Ashburton Guardian, Saturday, October 29, 2022

High flying kea

A high-flying kea has been tripping 31km above the ground for science, all while travelling across Mid Canterbury’s farmland.

Soft toy, Kelly the Kea, was part of a bid to develop a solar-powered aircraft.

The research trip, run by Christchurch’s Kea Aerospace, had Kelly suspended below a balloon and launched into space

reaching the dizzying height of 31km (100,000ft) above the surface.

Kea Aerospace chief technology officer Philipp Sueltrop said the team uses these high-altitude launches to test equipment such as avionics for its solar-powered unmanned aircraft Kea Atmos.

The scientific payload, a thermal control experiment was designed and manufactured by a final-year project team from the Universty of Canterbury.

“We successfully tested the satellite communications system and new antenna to ensure reg-

ular communications during the entire balloon flight,” Sueltrop said.

The balloon project has been the focus of two final-year projects and resulted in multiple fulltime hires of participating graduates from the University of Canterbury.

It was a special moment when

the chase team saw the kea land in a field near Hinds, something Sueltrop said was very rare.

“We are often not far behind it, but to be there only a few hundred metres away as it came down was very special.

“This is an outstanding achievement considering the balloon travel distance of around

40 kilometres,” he said.

To track the balloon the team used multiple, highly accurate GPS sensors to follow from their ground vehicle.

Sueltrop said they chose Mid Canterbury as it offers a vast amount of flat, mostly empty farmland which makes keeping up with flights much easier.

The kea is now being auctioned off on Trade Me to raise money for the Kea Conservation Trust.

“Of course, the cheeky kea bird is close to our hearts here at Kea Aerospace, so we have set up an auction on Trade Me for Kelly.”

Kelly the Kea high above Mid Canterbury farmland.

PHOTO KEA AEROSPACE Daniel Alvey

Of course, the cheeky kea bird is close to our hearts here at Kea Aerospace, so we have set up an auction on Trade Me for Kelly

Mountain of farm waste plastic on the way out

Green waste woes

Wastebusters has had good news on the farm plastics front, but there is a major problem with its green waste collection.

Wastebusters is relieved to see its first three containers of farm plastics hit the road after being forced to stockpile them for four years.

Wastebusters owner Brent McLaren has partnered with farm plastics recycler Plasback to solve the daunting problem of clearing his massive stockpile of waste plastic.

“We are finally exporting what we have collected in the last four years,” McLaren said.

Wastebusters had collected a range of farm plastics as well as other recyclables and waste from farms throughout Mid Canterbury, but global recycling changes in 2018 caused by China shutting its borders to waste plastic, meant it began to pile up at their yard in the Ashburton Riverside Industrial Park.

The McLarens took over Wastebusters in 2018 and inherited the problem.

“We were promised there was going to be an alternative, but it never eventuated.”

They kept collecting farm plastics but have been unable to export them. Until now.

Plasback commercial manager Neal Shaw learned of the problem, he approached McLaren to see if together they could come up with a solution.

Wastebusters is providing the plastic at no cost to Plasback, and in turn, Plasback is covering the cost of processing it and shipping it overseas to resume addressing the significant waste issue that could impact the local environment.

“We have gotten rid of 580 tonnes so far and working on another 900 tonnes to be gone by Christmas,” McLaren said.

He said its great relief to all concerned that the stockpile is finally being cleared.

Wastebusters is now Plasback’s collection contractor for Mid Canterbury, so is the collection point for all silage wrap, silage covers, twine, and other waste plastic from farms using Plasback’s bin and liner system.

There are around 5000 tonnes of farm plastics sold each year

in the district McLaren said and currently, around 1500 tonnes end up at Wastebusters.

As farmers continue to work on improving their environmental footprints, McLaren believes that figure will grow.

“Hopefully it’s a growth industry.”

The price of recycled plastic has improved in the fallout of the war in Ukraine.

“Because of what is happening with the oil prices they don’t make virgin plastic, so recycling the old plastic is cheaper.

“So the price has gone up and the demand is greater.”

Wastebusters received an abatement notice for its green waste operations from Environment Canterbury in August as it is operating outside of the permitted activity rules of the Land and Water Regional Plan (LWRP).

Wastebusters need, but do not have, a resource consent to stockpile green waste so under the abatement notice has had to cease receiving and stockpiling green waste.

The breaches of the LWRP relate to the stockpiling of decaying organic matter needing to be 50m off every boundary, and that no more than 20m3 be stored in one place.

ECan director of operations, Katherine Harbrow, said an application for consent lodged in February was returned to Wastebusters as it did not include the required information about the proposed green waste operation and its effect on the environment, which are requirements under the Resource Management Act.

“ECan has been in contact with Wastebusters many times over the years to provide advice and expertise on how to legally conduct its green waste and compost operation.

“Ultimately, an abatement notice needed to be issued.”

McLaren is now in the process of clearing the green waste to meet the requirements of the abatement notice.

Wastebusters owner Brent McLaren says its a great relief that the stockpile of farm plastic is finally being cleared.

PHOTO JONATHAN LEASK/LDR

“Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On

Air”

Jonathan Leask

Plasback is the only recycler accredited by the New Zealand government that collects silage wrap and other plastic direct from farms with Wastebusters one of its collection contractors.

Mitch McCann reporting from New York

America what it is” but he also wants to feature New Zealanders who are making moves in America.

An Ashburton broadcaster has be come Newshub’s first ever United States correspondent.

Mitch McCann, who’s been pre senting and reporting for Newshub in Auckland, decided to head off shore this year to work in the US.

But when he told his bosses they became “incredibly supportive and excited to learn” about his move.

While they had correspondents in Australia and Europe, they saw the opportunity to extend Newshub’s coverage of international news by adding “their person in New York”.

“I was on an island off Bali drink ing a cocktail when my boss, Sa rah, rang to confirm my new role as Newshub’s US correspondent,” Mc Cann said.

“The wifi wasn’t working so the call kept cutting out, but I got the gist of what they were saying. I had another cocktail to celebrate.”

McCann is extremely excited about the job. He can’t wait to cover Biden, Trump and “everything that makes

“I think so much New Zealand so ciety has been influenced by the US, TV, movies, music, clothing and pop culture, so there’s a genuine interest from our viewers about what goes on here.”

He acknowledges New York is a long way from Auckland and even longer from Ashburton, but the city is vibrant and full of energy and Mitch and his partner, Olivia Schwass, are really enjoying it.

McCann admits to a whirlwind start to his role which saw him de ployed to the UK to cover the Queen’s death in his first week.

“It was an incredible opportuni ty and I often found myself think ing ‘how did I end up here?’ It was great to work alongside fellow Mid Cantabrians, Bob Grieve and Daniel Pannett.”

Mitch McCann said he can’t wait to bring the most compelling stories from across the United States to New Zealand, especially at a time when the social and political climate is so intriguing.

“We’re in the midst of planning for the midterm elections in the US,” which he said will be a major event for local viewers to tune into.

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Mitch McCann settles into his job from Times Square.

Malcolm Hopwood

National award for local woman

Malcolm Hopwood

Ashburton’s Dianne Favel has been recognised nationally for her service to musical theatre.

The award was due for presentation at Musical Theatre New Zealand (MTNZ’s) annual conference but, when it was cancelled due to Covid, Dianne received it last week from president of Variety Theatre, Ashburton, Nicky Milmine.

The inaugural award from MTNZ, the governing body for operatic societies and musical theatres, is given for outstanding service and, this year, Dianne was one of three recipients.

During her 25-year service to Ashburton Operatic and, latterly Variety Theatre, she was treasurer, committee member, production manager, stage manager and president.

In addition she became administrator for MTNZ’s zone which extends from Nelson through to Waimate.

“I was very humbled, proud to receive it but had no idea it was on its way,” she said.

“I’ve had calls from people locally and nationally saying it is well deserved.”

Favel was attracted to Ashburton Operatic when her son, David, played the role of Danny in Grease.

“I was a very nervous mum watching him but he took to the stage and was a natural,” she said.

“Very quickly I was coerced into the administration team for the society.”

She said it became a very important part of her life when husband, Tex Favel, died.

As a former office manager for the Ashburton Guardian, she was familiar with administration and finance and held these positions for many years with Ashburton Operatic and as zone representative.

Relationship with hapū ‘could be stronger’

tionship with its local hapū

“Council management have a strong and enduring relationship with Te Rūnaka o Arowhenua via Aoraki Environmental Consultancy (AEC),” Riach said.

“As a member of the national body it took me all over the South Island, and I saw many shows,” she said.

“My favourites have been Blood Brothers, Les Miserables, Jersey Boys, Miss Saigon and Mary Poppins.”

Ill health has seen Dianne take a lesser role in recent years but her newspaper background has seen her regularly proofread the programmes. When it’s not her turn and there’s a mistake, Variety Theatre better look out.

A family-owned business, building homes in Mid Canterbury for over 40 years

Ashburton District Council and local hapū say they have a strong relationship despite claims from a former councillor that “it could be stronger”.

In his final meeting of the last council term, departing councillor Angus McKay said the council’s relationship with Te Rūnanga o Arowhenua could be much better.

“We don’t actually have a relationship that we are proud of with Arowhenua, and it’s not our fault,” McKay said.

“I wish there was a good relationship, but there is not.”

McKay said he was referring to how the elected councillors had only met with Arowhenua once during the last threeyear term.

It was supposed to have been at least three meetings, once per year, but for various reasons, it was only once and McKay was disappointed that the other meetings weren’t rescheduled.

“I always valued the relationship, along with any other people we dealt with.”

He believes the relationship could be stronger and that the councillors could easily meet with Arowhenua, or its representatives, more than once a year.

While McKay feels that the councillors may have missed out in the last term, council chief executive, Hamish Riach, said the council maintains a strong rela-

“Officers meet with the AEC team every six weeks to discuss upcoming projects and work streams for AEC to provide advice and guidance with, as treaty partners.”

The councillors and senior executive team aim to meet with Te Rūnaka o Arowhenua onsite at the marae at least once a year he said.

“Unfortunately, the last two hui have been cancelled at short notice due to Covid-19 restrictions and Arowhenua having tangi at the marae.

“Officers are currently working with Arowhenua to re-establish the regularity of these hui, which this year were delayed due to the local body elections.”

Te Rūnaka o Arowhenua representative Fiona Pimm said they have a strong relationship with the council through Aoraki Environmental Consultancy.

“We look forward to exploring opportunities with all councils within our rohe, including Ashburton District Council, to ensure they can engage in an authentic Te Tiriti partnership with our hapū,” Pimm said.

Dianne Favel’s service to musical theatre locally and nationally has been recognised with an award from Musical Theatre New Zealand.

Jonathan Leask

“Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air”

Sworn in for ‘challenging term’

Jonathan Leask

The new Ashburton District Council has been sworn in, for what the mayor says will be a challenging term.

In his opening address, Ashburton Mayor Neil Brown said “this is a council that is going to face some challenges in the next three years”.

“Whether it be around government reforms such as the RMA

reform, the future for local government review, or the famous Three Waters reform which we, as a council, do not support in its current form”.

He said rampant inflation will also factor highly, as it is putting extreme pressure on the current and future budgets.

There are some big projects on the books including Methven’s water upgrades, lobbying the Government for funding for the second bridge in Ashburton, and getting the new Library and Civic Centre completed next year “as close to the budget as possible”.

“These projects will help transform this community for the bet-

ter for generations to come, and it is imperative we keep the momentum going on these projects.”

He also said increasing engagement remains a key focus after only 50 per cent of the eligible population voted, which was high compared to the rest of the country “but isn’t good enough”.

“We can only hear the voices that speak to us.”

All the councillors are approachable on any issue or concerns, he said, “or on a good day on what we are actually doing right”.

The first meeting was primarily ceremonial, with most of the elected councillors and Methven Community Board members be-

ing sworn in to office.

With his re-election and five returning councillors, Brown said it showed the community wanted “stability in the district”.

Brown officially announced Liz McMillan retaining her role as deputy mayor.

“I know it’s a role she excels in, and I look forward to working with her.”

The councillors all come from different areas and were elected from wards, but Brown intends to lead them as a united team for the whole community.

“We are here to do the best for everyone in the Ashburton District.

“I think we have the right team to do just that.”

Leen Braam was unable to attend on Thursday and will be sworn in at the December 8 meeting, while Methven Community Board member Allan Lock will be sworn in at the board’s inaugural meeting on Monday.

Council signs off on salaries for current term

BY JONATHAN LEASK

One of the few pieces of business to be conducted at the inaugural Ashburton District Council meeting was signing off the salaries.

The Remuneration Authority is the independent body that dictates the elected members’ salaries.

