Wild Tomato May 2016

Nelson and Marlborough’s locally owned magazine /

ISSUE 118 / MAY 2016 / $8.95

GODZONE New Zealand’s top adventure race hits town

Interview Paul Morgan Old Ghost Road your next epic mountain bike mission Stylefile Winter comfort fashion trends

Kahurangi Estate

GrapeRide

Beer for Duck

Herb & Lemon Quinoa Tabbouleh

CLUNY

ESPRITNATUREL

Cluny is the new Cotto d’Este collection, which offers all the intense mineral beauty of the typical stone of Burgundy in six impressive colours, from dark grey to a luminous magnolia. Cluny captures all the natural charm of a historically important stone on extra-thick porcelain stoneware; extra large tiles that are always perfectly flat, beautiful, resistant and antibacterial (thanks to integrated Microban technology).

Cluny is available with three different surface finishes: Adouci, which is soft and delicately opalescent; Sablé, slightly rough to touch, nonreflecting and with a more rustic appeal; Layé, with its scratched texture, ideal for exterior floors where slip resistance is an essential requirement.

CARLTON RICHARDS & TRISH DRUMMOND

TILES

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BATHROOMWARE

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spaziocasa.co.nz | Wakatu Square Carpark | NELSON (03) 546 7832

homewares • gifts • furniture • interior consultancy

12 John Wesley Lane, Richmond (off Queen St, behind Avanti Plus) • Phone: (03) 544 1515

Nelson and Marlborough’s magazine

Features Issue 118 / May 2016

22 22 GODZone a regional winner

T

he best adventure racers in the world were stunned by the scenery and the support from locals – sometimes pyjama-clad.

Penny Simpson backgrounds a race that almost didn’t happen.

28 A positively haunting ride

28

O

ver the past four months, Westport has seen an influx of flash bikes on shiny SUVs, driven by toned tourists in lycra. Sophie Preece looks at the impact of the Old Ghost Road mountain bike track on a region that needs some good news.

32 The interview: Paul Morgan

A

fter growing up in Wellington, rough-necking on oil rigs and travelling the world, he joined Wakatu Incorporation, rising to become Chairman

4

38 32

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Columns Issue 118 / May 2016

56

INTERVIEWS

20 My Big Idea Nelson City Councillor and Mayoral candidate Pete Rainey wants to connect Nelson City to the waterfront

72

82 Up & Coming Rosie Older is studying Business Administration at Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology

STYLE FILE Styled by Kate Donaldson and edited by Justine Jamieson

74

44 Style News Fashion and interior design industry news

46 Women’s Fashion Winter comfort trends. Styled by Kate Donaldson and photography

by Ishna Jacobs

54 Beauty Gentle Nature. Justine Jamieson tries the new Erban spa facial

55 Interior Products Copper accents warm up the latest monotone homeware trends LIFE

56 My Home

A secluded fishing lodge with spectacular views of the Matakitaki Valley. By Phil Barnes

62 My Garden

In praise of public gardens.

By Christo Saggers

64 My Kitchen

Nicola Galloway’s Herb & lemon quinoa tabbouleh

65 Dine Out

Maxwell Flint experiences Asian fusion at Lemongrass in Richmond

6

66 Wine

Kahurangi Estate has some of the oldest vines in Nelson.

By Phillip Reay

46

67 Beer

Duck hunting season prompts Mark Preece to match duck and beer

ACTIVE

CULTURE

70 Travel

76 Music

Sophie Preece takes a magical mystery tour of Wellington with her family

72 Adventure

Forrest GrapeRide raises money for Kiwi Can in Marlborough.

By Sophie Preece

74 Motoring

Geoff Moffett is impressed by the Subaru Outback’s six-pack

75 Boating

Nautical musical politics.

By Steve Thomas

Pete Rainey says step up and face the music

78 Film

Eddie the Eagle, A Winter’s Tale

By Michael Bortnick

REGULARS

8 Editorial 10 Where do you read yours?

12 Events 14 Snapped 80 Quiz & Trivia

Blueberries – one of nature’s superfoods known for reducing blood pressure and stress levels along with a raft of other health benefits, it is the perfect name for a technology support business!

BlueBerryIT is that business with offices in Nelson and Blenheim specialising in delivering Microsoft’s Office 365 solutions to commercial clients across Te Tau Ihu. In today’s fast-paced world of technological change, our role is continually changing as new ways of working emerge that allow people to access their information from anywhere – freeing businesses from the traditional boundaries of the office environment and allowing them to spend more time engaging with their customers while balancing the commitments of work and home.

In addition to being one of New Zealand’s leading providers of Office 365 solutions, which has been recognised by invitation to the exclusive ‘Microsoft Champions Club’, BlueBerryIT has been recognised by the Nelson/Tasman Chamber of Commerce in 2008, 2011 & 2014 with awards for Emerging Business, Service Excellence and Mid-size Business success.

Of course all of this means nothing if we do not maintain our focus on the needs of our clients by delivering services based on traditional values and the overarching principle that our customers are the reason for us being in business.

With a clearly defined strategy of working with like-minded organisations that want to get the most value out of the technology on offer, BlueBerryIT can help your business move forward in this exciting digital world.

Contact us today BlueBerryIT Nelson Office 1/60 Achilles Ave Nelson

BlueBerryIT Blenheim Office 12 Sutherland Terrace Blenheim

03 548 4923 www.blueberryit.co.nz

7

Editorial

B

It is a somewhat bittersweet feeling.

On the one hand I shall miss editing WildTomato hugely.

On the other, I’m super-excited to be heading home after 10 wonderful years in New Zealand

ig news: this is my last issue as editor of WildTomato. I’m delighted to have appointed the very excellent Lynda Papesch to sail the good ship into the future. I’d hoped to retire on my 100th issue but 101 not out it is.

The reason for stepping down is that my family and I are moving back to the UK. Why would I want to leave paradise to live in a cold, damp, crowded island and get blown up by terrorists? Fair point. Well, there are three reasons: First, it’s my home, and home is home. Secondly, I have a business opportunity I want to pursue there, and third, I love nothing better than an adventure.

Organising the logistics of leaving highlights how things accumulate in your life. I came to New Zealand unmarried, no kids, with just a rucksack of clothes.

Ten years later I’m departing with one wife, three kids, one dog, one magazine and a 40ft container of stuff.

It is a somewhat bittersweet feeling. On the one hand I shall miss editing WildTomato hugely. On the other, I’m super-excited to be heading home after 10 wonderful years in New Zealand. Fortunately, as the proprietor of WildTomato it will be my painful duty to escape the gloom of the British winter at Christmas and head to Nelson. Strictly work, you understand. I shan’t enjoy myself one little bit.

Relinquishing the editorial reins is going to be very hard. I shall miss the pressure of the monthly deadline. The absolute knowledge that the magazine must be at the printers by a certain date is a wonderful stimulant to creativity. But I look forward with immense interest to reading WildTomato under Lynda’s direction.

She will no doubt bring fresh ideas and enthusiasm to the role, and I shall try not to meddle too much.

Unlike myself, Lynda is an actual journalist, which will make a nice change for readers after my amateurish attempts at editing. She worked at the Marlborough Express for many years and more recently worked at the Nelson Mail. Evolution rather than revolution will be the order of day under her watch.

I must thank everyone who has helped WildTomato over the years.

The number and variety of people whose paths I’ve crossed is amazing.

There are far too many to name here, but you know who you are, and you have my sincerest gratitude.

So goodbye from me. It has been an honour and a privilege editing WildTomato.

Thank you.

JAC K MA RT I N

Editor

Advertising Design

Subscriptions

Fashion & Beauty Editor

Advertising Executive Nelson, Tasman & Blenheim

Readership: 38,000

Jack Martin 021 844 240 editor@wildtomato.co.nz Justine Jamieson

Graphic Design Floor van Lierop Klaasz Breukel thisisthem.com Coverphoto by Alex Socci

8

Patrick Connor Phil Houghton

Justine Jamieson 027 529 1529 justine@wildtomato.co.nz

$75 for 12 issues 03 546 3384 wildtomato.co.nz/subscribe Source: Nielsen Consumer and Media Insights Survey (Q2 2014 –Q1 2015)

Publisher

Jack Martin WildTomato Media Ltd Bridge St Collective 111 Bridge St Nelson 7010 PO Box 1901 Nelson 7040 03 546 3384 info@wildtomato.co.nz wildtomato.co.nz

CONTRIBUTORS

OL O H SC D L O v OL O H C S NEW Phil Barnes Michael Business Support Bortnick My Home Film

Klaasz Breukel Patrick Connor Design Ad design

Maureen Dewar Proofreading

Maxwell Flint Dine Out

Kate Donaldson Style File

Ana Galloway Photography

I’m not talking vinyl v digital I’M TALKING ACCOUNTANTS: OLD SCHOOL – focuses on the year that’s already been, meets once a year to discuss the accounts, spends more time processing data, bills for every conversation they have with you.

Nicola Galloway My Kitchen

Ishna Jacobs Fashion Photography

Justine Floor van Lierop Jamieson Design Fashion & Beauty

NEW SCHOOL - acts as a virtual CFO to small business owners, works out what a customer wants and works back from that, meets regularly with their clients with management reports, talks about what is keeping the business owner awake until 2am, uses the latest accounting systems so the accounts are done more efficiently.

New school is the new way - the RightWay.

Call Olivia to discuss how RightWay can help your business.

Geoff Moffett Motoring

Mark Preece Beer

Sophie Preece Adventure Features

Pete Rainey Music

Olivia van Vugt Regional Partner, RightWay Limited Phillip Reay Wine

Christo Saggers My Garden

Steve Thomas Boating

Luz Zuniga Snapped

p: 0800 555 024 m: 027 964 1980 a: Nelson, New Zealand

EARN MORE STRESS LESS

s: www.rightway.co.nz e: olivia.vanvugt@rightway.co.nz

9

W H E R E D O YO U R E A D YO U R S

Letters

Where do you read yours?

The Nana state I write lamenting the potential loss of work gettogethers, Christmas functions and the like now that employers will be held accountable for the actions of their staff at and after said functions. Networking outside office hours often generates an abundance of ideas – good and bad – as well as helping to relieve stress, cement relationships and enhance employer/employee goodwill.

Yes, there is the onus of ’good host‘ responsibility on the employer and that to my mind is where it should end.

People surely must be accountable to a large extent for their own actions. Why should an employer suffer if some muppet decides to swig from a secret hip-flask and then swing from the rafters and hurt themselves?

Or fall off the wharf when relieving themselves? Worstcase scenario is that functions will cease. Another option will be to have those attending sign a disclaimer.

Why have we become such a Nana country ... where anything that might be deemed fun is so tightly regulated and policed that it guts the enjoyment out of it. At age 18 New Zealanders can legally drink and vote. They can marry, have sex and drive at a younger age still. They should therefore be able to make, and be held accountable for, their other actions too, instead of lumping it on to employers. What a rort.

Sue Macgregor

Justin Fletcher reads his WildTomato while sailing round the Northern cape of New Zealand on Noel Eichbaum’s yacht Send your image to info@wildtomato.co.nz ONLY .JPG FILES ACCEPTED, MAX. 1MB

God for a day Buy Local

Please do support the businesses who advertise in WildTomato. Without them we simply wouldn’t have the dosh to craft this magazine for you every month.

If we don’t buy local we will wake up one morning and find that we live in a region that has lost its mojo.

10

If I was God for a day I would hang, draw and quarter parking wardens. Not all parking wardens, mind. Some are reasonable sorts who will give you the benefit of the doubt.

Those I would spare.

But the rabidly foaming at the mouth, quota-filling ones would suffer a hideously painful death in public. Jack Martin

PRESENTS THE

2016

Vote for your favourite cafĂŠ, bar or restaurant today wildtomato.co.nz/dineout Voting ends 31 May 2016

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WHAT TO DO IN MAY

EVENTS

Get out of the house and into this month’s top regional events.

Events May 16 Sun 1 Marlborough Farmers’ Market Come and enjoy the taste of the freshest produce that Marlborough has to offer.

Relax and enjoy locally roasted coffee and brunch while being entertained by talented buskers.

A&P SHOWGROUNDS, BLENHEIM

Sun 1 Nelson Shoe Clinic Half and Quarter Marathon & 5km Fun Run Run on a scenic, fast, flat course around the walkways of Stoke. Ideal for all abilities from beginners and recreational athletes to serious competitors.

SAXTON FIELD SPORTS COMPLEX, STOKE

Sun 1

Wed 4 to Sat 7

Rescue Helicopter Base Open Day

The Hound of the Baskervilles

Come along and meet the crew, grab a sausage, and see all the emergency services from the Nelson region.

Four lucky children will win a scenic helicopter flight!

One hound, one Holmes and the vague smell of damp fur … this is a wonderfully barking spoof! Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s most celebrated Sherlock Holmes story gets a gloriously funny makeover.

NELSON AIRPORT

Mon 2 to Sun 8 Nelson Fringe Festival 2016 The Nelson Fringe is Where Edges Meet. A convergence of theatre artists from Nelson, NZ and the world in a flurry of experimental new theatre works.

Fri 6 Mamma Mia – The Biggest Musical Party of 2016!

The global smash hit musical based on the songs of ABBA. ASB THEATRE MARLBOROUGH, BLENHEIM

REFINERY ARTSPACE, NELSON

Mon 2 to Fri 6 TSB Bank Nelson Festival of Golf This is the third running of this very popular golf tournament. Players come from all over New Zealand to enjoy the friendly banter between old friends and to meet new ones.

VARIOUS COURSES, NELSON & MOTUEKA

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THEATRE ROYAL, NELSON

4 to Wed 25 Nelson Farmers’ Market Every Wednesday, rain or shine, come sample some incredible deals and taste sensations from the people who grew and made the products themselves!

MORRISON SQUARE, NELSON

Fri 13 Catherine Mackintosh & Douglas Mews Duo Sonatas for violin and fortepiano with readings of letters penned by the Mozart family.

ASB THEATRE MARLBOROUGH, BLENHEIM

Sat 14 Saint Clair Half Marathon With gorgeous scenery, unexpected entertainment, delicious tasters and a bottle of Saint Clair wine to celebrate your achievement, running doesn’t get much better than this!

SAINT CLAIR CELLAR DOOR, BLENHEIM

Sun 15

Kelvin Cruickshank Soul Food Passing on messages from people who have died is what Kelvin was put on earth to do.

The best way for Kelvin to be able to put people in touch is through his live show, Soul Food.

THEATRE ROYAL, NELSON

Sun 15

Molly’s Remedy Vibrant, soulful and fabulous, Molly’s Remedy mix folk, country and Irish traditional music with an energetic yet sensitive performance of original songs and re-arrangements.

PRESENTS THE

FAIRFIELD HOUSE, NELSON

Sat 21 to Sun 22 MAMIL (Middle Aged Man in Lycra) One of New Zealand’s most loved actors, Mark Hadlow, stars in this one-man theatre show. Achingly funny and poignant, MAMIL presents the male mid-life crisis in all its lurid glory.

THEATRE ROYAL, NELSON

Sun 22

Sandy Brechin & Bob McNeill A quirky and powerful musical partnership based on fiery renditions of Scotland’s folk music, award-winning original songs and tunes, and irresistible wit.

2016

FAIRFIELD HOUSE, NELSON

Fri 27 Richard Gilewitz: Acoustic Adventures American fingerstyle guitarist Richard Gilewitz returns with a platter of rousing tunes, tales and twitters filled with 6 and 12-string chops and his own quirky humour.

THE BOATHOUSE, NELSON

Sat 28 Sleeping Beauty This ballet closely follows the story line of the famous ballet, with music by Tchaikovsky.

Dancers range in age from three years to mature adults.

ASB THEATRE MARLBOROUGH, BLENHEIM

Vote for your favourite café, bar or restaurant today wildtomato.co.nz/dineout Voting ends 31 May 2016

13

Snapped

WildTomato goes out on the town‌

1 Lustre Collective launch Fairfield House, Nelson P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y A N A G A L L O WAY

1. Stephan Capillon, Karyn Stratford & Anthea Whitlock

4. Maddie Bellcroft

5. Bex Deva & John Dawson 2. Morgan Freedom & Marina Neis 6. Tessa Cochrane & Sally Rees 3. Tania Marsden & Vicki Lawson

2

3 4

5

6 B E N EF IT S O F RE L A X ATI O N : Rel i eves stress , l owe rs b l o o d p ress u re, rel axes m u s cl es , re d u ces te n s i o n , p ro m otes d e e p e r a n d e as i e r b re ath i ng, i mp roves b l o o d c i rcu l ati o n a n d h el p s to co n n e c t yo u to yo u r i n n e r s el f.

