Ashburton Guardian, Thursday, January 19, 2023

MP believes more price increases on way

Malcolm Hopwood

Beer and fizzy drinks are likely to face further price increases due to a nationwide shortage of carbon dioxide says National’s Energy and Resources spokesperson, Stuart Smith.

Have you lost some sheep?

Ashburton police are looking to find the home of five sheep that were found in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

“A mob of five sheep was found in a vehicle on the corner of Cochranes Road and Elgin Road in Ashburton District at

about 4am today (Wednesday),” detective sergeant Colin Welsh said.

“The vehicle had earlier been seen in Tinwald, Ashburton, but the sheep could have come from anywhere in the mid-South Canterbury area.”

Welsh said the sheep were in poor condition when they were found and there is no indication that the vehicle was stolen.

“There are no other reports of missing sheep in the area, but police urge farmers to check their stock and report any that

are missing,” Welsh said. Anyone who recognises the ear markings from the sheep in the above images should contact Ashburton police or call 105, and quote number: P053337873.

Car boot sale aims to support Mid Canty’s youth

“This small fundraiser will also create a new vibrancy within the town’s centre.

“By making use of the West Street carpark, we are ensuring a spirit of the event throughout the Ashburton District,” Cameron said.

Smith, who originates from Mid Canterbury, said with the Marsden Point refinery closed and New Zealand’s only other liquid CO2 plant in Taranaki mothballed for safety reasons, the domestic supply is becoming critical.

“CO2 is widely used in the manufacture of goods and the transport of perishable products by both importers and exporters,” he said.

“New Zealand urgently needs dry-ice, made from CO2 to transport perishable goods around the country and overseas.”

Cherries and strawberries are in their peak season and Smith said the shortage of CO2 could seriously damage an industry that’s already struggling through the pandemic.

“When Kiwis head to the check-out they will likely face higher prices for many goods,” Smith said.

Calling all young entrepreneurs.

The Ashburton Plains Rotary Club is starting up a monthly car boot sale to help highlight our youths’ talents.

Club president, Carolyn Cameron, said holding the monthly event would be a great way to revitalise the town’s spark and is an opportunity for people to sell off unwanted items or grant exposure to young entrepreneurs.

“In particular we want to give our youth the chance to make a start in their career supported by Ashburton’s community,” Cameron said.

Sellers will not only benefit from exposure for their small business for $20 per car boot, but create another way to meet like-minded people in the community.

All proceeds will go towards the Plains Rotary charitable trust, Cameron said, which funds many projects such as scholarships, grants and programmes to support all careers.

The first car boot sale will take place on February 5 from 10am-1pm, and then repeat once every month.

Cameron said she “looks forward to seeing our public support our aspiring youth in their future professions”.

PHOTO CANTERBURY POLICE

Ashburton Plains Rotary Club president Carolyn Cameron.

Stuart Smith

Charlotte Mulder

Three times per year: Yeah right

Jonathan Leask

KiwiRail says the Tinwald viaduct has been hit three times in each of the last three years but locals tell a different story, suggesting it’s more like three times a week and plenty more close calls.

And that, according to KiwiRail, makes it the second most hit rail bridge in the country.

But community feedback suggests the structure is hit much more often than is being reported to KiwiRail.

Tinwald resident Kevin Donaldson said he was aware of at least four bridge strikes in November and one near miss.

“That’s four hits in one month and that’s only the ones I know about,” Donaldson said.

He has lived in Tinwald for 40 years and said it’s a far-too regular occurrence.

“I wouldn’t be exaggerating in saying it’s hit, or there is a near miss, at least once a week.”

He’s seen campervans, horse

floats, trailers carrying machinery, delivery vans, and vehicles with bikes on the roof all hitting the bridge.

And it’s not all tourists.

“There has been a lot of locals and long-term residents hit it

over the years.”

The intersection is covered by three authorities, with State Highway 1 access and signage under Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, the bridge over the viaduct is KiwiRail, and the road

Prince’s autobiography selling like hotcakes

scription of Harry’s life including the grief of his mother, Princess Diana’s passing, his war experiences in Afghanistan, but mainly his turbulent relationship with the royal family.

through is the Ashburton District Council’s jurisdiction.

Donaldson said the authorities need to do more.

“The fact that it happens so often shows there is a fault with something.”

He believes a strike bar would be an ideal solution to provide an early warning system for motorists approaching the height restriction.

A number of other ideas have been put forward.

Restricting the access has been suggested as an easy fix and Waka Kotahi, as part of the upcoming Tinwald corridor upgrade, had proposed to close the access from SH1, making it left turn out only, but the weight of public feedback wanting the status quo has had Waka Kotahi hold off on any changes at the viaduct.

Digging the road out deeper has also been suggested, but at its current depth it is already frequently flooded in heavy rain events.

The council and Waka Kotahi are understood to be looking at ways to improve road safety around the Tinwald viaduct as part of the Tinwald corridor upgrade.

Prince Harry’s autobiography is flying off the shelves. His book Spare has piqued the interest of millions all over the world after being released last week, including the Ashburton community.

The book is a first-hand de-

been run off its feet trying to keep up with sales.

“We sold all 30 books of stock within the first day-and-a-half,” salesperson Norma Geddes said.

Ashburton Public Library manager, Jill Watson, said “the library knew the book would be in high demand so we bought five copies”.

“These copies have been reserved since we ordered them in, with another six on the waiting list,” she said.

Paper Plus Ashburton has also

“I’m not surprised at how popular it has been with the amount of publicity we have received.”

Both the Ashburton library and local bookshops have also seen demand increase in the well-known Black Fern Ruby Tui’s Straight Up autobiography.

“Paper Plus will continue to keep stocking Harry’s book until the sales plateau,” Geddes said.

“Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air”

Above – The Tinwald Viaduct. Right – A strike bar has been suggested as a good idea for the Tinwald viaduct.

Right – Paper Plus Ashburton salesperson Norma Geddes holds one of the few Prince Harry autobiographies as the book is flying off the shelves. PHOTO CHARLOTTE MULDER

Charlotte Mulder

February re-opening for centre

Malcolm Hopwood

Once a Methodist Church for 98 years, Baring Square Centre will officially reopen on Saturday, February 18.

The church closed following the 2010 earthquakes but, after a $3.3 million upgrade to meet strengthening requirements, the building will officially reopen as a multi-purpose centre.

It’s already been in use for Sunday services since November last year.

Steward, Alister Smyth, said the intention has been to redevelop the church as a facility for community meetings, performances and other gatherings.

“We’ve remodelled it as a centre for multi-use and February 18 will be an opportunity for the community to see the new facility,” he said. The centre seats about 150 people and has meetings rooms and kitchen facilities.

“With the civic complex opening later this year, we see it as a valuable resource alongside,” Smyth said.

Together with fellow steward, Judith Crozier, he is finalising a programme for the reopening. It will be conducted by national president of the Methodist Church of New Zealand, Rev Peter Taylor, a former minister at Baring Square, include Mayor Neil Brown and they hope former clergy and past members of the church will also return for the event.

People attending the re-opening are asked to respond by January 25.

Paying tribute to Lisa Marie Presley

They are both part of the applause that followed.

For the last few days John Lobb has been playing the 45, Don’t Cry Daddy, as part of his tribute to Lisa Marie Presley who died last week.

John and Donna Lobb were part of the audience in Memphis on April 16, 1997, when Lisa sang the track live with the voice of her father, Elvis Presley.

A recording was made of the duet which John and Donna possess.

John, who has one of the biggest collection of Elvis memorabilia in New Zealand, is now preparing his tribute to Lisa Marie. They include recordings, autographed photos she’s sent to him plus an original one-off pencil drawing of Elvia and Lisa Marie by American artist, Betty Harper.

It was on display in an exhibition in the US when John read about it and negotiated with the artist to buy the original.

Memories of watching Lisa Marie live and his life-time devotion to Elvis have flooded back over the last few days.

“I didn’t believe it when she died but she’d been having problems and illnesses over recent years,” he said. “I was saddened by her death. She’d had a troubled life, especially regarding her marriages.”

While John and Donna never met Lisa Marie, John has met Priscilla Presley, Lisa’s mother, during a visit to Memphis.

“She’d attended and spoken at an event across the road from Gracelands. Afterwards I joined a queue to meet her,” John recalls.

“I told her I was an Elvis enthusiast from New Zealand and she seemed surprised and pleased that Elvis’s popularity had extended that far.”

There’s also a personal connection between the Lobbs and the Presleys. Donna is the same age as Priscilla while daughter Diane, is 54, the age Lisa reached when she died.

The Elvis movie last year has seen a regular stream of visitors to John’s Tinwald exhibition and renewed his dedication to his display

“I’ve been updating the collection in recent days and weeks and now preparing my tribute to Lisa Marie,” he said.

“Elvis was an inspiration to me and the collection means so much, even more so now,” he said.

Left –

The only original in existence. John displays a pencil drawing of Lisa Marie Presley and her father, Elvis, that he purchased from American artist, Betty Harper.

Malcolm Hopwood

John Lobb holds an autographed photo of Lisa Marie Presley, one of several she sent to him.

