Ashburton Guardian, Thursday, September 8, 2022

One of the biggest drug busts in Ashburton has shaken up organised crime in the district. That’s the view of local Police senior sergeant Leigh Jenkins after his team and colleagues from Christchurch and Timaru,

an armed offenders’ squad, swooped

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Over 100 charges after raids

Ashburton’s top cop thinks that raids conducted this week will make a “huge dent” in Ashburton’s organised crime syndicate.

Police executed numerous search warrants as part of Operation Cobalt across Ashburton this week. Operation Cobalt is a nationwide crackdown on illegal gang activity and is targeted at disrupting gangs.

“This should send a message that if you are involved in criminal activity in Ashburton, we will hold you to account,” Ashburton senior sergeant Leigh Jenkins said.

Jenkins said the search warrants have resulted in more than 100 charges and the seizure of a number of firearms.

Jenkins said the operation was a result of the community and Police recognising an issue that needed addressing, and the results are hugely significant. He added that those arrested face a range of charges, mainly for supplying methamphetamine.

“The harm these individuals peddle comes at huge cost to individuals and families in our community, not to mention the

other offending – such as burglary – associated with drug harm.”

Police from Ashburton, Christchurch, and Timaru including public safety teams, armed offenders’ squad, dog units, and the specialist search group were in-

volved in the operation this week.

ACT Party leader David Seymour who was visiting Ashburton on the first day of the operation said communities, such as Mid Canterbury, have lost their innocence when police have to swoop

on Ashburton and execute search warrants across town as part of a pre-planned operation.

Jenkins wanted to remind the community that police rely on the community’s support to help police clamp down on this of-

fending.

“If you notice any suspicious behaviour, please let us know. Your information could be the piece of the puzzle we need to help bring offenders before the courts.”

Market Day approved pending paperwork

apply conditions on the market day to protect the recent multi-million dollar investment in the CBD.

Johns was pleased with the decision and said “you can be sure I will be working with council to ensure a great day”.

Monday, Johns said.

“It’s one day, it’s all I’m asking for.”

Objecting retailers said it’s another day of impacted trading after a tough two-year stretch.

The Ashburton Market Day will go ahead on September 26, if it can supply the adequate documentation in time.

Market organsier Carol Johns has been given until September 16 to submit a traffic management plan, health and safety, and insurance documentation or risk the requested road closure for the event being withdrawn.

The council also resolved to

A hearing was required for the event after objections to the proposed road closure of East Street.

Johns, who is standing for a seat on the council in the upcoming elections, said she already has 120 stallholders and more than half of those were locals.

The event could draw up to 10,000 people to the town on what would ordinarily be a quiet

Three years ago, Bob McDonald had fronted the council to campaign for Boulevard Day to go ahead on East Street, but in a contradiction he was representing CBD businesses calling for the replica event to go somewhere else.

He said he would cop that criticism but “things had changed”.

The CBD upgrade has introduced a one-way system along Burnett and Tancred streets so closing off East Street closes the

whole CBD, he said.

It was why Boulevard Day, which is not going ahead for a third straight year, had been planned to relocate to the Ashburton Domain.

“We’ve moved on. Times have changed,” Macdonald said suggesting there were better alternatives to East Street.

Plan B was to hold the market day in the West Street carpark, but being a work day and the annual Bookarama also being on it was ruled out.

The council voted to approve the road closure of East Street, as well as Tancred and Burnett streets, on the proviso the adequate documentation was pro-

vided in time.

In their support of the closure, councillors Rodger Letham and Dianne Rawlinson both criticised the objectors’ arguments as being “light”.

Councillors Leen Braam, John Falloon, and Stuart Wilson opposed the closure.

Police execute a search warrant in Fairton as part of large scale operation this week where numerous other warrants were executed resulting in over 100 charges across Ashburton.

PHOTO SUPPLIED

Daniel Alvey

“Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air”

Jonathan Leask

More closures for Walnut Ave

Daniel Alvey

Road closures will return as contractors complete the final push on the Walnut Ave/West and East intersections to get the lights on for Christmas.

Among the proposed traffic plan is a seven week closure of Walnut Avenue between East and West Streets starting on Monday, September 26.

The closures will be in place so that extensive work can be done to bring the rail corridor in line with the traffic lights.

Waka Kotahi provided a list of items that will be completed in this phase:

Clearing the site of all the existing rail infrastructure, including existing rail signals and rail tracks.

Installing new underground services including new drainage. Installing the new rail crossing, including laying the new pre-cast concrete slabs that will carry the track across Walnut Avenue. Constructing the new piece of road that ties into the level crossing. Installing new rail signal warning lights and new street lighting

in and around the level crossing.

Installing new pedestrian refuge areas (where pedestrians can safely wait while trains pass).

Finishing footpaths and land-

scaping. Installing new fencing to make the rail corridor safe. Applying the final road markings at the level crossing and at the two road intersections where Walnut

Avenue crosses East and West streets. Testing and inspecting the co-ordination of the rail and road crossing signals to tie in with the level rail crossing.

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For those who want to cross the intersection they will either have to travel down to Havelock Street or up to Bremners Road, an extra 1.8km on the school drop-off.

For pedestrians the path will be slightly easier with a controlled crossing operating during weekdays between 8am and 5pm, approximately 200m north of the current crossing.

However outside of those hours pedestrians will have to make the long trek down to the rail crossing bridge, an extra 1.5km, with no shorter alternative available.

To prevent people from taking the shortcut fencing will be surrounding the site.

At this stage the plan is a proposal with confirmation to arrive in the next 10 days.

Labour’s gang turnaround ‘far too late’

since their time in office.

“They started thinking gangs are our friends and there’s no crime that can’t be stopped by kindness,” he said. “Today they use the phrase Tough On Crime.”

Outspoken ACT leader David Seymour says gangs in New Zealand franchise faster than Subway.

Seymour, in Ashburton on Tuesday night, is hugely critical of the speed the government has taken to respond to gang violence in New Zealand.

Seymour said ACT introduced a bill to increase police powers to seize assets 12 months ago “but Labour voted it down. Now they’ve introduced their own bill this month, similar to ours,” he said.