The council only has a say in how the pool of money is distributed. The remuneration pool increased $61,302 from $388,893 to $450,195.

As the role of deputy mayor is the only position of additional responsibility it comes with an increased salary of $80,003, up from $59,182 last year.

The other eight councillors will all receive the same base remuneration of $46,274 – up from $41,214 last year.

The remuneration pool doesn’t apply to the mayor or the Methven Community Board. The mayor’s salary for the remainder of the 2022/23 year is $132,690.

The Ashburton District Council

also provides the role with a vehicle, which mayor Neil Brown has opted for full private use which will come with a salary reduction.

The Methven Community Board salaries have been set at $5554 for the chair, who will be selected at the inaugural meeting on Monday, and $2777 for members until June 30, 2023.

As the new Ashburton District Council was sworn in mayor Neil Brown said “this is a council that is going to face some challenges in the next three years”.

PHOTOS JONATHAN LEASK/LDR

“Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air”

“Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air”

Councillor Carolyn Cameron signs on for another term.

Happy 105th birthday Patricia

“Ashburton is a lovely place to live,” she said.

Alvey

A birthday is a special time for everyone, but as you make it into triple digits they become extra special.

Ashburton resident Patricia Macer will mark her 105th birthday tomorrow, with a quiet get-together with some of her friends and family scheduled.

“I’m keeping it pretty quiet with my family.”

She said attaining that age “is a privilege and to be healthy as well, apart from some poor eyesight and harder to hear, but that comes with maturity”.

Macer has never left Ashburton apart from the odd overseas holiday and only ever had one job at her father’s business as a clerical worker.

“I was coming through depression days and I was told to leave school and get a job by my father.

Macer had some good advice on how to live past 100 years, with taking everything in moderation.

“First you have to be born healthy and strong and from then on your health will carry on.

“Each morning you wake up is a bonus day, enjoy it because you don’t know what is around the corner,” Macer said.

Now living in Terrace View in Tinwald, Macer keeps herself busy with books and activities inside the home where her hearing and sight allow.

She moved into the care facility at the age of 98 after she stopped driving only when she was 96 with no infringements.

Macer still has some nods to her home, with some of her furniture decorating the room.

Out of all the changes in her lifetime the biggest thing she has noticed is the technology.

“One of the biggest changes I’ve seen is the transport and technology and the way kids these days can just pick stuff up so quickly, to an older person it’s not easy to get online.”

While over her life Macer could have picked a favourite moment from just about every decade, one that stands out is her golden wedding celebration which coincided with a baptism of one of her grandchildren.

was just a lovey, lovely experience.”

Local Govt review contains some surprises

Future for Local Government draft report was being released on Friday.

However, its content may have come as a surprise, and will take time to digest.

A report on the proposed radical shake-up of local Government hasn’t caught the Ashburton District Council by surprise.

Chief executive Hamish Riach said there was no surprise the Government’s Review into the

The Future for Local Government review is proposing allowing 16-year-olds to vote, mana whenua appointees potentially sitting alongside elected Māori ward councillors, moving all councils to the Single Transferable Vote system, more money for councillors and moving to four-year terms.

An independent panel set up 18 months ago by Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta has come back with 29 draft recommendations and a number of questions in the report as it closes in on its final report due out in June next year.

Some councils have claimed to have been blindsided by the report’s release, but Riach said the council was aware it was coming and were not disappointed they didn’t get an advanced copy.

“There are a number of brief-

ings from the panel coming in the next few weeks, so we weren’t grumpy we didn’t have one before its release,” he said.

As the report is still at a draft stage and submissions on it are open until the end of February he said the council will take its time to consider what is being proposed.

“We intend discussing it with council early in the new year, once we have had the chance to digest it and understand it better.

“I’m sure council will be expressing a view on it by the deadline next year,” Riach said.

JAMES MEAGER

“Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air”

Jonathan Leask

Patricia Macer will celebrate her 105th birthday tomorrow, with a quiet gathering of her family.

PHOTO DANIEL ALVEY

Daniel

“It

Each morning you wake up is a bonus day, enjoy it because you don’t know what is around the corner

“

Having fun at the show

Tower builders: Chertsey School children stopped by at the Ashburton Guardian tent to play a tower building challenge game at the Ashburton A&P Show yesterday.

The show, in its 145th year, is back in its entirety for the first time in three years after Covid-19 restrictions had denied the community from attending one of its biggest annual events. Today, with gates open from 9am, the show is expected to attract thousands.

Read further A&P Show coverage online and in the Guardian on Tuesday.

Inspiring young professionals

“The Ashburton business community is very supportive of our group and the club is thankful for all the support we receive.”

A group of young people are using their time to inspire the next generation of professionals in the workplace.

The Mid Canterbury Young Professionals is an inclusive and welcoming group of young, local professionals and tradies, offering a network for young people to connect and grow in their chosen industry.

Recently they hosted an educational evening titled Innovators & Entrepreneurs, which showcased some of the district’s most successful young business owners who were all under the age of 28.

“We have educational and social events every month which provide an opportunity for networking and learning. There is no membership fee and most of our events are free entry,” Mid Canterbury Young Professionals treasurer Jono Ellis said.

The most recent panel included three young business people, Fraser Bailey, the owner of Bailey Engineering, a local Ashburton firm which specialises in agricultural and farming products, Chris Barnes, the owner of Diesel-Tech Machinery, an agricultural machinery dealer and repair centre located in both Methven and Rangiora, and Fraser Mackenzie, the owner of the liquor company Heresto Vodka.

“An incredible amount of knowledge was on offer, especially considering the panellists were all in their mid-twenties,” Ellis said.

The group offers casual Friday night drinks held at Cleavers Corner Gastro Pub. Drinks are held on a monthly basis with the next one being held on Friday, November 4 from 5pm onwards.

The group encourages young people to get involved and come along to their events, which are announced on their social media pages.

We have had a Maple Villa become available in our popular resort.

Consisting of two bedrooms, this 109 sqm villa has a sunny open plan living areas, two toilets, heat pump, office and single garage with internal access.

Situated close to the Resort Lodge.

PHOTO DANIEL ALVEY

Mid Canterbury Young Professionals vice-president Jamie Smitheram leads the questions for panellists (from left) Fraser Bailey, Chris Barnes, and Fraser Mackenzie.

PHOTO SUPPLIED

Daniel Alvey

RantorRave

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Angus is the kind of champion we should all aspire to be

The world needs more young people like Ashbur ton’s Angus Laing.

If you missed it earlier this week, the six-year-old entrepre neur is back at his gate plying his trade, all in the name of making a few dollars for himself – and a fair few dollars for a very worthy cause as well.

His business? Sunflowers, and it’s an operation growing as tall as the wares he’s pedlling from his family home’s front gate.

This year half of all his profits made will be given to Camp Courage, a wonderful organi sation that helps children who have lost a parent connect with others in a similar situation.

At a time where all the head

lines around the young generation of New Zealand seem to have negative undertones, isn’t it just refreshing to read and learn of something really positive?

It reinstates the faith that despite all the drama around ram raids and young kids tear ing around the country in cars causing all sorts of damage, that there’s still plenty of good out there to be proud of.

Last year Angus managed to pull together $300 from his efforts to donate to St John.

In his third year of business the budding young superstar is proof that age has no limits if you’re determined, have a goals in mind and work hard to achieve them.

Good on you, Angus – let’s hope there’s a successful time ahead for you at the front gate.

Scheduling mix-up another blunder for NZ Rugby

The NZ Rugby PR machine revealed another hitch in its gait this week with the realisa tion that tonight both the All Blacks and the Black Ferns will

play at the same time.

After a tumultuous year, the union looked set to experience nice bright shining skies until the end of 2022, but now it’s an other disaster that they’re trying to save face on.

It’s not completely their fault.

Japan Rugby was in charge of the schedule for the All Blacks match in Tokyo, but you’d have to think at some point along the way the clash was noticed and immediate action should have been undertaken to rectify it.

If anything, and above all else, it’s a kick in the face for women’s rugby.

Right now, the Black Ferns’ bid to be world champions is far more important than anything

else happening in the game’s realm, and championing the efforts of the national team should be the only priority.

Instead, we now have All Blacks coach, Ian Foster coming out publicly and telling the country to ‘get over it’ and find a way to watch both matches.

Because I refuse to subscribe to the abomination that is Spark Sport, my solution is a little bit easier than most. I’ll watch the All Blacks live and then catch the Black Ferns delayed straight after on free-to-air television.

But it shouldn’t have hap pened in the first place and again just goes to show that all is not well in the home office of the biggest sport in this country.

Matt Markham

No butts – I’ve just gotta stop

There are two things in my life that I would say I’m excellent at … smoking and eating.

Yes, shocking … fancy saying that in public. I can see the PC anti-smokers turning up their noses in disgust. I don’t blame them, smoking does stink.

I’m the ultimate addict and it makes me feel so angry, belligerent and vile to even think of giving that up. I’d kind of decided I wouldn’t be able to anyway … and my mantra was: “My muma never raised no quitter.”

I’ve got friends too scared to smoke in public because of how they’re looked down upon, frowned at, sneered at and judged.

My niece, Abby Brownlie, got in my car and complained loudly about how it was “stanky”. I told her she had the option to get out and walk. Judgy little fluff. I had to spray Oust and she still reckoned she could smell it.

And for all of the reasons/ excuses above, I want to smoke more … in public … loudly.

The popular anti-smoking judgements peev me off to the extent that I feel like organising a pro-smoking rally through the centre of town, with placards about human rights being breached.

That judgement, the constant bombardment of being made to feel like a second-class citizen –a leper – made me not want to give up.

Those looks headed my way

Lisa Fenwick MY FORKING LIFE

didn’t make me shrink, I’m too much of an arsey cow, I would raise an eyebrow and make sure I blew out an extra big plume of smoke, with eyes as cold as a polar bear’s nuts.

Anyway, rant aside, I never ever want to force a non-smoker to inhale those putrid fumes. I’m hyper aware of other people’s rights to not have to share my habit. I will always move away and make sure I’m not blowing smoke people’s way.

But the speedy and horrendous rises in cigarette prices has finally worn me down (and if I don’t get to my nephew’s wedding in Brisbane next year I’ll be dead quicker) … so …

“My name is Lisa and I’m a smokaholic. It’s been seven days since my last cigarette.”

Here’s how it’s going (with the aid of a vape):

Day 1: The weather is very stormy, with a couple of hurricanes brewing and the odd tornado in danger of blowing up. I am furious about giving up smoking (as illogical as that is) and I’m going to eat something naughty (I’m lying. I ate several naughty things).

Day 2: Me to work colleague: Give me a smoke or I’ll hurt

someone. Then there’s me hoping it will taste disgusting like I’ve heard other vaporists claim. But no, it tasted great. Note to self: Don’t try that tactic again for a while.

Day 3: I still hate everybody, but there are patches of sunlight cutting through the storm clouds. And there are times I just feel miserable about it, like I’d lost my best friend and cut my right arm off.

I travel to Timaru to catch up with mates and I’m not driving, which makes it worse … I’m a

fiddler (not in a weird way).

Every now and again I wail uncontrollably that I want a smoke, but I feel better after demanding my nephew meets me at the café and tell him to buy me a coffee.

He also vapes, so going outside to be vape buddies is just what I needed.

Day 4: Lots of company over the weekend is helping, although being at home and sitting around because of visitors catches me out a bit.

I start thinking up excuses in my head as to why I am

miserable without smokes and why I should buy some, until one of those visitors with very bad adult-onset asthma talks about COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) quite extensively.

That freaks me out and puts a stop to the smoke-buying fantasies.

Day 5: Got in my car this morning to go back at work after the long weekend and I noticed my car was stanky (yep Abby, I get it now, shuddup) and I can be around someone smoking without wanting to jump them and steal their smokes.

I’m not going to take you through the other days, there’s no point ... my brain is not in the same cycle of anger and sadness.

Weirdly, the person who had given up hope of even wanting to give up smoking, is feeling great about it, just seven days down the track, so that’s a big win.

That may not last, but it’s a good feeling right now, especially after talking to a bloke downstairs who told me it took him 30 tries to give up smoking … I just don’t have that determination or dedication, so it’s probably now or never.

And the money I’m about to save not smoking – I’m talking in the vicinity of around $120 to $160 a week – will really help subsidise the Jenny Craig weight loss programme I’m going to have to join (and should’ve joined 20 years ago).

New Zealand is working with Labour

The country’s unemployment rate is at a near record low and people’s incomes are growing at the highest rate since records began.

There are now less than 99,000 New Zealanders receiving Jobseeker Work Ready – the first time numbers have dipped below 100,000 since the pandemic began.