Ashbur ton Toyota

Better Off Funding for new toilets

New toilets at Digby Park and money for new footpaths are among Council projects to benefit from $4.19 million received as part of the Three Waters Reform support package (termed Better Off Funding) from the Government.

Seven projects, including $2.3m to help relocate Ashburton’s rail freight hub to Fairton, received funding. The funds do not require Council to change its position on the reforms, which Council continues to actively oppose in their current form. Council applied for and has been given funds for the following projects:

• $2.3m for Fairfield Freight Hub – to help fund the relocation of the rail freight yard from the Ashburton town centre to a purpose-built facility at Fairton

• $900,000 for additional new footpaths

• $200,000 for urgent repairs to five playgrounds

• $190,000 for equipment in specialist spaces in the new Ashburton Public Library and Civic Centre

• $200,000 for changing rooms at the Rakaia and Hinds swimming pools, water treatment upgrades for all five district pools, and design work for a future upgrade of the Tinwald pool

• $150,000 to relocate the South African War Memorial from Baring Square East to Baring Square West, as part of a

ROAD WORKS NOTICES

Thompsons Track – current to 31 March. Thompsons Track between Winchmore Lauriston Road and Line Road is temporarily closed for roading maintenance and reseal works. Detour available.

Mayfield Valetta Road – current to 6 April. Mayfield Valetta Road between Tinwald Westerfield Mayfield Road and Anama Valetta Road is temporarily closed during the day for rehabilitation. Resident access remains, detour available.

Holmes Road – current to 17 March. Holmes Road between Mt Hutt Station Road and Barkers Road is closed for a full road reconstruction and drainage installation. Detour options available.

Railway Terrace East (Rakaia) –current to 28 February. Railway Terrace East from Rolleston Street to Bridge Street SH1 is temporarily closed for work associated with Waka Kotahi’s weigh bridge project.

Cass Street – 23 January to 30

January. The northbound lane of Cass Street between Victoria Street and Peter Street will be closed to enable an upgrade of power lines. Detours available.

View a map of all current and upcoming road closures in the district by going to our website ashburtondc.govt.nz

major redevelopment of Baring Square East

Business Support Group Manager Leanne

Macdonald said the various projects were now being advanced by staff.

“The projects had to meet certain criteria to qualify for funding, like being infrastructure that improves community wellbeing, or enabling growth, or supporting a move to a sustainable or low emissions economy.

“We will certainly put the funds to good use and these are projects that were outside our annual and long term plans.

“For example, significantly reduced Waka Kotahi funding for Low Cost Low Risk projects over recent years means we have

Neil Brown, Mayor

not been able to do as many new footpaths as we would like, but now we will be able to do this around the perimeters of Ashburton, Methven and Rakaia where there has been rapid urban growth.

“There are also some much-needed repairs at playgrounds in Methven, Mt Somers and Rakaia Huts.”

New toilets at Digby Park were asked for by the community during consultation on recent long-term and annual plans, and on the Play, Active Recreation and Sport Strategy.

The projects were all approved by the Department of Internal Affairs, which will monitor their progress and manage funding.

Backing for our community

The beginning of the year is a logical time to shake out your thoughts a bit and re-assess your position on key issues … sometimes we discover new information or circumstances change, and we must adapt.

One thing that hasn’t changed is my opposition to the commercial vehicle weigh stations that Waka Kotahi is planning to build just north of Rakaia. Council has opposed these on road safety grounds since they were first proposed several years ago.

Their plan is to build two stations - one for northbound traffic at Weavers Road (we don't oppose this one) and one for southbound traffic between the river and rail bridge (this one we oppose).

It makes no sense to have a slowmoving heavy truck pull out into a 100km/h or 80km/h zone after visiting the weigh station – that’s just an accident waiting to happen on an already-tricky piece of road.

Technically it might not be in the Ashburton District but the

consequences of a crash there will affect us, so you can be sure that I’ll be revisiting this issue again with Waka Kotahi soon.

Councillors will be back around the table next week for the first big budget workshop of the year. There will be plenty of information to digest and decisions about our district’s critical needs, wants or luxury items. I doubt we’ll be having many of the latter in this current economic climate with the cost of goods and services remaining high.

Community groups planning big or little projects might also feel the pinch and that is why they should take note that the next round of Council community grants opens in February.

The first cluster of grants includes financial help for community projects, biodiversity and heritage work, and new community events. In March, groups will be able to apply for financial help from a regional event fund, a mountain bike trail maintenance fund, the New Zealand Creative Communities Scheme and Sport New Zealand’s rural travel fund.

7pm - 8:30pm

Pool inflatables

27 JANUARY

Pool entry $4.50 children (8 - 18 years)

Adult supervision Advised.

Don’t be put off by the documentation required – that’s just our way of making sure we are accountable for the money handed out to community groups. Council staff are more than happy to answer questions about the process and give you a hand if needed, so have a look as your project may qualify.

The annual list of recipients is hugely varied, from money to support organisations like Ashburton District Neighbourhood Support to covering printing costs for the Methven Historical Society, or resource and building consent costs for the new walkway into Sharplin Falls.

Another project that you’ll be hearing more about soon is our involvement in the Mayors Taskforce For Jobs national project, which encourages local employers to take on local youth.

It will be a privilege giving my support to this new initiative, which comes with money from the Government to get it under way.

Rakaia presents new scene for tourists

PUBLIC NOTICES

PROPOSED ROAD CLOSURE

Ashburton District Council gives public notice of a proposal to temporarily close a road to ordinary vehicle traffic to enable the holding of a community event, Gravel Sprint Meeting.

• UPPER DOWNS ROAD, from Quarry Road to approximately #518 Upper Downs Road

Period of closure: From 8am to 6pm on Saturday, 18 February 2023

This proposed closure is made under the Local Government Act 1974 – Schedule 10 (11 (e) and will be considered at the next Council meeting on 1 February 2023. Any person objecting to the proposal should lodge a notice of their objection and grounds for their objection in writing by post or email to the Council, 5 Baring Square West, Ashburton by 4pm, Friday 20 January 2023.

The Rakaia Salmon Reserve on SH1 has gained two more colourful features that will help tourists discover more about the Ashburton District.

Two huge vinyl images have been fixed to the ends of the reserve’s new public toilets – one is an aerial shot of the iconic, braided Rakaia River and the other is a map of the district showing main roads and tourist attractions. Both images are about 2.7 metres x 2.5 metres and have been applied to the exterior walls of the building.

The artwork is a collaboration between Council and the Rakaia Lions, and both organisations have worked together over the past two years to revitalise the reserve, which is famous for its giant fibreglass salmon.

The transformation over time has included the new public conveniences, which are some of the flashest and busiest in the district, and an historical walk with interpretive signs that tell the story of Rakaia.

The historic panels cover a range of topics,

from facts about the nearby Rakaia River to early inhabitants of the town and how the surrounding land is farmed. The first settlers had to navigate the tricky Rakaia River before rail and road bridges were built, and many drowned in its fast-flowing waters.

The new artwork was installed recently by Juice Signs on behalf of Council.

The photograph of the river was taken by Methven photographer Bill Irwin and it shows the winding shingle riverbed and channels. The map shows Mid Canterbury from the sea to the mountains and highlights main travel routes and other towns and tourist attractions.

Tourists can also see features of the Ashburton Lakes / Ōtuwharekai, where the national walking trail Te Araroa crosses the district, and the location of the Mt Somers track.

Council’s Democracy and Engagement

Group Manager Toni Durham said the artwork had been attracting lots of positive attention since it was installed.

“Rakaia is the gateway to the Ashburton District from Christchurch International Airport and this project helps people navigate their journey along the coast or inland to the high country.

“Creating images of that size for printing was a challenge, and Council staff spent a lot of time making sure the images were sharp and the information accurate.

“The Rakaia Lions have provided information, labour and plenty of passion for the reserve’s redevelopment too, so it’s been a really good collaboration.”

Another new facility opened in Rakaia recently to help tourists and travellers is the motor caravan wastewater dump station at the end of Ferguson Street, on land between Railway Terrace and the railway lines.

Contract awarded for Baring Square redo

A $2.45 million contract to redevelop Baring Square East has been awarded to Tru-Line Civil, the same contractor who worked on the revitalisation of Ashburton’s CBD. The square redevelopment involves creating a new one-way road with angle parking in front of the new library and civic building, and a major replant and renovation of the square itself.

Infrastructure and Open Spaces Group Manager Neil McCann said the work would breathe new life into the area, while retaining some original features of the space, like the whale bones, oval path and water feature. The town’s clock also stays.

“As part of the redevelopment work we will also be moving the Boer War Memorial to Baring Square West. We applied for resource consent to relocate the memorial and that has been granted.”

Relocating the war memorial will be undertaken by specialists and it will be moved across the rail tracks to Baring Square West, where Ashburton’s other main war memorials are located.

“We’ve consulted with the community over this sensitive relocation and have included the advice of heritage experts in the moving plan that has been approved,” Mr McCann said.

The $2.45m contract to redevelop the square was awarded to Tru-Line Civil at Council’s December meeting. The work is designed to complement the revitalised CBD and the new library and civic building currently under construction.

