Nausea, 29. Die, 30. Howdy, 31. Erase, 32. Necessary.

Down: 1. Foxhole, 2. Ajar, 3. Brutal, 4. Brine, 5. Magician, 6. Stoat, 8.

Con, 9. Solar, 10. Hale, 16. Tone-deaf, 18. Array, 19. Penalty, 21. Echo, 22. Fondle, 23. Order, 24. Ashen, 26. Air, 28. Saga.

Sudoku

The challenge is to rearrange a crossword which has been broken into 25 sections. One letter has been given to get you started. Work out which 3x3 square fits in with that letter and write in the letters.

You can also shade the black squares if you find it helpful.

After completing the first 3x3 area, work out which square joins on to partmade crossword, jigsaw it, and continue until It’s you have a completepart crossword.

JIGGERED B T I O W

B E C A A T T

C R A C

A E C A N K T

M A R A A U L B

I B E N D C A

T O W R S

A L M I N A N T I C S A

A N A M D O B I

W A I D

N A T S E A K

U R K H A S E I T L I G T L

I J U U M

I N A G E

P L U O R T H Y

V Y Y A M S A I S C

N E G N U A

E Y

L B E

N S E H T B

P N Y O

I

S C R H H

L Y

O

N S E H T B

S C R H H

T H Y

S A

N E G N U A

I S

B

write in the letters. You can also shade the black squares.

After completing the first 3x3 area, work out which square joins on to it, and continue until you have made a complete crossword.

QUICK QUIZ

QUICK B CROSSWORD

1. In which year was the BNZ sold to an Australian bank; Annelise Coberger won New Zealand’s first Winter Olympic medal; and Shortland Street went to air?

2. Who played the ‘deaf, dumb and blind kid’ in the film Tommy?

3. There are 12 signs of the Zodiac: how many end with the letter s?

4. The Prime Meridian lies on how many degrees longitude?

5. What is the collective term for a group of owls?

Across 1. Apiarist (9) 6. Muzzle (5) 7. Emcees (5) 9. Playthings (4) 10. Norway lobsters (6) 12. Aft (6) 14. Self-satisfied (4) 17. Kit out (5) 18. Firearm (5) 19. Pupa’s case (9)

Quick Quiz 1. 1992, 2. Roger Daltrey, 3. Five – Aries, Taurus, Sagittarius, Aquarius and Pisces, 4. Zero, 5. Parliament

V Y Y A M C

A G E

A E B O N S C

The challenge is to rearrange a crossword which has been broken into 25 sections. One letter has been given to get you started. Work out which 3x3 square fits in with that letter and

Jiggered

M

Down 2. Dark wood (5) 3. Flying device (4) 4. Moral principles (6) 5. Mopes (anag) (5) 6. Place (7) 8. Roof tile (7) 11. Prize (6) 13. Affect emotionally (5) 15. Civilian clothes (5) 16. Killer whale (4)

1

2

3

4

6

5

7

9

8

10 11

12

13

14

15

16 17

18

19

Across: 1. Beekeeper, 6. Snout, 7. Hosts, 9. Toys, 10.

Scampi, 12. Astern, 14. Smug, 17. Equip, 18. Rifle, 19. Chrysalis.

Down: 2. Ebony, 3. Kite, 4. Ethics, 5. Epsom, 6.

Situate, 8. Shingle, 11. Trophy, 13. Touch, 15. Mufti, 16. Orca.

L

Y

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U R N S M A R I J U A N A E E A A U M D S M O B I L I G H T B U L B E L B P I N E A T I N Y G N U B O N S A I C S O W O A S L Y E L I N S C R I B E B E N T H N D C A H C A R A C Y E W A V Y B E C A L M A I Y A M A A C A N K T D C A T T I C S K H A N A I P L U T O O R W R I T T S N T H Y S T L E A K A G E

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