We’ve also seen the number of people receiving a main benefit continue to fall year-on-year – in the Ashburton District we’ve had over 500 people move from the main benefit into work in the last year.

As a Government, we’re fo-

Luxton

RANGITATA MP

cused on creating jobs, upskilling New Zealanders and supporting more people here in Mid Canterbury into work – and the latest figures show that it’s paying off.

Our Government is supporting more people into education and training and I’m really proud of the fact that more than 200,000 Kiwis have now benefited from our free apprenticeships and

trades training programmes.

It’s great to see that apprenticeships are more than 50 per cent higher than when we came into Government, and that we now have 20,000 more construction workers than a year ago.

This means we’re able to continue delivering more homes for people in Mid Canterbury and around the country.

On top of training more New Zealanders with the skills businesses need, we’ve also rebalanced our immigration to make it easier for local businesses and farms to fill gaps by hiring highly-skilled people from overseas.

I also wanted to touch on the

proposal to reduce agricultural emissions. This pragmatic approach sets up our biggest export earner for future success and putting New Zealand on track to meet our 2030 methane reduction target.

This is an important step forward in New Zealand’s transition to a low emissions future and delivers on our promise to price agriculture emissions from 2025.

The Government largely adopts the farming sector’s proposal to price emissions at the farm level.

The proposal would see New Zealand farmers lead the world in reducing emissions, deliv-

ering a competitive advantage, enhancing our export brand and helping to boost export earnings.

Consultation to work through sequestration, levy setting process, and transition assistance is open until November 18, 2022 and I encourage you to have your say through a submission.

Jo Luxton is a Labour MP.

The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the author and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, positions or strategies of the Ashburton Guardian Co Ltd or any employee thereof

‘Apocalypse? I’ll just carry on sweeping’

It would seem that people have been predicting the end of the world for as long as we have been living in it, and needless to say, no one has been right yet.

Earth and the human race has kept going through some horrible things, but some people are still saying that the end is nigh.

The belief that we are living in “end times” has presented the Christian church with problems from its beginning.

This belief resulted in parts of the young Christian church going out of existence.

Part of this can be related to a reported incident when Christ was alive. At one time, Christ was speaking to some people about

Eric Mattock CHRISTIAN COMMENT

“end times” when he said that there were some people there at the time who would still be living when these things took place.

The whole history of the church is pock-marked with people believing that they are living in the “end times” which has often resulted in both bizarre and tragic results.

A fairly recent example of an apocalyptic cult ending in

tragedy took place at Jonestown, Guyana when more than 900 people, including many children died in a mass murder suicide in 1978, by drinking cyanide-laced punch at the order of cult leader Jim Jones.

12, 2012, the end of the Mayan calendar.

I was made aware of some people preparing for this by stocking up on supplies to last them for seven years.

The 12th of the 12th month of

earthly ministry, he was asked “when would all these things take place?” He answered saying that no-one even he himself did not know. Only the Father in heaven knows these things.

Many centuries ago, one of the great thinkers of the church happened to be sweeping dead leaves from a porch at a place he lived in. As he was doing this, someone approached him and asked what he would do if the world would end within the next hour.

“What would I do?” said the great thinker, “Why I would carry on sweeping.”

Some people more recently believed that the end of the world would take place on December

2012 came and went and nothing untoward took place.

At another time during Christ’s

Rev Eric Mattock is the minister at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church

The whole history of the church is pockmarked with people believing that they are living in the “end times” which has often resulted in both bizarre and tragic results.

Jo

Supersized US

IRRIGATION ON A GRAND SCALE

Everything’s bigger in America y’all.

Thomas Duncan’s recent trip to America, representing Rainer Irrigation, proved just that for the Ashburton local, who was amazed at how big and large-scale everything was, but also how generous small-town Americans were.

“They must’ve thought I was a bit of a bum or something, they’d offer me food all the time … food and drink. Just very giving,” Duncan said.

The 29-year-old irrigation sales and design expert and Rainer CEO Lucas Cawte, among other representatives from Thailand and Australia, traversed nine different states over the course of a week.

They saw factories and feedlots that were so huge, it made New Zealands’ look like Lego farms and even a robotic factory that was so technologically advanced it was “just incredible”, Duncan said.

Zimmatic Irrigation Solutions wanted to educate clients and give them “an appreciation of what they do in the States and the scale of the market. You don’t realise until you go over there that we are just a little dot on the map”, Duncan added.

“We’re pretty insignificant down here and the overall size of what we’re doing here is just pretty minimal, compared to over there.”

Duncan could be called Zimmatic’s biggest fan, believing that their pivots are the world’s premium product. So, seeing how they operated was eye-opening.

“I would say they are selling the most premium product out of all the irrigation companies. This is from what I’ve seen and what I’ve been told … this is numbers. By far, Zimmatic and Valley are the two larg est brands in America.”

Again, it was the scale that stood out. There are farms in America with 100-plus pivots on them, so they put a lot of trust in the company to provide them with this premium product that’s not going to break down.

“That’s what we saw over there and it was reassuring to see that.

“You could be thinking that New Zealand’s an isolated market and we think Zimmatic’s the best here, but it’s good to see it around the world, that Zimmatic’s the best in the world.”

Pivot brands Valley, Zimmatic and TL are all made within about 30 kilometres of each other in land-locked Nebraska.

History

That state is where irrigation basically took off in America.

“So Nebraska grows a huge amount of corn, cereals – basic broad acre crop (large-scale crop). Nebraska was the go-to,

By Lisa Fenwick

so that’s why those products got established there.”

Valley came up with the first pivots and did them on flat ground.

“There’s an area in Nebraska that’s a bit hilly, so when they tried selling machines into this area, they couldn’t climb up the hills and they were water-driven pivots.

“So Zimmatic designed the electric drive machine so they

could climb up the hills,” Duncan said.

“That’s how they established themselves; as having these machines that could climb up hills. So that’s how they got started and then TL started up as well.”

Shipping problems

Duncan said that New Zealand is in such an awkward spot, basically at the bottom of the earth, and with shipping a nightmare with the fallout from Covid, “it’s simply harder for them to get stuff to us”.

But say you live in Nebraska. You could order a machine (pivot) on a Monday, you’d have it delivered midweek and installed by the end of the week.

Whereas here, some farmers have waited over a year just for their machine to turn up. It

leaves everyone frustrated, from the farmers to the suppliers. It’s a tough game at the moment.

“We talked to dealers there and asked them about their shipping delays. And they said ‘yip, it got really bad in Covid, it went from us getting our pivot in one week to us getting our pivot within two weeks’.”

For young Duncan, where his farmers have gone from getting a pivot in a couple of months to it taking over a year, that was quite the pill to swallow.

If Covid taught them anything, it was not to put all their irrigator eggs in one basket.

“There are now factories in Turkey, South America, South Africa and China – so we’ve been dragging out of different factories for the past few years, where we would primarily get it out of America beforehand.”

And even something as seemingly inconsequential as a

microchip has held up the irrigator supply chain, according to Duncan. Why? Because the pivots’ electrical panels each have a microchip. Those chips are now sought after in the higher priority electric car market, which is a big industry everywhere, especially in the States.

But what you have to understand is that everything in America is big – big farms, big cars, big food.

“Everything was enormous,’’ Duncan said.

But delays are only part of the problem. In Pasco, the group met a Zimmatic pivot dealer, who talked extensively about the struggles they are facing.

For him shipping delays are not nearly as significant as the price increases in every component.

Duncan said it’s a problem being felt around the world.

“Everything’s gone up in price.

Two Ashburton Rainer Irrigation lads experienced BIG on a grand scale when they toured rural America recently. The Guardian chatted to Thomas Duncan about the trip and how he came home with a new appreciation of their business and that Kiwi farmers are pretty small fish in a large irrigation pond.

Above – Rainer Irrigation’s Thomas Duncan (left) and Lucas Cawte at the Husker Harvest Days in Nebraska with a Zimmatic corner arm. PHOTOS SUPPLIED

Left – The entrance to the Husker Harvest Days.

Steel prices have gone up, so that’s pushed the price of our machines up.”

Trip

Starting in the north-west, the two Rainer blokes left Christchurch International Airport on September 9 and landed in Seattle, Washington state.

The trip was hosted and funded by Zimmatic parent company Lindsay Corporation, a massive corporate that exports pivots around the world, amongst other things.

A first-up visit to the Boeing factory in Everett, where they make all the planes, about 40 minutes north of Seattle, was a quick pop-in and they saw the last 747 coming off the lot.

“The scale of it is incredible. It’s probably one of the biggest factories in the world.”

Wenatchee

From there they were driven to Wenatchee, still in Washington state, and known as the apple capital of the world. It’s a little town at the top of the Columbia River with apples so big he couldn’t even finish one.

The team dropped into Oregon state to Hermiston and met with IRZ Consulting. There, if a group of farmers want to get water to their farm, this company will sort them out and do the design and everything.

“They make it happen.”

Around this area, at the top of Oregon, they had issues with acquifers drying up. Basically they couldn’t get water out of the ground anymore. They’d sucked it dry. So what they had to do was pump it out of the Columbia River to the farms.

As any farmer knows, this can be a logistical nightmare.

“To do this they basically had to do their own irrigation scheme and it was completely funded by the farmers. Thirteen farmers got together and it cost them $US46m a couple of years ago.”

This system supplies 13 farms, covers 26,000 acres (10,522 hectares). It pumps water from the river, uphill, and it travels about 27km to the furthest farm in the scheme.

Hermiston

“That was impressive. Completely backed by the farmers. No government funding, but there were no government hurdles for them to worry about either.

“The most expensive permit for this whole job was to get (piping) under the main highway and it cost them $US50.”

Now, getting a permit in New Zealand is a tad more angst-ridden.

“It would take you two years to get one. But not so in the States.

“There’s no red tape in front of them for every single decision they have to make.

“This system is pumping 10,000 litres per second – which is a huge amount – out of the massive Columbia River.”

The river volume and size is “ginormous though”, with something like 15 hydro stations along it.

“I don’t even know if we’ve got

a river that big here (NZ). It’s about 200 metres across and the deepest spot is like 200m deep.”

Don’t take young Duncan the wrong way, he certainly knows there is the need for restrictions in certain parts.

“There are definitely areas in America where they shouldn’t be taking water and there should be better regulations, but it’s the red tape here that slows down our infrastructure and economy.’’

Even when it comes to nutrient loading in the soil American farmers get off pretty lightly, according to Duncan.

The soil in America is like farming on sand.

“There’re not a lot of nutrients in the soil.”

They use a massive amount of fertiliser.

“The nitrate levels that pop up in domestic wells [across America] would exceed any rate you would see come off a dairy farm here.

“Even New Zealand’s worst dairy farms would be nowhere near the nitrate levels that are popping up from the amount of nitrate that’s getting put on over there.”

The travellers also visited a breeding feedlot and that’s not something we see in New Zealand.

It’s quite rare, even in America. The biggest industry over there in farming is beef feedlots.

They are vaccinated and dewormed every week and have veterinarians working there who are monitoring the cows all the time, making sure their health is perfect.

In the breeding version, farmers basically send their yearlings

there to get impregnated using artificial insemination.

The feedlot gets them in perfect health with the good nutrients – a mix of alfalfa, corn, onions and hay – and then when they are impregnated they are sent back to farmers knocked up and in top-notch health.

It’s a more cost-effective and efficient way for them to operate. They will house 10,000 jersey/ holstein yearlings in the feedlot at any given time which is not huge, and that’s not as big as some of the American feedlots where they are more like our Five Star Beef here, he said.

“I went to a feedlot in Nebraska that was housing 50,000 cows on 150 hectares, so over double the numbers of Five Star Beef (in Mid Canterbury).

“And there are thousands of feedlots in America.”

Hutterites in Hermiston

Another Hermiston visit that fascinated Duncan, was a visit to an enormous Hutterite farm.

Similar to the Amish, Hutterites – also known as Hutterian Brethren and originally from Germany – live in hundreds of colonies throughout the prairies of north-western North America.

One of their main differences to the Amish is that they embrace technology.

“They’ll have the best of everything,” Duncan said.

The have what Duncan was told was a vege garden to feed the families, but it was on about 2ha, with its own pivot.

They have their own piggery, a massive building full of chickens, a bit of beef … and that’s just to feed their community.

Above – Standing above the lifeblood of Washington State, the mighty Columbia River, is the mighty Thomas Duncan. Below – The motors, each one 1.5 megawatts, pumping water out of the Columbia River.

We haven’t started on their crops. They’re doing large-scale cropping on around 3237 hectares.