TRIENNIAL MEETINGS

Alford Forest Reserve BoardTuesday 24 January, 7.30pm in the Alford Forest hall

Rakaia Memorial Hall - Wednesday 1 February, 7pm in the hall supper room

Mayfield Reserve and Hall Board - Tuesday 28 March, 7.30pm at the Mayfield hall

COUNCIL MEETINGS

Meetings are held in the Council Chambers, 137 Havelock Street, (unless otherwise advised).

Ashburton Water Zone Committee

- Tuesday 24 January, 2pm (livestreamed)

Budget Workshop - Thursday 26 January, 10.30am

Methven Community BoardMonday 30 January, 10.30am at Mt Hutt Memorial Hall Council Meeting - Wednesday 1 February, 1pm (live-streamed)

Budget Workshop - Thursday 2 February, 10.30am

Road Safety Co-ordinating Committee - Tuesday 7 February, 9.30am

Biodiversity Advisory GroupTuesday 7 February, 1pm

Council Activity BriefingsWednesday 4 February, 9.30am (live-streamed)

Audit & Risk CommitteeWednesday 4 February, 1.30pm (live-streamed)

Council Meeting - Wednesday 15 February, 1pm (live-streamed)

Council Agencies (6 month report presentations) - Wednesday 22 February, 9.30am

The iconic Rakaia River, captured by Methven photographer Bill Irwin, is a new attraction in the Rakaia Salmon Reserve off State Highway 1.

NEIL McCANN Group Manager Infrastructure and Open Spaces

RantorRave

CONTACTS

News tips

Call 03 307-7969

After hours news tips malcolm.h@theguardian. co.nz

Advertising

Call 03 307-7976

sonia.g@theguardian.co.nz

Classifieds Call 03 3077-900

classifieds@theguardian. co.nz

Missed paper Call 03 3077-900

MEDIA COUNCIL

This newspaper is subject to the New Zealand Media Council.

■ Complaints must first be directed in writing to editor@ theguardian.co.nz

■ If unsatisfied, the complaint may be referred to the Media Council, PO Box 10879, The Terrace, Wellington 6143 or email info@presscouncil.org.nz

■ Further detail and an online complaints form are available at www.mediacouncil. org.nz

LETTERS

We welcome your letters and emails, but:

■ No more than 100 words.

■ We reserve the right to edit or not publish.

A marketing opportunity on our own back doorstep

What’s good for the goose has always been good for the gander and we should always remember that.

First-term councillor Tony Todd’s comments earlier this week about Ashburton being much more than just a pit-stop town that’s only good for a stretch of the legs and grabbing something to eat and little else hits the right notes.

It’s been long felt that the main town in our district is a little bit of an after-thought when it comes to suitable places to stop along people’s travels and anything we can do to change that should be welcomed and encouraged.

What I would say however, that

what’s a little off the mark is to look at Ashburton and Methven as rivals in the tourism market. We are one district and one district only.

But before we start dipping into the pockets and spending up large on the tourism advertising and promotions of Ashburton externally, what about looking a little closer to home to see if that can get the wheels in motion.

In this day and age people want real life experiences from like-minded people, not just pictures on a billboard or a targeted marketing campaign splashed across every major airport in the country.

Russell Ellis followed up Tony Todd’s comments with an equally salient point about Methven being Mid Canterbury’s little crown jewel when it comes to tourism, so why not utilise that already existing resource much better.

Perhaps I’m not looking in the right places, but I’ve lived in Methven for a while now and rarely, if at all, have I seen any promotional material or marketing of such to those who choose

to eat, sleep and play under the mountain to entice them to jump in the car and drive the 20 minutes to Ashburton.

There’s no piece of paper hanging on my wall that says I’m a master at marketing or tourism, but surely using an already existing vibrant potential customer base who have the power to market to the world through the use of social media these days is a no-brainer.

They flock to the district for the skifield each year and spend days and dollars within the Methven township. What if that money was, in part, transferred to the wider district. Mt Hutt isn’t open every day of the winter. There are opportunities to get

out and explore for those who are staying in the township.

A visit to the Plains Museum, the Art Gallery or even just a stop in at a local café or restaurant after a day of exploring – the options are endless.

We do need to market our region better because we rely too much on riding in on the coat tails of Mt Hutt and now the Opuke Thermal Pools and Spa when there’s a whole breadth of other travellers out there who could be keen to step inside our backdoor and have a look around.

But use what we’ve got better first. It’s there, it’s ours and if we don’t use it, someone else nearby quickly will.

Matt Markham

PlayPlanner

whatson@theguardian.co.nz

Every day

Mt Hutt Memorial Hall

10am, 160 Main Street, Methven. NZ Alpine and Agriculture Encounter, Art Gallery and Hall of Memories.

Ashburton Aviation Musuem

1-3pm, Ashburton Airport, Seafield Road.

Weekdays

Mid Canterbury Connector

Provides low-cost return trips to Ashburton, Mondays to Fridays, any time between 9am and 4.30pm.

Ashburton Aviation Museum

1-3pm. Ashburton Airport, Seafield Road.

Mondays

Age Concern Ashburton

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at 10am.

Ashburton Bridge Club

1.05pm, Bridge Club Rooms, 79 Alford Forest Road.

Ashburton Community Walking

Group

Mondays and Fridays at 10.30am. Walnut Avenue Pavilion.

Ashburton Pipe Band practice

Pipe Band rooms, Every Monday, 7.30pm onwards.

MSA Dance Section

Monday 4.00pm to 6.00pm. All welcome at the MSA Havelock St.

Tuesdays

Ashburton Menz Shed 9am-2pm at 8 William Street.

Age Concern Ashburton

Steady as you Go Gentle Falls Prevention Exercises. All levels of ability are welcome. $2 per 1hr session.

Held at Methven All Saints Anglican Church Chapman St at 10.30am, starting February 7.

Rakaia St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Bridge St at 1.00pm.

MSA Tai Chi

Classes at 11am. Cost $3 per session at the MSA on Havelock Street.

Justice of the Peace

JP available for all signing services on Tuesdays and Fridays at 12pm-2pm. No appointment necessary. No fee. Community House, 44 Cass St.

RSA Indoor Bowls

Every Tuesday at 12.45. RSA in the Doris Linton Lounge. $2, followed by a cuppa & chat.

Pickleball Ashburton

EA Networks Centre from 5-7pm. Paddles provided.

Mid Canterbury Badminton Club Badminton Club night from 7-9pm. All abilities welcome at EA Networks Centre.

Waireka Croquet  Club

Draw 9.45am GC Handicap Singles. Ist Tuesday in the Month Handicap Singles 19 hoops. Draw 1.15pm. Singles Handicaps -0 5; 6-9; 10-16.

Wednesdays

Ashburton Menz Shed 9am-2pm at 8 William Street.

Ashburton Ladies Friendship Club 9.45am, Sinclair Centre. Speeches, morning tea, every fourth Wednesday of the month.

Wednesday Walk Group 9.30am. Meet Walnut Avenue on the west side of the Ashburton College Auditorium entrance.

Age Concern Ashburton

Steady as you Go Gentle Falls Prevention Exercises. All levels of ability are welcome. $2 per 1hr session.

What’s on Where

• Held at Allenton St David’s Church, Allens Road at 9.30am.

Pickleball Ashburton

Every Wednesday from 9.30am - 11.30am at EA Networks Centre.

St Stephen’s Anglican Church Holy Communion at 10am on Park Street.

Age Concern Ashburton

Programme for the elderly runs Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at 10am.

Hip Hop for Seniors

10am-11am at the Ashburton Seniors Centre, 206 Cameron Street, Ashburton, $5. Ashburton open coffee mornings

All are welcome at the Plunket rooms, 222 Cameron Street. 10.30am - 12 noon.

Thursdays

Ashburton Bridge Club

Every Thursday, 7.05pm, Bridge Club rooms, 79 Alford Forest Road.

Ashburton Menz Shed 9am-2pm at 8 William Street.

Age Concern Ashburton

Ladies exercise class at 9.30am at Ashburton Seniors Centre at 206 Cameron Street.

Mid Canterbury Badminton Club 9.30am-11am at EA Networks Sports Centre.

MSA Tai Chi

Classes at 11am. Cost $3 per session at the MSA on Havelock Street.

Age Concern Ashburton

Steady as you Go Gentle Falls Prevention Exercises. All levels of ability are welcome. $2 per 1hr session.

• Ashburton St Stephen’s Church, Park Street at 1pm.

• Ashburton Buffalo Lodge Rooms, Cox Street at 1pm.

Fridays

Ashburton Community Walking Group

Walking for about 30-40 minutes on Mondays and Fridays at 10.30am. Meet Walnut Avenue Pavilion.

St Stephen’s Anglican Church

Seniors Coffee Club, 2nd and 4th of the month at 10.30am, St Stephen’s Parish Centre, Park St. Ashburton Justice of the Peace

JP available for all signing services from 12-2pm. No appointment necessary. No fee. Community House. 44 Cass Street.

Pickleball Ashburton

EA Networks Centre from 6-8pm. Paddles provided.

Saturdays

Ashburton Farmers Market

Saturday mornings, 9am-12.30pm, north end West Street car park. Plants, hot and cold food, vegetables.

Ashburton Aviation Museum

Ashburton Airport from 10am - 3pm.