Seymour argues Labour has had “a long, slow awakening”

ACT welcomes Labour’s turnaround, but Seymour believes it’s far too late.

“How many people have been victims of gangs while the government has slumbered?” he asked.

“No-one’s seen their legislation because they have yet to define what a gang associate means. Until then violent drug dealing will remain profitable and, as long as gang activity is profitable, kids will join.”

Seymour also wants New Zealanders to be free from wearing masks.

“There’s no logic in continuing to wear them. They might keep you safe in a women’s fashion

shop, but then you can catch it in a café,” he said.

Seymour argues none of the government’s current restrictions are “making a jot of difference, but they send the world a message that New Zealand is backward and closed”.

At his Ashburton meeting on Tuesday night Seymour expressed opposition to the government’s centralising policy.

“We’re totally opposed to what the government is doing. They’ve centralised polytechnics, the DHBs and now Three Waters,” he said.

“If the decision is made in Auckland, good luck to Christchurch, but don’t bother if you’re in Ashburton.”

Seymour said democracy is driven by numbers and, with centralisation, the communities with the biggest population win.

Malcolm Hopwood

ACT leader, David Seymour, with list MP, Toni Severin, addressed an Ashburton audience this week.

Contractors were on site this week as work is about to get under way on the final stages of the Walnut Avenue intersection upgrade.

PHOTO DANIEL ALVEY

Dreaded cones return

Business operators along Tancred Street thought they were having a bad dream when they came into work to find the dreaded road cones and barriers had returned with no notice.

Contractors were undertaking repair work to some of the concrete paving along the street which had cracked.

Indian restaurant Taj Spice, manager Sudip Shah said he lost half his business last week with some customers not even aware they were in fact open.

“People see the cones and don’t even bother coming down the street.

“With all the white tarping around the fences you can’t see us.”

Shah received no warning of the impending works this time round and wasn’t even sure what they were fixing.

The council could not confirm whether the contractor doing the work had notified affected businesses as the contractor responsible was unavailable.

“We do our best to ensure businesses directly impacted by work, even minor repairs, are kept informed,” Ashburton

District Council services group manager Neil McCann said.

Shah’s business was heavily affected when the council undertook the upgrades last year which turned the CBD into a construction site for nine months.

“Through those months nobody came down here, and we probably lost 70 per cent of our business, and we almost had to close,” Shah said.

Further along the road at Stir-

ling Sports manager Leah Webb was also surprised to see the works getting under way.

Webb said the construction had affected sales with fewer people coming through the door with parking limited.

“Our customers found it hard to find parking with some of the street closed off and contractor vehicles filling half the remaining parks.”

Both managers also said that those who did come through

the door were tracking the concrete dust and dirt inside.

“We’ve had to clean our floors more often this week with all the dust,” Webb said.

McCann said there are still a few jobs to be completed which include the replacement of some trees, the installation of a few signs and some paving to finish off.

McCann added that any repair work being done was at the contractor’s expense.

McAnulty acknowledges road funding ‘hasn’t been good enough’

second urban bridge.

“The proposal is pretty strong, said McAnulty, who knows the district well as his parents lived in Fairton for eight years.

M. bovis rears its ugly head yet again

New Associate Minister of Local Government Kieran McAnulty admits we’re now “seeing the impacts’’ of roading funding cuts in Mid Canterbury.

The Wairarapa-based McAnulty, who also has emergency management, racing and transport in his ministerial and associate minister portfolio, let his roading feelings known while in Mid Canterbury on Tuesday.

He knew roading was a hot topic, as it was in any other region, but especially in Ashburton and wider Canterbury.

“It’s an issue facing many rural councils in that they have a large geographical area, a lot of roads and a small population from which to fund it,” said McAnulty, who is completing a tour of all of the 55

rural and provincial councils.

Ashburton became stop number 41 for the Labour MP.

He had closed-door discussions with the Ashburton District Council in which he said they covered a lot of issues from emergency management, the future of local government, three waters, roading and transport, and the

proposed second bridge.

But roading maintenance and funding was top of mind, with McAnulty admitting councils had been left in the lurch from a period of underfunding and it wasn’t good enough.

He was also pleased to see that progress was being made with Ashburton’s proposed

“We know that from a resilience point of view, the recent weather event put that at the forefront of everybody’s mind.”

He was also aware of Environment Canterbury’s plea for $150m of Government funding over the next 10 years for nationwide flood protection funding. While that wasn’t something that has come across his desk, it is linked to work he has in progress.

“There is a need for a consideration around longer-term funding of flood protection,’’ he said.

A farm in the Ashburton district has been identified as having M. bovis via routine testing, bringing the total number of infected farms in the region to three.

The Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) eradication programme was carrying out cattle movement tracing and genomic analysis as was standard practice when a property was confirmed infected, and was working closely with the farmer.

Investigations on this property were “in the early stages,” MPI said, and genomic analyses, as well as cattle movement tracing, was under way to help understand the infection source.

Nick Giera, Federated Farmers dairy representative for Mid Canterbury said the disease was still at a very low level and there might well be an underlying level of infection that existed for a number of years.

“It might spike up every now and again depending on the weather. For instance, at the moment, the cows are under stress with calving and coming out of winter. It’s likely that if there is any underlying infection it will pop up now.

“I don’t think this is the start of a trend,” Giera said.

“I can see this scenario going on for a few years – I think the disease will have a long tail before we eradicate it completely. I think MPI probably understands this and it’s part of the plan for eradication.”

MPI said it wouldn’t be surprising to find more infected farms at this stage in the eradication effort.

“In fact, we can expect to find more as we continue on this journey,” it said.

Farmers could take heart that, while MPI might find further infection, it was undertaking a significant amount of surveillance, which showed the disease was not widespread.

“The number of infected farms has tailed off over the past 18 months.

With high levels of background and network surveillance being undertaken and very few new active confirmed properties we can be optimistic that good progress has been made towards eradication, and that we are at the ‘tail end’ of the disease outbreak.”

MPI urged farmers to carry out general biosecurity measures at calving to help protect against diseases.

As the weather warmed up, older calves were ready to go outside the shed and the twice-daily milking schedule was cut down to once a day.

This was a stressful time when M. bovis bacteria might be shed.