They produce a lot of spuds, so the farm had six 8000-tonne potato sheds

“It’s on a massive scale. Just this farm (alone) had 150 Zimmatic pivots on it. It was probably the biggest farm we visited.”

To put that in perspective, a very large-scale dairy farm in New Zealand may have 10 pivots.

Even in America, the Hudderites’ pad is considered a big cropping farm, mostly growing peas, sweetcorn and fresh potatoes and Clearwater potatoes.

Walla Walla

From Hermiston, the team were whisked off to the Nelson factory in Walla Walla.

There’s only one factory and it supplies all of the Rainer sprinklers that go on to the pivots and end guns.

“You can see why they make the best product in the world. The technology behind it is amazing”, Duncan said, explaining that it was a complete robotic factory.

“Basically plastic goes in one end and you get a fully-made sprinkler at the other end. The whole thing is put together by robots.”

Nelson even builds their own robots. They’ve got pneumatic engineers out the back who are literally just building new machines to make the next product they’re going to sell.

They’ve got their own 3D engineers with 3D printers, printing prototypes out, making sure they’re going

recall the whole batch and scrap it.”

It wasn’t all work for Duncan and his group, who got to have some fun at a big bull-riding event with thousands turning out on a Monday night.

The visitors were treated like VIPs, amidst the extremely patriotic Oregon residents.

“This guy got up at the start of the rodeo to do his prayer and everything and everyone stood up for the prayer. Then he did a speech saying that he hears about all this negative stuff in the media about people around the world saying negative things about America. ‘They can all go to hell cause God bless America, we’re the greatest country in the world’.”

The rodeo Duncan’s group went to was their biggest of the year, part of the aptly named 2022 Unleash the Beast Tour.

“It was as American as you can get. They had these big juicedup bulls that were just smashin’ people to bits. These were very big angus bulls … monsters.’’

Duncan reckons sport is one of America’s biggest industries. And while the rodeos are more “country, farmer-based”, the big cities don’t lack in sports passion.

“Sport is just next level in America. There’s sport every single day of the week and they’ll be sell-out crowds at every single

event … at every level.”

There will be sell-out crowds watching junior baseball and it’s even streamed on ESPN.

Lincoln, Nebraska

They experienced that live, going to a college football [gridiron] game with the Nebraska Huskers playing.

“There was a crowd there of 90,000 people and they’d sold out 360 consecutive games. Every week was a sell-out crowd. It is madness, just for college games.

“The whole of America is built around it [sport]. There’s sports bars everywhere because people want to go and watch sports.

“It’s quite a social thing and they’re so passionate about it.”

In fact, Duncan was intrigued by how incredibly social he found the Americans.

“It’s very common to go out for dinner. People barely ever eat at home and they go out early. They’ll be out for dinner at 5 o’clock.

“We’d go out at 7[pm] for dinner and they’d be shutting the kitchen.

Omaha, Nebraska

But it wasn’t all about the Huskers game because there was more business in Omaha, Nebraska’s capital.

Because that’s where the head

office of the Lindsay Corporation resides and the team were taken for a squizz and a chat with many of the managers.

They even met the Lindsay CEO, who is travelling to New Zealand in November. He’ll be based in Ashburton and the Rainer crew will be showing him around.

Next they were whisked off to just out of York, which is basically just a truck stop, but it’s the home of the big Husker Harvest Days. That’s the equivalent of New Zealand’s field days.

“It wasn’t as big as I thought it was going to be, it was similar in size to the South Island field days, the ones they have in Kirwee.”

It’s not as big as Mystery Creek up in Hamilton, however, it’s all perspective. The Australians on the trip thought the harvest days event was enormous.

“Americans don’t like to walk, there was something like 170 golf carts parked up outside. So you could rent a golf cart for $US70 and drive it around the show.

Lindsay, Nebraska

After the show they were off to Lindsay, where – you guessed it – the big company originated and where they started is where they are still building pivots to this day.

From humble beginnings in

Left – Jersey yearlings at a breeding feedlot in Hermiston, Oregon.

Right – Spuds destined to become McDonald’s chips at the massive Hudderite cropping farm in Oregon.

Below – Roughly around 5 per cent of the trucks used on the Hudderite farm.

a town about the size of a truck stop came a world leader in irrigation.

“It’s just grown and grown and grown.”

The town itself is way smaller than Rakaia and didn’t even have accommodation, but it has one of the biggest factories in the world.

“You turn up at the Lindsay factory and there are just massive trucks [with big long trailers on them] lining up to pick up pivots and they’re just driving off all around America distributing pivots.”

Duncan said around 80 per cent of the pivots Lindsay makes

are supplying the domestic market and 20 per cent is international.

And of the 20 per cent, New Zealand accounts for roughly 1 or 2 per cent.

The Ashburton lads then headed to Kansas for some R&R before the big flight home.

What fascinated Duncan about Nebraskans (often called Huskans due to being the state of corn) was how they don’t like to travel far. Not to mention that they wanted the Kiwis to keep talking because of our weird accent.

The New Zealanders were usually called Australians or South

Irrigation, factory and sight-seeing tour eye-openers for Thomas Duncan from Rainers:

• On the Americans’ generosity: “They must’ve thought I was a bit of a bum or something, they’d offer me food all the time … food and drink. Just very giving.’’

•

On how good Americans have actually got it with what they perceive is an irrigator/pivot Covid-enforced supply chain issue: You could order a pivot on a Monday, it would be delivered midweek and installed by the end of the week. And in NZ? Some farmers have waited over a year just for their machine to turn up.

• Few American state or Government red tape hurdles: “The most expensive permit for this whole job was to get (piping) under the main highway and it cost them $US50.” And in NZ? “It would take you two years to get one. There’s no red tape in front of them for

Africans.

“Most of them thought Australia and New Zealand were the same place.

“You would say, ‘I’m from New Zealand’, and they would say ‘oh that’s awesome, I’ve been to Sydney before’.”

And that, perhaps, is simply Americans being themselves. Because to many of them, nothing is as big, or probably as important or relevant in their eyes, as the (good ol’) US of A. And that’s just what a couple of likely lads from Rainer Irrigation were privileged to experience and enjoy on a business fact-finding tour like no other.

ON TOUR IN THE STATES

every single decision they have to make.’’

• On visiting a Hutterian Brethren farm run by people similar to Amish colonies: They’re doing large-scale cropping on around 3237 hectares. They produce a lot of spuds, so the farm had six 8000-tonne potato sheds. It’s on a massive scale. Just this farm (alone) had 150 Zimmatic pivots on it. It was probably the biggest farm we visited.” To put that in perspective, a very large-scale dairy farm in New Zealand may have 10 pivots.

• On visiting the Nelson factory that supplies all of the Rainer sprinklers that go on to the pivots and end guns: “You can see why they make the best product in the world. The technology behind it is amazing. Basically plastic goes in one end and you get a fully-made sprinkler at the other end. The whole thing is

put together by robots.”

• The Lindsay irrigation factory HQ is in a town smaller than Rakaia but with a set-up that’s one of the biggest factories in the world: “You turn up at the Lindsay factory and there are just massive trucks [with big long trailers on them] lining up to pick up pivots and they’re just driving off all around America distributing pivots.” About 80 per cent of the pivots Lindsay makes are supplied to the domestic market and 20 per cent is international. And of the 20 per cent, New Zealand accounts for roughly 1 or 2 per cent.

• On experiencing the excitement and sheer size of a college football [gridiron] game in Nebraska: “There was a crowd there of 90,000 people and they’d sold out 360 consecutive games. Every week was a sell-out crowd. It is madness, just for college games.’’

A massive mound of wheat that farmers just pile on the ground in Oregon because it’s so dry there they can.

Above and below – Inside Cabela’s hunting and fishing store in Kansas City. The sheer amount of taxidermied animals, even rhinos and elephants, and guns lying around all over the place, made Thomas’ eyes bulge. “It’s certainly not something you would see in New Zealand ... which is a good thing.”

Above – After over an hour of cheerleaders and bands and fly-over jets doing their things, the Kiwi tourists got to see an American football game with the Nebraska Huskers playing, in Lincoln, Nebraska. Duncan said sport in America is next level.

efore a digger ever broke ground on Ashburton’s River Crossing precinct there was over a decade of work leading up

More than 10 years ago Tricro� Proper�es owner David Williams started acquiring proper�es with a goal to one day revitalise the area. That dream has now become a reality with the first sec�on of businesses up and running, which includes anchor tenant for the project Kmart, flanked by St Pierre’s Sushi and the relocated Coupland’s store.

While there is s�ll work to be done with another suite of food outlets comple�ng their final fit-outs, due to be completed early next year, it was a good moment to reflect on the project with Williams and Tricro� general manager Tony Gilbert.

Williams said that no-one ever gets to see the work that goes into buying all the �tles to make a project this size come together.

“A huge amount of �me and effort goes in at the beginning,” Williams said.

Kmart has been involved in the project for at least five years since the first discussions began, which led to years of planning work and consents before construc�on got under way. Once all the paperwork was signed off, the construc�on was completed in about

“The building part is probably the easier

part, once you’ve done all the planning,” Gilbert said

While Kmart brings its own design requirements, Tricro� wanted to make the precinct more than just the Kmart, intending to bring

more ac�vity around the whole area.

Along with Kmart, Tricro� has had to find nine other tenants, all based around food and hospitality due to the requirements set out in the Ashburton District Council consent. Of the

Tricroft Properties general manager Tony Gilbert couldn’t be prouder of the work his team has done.

Left – The Tricroft team kept a close eye on the project to ensure everything was delivered on time.

Right – A job well done, the completed site from above.

will be joined by Coffee Culture, Sal’s Pizza, The O�oman, Joe’s Garage and Amigos – all-new businesses to Ashburton.

“The Covid-19 situa�on was challenging for both par�es, in terms of who knew what the future was going to look like, so it is great that both of us found a way to get through and succeed.”

Gilbert said it was good to omplete the project on �me and within budget, given the added challenges thrown at them due to Covid-19 and weather events, including the May, 2021, floods.

“It was a credit to the good communica�on, and collabora�on between all those involved.”

Gilbert said the council was very helpful in priori�sing the project to help ensure everything ran smoothly.

The Tricro� team is very proud of their wider team who have made the project happen, because it was not just one person who put it all together.

The focus now for Tricro� is comple�ng the final fit-outs of the remaining businesses un�l around April next year.

One of the key contractors at the heart of the River Crossing project was the team at Thompson Construc�on Engineering & Precast.

General manager Mark Baird said he is proud of the team and what they’ve been able to achieve especially given the extra challenges thanks to major weather events and a global pandemic to contend with.

“We delivered on �me and on budget so from our point of view it all went very well, all in all another successful project,” Baird said.

Thompson was responsible for the design of the centre and construc�on of the main structures, working closely with the clients to ensure they had what they wanted.

The family-owned business has strong roots in Canterbury being based in Timaru for the last 42 years, and has completed many projects across the whole region including a number in Mid Canterbury and with Tricrio� Proper�es.

The team have diversified from where they first started in sheds to do any project that suits their skillset whether residen�al, retail, and commercial, with a range of projects across the whole of the Canterbury region.

As the main architect for the project Thompson were bought in from day one to help deliver the project, with all the designs for the precinct centred around the anchor store Kmart which is surrounded by food outlets.

“Kmart had a design brief they want to

achieve in their stores, they have some requirements to make the store layout similar to other stores so that is familiar to customers.”

Baird said the project did not present any extra challenges with their team skilled in a range of areas including retail spaces.

“It is what we do, and mee�ng the requirements for the client,” he said.

The main buildings are constructed out of precast concrete, something that Thompsons specialises in. The advantage of the precast is that it can all be done off site, and

once ready it can be brought to site and slo�ed in place very quickly reducing the �me on site and not relying on the weather to play ball.

The Thompson team took great pride when they a�ended the opening of Kmart last week, seeing their main sec�on of the project completed with other contractors coming in to do the final fit-out of the remaining businesses.

“It was pre�y cool to be involved in that, and the Ashburton public have taken it pre�y well.”

Left – Precast concrete panels made for quick onsite.

Below – Holding up the concrete slabs is a steel

Left – Kmart have a design template used at other locations.

Below – The site is designed to create activity around the whole precinct.

Founded by Lyndon Thompson, in 1979 he and his team of three started by building steel sheds to order before expanding into other areas of steel fabrica�on and then into small farm sheds.

The company con�nued to experience steady growth due to its growing reputa�on

for reliability and workmanship and in 2002 Lyndon’s sons Craig and Vaughan took over the day-to-day running of the business.

Lyndon’s daughter Michelle joined the family business in 2006, helping build the business into a major employer in Canterbury, South Canterbury and North Otago

with now over 100 full�me staff offering design to fabrica�on, and construc�on to delivery.