Ashburton Woodworkers Clubrooms at Plains Museum site 1pm-4pm.

Seventh-Day Adventist Church

10am, Weekly worship & Bible Study.

11am, Sabbath singing & Sermon.

At Grace Presbyterian Church building, 63 Princes St. Ashburton. All welcome!

Vintage Car Club

The museum and parts shed, 86 Maronan Road, Tinwald, will be open ONLY on the following Saturdays during the month of January, 2023

(times 10am to 12 noon):

January 14, 21, 28.

Waireka Croquet Club

AC Singles or Doubles. Draw 9.45 and 12.45, GC

Draw 1.15 pm Doubles. New players welcome, mallets available.

Sundays

Ashburton Anglican Parish

Sunday - St Stephen’s Anglican Church, Park St, 10 am. Holy Communion

Sunday - St Andrew’s Anglican Church, Thomson St. 10 am. Holy Communion, 2nd & 4th Sundays of the month

St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church

Sunday January 1, 2023: 10am Combined Service at St Andrew’s. Service led by Rev. Eric Mattock. All welcome. Sinclair Centre, Park Street.

Grace Presbyterian Church

10am at 63 Princes Street.

Hakatere Presbyterian Parish

We have several combined services in January and this is the service schedule –

Sunday January 15 – joining in a Combined Service at 10am at Baring Square Methodist Church.

Sunday January 22 – Combined service - 10am at 65 Oxford Street – led by Rev. Johanna Warren.

Sunday January 29 – joining in a Combined Service at 10am at St Andrews, Park Street.

Each week from Sunday February 5 – Morning Worship at 10am. All welcome. 65 Oxford Street.

St Paul’s Church, Mid Canterbury CCAANZ

Chertsey Community Hall, Chertsey Line Road, Chertsey, 10am Sunday. Communion 1st and 3rd Sundays. “Knowing Jesus and making Jesus known”.

Pickleball Ashburton

Sunday is organised competition day at EA Networks Stadium from 5-7pm. Prior registration through our facebook page is required. Some courts are available for social play.

Every Monday and Saturday

Allenton Assn Croquet Club

Venue Allenton Sports Club. Monday, Saturday. Start every week Monday September 19 until March 27 2023. Starting time 1.15pm.

Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday

Methven Croquet Club

We play croquet every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 1.30pm at the Methven Domain. All welcome to come along.

Ashburton MSA Petanque Club

115 Racecourse Road, Ashburton. Please be there by 1pm to play off at 1.15pm each day. All welcome. Equipment and tuition available.

Every Tuesday and Friday

Methven Museum – Christmas Display

60 Main St, Methven. Open Tuesday and Friday 2-4pm. Believe it or not an orange was once a treat as were nuts. Many families could only afford these treats if they saved up all year. Come to the museum and see what gifts were given at Christmas of yesteryear, and what decorations were put up in the home. There are puzzles for the children to do and the history of Methven is on display. Admission is free but donations are welcome.

Every Thursday and Saturday

Ashburton Toy Library

Open every Thursday and Saturday from 9.30am-12.30pm, plus every alternate Tuesday 3.30pm-5pm at 106 Victoria Street.

Every Wednesday, Saturday

Allenton Golf Croquet Club

Wednesdays & Saturdays. Start every week from Wednesday September 21 2022 until March 29 2023, starting time 9.45am.

Last Sunday of every month

Nor’Westers Muso’s Club

All are welcome, as is any style of music. 2pm6pm at Feeneys Lounge, Devon Tavern.

First Sunday of every month

Methven Market

At Methven Resort, from 9am to 1pm.

Third Monday of every month

The Ashburton Electronic Organ & Keyboard Club meets on the third Monday of every month (except December/January) at Seniors Centre, 206 Cameron Street at 7.30pm

Second Fri of every month

In Colour, art and craft club

Bring along your art and craft projects to share with others over morning tea once a month. 10.30am - 12 noon.

Second and fourth Friday of every month

St Stephen’s Anglican Church

Seniors Coffee Club 10.30am on Park Street.

Monthly

Ashburton Embroiderers’ Guild

Meet Seniors Centre, 206 Cameron Street first Saturday of the month 10.30am-3.30pm, second Thursday of the month 1pm-3.30pm, third Tuesday of the month -9pm, and the fourth Thursday of the month 10.30am-3.30pm.

January events

St David’s Union Church

Sunday 22nd January, 9.30 am, St David’s Union Church. Worship Service led by Rev Henry Mbambo. 48 Allens Road, Ashburton

Tuesday, 24th January, 9.30 am. St David’s Union Church. Walking Group meets outside church. 48 Allens Road.

Run and Walk Ashburton

Summer Park Series, Run or Walk, 1, 3, 5km. January 17 to February 21, Tuesday, 6pm start. Ashburton Domain, Walnut Avenue Pavilion. Adults $2, under 18 free. Everyone welcome –all ages, all abilities, walker or runner.

Ashburton Horticultural Society (Garden Group)

Friday January 20, Meeting 2pm at Domain Pavilion, Walnut Avenue. New members welcome.

Waireka Croquet Club

Philip Street. Tuesdays, Waireka Croquet Club GC Draw 9.45am and 1.15 Singles.

The Plains Railway Precinct

The Plains Railway Precinct is Open on Sunday, January 22, from 11am - 4pm. Vintage Railcar Rides, miniature Train Rides & Popup Playground (Weather permitting), browse through the Ashburton Fire Museum, Lynn Museum and Village buildings. Vintage Machinery displays, watch a Blacksmith crafting. Hot Food & coffee available. Located in the Tinwald Domain, 62 Maronan Rd, Ashburton.

Vintage Car Club

The museum and parts shed, 86 Maronan Road, Tinwald, will be open ONLY on the following Saturdays during the month of January, 2023 (times 10am to 12 noon):

January 28.

February events

Craft Cluster Workshop

Monday February 6, 10am, at the Plains Museum.

PLEASE NOTE

Send all details to: whatson@ theguardian.co.nz

IMPORTANT: If you’re running a regular event, we only need to hear from you when you have CHANGES to this regular event.

TEST YOURSELF

Test yourself with the Guardian’s quiz

1. Where was Nick Kyrgios born?

a) Greece

b) Spain

c) Australia

2. How old was Lisa Marie Presley when she died?

a) 61

b) 54

c) 52

3. What is a baby koala called?

a) Cub

b) Pup

c) Joey

4. In what year was the Treaty of Waitangi signed

a) 1830

b) 1850

c) 1840

5. What population is required to make a city in New Zealand?

a) 30,000

b) 50,000

c) 75,000

6. Which actor has not played Doctor Who?

a) David Tennant

b) Simon Pegg

c) Christopher Eccleston

7. Where were the 1984 Olympics held?

a) Los Angeles

b) New York

c) Montreal

8. When did filming begin for the Lord of the Rings?

a) 1997

b) 2001

c) 1999

Barbecued tomato skewers – tomato, tofu and mushroom

These easy barbecue skewers are a crowd-pleaser and easy to substitute with whatever vegetables you have to hand.

Serves 4

8-10 bamboo skewers (allow 1-2 per person)

1 punnet cherry tomatoes (approx. 180 to 250g)

100g tofu

8-10 button mushrooms (approx. 400g)

3 t soy sauce

1 T sesame oil

Oil to brush on barbecue hotplate

■ Soak bamboo skewers in cold water for at least 30 minutes. Slice tomatoes in half. Cut tofu into 1cm slices then slice again into small squares (approx. 1.5cm square). Slice mushrooms in half.

■ Thread each skewer with a cherry tomato, piece of tofu, then mushroom and repeat. Whisk together the soy sauce and sesame oil then brush over the skewers.

■ Heat a barbecue hot plate to a high temperature and add a little oil. Lay the skewers on the hotplate and cook for around 8 – 10 minutes turning occasionally.

This lovely home is ideal for the family providing four bedrooms and secure grounds all within close proximity to Allenton School.

This quality 1960s home provides comfortable living with feature high ceilings plus many benefits of a modern home including double glazing, heat pumps, HRV plus log fire.

Two bathrooms are ideal for a

Road,

family and have recently been renovated including tiled floors and walls with finishing to an excellent standard. Well-presented grounds and sunny north-facing living with a covered outdoor entertaining area is perfect for all occasions.

Internal access garage with storeroom plus exceptional cupboard storage is most convenient.

Viewing:

OPEN HOME

Brand New And Waiting For You

163A William Street, ASHBURTON

This brand new build is now ready for new owners. The home has two bathrooms and three double bedrooms, master with en suite. Open plan living heated with a heat pump. Fabulous style kitchen with modern features and ample storage. The garage is a generous size with loft storage and laundry. Easy care section with new landscaping and concrete paths for easy access.

By Negotiation Web ID AUE3125730

View: Saturday, 10am - 10.30am

Fabulous Opportunity

17 Brucefield Avenue, NETHERBY

Fabulous location, walking distance to local shops, schools and Ashburton Domain. This wee beauty is waiting for new owners with three double bedrooms, open plan new kitchen and living room heated with a log burner plus an outdoor covered area to relax in. Separate toilet, new bathroom and separate laundry room. Partially fenced, single carport and plenty of off-street parking.