A boutique - styled day spa located in a quaint historical par t of Nelson city, steps away from Trafalgar Square, Erban Spa Nelson specialises in relaxation massage, facials and beauty therapies in a modern and serene day spa environment.

We provide advice and follow -up on all of your skin and beauty care needs and tips to help you maintain a healthy, more balanced lifestyle.

14

S NA P P E D

10

7 9 8

11

7. Sharon Wetere, Kathy Basalaj & Eniko Fekete

11. Kate Donaldson

8. Anna Monopoli & John Black

13. Jane Pascoe & Breigh Fouhy

9. Kathy Basalaj

12. Tracey Ruru & Olivia van Vugt 14. Justine Jamieson & Bex Deva

10. Luisa Giacon

813

12

14

FOR THIS MONTH: Book a relaxing treatment either a Bliss Relaxation massage or an Antipodes Aroha Facial (1hr treatment) and receive a fur ther booking of the same treatment at half price.

14 NILE STREET ( O P P. T H E R U T H E R F O R D H O T E L ) NELSON Phone: (03) 548 7972

AU C K L A N D | W E L L I N GTO N | N E L S O N C H R I S TC H U RC H | D U N E D I N

w w w. e rb a n sp a. co. nz

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1 Wine-barrel longboard launch party The Paper Rain Project Shop, Picton PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEN SARTEN IMAGERY

1. Dean Vitale, Midge McCleary, Nick Gerritsen &Barb Speedy 2. Sandie Judge, Kate White, Heather McAlpine & Indigo Greenlaw 3. Mouli Greenlaw, Tika Greenlaw, Indigo Greenlaw & Wills Rowe 4. Kim Lawson & Dominic Harvey 5. Midge McCleary 6. Carina Allen, Paula Somers & Tika Greenlaw

2 4

3

16

5

6 5

7 6

S NA P P E D

7 7. Wilson Fuentes & Indigo Greenlaw 8. Indigo Greenlaw & Wills Rowe 9. Dean Vitale & Midge McCleary

8

10. Midge McCleary 11. Barb Tippet & Michelle Connor

12 8 10

11 9 New Chef, New Menu!

Exciting changes, including: New authentic, thincrust, wood-fired pizzas.

Wed to Sat from 5pm

13 11 Restaurant

Pizza, Paella & Pasta - Refined

Menu & online orders at comida.co.nz or 03 546 7964

17

1

2

Paintbox Gallery launch Buxton Square, Nelson PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUZ ZÚÑIGA

1. Chris Perkin & Angela Nelson 2. Gaile Noonan, Marilyn Andrews & Chris Perkins 3. Cristian & Greta McComb

4. Florencia Berthold & Sarah Arnold 5. Jim Cable, Susan Aucutt & Graeme Skinner 6. Deborah Grigg & Jyoti Phillips

3 5 6

4 “Call Justine to be seen!”

Promote your Nelson or Blenheim business in WildTomato

Justine Jamieson FASHION EDITOR NELSON & BLENHEIM ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

027 529 1529 | 03 546 3387 | justine@wildtomato.co.nz

18

S NA P P E D

7 8 7. Pam McCorkindale & Michael Ny 8. Judith Ritchie & Brett Ellis 9. Marilyn Andrews 10. Paul Kernot, Kenn Butler & Gaile Noonan

9

10 Inspired outdoor living 021 528603 | info@landform.co.nz | www.landform.co.nz

James Wheatley

Award winning design

19

MY BIG IDEA

CITY TO SEA Nelson City Councillor and Mayoral candidate Pete Rainey has had this big idea bubbling away for six years.

It was launched in 2013, but has stalled since. He says the project is overdue for Council leadership and it’s time to make a move.

What is your big idea in a nutshell?

Nelson has one of the most beautiful and under-utilised waterfronts in New Zealand, if not the world. My big idea is to make this area accessible and attractive as a City to Sea Precinct. The Council has purchased key buildings to make this happen. Now we just need to ignite the project with private-sector investment to transform it into a goahead precinct with retail, cafes and recreational facilities. It’s a project that fits with my campaign platforms of fiscal responsibility, bringing people together and making Nelson the best regional centre in New Zealand.

20

Where did this idea spring from?

As I’ve said, we have a beautiful waterfront area, and we have the climate to enjoy it. I’ve lived in Nelson long enough to remember when you could drive your car down to the wharf to watch ships load or bike down with the kids to cast a fishing line. I accept those days are gone, but we can still offer access to the waterfront in a 21st century context.

What’s the area you’re specifically talking about?

It starts at the old Reliance Engineering building, runs past the Customhouse Hotel, the old Four Seasons store, the Anchor building, past the Guytons complex and on to the Aotearoa building.

The Council has bought all these sites and the project is ready to fire. The port company will consider a boundary shift to make space for the cycle and pedestrian way, which removes a real pinch point and allows for some additional parking.

What about the seaward side?

We’ve also had preliminary discussions with Port Nelson Ltd about opening up their sheds down towards the Main Wharf.

This would create even more space for

hospitality businesses in what is one of the greatest waterfront sites in the country.

Can Nelson afford this sort of development?

Can we afford not to push on with the City to Sea Precinct? The Council has spent the money on acquiring the buildings and needs now to ignite the interest of the private sector. There is not a big cost to the Council – it just needs Council leadership. The result will be a huge benefit to locals as an amenity for all to enjoy, and there will be a massive economic boost to the construction sector and then to tourism, which is fast becoming our number one earner. It will provide a real injection of confidence in Nelson.

How far has the concept gone?

Architects Andrew Irving and Jeremy Smith have developed concept plans, and what they foresee replaces tired industrial buildings with some stunning design, while retaining heritage features such as the Anchor building. We’ve done the walkway down the Maitai and people love it. Now it’s time to push ahead with the connection to the sea.

neudorf.co.nz

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MONDAY & TUESDAY - $11 LUNCHES between 11.30 - 2.30

We’ve enjoyed ourselves.

Now it’s your turn.

Cellar door and picnic lawn open 11am – 5pm daily.

Neudorf Road, Upper Moutere. Tel: 03 543 2643

VINEYARDS

Cabinet food – Coffee A la carte lunch 7 days A la carte dinner Wednesday – Saturday Great daily craft beer prices Brewery tours – bottle store Big group bookings welcome

Open 7 days: 7am - 6pm Monday & Tuesday 7am - 10pm Wednesday - Saturday 9am - 6pm Sunday 03 547 0329 660 Main Road, Stoke

21

GODZone

GODZONE

a regional winner The best adventure racers in the world were stunned by the scenery and the support from locals — sometimes pyjama-clad.

Penny Simpson backgrounds a race that almost didn’t happen.

Australian Team Tri Adventure trekking through Stage 3 on the Red Hills towards St Arnaud Photo: Alex Socci 22

The

Tasman region and the city of Nelson were the ultimate winners when GODZone came to town last month. However, as invitations go, it wasn’t the most straightforward for race organisers, 100% Pure Racing, to accept.

GODZone is the largest expedition race in the world.

The event established itself just over five years ago when Warren Bates and Adam Fairmaid decided to re-introduce the sport in New Zealand.

“After a six-year hiatus we felt frustrated that there was no-one really driving the sport here and if any teams wanted to race beyond the ‘weekend warrior’ events, then it was a matter of going overseas to compete,” says Warren.

“Adam had retired but his wife Sarah Fairmaid, my wife Lisa Bates and I were all still racing and thought, ‘Why not bring it back’. New Zealand is the birthplace of the sport, with the world’s best racers, so it was an obvious step, but one that we did not take lightly.”

There have been five editions of GODZone in total. The inaugural event in 2012 was hosted out of Milford Sound. In 2013, GODZone started at Mt Cook in Aorangi National Park, finishing in Queenstown. Kaikoura was the first coastal event for GODZone in 2014, and Lake Wanaka played host in 2015.

The Nelson-Tasman region was considered an ideal location back in 2014 and the race organizers met the Tasman District Council to see if there was an appetite for the world-class event.

GODZone Marketing Manager Margo Berryman says it became clear that financial support was going to be limited.

“Having a greater understanding of what the sport can bring is key to an organisation like TDC getting the bigger picture. The guys we met were pretty straight-up and said the district had a major water scheme to pay for and there simply wasn’t additional funding for this type of event.

So we opted to go to Wanaka that year, with Lake Wanaka Tourism supporting our media programme, which is a crucial step for regional tourism to capitalise on the promotion generated.”

However, Tasman was still on the cards. Nelson-based world champion adventure racer Nathan Fa’avae knew the event would suit the region and was instrumental in convincing race directors to take another look at the area.

“Nathan talked to many people, including private business, on our behalf in an attempt to pull together some support,” says Margo. “In the end, we could see there were very few funding avenues but thanks to a couple of local benefactors, including Nelson Pines, we committed to hosting out of Kaiteriteri in 2016.

It was the right decision from the racers’ perspective but marginal for the event financially.”

Despite being turned down by the Nelson Regional Economic Development Agency, who indicated that because the event was not starting within Nelson city boundaries they couldn’t see any real benefits, Margo says some assistance made a real difference.

“Nelson Tasman Tourism International Marketing Manager Gisela Purcell was fantastic to deal with and managed to provide us with some vehicles for a small group of photographers and videographers, which helped enormously.”

Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve CEO David Ross instantly saw what an international event of this calibre could deliver and provided media accommodation in new beachfront apartments, says Margo. “Kaiteriteri has a clear vision to attract events all year round and GODZone is an example of what can be achieved.”

More than 100,000 viewers followed the race online at

61 teams in the Pure Category took off from Kaiteriteri beach towards Stephens Bay on stage one of the 350km race. Photo: Alex Socci

godzoneadventure.com, a website that delivers innovative GPS tracking of each team out on the course. With news, photos, videos and audio, it makes for compelling viewing.

“We have been inundated with emails and Facebook posts from people of the region saying they got hooked on the coverage,” Margo says. “We showcased many geographical areas that locals had not seen themselves and many have been inspired to get out and see their own backyard.

“I do think it was a missed opportunity for tourism to gain some incredible footage of people recreating across the region for future promotion. We are often told that GODZone ‘People came out of their is too extreme for general houses in their thousands to tourists to understand applaud the competitors on.’ but the folk of Tasman WA R R E N BAT E S , proved that it is, in fact, R A C E D I R E C TO R an event everyone can follow and be excited by.”

As a tourism exercise, GODZone ticks all the right boxes, showcasing the country’s most spectacular national parks and iconic wilderness areas. Warren Bates says the event’s global reputation is off the charts “The international teams absolutely loved the experience and many commented that it’s the best adventure holiday they could ever hope for. Anywhere you go overseas and talk to racers, GODZone and New Zealand is on their bucket list. All they have to do is turn up at the start-line and we do the rest.

“Nelson and Tasman delivered an amazing welcome we will never forget. People came out of their houses in their thousands to applaud the competitors on – something we have not really experienced before and the racers loved it. We all loved it. It’s such a beautiful area for this unique New Zealand adventure.”

23

Where did they go?

M

any varied elements have to be considered when putting an expedition race like GODZone together.

Four-time GODZone winner Nathan Fa’avae worked alongside Race Director Warren Bates to design the 530km course, and his intimate knowledge of Tasman was a real coup for the race.

“The Tasman District offered a diverse coastal twist to the course and every stage had a very special feel to it,” says Bates.

Fa’avae relished the opportunity to show off his own personal training ground.

“What’s good about this region is that the terrain is not extreme or as intense in comparison to other parts of the Southern Alps,” he says.

“It nurtures the athlete, is less rugged and more accommodating, which means racers are not having to battle the extremities so much. They are not being beaten up by the terrain. It lends itself to very enjoyable racing.”

The highlights of the region will remain in the minds of racers long after they have left. Warren says it’s an incredible way to see remote areas.

“The Red Hills trek, with its mineral-rich ultramafic rocks where no vegetation grows, were amazing and quite challenging at times up on the peaks. Mt Owen with its limestone karst rock (Lord of the Rings country) was exceptional.

“Nelson Lakes National Park, with Lake Rotoroa, Lake Rotoiti and the Matakitaki River (grade 3+), created exciting water sections, and the native forest over the Mole Tops was very special.

“I would say the mountain peaks were the smallest we have visited in the past four chapters of the event but the most varied in terms of terrain and geology,” Warren says. “It was a shame not to include caving but the caving committee refused access. Overall, a challenging and very scenic course that was different to anything we have done prior.”

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TOP LEFT: Americans Team Adventure Medical Kits paddle canoes on Lake Rotoroa in the Nelson Lakes National Park TOP RIGHT: Team Paddy Pallin AR from Australia climb a limestone ridge on Mt Owen during Stage 8 of GODZone BELOW: Whitewater canoeing on the Matakitaki River near Murchison All photos on this spread by Alex Socci

Local adventurers produce results

K

Team Yealands Family Wines won the race

Team N’EVEREST

Team Silky

aiteriteri, Saturday April 2. Sixty-one teams line up on the beachfront in readiness for a journey of a lifetime. Having been given course maps only two hours earlier, many competitors were still grappling with the details of a spectacular 530km GODZone course that had 10 stages, five disciplines and travelled through three national parks. Ten more teams eagerly watched from the sidelines in preparation for the start of the new Pursuit category the following day. Race Director Warren Bates had indicated that local teams could have a distinct advantage. “They know tracks and walkways that others won’t. Without Seagate racing it could come down to a dark zone or the smallest of mistakes for a team to slip into first place, so there will be a lot of pressure to overcome the challenges,” he said.

Local knowledge played its role for the first and second teams in both categories, and another six teams had Nelson teammates.

Team Yealands Family Wines took first place. Dan Moore is an instructor at Anikiwa and Dan Busch is from Nelson. Combined with Christchurch adventure racer Sia Svendson and world-class navigator Chris Forne, the foursome made quick time, winning in three days, 12 hours and 44 minutes.

Second-placed Team Swordfox finished in three days, 16 hours and 55 minutes. Members Brent Edwards, Ash Whitehead, Naomi Whitehead and Stu Lynch are all from Nelson. Naomi said at the finish line, “Even when we were biking through Pohara last night there were people out cheering and waving us on in their pyjamas – we loved it.” The four members of Team Silky, who took out the mixed team win in the Pursuit category, are locals and said they wanted to remain friends first and foremost. “It wasn’t until threequarters of the way through that we realised the team was in with a chance,” said captain Stephen Busby. Team Garyanderson.co.nz got their name auctioning the rights off on Trade Me. Members David Ayre, Rhys John and Huw John are from Nelson. Anna Barrett is from Maketu. They finished 13th position. Nelsonians Gilbert Robertson, Robyn Dunmore and Gerald Malcolm joined Ed Steenbergen from Torquay to race as Team Village Cycles. “It seemed like every second car was beeping or waving – it was fantastic,” said Gerald.

Simon Bloomberg and Lachlan Brownlie from Nelson joined forces with Nathan Sturrock and Rachel Baker from Christchurch as Team Greenhorns. Highlights were an encounter with a rather grumpy bull as they trekked up a farm track – which got them moving pretty fast. Team n’EVEREST pursuiters were competitive from the start, quickly overtaking the back of the Pure teams and placing first across the line in the Pursuit Category. Captain Brendan Hickman is a Nelson local, with Anthony Oswald from Taihape, David Howard from Methven and Graeme Ewenson from Dargaville.

Placing sixth in the Pursuit category were Nelson-based Team MD Outdoors. Members Lou Perkins, John Hart, Jared Wadsworth and Tracey Perry were first-time adventure racers and were buzzing about all the homemade signs put out by local supporters at the finish line.

Hometown favourites Team Motueka had a huge following as they raced the course, finishing in a commendable 8th position.

Brent Steinmetz, Jake Stow, Claire Sykes and Mark Rayward were amazed at the 300+ locals who came out to welcome them across the finish-line. The following day they visited five schools across the region to share their unique GODZone experience with the children.

Team Knapps Lawyers Nelson based Sakkie Meyer and Dene Gavin teamed up with Louise Mark from Waitakere and Ben McDowell from Dunedin. With a good local sponsor on board the team worked hard to complete the full course coming in at 19th position.

Team MD Outdoors 25

The Richie factor

All

Black legend Richie McCaw completed his first major challenge after the Rugby World Cup by finishing GODZone.

The two-time World Cup winning captain raced with Cure Kids team-mates Sarah Fairmaid, Rob Nichol and Ben Meyer, raising over $296,000 for the charity and attracting significant media and spectator attention.

“Adventure racing is considered a niche sport even in New Zealand, which is its home, but having someone like Richie racing has helped to showcase the sport to a broader audience,” says Race Director Warren Bates.