In 2011, Thompson opened an office in Christchurch, to not only support a high level of construc�on work in the region following the devasta�ng series of Christchurch earth-

quakes, but also due to natural expansion of the business generated by increased demand.

The same strong work ethic and high level of integrity hold as true today as what they did in 1979 and will con�nue to remain so for genera�ons to come.

Knowing what’s best in the long run

Canterbury Long Run Roofing Timaru combines extensive local expertise and exceptional service with a broad and innovative product range, enabling you to enjoy the benefits of best practical solutions and purchasing power.

The team is predominantly a manufacturing supplier for new roofs, reroofs, sheds, factories, fencing etc but also offer free measure/quotes, take offs & professional advice services.

Canterbury Long Run Roofing has your roofing/cladding completely covered – from ‘top to bottom’.

quick construction once steel skeleton.

When the founding brothers of New Zealand’s most recognised sushi brand first started they could never have predicted how well the business would take off.

They’re Nick, Costa, and Perry Katsoulis of St Pierres who are one of the new addi�ons to the River Crossing precinct, and a new addi�on to Ashburton.

One week a�er opening Nick said they are really happy to see the Ashburton community embracing the new addi�on to the town.

“We had a really good response from Rolleston, so the next big centre is Ashburton,” Nick said.

“We had a lot of customer feedback asking us to set up a store in Ashburton.”

St Pierres first store was set up as a delicatessen and seafood store, which began selling sushi on the side.

Originally it struggled with the New Zealand market not taking to the idea, but as �me went on, New Zealand’s culture became more diverse, and therefore the palate of Kiwis was broadened.

From there they have been able to set up over 70 stores na�onwide with Ashburton being number 13 in the South Island.

“We are all over the country now, the South Island is a really important market for us now,” Nick

said.

When the River Crossing site became available St Pierre’s saw it as a good opportunity to expand the business.

“The stores next to Kmart have always done well, we have another set-up in Papanui, and Invercargill next to Kmart stores.”

Nick said they have high standards for the sites they choose, which is why they haven’t

expanded into places such as Dunedin.

The River Crossing site was able to offer them a good flow of customers, thanks to Kmart and being posi�oned just off State Highway 1, with a lot of parking spaces available.

While Nick doesn’t dislike any of the sushi they sell, he par�cularly likes the salmon and avocado variety.

SUSHI NOW OPEN

NEXT TO KMART

Left – The founding three: Nick, Costa, and Perry Katsoulis at the first St Pierres in Wellington, 1984.

Below – The Ashburton St Pierres team ready and waiting to serve Mid Canterbury.

After years of planning, months of building, and growing anticipation the River Crossing development is now open. Located on the corner of Cass and South Sts in Ashburton, offering a new destination for retail and ACL are proud to be apart of such a prominent project in our community.

Our Civil Team lead by Alan have done a tremendous job over the last 2 years to produce such a great result. The River Crossing saw our teams work tirelessly on all demolition and foundational work, including all drainage infrastructure, sewer and water supply works along with the carpark construction, landscaping and more.

Works included:

Demolition of existing buildings on site

• Removal and disposal of contaminated materials

• Site scrap and clearance

• Stormwater Drainage

• Sewer Works

• Water Supply

• Foundation excavation and building preparation

• Carpark construction

• Construction of the ADC Dog Park carpark

• Landscaping

• Alterations to the Countdown Carpark

The project ran smoothly with a great team alongside Tricroft Properties and Thompson Engineering and our dedicated subcontractors.

“It’s always great working on a site where all trades work together in harmony to ensure each could efficiently complete tasks.”

The project ran to timeline and to budget, which is always a great effort. We are so proud to have been involved in the construction of this outstanding facility, 4 years ago with the Countdown site and now the Kmart and additional retail sites. We look forward to the next project like this within our community.

At ACL, we complete projects of all sizes by leveraging our tools, knowledge, and experience. From bridge building to footpaths and beyond, our team is committed to producing high-caliber finished works throughout the civil contracting and construction industries.

DriveThru

Got a car question? Maybe Roger can help.

subs@theguardian.co.nz

This CX-5 Activ with its Zircon Sand Metallic colour scheme (which changes tones with the weather) was obviously a very appropriate colour for my visit to the Military and Aviation Extravaganza at the airport last weekend.

It is one of the now seven different, updated models within the long-serving and best-selling, both in and out of NZ, CX-5 range.

Updates include Mi-Drive (drive mode selection), styling tweaks including a new grille, enhanced driving dynamics, improvements within, and more safety features.

While the Activ costs $51,390 (plus ORCs), other CX-5s start from $42,690 through to $64,690 for the Takami 2.5T.

Prices includes a five-year, unlimited km warranty and roadside assistance together with three year/100,000km scheduled servicing.

Most CX-5 are zero rated for Clean Car fees, the exceptions being the turbo-petrol SP25T and said Takami, which incur fees of approx. $1552.

Activ for the more active

No surprises then to learn that this Activ is aimed at meeting the needs of people with more energetic lifestyles and those who may seek out roads less travelled, perhaps even on the likes of ‘Dads Army’ exercises.

Visual clues for the Activ include a lime green highlight on the grille, while inside that colour features on the dash air vents and seat stitching.

Quality within

There’s a nice feel about the cabin. Initially the lime green accents on the otherwise quite traditional-looking dash seemed a little out of place, but I soon became used to this.

All controls are easy to both quickly identify and operate.

I like the large, distraction-free, rotary control on centre console used to select menus for the centre infotainment screen with its adequate parking guidelines, satnav etc.

There’s a head-up driving display and proactive radar cruise.

As well as being easy to use, the cabins easily accessed via wide opening doors both front and rear.

Up front both the drivers and passenger seats (they’re suede covered) proved to be both comfortable and supportive over longer campaigns. They are manu-

ally adjusted though, and without in-seat heating.

Very good space also in the rear seats, which can be folded by remote controls in luggage space for the likes of anti-tank weapons or mountain bikes.

There’s a water-resistant luggage floor for all that wet/dirty stuff.

With the rear seats occupied, there’s 438 litres available for luggage, or 1304 litres seats folded. A space-saver spare is beneath.

Engine/transmission

The 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine produces 140kW and 252Nm, the latter peaking at 4000rpm, however, there’s still plenty of torque on hand at lower revs for the smooth operating, proactive 6-speed auto to make the best use of.

The result is a very easy to drive nature, both about town and on the open road, with suitably quick responses when and as required.

And that’s in the Normal drive mode.

Selecting Sport sharpens things up even more, but for most of everyday driving Normal is more than fine. In it 100kmh is at 2000rpm.

While the overall fuel use is a stated 8.2l/100km, for our missions it was 8.5L/100km.

Handling and ride

While CX-5s have a comfortable riding focus, they too have nicely weighted, positive feeling steering and of course the benefit of Mazda’s Zoom Zoom skills of being able to continually keep finessing the suspension.

This time with improved rigidity and changed spring rates for an even more well sorted ride/handling mix with it

turning in very nicely and being rather a delight on winding roads.

Quiet too, with well contained engine, wind and road noise.

On tracks

The Activ (as does the Takami) has an Off-Road Mode. When selected this sends constant (rather than on-demand) drive to the rear wheels to deal with beaches, tracks and slippery surfaces. Ground clearance is 193 mm.

Safety

There’s many safety/drivers assist features, and the expected five-star ANCAP safety rating.

SP25T and Takami siblings

They have 2.5-litre turbo-petrol engines delivering 170kW of power and 420Nm of torque at 2000rpm.

So, in addition to always having plenty of get up and go (0-100kmh in seven seconds) they’re able to, and very willingly, tow 2000kg.

Like the Activ they are quiet and refined, but do like a drink if you are in a real hurry. Otherwise, their stated overall fuel use is 9.1L/100km.

This CX-5 Activ very ably demonstrated just what a consistently good allround package it is by showing off its capability for indulging in an adventure or two, without sacrificing any of its comfort or classy driving characteristics.

When Barbie meets Maserati

Italian luxury icon Maserati is thrilled to unveil an unprecedented collaboration with Mattel, Inc.’s Barbie®, driven by the mutual desire to break boundaries and showcase the unique flair of both brands.

Both immediately recognisable by their extraordinary personality and signature style, Maserati and Barbie unleashed their creativity in a masterpiece of timeless design and bold character, inspired by the Barbiecore phenomenon.

The fruit of this unconventional collaboration is expressed through an ultra-limited edition Maserati Grecale, designed to turn everyday driving experiences into something outstanding, and selected by Barbie to match her multi-faceted lifestyle ranging from a business meeting to a glamourous event.

This bold Fuoriserie Maserati Grecale pulsates pure adrenaline thanks to its powerful 530-hp V6 Nettuno engine.

The SUV’s exteriors, adorned with the Barbie logo, are sealed with an iridescent topcoat that reveals an incredible rainbow effect on a beautiful sunny day.

With the V4 and V4 S models, together with the more exclusive and performing V4 SP2, Ducati continues in the application and evolution of the winning Fight Formula to remain at the top of the segment with an unrivalled level of equipment.

First unveiled to the public in 2020, the Streetfighter V4 was an instant success and set new performance benchmarks in the super sports naked segment.

Universally appreciated for its aggressive and minimalist aesthetic, characterised by a front inspired by the Joker of the comics, the Streetfighter V4 immediately entered the hearts of enthusiasts.

The natural evolution of the family is a bike that pushes the concepts of Fight Formula even further, the key elements of which are the Panigale V4 stripped of the fairings, high and wide handlebar, 178 kg weight, 208 hp Desmosedici Stradale engine, biplane wings and lat est generation electronic package.

Ducati Streetfighter V4 2023 trans mits sportiness, thanks to the standard single-seater configuration with saddle

and passenger footrests supplied.

The design of the Streetfighter V4 is direct and minimal, with its full-LED front light and its V-shaped DRL that recalls the Panigale V4’s front view.

The low, forward-canted front, as to extend the strong lines of the tank, gives the bike a predator look.

The fuel tank has the same shapes as on the Panigale V4 2022, which are designed to better support the rider during braking and cornering.

The new Front Frame and the Desmosedici Stradale are left uncovered as much as possible, with a minimal bodywork that create a clean, essential ensemble.

Engine

The 1103 cc Desmosedici Stradale, capable of delivering 208 hp at 13,000 rpm and 123 Nm in Euro-5 configura tion, has been revised in calibration to match the larger diameter of the silenc er outlet, introduced in order to reduce the exhaust back pressure.

In addition, on the right side there is the clutch cover of the Panigale V4, which allows you to easily mount the dry clutch and the clutch cover protec tion.

Protecting your photos

By Connor Lysaght

Many of us have albums or even entire boxes full of precious family photo graphs at home that we would like to preserve for ourselves and future generations.

Often, people will have a jum ble of different formats in their possession, such as negatives, slides, and photographic prints, which all can serve as a record of important memories and family history.

You might have your pho tographs all sitting in random cardboard boxes, or they are in plastic sleeves that are stored on a bookshelf in the living room, or in your shed, attic, or storage unit.

Sadly, proper techniques for preserving family photographs are not common knowledge. You or someone you know may have had the misfortune of having gone to retrieve some precious photographs to show a visitor or family member, only to find them in a poor state.

Problems such as moisture, mould, pests, poor temperature control, and improper packaging materials can all pose a threat to photograph collections.

With the opening of the Ashburton Museum’s latest exhibition, Spotlight on Burnett Street, we also held a talk on

photograph preservation.

The topics that were discussed included the different factors that can damage photographs, how the museum looks after its collections, and how to properly preserve photographs at home.

This article will recap some of the key points that were cov ered, and expand on some photo formats that weren’t mentioned in the talk.

The following points will hope fully give you some ideas about how to protect your own special photos.

Photograph degradation

Damage and deterioration of photographs comes in many different forms, and this depends on the type of photograph and the materials it’s made of.

Here are some things to look out for and what you should do:

■ Film negatives: are they becoming discoloured or dis torted? Do they have a strong odour similar to vinegar? If they are acetate-backed safety film, they might be suffering from vinegar syndrome.

You should get these scanned as soon as possible and freeze them to preserve the image for as long as possible. Otherwise, negatives should be stored individually in acid-free enve lopes or conservation-grade

plastic sleeves. Limit exposure to light. Handle only by the edges, with nitrile gloves.

■ Glass plate negatives: these are brittle and should be handled with care. Is the image peeling or becoming distorted? These will often need specialist cleaning or care, and should be stored in individual enclo sures, stored vertically and packed tightly. Use a clean, very soft-bristled brush (con servation-grade preferred) to remove any dust and debris if it is safe to do so without risking the image.