By Negotiation Web ID AUE3529744 View: Saturday, 10am - 10.30am

Brand New and Coming Soon

19A Baker Street, ALLENTON

Tucked away in a private rear section, this home will be brand new. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, master with en suite and WIR. Open plan kitchen, dining and living areas perfectly positioned for the sun and heated with a heat pump. There is a separate laundry as you walk through to the double garage. The property will be easy care with room for off-street parking.

Offers Over: $675,000 Web ID AUW3376570

View: Saturday, 10.45am - 11.15am

Room For Everyone

138 Thomson Street, TINWALD

This gorgeous home offers so much with impressive off-street parking, a double car garage with internal access to the house and a double carport. Open plan kitchen/living room with double doors opening to an easy care backyard and a covered private entertaining area. Kitchen with double dish drawers, wall oven, cooktop plus a skylight. Four bedrooms, three doubles, built-in wardrobes, one single. A must view!

Offers Over: $565,000 Web ID AUT3487447

View: Saturday, 11.30am - 12 noon

A Piece of Paradise

1 Torbay Avenue, HUNTINGDON

Fabulous lifestyle living at the lake, this could be perfect for you and your family. Open plan modern kitchen and dining/living room with heat pump and log burner plus a separate lounge to escape to. Four double bedrooms, master with en suite and WIR and sliding doors opening to a lovely patio area. Established gardens, stunning barbecue area plus a work shed.

Offers over: $750,000 Web ID AUH3526000

View: Saturday, 2.30pm - 3pm

OPEN HOME

Don't Delay This Opportunity

29 Burrowes Road, RAKAIA

A relocated home is ready for new owners. A fabulous opportunity to buy a four bedroom home, three doubles, one single, all with built-in wardrobes. Open plan modern kitchen/living area, double glazing and panel heaters, one bathroom, separate toilet, laundry positioned behind cupboard doors. Single car garage, with off-street parking and easy care gardens. This home is positioned for the sun with a good size back yard.

By Negotiation Web ID RUE3532975

View: Saturday, 2.30pm - 3pm

A Family Dream Opportunity

121 Racecourse Road, ALLENTON

Set on a beautifully established 2786m2 section sits this well-appointed large family home. Six bedrooms, two bathrooms and two toilets in the home, one bedroom sleepout with bathroom and toilet. Bright and sunny kitchen with all the modern conveniences is central to the spacious living and dining. Three heat pumps, two in the home, one in the sleepout. Double garage, large spacious garden shed and separate workshop.

Offers over: $815,000 Web ID AUW3449919

View: Saturday, 10am - 10.30am

Character Beauty

24 Wakanui Road, HAMPSTEAD

Do not miss your opportunity to view this gorgeous family home on an 1868m2 section. Many classic features including ornate fireplaces and beautifully in-built furniture. With three bedrooms and numerous options for living this property will appeal to many. Two heat pumps, log burner plus some underfloor heating. A workshop and hobby room added attractions.

Offers Over: $595,000 Web ID AUE3482309

View: Saturday, 11.30am - 12 noon

Options Are Endless

79 Chertsey Line Road, CHERTSEY

Currently used as a residence this property provides endless options. The current zoning of Business A permits many uses from retail, hospitality, community, residential and commercial activities including visitor accommodation. This two storey building provides up to eight upstairs bedrooms and large bar and lounge downstairs. One 2464m2 title with spacious grounds, swimming pool and storage sheds.

Excellent prominence from SH1.

By Negotiation Web ID CU3029266

View: Saturday, 12.30pm - 1pm

Charming and Picturesque

12 Ferrier Place, TINWALD Open plan living room with a sliding door onto a sunny verandah for you to enjoy the quiet peaceful surroundings and overlook the gardens. Three good size bedrooms, one bathroom. The backyard is suitable for family and pets to enjoy. The property has a double car garage and off street parking.

By Negotiation Web ID AUT3558096

Perfectly Finished

31 Willow Street, HAMPSTEAD

This newly renovated home has been finished to perfection and the neutral colours will appeal to many. Spacious open plan kitchen and living with bifold doors opening onto a sunny deck that flows onto the private and safe backyard. Just a two minute walk to the Beach Road shops and close to schools and preschools. Enquire today to view this wee gem.

Offers Over: $395,000 Web ID AUE3524159

Ideal Lifestyle Opportunity

Lot 4, Boundary Road Magnificent mountain views will appeal. Secure your dream build with this 8ha bare land lifestyle block. Close to Ashburton town boundary, Tinwald shopping centre, Tinwald School and Lake Hood. Sealed road access to the property boundary is beneficial. Larger land holdings like this close to town don’t come up often. Contact us today to make sure you don’t miss this opportunity.

Price: $575,000 Web ID AR3100427

All About Location

6 Filey Place, ALLENTON

This four bedroom family property is located in a quiet cul-de-sac in Allenton. The open plan kitchen, dining and living room plus a separate lounge provides space for the whole family. The master has an en suite and walk-in robe. The other three bedrooms are all doubles and are serviced by a family bathroom and separate toilet. Ample storage and a separate laundry. There are two outdoor patio areas along with a gorgeous garden.

By Negotiation Web ID AUW3389393

Opportunity Knocks!

69 Eton Street, HAMPSTEAD

Don't look past an opportunity that allows you to choose your own path! With options of subdividing, buying your first home or investing, 69 Eton has come up with the goods! Set on a 916m2 section you will find a split stone home with three double bedrooms plus a large garage with games room or workshop attached. Call today!

Offers Over: $415,000 Web ID AUE3478119

Thinking of Building in Methven?

Lot 156, Camrose Estate, METHVEN

Here is a fabulous opportunity to build your holiday or dream home in the stunning rural town of Methven. We have a section on offer in the popular Camrose Estate subdivision. Lot 156 is a generous 1080m2 bare land section. Title is expected April/May 2023 (to be confirmed). Opuke Thermal Pools and Spa is right on your doorstep. Don’t miss this opportunity!

By Negotiation Web ID MU3549131

LEASED

65 Tancred Street, ASHBURTON

LEASED

186 East Street, ASHBURTON

Hampstead 115 Trevors Road

Ashburton 114 Albert Street

Open Home

Open Home

Tinwald 70 Nursery Drive

Open Home

Netherby 18 Connor Place

Open Home

Easy care + super sunny!

Something special here

Not often does a property like this come along, a spacious modern home with the bonus of a large shed, perfect for extra garaging, storage and a workshop. Built in 2006, this much loved home provides relaxed easy living in a stunning park like setting. Everything about this home speaks space.

For Sale Buyers $768,000+ View Sat 21 Jan 10.00 - 10.30am Web pb.co.nz/AU97002

3+ 2 4

Hampstead 37 Suffolk Street

Open Home

Great wee lifestyle starter

A wee gem

Slice of paradise

Offers closing 4pm, 1st February.

The property ladder awaits those first home buyers who are looking for a special first home or for the person who is looking for privacy. This immaculately maintained property nestled on a rear section has so much to offer.

For Sale Buyers $468,000+

View Sat 21 Jan 11.00 - 11.30am Web pb.co.nz/AU109033

3 1 1 1

Ashburton 22 Hakatere Drive Open Home

Move in ASAP

Enjoy the

For Sale $650,000 View Sat 21 Jan 10.30 - 11.15am Web pb.co.nz/AL113935

This cosy three bedroom plus office permanent material home has an open plan living/kitchen/dining area flowing out to the north facing deck and colonial style verandah. Located just a few minutes from town allowing the best of country living. 3

Allenton 16 Glassey Drive

Tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this townhouse has been completely refreshed on the exterior. Newly painted tile roof and cladding makes this property, along with its manicured gardens, a real stand out. Double garaging with the laundry incorporated. Three bedrooms with two being doubles and the main bedroom with access to the central bathroom.

For Sale Buyers $590,000+ View Sat 21 Jan 10.45 - 11.15am Web pb.co.nz/AU110068

3 1 1 2

Allenton 53 Harrison Street

Open Home

Open Home

Modern character

A superb property with plenty of appeal- character throughout with T & G ceilings, bridgebeams and loads of charm. Modern open plan kitchen/dining stepping down to the lounge which opens to the courtyard. Enjoy the second living area which opens through to the spa/gym room.

For Sale Buyers $730,000+ View Sat 21 Jan 11.30 - 12.00pm Web pb.co.nz/AU111634

4 2 2

Vendors downsizing

Our vendors are motivated and ready for new owners to take over this spacious property in the heart of Allenton. With its two large living areas, spacious three bedrooms plus sleepout, this home has been lovingly improved over the years featuring double glazing, three heat pumps, central log fire with heat transfer.

For Sale Buyers $679,000+ View Sat 21 Jan 11.30 - 12.00pm Web pb.co.nz/AU108835

4 1 2 2

For Sale Buyers $510,000+ View Sat 21 Jan 10.00 - 10.30am Web pb.co.nz/AU114592

Sited well to catch the sun, this home is in a popular cul-de-sac and handy to town and schooling. Three spacious bedrooms with built in robes, open plan living area with modernised kitchen, diesel fire and opening to a private patio area. Excellent garaging for three cars plus a workshop and plenty of off street parking. 3 1 3

Allenton 10 Davidson Street

Open Home

A home to impress

This immaculately presented home in Allenton offers much more than just good looks! New carpet and repainted interior mean the best years are still yet to come for this property. Four double bedrooms are complemented by large robes and the office with built in furniture is a bonus as could also be used as a second living area.