“The crowds of people who came out to Rabbit Island on the first day and subsequently lined urban streets and quiet rural roads – some in the middle of the night wearing their pyjamas – just to see Richie and the other teams go by has been phenomenal. All of us have been overwhelmed by the interest and welcome the people of Nelson and Tasman have given the race.”

Having never competed in a multi-day adventure race before, Richie and his teammates finished the 530km course in just over five days and in 20th place. They were swamped by well-wishers at the finish line. Richie says he was happy to have made it around the course.

“I am pretty jaded, to be honest. Pretty keen to reach the finish-line and I’ll be trying to have a wee sleep this

‘At times you wonder how on earth you’re going to carry on but you manage to keep putting one foot in front of the other.’

R I C H I E M C C AW, F I R S T - T I M E R A C E R

afternoon. When you try something like that, there’s the risk of not being able to live up to it but we got there.”

The former All Black skipper confesses that at times he thought, ‘What the hell am I doing here?’

“It’s amazing what the body will take and that’s what it’s all about. At times you wonder how on earth you’re going to carry on but you manage to keep putting one foot in front of the other.”

Adventure racing was completely different to rugby, he adds. “Yesterday after 24 hours of tramping, your feet are not in good shape, and then you have to get straight on a bike and go for another 10 hours – it’s mammoth.

If you don’t get your head around it quickly it can break you. The punishment on your body is similar to footy but it’s amazing what your body can do.”

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TOP LEFT: Photo: De Nada Creative TOP RIGHT: Richie McCaw racing for Cure Kids Photo: De Nada Creative BELOW: Richie McCaw, Rob Nichol, Sarah Fairmaid and Ben Meyer of Team Cure Kids paddling towards Kaiteriteri Photo: Alex Socci BOTTOM: Richie with fans at the finish line in Kaiteriteri Photo: Alex Socci

27

Old Ghost Road

Ghost Lake basin with Ghost Lake hut in background

A positively haunting ride Over the past four months, Westport has seen an influx of flash bikes on shiny SUVs, driven by toned tourists in lycra.

Sophie Preece looks at the impact of the Old Ghost Road mountain bike track on a region that needs some good news.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHIL ROSSITER ( E X C E P T I O N S I N D I C AT E D )

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C

oal is failing, cement is leaving and dairying is in a slump. Redundancy seems a common word in Westport, where the economic outlook is increasingly depressing. But there’s also plenty of talk about the Old Ghost Road, an epic mountain bike trail providing more than a glimmer of hope.

The 85km mountainous trail from Lyell to Seddonville, through the seemingly impenetrable landscapes of the Lyell and Glasgow Ranges, was created by a team of pioneering dreamers over the course of nine years. Since it officially opened in December, nearly 4000 people from all over the world have tramped or biked the track, claimed by many to be the country’s wildest.

It took more than 100,000 hours of work – at least a quarter of them voluntary – to hack a 1-metre thoroughfare through this spectacular landscape. On a tough day, a three-man crew with diggers and explosives would move just five metres ahead. It also took a trusting partnership between the Department of Conservation and the Mokihinui-Lyell Backcountry Trust, plus a $2m commitment from the New

LEFT TO RIGHT: A boardwalk through the Ghost Lake basin; mountain bikes near Lyell Saddle hut; a rider in the Mokihinui Gorge

Zealand Cycle Trail fund, in addition to other funding sources. of a team of three crushing rocks, maintaining huts and pushing “If you had drawn a picture of the past nine years we would back at gravity. have screamed and run,” says Marion Boatwright, an American It’s a relief to stop and chat about such work, with the first who has been on this ride since day one. “We would not have day’s relentless climb steeper towards the tops. But we push on, purposely inflicted this upon ourselves.” But would he go back aware of impending rain, and soon emerge to a stunning alpine and change the course of history? “I for one would say absolutely trail. It skims along a dazzling ridgeline before dropping down to not. It was the opportunity of a lifetime and the privilege of a Ghost Lake Hut, which is perched, fairytale like, on the edge of a lifetime to be able to work in that kind of country.” rocky cliff. Because it’s our wedding anniversary, I asked Wayne The saga began in January 2007, when a stranger arrived at Pratt from Helicopter Charter Karamea to fly in a box of food Marion’s lodge at the edge of the Mokihinui River with a 19th and beer. It’s an extravagance, but this is surely one of the most century survey map showing an intended road from there to beautiful places in the world to have a good dinner.

Lyell, connecting goldfields at each end. “It never got built, and Wayne is one of the original trustees behind the Old Ghost it’s hard to know if it ever got past the theory stage,” Marion says.

Road, and is to thank for the stunning alpine ride across the tops.

“It was a ghost of a road and a handful of us decided to see if we When the group realised their planned South Branch route was could give it a real life.” not possible, he cut through their grief and demanded that they Trust chairman Phil Rossiter has been a key player in the Old jump in his chopper. They flew up to the exposed ridgeline above Ghost Road, finding funds, navigating paperwork, and reinforcing Lyell Saddle, where he pointed out the lines of an alternative. partnerships with organisations and businesses on the Coast Blasting and clearing the sheer white rock faces added something and beyond, while “occasionally” throwing muscle behind pick like two years and $2 million to the plan, he says, “but I think it and shovel. At the beginning, the group couldn’t have predicted made it from what would have been a good track, to being one of the outcome, “but we all had, in a non-verbal way, the best”. a reaction deep inside our stomachs that said, These days Wayne enjoys a consistent ’It was a ghost of a road ‘This feels very special’. There was romance and amount of business courtesy of the Ghost and a handful of us decided Road, but says the greater story relates to the this incredible magic that drove us to explore the possibilities.” wider community. “You couldn’t get a more to see if we could give The challenges piled up along the way, “and depressed place at the moment, with all our it a real life.’

I’m just proud that no-one wanted to climb back primary industries so bad with coal and M A R I O N B OAT W R I G H T, into their dog kennel and cower away. We were dairying. It’s certainly not going to replace TRACK PIONEER always going to stick it out because a lot of people Solid Energy – nothing like it – but it’s a big put a lot of trust in us and we were never going help to people on the Coast.” to let that down.” Years of toil later, the team are being rewarded When we reach Ghost Lake, the story of the track’s by their community and riders from all over the world. “We are construction and its impact on the Coast is a constant topic being drowned in a really deep appreciation and gratitude from among a group of Upper Moutere trampers sharing the main hut people. It’s very humbling,” says Phil. and its roaring fire with a party of mountainbikers gathered from He works for Solid Energy, which has made huge job cuts at around the country and beyond. The miners may have thought of its Stockton mine at Westport. Phil says when the team set off on this track first, but their story has been eclipsed by modern-day the Ghost Road journey, times were still good, but they knew they pioneers. wouldn’t stay that way. “I don’t think anyone knew they would fall Marion has written a book about the trail’s history, with an off a cliff in the fashion they have, but that was always our view updated version just out. He says the marathon feat is a huge – let’s start getting things in place now that let us transition to a part of the trail’s success, because when people sense that it was new future.” created “by a bunch of inspired people out of love”, it heightens The Old Ghost Road was one of many solutions, rather than a their experience. “We want to connect people with that as much single silver bullet, but its impact has been greater than they ever as we can.” hoped, he says. “And it’s not all about economic impact, but about As darkness falls, we leave the fire and head out to one of seeing a new future – about sentiment; about identity. I think it Ghost Lake’s two summer shelters, available in warmer months. paves the way to a pretty exciting future for the Buller.”

The Murch is perfectly simple and watertight, so we stay dry as it buckets down overnight. Come morning, the southerly has Riding the trail passed through, leaving low cloud and drizzle as we stutter down As Mark and I ride the Old Ghost Road up from Lyell, there the steep, muddy switchbacks of the Skyline Ridge, including 300 are few signs of the vibrant gold-town that once stood here, its steps at the lower end, before emerging into the beautiful Stern streets lined with stores and hotels. About 18km in, the recovered Valley. miners’ track ends, and a newly forged section continues up the The next day’s ride follows narrow tracks cut into steep cliffs, hill. After a few hours, we meet track-worker Aaron Harris, one looking down at the beautiful Mokihinui River, then ends at the 29

xx

‘I have ridden in a dozen countries and that’s the best ride I’ve ever done.’

WA R R E N B O R L A S E , N E L S O N M O U N TA I N B I K E R

Spy Valley area wetland vneyard

Photo: Richard Rossiter

30

Rough and Tumble Lodge, where Marion is expecting another onslaught of guests. The Old Ghost Road has been good for business, but his greater delight is in seeing the wider impact.

Coal-mining is in its final moments, the timber industry is gone, and gold is unlikely to come back, he says. “This track alone can’t be the new future, but it has already pointed the way.”

Having devoured Marion’s sublime pizza, we cruise down to the Seddonville Hotel for a hot shower, hot chips and cold beer.

This is the hub of the tiny community, providing accommodation, pub, post office and dairy, all resplendent in a fresh lick of blue.

There we bump into Virginia Hill, who is part of Advance Northern West Coast, a community-driven organisation working to increase tourism in the Northern Buller. She says the Old Ghost Road is helping people to see the West Coast in a new light.

It’s not bearded, hard-case miners or extractive industries, “but rather family-friendly, and a wonderful environment”, she says.

“Westport and Northern Buller need to be ready for the influx because I feel like the wave is coming in and we need to be ready to offer services.”

The Coast’s image might be changing, but there’s no shortage of those old-time hard-cases, including Pete de Zwart, who sits at the bar with Virginia. His view of the Old Ghost Road comes first-hand because he lived and worked on it for three years, using chainsaw, explosives and muscle to forge the trail, including the section through ’The Boneyard’, an extraordinary landscape of glaring white rock above two mystical tarns. “It was arduous and

Photo: Exposure Photography

a great sense of bloody satisfaction doing it.”

Pete says that unlike the Coast’s extractive industries, the road and its environment “just keep on giving”. And it’s an environment that he sees fresh with every muddy biker who walks into the pub, in awe of what is essentially his backyard.

“You look through other people’s eyes who bike and say how good it is, and that’s your reward. That and seeing all the bikes going through town.”

If Mark and I are anything to go by, raving about the grandeur of the peaks and ridgelines, and beauty of the soaring native trees, Pete has plenty of dazzled eyes to look through. We babble on and on to the locals, who surely hear this daily, about magnificent rivers, stunning outlooks, wonderful huts and the magical story of the people who built the track.

Nelson men Warren Borlase and Brian Grant rode the track in a single day, taking eight hours to get to their superb whitebait patties at the Seddonville Hotel. Their response was less verbose, but surely captured it better: “I have ridden in a dozen countries and that’s the best ride I’ve ever done,” says Warren.

The track’s magic is not lost on the locals. Steph Bullock says when she tramped the road over five days, she could “feel the love” left by workers who went beyond what they needed to do.

She and husband Chris run HikenBike Shuttles from Seddonville, having taken over the business in time for the Old Ghost Road’s official opening. The operation was established by a Backcountry Trust member because the group knew that bikers would need

Photo: Richard Rossiter

Photo: Sophie Preece

LEFT TO RIGHT, FROM TOP OPPOSITE PAGE: Relic of yesteryear; mountain bikers pass Ghost Lake; the inaugural 2016 Old Ghost Ultra; lead runners approach Ghost Lake in The Old Ghost Ultra; trampers pause near Mt Montgomery on the Lyell Range; riders embarking on the dizzying descent north from Ghost Lake; founding member of the Mokihinui-Lyell Backcountry Trust Phil Rossiter; founding trustee Marion Boatwright; mist lifts from Lake Grim

transport to and from the trail ends.

Steph was happy to become a “wee cog in that wheel”, expecting things to start slowly. Instead she has been inundated with people wanting to travel back to Lyell, as well as those who have driven through to the small town and want to be dropped at the start of the track. In March they had 55 bookings, and most days take one or two van-trips as well as vehicle relocations.

Steph, who suffered redundancy because of the downturn in mining, sees the trail as a fantastic opportunity for the region. The next morning, as we drive to Lyell in her van full of mountainbikers, she says without the trail things would be a lot more depressed than they are. “It’s so great to be involved in something positive; to have fit, happy, buzzy people in your van.

I don’t think the trail can support the Buller region, but it’s going to go a long way to help them out.”

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Interview

THE INTERVIEW

PAUL MORGAN 32

After growing up in Wellington, rough-necking on oil rigs and travelling the world, he joined Wakatu Incorporation, rising to become Chairman

BY JAC K M A R T I N

Tell me about your family.

My father left Motueka near the end of The Depression and went to Wellington to join the army, but he missed the cut-off on the medical side and ended up doing an apprenticeship with Fletcher Building. He worked with a business partner for 10 years, then Dad ran his own construction company in Wellington.

He used to buy land and develop it, which is the heart of what we do here. So we were brought up in subdivisions among bulldozers. Dad retired at about 52. That time, mid-60s and 70s, was a huge time of change in the Maori community with land and things, so Dad was very much involved with family events and had me involved as a very young teenager, taking me around to hui so I would learn through osmosis.

What did you do next?

I was interested in a career in architecture. There was only one school, in Auckland, with 25 places and it was damn difficult to get in. I went to university and didn’t make the cut. I decided to go overseas. Later I went back to University and completed postgraduate studies in business management. I went with a friend of mine to the States. We ended up in New Orleans and worked in the Gulf of Mexico. I was rough-necking with the Penrod Drilling Company. We were on a huge semi-submersible rig. We flew to work in helicopters. It was a seven-on, seven-off but I worked 28-on, 28-off and that allowed me to go into Mexico and Central America and enjoy that part of the world. So I stayed on there for some time, and ended up going to the UK. Spent time in London before coming home in 1981.

What were you doing in London?

I worked for an oil company. My sister’s partner had a firm there.

They were involved in real estate; in servicing Middle Eastern clientele. Life as a single man in London was good. I met a great diversity of people. I’ve got five brothers and sisters. All of us were overseas, so I thought it was time to come home and help Dad. What did you do then?

I came home with a partner and two beautiful girls. I married, we settled in Wellington and built a home. Having been the son of a builder, I was pretty handy, so I designed and built my own home in Khandallah. Through the ‘80s there was a lot going on with natural resources and rights issues. We had the fisheries process, the forestry issues and court case with the Government around ownership of land that went right through to the Court of Appeal and the landmark decision requiring the Government to negotiate. I was part of that until the late ‘80s and effectively I was doing a fulltime job, and then I stood in 1986 and got voted onto the Wakatu board.

Tell us about Wakatu.

Wakatu was created in 1977. I stood in ’86, having talked to the aunties all over the place. They voted me onto the board at the tender age of 32, which is very young in the Maori community.

But they saw something in me – they’re pretty astute old birds!

There was a lot of work to do. We took our assets back in ’77. They had been appallingly administered – locked up by legislation in perpetual leases and leased to other people. We got a bare minimum peppercorn rental. We couldn’t legally walk on or access our land. It was a residual estate that had come out of the New Zealand Company Nelson Tenths Estate, and some of the reserves in Motueka and Golden Bay. It wasn’t in good shape due to poor Government administration over many years.

In the early ‘90s there was work, travelling, family, university and

all the issues of the day which I was involved with – I’ve always been flat out, really. I got to know the Maori community and New Zealanders who were either in power through Government or very influential people. They were formative years for me in thinking through strategy and to get things done at all levels within our community.

What have the assets of Wakatu grown to?

When the owners took over in 1977 we had about $11m worth of land, and today we’re probably managing almost $330m worth of assets. We have land, water and other operational assets such as Winery’s and factories that make up our business. There are big issues in terms of giving our people the insight of how you can create success in a number of ways, whether that be your contribution to the community, the employment of people, producing goods and services, or just having influence within your own and wider community.

What do you think of the local authorities?

We’ve got three in our area, because we operate from the Tasman Sea to the Awatere Valley. We’ve got two councils here and one over the hill. Our view is clear: we need one local authority. As a region, we need a vision and strategies that are good for the region. We want strategies that support and attract our people, especially our young people to this area.

What do you think about the Southern Link?

The ideal thing is to move towards forms of public transport that are low carbon emissions; make provision for more cycling and people being able to move around the city in a number of ways.

Modern cities are reshaping themselves. They’re closing the inner-city off to cars, and putting people back on the footpath and on bicycles. Here in Nelson we could have more of that.

What else would you like to see in the CBD? One of its problems – and one of its strengths – is those lovely little ‘boutiquey’ buildings, but a lot of them are very tired and don’t meet the earthquake requirements, so to be able to meet the modern terms for retail, it’s difficult. Nelson should go the same way as Wellington – commercial, light commercial, retail and people living in the city. That generates night-time activity and enlivens the city by attracting people to live and work here.