Moved on from bullying allegations

Kieran McAnulty says he’s moved on from the bullying allegations involving now exiled Labour Party MP Gaurav Sharma.

Sharma was reported nationally of accusing McAnulty for “systematic bullying . . . to overburden me and ruin my reputation”.

McAnulty has vehemently denied the bullying claims against him, which ended with Sharma being expelled from the Labour Party and now sitting as an independent MP.

McNulty, who was cleared of any wrongdoing, was then a Labour Party whip, who essentially act as party disciplinarians in Parliament. They make sure MPs are in the House to speak and vote when needed and allocate leave.

of something that isn’t true and having that play out in public,” McNulty said on an Ashburton stop-over

“It’s never nice being accused

He said he had moved on from the incident and was focused on “working as hard as I can while I have the job”.

It was also a time when calves often got mixed with other cattle, perhaps being sold on or new calves coming onto the farm. This meant a high-risk of infection.

Upset business: Taj Spice manager Sudip Shah lost half his business due to works on Tancred Street which he had not been given notice of. PHOTO DANIEL ALVEY

Daniel Alvey

Jonathan Leask

“Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air”

Associate Minister of Local Government, MP Kieran McAnulty (fourth from left) met with Ashburton District councillors Lynette Lovett, Rodger Letham, mayor Neil Brown, Stuart Wilson, and Angus McKay this week.

Keeping up to date with your vaccinations is really important, even if you’ve already had COVID-19.

You can catch COVID-19 more than once. Boosters help protect you from getting very sick from COVID-19, ending up in hospital, and even death.

Keeping up to date with your vaccinations is one of the most important things you can do to help protect yourself, your whānau and your community.

A booster will provide extra protection from a previous vaccination and help your immunity be stronger and last longer. And, by staying as healthy as you can, you help reduce pressure on our communities, businesses and the health sector.

If you’ve had COVID-19, you can get your booster three months after you tested positive. Make sure you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations.

Check your eligibility at Covid19.govt.nz or call 0800 28 29 26.

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Keep Learning grows online hub

Ashburton’s Keep Learning website has received a boost.

The website, established 12 months ago by Keep Learning co-ordinator, Kate White, has received $8000 from Advance Ashburton.

White, who established the website – www.KeepLearningMC.NZ – to showcase its 40 community education events, has now extended it to list any event in Mid Canterbury involving some kind of learning.

“We’ve established the website to create opportunities for learning,” she said. “It’s become an online hub for all events that occur in the district.”

So far more than 20 community groups, businesses and health providers have listed their event with Keep Learning, which is part of the Connecting Mid Canterbury Charitable Trust.

They range from tree pruning and cooking classes to Senior Net, parenting programmes, art classes and the astronomy club.

“I want it to be known as the place people go to if they want to find out what’s on,” White said.

“The more people list their event, the better it is for our community.”

The Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand recommends learning as one of five ways to wellbeing and White is keen to take that message around the district.

“The Advance Ashburton – Ian

Glassey funding will enable me to spread the word and advertise the website,” she said.

MEET THE CANDIDATES

“I can get out and make more connections.”

Last year Keep Learning re-

ceived $5000 from Mid and South Canterbury Community Trust for the website.

On your marks, get set, talk

SHORT SHARP&

Stabbing arrest

A man has been arrested in relation to a violent assault in central Ashburton last month. A 34-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday morning and charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and assault with a weapon.

Police were called to Burnett Street about 2.50am on Saturday, August 20 where a man had su ered a severe wound to the back of his neck. The 34-year-old was due to appear in the Ashburton District Court on Wednesday.

Mayoral, Ashburton District Council and ECan candidates will have two minutes to express themselves at a Meet The Candidates meeting on Sunday.

There’s a lot people can say in 120 seconds, says chairperson of Ashburton Citizens’ Association (ACA), Greer Ricketts.

With 17 candidates invited, Ricketts has limited each candidate to two minutes to enable everyone to have their say, however there’ll be questions from the audience following individual presentations.

ACA, together with the Ashburton Guardian, is organising the Meet the Candidates meeting at the Ashburton Event Centre at 2pm on Sunday, and said Ashburton people “deserve the right to be informed about who they’ve voting for”.

“This is their opportunity to listen and ask questions,” Ricketts said. “There are new faces in the line-up with viewpoints that haven’t been expressed until now.”

Ashburton Guardian managing editor, Daryl Holden, who will chair the meeting, said it’s “a chance for the public to find out about candidates and not just make a decision on the basis of a poster or electioneering pamphlets.”

The Citizens Association was established earlier this century as a bridge be-

tween the community and council and Ricketts said they’re the ideal people to organise such a forum.

“We don’t have a political stance. We just want the best people elected,” she said.

The association currently has about 15 active members who are available to act or advocate on behalf of any resident who needs advice or support on council issues.

“Anyone can join and come to our monthly meetings,” Ricketts said.

The association is also active in making submissions to the district council. In re-

cent months it has asked the council to request National Roads Board funding to repair potholes in Ashburton and around New Zealand.

It’s made a submission in support of a kerbside food waste collection service and is currently preparing a submission about the Ashburton Airport Development Plan.

ACA wants Ashburton airport to develop a long term plan to focus on future needs such as further expansion and the possibility of landing heavier planes.

“We see Meet the Candidates as an important role for us,” Ricketts said.

Public concert

Classical crossover singer, Rebecca Nelson, will present a public concert at the Sinclair Centre this Saturday. The concert for Nelson, who has sung our national anthem, both in New Zealand and overseas, is organised by the Ashburton Musical Club. In information provided the date given was Sunday, September 19, which is incorrect. Nelson’s concert will be held on September 10 at 7.30pm.

Multicultural fun day

The Mid Canterbury Timebank and the Mid Canterbury Newcomers’ Network have teamed up and have organised a multicultural fun day at Hakatere Marae this Saturday for the community. The event will be on from 2pm to 5pm, and is open to anyone who wants to come along. According to Mid Canterbury Newcomers’ Network co-ordinator, Mercedes Walkham there will be di erent games and activities from around the world such as Mexican Loteria. “It’s like bingo,” Walkham said. There will be an opportunity for locals to also learn how to make poi or how to weave flax into almost anything. The event is free, but Walkham asks that people coming along bring a dish to share for afternoon tea.