For Sale Buyers $665,000+ View Sat 21 Jan 10.45 - 11.15am Web pb.co.nz/AU112970

4+ 1 1 2

Ashburton 14 Hakatere Drive Open Home

Sea views, village setting

Upper Hakatere - a peaceful village offering community and tranquillity with sea views right from your kitchen. Privately nestled away, this unique two bedroom home offers a spacious lounge with heat pump and log fire, separate kitchen with great storage and indoor outdoor living with covered BBQ area the whole family can enjoy - all on a Freehold title.

For Sale $335,000 View Sat 21 Jan 1.00 - 1.30pm Web pb.co.nz/AL107740

Emotional victory on home soil

Victories don’t come much more emotional than this.

When Lawrence McCormick, wearing a black armband, won with Vertigo at Ashburton on Tuesday afternoon it was a poignant and overwhelming moment for the Mid Canterbury trainer-driver.

Moved to tears, McCormick looked to the skies and made a salute, dedicating the victory to three-year-old Effie Hurley, who had died just days earlier.

Effie’s parents Shaun and Symone Hurley and their family are close to the McCormicks.

“We’d all been camping together at Cromwell over the New Year.”

“He’s one of my best mates,” McCormick says of Shaun, “we played rugby together and have known each other forever.”

“Just days ago the kids were playing dolls together.”

McCormick says the death is unexplained after a medical event earlier this month. To everyone it is still very raw.

“I knew they (the Hurley family) would be watching it (the race) on TV at home - it was so special.”

McCormick felt he had a great chance after Vertigo began like a bullet and then took the trail.

“I knew she’d be tough to beat from there because she has such high speed.”

And win she did, by five lengths, w ith McCormick visibly moved as he returned to the birdcage.

Commentator Justin Evans was clearly affected too as he described the concluding stages of the race. “Lawrence McCormick with a little angel called Effie on his shoulder wins, well done, it’s an emotional

victory – it’s as special as it gets.”

It was Vertigo’s third win in 27 starts.

But it was so much more than that.

It was also a day of doubles for the McCormick family with Lawrence’s father, David also tasting success earlier in the day

Ashburton gallops

with Maui.

After some below-par form over recent months the son of Peak, who sired all four trotting winners on the card, looked right back to his best winning impressively.

The win continued a fond association

M8

with Ashburton for Maui.

He’s raced on the home track on six occasions now for three wins, a third and two fourths.

Tuesday’s win was the seventh of his career and came at start 50.

Blenheim harness

Boy Ben Hope

73312 Ginas Majesty I R Cameron

x0000 Make My Day

Gill Matt Markham’s Blenheim Selections Race 1: Didjabringthebubbles, Bevron, Easy McCartney, Rose Isle

Race 2: Bad Hombre, Cougar Express, Montoya, Archie

Race 3: Kilauea, Franco Tim, So Rock Around, Oh My Love

Race 4: Speciale Uno, Tane JJ, Buddy Reign, Manzini

Race 5: Excuse My French, Heston Hall, Sioux Princess, Franco Josiah

Race 6: Songbird, Ultimate Bird, He’s Santas Excuse, Beyond A Shadow

Race 7: Tremendous Lover, Razor’s Edge, Stanley’s Rule, Rocknroll Diva

Race 8: First Class, Sargent Best, Kowhai Shadow, J R Bromac

Race 9: Poetry In Motion, Morries Girl, I’m Your Huckleberry, Georgie Zukov

Race 10: Get Up N Dance, Artatac, Homebush Lad, Dashing Major

Race 11: Buffy Northstains, Sods Law, Ginas Majesty, Rush

BEST BET: First Class (Race 8)

VALUE: Speciale Uno (Race 4)

Lawrence McCormick points to the sky as Vertigo grabs an emotion-charged win at Ashburton on Tuesday.

Ashburton Bowling Club

Before the Christmas break, Ashburton Club bowlers featured well in the Friday Triples at Allenton on the 16th December. Those successful were: 1st: D Kinvig, D Prendergast, P Quinn with 3 wins, 3rd: R McGarry, L Spargo, H Goodall with 2.5 wins, 4th: M Hill, P Collins, T Pearce with 2.5 wins. Well done all!

Our 2023 campaign began with the Inhouse Murray Grey triples at 5.30pm on the 9th January and was played on a lovely evening. The placing were as follows: 1st: T Blain, W Lee, M Watson –

2 wins, 10 ends, 2nd: K Walker, R Keeling

– 2 wins, 9 ends, 3rd: G Taylor, P Quinn, A Gibbs – 1 win, 10 ends.

Our first home Friday triples of 2023, sponsors Toyota & Skip 2 it, was played on the 13th January.

The placings are:

1st: M Quinn, G Dowie, W Watson – 3 wins, 17 ends, 29 points, 2nd: A Miller, M Grice, B Ewing – 3 wins, 14 ends, 29 points, 3rd: G Bishop, J Ford, B Molloy – 2 wins, 16 ends, 27 points, 4th: L Kearns, J Bell, D Bell – 2 wins, 15 ends, 27 points, 5th: G Taylor, C Leech, R Keeling – 2 wins, 15 ends, 26 points, 6th: M Hill, P Collins, T Pearce – 2 wins, 15 ends, 21 points. And at our first 2023 Saturday rollover triples on the 14th January, a small group assembled. The winners were T Blain, A Gibbs, T Watson, W Lee with 3 wins and 12 ends. So, a very happy New Year everyone and good bowling to you all!

Ashburton Bridge Club

Many bridge hands are played in part contracts which means that from the bidding sequence the partnership realises that they do not have enough points to bid to a game contract.

A successful game contract generates a much better score, but an unsuccessful game contract can gift the opposition a positive score that they possibly should not get.

This deal from Summer Bridge is a good example of a part contract.

Dealer, East will open 1 N.T. with 13 points and South, with a very distributional hand will overcall 2 Diamonds that could well be the final contract, but some Easts may compete with 2 Spades pushing South to 3 Diamonds.

The two options for West’s opening lead are a Spade or a Club. If a Club is led South will get a Club ruff at trick 2 and must immediately look to get to dummy with a Spade finesse, which will lose to East’s K. East can now switch to a Heart or play another Club.

Playing a Heart will give West his Heart

A, and his best return is another Club, as a Heart will set up dummy’s 10 of Hearts.

When South finally gets to dummy he will lead the Diamond J, and East, to promote his 10, will rise with the Dia-

Ashburton Weather

Midnight Thursday

mond K, forcing South to play his A. Whatever follows from this point Declarer, South, is able to make only eight tricks and is one short of his contract. Should E/W have found and continued with their spade fit, they can make: 9 tricks – 140 score!

Ashburton Golf Club

A big field of over a hundred players, took to the Brandon track on Saturday, most of them were trying their best to get into the final of the Property Brokers shootout.

Well, when the dust settled a few had flown in from the back of beyond, others dropped out of reckoning and a few more just jostled for better position.

Top player of the day was Wendy Hopwood with a super 43 points, just pipping Pete Morrison on 42.

These two wonderful people were not in the shootout where the big mover was Hilary Lovett, she followed last week’s 42 points with another one this week. That gives her top seeding and the favourites tag for the shootout and also sees her pick up the summer stableford trophy.

The biggest jump in the shootout standings was David Rush, he shot a great 40 pointer which moved him from 30th spot right up to 4th and we also saw Alan White with 41 and Tuffy Sa with 38 catapult themselves into the final.

The full list is: Hilary, Matt Fallaver, Henry Lawrence, Rushie, Ryan Stoddart, Craig Bain, Captain Tom, Olly Davo, Kenny Clucas, Blair Snowball, Bruce Day, Alan, Tuffy, John Ramsey, Rob Coyle, Chris

Lovelock, Shane Beaven, Tim Newton and Sheryl Reid.

A form guide for these wonderful people should be out by now, on the website or hard copies around the club. We will have the auction after golf on Saturday and then the final is Sunday week. It should be another cracker.

This Saturday we have club opening day with a pairs ambrose. Mixed pairs playing for the AC Browne Cup and men’s pairs going for the Smith Salver.

Mixed days are always great fun, especially on opening day so get yourself down to the club and join in.

News from the top is that the Harvey Norman classic has got a full field yet again. Any enquiries now will be put into a waiting list in case of withdrawals. The club are looking out for prizes to bolster the raffle table, so if you can help out with a nice gift or a little bottle of something just drop it off at the clubrooms please.

That will do, good golfing.

Creative Fibre

A warm welcome was given to the large crowd and visitors of the Creative Fibre meeting that was held at The Plains Museum. It was a noisy welcome as the members caught up with each other after the holiday break.

Some members had welcomed new babies while one member reported that her son-in-law has been awarded Companion of the Bath by Queen Elizabeth II before she passed and the Investiture is to take place near the end of January 2023 in the UK.

Thursday: Morning low cloud clearing and becoming fine. Northeasterlies, fresh in the afternoon.

Canterbury Plains

Thursday: Morning low cloud clearing and becoming fine. A few spots of drizzle in the south. Northeasterlies, fresh in the afternoon.