■ Slides: dust and prolonged light exposure are two major concerns for slides. Be careful only to handle these by the edges. Clean and store similar ly to glass plates for longevity. Separate slides that have cardboard, plastic, and glass frames, and store like-with-like to avoid chemical interactions and acid burn.

■ Photograph prints: for older prints, handle with extreme care to avoid tears. Handle with gloves as skin oils can cause long-term damage. Avoid dust, moisture, and prolonged light

exposure. Pests such as silver fish eat paper and lay eggs, so if this is a concern, be sure to freeze afflicted items.

Lay silverfish traps in previous storage area, brush off debris, and store in better conditions.

Proper storage conditions

It is important to store photographs in suitable conditions, paying special attention to the temperature and humidity of your chosen storage area. A general rule of thumb for storing photo graphs is that colder and dryer conditions are always best.

Different types of photographs are most stable in slightly differ ent conditions, but the differences are very minute and this rule is a good catch-all.

Ideally, temperature should be between roughly 10 to 18°C and humidity should be between 35 to 50 per cent.

Temperature fluctuations are also extremely harmful to photographs in the long-term. For example, if your storage area jumps from warm to cool several times throughout the day, or if it is very hot in the summer and very cold in the winter, this can cause

damage to your collection.

Higher temperatures and damp conditions not only threaten the stability of images, but can also pose two further threats: mould growth and pest infestation.

Mould begins to grow once the temperature reaches roughly 21°C and relative humidity reaches above 55 per cent.

Once mould has taken root on a photograph for example, there is no way to fully eradicate it. Freezing and dusting off surface mould will help, but since it eats into the paper, permanent image loss can occur.

Pests such as silverfish seek out warm and damp environments such as crawlspaces, and the damage that they can cause to photographs printed on paper is drastic and irreversible.

When choosing a place to store precious photographs, it is important to pick a reasonably dry place, such as a cupboard or wardrobe in your home where the temperature is cool and constant, and fluctuates very little.

You can use products such as silica gel desiccant packets to en sure that your storage space stays dr y. Replace desiccant packets periodically.

Acid-free envelopes, boxes and plastic sleeves, which are also de void of other harmful chemicals, can be bought online through reputable suppliers such as Con servation Supplies.

Food-grade, BPA-free plastic tubs from brands such as Sistema are also suitable for storing pre cious items.

If you were previously una ware of photograph preservation techniques, hopefully with this information in your arsenal you may have some idea of how to preserve your precious photos at home, or help a friend or family member with theirs.

For more information about photograph preservation, the National Library have an online resource with guides for how to care for collections.

Visit the website via this web address: natlib.govt.nz/collec tions

View of the Tinwald Hotel, taken in 1897. The left side of the image has been damaged physically over time, likely by improper handling and storage. AM&HS Collection (Photo reference 05.2013.0908).

A glass plate negative which was too damaged to be salvaged for the Hal ma Studio glass plate negative collection.

from the Charles Tindall collection which has degrad

vinegar syndrome. AM&HS Collection (Photo

Storage solution for the Gordon Binsted collection at the Ashburton Museum.

Class of 2022

The Lochore Cup final was the last outing for our Mid Canterbury rugby boys in 2022. Matt Markham has a look at how the season unfolded for the Hammers, who impressed on the paddock, and how the future might be looking.

Stags out to continue their strong start

SHORT SHARP & Clubs NZ Petanque

The Tech Stags will be out to continue their golden start to the 2022-2023 Tweedy Cup this afternoon, when they duck down the road to Temuka for third round senior cricket action.

Two from two and looking right on song early doors to defend their crown won earlier this year, the Stags have been ruthless in both matches to this point – a style of play they’ll be sure to want to carry through the season.

Temuka come into the match with a win and a loss next to their name – both matches have been hard-fought affairs with not many runs scored, which could see a desire from the Stags today to throw their rivals out in the middle early and see if they can get them to set a target that’s worthwhile chasing down.

So far, they’ve been able to choose a really balanced side, with a good mix of batting specialists and also a strong bowling attack which has served them well.

Jason Morrison has been in

good form so far, picking up a century in week one and then a half century in week two, and Matt Tait scored big in their last match. Richard Print and Harry Jones, both of whom played for Mid Canterbury last weekend, have shown good form with the ball in their hand.

While they head down the road, Allenton face another stiff test as they host the Celtic Senior

SPORTS RESULTS

■ Golf

Ashburton Golf Club

Wednesday, October 27 - Competition: Stableford.

Sega Golf Winner over the Field: Peter Walker 69-3-66 42 pts, 2nd David Robertson 41pts,  3rd Murray Moorhead 41pts.

Other good nett scores were: Ray Suttie 39pts, Rex Bennett 38pts, John MacArthur 38pys, Ivan Blain 38pts, Grame Munro 38pts, Ross Chatterton 38pts, Guildford Lane 37pts, Norm McFarlane 35pts, Merv Green 35pts, Ray Lambert 35pts and Terry Molloy 34pts.

Twos: Charlie Alexander, Ken Borland, John Lyons, John Ramsay & Royce Jamieson. Phat Duck Closest to the pin: Hole 14#: Rex Bennett. McKay & Donaldson E-Bike: Closest to the Pin Hole 8#: John Ramsay.

Methven Golf Club

Methven Ladies, Wednesday October 26 – Captain and Secretary’s Choice, stableford secret pairs.

Roz Grant & Morag Neil 77. Best Scores, Ruth Smith 94-26-68, Roz Grant 98-2870, Morag Neil 98-27-71.

Nawab Best Nett of the Day: Ruth Smith 68.

Nearest the Pins: No 4 Open and Br B 2nd Shot Primo Bev Isherwood. No 6 Open Methven Foursquare Becky Hood. No 13 Open Methven Pharmacy Jan Lane. No 17 Open Methven Travel Jan Lane.

No 14 Br B 2nd Shot Supervalue Roz Grant.

Twos and Nett Eagles: Ruth Smith x2. Becky Hood x3. Roz Grant.

Rakaia Golf Club

Rakaia Ladies Golf Club – Cup, Trophies and Prize List.

side at home on the Ashburton Domain. Like the Stags, the Celtic side are two-from-two, including a good win over the always powerful Pleasant Point side, so the pressure will be on the Allenton side to start building a bit of form.

That might come down to one of their best in Satveer Singh, who showed last week on representative duty that he’s a high-

class player with a quick 50, and then did some damage with the ball as well.

Continuity and partnership building out in the middle have always been an Achilles heel for the side, and you can’t help but wonder if they get that sorted whether they’ll become a force to be reckoned with.

Both matches get under way at 12 noon.

Ashburton is getting ready to host some of the best petanque players in the country. During Christchurch show weekend, the Clubs NZ Petanque tournament will be held at the Ashburton MSA Petanque Club on Racecourse Road. Big numbers are set to converge for the three-day event and entries are still coming in. Ashburton MSA Pentaque Club publicity o cer Joan Healey said that in order to compete in the event players had to be a member of any chartered club within New Zealand, and that the local players were getting right in behind the event with strong entries from within the Ashburton region. The tournament begins on Show Day, Friday, and runs through until Sunday with triples, doubles and singles all played.

McCann gets call-up

Noted Mid Canterbury ex-pat tennis player, Tessa McCann, has continued her rise up the ranks of tennis in New Zealand with an invitation to compete in one of the most illustrious interclub tournaments in the land.

Sandra Quinn: RLGC Junior Bronze A Champion, Runner-up Richards Cup – Mary Hilgendorf Bowl, Mr & Mrs EC Gardiner Cup – Putting Cup, Kathleen Lawler Trophy, Harrison Trophy, Gross Ringers, Nancy McCormick together with Sally Smith, Eclectic.

Sally Smith: Runner-up Bronze A Champion Lloyd Trophy, Richards Memorial Challenge Cup, Bryant Cup, Connelly Cup, Janice Dent Trophy – Best Nett over field this winter, June Cromie Trophy – Over 60s, Parr Tree (jointly), Nancy McCormick together with Sandra Quinn, Approach & Putt, Longest Drive, Chip ins.

Bev Sutherland: RLGC Mr & Mrs Stevens Cup Bronze B Champion.

Fiona Rushton: Runner-up Bronze B Champion Lloyd Trophy, Nett Ringers.

Teresa Booker: Thomas Trophy, Scott Trophy, Birdie Tree.

Freda Bierema: Parr Tree (jointly).

Judy Moore: 9 hole Best Gross – Moore Cup, 9 hole Putting competition – V. Bell Trophy, Par Tree, Sue Bunt, Eclectic.

Faye McLennan: Gross Ringers, Nett Ringers. LGU Medal Bronze section: Sally Smith.

■ Tennis

Mid Canterbury Tennis

Twilight Tennis October 26

Young Blood 18 beat Grand Slammers 16, We Are Stihil Suzuki 19 beat Know Eye Deer 14, Donalds Dux 20 beat 40 love 13.

Famous Grouse 17 beat Called To Serve 16, Hackers 18 beat Between The Lines 15, What’s The Score bye.

Family A air 20 beat What the Deuce 13, Grip N Rip 22 beat Doubles Shots 11.

The talented hot-shot was in Auckland yesterday, competing in the first day of the Caro Bowl, Auckland’s premier interclub competition. McCann stepped out for the Kohimarama team and slotted straight into the top of the order, playing in the No.1 position. It’s been a strong start to the year for the multiple Gala Cup singles winner with a good start for her Christchurch Premier side, Cashmere, who picked up a good win against their clubmates in the opening round of the season.

Drought-breaking success

Four members of the Ashburton Golf Club turned back the clock nearly 40 years last weekend when they went north to compete in the Norton Francis Cup at the Christchurch Golf Club in Shirley. The quartet took on teams from other Canterbury Country-based golf clubs and walked away with the victory, giving Ashburton its first success in the tournament since 1983. The Ashburton Golf Club side was made up of Neil MacDonald, Greig Sparrow, Charlie Alexander and Paddy Bradford.

Simon ‘fizzing’ for quarter-final clash

Black Fern Kendra Cocksedge, who is at her fourth and final Rugby World Cup, has issued a warning to Wales ahead of the quarter-final in Whangarei.

The last time these two sides met in pool play the Black Ferns defeated Wales 56-12, but New Zealand will put a different side on the park today.

Cocksedge said there was a “good edge and energy” in the squad that had been based in Tutukaka this week.

The return of loose forward and co-captain Kennedy Simon to the game day 23 for the first time in the tournament was “exciting”, Cocksedge said.

Simon was plagued by injuries this year and missed all of the pool games.

“Watch out Wales, she’s fizzing.

“It’s been tough for her sitting on the sidelines and watching the group,” Cocksedge said.

“I’m very close with Kennedy and I know that she’s just going to come out there tomorrow and she’s going to be fired up, and we know she’s got a real physical game in terms of her ball carrying and in the contact area.”

Cocksedge acknowledged Wales’ forwards were better than the Black Ferns during the game in Waitakere.

“They dominated our set piece in terms of their scrums and driving mauls, and we’ve done a lot of work on that this week to counteract that.

“We’ve been making a few mistakes over the last few games that we’re trying to tidy up.”

Ahead of the knockout game

on getting an 80 minute performance out.

“We’ve started well and haven’t

ended well and visa versa so we’re really keen to out that out there and progress to the semi-finals.”

Cocksedge had signalled be-

fore world cup she would retire on home soil.

But before she hung up her boots she knew her vast experience was important around the group that had some players attending their first world cup.

“As an experienced player I have to be able to handle my nerves ... if the young ones see me nervous or in the red then they’re going to feel uncomfortable.

“That’s the great thing about experience and being to four world cups and the amount of footy and competitions I’ve played that’s helped me to realise that and work through that.

“It’s just a way you learn around your mental skills and how you hold yourself in front of the group.”

Allenton will be out to find some form in senior cricket action today when they host the unbeaten Celtic Seniors on the Ashburton Domain Oval. PHOTO ASHBURTON GUARDIAN.

Matt Markham

Cocksedge said the focus was

Kendra Cocksedge has sounded a warning for the Welsh.

It’s about more than just the results on the paddock...

It would be easy, given the results, to be critical of a season that promised so much, but ultimately delivered so little.

And perhaps we should be; we do set a pretty high bar for Mid Canterbury in the Heartland Championship, and expect them to be title contenders each and every season.

Yet for some reason, it doesn’t feel like this was a season to be overly critical about.

Sure, we lost games we shouldn’t have lost, and there were games that we had control of that somehow slipped away, but underneath the façade of final scorelines, there seemed to be a real movement in the way the Mid Canterbury Rugby Union is approaching the representative game that leaves room for optimism about what lies ahead.