White points out if people click on to an event they’ll be retained in the system and kept informed.

Kate White displays the Connecting Mid Canterbury annual report which features the Keep Learning website. The report was presented to its AGM this week.

Malcolm Hopwood

Malcolm Hopwood

Ashburton Citizens’ Association, Greer Ricketts (left), will welcome Sunday’s audience and introduce the candidates and the forum’s host, Daryl Holden (right).

COUNCIL BRIEF

NW wastewater extension under way

Work begins this week on a ninemonth project to expand Ashburton’s wastewater pipe network into the north-west part of town.

The $3.285m project involves laying 2km of pipes and building a pump station that will pump wastewater to Middle Road, where it will enter the town’s existing wastewater system.

New pipes will run along Carters Road, Farm Road and Allens Road, and the pump station will be built on Allens Road, near Mill Creek.

Infrastructure Services Group Manager Neil McCann said the contract for the work had been awarded to Tru-Line Civil, who were ready to start work this week.

“Public traffic through Allens Road between Turton Street and Racecourse Road will be affected at times and traffic controls will be in place, however residents will always have access during the course of the work. Our contractors will keep residents updated as the project moves through five different stages.”

The stages of work will require traffic management on the following roads:

• Allens Road, between Turton Street and Racecourse Road – 7 September to 11 October

• Carters Road, between Allens Road and Farm Road – 12 October to 8 December

• Farm Road, between Carters Road and Racecourse Road – 9 December to 17 January 2023

• Farm Road, between Carters Road and Middle Road – 18 January 2023 to 1 March 2023

• Allens Road, between Carters Road and Middle Road – 2 March 2023 to 29 May 2023

Full road closures will be required at times because of the depth of the new wastewater line (up to 4.2m) and the size of the line (up to 300mm in diameter).

Mr McCann said the roads may be closed temporarily to all vehicles and pedestrians, except residents.

“This has to be done to protect the crews working on those deep trenches and also to protect the general public and vehicles.

Residents on the closed sections will be contacted directly by the contractor prior to works beginning and they will be kept up to date about restricted access by the crews on site.

“We will be doing our best to ensure people are not unduly inconvenienced. We know there are also many people in the wider community who use this area for recreation so we are asking them to also

be prepared for disruption to their usual routines.”

The new wastewater line will enable more residential development in the area, which is mostly zoned Residential C.

Mr McCann said there were currently about 50 properties in the area that would be serviced by the new network, but over the next 10 years another thousand new sections could be created.

“The new pipes will also allow some people to decommission their septic tanks.”

Anyone wanting to be kept informed of updates on the project should sign up for free notifications at ashburtondc.govt.nz/ ashburton-district/projects.

Council’s website will also carry regular updates about the project.

Leanne Macdonald - Group Manager Business Support

From Central Otago to Ashburton

Council has recently welcomed Leanne Macdonald as the new Group Manager of Business Support, which includes the finance, information systems, communications and Council property teams:

I’m really pleased to be living here in Ashburton and getting to know my new community. Since arriving a few weeks ago, I’ve been focused on meeting my teams and learning about some of the key pieces of work that will fall under my scope over the next few years.

The Business Support group is wideranging, with people responsible for communications, finance, Council property, information systems and legal counsel.

And three big things that I can already see on the list of upcoming work are funding for the proposed second bridge, the move to the new library and civic building and the 2024-34 Long Term Plan, planning for which has already started.

I feel very proud to be working for the Council and pleased to have the opportunity to lead the group - there is much to learn and I am enjoying getting stuck in.

My husband has also secured a job in Ashburton, and we have bought a house and already feel quite settled. Our two fur-babies have joined a doggy day-care, so the entire family has settled in well to this very warm and welcoming community.

I am chartered accountant by trade

and have a history of local government that started with the Palmerston North airport, before I moved to a regional council and then onto district councils. For me the district councils are very special as we (the staff) are very much part of and within the community, supporting our community.

While I initially hailed from the North Island, I am very much a South Island girl at heart. I have spent the past three years with the Central Otago District Council, looking after similar corporate services (excluding property) and really enjoyed the role, and the district, especially the lakes, the rocks and the trails.

That being said, we love the diversity of the scenery here in Ashburton from the rolling green pasture through to the

Playground poplars to be removed

Access to the Ashburton Domain children’s playground and nearby carpark will be restricted next week when arborists take down two poplar trees.

The trees are scheduled to be removed on Thursday 15 September and Friday 16 September and the area will then be replanted and extra picnic tables installed.

The poplars are between the playground and the access road, and the area will be closed to cars while the arborists work.

The operating area will be roped off and under supervision, but walkers can still access all other parts of the domain and car parking is available on Walnut Avenue.

Community Services Group Manager Steve Fabish said poplars were known to cause problems when they reached old age.

“While these two trees are still relatively young, long term they really are the wrong tree in the wrong place. Removing them now will make way for us to plant trees that are better for shade.

“It also provides an opportunity to make that side of the playground more connected and accessible to the whole site, as noted in a recent report.”

beautiful snow-covered alps, and of course the beautiful Mt Hutt.

My husband and I are really looking forward to exploring the Ashburton District and the wider region on our gravel bikes, and simply enjoying the countryside with our two dogs and generally getting to know what Ashburton has to offer.

So if you see me out and about please feel free to say hello. I love meeting new people, especially in the community that I am here to support.

Above: The first phase of work will be on Allens Road, between Turton Street and Racecourse Road.

Local election voting packs arriving soon PUBLIC NOTICES

It’s just over a week until voting packs for the local elections start arriving in mailboxes around the Ashburton District.

Aside from the mayoral race, nine councillors will be elected to represent three wards, as well as five Methven Community Board Members and six Braided Rivers Community Trust members.

Ashburton District Council Chief Executive Hamish Riach said people looking for more information about the candidates have several options.

“There will be information about candidates in the voting packs, but voters can also go to our voteashburton. nz website now and browse through the candidate profiles to easily see who is standing in their ward.”

The profiles include contact details for the candidates as well.

Mr Riach said there were several meet the candidates events being organised and he encouraged voters to go along and do their due diligence before ticking the box on their voting papers.