Do you think Rachel Reese and this Council have done anything in that regard?

There are a few initiatives underway and I think the Council is committed to developing the inner city, however there is still a great deal to do. I’ve just come back from Wellington, and the energy is huge because there’s so many people living in apartments in the city. The CBD is alive seven days a week.

Nelson’s got to change and go that way. Some of the older buildings need redevelopment to achieve better-quality, multipurpose developments.

What about the gondola project up Fringed Hill?

New Zealand will have to invest more in events and infrastructure to support people coming here. We’ve got to do it in a smart way, using clean technology and environmentally built into the landscape. There’s a beautiful gondola near Port Douglas in one of the national parks that goes through the forest. It just whisks through the trees. It stops off at an education place; it captures the Aboriginal people’s relationship with that place – fantastic. A similar project could work in 33

Nelson but would need to be supported by an overall strategy to bring tourists to our region.

Any thoughts on Nick Smith?

He’s a bit contentious at the moment, in terms of his responsibilities for a number of issues and how those are managed. In terms of his personal skills, he’s worked bloody hard for our region and he’s obviously got a strong focus on the environment. His engineering background is great in terms of his skills around the housing shortage for example, but if you think about things like the Kermadec legal challenge which is happening at the moment, there are serious issues at stake which have not been well managed by the current Government. They’re three terms in and that’s the time when you’ve really got to think through your processes of engaging with communities, not being arrogant and ensuring that you maintain and build relationships.

Do you think they’ve become arrogant?

They’re in a hurry to get things done as part of their legacy so they’re perhaps not talking enough to stakeholders and partners.

People will get annoyed with this approach, momentum builds and they may demonstrate that they had enough – and it comes through in the ballot box.

Which senior politicians have been best to work with in your time?

David Lange; his intellect was famous. I was talking to a guy the other day and we were having a laugh about Lange’s great oratory at Oxford in that great debate. He came at a time of huge change. Labour just rolled it out. They made a lot of mistakes, but also led some necessary changes.

This was privatisation, deregulation?

Yes. The whole notion of the state, subsidising commercial activity is a bit unrealistic, and effectively we were bankrupt when Labour came into power in 1984. The first thing Labour did was remove the agricultural subsidies. No longer did that sector get the subsidies and they had to work out a way to survive and prosper. The agri-business has done well, but it’s taken a lot of hard work and time. We’re probably one of the only countries in the world with a fully market-driven system. It’s also shown through in science, technology, productivity, innovation. There has been massive change over the past thirty years.

Are there any large changes of that sort you would like the state to do?

In terms of where New Zealand’s at compared with other countries in the world – the ‘good country’ index, how we are perceived – we’re sitting in a reasonably good place in terms of the ability to do business in New Zealand, our regulatory environment and our commitment to sustainability. But in other ways, we have a very long way to go in terms of addressing children’s wellbeing and welfare, the gross inequity in incomes and the growing gap between the rich and poor. These are really important issues that we need to resolve as a country.

What do you think of the TPPA? Our company relies on global trade and exporting – we don’t produce just for New Zealand. The issues of sovereignty and us trading away our democratic rights to make decisions, undermining the judicial processes of courts, our indigenous property rights and intellectual property are very serious matters and require a lot of consideration. From the Wakatu perspective, 34

Paul and his stepson

we must have trade, but the TPPA’s not such a material deal.

The US, Canada and Japan haven’t removed a hundred billionplus subsidies on dairy. There would be minimal gains from a trade point of view. We’ve got a real problem in the world because there’s disinflation in some markets, people are not spending, there is massive youth unemployment in many parts of Europe.

What we want is for our global partners to be growing and trade agreements by themselves will not achieve that.

Your thoughts on the flag referendum?

That whole process was before its time. We will change the flag, but hopefully there’ll be a logical process as to why we need to change. The flag is part of the bigger picture around our lack of a written constitution. As a country we need one. There’s so many things that need to be done. We have to address our education system and what we teach in the curriculum in New Zealand history, or the lack of it. Generally, New Zealanders are ignorant of the history of their country. Our education system is still doing a poor job of teaching the history and until this is rectified it will be difficult to progress constitutional discussions and discussions about nationhood in our country.

So what do you think about race relations in New Zealand?

Relative to other countries, we’re in a reasonably good place, but we could do better. My mother is 99 years’ old. She was brought up in a native Maori village and her first language is Maori. When she first went to Wellington at the age of 18, she couldn’t speak English. She was a complete stranger to the Pakeha world. It’s different today, with people living in the cities and many Maori are now very highly educated and experienced in the Maori and Pakeha worlds. Today, Maori and Pakeha play sport together, inter-married, and there has been a lot of social interaction but we really haven’t had an in-depth discussion about our collective culture, what we believe in, our value set and our common history and aspirations as New Zealanders.

What are the differences in culture and value set between Maori and Pakeha?

The most important thing in Maori culture is our genealogy, our whakapapa – who we are and who we come from. As an example, I know my whakapapa back to the ancient explorers

Enjoying the Marlborough Sounds; at the NZ embassy in London; Paul with the Chair Zoneco of China’s largest seafood company; Paul with whanau

and travellers in my genealogy. Many Maori do, and this is something that is not necessarily well understood by Pakeha.

We believe that those people who have gone before us, their DNA is in us. We view ourselves as part of the natural world and that’s very important for us because it ensures the balance between people and all other living things is maintained. The need to respect the environment and the mauri or life force of a place, whether it be in our rivers or other water sources and understanding that the health of these places contributes to the whole, is still very important to Maori. Western culture or Pakeha culture, in comparison focuses on the individual and the rights and health of the individual. From a cultural perspective, there is less emphasis on the environment, the extended family and obligations to the broader community and natural world. Colonisation has had a huge impact on all of this, but where Maori people have maintained their culture and connectivity to their land and to each other, it’s an enormously strong and empowering thing. Wakatu is a great example. We’re not just a business, we’re actually a family business committed to empowering and developing each other.

We’re a large family business.

So the profits of Wakatu get distributed to …

The shareholders, who are the families of the descendants of the original Maori owners of Nelson, Motueka and Golden Bay. Profit is distributed to the families via dividends and we also make contributions to the community in a number of ways, such as direct contributions and sponsorships. We don’t advertise it a lot, but we invest in marae, cultural activities, kapa haka, waka ama, events that are focused on health and culture.

So you do welfare as well?

No, we do not provide welfare. We provide opportunities to people to help them themselves and their families. Our educational and professional development programmes are examples.

What do you think about welfare generally?

I was part of a group many years ago that fronted up to a Royal Commission of Inquiry. We formally asked to be removed from

the benefit system, for all Maori. They sat there, a mix of Maori and Pakeha on the panel, and they said, “What will we do with all the Pakeha?” We said, “If you want to keep providing them with welfare, that’s kei te pai, but it’s time for Maori to stand on their own feet and not be hooked into this horrible system.”

So you would get rid of the welfare system?

There obviously has to be some state support at some levels of society. In Maori terms we had our own system of welfare and caring for one another – it’s called whanaungatanga; the way we work together as families and communities. The concept of the extended family, the hapu, was our social welfare system.

Everyone had to work and make a contribution according to their skills. Elders were especially revered because of the knowledge and leadership abilities they had. They continued to have an important role once their working lives were over.

Should New Zealand become a republic?

Yes, and I believe it will in time. It will be a difficult journey to go on with Maoridom because of the relationship to the Queen, the constitutional arrangements and the Treaty, and the fact that there is unfinished business.

Is Wakatu pushing for a constitution?

Yes. We want the debate on the constitution.

Is the current Government receptive to that?

No. There’s working committees that have been doing work around it for years. It’s an evolving process that will eventually get us a draft constitution, but that will require a lot of work and consultation with the community. We need a constitution.

In a Westminster system 50.1 percent gets through radical change and in some areas that threshold should be subject to 75 percent.

Which areas?

Areas around fundamental human rights, the role of the Courts and the role of Parliament. There will be other issues of fundamental importance that will be identified as we work through the discussion, including the Treaty of Waitangi.

35

Paul chairing at Whakatu Incorporation

Would you use a referendum to get that mandate?

In Switzerland they have about 25 referendums a year. The technology is there now that allows this but if you talk to politicians, they say they’re voted in, they’ll make the call and they don’t necessarily like that kind of system because it makes them more accountable. However, populations should be able to participate in a living democracy and politicians must represent the views of their electorate. A major challenge for politicians will be to understand that the country’s demographic is changing rapidly, within 50 years, the majority of New Zealand’s population will be brown and Asian. Pakeha New Zealanders will be in the minority and this will change the face of politics and decision-making. Our society is multicultural society, but the founding partnership of the Maori and Pakeha relationship is very important and is the basis of power sharing and constitutional legitimacy in New Zealand.

What do you do when you’re not working?

We have a beautiful block of family land at Marahau which is available for all Wakatu families to use. I’ve got young children.

They’ve had all their holidays there, meet up with all the relations, play with other kids, learn to kayak, ride a bike and spend time near the national park, which is where our families come from. I travel, which I love. I’d like to go to the Galapagos and the Amazon. I love fishing, swimming, boating. We go out to D’Urville Island to fish and enjoy all the things our region has to offer. I was diving next to Maud Island yesterday. We got 14 crays, moki, cod …We’re very fortunate. From the time I was really young, we were sea people. Dad lived on the Motueka River so we were into fishing and everything associated with water. Some days I just like to stay home. Last week, it was just people all week, culminating in an owners’ meeting in Wellington. So at the end of a busy week it is good to come home and relax.

Where do you like to go out in town?

The seafood restaurants. I like the Boatshed – we have a lot of business meetings down there – and the Urban Eatery. I like the Indian cuisine in town and I would love to see some great Asian restaurants.

36

Film, TV … anything you like in particular?

I don’t have a lot of time to watch television. I watch Q and A, Native Affairs. It’s my job to be conversant and to keep up with everything that is going on in New Zealand and internationally.

It’s become particularly important internationally because Wakatu operates around the world, and we need to make sure we are conversant with what is happening in key markets.

Anything else you’d like to talk about?

We’re awaiting our Supreme Court decision. This relates to a case taken on behalf of the original Maori owners of Nelson, Motueka and Golden Bay against the Crown. We’ve been on a very long journey with the case in regard to the Crown’s legal obligations as a trustee of the Nelson Tenths Reserves estate. The case stems from the settlement of Nelson by the Crown and the New Zealand Company, and the Crown’s failure to reserve the full one-tenth of land for the Maori owners as guaranteed by a Crown Grant signed in 1845. This legal dispute requires resolution with the Crown and it’s a separate process from the Treaty settlement process, which was not focused on breaches of the law.

What are the potential outcomes?

We’ve won on the facts at all levels of the courts. The legal principles are complex and will require the full attention of the Supreme Court judges to resolve. There are a number of potential outcomes and we’ll be in a position to consider them once we receive the result.

When will the case be announced?

We don’t know, the Supreme Court hears very few cases each year but the cases it hears are complex and important cases.

So, we just have to wait until the case is delivered along with everyone else.

Anything else?

I am very proud of our people and what has been achieved over the last thirty years in particular. They have done so well, especially when you consider the difficult history and the poverty that many families have experienced. There is still a lot to do, however there is a lot of positivity about our future.

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37

BUSINESS PROFILE

Clever thinking at the heart of Nelson’s forest industry

BY JOHN COHEN-DU FOUR AND SANDRINE MARRASSÉ

I

ngenuity and innovation can pop up in the most unexpected places. Like while you’re sitting in the cab of your Waratah harvester, swinging around its huge, dinosaur-like harvester head with such control and dexterity it’s like a bionic extension of your own arm, giving you the power, in one seemingly fluid movement, to lift a giant fallen tree, strip it of its branches and bark, and precisely cut it into pre-determined log sizes—all in the time it’s taken so far to read this article.

Welcome to Charlie Thomson’s domain, the place where he came up with his novel idea for eliminating chain shot, a very real, very lethal safety risk to any forestry worker in the vicinity of his mechanical harvester.

Charlie, who along with Mike Fraser is part-owner of Nelson Management Ltd’s (NML)* contracting business Thomson and Fraser Processors, explains, “The two mechanised chainsaws working within the Waratah harvester head operate at tremendous speeds under enormous pressure. No matter how good an operator is, they can never stop a chain from breaking, and when it does any small debris 38

that gets flung out is chain shot. Basically, in that moment, it’s flying shrapnel.”

Ten percent of all chain breaks will feature chain shot, and while the Waratah operator is protected by the cab they sit in, safe behind its 17mm bullet-proof glass, any other workers on the skid site, or other machinery or vehicles, are potential targets.

Charlie’s solution at first seems beguilingly simple: devise hanging guard flaps to block the chain shot from escaping beyond the harvester head.

But as he discovered, the guard flaps needed to be flexible enough to not constrict the ability of the unit to drop close to the ground for trees to be scooped up, yet not so flexible that they routinely got in the way of the chainsaws and damaged them, or became damaged by the saws themselves.

“And they had to be tough enough that if they do get struck by the saw blades, they wouldn’t be wrecked and of no further use. After all, it’s a lot easier and cheaper to sharpen chainsaw blades than replace a $500 flap.”

The final design has ended up being a mix of nine layers of laminated rubber and

specially located reinforcing steel plating, precisely positioned to cover any angle of trajectory the chain shot might take.

“The rubber absorbs the impact and deflects the chain shot downwards to the ground. There are four guard flaps in all, two shielding either side of the main saw blade, and two shielding the topping saw blade. That’s the really critical one with the widest chain shot range—it can basically turn the entire skid site into a target.”

It’s taken Charlie a full 18 months of design variations and field trialling to devise a proven prototype that meets the high safety standards he’s been after.

So convinced is NZ-based manufacturer Waratah of the value and future of Charlie’s breakthrough, it is building and is soon to open a specialised facility in Tokoroa devoted to developing his concept even further.

“Waratah want to keep me involved for ongoing design assistance and testing,” says Charlie. Given Charlie’s 30-years’ experience in forestry, the past 20 operating Waratah harvesters, that’s hardly surprising. In fact, it was thanks to Charlie, and in particular his business partner Mike Fraser, that the first Waratah was brought to work in NML’s forest estate back in 2002. “Mike was a huge believer in the technology—he was determined to mechanise the Top of the South,” says Charlie.

NML are thrilled with Charlie’s latest innovation. “Safety is everything to them, but they also appreciate how the elimination of chain shot risk increases the ability for the company’s mechanical harvesters to be used in more constricted areas where skid sites are smaller.”

At a cost of around $800,000 per harvester, the log producing behemoths represent a huge investment—making the $2000 for a set of four chain shot guards a small price to pay to make the units much safer and even more capable in the field.

It’s a good news story all round—and all thanks to the sharp thinking of one clever man in a harvester cab.

NEW LOG TRUCK SAFETY INNOVATION

As it turns out, innovative ideas are often also born while sitting in the cab of your logging truck, driving the long distances between forest and the log drop-off point.

Meet Duncan Borlase, owner of Borlase Transport Limited, an NML contracted Brightwater-based logging transport company, and foundation member of the Log Transport Safety Council. Duncan is no stranger to innovation. In his 40 year career he has invented many of the features that are now stock-standard on

BUSINESS PROFILE

OPPOSITE PAGE The harvester head in action: any chain shot firing out from the front of the chainsaw blades is shielded by Charlie’s guard flaps BOTTOM Close-up of the twitch and Borlase Bellcrank ABOVE LEFT Charlie Thomson with his Waratah harvester ABOVE RIGHT Duncan Borlase tightens a log load using the horizontal twitch and Borlase Bellcrank system

every log truck in the country.

Duncan, and son Steve Borlase (also a partner in the business and its Health and Safety manager) have developed a simple and safer way to tighten and secure log loads, with the goal of eliminating the risk of injury to drivers. Log loads are secured to logging trucks with chains and a load binder twitch – a simple, metal chaintensioning device, with a hook at either end to attach to the chains, and a lever to tighten. The twitches are traditionally attached vertically, and the action of tightening the chains by pulling down on the twitch handle was a very real safety risk.

“What’s happened over the years is that people have slipped and the handle

comes back upwards at its most tensioned point (which has a lot of force behind it), and can hit the person in the face – we’ve had people lose their front teeth, someone working for another company lost their eye, and then in short succession two more people lost their eyes while working for other companies in the North Island. At this point Lees Seymour (NML’s Managing Director) turned around, got us contractors together and said ‘We can’t have this, we’ve got to come up with a solution to prevent this from happening,’ says Duncan.