Gone, it would seem, are the days of individual squads doing their own thing for a campaign

and then getting together to celebrate or commiserate with everyone else once it’s all over.

There’s a collective feel across the board that shows growth and a shift towards better pathways, better systems and better prospects for the future of the Union at the representative level.

Take the development side for example.

It’s always been seen as the place where those who are deemed not quite good enough for Heartland rugby to go so they still get a chance to wear the green and gold. The ‘B Team’ if you like, with all of its negative connotations.

Not anymore.

That side this year was carefully selected with the top-flight side in mind.

They worked together, they learned together, and they devel-

oped their games together.

Couple that with the Colts side, and even the younger age group teams, and there’s strong foundation work being put in place to try and secure Mid Canterbury’s systems and pathways to ensure we’ve always got a strong core group of players to pick from for many years to come.

which perhaps we are already starting to see some of the benefits of.

But unfortunately, rugby games aren’t won in the development of pathways and programmes.

A slow start by the Hammers this year had them on the back foot from the outset.

Losses to Buller and the East Coast and then to King Country really hurt their season.

for next season and beyond.

We looked good enough – and you only have to think back to that first 50 minutes against South Canterbury where we had their backs up against the wall and made them sweat, to know that it wasn’t far off being a really good side capable of winning the competition.

But it wasn’t to be.

And you know what?

That’s OK, for now at least.

A lot of that credit can go down to incoming head coach, John Sherratt.

Shu, as he’s known, is all about the bigger picture, and works on the real belief that if rugby is strong in a region from the lower levels up then it’s of huge benefit to the region’s most prolific team.

It’s a work in progress, but one

Only the plethora of bonus points gathered in those early matches through finishing within seven points of the winning team, and or scoring four tries in the match really kept them in touch.

How we scraped through to the Lochore Cup Final is anyone’s guess – but perhaps also a nod towards the future potential of the side, should we be able to retain a good core group of them

‘Fridge’ selected for Heartland XV

He’s a bit of character, is Adam ‘Fridge’ Williamson.

We can demand and expect better, but at the end of the day this is a team of dairy farm workers, builders, sales representatives and office workers who have given their all to the green and gold of Mid Canterbury for months.

They’re not perfect, and in rugby there’s always winners and losers, and this year we were the latter more than we were the former.

How Mid Canterbury returns in 2023 will be the real definition of exactly where things are at.

“

But man, can he play rugby. Earlier this week he was named as the only member of this year’s Mid Canterbury side to gain selection into the New Zealand Heart land XV, who will play the New Zealand Po lice side at Owen De lany Park in Taupo on November 6.

A quietly spoken individual, he let his talking happen with the way he approached his rugby, and week af ter week he stepped up and led from the front.

While all the technical and often unseen stuff is good, where Fridge really comes into his own is when given a sniff at a try-line.

One of the most technically cor rect scrum exponents Mid Canter bury has seen, Williamson stepped into the role of co-captain alongside Tyler Blackburn this season, and re ally rose to the occasion.

While all the technical and often unseen stuff is good, where Fridge really comes into his own is when given a sniff at a try-line.

Deceptively quick on his feet, he baffled more than a few defenders

with his power onto the ball during the season and scored a few great tries for Mid Canterbury, and argua bly was one of the best on the pad dock in last weekend’s Lochore Cup final loss to the East Coast boys.

His Heartland selec tion this week is just reward for a massive season of toil in the engine room, not only for the Mid Canterbury side but also for Southern during the club rugby season.

He’s proven to be an excellent am bassador for rugby in this district, and will undoubtedly do everyone proud up in Taupo.

At the end of the day this is a team of dairy farm workers, builders, sales representatives and office workers who have given their all to the green and gold of Mid Canterbury

“

Adam Williamson.

As the curtain falls on another Heartland Rugby championship campaign for Mid Canterbury, Matt Markham, who has followed them every step of the way, looks back on the year that was for the Hammers.

From one end to the other –the try of the year

Oamaru’s Whitestone Contracting Stadium, semi-final time against North Otago.

Time is almost up on the clock and North Otago are on attack, but a turnover lands the ball in the hands of Harry Burgess, who charges from his own goal-line.

He leaves a defender in his wake before getting the ball into the hands of Shepherd Mhembere, who promptly decides to impersonate a battering ram and belts his way over a few defenders to work down the field to the North Otago 22.

From the ruck, a loose pass somehow finds its way into the hands of Raitube Vasurakuta, who doesn’t need a second invitation to take the gaping hole in the defence to sprint through and score a length of the field try to really put a stamp on the Hammers’ best performance of the season.

John Sherratt said after the match, seeing a line up of North Otago players lying on the ground after being battered and crushed was one of the greatest sights a coach can see.

It’s hard to disagree if you’re a

Our player of the year

A lot of internal debate went on here.

Also, a lot of reviewing episodes of Mainfreight Rugby, and the three matches that were televised on Sky Sport. God bless the invention of MySky.

To be fair, it could have been any one of a number of players. But sometimes, being a great player for your team isn’t about doing all the flash stuff like scoring all the tries or creating all the breaks, it’s more about rolling the sleeves up and diving into your job and doing it to the best of your ability.

Logan Bonnington exemplified that.

Not quite old enough to call a stalwart of the local game, but experienced enough to be one of the senior figure heads in this year’s side, Bonno went about his job with minimal fuss and week in and week out gave everything he had.

It was fitting that his 50th match in the green and gold came last Saturday in the final, but a shame that he didn’t get a trophy to go with his commemorative jersey.

To just watch periods of a game and note the work he does around the paddock is proof enough that he’s been a star all season.

Good at the breakdown and not afraid to get his hands on the ball and have a crack, he’s been a pillar throughout the year.

There’s also the small matter of being a history-maker too. That golden point try against North Otago in Kurow, what a moment – the first of its kind in Heartland rugby history.

Word has it that by the end of that night he’d dashed 45 metres to score it, and perhaps by now it’s that he received the ball under his own posts and went the length of the field.

Either way, we’ve seen a more complete version of Logan Bonnington this season, one that’s called on his experience and been a steady influence on those around him out on the paddock. A job well done.

How it all unfolded Nasi Manu – a case of what could have been

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly how much of a difference a fully-fit, injury free Nasi Manu would have made to this year’s squad, but there’s enough evidence in the minutes he did play that the Hammers were a better side when he was on the paddock.

Call it what you like, but good players often bring out the best in others.

They want to complement them so try their best to rise to the next level, and in the moments where Manu made impact, the tails went up and Mid Canterbury charged.

So, it’s a real shame that we didn’t get to see more of it. Not only for the side and the region, but for Manu himself.

The man was literally buzzing at the prospect of giving his all for the Hammers, and seeing him go down that day against South Canterbury and knowing that the season was over was a tough watch for those on the sidelines.

What happens next for the former international and Super Rugby winning captain?

Who knows.

There’s talk of a shift back down to Dunedin with a view to coaching in the future, which is great news for the game in New Zealand because he’s such an influential rugby identity and many will benefit from his passion and knowledge.

Our only hope is that there’s a space in there somewhere for Mid Canterbury at some point perhaps, because he really does now feel like one of our own.

The bright point was that we did get to see him in full-flight. And boy was it good.

That try, against East Coast in Ashburton, where he brushed off a defender in a manner that would have made the late Jonah Lomu proud, one of the best of the season from a player in green and gold – but not quite the best, as you can see above.

Week One: Mid Canterbury 29 lost to Buller 34: (Adam Williamson 2, Tom Reekie, Michael Hennings tries; Reekie 2 conv, pen; Nathan McCloy conv.)

Week Two: Mid Canterbury 34 lost to East Coast 36: (Raitube Vasurakuta 2, Nathan McCloy, Nasi Manu tries; McCloy 4 conv, 2 pen)

Week Three: Mid Canterbury 48 beat West Coast 15: (Isireli Masiwini, Michael Hennings, Kaydis Hona, Waitangi Tuisuga, Tyler Blackburn, Tom Reekie, Manasa Samo tries; Tom Middleton 4 conv, 1 pen; Reekie 1 conv.)

Week Four: Mid Canterbury 40 beat North Otago 35 (golden point): (Raitube Vasurakuta 2, Isireli Masiwini, Manasa Samo, Logan Bonnington tries; Tom Reekie 3 conv, 3 pen.)

Week Five: Mid Canterbury 22 lost to King Country 34: (Isireli Masiwini, Manasa Samo, Tyler Blackburn tries; Tom Reekie 1 pen, conv. Nathan McCloy 1 conv.)

Week Six: Mid Canterbury 15 beat Horowhenua Kapiti 13: (John Vasurakuta, Tyler Blackburn tries; Nathan McCloy pen, conv)

Week Seven: Mid Canterbury 13 lost to South Canterbury 36: (Adam Williamson try, Nathan McCloy 2 conv, pen)

Week Eight: Mid Canterbury 13 lost to Whanganui 46: (Kaydis Hona try; Tom Reekie 2 pen, 1 conv.)

Lochore Cup Semi-final: Mid Canterbury 31 beat North Otago 15: (Raitube Vasurakuta 2, Hunter Stewart, John Vasurakuta, Nathan McCloy tries; Tom Reekie 2 conv, Nathan McCloy conv.)

Lochore Cup Final: Mid Canterbury 20 lost to East Coast 25: (Manasa Samo, Nathan McCloy tries; Nathan McCloy 2 pen, 2 conv.)

Leading try scorers: Raitube Vasurakuta 6, Manasa Samo 4, Adam Williamson 3, Nathan McCloy 3, Isireli Masiwini 3, Tyler Blackburn 3.

Leading point scorers: Nathan McCloy 57, Tom Reekie 51, Raitube Vasurakuta 30, Manasa Samo 20.

Nasi Manu on the charge toward scoring his first try for Mid Canterbury.

PHOTO MIKE LEWIS

The Ashburton Guardian’s player of the year, Logan Bonnington.

Sister Sarah, Mattric, Meritorious, Marching On Tavi

Bolshoi Star, Nakamoto, That’s Chaming, Precamba

Dubai Lady, Anahera, Global Beauty, Midnight Jane

Lombardi, Bad Flamingo, Ceedoublejay, Steve Austin

Telling Tales, Diamond Riviere, Theunnamedfeeling, Spindleshanks

Race 8: Perfectly Suited, Iffraajable, Sharpie, Proserve

Race 9: How Unusual, Aerial Blue, Goodanya, Valrian

Race 10: Redford, Anduin, King Cougar, Doris Dior

BEST BET: Perfectly Suited (Race 8)

VALUE: Dubai Lady (Race 5)

O’Reilly 6 1679 Proviseur C J Dalgety 7 42121 Changearound Monika Ranger 8 46110 Maximilian Cr ystal Hackett 9 13x22 Kikorangi Blue Wilson House R6 MURRAY EDMONDS FILLIES & MARES MOBILE PACE $11,000 1900m 18:04

BEST: Wild Willow (R2) VALUE: I’m Your Huckleberry (R3)

Samantha Wynne is down to be aboard Pheroz Friends in the first on the day at Ashburton on Sunday.

Monika Ranger is an interesting addi tion to the drivers’ ranks at Kaikoura. By

How many runs did Don Bradman score in his only innings against New Zealand?

How many test matches did the White Ferns play between 1996 and 2003?

None

One

Six

Which team was first to win the first NZ Sportsman of the Year Award?

1987 All Blacks

2013 softball team

1971 rowing eight

How many games did Tana Umaga play for Wellington?

48 b) 68 c) 100

Which All Black won the 2005 Dancing With The Stars? a) Norm Hewitt b) Keven Mealamu c) Anton Oliver 6. Onny Parun made the final of the Australian Open in 1973. Which Australian beat him? a) John Newcombe b) Ken Rosewall c) Geo Masters 7. Who scored the last try when the Black Ferns beat Wales 56-12 a couple of weeks ago? a) Portia Woodman b) Ruby Tui c) Sarah Hirini 8. In 1973 the All Blacks were beaten by an NZRFU President’s XV. Who captained the President’s team? a) Ian Kirkpatrick b) Tane Norton c) Colin Meads

ADULT

ENTERTAINMENT

NEW Asian – Sweetie, Beautiful, Busty, 40DD, Friendly. Good Service and Good Massage. Phone 0210372083.

THERES Hope. Would suit Older Gentleman. The New Me. Please Phone 021 02759055.

GARAGE SALES

SATURDAY, 29 October - Oxford Street, Hampstead. (Signpost at the gate from 2pm). Complete clearance of household items, everything going cheap, many items free. We need a complete clearance, everything must go, no reasonable offer refused.