The first event is on this Sunday at the Ashburton Event Centre, at 2pm, and people can find more details on the main page of voteashburton.nz. An event has also been organised at the Mt Hutt Memorial Hall in Methven on 13 September, at 7pm.

For those wishing to dig in a bit deeper,

Policy.nz (hosted by The Spinoff) has given all candidates standing in local elections the chance to share their thoughts on various areas of policy. Not all candidates have contributed, but for those who have, it’s a good way to see what they think about topics such as rates, our local economy and climate change.

Mr Riach said it was also timely for council this week to thank three long-serving members of the Methven Community Board for their contributions over many years.

Dan McLaughlin, Sonia McAlpine and Ron Smith attended their last community board meeting on Monday – the three are

not seeking re-election.

Mr McLaughlin was elected in 2010 and has been chair since 2016, Mrs McAlpine was elected in 2013 and has been deputy since 2016 and Mr Smith was completing his second term after being elected in 2016.

“Their contribution to the board and the Methven community is greatly appreciated. They have been great ambassadors for Methven,” Mr Riach said.

Voting in all the local elections starts on 16 September and closes at noon on Saturday 8 October. Find out more at voteashburton.nz

Park 'n' bark: Check out our new car park

People exercising their pooches at the Ashburton Dog Park can now use the new 20-space car park at the facility, with access off Cass Street next to the new Kmart development.

A sloping path leads from the carpark to the entrance to the dog park, which has separate areas for small and all dogs. The entrance also has plastic poo bags and a water foundation for both dogs and humans.

Community Services Group Manager Steve Fabish said there was still work to do on the new dog park entrance but people

Hear about our Māori history

Join us at the Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum next Wednesday (14 September) at 6pm during Te Wiki o te Reo Māori for a special event from the Tāngata Ngāi Tahu authors and researchers. The team will be presenting the lives and contributions of various Ngāi Tahu people associated with the Hakatere Ashburton District.

The connected Kā Huru Manu exhibition, which provides an insight into the Ngāi Tahu history of our district, runs until 18 September.

COUNCIL OFFICE

5 Baring Square West

Mon, Tue, Wed & Fri 8.30am - 5pm

Thursday 9am - 5pm

PROPOSED ROAD CLOSURE: RAKAIA SCHOOL 150TH JUBILEE

Ashburton District Council gives public notice of a proposal to temporarily close roads to ordinary vehicle traffic to enable the holding of a community event –Rakaia School 150th Jubilee.

Roads proposed to be closed:

• MACKIE STREET, from Elizabeth Avenue to Dunford Street

• DUNFORD STREET, from Cridland Street to Mackie Street

Period of closure: From 10am until 11.30am on SATURDAY, 22 October 2022.

Any person objecting to the proposal should lodge notice of their objection and the grounds for their objection in writing by post or email (info@adc. govt.nz) to the Council, 5 Baring Square West, Ashburton by 4pm on FRIDAY, 16 September 2022.

NEIL McCANN Group Manager Infrastructure Services

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

UPCOMING MEETINGS

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

Council Agencies (six-month reports) - Wednesday 14 September, 9.30am (live-streamed)

could begin using the car park.

“Staff will be installing rubbish bins and there’s also agility equipment to put in, as well as a shingle path and more plants. We’ll be planting extra trees inside the exercise areas for shade.”

The dog park has had a big makeover, following the floods of May 2021 when it was mostly under water after the Ashburton River burst its bank, taking out fences and depositing shingle and debris around the park.

It has been rebuilt 50 per cent bigger, with new fences, new dog play equipment and

a new entrance off Cass Street.

“As well as undertaking the repair work, we have removed trees, recontoured the bank to make it easier to mow and maintain, and increased the overall area by quite a lot. It’s getting great use and we’ve had lots of positive feedback,” Mr Fabish said.

“The new car park has room for 20 vehicles and lighting, and we encourage people use this space rather than the old car park at the end of William Street.”

The dog park is a designated area where people can exercise their dogs off the leash.

Draft Stormwater Bylaw

Our stormwater network does the essential job of collecting and carrying rainwater away from buildings and roads. We’ve drafted a new bylaw to manage our stormwater infrastructure and help protect both the environment and public health. We’d like your feedback!

Visit ashburton.govt.nz/haveyoursay or scan the QR code to view the consultation documents and share your feedback by 5pm, Sunday 18 September 2022.

ASHBURTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

180 Havelock Street, Ashburton 7700

Mon - Fri 9.00am - 8.00pm

Sat 10am - 1pm | Sun 1pm - 4pm

EA NETWORKS CENTRE

20 River Terrace

Mon - Fri 6am-9pm (pools 7pm, gym 8pm)

Sat & Sun 7am-7pm (pools 5pm, gym 6pm)

Council Hearings (Ashburton Airport Development Plan)Wednesday 14 September, 1.00pm (live-streamed)

Council Meeting - Wednesday 21 September, 1.00pm (live-streamed)

Council Activity BriefingsWednesday 28 September, 9.30am

Audit & Risk CommitteeWednesday 28 September, 1.30pm (live-streamed)

Council Hearings (Stormwater Bylaw) - Thursday 29 September, 9.00am (live-streamed)

DON'T GO STRAPLESS!

Remember to put your windstrap on whenever you put your wheelie bins out, no matter the weather! The strap helps keep lids shut on windy days, and when bins are blown or knocked over. They’re specially designed to be undone as the bin is picked up and emptied.

Haven't got a windstrap? Go to our website ashburtondc.govt.nz/services/ rubbish-and-recycling and request one.

327 West Street

10am - 4pm daily

ASHBURTON ART GALLERY & ASHBURTON MUSEUM

Above: Retiring members of the Methven Community Board (from left) Dan McLaughlin, Sonia McAlpine and Ron Smith.

We want to hear from YOU!

RantorRave

CONTACTS

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Missed paper

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MEDIA COUNCIL

This newspaper is subject to the New Zealand Media Coun cil.

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LETTERS

We welcome your letters and emails, but:

■ No more than 100 words.

■ We reserve the right to edit or not publish.

A return to smiles instead of masks?

To mask, or not to mask; that is the question.

A government announce ment, expected next week, is predicted to see New Zealand move from the current traffic light settings of orange, which will bring with it a relaxation on the requirement to wear masks around the country.