At first a winch system was used, but this method was both expensive and unreliable in less than perfect weather conditions. Thus the ‘Borlase Bellcrank’ was conceived. It’s a typical bellcrank system, but the way it’s being used is new, along with the repositioning of the twitch into a horizontal position. A 90-degree bellcrank usually consists of an ‘L’ shaped crank pivoted in the centre where the two arms of the L meet. In the Borlase system, chains and twitch hooks are attached to the ends of the L arms of the bellcrank – when one is pulled by the twitch lever, the L rotates around the pivot point, pulling on the other arm and tightening the chain around the log load on both sides, doing some of the work that was previously done by the brute force required to pull the twitch bar into its locked position.

By changing the placement of the

twitch so that it operates horizontally rather than vertically, if the handle ‘kicks back’ it travels away from the operator, hitting the side of the load and can not injure them. This positioning also eases long-term wear and tear on the upper body.

“This is a very simple thing! The only thing that annoys me about it, is why the hang didn’t we think of it earlier!” says Duncan.

The bellcrank system is also costeffective (roughly half the price of a winch system) and easy to maintain, but above all is improving safety in the workplace.

“NML sets the bar very high when it comes to health and safety which pushes us to do the same. We’re already thinking about our next challenge – figuring out how to mechanise throwing the chains over the loads,” says Steve. *[Nelson Management Ltd is the management company for Nelson Forests’ 78,000 hectares of forest in the Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough regions. More than 600 people are employed across the business, and the company harvests 1.1 million m3 of timber sales annually. 70% of the logs harvested are processed by local sawmills into products for the domestic and export market.]

Contact nelsonforests.co.nz

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Olive Estate SHOWHOME OPEN! ed

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LANGDALE DRIVE

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41

SHOP, DINE, ENJOY

MORE THAN FASHION Cnr Hardy & Morrison Sts NELSON CITY Open 7 Days • morrisonsquare.co.nz NELSON FARMERS MARKET Every Wednesday from 10:30am - 3:30pm

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M AY 2 0 1 6

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b.yu knit top and jacket from Shine Elk jewellery from Shine Brixton hat from Trouble & Fox

43

STYLE NEWS

Mixed metal madness

C

opper, brass and any kind of metallic is one of the latest crazes when it comes to interior design.

It matches beautifully with neutrals and monochromes, so that the metallic pieces bring a modern ‘pop’ of colour into your home. It doesn’t have to be much – think a copperthemed cushion, or clock; a rose gold bowl or ornament. Splashes of metal throughout your home will bring a fresh new look, without having to completely redecorate.

Copper bowls from Moxini

Rowe Beau Coops

W

A

utumn is now in full swing, with winter just around the corner. In some ways, winter is my favourite season. You get to layer your clothing, pull out and finally wear those generally expensive winter coats, and, it is cold enough to wear your knee-high boots.

This winter we are seeing a lot more colour than usual, which is great. Lots of fun-coloured knits that you can layer over your dress or wear under your coat. Also, the boots this season are to die for: chunky black ankle boots and some stunning, skinny legged, knee-highs with heels. Perfect with opaques, a cute dress and coat. With more unpredictable weather on the way, it is handy to have a rainjacket near.

There are some pretty cool coloured raincoats for sale too, so you can still look the part, even when it is pouring down. Everything I have talked about above, and in the rest of the Style File, is available from our lovely local retailers. As an ex-retailer myself, I urge you to support our local economy. Let’s show our shops some love, rather than their online counterparts.

Rowe Beau Coops available at Taylors...

We Love Shoes

Mesop in Shine

S

Kate

hine have just launched a new label into their collection.

Mesop, an Australian made and designed brand, are known for their classic, contemporary fashion.

Their Winter 2016 collection, available at Shine now, shows inky midnight blues that complement the natural tones of their cottons, linens, sand-washed silks and luxurious knitted styles. They are also following the denim trend. These pieces sit perfectly beside their bold animal prints and classic stripes.

K AT E D ONA L D S ON

Mesop available at Shine

Enjoy,

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hat is not to love about these loafers. In a stunning royal blue, they are sure to draw jealous glances. The soft black scalloped edging sits perfectly above the gold medallion, and the rugged blue rubber sole just adds to the perfection. These chunky loafers will get you through winter and summer.

Wear them with jeans or stockings and a cute skirt. Then in the summer wear them with a cute summer dress to give an edgier look.

STYLE FILE

Daisy dreaming

N

ot only a cute bottle, but this perfume smells divine, with an expansive blend of pink grapefruit, apricot nectar, freesia and rose. The other perfumes in this collection, Daisy Blush and Daisy Dream Blush, offer more bouquets of fresh florals, including water lily, fresh woods, violet leaves and bergamot. And yes, the bottles are just as super-cute as this one.

LIVE LIGHTER WITH:

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$199.90

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Snuggly robes at Little Boutique

CHELSEA Black Nubuck

$219.90

A

full range of Givoni robes have just arrived into Little Boutique. These snuggly, soft robes are 100% polyester polar fleece to keep you warm and comfortable. Little Boutique stock a range of fun colours and styles to meet everyone’s needs. The robes also match perfectly with their new winter range of Florence Broadhurst sleepwear, a fun, printed collection of two-piece PJs, nighties and light robes.

Go in and see Julie and the girls. They’ll help you pick the perfect winter sleepwear.

MADISON FRINGE Petrol Blue Nubuck

$249.90

Robes available at Little Boutique

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$249.90

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45

STYLE FILE

b.yu knit top and jacket from Shine Honey Child skirt from Shine Staple & Cloth slip from Trouble & Fox Elk jewellery and clutch from Shine Brixton hat from Trouble & Fox Nu shoes from Taylors...We Love Shoes Knee high socks from Farmers Elk earrings from Shine 03 548 4848

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Elk knit from Shine 03 548 4848

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STYLE FILE

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Elk earrings from Shine 03 548 4848

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Elk Dress from Shine Jewellery and handbag from Shine Brixton hat from Trouble & Fox Felmini boots from Taylors...We Love Shoes Socks from Farmers

Elk necklace from Shine 03 548 4848 47

STYLE FILE

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Birdie Cashmere scarf from Shine 03 548 4848

Elk bag from Shine 03 548 4848

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Harlowe dress from Shine Elk knit top from Shine Jewellery and handbag from Shine Dyrberg/Kern bracelet from Shine Staple & Cloth slip from Trouble & Fox Enjoy scarf from Shine Glasses from Kuske Django & Juliette shoes from Taylors...We Love Shoes

STYLE FILE

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glasses from Kuske kuske.co.nz | 03 545 8693

Ingualados boots from Taylors...We Love Shoes weloveshoes.co.nz | 03 548 7863

The Fifth dress from Trouble & Fox Elk scarf, boots and bracelet from Shine Dyrberg/Kern bracelet from Shine Glasses from Kuske

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53

STYLE FILE

Gentle Nature

Justine Jamieson tries the Antipodes Aroha Organic Facial at the new Erban Spa in Nelson, cost $100.

A

fter racing around with work all day, I park my car, wondering if I need to take a painkiller for my tension headache.

I choose not to and the moment I walk down quaint Nile St and enter the front door of Erban’s beautiful old building, my pulse slows, anticipating the relaxation I am about to experience. Owner Tracey and Beauty Therapist Georgia welcome me with genuinely open smiles and a calming presence.

The overall feeling of this modern spa is one of tranquility and gentleness. The atmosphere is a feeling of being in nature – a New Zealand bush scene fills the wall behind the counter, soft textured furs cover the benches, and the cushions are inviting.

The many shelves are filled with Antipodes products, one of New Zealand’s most ethical, natural beauty ranges.

I am given a questionnaire to fill out before I go into the treatment rooms. You know, the normal type of questions: Do you have blackheads? Tick. Wrinkles? Tick. Are you pregnant? One huge cross. The sort of questions a 33-year-old woman loves to fill out – although very essential to my treatment, I know.

I am then taken past the large French doors offering a glimpse of the relaxation courtyard area – ahh, more peace and

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quiet – and am invited into a warm room with beautiful, rich, deep earth-coloured walls, relaxed mood lighting and the soft sounds of trickling water. I am here to try the Antipodes Aroha Organic Facial but am asked to take off my shoes and pop my feet into a foot bath. This is a nice surprise – a foot rub comes with the facial.

The beautiful aromas of blackcurrant, spearmint leaf and cardamom from the Antipodes Nirvana bodywash fill the air.

Georgia explains that everything she is going to use in the facial is Antipodes, which are all natural, certified organic, vegan (not tested on animals), and with eco-friendly packaging. Knowing I have sensitive skin and a sensitive heart, this is all good news for me.

Once wrapped up in my soft blanket, the facial starts with a steaming machine placed on my face to open my pores. Then my face is cleansed with Grace gentle cream cleanser. Eye pads are applied and the bright light switched on for examining my skin. Georgia‘s diagnosis is that my skin is normal but very dehydrated. I have the odd blemish and plenty of blocked pores (blackheads). Antipodes Pure Facial Exfoliation is used to get rid of the surface dry skin using gentle jojoba beads and avocado oil.

After Georgia washes that off, the ‘My goodness!’ happens – a face, neck, shoulders, arm and hand massage with Heavenly Body Oil. My only explanation is that an angel has swapped places with Georgia. All I can hear is the slight murmur of Peruvian flute music and I am taken to another place, my new happy place, apparently – I am patting bunny rabbits in a meadow. I give myself a giggle as it is unbelievable that I am in such a different place in my mind from when I first stepped foot in the salon.

The soothing Aura Manuka honey mask is then applied. Manuka honey, with its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, is a great natural way to combat acne-inflamed skin. Then more hand and arm massaging – yay, happy place again.

Ananda antioxidant toner is applied, followed by Apostle skin brightening serum with active ingredient kiwifruit to make me glow, then Kiwi Seed Oil eye cream to help those tired, dehydrated under-eye wrinkles, and the Vanilla Pod hydrating day cream with manuka honey, vinyasa grape and Avocado, and finally the Immortal SPF 15 face and body sunscreen.

I am offered a complimentary eyebrow tidy and a mini makeover with mineral make-up, but opt not to as I don’t want any cosmetics to ruin how healthy and supple my skin feels au naturel.

I am then invited to take my time in the relaxation lounge area, where green tea awaits me.

Women don’t give themselves enough time for treatments like this. It shouldn’t be looked at as vanity because it is extremely healthy to be taken care of in this way.

STYLE FILE

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Interior Moxini Interiors stools from $190 Selected floor mats from Moxini Interiors $89 Metallic cushion Moxini Interiors $84 Metallic Indian handmade bowls from Moxini Interiors from $62 5. Jennifer Dumet mugs from Moxini Interiors $13.90 each 6. Modern bar stool from Moxini Interiors from $180 1.

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MY HOME

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An angler’s dream

BY PHIL BARNES

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Korimako sits in splendid seclusion Looking towards The Haystack The gardens have been landscaped using native plants and shrubs Sunscreens provide shade in summer, and allow the warmth of the sun in winter The view towards Kahurangi National Park

MY HOME

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secluded accommodation lodge with spectacular views of Muchison’s Matakitaki Valley is on the market.

Owners Steve and Wendy Wood say the country home, called Korimako, offers 270-degree views and was designed to harness the warmth of the sun, which streams into every room.

The luxury lodge, 10km south of Murchison, was purposebuilt to be eco-friendly and energy-efficient. It is built mainly from timber and includes solar panels and double-glazing.

The four stylish bedrooms all have ensuites. Each room has its own verandah to take in wonderful forest and mountain views.

There is also a two-person spa pool.

On the top floor are two dining areas and two spacious lounges. These are decorated in casual but elegant décor and the main lounge is a great spot to sit in front of the log fire and read a book.

Wendy says the house also lends itself well to socialising as there is lots of space both indoors and outdoors.

The property borders Department of Conservation land behind the house and Six Mile Creek to the east, while the house itself offers extensive views of the Matakitaki River valley.

It is nestled on 34 hectares of land, of which 16ha are good flat pasture – the couple graze cattle.

Originally from England, Steve and Wendy moved to Murchison from the North Island 15 years ago.

However, they had planned their move several years earlier.

“We came down from the North Island and identified Murchison as a place we wanted to be as Steve is a keen trout fisherman,” Wendy says.

“We found a piece of land and several years later we engaged Nelson architect John Palmer and gave him the specs for what we wanted to build.

We asked for the house to sit naturally in its environment and for him to make the most of the views and the sun.”

Steve and Wendy say they were delighted with the outcome,

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MY HOME

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The kitchen is an entertainer’s dream Seamless indoor/outdoor flow to the upper deck Two distinct areas for eating and entertaining Imaginative use of native timbers throughout the house

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933 MATAKITAKI ROAD, MURCHISON Seeking seclusion in a spectacular wilderness location? Korimako, a luxury eco-residence situated on 34 hectares in the stunning Matakitaki River Valley, is an exceptional proposition. With internationally renowned trout and kayaking rivers at your doorstep, this region is hugely popular with fishermen, hunters and outdoor adventurers alike. Currently set up as an exclusive accommodation lodge, it would also make an incredible holiday retreat or a permanent home for someone who appreciates quality and all that this remarkable environment offers.

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5

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Floor: 300 sq m | Land: 34.07 ha

$1,499,000 incl GST nzsothebysrealty.com/NEL00096 KYLIE TAIKATO: +64 21 152 8195 kylie.taikato@sothebysrealty.com

Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Browns Real Estate Limited (licensed under the REAA 2008) MREINZ.

HÖGLUND GLASSBLOWING STUDIO HÖGLUND GLASSBLOWING STUDIO

NEW KNITWEAR

TO SHINE

Locally made by glass artists Ola and Marie Höglund Locally made by glass artists Ola and Marie Höglund and their family Locally and theirmade family creators of New Zealand art glass and glass jewellery since 1982 by glass artists Ola Marie and Höglund their family. creators of New Zealand and art glass glassand jewellery since 1982 Makers of New Zealand art glass and glass jewellery since 1982.

OPEN DAILY VISITORS WELCOME 10AM - 5PM OPEN DAILY VISITORS WELCOME 10AM - 5PM

The glassblowing schedule is alwaysWELCOME subject to change - please ring us OPEN DAILY - VISITORS - 10AM - 5PM The glassblowing schedule is always subject to change - please ring us to find out when you can watch glassblowing in action.

The glassblowing always subject to change - please ring to find outschedule when youiscan watch glassblowing in action.

us to find out(5 when watch glassblowing in action.

52 Lansdowne Road mins you drivecan from Richmond, 20 mins drive from Nelson) 52 Lansdowne Road (5 mins drive from Richmond, 20 mins drive from Nelson) Ph 03 544 6500 52 Lansdowne Road (5 544 mins6500 drive from Richmond, Ph 03 20 mins drive from Nelson) Ph 03 544 6500 www.hoglundartglass.com

www.hoglundartglass.com www.hoglundartglass.com

facebook.com/shinedesignstore 253 Hardy Street, Nelson | (03) 548 4848

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MY HOME

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Spectacular views of the Matakitaki Valley from the upper deck The spacious main lounge The house gives a great feeling of space and light Each guest room has its own private verandah

but 15 years later, it’s time to move on.

Although they’ve loved doing hosted accommodation as a business, Wendy says they are ready for other challenges.

A move from Murchison is not on the agenda, however, so they are looking for somewhere smaller to live.

Wendy says many of the rivers in the Murchison area offer world-renowned fishing, especially for brown trout.

The area also has excellent kayaking – both whitewater and recreational – rafting, hunting, four-wheel driving, mountainbiking, gold-panning, birdwatching and walking, with good road access to the rivers.

Although Korimako is currently set up as as a luxury accommodation lodge, it would be equally suitable for someone wanting a permanent home or holiday retreat. For more information, go to korimako.co.nz.

Anyone interested in the property should visit nzsothebysrealty.com and contact Kylie Taikato on 021 152 8195 or email kylie.taikato@sotherbysrealty.com

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classic MARBLE tiles

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inspired NELSON TILE & SLATE CENTRE 40 Vanguard Street, Nelson neltile@xtra.co.nz www.nelsontileandslate.co.nz

Ph: 03 548 7733 OPEN - MON to FRI - 8am to 5pm SATURDAY from 10am to 2pm

2 hours FREE parking

Supercharge your Business with an Intepeople HR Consultant For as little as five hours a week an Intepeople HR Consultant can help solve all your staffing concerns. Call Nelson 03 546 8649 or Blenheim 03 579 4794 • www.intepeople.co.nz

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MY GARDEN

In praise of public gardens

BY CHRISTO SAGGERS

It

is not so much ‘my garden’ but our gardens that are the heroes of this story. Like all good superheroes they have to be good looking, successful and ultimately save the world – well two out of three isn’t bad!