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

MOTORING

WHEEL alignments at great prices. Maximise the life of your tyres with an alignment from Neumanns Tyre Services Ltd, 197 Wills Street. Phone 308 6737.

SPECIALISED SERVICES

FIRE Extinguisher sales and servicing. On farm contractors – trucks/ tractors/balers/combines/ cars/boats/caravans etc. Phone Mack at Doors and More on 0273960361.

TRADES, SERVICES

LOCKSMITH/Door repairs. Keys/Locks, sliding and bifold door roller repairs. Mobile service. Call Nigel at Doors and More. Ph 027 516 7104

Touching People’s Lives

SITUATIONS VACANT

People & Culture Manager

Looking for an incredible opportunity in making a difference, love the enjoyment of enriching people’s lives through promoting organisational values and culture, then this position is a fantastic opportunity to develop your skill base with a large family owned business while leading and embracing our new direction of HR support.

The above position has become available within our store; we are looking for a strong, motivated, positive team player who would enjoy the challenges of supermarket retailing, but can also add their own flare to our most important asset, “Our People”

While our values and culture are first and foremost, we are looking for someone that can continue to evolve our people strategy while maintaining our “One Team” approach to business, this combined with the development of a communication platform that enables first class interactions across all areas of the store.

Key responsibilities of this position include:

• Manage the talent acquisition / recruitment selection process

• Provide effective HR support to Management Team and staff members

• Develop staff retention strategies in alignment with Manager / Owner

• Provide and support Managers with both training and performance / development review reporting.

• Develop alongside management a professional career development and succession programme.

• Delivery of Excellent Customer Service

Key competencies required for this position are:

SITUATIONS VACANT

Workshop Manager

Grant Hood Contracting Limited operate an innovative earthmoving business based at Ashburton, which services the greater Canterbury region and specific larger projects and developments further afield. The fleet consists of diggers, scrapers (Cat). Loaders, graders (Cat), pumps, trucks, trailers and a range of service vehicles, all operated by a large team of competent drivers.

We pride ourselves on our excellent staff management practices and training.

A high priority on Health and Safety.

Due to our current Workshop Manager moving on, we are now looking for someone qualified to fill this full-time position.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, taking full responsibility for the scheduled servicing and on-going maintenance requirements of all plant.

This person will have experience in a similar role, have great organisational and time management skills, excellent record keeping and be an effective communicator.

We Help Save Lives

• Qualification in Human Resource Management or similar

• Experience in HR Management in a medium-sized business

• Sound knowledge of New Zealand employment and immigration related legislation and standards

WANTED

FISHING – long time collector of old / vintage fishing tackle is looking to fill gaps in his collection. Anything considered. Top prices paid. phone Steve 03 3242064.

GENUINE private cash buyer, wanting Falcons, Holdens, Valiants or any pre 1990 vehicles suitable for preservation. Phone 021 02914847 or 03 615 7930

We help save lives every day through the research and development of improved diagnosis, better prediction and treatment of heart disease in our hospital and community.

Find out how you can help by visiting: www.otago.ac.nz/chchheart

• Solid computer skills including the ability to use spreadsheets

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

• The ability to influence others through positive team engagement

• Having an engaging and positive manner.

We offer great working conditions, a supportive management structure, personal and professional development opportunities, Days and hours of work will be discussed during the interview process but may be tailored to suit individual situations.

If this sounds like you then please apply now including your CV and covering letter to our Store Manager dave.mackenzie@newworld-si.co.nz Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand to be considered

Closing date 18th November 2022

Successful applicants will be required to pass a pre-employment medical and drugs screen.

All enquiries’ will be treated confidentially.

To apply: Phone Carolyn on 027 209 6410

Or Post CV to: 192 Racecourse Road, Ashburton Or email to office@granthoodcontracting.co.nz

The Cancer Society Canterbury-West Coast are looking for a part-time Supportive Care CoOrdinator for the Ashburton centre.

If you value making connections, are empathetic, and love working in a small supportive team this could be the ideal role for you. Previous experience in healthcare or community support is advantageous.

For more information on this role, or, for a copy of the position description, please email people@cancercwc.org.nz or visit https://www.seek.co.nz/job/58876456 to apply directly.

WEEKEND SERVICES

IN EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY

PHONE 111.

DUTY DOCTORS

For all other medical assistance outside of normal hours please phone your general practice team, 24/7, to speak with a health professional who will give you free health advice on what to do or where to go if you need urgent care.

If you don’t have a regular general practice, call any GP team 24/7 for free telephone health advice.

Please bring your Community Services Card. All non-New Zealanders should bring their passport with them, New Zealanders should bring some form of ID.

Methven & Rakaia areas

For weekend and emergency

services please phone Methven Medical Centre on 302 8105 or Rakaia Medical Centre on 303 5002 for details on how to access the after-hours service each weekend.

Pharmacies

Wises Pharmacy, Countdown Complex, East Street, will be open from 9am - 1pm Saturday, from 10am1pm Sunday.

Ashburton Rest Homes Please contact directly for hours.

Emergency dentist

If you do not have or cannot contact your regular dentist, please phone 027 683 0679 for the name of the rostered weekend dentist in Christchurch. Hours 9am - 5pm, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.

Healthline is a free health advice service. It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The toll-free number to call is 0800 611 116.

Healthline is staffed by registered nurses who are trained to assess health problems and offer advice over the phone. The service is free and confidential.

Alcoholics Anonymous

Call 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) or visit www.aa.org.nz for more information.

Mental Health - Call free on 0800 222 955. Ask for the Crisis Team.

Safe Care - 24hr Rape and Sexual Assault Crisis Support. Phone 03 364 8791

Victims Support Group 24hr - Freephone 0800 VICTIM (0800 842 846). Direct dials to a volunteer.

Ashburton Office - 307 8409 week-days, 9am - 2pm, outside of these hours leave a message.

Alcohol Drug Help Line Call us free on (0800 787 797). Lines open 10am - 10pm seven days.

Art Gallery 327 West Street, Ashburton, phone 308 1133. Open daily: 10am – 4pm.

Ashburton Museum 327 West Street, Ashburton, phone 307 7890. Open daily: 10am – 4pm.

Ashburton Public Library Havelock Street. Ph 308 7192. Saturday: 10am - 1pm. Sunday: 1pm - 4pm.

EA Networks Centre - Pools

Family

Canterbury owned, locally operated Office and Chapel Corner East & Cox Streets, Ashburton Ph 307 7433 Patersons Funeral Services and Ashburton Crematorium Ltd

Email all notices (not just for deaths) to: deathnotices@ theguardian.co.nz Information required: Please provide your full name and phone contact

IN MEMORIAM

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

BISHOP, Barry James –Nicola, Sam and Victoria, Emma, William and Olivia, Phyllis, and Robert wish to sincerely thank all of those who supported us by sending cards, flowers, baking and donations to South Canterbury Cancer Society. Thank you also to those who attended the celebration of Barry’s life. Special thanks to South Canterbury Cancer Society, South Canterbury Hospice, Palliative Care Team, District Nurses and the Timaru Oncology Department for their support, help and kindness during Barry’s Journey. Please accept this as a Personal Acknowledgement from us all.

SARGENT, Timothy John –28.11.1957 – 10.08.2022

Ruth, Gerald, Derek, Jane and wider families wish to express their thanks for the love and support shown to them during the loss of Tim. Tim lived a wonderful life and is greatly missed. Please accept this as a personal acknowledgement of thanks.

WINTER, Nancy Gladys

MASTER MONUMENTAL MASON E.B. CARTER LTD For all your memorial requirements New headstones and designs Renovations, Additional inscriptions, Cleaning and Concrete work Carried out by qualified tradesmen. 620 East Street Ashburton Ph/Fax 308 5369 or 0274 357 974 ebcarter@xtra.co.nz NZMMMA Member FUNERALS WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008 Call me for all your real estate needs Mick Hydes 027 437 9696 mick.hydes@ mick.hydes@bayleys.co.nz Honest. Trustworthy. Local. WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008 Call me for all your real estate needs Mick Hydes 027 437 9696 mick.hydes@bayleys.co.nz Honest. Trustworthy. Local. WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008 Call me for all your real estate needs Mick Hydes 027 437 9696 mick.hydes@bayleys.co.nz Honest. Trustworthy. Local. FUNERALS 18-22 Moore Street, Ashburton 0800 263 6679 | 027 637 1229 www.memoryfunerals.nz PREARRANGE YOUR WISHES FOR PEACE OF MIND Jo Metcalf Guardian ASHBURTON Our news, online, all the time. Your opportunity to tell Mid Canterbury of your next event or meeting Daily Events is a FREE DAILY LISTING of MID CANTERBURY EVENTS to be held in the immediate future by non-commercial organisations. To arrange for events to be published in Daily Events, clip this form, fill in the applicable details and hand in to our LEVEL 3 office on Burnett Street or post to: Ashburton Guardian, P.O. Box 77, Ashburton 7740, 5 (five) working days prior to the first publication. CONDITIONS: 1. Telephoned information NOT accepted. 2. Forms MUST be signed by an authorised representative of the organisation concerned. 3. A separate form MUST be submitted for each future event and may be lodged with the Guardian as far in advance as desired. For example: A club which meets monthly may submit, say, 12 separate forms simultaneously – one pertaining to each meeting scheduled over the following 12 months. 4. The organisation acknowledges that no responsibility for errors or omissions will be accepted by the Guardian Company.

Pearl –Colleen, Glynis and families would like to thank relatives and friends for the cards, food, flowers and messages of sympathy on the sad loss of Nancy. Thanks to Terrace View for their care of Mum. Please accept this as a personal thank you from us all.

BEAMS, Colleen Lillian –On October 28, 2022. Peacefully at Rosebank Lifecare, Ashburton, aged 83 years. Dearly loved wife of Stan for 63 years. Much loved mother and mother-inlaw of Tom and Vanessa, Sharon and John Chambers (Darfield), the late Ruth and the late Alison. Treasured Grandma of Johnathon and Lena, Kenneth, Kirsten and Travis, and Joshua; Jamie, Stuart and Cindy, Graham and Nikita, and Melanie and Ben. Loved great-Grandma of Sophia, Thomas, and Hunter; Skyla, Izabella, Blair and Giulia. Messages to the Beams family, PO Box 472, Ashburton 7740. A service to remember Colleen will be held in Our Chapel, cnr East & Cox Streets, Ashburton on TUESDAY, November 1, commencing at 2pm, followed by private cremation at the Ashburton Crematorium.

VAN DE WIEL, Timothy Stuart Ronald –

On Tuesday, October 25, 2022, unexpectedly, at Christchurch, aged 38 years. Loved and adored son of Sue and Lindsay; loved and cherished father of Savannah; loved brother and brother-in-law of Tracy-Jane and Neil, Victoria and Dean, and families, and the late Sapphyre. Loved grandson of Meg and Wayne Fitzsimons and the late Ron Langdon. Beloved partner of Kylee. Messages to the van de Wiel family, C/- PO Box 10345, Christchurch 8145. A celebration of Timothy’s life will be held in the Ferry Park Chapel, 297 Ferry Road, on TUESDAY, November 1, 2022 at 1.30pm. Private cremation thereafter.

Saturday

Mountain weather hazard: Wind.

Rain about the divide, heavy at times. Cloudy with scattered rain elsewhere, with isolated heavy falls in the afternoon, clearing in the evening.

Wind at 1000m: NW rising to gale 80 km/h in the morning, easing to 40 km/h by evening.

Wind at 2000m: NW rising to severe gale 110 km/h in the morning, easing to gale 80 km/h by evening. Freezing level: 3000m, lowering to 2500m in the evening.

Sunday

Mountain weather hazards: Rain, Wind, Wind Chill.

Periods of rain about the main divide, possibly heavy, and the odd shower further east at times.

17.6 9.9 9.8 32.0 9.6 0.0 209.3

17.5 8.0 17.3 10.7 10.2 31.0 9.8 0.2 212.4

15.4 9.5 41.4 14.0 N 13 12:55pm Thu

NE 43 3:42pm

8:19am 8:47pm 1:59am 2:35pm

8:21am 8:47pm 2:00am 2:36pm

8:03am 8:31pm 1:43am 2:19pm

NE 44 3:50pm SUN PROTECTION ALERT Data provided by NIWA PROTECTION REQUIRED Even on cloudy days 9:40 4:45 ampm

9:22am 9:54pm 2:59am 3:38pm

9:17am 9:45pm 2:55am 3:34pm

9:06am 9:38pm 2:43am 3:22pm

6:17am 8:17pm 6:16am 8:18pm 6:14am 8:19pm

8:23am – 9:18am 12:58am 10:24am 2:02am