Yet in some corners, it feels like we’re already there. And have been for quite some time.

Whereas months ago, it was almost sacrilege to leave the house without a mask in the pocket, ready to be used wherever required, fewer and fewer Kiwis are ensuring it’s a part of their everyday attire.

I’d like to think I’ve been pretty good with the use of a mask. There’s generally always one in the pocket ready to be used if needed should I head into a business that requires their use.

But on Sunday, I stepped to the other side. I ignored the restrictions, albeit unintentionally at the start. At a busy Christchurch retail outlet, I walked in and began perusing only to come to the realisation that I hadn’t brought a mask with me.

As I turned to return to my car to retrieve one, I noticed the lack of masks being worn in the facility. Within my eye-line at that very moment I counted 46 people. Only 12 were wearing masks.

So, I didn’t return to my car. I just carried on. Not once was I asked to put one on. Not once

was I looked at with a sideways glance, not once did I feel bad or ashamed for not wearing what is technically required.

In short, I was a bad Kiwi. But I didn’t feel like one.

“

and even those I don’t usually, but the weekend’s revelation has certainly changed my thinking on whether or not we should continue with their use.

Some say we do need them

Within my eye-line at that very moment I counted 46 people. Only 12 were wearing masks.

A recent internal survey by Retail NZ revealed that more than two-thirds of customers were coming into stores without masks. So, I wasn’t so much a bad Kiwi, but more a part of a bad Kiwi statistic.

I’ll still carry a mask with me, when I remember, and I’ll still abide by the rules set out by businesses that I like to support

still. And there’s plenty to back that up. Others, however, feel we don’t, and you can understand why.

So, perhaps personal choice is the best way forward. If you feel safer wearing a mask as you go about life, then do so. If you’d rather not, then don’t.

On a recent trip to England, the requirement was to wear a

mask for the entirety of the 36 hours of travel to get there. But from the moment after stepping off the plane at Heathrow Airport to the moment stepping back on the plane to come home two weeks later, not once did I have to wear a mask.

That was eye-opening, but also a really nice experience to have too.

New Zealand has constantly been a little behind the Covid game compared to other parts of the world and the removal of masks next week, should we shift in the traffic light settings to a more relaxed way of life would be the natural next step.

But even without that announcement, it looks destined to keep heading that way anyway as more and more Kiwis choose to remove their masks and show their smiles to the world once again.

Matt Markham

PlayPlanner

whatson@theguardian.co.nz

Every day

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

Ashburton Aviation Musuem 1-3pm, Ashburton Airport, Seafield Road.

Weekdays

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

Ashburton Aviation Museum 1-3pm. Ashburton Airport, Seafield Road.

Mondays

Age Concern Ashburton Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at 10am.

Ashburton Community Walking Group Mondays and Fridays at 10.30am. Walnut Avenue Pavilion.

Mid Canterbury Linedancers Weekly beginner class 1pm-2pm, Easy intermediate & intermediate 2pm-4.30pm at the Tinwald Memorial Hall. Instructor Annette Fyfe.

MSA Dance Section

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

Tuesdays

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

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

• Held at Methven All Saints Anglican Church Chapman St at 10.30am.

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

• Hampstead Hakatere Church Rooms, Oxford St at 1.30pm.

MSA Tai Chi Classes at 10.30am. Cost $3 per session at the MSA on Havelock Street.

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

Ashburton MSA Petanque Club Competition and social play, all welcome from 1pm at 115 Racecourse Road.

RSA Indoor Bowls

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

Pickleball Ashburton EA Networks Centre from 5-7pm. Paddles are provided.

MSA indoor bowls

At MSA 7pm start. New members welcome

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

Wednesdays

Ashburton Strollers Club Meeting at courthouse 8.30am.

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

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

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

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

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

• Held at Ashburton Buffalo Lodge Rooms, Cox St at 10.30am.

• Held at Ashburton Buffalo Lodge Rooms, Cox St at 1.30pm.

What’s on Where

Do you have an event for Play Planner? Email us with all the details to whatson@theguardian.co.nz.

• Held at Staveley Community Hall at 2pm.

Pickleball Ashburton

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

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

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

Hip Hop for Seniors 10am-11am at the Ashburton Seniors Centre, 206 Cameron Street, Ashburton, $5.

Waireka Croquet Club Euchre, 1.30pm, Philip Street, Ashburton.

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

MSA Tai Chi

Class is at 10.30am. Cost $3 per session at the MSA on Havelock Street.

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

Device Drop-In Sessions

Free Device Help Sessions at the Ashburton Public Library every Wednesday between 2pm and 4pm.

Art Addicts

Art Addicts (AA) is the Ashburton Art Gallery’s weekly art space for kids. Donations appreciated. 3 - 4.30pm.

Mid Canterbury Linedancers

Weekly beginner class 6.30pm-7.30pm, easy intermediate & intermediate 7.30pm-9pm at the Tinwald Memorial Hall.

Ashburton Silver Band Practice at the Bandrooms, Cameron Street, 7.30-9.30pm.

Thursdays

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

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

Park Street Line Dancers 9.30am - 11am at St Stephen’s Parish Centre.

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

MSA Tai Chi

Classes at 10.30am. Cost $3 per session at the MSA on Havelock Street.

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

• Tinwald Holy Spirit Church, Thomson Street at 11am.

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

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

Waireka Croquet Club Mahjong, 1pm, club rooms, Phillip Street.

Ashburton MSA Petanque Club

From 1.30pm at 115 Racecourse Road.

Fridays

Age Concern Senior Social Group (50+). Speaker, quiz, morning tea, exercises. All welcome. Friday’s, 10am.

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

St Stephen’s Anglican Church Seniors Coffee Club, 2nd and 4th of the month at 10.30am, St Stephen’s Parish Centre, Park St. Ashburton Justice of the Peace JP available for all signing services from 12-2pm. No appointment necessary. No fee. Community House. 44 Cass Street.

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

Saturdays

Ashburton’s Winter Market North end of West Street carpark, from 9am.

Ashburton MSA Petanque Club

Social play from 1.30pm at 115 Racecourse Road, Ashburton

Ashburton Aviation Museum Ashburton Airport from 10am - 3pm.