The Top of the South’s public gardens are a credit to us – go on, pat yourself on the back – you’re partly responsible for creating places of natural peace and beauty that can be enjoyed by all. In Marlborough alone there are over 250 public parks and reserves!

There are plenty of public urban gardens that deserve a mention but I’m focusing on Pollard Park and Harling Park in Blenheim. Pollard Park is the largest green space in central Blenheim at 24 hectares and includes a 9–hole golf course but it would be better as gardens!

The park is named after the local benefactor William Pollard and was originally designed by J.E. Oliver in 1919 - the then Superintendent of Parks.

This ‘Arcadian’ landscape focused on reorganising nature into ideal forms.

A crystal clear spring-fed stream meanders, like a youthful artery, through open parkland, a mystical rhododendron dell, a rainbow’s spectrum rose garden, a camellia grove and other inviting borders and shrubberies. In a few short paces you could be teleported from the native rockery to England or India or California.

The park boasts over 800 roses, 130 camellias and interesting species such as the shagbark hickory and the giant Sequoiadendron giganticum, which is one of the tallest and longest-lived tree species in the world.

At the other end of town lies Harling Park where Blenheim’s Japanese gardens snuggle into the side of the hill. Although a small part of the park, the Japanese inspired gardens are the focal point. The park is adjacent to the much larger Wither Hills Farm Park.

The park was created in conjunction with Blenheim’s sister city of Tendo in Japan and was designed by Takahisa Yamaguchi and colleagues from Tendo’s

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council as a gift to the good folk of Blenheim.

The garden uses traditional Japanese influences but it is planted with NZ natives and uses local stone to recreate a Japanese environment. The design incorporates a pagoda, bridges, waterfalls and water chutes, lots of stone and timber and is a peaceful, thoughtful place where one can relax easily.

The Japanese gardens were made possible by donations and volunteers – all of whom should be recognized as trying to make the Top of the South a better place – cheers!

They have done a really nice job and, although not on the same scale as Pollard Park nor as mature, it is a great example of doing something different in a typically conservative place – so well done to our council for being so forward-thinking!

These parks will not appear on the big screen and they won’t save the world but for the locals they are green spaces amid the concrete jungles. Here we can stay in touch with nature. Make sure you visit as many of these ratepayer-funded parks and reserves as possible – you might as well as you pay for them!

The Japanese pagoda balanced by earth, wind and water – thankfully no fire in the background!

The rotunda at Pollard park is a great place to observe the local flora and fauna

The timber boardwalks and boulders combine successfully whilst the pagoda and pergola create vertical elements. The water unifies them through graceful movement and soft gurgling

BUSINESS PROFILE

Life’s too short to feel dull

As

saviours go, Justine Jamieson wears her halo with a rakish tilt. She decries the damage that alcohol can do, and yet enjoys a few wines. She worked 70-hour weeks for a year, and yet now urges workaholics to get their life in balance. She admits to a string of unhealthy relationships in her darker days, and a penchant for beating herself up, and yet she now sports a ready smile and an enthusiastic approach to life.

Justine walked a bumpy road to happiness, as often happens, but the bubbly 33-year-old has obviously arrived.

Now she wants to lend a hand to others to become healthy and happy through her new venture, Lustre Collective, an online community that quite simply aims to put all people in the business of making others’ lives happier and healthier, in touch with all those who are ready for change.

These introductions will be reinforced with Lustre special events.

Justine admits with a twinkle that one of the first, a Libido Enhancement course, might cause a stir. The workshop for women involves beginner yoga tuned to unlocking energy in specific areas of the body, and guided meditation to go inside for answers and guidance in dismantling the mental barriers in a supportive, non-judgmental environment – not to mention some homework for their partners too. (“The best kind of

homework,” Justine says with a giggle.)

Other events will include morning dance parties – already a big hit when trialled with Wellington office-workers.

“There’s no way you can dance crazy and not feel happy,” says Justine. Half an hour of abandonment to a heavy beat has to be better mentally and physically than staring at a wall from a treadmill first thing on a winter’s morning. Don’t expect ‘normal’ with Lustre events. Expect to be thrilled, shocked, empowered and challenged by the upcoming agenda. Anyone with a community event is also welcome to advertise for free by uploading to the online calendar.

Later in the year, the Lustre therapy will extend to motivating retreats of yoga, invigorating food, alternative healings, mental path-finding – and quite possibly more dancing. Again Justine welcomes anyone who is already doing retreats to get in touch to advertise alongside the Lustre offerings. She explains that this website is an open forum for others making a difference to people’s lives, and she doesn’t agree with the old way of competition. This is a website for gathering everyone together in one place to make it easier for others to make their own choices and find the support they need.

As for happiness in general, Justine cites our national depression and suicide statistics as evidence that we aren’t

living up to the ‘godzone’ image. She also hears more and more these days of others ‘feeling dull’, as she terms it.

Justine herself survived depression and stress-related anxiety, and feels that with the right support these can be turned around more quickly. She doesn’t believe masking past pain with whatever drug, bad habit or destructive emotion of choice is a healthy option.

“Sometimes you have to put yourself first – it’s your life.” That’s not selfish, she adds, because ultimately a happy person warms those around them with the same zest for life, and they will, when they can, pay it forward by encouraging someone else.

Justine quotes Mother Teresa when she was asked what someone could do for humanity: “Find someone who thinks they’re alone and help them believe they’re not.” Justine lives by this quote, and adds: “If more people become happy enough to support others in need, without judgment, imagine the possibilities of this amount of kindness.”

The Lustre Collective site lustrecollective.com is live by the end of May. Members of the Lustre Club earn discounts to services and events. Like all collectives, the power of many will deliver companionship and exciting new directions. Choose to be happy.

For more information contact admin@lustrecollective.com 63

MY KITCHEN

B Y N I C O L A G A L L O WAY

Herb & lemon quinoa tabbouleh

Ingredients 1/2 cup quinoa (or use bulgur wheat*) Large handful each of flat leaf parsley, coriander and mint 1 tomato or 6 smaller tomatoes, diced 2 spring onions, thinly sliced Juice of 1 lemon 3 - 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Salt and freshly cracked pepper

This was our first season with a glasshouse and what a difference it has made in our valley garden. Usually we have a short supply of tomatoes during later summer till early autumn. This year we had a steady supply from December till May. As the last little tomatoes keep hanging in there I have been adding them to salads like this one to add a pop of the summer that was. And don’t skimp on the herbs and dressing here, as there is nothing more satisfying than a well-dressed salad. In this tabbouleh I have used quinoa for a modern twist, however, more traditional bulgur wheat can also be used. I like to use quinoa as it is gluten-free and highly nutritious, and although it is pricey a little goes a long way.

*To prepare bulgur wheat place 1/2 cup bulgur wheat into a bowl. Cover with 1 cup boiling water, cover with a plate and leave to steam for 20 minutes.

Fluff with a fork.

First wash the quinoa in a sieve to remove the bitter saponin — a plant chemical that coats the seed. Place the quinoa in a saucepan with 1 cup boiling water. Cover with a tight fitting lid and bring to the boil. Once boiling, turn down the heat and simmer for 12 - 15 minutes until the water is absorbed and tunnels appear in the quinoa. Remove from the heat and leave to steam, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff and tip into a bowl to cool. Meanwhile prepare the herbs, tomatoes and spring onions. Fold these through the warm quinoa, squeeze over the lemon juice and drizzle generously with olive oil. Don’t hold back on the lemon and olive oil, you want the salad to be well dressed. Check seasoning and serve immediately or cover and chill until ready to serve.

Serves 4 as a side

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Method:

DINE OUT

Asian fusion in Richmond

BY MAXWELL FLINT

A

new addition to the dining scene in Richmond is Lemongrass Restaurant in the Arthur Wakefield complex. It describes itself as ‘Asian fusion’. It is not, as one would expect, a fusion of western and Asian cuisines but a fusion of Thai, Japanese and Vietnamese dishes. The restaurant itself has been well fitted out with an attractive outside dining area. When Mrs F and I entered there was one of those slightly uncomfortable exchanges with the waitress. She was wondering whether to come forward and greet us, we on the other hand were wondering whether we should proceed. Although this Mexican standoff was brief, it was an indication of the awkward uneasy service that we received all night.

The menu itself looked good, with a range of stock standard Thai dishes interspersed with Vietnamese offerings.

When we managed to grab the attention

of the wait staff I ordered a bottle of Brightwater Pinot Gris from the reasonably priced wine list. Oddly, the waitress brought the wine sitting on ice in a wine bucket, and just left it on the table with no attempt to open or pour it.

We ordered two entrées - Sui Mai Pork Dumplings and Vietnamese Crispy Net Rolls. A nice little touch was the complimentary Vietnamese salad that was delivered as an amuse-bouche. I fancy myself as a bit of an authority on Sui Mai and while the ones I received were okay, they didn’t have the depth of flavour I would expect. Mrs F’s Vietnamese rolls on the other hand were delicious, all crispy and filled with shrimp and crab.

I am a duck nut. Mad about the bird.

Peking, Cantonese, wild duck, steamed, roasted, grilled, confit - in fact almost any way. Although I am against the French idea of beating a live duck to produce haematomas that turn into a form of

New Chef, New Menu!

Prego

banner — locked spot

Exciting changes, including:

New authentic, thincrust, wood-fired pizzas.

Wed to Sat from 5pm

blood pudding under the skin once the poor bird is cooked. That’s just barbaric.

I ordered the Crispy Duck Vietnamese style. Well, the bird was certainly crispy.

Unfortunately, not just the skin. The crunch went almost right through the meat. Dry and overcooked. I thanked God for the moist bok choy underneath.

Mrs F’s Fish Pad Prik King was a spicy battered fish on noodles and quite good.

It reminded me of Asian fish and chips, except the chips were noodles.

I want this restaurant to succeed because there has obviously been a real attempt by the owners to get things right; an interesting menu, nice décor, good wine list and very reasonable pricing.

Unfortunately, the two most important things to get right were a little off the mark. The food was just okay but not ‘word of mouth’ good. The charming waitress unfortunately had a tenuous grasp on the art of waitering and she looked nervous, which made us feel nervous. In fact, I felt so sorry for her I left her a tip, much to the annoyance of Mrs F. The milk of human kindness in Mrs F has long since turned into yoghurt.

Despite some obvious flaws, it is early days for this restaurant and it is, I think, still the best Asian restaurant in

Richmond.

Lemongrass Cost: $92 for two (with wine) Value for money: Food: Atmosphere: Service:

February 2016’s Dine Out page featured a review of the Speight’s Ale House in Nelson accompanied by an image of the Speight’s Ale House in Blenheim. We apologise unreservedly to both Speight’s Ale Houses for the mix-up and any confusion caused.

Restaurant

Pizza, Paella & Pasta - Refined

Menu & online orders at comida.co.nz or 03 546 7964

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WINE

Kahurangi vieilles vignes B Y P H I L L I P R E AY

As

grape vines age their roots go deeper into the subsoils and pick up more complex minerals and nutrients. Another bonus for aged vines is that they become less vigorous and, as a consequence, produce less bunches. This reduced and concentrated yield often produces wines that have depth and complexity. Luckily for Kahurangi Estate they have some of the oldest vines in Nelson. Kahurangi is the original Siefried vineyard, so still has some of the vines Herman Siefried planted many years ago. So cherished are aged vines the French will put the term ‘vieilles vignes’ on their labels to indicate old vines.

Kahurangi Estate has three labels; their premium brand, the Kahurangi Estate Mt Arthur Reserve, the main label just called Kahurangi Estate and the third tier label Trout Valley, most of which is exported to Australia. Perhaps the most famous of the Mt Arthur range is the Chardonnay. Unfortunately, there is none available from the winery but if you see a bottle tucked away in a bottle store somewhere, buy it. It is a full-bodied silky Chardonnay that’s had 100 percent barrel fermentation yet still manages to retain good fruit flavours.

The real standout for me was the Mt Arthur Riesling 2014. This is a very good quality Riesling, using fruit from the oldest Riesling vines in the South Island, (1973).

This is a really good example of old vine Riesling; intensity of flavour, great body, and in this case, made dry.

A Riesling made dry can be ‘mouth puckeringly’ unpleasant, but if you accompany it with solid fruit, it turns into a full mouth aromatic; a flavour rich delight, a wine that delivers, and this wine does. It is in the aromatics that Kahurangi Estate excels. Their Gewürztraminer 2013 is a delight - all rose petals and floral. The Pinot Gris 2015 is made in a drier style, a nice change from the lollipop versions that are becoming so pervasive. I liked it, it has good fruit and decent extraction without being overblown.

In the past I have found the reds, in 66

Amanda & Greg Day

particular the Syrah and Montepulciano, to be interesting wines, a little left of centre - character wines.

However, this time the 2014 Pinots, both Mt Arthur and Kahurangi Estate, were overly acidic and didn’t have the fruit concentration to balance the acid.

There was a greeness to the wines that I found overly dominant.

I tried the 2014 Merlot, a grape that usually produces a plummy easydrinking wine, low in tannins. But also here alas there was not the fruit concentration that makes Merlot such an easy drinking wine. Even the Syrah, that spiciest of all red wines, seemed to exhibit a greenness - an ungenerosity of body and flavour.

I know this winery can make good red wines, I have tried them before, so hopefully it is a blip. Regardless, it is worth a visit for excellent aromatics.

They also are agents for a number of overseas labels and some excellent examples of Spanish sherry.

Luckily for Kahurangi Estate they have some of the oldest vines in Nelson.

BEER

“Vacuum pack it for four days in the brine, let it penetrate, take it out, rub it in brandy, then hang it for about 14 days where there is a bit of a draft.”

Matching beer with duck

BY MARK PREECE

O

ver the course of 21 opening mornings, I’ve heard endlessly about supposedly mouthwatering matches of fat wild duck and good Pinot Noir. That’s great if you’re a wine drinker, but I‘m not. So when the annual email arrives, proclaiming, ‘only 140 sleeps to go’, I decide it’s time to research the perfect beer-duck match.

That means defrosting last season’s wildfowl to be slow roasted for amateur home tastings, with an Emerson’s London Porter and a Renaissance Stonecutter Scotch Ale chosen for their full, malty flavours.

Meanwhile, I source some sound advice from those in the know. Matt Bouterey from Nelson’s Urban Oyster Bar and Eatery says the first thing to consider when preparing your menu is

the condition of the bird. The fatter the duck the better, because the breast and leg meat is softer. “I’m looking for a good duck, with nice rich looking meat and hopefully pellet free.”

While working in London, he often cured the breast and legs to make duck ham, leaving the skin on and rubbing the meat with salt and sugar. You need to create a brine of orange, juniper, thyme and bay leaves and rub that over the meat too, letting it sit for about seven days.

“Then vacuum pack it for four days in the brine, let it penetrate, take it out, rub it in brandy, then hang it for about 14 days where there is a bit of a draft.”

The beginning of the duck shooting season, which kicks off on May 7, is the perfect time of year to do this because the weather is cool. When done, slice it

up, and match with a brew. Matt says because duck meat is quite strong, the match needs to be something that will add flavour to it, like a bitter, Belgium ale, or hoppy pale ale, such as Golden Beer’s Bales Bitter Ale, which has a clean citrus flavour. Alternatively, serve the duck with spiced beetroot chutney and match with a lager.

With only seven sleeps to go until the big day, here are a few more suggestions for your maimai matches.

David Nicholls (Moa’s headbrewer) prefers his slow-cooked duck in orange sauce with Moa’s Five Hop English Ale, ABV 6.2%. They say: a range of Nelson Hops including Cascade, Pacifica, Motueka, Hallertau and Sauvin give Moa Five Hop a savoury, hoppy nose and dried fruit, malty characters on the palate.

Brian Thiel (Renaissance Brewing’s CEO) says if he were roasting wild duck he would reduce the Stonecutter Scotch Ale with garlic and peppercorns to make a jus to pour over it. As for the drinking, Renaissance say the Stonecutter pairs well with venison, roast beef or lamb, hearty casseroles and stews, cream brulée or Scottish shortbread.

Richard Shirtcliffe (Head Boy Tuatara) suggests Sauvinova, Single Hop Pale Ale with duck salad, 5.2% ABV. They say: a single hop pale ale exploding with the distinctive tropical gooseberry notes that made its Sauvignon Blanc namesake famous.

Matt Bouterey suggests Golden Bear’s Bales Bitter, 4.6 ABV. They say: traditional English style mild bitter beer.

re o m s y Alwa

. g n i d rewar Ask about New World Clubcard in-store.