Friday: Fine with northwesterlies, then cloud and showers spreading north in the afternoon and evening with a fresh southerly change.

Saturday: Showers. Easterlies.

A subtropical low and associated front affect the northeast of the North Island. A ridge remains over the South Island, however fronts are approaching the country from the southwest. A cold front moves up the South Island on Friday, weakening as it reaches the lower North Island. Meanwhile a high pressure system builds over the country from the west. Another cold front arrives over the lower South Island on Sunday.

Around The Region

The Christmas dinner was held in December as members had time to relax and ‘catch up’ with others. The library has one new magazine and a waiting list for it while an older member donated two books to the library.

After the housekeeping was accommodated the eporter announced she would be retiring at the end of the year. An invitation from Positive Ageing to have a stand at their expo later in the year was accepted. It was also drawn to our attention that Rotary is planning to run ‘car boot sales’ at the West Street carpark on Sundays –an idea to get rid of excess stash?

Support for the sales table at our gatherings to assist with funds to run our club would be appreciated.

The chairperson welcomed a latecomer (Not her fault!) who has just arrived from Masterton where she was a very

active member.

Show and Tell: A group of 10 teddy bears held a picnic on the show and tell table before being donated to Ranui House.

Several children’s knitted garments, some which were for Grandparents bringing up grandchildren and others for family, a beautiful dolls dress and knickers, 2 knitted/ felted bags and a pair of mitts also felted.

Another item was a woven rug in a McBeth tartan while another member had woven 10 scarves using a black warp thread. Another very excited member displayed a new electric spinning wheel – and some wool she had spun. Members were impressed with the size of the skeins. After lunch the weavers produced their looms and proceeded to weave and share ideas.

SPORTS RESULTS

■ Bowls Allenton Bowling Club

On Saturday 14th January the Ron White Memorial Cup was played at the Allenton Club, results were as follows:

First: John Forde, Kelvyn O’Connor, Janice Bell 3 wins 16 ends 33 points,

Second: Bernie Osborne, Colleen McFarlane John Cudworth 2 wins 1 draw

12 ends 28 points, Third: Doug Thorne, Lindsay Kearns, Jan Suttie 2 wins 16

Friday: Fine with NW, then cloud and showers developing late afternoon with a fresh S change.

ends 32 Points.

Congratulations to the Allenton team of G Clarke, L Fickling, T Fickling, G Sparks who won the Doug Hood Memorial Fours contested at Methven Club on Sunday 15th.

Upcoming Events: Tuesday 17th Ladies Club Day morning, Allenton evening pairs 5.30pm, Wednesday 18th 2 Bowl Triples 12.30pm, Thursday 19th Club Day, Saturday 21st Club Day. Good Bowling Everyone

Canterbury High Country Readings to 4pm

Thursday

Mountain weather hazard: Thunderstorm.

Areas of morning valley fog, otherwise mainly fine. Isolated showers developing around midday, some possibly heavy and thundery in the afternoon and evening south of the Rakaia River. Wind at 1000m: Light.

Wind at 2000m: Light.

Freezing level: Above 3000m.

Friday Mountain weather hazards: None issued. Fine at first, then rain spreading north through the afternoon and evening.

Wind at 1000m: NW 50 km/h, changing light S through the afternoon and evening.

Wind at 2000m: NW 45 km/h, dying out through the afternoon.

Freezing level: Above 3000m.

Wednesday

There’s been plenty of action on the Ashburton Bowling Green since the New Year kicked into gear.

Women’s rugby to gain boost through new competition

The continued growth of women’s rugby in the region looks set to gain jet propulsion in 2023 with a new initiative launched this week by the Mid Canterbury Rugby Union.

They’re looking to run a new women’s 10s tournament for players over the age of 18 focussing solely on local clubs and players and will do so by first introducing four weeks of training to allow players to develop their skills and learn more about the game before sinking their teeth in with four weeks of matches.

“This is exciting because it’s completely Mid Canterbury focused,” women’s rugby development officer, Kirsty Arps said.

“In the past it’s been either through school teams, or the Celtic side who head up to Christchurch to play in the competition up there.”

By planning to use local clubs to help push the idea, the hope is that more potential players out in the wider community may take part and in a safe, fun and relaxed manner.

Arps said the four-week training block before matches were played would be centred around the fundamentals of the game.

“We’ll be looking at safe tack-

ling techniques, how to fall to the ground properly and the real basics of the game like laws and rules.

“There’ll be the hands-on element to it as well, but we want to ensure the safety of everyone first.”

Initial interest, after the plan

was launched at the start of the week has been strong with a number of individuals already getting in contact to express their interest in taking part.

How far the plan could lead, is anyone’s guess according to Arps.

“Ideally we’d get through the four weeks of matches and still

Women power rules Christies Road block

Matt Markham

It was women power to the fore in the Tinwald Cycling Club’s, Wylie Family, 45km handicap race around the Christies Road block on Sunday, with four of the top seven places being claimed by the ladies.

Tesh McIntosh proved the strongest in the charge to the finish line to claim a hard fought victory and lift the Alan Wylie Memorial Cup.

Nigel Chatterton was hot on her heels to take the second place spoils, continuing his run of good form.

Charlotte Cox was in the thick of the finish to claim the final podium position.

Natalie Breading will be happy with her afternoon’s work, producing a great ride to secure fourth place.

Mark Smitheram, Paul Williams,

and Katherine Gorrie were a solid part of the winning breakaway, that rounded out the top seven.

Christchurch visitors Adam Chapman and Michael Audeau could not be separated on the line and shared the fastest time honours, riding the course in 61.08. Kyle Gray secured third place.

The juniors and division 2 contested an 18km handicap event.

Charlotte Neal produced an awesome ride to hold out the chasing back markers and claim the major spoils.

Olivia Ewing stormed into second place and also picked up fastest time honours, covering the distance in 31.04.

Jack Gorrie had a top ride securing third place.

Louie Audeau and Ryan Gallagher rounded out the top five.

Nigel Leary got the better of his co-markers to take division 2 honours from Brian Ellis and Allan Johns.

Next week the club travels to the lowlands of Methven to contest a 45km handicap event.

have a heap of players keen to keep going and then we could look at our options from there.

“It might be that we keep a local competition going or could look at bringing a team together from within the competition to combine and join Celtic by playing up in the Christchurch com-

petition.”

The four-week training block will be held through April with the matches scheduled for the following month.

Anyone interested in taking part or wanting to learn more can contact Kirsty at kirsty@midcanterburyrugby.co.nz

Tesh McIntosh ruled the road in Tinwald Cycling Club action at the weekend.

The hope is that a new-look women’s 10’s rugby tournament featuring only local players will entice new women into the game this year.

PHOTO ASHBURTON GUARDIAN

Matt Markham

Puzzles and horoscopes

Cryptic crossword

Simon

ACROSS

1. What a boring life it has, surrounded by furniture! (8)

7. Recall memory of woman that's just about all right (5)

8. Not being introspective, being dismissed is a drawback (7)

9. Is ceded, so makes one's mind up (7)

10. In spirit there's a profit to be made (4)

12. Second hearing of half the Tripos in factual setting (7)

14. Pink Russian salad, as it were (7)

17. American educationalists hold that corporal punishment's in (4)

18. An evil that in Virginia imparts some flavour (7)

21. Spouts poetry and quotes it for the second time (7)

22. Well known to have made minutes (5)

23. Fed a setback, finished having been on one side in case (8)

DOWN

1. Inflicts injury on or returns in place of one in the wings (6)

2. Having done a bit wrong, got hold of it (8)

3. Sign of use entraps the East in conflict (4)

4. Right on! Milk supplier will give one directions (6)

5. A hundred years one has who is unfeeling (4)

6. Lewes is about to include a bloodthirsty creature (6)

7. Former spouse taking cereal first has wrong diet stirred up (7)

11. Knocked it back with a will: send round no nitrogen (7)

13. I and my wife have separated, so it's communicated (8)

14. Gorge the wine from France in a different era (6)

15. Speaking with difficulty of equine, one is told (6)

16. In extremes of livelihood, the simplicity of being rented (6)

19. How KO becomes OK? Crazy! (4)

20. Without being embarrassed, reached a painful conclusion (4)

Quick crossword

ACROSS

1. Skilfully (6)

5. Fame (6)

9. Irrational fear (6)

10. Add on (6)

11. Formerly (4)

12. Rebukes at length (8)

14. Justification (6)

16. Tines (6)

19. Dead end (3,2,3)

21. Pleasantly sharp-tasting (4)

22. Kidnap (6)

23. Painkiller (6)

24. Predominantly (6) 25. Method (6)

DOWN

2. Improve something (7)

3. Pills (7)

4. Young horses (9)

6. Person living outside their country (colloq) (5)

7. Invaded (7)

8. Naturists (7)

Your Stars

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): There's a point when knowledge is not useful, and maybe wasteful as it clogs the arteries of emotion. What helps the situation won't be knowing more but feeling more. Receptivity is an art, and you're a masterful artist.

TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): You'll tend to what matters. Knowing what falls into this category is the tricky part. You have a sense about what you need most now and what is going to have lasting impact. Opportunities await.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 21): Your first instinct may not be the one that's for the highest and best, but maturity has you pausing to consider the other answers instead of rushing in or jumping to conclusions as a younger person might.

CANCER (Jun 22-Jul 22): It's better to figure things out for yourself now. You might make mistakes, but those will be your lessons, and they are far more valuable than what you'll achieve following someone else's prescription.

LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): You've already seen outcomes on the tried-and-true route. Boredom could cause you to take a novel path. Not knowing what to expect is the thrill that sharpens your senses and quickens your reflexes.

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): You were born with qualities and traits, but they are far less significant than the ones you made. You are once again deciding who you want to be, and it will be so much fun exercising your right to create yourself.

LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 23): To be able to give generously to those you love is a luxury only affordable to those who have extra. Whatever quantity you have extra of, you give it abundantly and thereby know what it's like to feel rich.

SCORPIO (Oct 24-Nov 21): It's far better to go solo than to be in bad company. When you're alone, you have options. You can survey the room and figure out who looks interesting to you and where you'd most like to fit in.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): Good things, when taken to excess, become bad things. There's a certain range to stay inside of now and it's wide enough that it shouldn't be a problem for you, as long as you are aware of the limits.

WordBuilder

697 Good 12 Very Good 15 Excellent 19

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): Friends want to influence you. Ultimately your leisure will be the most satisfying when you choose your own pleasures. You'll be glad you were assertive in this regard.

697

How many words of three or more letters, including plurals, can you make from the five letters, using each letter only once? No words beginning with a capital are allowed. There’s at least one five-letter word.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): Don't waste time restringing your instrument or you'll never get the chance to sing the song. Strum what you have and harmonise accordingly. Just because a thing is a little off doesn't mean it won't work.

PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): You can't help what other people say but you can ignore it. You're careful not to pay attention to things that don't honour or require your attention.

Good

Previous solution: abs, bag, bags, bar, bars, bas, bra, brag, brags, bras, gab, gabs, gar, garb, garbs, gars, gas, grab, grabs, rag, rags, sag

SITUATIONS VACANT

CHECKOUT OPERATORS New World Ashburton

Permanent - Full Time/Part Time

Positions Available

We are seeking customer focused individuals to join our Checkout team. You should possess ability and enthusiasm, as you will play an important role within our overall team.

You will be:

• Able to work under pressure

• Self-motivated

• Presented to a high level

• An excellent customer service provider with good communication skills

Key responsibilities include:

• Ensuring that our customers are provided with service to a high standard

• Creating a friendly and helpful environment for customers and staff alike

• Dealing with cash and customer transactions, ensuring accuracy at all times

• Working within Food Safety and Health and Safety requirements

These positions will include a mix of day, evening and weekend shifts. Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand. Please apply now by submitting your CV and cover letter to: vacancies.ashburton@newworld-si.co.nz

Applications close on 12th February 2023.

BAKERY ASSISTANT/FINISHER Ashburton New World

Like early starts? Enjoy your afternoons off?

Then this position is a fantastic opportunity for you, as we require a motivated, positive and self-starting team player who would enjoy the challenges of supermarket retailing. As an integral member of the team, reporting to the Bakery Manager, you will play a significant part in the values and culture of this business.

Key responsibilities of this position include:

• Ensuring the Bakery department provides a superior level of customer service.

• Presenting product to a high standard.

• The ability to adhere to Food Safety and Health & Safety policies

Key competencies required for this position are:

• Delivering a superior customer experience.

• Being an excellent communicator who develops relationships and fosters teamwork.

• Having an engaging and positive manner. We offer great working conditions, a supportive management structure, and personal and professional development opportunities, Funeral Cover (after 12 months employment) and an attractive hourly rate. Days and hours of work will be Sunday to Thursday 5.00am - 1.30pm. Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand. Please apply now by submitting your CV and cover letter to: vacancies.ashburton@newworld-si.co.nz

Applications close on 12th February 2023.

AN INVITATION

We would like to invite you to: THE ASHBURTON METHODIST PARISH OFFICIAL OPENING

Of the BARING SQUARE CENTRE (CHURCH)

Cameron Street Ashburton

SATURDAY 18TH FEBRUARY 2023 @ 2PM

The President of the Methodist Church Rev Peter Taylor will be present.

Afternoon tea will follow the Official Opening. Please R.S.V.P by 25th January 2023

To: ashmeth@kinect.co.nz

Secretary Daphne Whiting. 109 Chalmers Avenue Hampstead Ashburton 7700. Phone 03 3082951

Numbers required for catering purposes

EXPLANATION:  Following the earthquake, services were held in the hall. Then after the demolition and sale of the Hall from March 2019 (3 years and 10 months) we have held services at Paterson’s Chapel. We now have a beautifully restored Church.

SITUATIONS VACANT

Utilities Service Person

Ashburton Contracting Ltd is looking for a Utilities Service Person to work in our ACL Water Department. If you are a methodical problem solver with a can-do attitude, then this could be the position for you. This role is focused around maintenance repair work to the water reticulation and full training is available for the right person.

The right person should be:

• Physically fit and willing to manually dig in conjunction with machine operation/plumbing and drain laying activities

• Have a high level of focus on safety and delivering high quality work

• Be able to show initiative and an ability to follow instructions

• Be prepared to be rostered on Call

• Successful applicants must be comfortable with technology (tablet, computer data entry).

Desirable Qualifications

• Class 2 licence, W, T, R, D

• Working towards or have a National Certificate in

Utilities Maintenance L4

Applicants for this position must have at least NZ Residency

Please send applications, including current CV to: Email: aaron.gairns@ashcon.co.nz

HIRE

GENERAL hire. Lawnmowers, chainsaws, concrete breakers, trailers, and more. All your DIY / party hire, call and see Ashburton U-Hire. 588 East Street.

Open Monday-Friday 7.00am – 5.30pm; Saturday 7.30am - 5pm; Sunday 8.30am12.30pm - Phone 308 8061. www.ashburtonuhire.co.nz

DEATHS

BAGRIE, Simon James –

On January 16, 2023 peacefully at home, Ashburton, surrounded by his loving family. Aged 51 years. Dearly loved husband of Sandra. Adored and loving dad of Matty and Tempany, Ashleigh, and Laura. Loved by his extended family and friends. Messages to the Bagrie family, PO Box 472, Ashburton 7740. Donations to the Cancer Society would be appreciated and maybe made online at bit.ly/sjbagrie1601. A celebration of Simon’s life will be held at the Hotel Ashburton, Racecourse Road, on FRIDAY, January 20, commencing at 1.30pm, followed by interment at the Ashburton Cemetery, Seafield Lawn, Seafield Road.

Nikau Harp Trio

Nikau Harp Trio – Arts On Tour NZ

Tue 21 Feb, 7-30pm, Adult $25 / Group 6+ $20pp (fees apply)

Nikau brings to life the glittering magical world of harp with strings. Music composed for harp, violin and cello is extraordinary and beautiful –the plucked harp strings are vibrant and brilliant, whilst the bowed violin and cello strings are sustained and sonorous.

The Commitments VS The Blues Brothers

GREENWOOD, Lucy –Passed away peacefully on January 6, 2023 at Bert Sutcliffe Rest Home, Birkenhead, Auckland, aged 96 years. Beloved wife of the late Don Greenwood and dearly loved Mum of Sue, loved mother-in-law of Grant Amos. Cherished Nanny of Natalie and Nick Summerfield, Brittany and Chris Montague and much loved great-Nanny to Genevieve, Ben and Emma. A private cremation has been held in Auckland and a Memorial service will be held in the reception lounge at Paterson’s Funeral Services, cnr East & Cox Streets, Ashburton on MONDAY, January 23, 2023 at 11.30am.

The Commitments VS The Blues Tribute Show – Capitol City

Saturday 25th February 8pm

All Tickets $55 (fees apply)

Join us as we transport you back to 1991 with a tribute show to THE COMMITIMENTS and then strap yourself into the Blues mobile with Jake and Elwood Blues as they get the band back together and wind the clock back to 1980.

Tutus On Tour – Royal NZ Ballet

Tutus On Tour – Royal NZ Ballet

Saturday 11th March 7pm

Tickets Adults from $35 / Senior from $29.70 / Child from $20 (fees apply)

To begin the Royal NZ Ballet’s 70th birthday year Tutus On Tour 2023 looks affectionately back at the RNZB’s early days. Patricia Barker has carefully curated a collection of works new and old that the dancers can’t wait to perform for you in this one-show-only performance.

David Strassman In The Chocolate Diet

David Strassman In The Chocolate Diet

Thursday 16th March 7pm

Tickets VIP $99 / A Reserve $79 / B Reserve $69 (fees apply)

David Strassman returns to our stage in his uproarious comedy with the one and only Ted E Bare and the evil Chuck Wood in his new show The Chocolate Diet. David’s show is bound to be a truly remarkable performance. If you are 12 – 15 years of age you can come along with an adult, however, if you are under 12 years of age you are unable to attend. MA Rated.

FinalWhistle

calling time on a week of sport

Emotional win

a

Vertigo’s victory at Ashburton on Tuesday was about far more than just winning

horse race for trainer and driver Lawrence McCormick. FULL STORY: P15