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

Seventh-Day Adventist Church

• 10am, Weekly worship & Bible Study.

• 11am, Sabbath singing & Sermon.

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

Vintage Car Club

86 Maronan Road, Tinwald

The Museum and Parts Shed will be OPEN on Saturdays during the month of September, Time: 10.00am to 12 noon.

Sundays

Ashburton Strollers Club Meeting at courthouse 8.30am.

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

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

St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church 10am Morning Worship.

Service led by Rev. Eric Mattock. All welcome. Sinclair Centre, Park Street.

Grace Presbyterian Church 10am at 63 Princes Street.

Hakatere Presbyterian Parish Morning Worship at 10am, Rev. Johanna Warren.

• 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month at 65 Oxford Street

• 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month at 127 Thomson Street Tinwald Pickleball Ashburton Sunday is organised competition day at EA Networks Stadium from 3-5pm. Prior registration through our facebook page is required. Some courts are available for social play.

Every Monday and Saturday

Allenton Assn Croquet Club

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

Every Tuesday and Friday

Methven Museum

60 Main St. Open Tuesday and Friday 2-4pm Does Dalgetys or Wright, Stephenson & Co or Pyne Gould Guinness ring a bell? Our current display is Farm Supplier Stores of Methven & districts (history since the early 1900s). Come in and learn how the stores evolved and fill out your name if you worked at any of them. Admission is free but donations are welcome

Every Thursday and Saturday

Ashburton Toy Library

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

Every Wednesday, Saturday

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

Last Sunday of every month

Nor’Westers Muso’s Club

All are welcome, as is any style of music. 2pm - 6pm at Feeneys Lounge, Devon Tavern.

First Sunday of every month

Methven Market

At Methven Resort, from 9am to 1pm.

Third Monday of every month

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

Second Fri of every month

In Colour, art and craft club

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

Second and fourth Friday of every month

St Stephen’s Anglican Church Seniors Coffee Club 10.30am on Park Street.

Monthly

Ashburton Embroiderers’ Guild

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

September events

St David’s Union Church

Thursday September 8, 10.00am. St David’s Union Church. Fit Kidz for pre-schoolers and caregivers. 48 Allens Road.

Friday September 9, 6.00am. St David’s Union Church. Women’s Circuit Training. 48 Allens Road.

Sunday September 11, 9.30am. St David’s Union Churc. Spring Flower Service led by Rev Henry Mbambo. 48 Allens Road.

Monday September 12, 6.00am. St David’s Union Church. Women’s Circuit Training. 48 Allens Road.

Tuesday September 13, 9.30am. St David’s Union Church. Walking Group meets outside church. 48 Allens Road.

Wednesday September 14, 6.00am. St David’s Union Church. Women’s Circuit Training. 48 Allens Road.

Wednesday September 14, 9.30am. St David’s Union Church. Steady As You Go Exercise Group. 48 Allens Road.

WednesdaySeptember 14, 5.30pm. St David’s Union Church. Youth Group. 48 Allens Road. Thursday September 15, 10.00am. St David’s Union Church. Fit Kidz for pre-schoolers and caregivers. 48 Allens Road.

Friday September 16, 6.00am. St David’s Union Church. Women’s Circuit Training. 48 Allens Road.

Handbags & Gladrags 2022 September 23, 7pm, at the MSA. Mystery handbag auction, silent auction, raffles, music by Luke Glendining. Tickets $30pp (tables of 6) includes glass of bubbles and anti-pasto platter. Tickets from Safer Mid Canterbury, 44 Cass Street, annaarrowsmith@hotmail.co.nz Proceeds to local White Ribbon & CanBead.

Creative Fibre

Monday September 19, 9.30am; Venue Plains Museum. Contact Bev Bennett 308-4262. Ashburton Travel Club

Wednesday September 21, 7.30pm. Meeting – Speaker Janet Fisher, Germany. St David’s Church, Allens Road.

Weaving Group

September 17, 10am-2pm, Upstairs, Ashfords.

Waireka Croquet Club

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

October events

Ashburton Travel Club

Wednesday October 19, 7.30pm. Meeting; speaker Alison Shearer. St David’s Church, Allens Road.

Please note:

Send all details to whatson@ theguardian.co.nz

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

5. Who won the best narrator award at the Emmy awards this week?

a) David Attenborough

Barrack Obama

Stephan Fry

6. This weekend will mark the last V8 Supercars race held at the Pukekohe track before it closes in April, when did it first open?

a. 1976

1989

1963

There’s a lot of talk about elections at the moment, how many councils are there across NZ?

65

78

73

How does a flamingo eat?

a) It has to eat with its head upside down

Through its nose

Through its beak the right way up

Out enjoying the sunshine

The flavours of ginger, garlic and chilli

zing to

Serves 4

dish.

¼ C coconut cream

2 C water

1 t fish sauce

lemon juice

vegetable stock cube

curry powder

1 T chopped fresh ginger

2 cloves garlic, crushed

1 head broccoli, sliced into florets

500g fish fillets, sliced into pieces

2 spring onions, finely sliced

1 chilli, finely sliced (optional) for garnish

■ Place coconut cream, water, fish sauce, lemon juice, stock cube, curry powder, ginger and garlic into a large saucepan and bring to the boil.

■ Reduce heat to a simmer, add broccoli then cover with diced fish and spring onions.

■ Place lid on the saucepan and cook slowly for approximately 10 minutes or until the fish and broccoli are cooked through.

■ Garnish with chilli if using.

■ Serve with crusty bread rolls or with cooked rice.

■ Recipe courtesy of vegetables.co.nz

The sun was out and so was Lyra Martin, 4, enjoying the spring sunshine at the Ashburton Domain playground.

PHOTO JONATHAN LEASK

Stria cladding is an ultra-sleek cladding option that plays with definitive lines and shadows to instantly transform home designs into an extension of your own personal style.

This cladding and concrete block are the cornerstone of this impressive new build.

Everything is of high specification and the setting is second to none.

Main living is expansive and is open to the dining and internal kitchen with walk-in pantry.

Two bedrooms are off this space including the master with extensive wardrobes – walk-in and separate – and a spacious ensuite with bath, shower, vanity and toilet.