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B U S I N E S S S U P P O RT

BY PHIL BARNES

B

usiness-owners have an excellent avenue to network and promote their business through the chamber’s monthly Business after Five meeting, which is hosted by a different business each time.

These gatherings give the host business a chance to showcase what they do, and also provide opportunities for between 80 and 100 other businessowners to meet, build and strengthen connections.

Dot Kettle says that while there is a belief everyone knows everyone else in a town the size of Nelson, generally people only know those within their own circle.

These meetings give people the chance to meet people from other circles and also enable existing businessowners to meet people from businesses that are new to town.

Attendees cover a diverse range of industries, with the construction, hospitality, engineering and retail sectors all represented.

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Business Support An equally diverse range of businesses have hosted recent meetings, including Pic’s Peanut Butter, the Hop Federation in Riwaka, Natureland and Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology.

The chamber also organises a monthly luncheon series designed to inspire and enthuse business-owners by bringing industry experts to the region to speak about emerging issues. Dot says many of these speakers are senior national and even international business leaders whom locals would normally find difficult to access.

“They often talk about ways New Zealanders can develop and expand their export business as we are not going to get rich by just selling to ourselves.”

BLUEBERRY IT An example of how businesses can help one another is in the fast-paced world of technology. BlueBerry IT business development manager Allan Willoughby

says the traditional model of sales and services has changed.

The team at BlueBerry IT works in partnership with its clients at board level to develop digital strategy, and through to the operational side of the business to achieve the most productive outcomes from new ways of collaborating and communicating.

Allan says the rapidly changing world of apps and cloud solutions is revolutionising the way people engage with businesses. Now clients are looking for guidance and validation of a decision they have already researched themselves. They are often 80 percent ready to make that decision before talking to any prospective supplier of products and services.

This is a dramatic shift in the way business is done.

“It requires a corresponding response focused on how to make that guidance form a trusted relationship with you and your business. Making

that easier for your client now usually involves some form of technology solution to manage information, ensuring that you retain that relationship.”

Allan says that apart from using Facebook, many businesses are struggling with how to use social media to further engage their clients.

If BlueBerry IT is unable to help directly, it has the connections to put clients in touch with other businesses who can navigate this new world.

RIGHTWAY RightWay regional partner Olivia Van Vugt says growing a business is hugely influenced by the connections you make. Surround yourself with good people and good networks, she advises.

“These people are those you can refer on to your clients, or alternatively, they know when it’s right to send someone your way.”

Olivia says the Chamber of Commerce events are fantastic and she goes as often as possible.

“You definitely rely on the support of other businesses around you.

Whether it be meeting people through networking events, hosting or attending seminars, luncheons or just the casual drink on a Friday night, it’s so important to get yourself out there and meet people.”

Olivia started a group called Women and Wine last year. It has since grown to about 60 women, some of whom get together on a Friday night for a winddown, a drink and a “chin-wag”.

“It’s informal and relaxed but seems to have been really well-received.

I’ve since called upon ladies in that group for services, such as catering for events I’ve held.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Dot Kettle, Olivia Van Vugt, Allan Willoughby, Julie Baxendine

INTEPEOPLE Human resource consultants Intepeople believe in the importance of partnership, engagement and teamwork to build enduring relationships with clients and the business community.

General manager Julie Baxendine says they do this through a variety of mechanisms, including client meetings, networking opportunities at functions, special-interest groups, and through relationships with the organisations they sponsor and support.

“One of our key strengths is the deep relationship and trust that we build with our clients. This in turn leads

to client referrals.”

Julie says Intepeople wants its clients and their businesses to be the most successful they can be and sometimes that means partnering with other professional services to facilitate the best solution possible.

“We know what we know, and we know what we don’t know, and having the ability to refer professional partners on to clients is a key factor in ensuring a great result. In business these days there are no boundaries. There are always new and interesting opportunities to meet people and clients, either in person or through online options.”

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T R AV E L

Magical ­ Wellington

BY SOPHIE PREECE

N

igel Kennedy has made our two children disappear, with the flick of a card trick and the squeak of balloons transformed. This is magic indeed, and by the time the Kaitaki ferry arrives in Wellington – the kids full of stories of Kennedy’s show and laden with bulbous balloon creations – it seems like we’ve had a holiday already.

We’ve come to Wellington on an urban adventure to give Ben, eight, and Emily, six, an introduction to the delights of the capital, from Te Papa to Zealandia, via waterfront markets, climbing walls and small, packed restaurants rich with spice.

Within half an hour of docking on a Saturday evening, we’ve already left our perfect family apartment in the heart of Cuba Street, ready for a taste of the city.

That taste begins literally, with wonderful Malaysian at Rasa, just metres from the front door of the CQ Quality Hotel, and ends at the iconic bucket fountain, just along the road.

This is another kind of magic altogether. Despite walking past the kinetic sculpture countless times and loving its charming menace, I’ve never seen it so clearly as via the eyes of my children.

They watch mesmerised, grin widely, then shriek as the bright buckets fill with tumbling water, begin to tip, then dump their contents in equal share on the buckets and children below. In retrospect, I think the fountain (which turns 50 in a few years and looks lovely in its gleaming new paint job) is the perfect introduction to Wellington – a cool little capital full of surprises, that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

On Sunday morning we walk to the waterfront markets, somehow passing the beloved buckets with neither pause nor splash. There’s an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables weighing down vendors’ tables, and then an alley of food carts, with so many mouthwatering choices I find myself unable to select one at all.

So on to the City Market, with its beautiful array of artisan food, and the kids taste-testing like they were raised at a farmers’ market. From there it’s just a skip to Te Papa, where we could happily spend two days rather than the two hours we’ve got time for, racing from one exhibit to the next, firing questions at our guide. From whale skeletons to gleaming greenstone, Ben and Emily are absolutely engaged, and I remind myself that, given Marlborough and Wellington are neighbours, they should visit the national museum more often.

Our next stop is the Weta Cave in Miramar, where we pose with orcs and trolls before jumping on a bus to the Thunderbirds Are Go tour, a visit to the miniature sets created for the new Thunderbirds TV series, which pays serious homage to the original 1960s puppet show. The new version is computer generated, but uses the sets created at this studio to replicate those in the original. That’s down to the plastic lemon

70

squeezers that are sprayed silver to create high-tech equipment, and the handmade palm trees, which look just like the originals as the ground they’re on lifts to let the Thunderbirds go.

Then it’s back to the hotel to check out an episode of the show, before a swim at the hotel, a curry on Cuba Street, and yes, another visit to the bucket fountain before bed. Monday brings Dunedin cousins to Wellington, and breakfast at the beautiful Floriditas café on Cuba Street, before walking to the Wellington Cable Car, which has been riding the route from Lambton Quay to the Botanic Gardens for more than 110 years. There’s a museum at top, but we satisfy ourselves with the stunning view of the city leading down to the curve of Oriental Bay, then catch a free bus to Zealandia, a predator-free sanctuary at the edge of Wellington.

Two hours later we’ve seen flocks of kaka feeding within hand’s reach and swooping low above us. We’ve seen a young tuatara snuggled at the mouth of its cave, and an abundance of gecko and tui. The kids tear around marking wild things off their adventure maps, and I laugh to see how a highlight of our urban adventure feels a world away from the city.

Before catching the tram back down to the quay, we stop at the Carter Observatory’s Space Place, where Ben drives a rocket and Emily mimics Maui capturing the sun. We hear about black holes, planets, moons and stars and realise we need another full day, plus a night time planet-gazing session, up on this hill.

Instead it’s back to the waterfront, where Ben and Emily hit the climbing wall at Fergs, somehow finding more energy to clamber up the walls, while we dream of coffee in lieu of carabiners.

After three marvellous days in magical Wellington, what we need is Nigel Kennedy and an Interislander ferry trip to recover.

We stayed in a fantastic family apartment at CQ Quality Hotel in the middle of Cuba Street, which is the heart of Wellington.

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A DV E N T U R E

Kiwi Can leaders hold weekly sessions in classes using games, drama, art and other activities to reinforce notions of good relationships, resilience, respect and integrity.

Images: marathon-photos.com

Kiwi kids can

BY SOPHIE PREECE

K

aren Draper was a back-seat driver on last month’s Forrest GrapeRide, getting behind Kelvin Watt to raise money for Kiwi Can in Marlborough. The Graeme Dingle Foundation trustee says trust and communication are at the heart of the school programme, and both were required in good measure on the tandem bike, “… when you can’t see where Kelvin is going, and he has the control of the gears and brakes”.

Kelvin, who is the foundation’s regional manager, rode the full 101km course from Forrest Estate winery through Blenheim, Picton, Linkwater and Havelock, passing by four of the seven Kiwi Can schools in the region.

Along the way he picked up different copeddlers, all of whom are involved in the programme through their schools, their children, the foundation or sponsorship.

He says it was an ideal event to raise money and awareness for Kiwi Can, which works to build self-confidence,

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help kids be accountable for their actions and reinforce positive behaviour.

Kiwi Can leaders hold weekly sessions in classes using games, drama, art and other activities to reinforce notions of good relationships, resilience, respect and integrity.

Parents, teachers and principals tell him students take those concepts back into their homes. “The other day I was at the Havelock quiz night and heard about kids coming home and using the language, and knowing what it means, like a 6-year-old telling her mum that her sister was not showing integrity. They are key concepts at a really young age, which are built on year after year.”

A Givealittle page was set up for the GrapeRide effort, and the money raised will help pay for the $1000 per term it costs to transport staff to schools in Kaikoura, Havelock, Linkwater, Picton and Blenheim, says Kelvin. “But the ride was more about raising awareness by promoting what we do and bringing

in some of the key people who are involved.”

As well as Karen, the back-seat drivers included Picton School teacher Helen Boudier, Fred de Zwart of Wineworks, supporter Tim Laverack, Marlborough Express reporter Sven Herselman and New Zealand King Salmon manager Mark Preece. Other Kiwi Can supporters rode individually, including Havelock School principal Ernie Buutveld, who is a huge fan of the Kiwi Can programme. “The biggest advantage for us as a school is that we have a bona fide external organisation that is echoing the same values, relationships and skill-sets that our kids want to have fostered,” he says. “That makes a big difference.”

GrapeRide organiser Duncan Mackenzie says the 2000 entries were up on last year, despite a general downturn in ticket sales for cycling events. The event’s continued success after 12 years was thanks to ‘little innovations’, including this year’s Doctor’s Rest Clinic at Momorangi, where plenty of people stopped for a muffin and coffee to rejuvenate on the ride. Another big calling card was the gaining of status as a qualifying event for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championship.

Duncan says not all the 2000 entrants rode on the day, because of rainy conditions, but the inclement weather just added grit to people’s war stories, “because you did it despite the weather”.

To donate to Kiwi Can, go to givealittle.co.nz

BUSINESS PROFILE

“We weren’t certain whether we should take the risk of continuing with the project at such a devastating time, but we decided to go ahead.”

PENELOPE NAISH

The Naish family from Black Estate vineyard

How a passion for wine launched a family business

BY KIWIBANK

B

lack Estate is a family-run vineyard on the rolling hillsides of North Canterbury. While the vineyard now has an established reputation for producing premium organic wines that are exported around the world, the first few years were tough.

The Naish family couldn’t have chosen a more challenging time to buy Black Estate vineyard in the Waipara Valley. The deal was settled on the first day of the global financial crisis, at a point when winemakers in New Zealand were struggling to cope with the country’s wine surplus.

The solution? “We didn’t give up our day jobs,” says former corporate lawyer Penelope Naish, who runs Black Estate with her husband, winemaker Nicholas Brown, and parents, Rod and Stacey Naish.

“We grew really slowly at first, and gave ourselves time to learn the business.

My twin sister, Jo, helped out with sales and marketing, and for the first four years her husband, Alistair Blair, was our only full-time employee.”

Just as the family was about to build a restaurant at the vineyard, the Canterbury earthquakes struck.

“We weren’t certain whether we should take the risk of continuing with the project at such a devastating time, but we decided to go ahead,” says Penelope.

“A year later, we were able to offer Christchurch people an oasis where they could go to relax when so much of the city had been lost.”

Penelope developed her passion for wine after marrying Nicholas. Rod was a fourth-generation horticulturalist who had sold the family pot plant growing business and was looking for a new investment.

They were drawn to Black Estate by its clay and limestone soil, and by the tourism potential of a beautiful hillside vineyard right on State Highway One. In their first two years at Black Estate, Penelope and Nicholas had two children, rebranded the home vineyard and converted to organic farming.

They also use biodynamic methods to help increase soil and vine health. Most of

the work in the vineyard has to be done by hand, and close observation is needed to ensure the best quality fruit is harvested.

Penelope says finding a bank to support the growing business was important to her and the family.

“It feels like we are partners and they understand us, which is essential for a growing company.”

While the business was tough going at first, Black Estate has flourished. Since the quakes, the family has bought two nearby hillside vineyards. Each wine is from a single vineyard, and the Naishes love telling guests in their tasting room the story of how the unique site of each vineyard affects the character of the wine they’re drinking.

Black Estate wine is being exported to Australia, Japan, the UK and Sweden.

The Naishes are now launching a new label as well as joining forces with other local businesses to promote North Canterbury as a great destination for wine-growing, tourism and food.

Penelope says she has found it hugely rewarding to be able to work with her family and to share her passion for organic winemaking.

“I’m so happy to be in business. It’s incredibly creative and dynamic,” she says.

“There’s a lot of rule-following in the corporate world, which perhaps doesn’t suit my personality. Now I’m doing what I love, and I feel like anything is possible.”

Kiwibank loves celebrating independent thinkers.

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MOTORING

The all-wheel drive certainly helps for confident driving, especially in damp conditions …

Subaru six pack

S

ubaru is bucking the trends with its Outback 3.6R Limited. While engine sizes get ever smaller for even large SUVs, the Outback is sticking with its big, meaty six-cylinder option. Subaru stands out for its distinctive boxer engines, but the six is the smoothest in the stable and now delivers its power through all four wheels via a new Lineartronic gearbox, Subaru’s version of continuously variable transmission. It’s just one of many changes in the latest Outback series which is a crossover version between conventional wagon and SUV. You sit up higher in the Outback than you would in a normal car, but there’s not the step-up feel of larger SUVs. The compromise is good in the Subaru which has few direct competitors.

For a similarly large 4WD wagon you’d have to look at Audi’s Allroad or Volvo XC60 – much more expensive cars, albeit with more brand envy.

Subaru’s new Outback range includes a 2 litre and 2.5 litre petrol and a 2 litre diesel, as well as the 3.6 petrol. Prices range from $48k to $60 for the 3.6R and these are actually less than the old model by some margin which is to Subaru’s credit. The new wagons are bigger than before and imposing with their impressive 213mm of ground clearance. They’re long, too, at 4815mm and the load space is improved.

With the rear seats down you can now shovel in 1800 litres of stuff, and 512 with

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BY GEOFF MOFFETT

the seats up. Subarus have never had pretensions of super luxury cabins, but there’ll be few criticisms of the new model with its piano finishes and excellent eightway powered front seats in the 3.6 (heated too).

There’s oodles of head and leg room front and back. First driving impressions are of the smoothness of the 3.6; the big six barely noticeable inside. The new Outback is impressively quiet on the road with excellent sound insulation.

The six produces 191kw and 350Nm of power which is more than adequate and Subaru claims combined fuel use at 9.9 litres/100km (compared with 7.3l/100 for the 2.5) and while it’s achievable, hefty use of the right foot will push that figure up.

The Outback is a big car and a large family will be grateful for its capacity to lug around a full load with the surety of its four-wheel drive – which is full time rather than the on-demand systems of some SUVs. The all-wheel drive certainly helps for confident driving, especially in damp conditions, and, for keen drivers, there’s the choice of selecting sports and sports sharp modes which adjust gear shift points and make the Outback feel more responsive.

Whichever way you drive it, the Outback feels solid and assured.

Active safety measures are a big deal with this car, especially as it’s fitted with Subaru’s excellent Eyesight system which

uses stereo cameras to look at the road ahead and beep you if you leave your lane. The system also measures distance to the car in front and slows you or brakes automatically if you get too close. The Outback is packed with other features, including proximity key, electric tailgate, power moon roof, Harmon Kardon audio, voice-activated navigation with 7-inch touch screen and an X-mode which transfers wheel grip on slippery surfaces.

You can also set the speed for tricky, downhill driving.

The Outback 3.6R Limited won’t sell in big numbers – the 2.5 is the Outback of choice – but for buyers wanting to tow a boat or just prefer the extra smoothness and power of the bigger engine, the 3.6 will not disappoint...

Tech spec Model reviewed: Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited Price: $59,990 (2.0 litre diesel $47,990-$54,990; 2.5 litre petrol $44,990$49,990) Power: 191kw @ 6,00rpm, 350Nm @ 4,400rpm Fuel economy: 9.9l/100km Vehicle courtesy of Nelson Bays Motor Group

B OAT I N G

Nautical musical politics

BY STEVE THOMAS

I

try to stay to one side of politics – the back side – but sometimes you just have to front up. I’ll try. Which is not to say we can’t have some fun in the process. I’m picking this year’s local body elections will be a hard-fought battle. Let’s look at the Nelson Mayoralty race with a nautical eye. Both eyes, not one-eyed. Let’s also recommend some soothing tunes for the candidates to add to their election stress-reducing playlist.

The candidates, in no particular order, and no offence intended: Rachel ‘Admiral Nelson’ Reese Worked her way through the ranks. Time spent below decks has helped to mould a credible reputation. Courageous in battle with a tendency to ignore underlings. Appears to be driven by duty and honour. Tenacious and disciplined, she works her crew hard while keeping them well-fed and watered. Officers close to the Admiral report an old-school approach to differing viewpoints expressed at the Admiral’s table. This has led to harsh penalties being handed out to insubordinates. Recent attempts to re-assign Officers has led to near-mutiny. Suggested easy listening music: The Beatles’ Octopus’s Garden (best played before every Council meeting)Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture (skip to the cannonfire finale. Best played after tense Council meetings). Roger Whittaker’s The Last Farewell (played whenever your heart desires).

Pete ‘The Maestro’ Rainey He’s the very model of a modern Major-General. A true one-man band. Has mastered many instruments while making it look easy. A self-described ‘ideas man’, he risks having to walk the plank on a regular basis. It’s rumoured that the Admiral secretly applauds Pete’s ability to hide any sign of inner-turmoil but disapproves of his overly flippant tendencies. However, when seas are rough he remains well-balanced – which will be a useful skill in the coming months. The Maestro conducts his affairs with humour-filled ease and grace. Musical suggestions:AC/DC’s Highway To Hell (listen with discreetly positioned earphones during Community Services meetings. Not recommended before or after). Rock The Boat By the Hues Corporation (good messages hidden within). Cole Porter’s Anything Goes (we all love musical theatre deep down?).

Richard ‘Jack Sparrow’ Osmaston The money-free pirate. A new breed of revolutionary set to light a fire under the financial system. An ethical pirate, his true motives still remain masked. Whether he is honourable or evil depends on the individual reader’s perspective. Will need exceptional navigational skills and much good luck sourcing enough paper money to alight. Burning plastic will enlarge the ozone hole.

Should consider a career in theatre or the movies if unsuccessful in claiming the main prize. “Now, bring me that horizon”. Ditties to enlighten include: The B52s’ Rock Lobster (because bikini whales are pretty cool – check out the lyrics). Counting Crows’ Einstein On The Beach (not a well-known song but hey, neither is he).

Little River Band’s Cool Change (when the threat of global warming gets you wound up, crank this up really loud).

Perhaps we can have three Mayors? Wouldn’t that be fun.

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nzboatsales.com 75

MUSIC

Step up and face the music

BY PETE RAINEY

I

have spent plenty of time facing audiences during 40 years as a performing musician. I’ve also spent a large amount of that with my back to audiences when conducting choirs, orchestras and shows.

When you think about it, that’s a very bizarre way of performing – standing with your back to the crowd for an hour or two, shaping the way the performance develops, eyeballing the performers while hoping they keep an eye on you and not on the crowd.

I’ve had plenty of choristers who never looked at the conductor once. I can assure you it’s quite disconcerting. So as a conductor you are completely used to facing the music – after all, the quality of the performance has a lot to do with you.

I’ve never really understood the saying, “It’s time to face the music”, because I’ve been doing it for a long time.

It’s sad that music has been drawn into what is essentially a negative idiom.

Interestingly, the background of the saying is a bit hazy. Some believe it refers to a theatre’s pit orchestra, which an actor must face when confronted with what can be a hostile audience. Others think it comes from the military, where a formal dismissal in disgrace would be accompanied by band music.

Musical sayings can be so to-thepoint. My favourite is, “If music was bulls**t you’d be a brass band”.

I’m pretty sure I know a few people who would actually qualify as a symphony orchestra, rather than a brass band, but I just love this saying – it gets straight to the point. It takes the mickey out of someone in a loving, caring and artsy sort of way.

Musical analogies and observations have been around as long as music itself.

The Greek philosopher Plato said, “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything”.

Shakespeare’s famous words, “If music be the food of love, play on” open his play Twelfth Night. Orsino wonders whether an excess of music will take his

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mind off his desire for Countess Olivia – much in the same way that eating too much takes your mind off food.

I never seem to be able to suffer from an excess of music, especially in a social setting. Apparently I can remember hundreds of tunes, especially when near a piano and Famous Grouse. In these instances I am constantly amazed by the people who can remember lyrics – a skill I’ve never mastered.

As they say, some people have the ability to remember 5 percent of names, 3 percent of phone numbers, 2 percent of stuff they should know from school, and

90 percent of song lyrics.

Tom Lehrer, the American songwriter and mathematician who wrote classics like The Vatican Rag and Poisoning Pigeons in the Park, once said, “Life is like a piano – what you get out of it depends on how you play it”.

It’s true – you don’t want to get stuck playing Chopsticks forever. Every now and then we should try and jump up a level.

As I face the race for the Mayoralty here in Nelson I’m very aware that I’m going to have to play a piano concerto right through to the very end. I’m determined to make it a stunner.

BUSINESS PROFILE

Toby and Bridget Wild of Moana NZ SUP Ltd.

Kiwi paddleboarding brand aims to go global

BY KIWIBANK

T

oby and Bridget Wild’s Stand Up Paddleboarding business was born out of a passion for ‘getting out there and doing it’. The Wilds are on a mission to share their love of the ocean and the outdoors.

When long-time surfer Toby Wild seriously injured his back whitewater rafting, he had to find another way to fulfil his love of the ocean.

Happily, a trip to the Gold Coast in 2008 gave Toby his first ever experience of stand up paddleboarding. “It was love at first surf,” he says.

Paddleboarding soon became not just a passion but a business opportunity.

Paddleboards cost upwards of $2500, so Toby decided to make his own.

Toby figured out how paddleboards worked, came up with a design and had two boards made. He kept one and sold the other.

“In those days, paddleboarding was still fresh and people didn’t know what it was.

They’d see my board, ask me what it was and tell me it looked like fun.”

Spotting a gap in the market, Toby and a business partner formed Moana NZ SUP Ltd in 2010. Their first shipment of 12 boards sold well and sales have increased well every year since then.

Toby and his wife, Bridget, bought out Toby’s partner in 2013. Their current board

range includes allrounders - boards that can handle surf and paddle well on the flat. These were made using traditional materials such as epoxy and carbon fibre, as well as several styles of inflatable SUPs. Toby is currently working on new designs for the on coming season.

Moana NZ SUP Ltd has recently expanded their business to include a paddleboarding school and a hire service right on the sand at Tahunanui Beach in central Nelson.

“This business was born out of my passion for getting out there and doing it,” says Toby, who has been an outdoor instructor for more than 25 years.

“I’m a massive advocate for people enjoying the outdoors. I want people to love the ocean and outdoor sports the way I love them.”

While the business is growing each year, there have been challenges along the way. The boards are made offshore - Toby is still searching for a manufacturer in New Zealand who can compete on price - and there is stiff competition from big companies.

Financing the business has also been tough. Toby started off doing all his business banking from a personal account, paying high interest rates. When his business banker left, the only way he could

talk to his new banker was by Skype.

Changing banks made all the difference. “Our current banker has pretty much turned the business around for us.

He lives locally and drives past our business every day,” says Toby.

Another challenge has been maintaining cashflow while running a seasonal business. The sport is so popular in summer that the Wilds call Nelson ‘Paddle Town’, but the school is quieter in winter even though Toby says that’s the best time to Paddleboard - there’s less wind and more marine life.

The couple have kept their day jobs - Toby as an adventure tourism tutor at Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology, and Bridget as a nurse - while they focus on developing Moana NZ SUP Ltd. “The beauty of owning your own business is that you can be hands-on. You’re not just selling a product - you’re selling your own product. We have a direct benefit from all the hard work and effort we’re putting into it, and so do our customers,” says Bridget.

“But for us the other benefit is that we’re introducing people to a sport we love. There’s nothing like seeing the look on someone’s face when they’ve come back from their first ever paddle and had a great time.”

Kiwibank loves celebrating independent thinkers.

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FILM

Taron Egerton and Hugh Jackman in Eddie the Eagle

Eddie the Eagle a winter’s tale

BY MICHAEL BORTNICK

Eddie the Eagle Biography, Comedy Drama Directed by Dexter Fletcher Starring Taron Egerton, Hugh Jackman 106 minutes PG-13

M

ichael Edwards was a celebrated skier in the 1980s.

You can look him up. Known as Eddie, he was a British labourer who became temporarily world- famous because of his enthusiastic mediocrity in ski jumping.

He had no money, no coach, no equipment and no team—England had never competed in the event. Driven only by determination, he slept in his mum’s Cavalier, grubbed food out of garbage cans and once even camped out in a Finnish mental hospital.

From shovelling snow to scrubbing floors, there wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do to jump more.

Besides Eddie the Eagle, he was called Fast Eddie. Slow Eddie. Crazy Eddie.

Unsteady Eddie. The Flying Plasterer.

Mr. Magoo on Skis and The Unconquering 78

Hero. Those monikers should give you a clue to the kind of sportsman this man was.

But his story was a film squawking to be made. Here’s why ... for some reason, everyone loves movies where we witness the redemption of a loser, a nobody, who overcomes tremendous hurdles to regain his manhood and self-esteem.

Quite often, these movies revolve around sport. Think of Rocky, Cool Runnings, The World’s Fastest Indian and, of course, Kiwi Flyer.

A motion picture of my life would revolve around sauntering.

Every ticketholder knows exactly how the plot is going to unfold and there is never a shock ending. Yet, each time, we are dabbing our weepy eyes during the credits.

Eddie the Eagle is one of these films. The sport is ski jumping and is utterly predictable ... but darn it, even I, the cynical curmudgeon that I am, was tearing up during the credits.

Eddie (Taron Egerton), a naive young birdbrain with weak knees, dreams of competing in the Olympics. Nothing could be more outlandish. Did I mention his

clumsiness? He is roundly mocked, but his mother believes in him. Eddie, with his thick glasses and short stature, has a never-give-up attitude and struggles like Sisyphus until he finds the expected drunken coach, the very buff Jackman.

You know how it goes from there.

Yet, the film is incredibly satisfying with not much to dislike. Christopher Walken shows up for a cameo and Iris Berben playing Petra, the ski lodge cafe owner, is simply a captivating woman.

The soundtrack contains music choices from the ‘80s that smoothly push the plot along. And it is adorably funny.

Although it is based on a true story and seems truly authentic, the real Eagle told BBC news that the movie is 90% made up. Yet he enthusiastically gives it his blessing. And surprisingly so do I. This is a film for everyone other than those high brow types who demand subtitles and bizarre camera angles.

Eddie the Eagle is good for an enjoyable post-dinner date or an afternoon out with the kids.

Michael Bortnick has left the theatre to find a drunk to minister to his moseying.

THE MAN WHO NEW INFINITY 5 May The amazing true story of selftaught mathematical genius, Srinivasa Ramanujan whose work remains relevant in maths and science even today.

NOTES TO ETERNITY 19 May Special Q&A screening with Director Sarah Cordery

Wednesday 18th May Documentary exploring the personal and historical perspectives of the minds of renowned critics of Israeli policies – Noam Chomsky, Norman Finkelstein, Sara Roy and Robert Fisk.

SHOP, DINE, ENJOY

EXHIBITION SERIES: FLORENCE & THE UFFIZI GALLERY (3D & 2D) after 14 May

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A cinematic tour throutgh the artistically and historically rich city of Florence and the Uffizi Gallery.

Go to our website for more information

www.statecinemas.co.nz

Ph: 03 548 3885 - 91 Trafalgar St, Nelson 79

QUIZ

Crossword

Across 01. Precious metal 05. Yacht 07. Public persona 08. Enthusiastic devotion 09. Citrus tree 10. Tropical fruit 11. Mauve flowers 13. Drew 14. Stupefying 18. Military students 21. Uterus 22. Made airtight 24. Awkward 25. Clothing 26. Fencing sword 27. Fill with joy 28. Baron’s title 29. Sprites

Sudoku

Wordfind B R E A S T S T R O K E N

Last month’s solutions CROSSWORD

Remember no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

Every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: Each of the nine horizontal rows Each of the nine vertical columns Each of the nine 3x3 boxes

Down 01. Fried noisily 02. Italian country house 03. Circles 04. Extremist 05. Tardy 06. Side of chair 12. Tin container 15. Guacamole ingredient 16. Partook of alcohol 17. Entrance 19. Gorilla or chimpanzee 20. Jockeys’ seats 22. Sheer 23. Fasten (to)

SUDOKU

D E K O R T S K C A B L B

N S P I N N E R T U B E U

A T S A S S E R T T A M T

T R P H D P F C W D N R T

S O E P T D W A I Q A E E

D H W H T A L M S S N Q R

N S V E T I B E H I H C F

A D J E L A L V R S W J L

H R R Q W G E O Y B W V Y

V A P P G S L R J S C I A

D O X O T H D N B O A X M

O B G E C P O L Y M P I C

BACKSTROKE BATHS BOARD SHORTS BREASTSTROKE BREATHE BUTTERFLY CAP CHLORINE GOGGLES HANDSTAND INNER-TUBE MATTRESS OLYMPIC PADDLE RASH VEST SWIM TOWEL WATER

Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or diagonally.

Theme: The Pool

Anagram WORDFIND ANAGRAM Batsmen, commentary, umpire, partnership, sledging Mystery word: STUMPS

I L Q L U W S E R V I C E

T A U A W N Q C L C L O M

P H H T U E C I O J E R L

G R R T C U O T O I S N E

P H E I Q B D C G A S C U

R Z W C C O W A R D I C E

E T E E I E B R Z F Y A C

J C C C L P C P I G S D I

U C I F I H I R U L G V T

D Q Y V O V C C U K O I S

I J Q I O A E I E I U C U

C D C R S N C R C C R E J

E E O L C E N E C I V E D

Unscramble the letters of the phrases to make five words relating to the theme, each starting with the given letter. The letters in the shaded squares will spell out another word relating to the theme. This is the mystery keyword.

RIOT ACT I HUM LOLA PRO ON ICE HAIR VAT MEN AT HELM

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R H P H E

Theme: CHEESE

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UP & COMING

ROSIE OLDER P H O T O G R A P H Y A N A G A L L O WAY

Rosie was home-schooled with her seven siblings.

She loves her family, the ocean and organising things.

She is studying Business Administration at Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology What inspired you to do your course?

It was more ‘who’ than ‘what’. My parents have been an inspiration to me throughout my whole life. Last year, at the age of 16, I was wanting to find something where I could use my talents and skills. I was also looking for something that would be beneficial for learning and give me opportunities once the course had ended, therefore I found the Level Three Business Administration course, which led me on to working at Tinline Property Group and studying Level Four.

What do you enjoy most about the course?

One of the things I enjoy about studying Level Four while working is that I can apply my study to the workplace. There is also the amazing tutors, who are both supportive and have a wide expanse of knowledge.

The outline of both Level Three and Four was and is very professional and informative. It was also great to meet new people, who I would later be in study groups with and we would support each other through the course. I have made some great friendships from this course.

What are the biggest challenges you have to overcome?

Time management would be the biggest challenge while studying Level Four this year as at the end of a workday, to go home and study is challenging, but at the same time very rewarding once I finish assignments. I find that the work in both Level Three and Four is very manageable as long as I stay on top of my studying and keep focused.

What tips can you give others who want to follow your path?

The biggest tip is to stay focused on the course and to persevere through challenging times, as sometime you may want to throw your computer. Just 82

remember there is always a way to fix the problem and just keep trying.

I would also say that it is really important to be in a good study group, as this was a huge help. We learnt from each other and would give support to one another.

What do you plan to do with your qualification?

Currently I am working for an amazing

company called Tinline Property Group, who own and manage malls around New Zealand, one being Richmond Mall.

My job title is Accounts and Administration Support. Tinline have supported and encouraged me with studying for Level Four. They have challenged me beyond the abilities I thought I could achieve, and this job has inspired me to study business and/or accounting in the future.

Check out Rachel’s classroom

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