The remaining bedroom is tucked away adjacent to the inviting entry.

An internal bathroom services the home with shower, vanity and toilet. Both showers are fully tiled.

A large laundry with great joinery is separate and has access to the service area. The attached double garage is carpeted and incorporates block and varnished plywood lining.

Heating is undertile in the bathrooms and a ducted heat pump system.

The landscaping, much of it private from the roadside, involves great decking areas that flow seamlessly from the living and master bedroom areas.

The outlook from the rear of the home is something that has to be viewed.

Deadline

Open

11am - 11.30am

Brand new and yours

Central Living and Spacious

So close to town

Separate toilet , laundry and full bathroom facilities. Internal access single garage.

Comfortable, affordable and central

Enjoy the convenience of this centrally located townhouse in the popular Cox Street Mews. Walking distance to the supermarket or town central. Well sited to capture plenty of sun, the spacious living area opens out to a conservatory and also has street views. Two double bedrooms with wardrobes along with tidy kitchen, bathroom and separate laundry.

close

Top quality - as new

Open Home

Views to nature

Ashburton 3 Kermode Street Open Home

Hampstead

Netherby 40 Geoff Geering Drive

Ashburton 49 Hakatere Drive

Ashburton 22 Hakatere Drive

NEW

HOME

Perfect Choice

1/51 Peter Street, ALLENTON

Don't delay viewing this gorgeous property in a superb location.

Solid brick and low maintenance home with open plan living area, two double bedrooms, both with built-in wardrobes, double car garage with storage room and laundry with easy access to the back gardens and clothesline.

A sun-drenched property with easy care gardens and no lawns to mow.

Does it sound like your ideal property you have been looking for?

HOME

This one will tick all your boxes. Townhouses like this one including a double garage are always sought after. Call today to arrange your appointment.

212

Deadline Sale: Closing 4pm September 28 (unless sold prior) Web ID AUE3416972

View: Saturday, 9.30am - 10am

NEW LISTING/OPEN HOME

All About Location

6 Filey Place, ALLENTON

Do not delay in viewing this beautiful four bedroom family property, located in a very quiet cul-de-sac in the heart of Allenton.

The open plan kitchen, dining and living room as well as the separate lounge provides space for the whole family.

Enjoy the sun that streams into these living spaces.

The master bedroom has an en suite and walkin robe and doors that open out to the garden.

The other three bedrooms are all doubles and are serviced by a family bathroom and separate toilet.

Ample storage throughout the home and a separate laundry.

Two heat pumps and a 'heat pad' in the living room for comfortable living.

There are two outdoor patio areas along with a gorgeous garden. This property will not be on the market long!

224

Offers Over: $725,000 Web ID AUW3389393

View: Saturday, 10.45am - 11.15am

Grand Opportunity

Offers over:

View: Saturday, 11.30am -

Offers Over: $675,000 Web ID AUW3376570

Spectacular

137 Walnut Avenue, ALLENTON

This permanent material home is situated on a large tidy section of 814 square metres. It will appeal to many, whether it be a first home, a renovation project or an investment with subdivision potential. Conveniently located directly across the road from the Ashburton Domain and close to restaurants, shops, Ashburton Intermediate School and Ashburton College.

Solid Brick Home 112

Single car garaging, carport and plenty of off-street parking. Don't delay and come and have a look for yourself, this opportunity could be yours!

There are two bedrooms with room for a third. Spacious kitchen with adjoining dining and a separate lounge heated by a lovely big log fire.

OPEN HOME

Offers over: $435,000 Web ID AUW3409411

View: Saturday, 12.15pm - 12.45pm

OPEN HOME

21 River Terrace, ASHBURTON

Solid brick four bedroom home is ready and waiting for someone to come along and make it their own. Featuring a roomy living area with polished wooden floors, heated by a heat pump and a nightstore. The bedrooms have plenty of space with built-in wardrobes. Main bathroom has a shower and toilet plus a separate shower room. A single garage with internal access and good off-street parking. Handy Location and Available Now

Offers over: $415,000 Web ID AUW3378030

View: Saturday, 10am - 10.30am

Come Take A Look!

Offers Over: $675,000 Web ID AUW3374655 View: Saturday, 10am - 10.30am

To

Price: $450,000 plus GST Web ID ACS3401118

53 Robinson Street, ASHBURTON

One of the last remaining undeveloped sites in the Riverside Industrial Estate. Central location close to the town centre, will suit a variety of business uses. Fully fenced 2100m2 site providing street frontage of approx. 30 metres.

Three-bay pole shed with concrete floor, one bay lock-up with staffroom and toilet amenities. Could supplement the use of the site prior to future development. Some casual lease/tenancy income provides an offset to holding cost.

Riverside Industrial Estate

9 Catherwood Avenue, ALLENTON

Step inside this gorgeous architecturally designed home positioned on a double section in two titles amongst a beautiful established garden and situated in a prime location. Five bedrooms, two living areas, three counting the beautiful light filled atrium plus a separate office. Ample storage and triple car garaging. Some remedial work will be required to this property which will provide an excellent opportunity for the astute buyer.

19A Baker Street, ALLENTON

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

Brand New and Coming Soon

60 Cross Street, ALLENTON Enough room for everyone and a fabulous location. Modern kitchen with a new plumbed in fridge. Great family size lounge with log burner. Three double bedrooms, master bedroom has en suite. An office currently being used as a single bedroom, two bathrooms, three toilets and a rumpus room as an extra living area. This family home has an inground swimming pool with barbecue area. Single car garage.

OPEN HOME

24 Nixon Street, TINWALD

This weatherboard home is situated on the west side of Tinwald. It has an open plan kitchen, dining, lounge heated with a heat pump. Updated bathroom, two double bedrooms with built-in wardrobes plus a sunroom. Separate laundry and toilet, single lock-up garage and off-street parking.

24A Nixon Street, TINWALD

Situated on a private back section, perfect for an investment, first home buyers or people wanting to downsize. Two double bedrooms, built-in wardrobes, open plan living with breakfast bar and floor mounted heat pump. Spacious bathroom, separate laundry. Ranchsliders onto a sunny deck, off-street parking.

22 Millichamp Street, TINWALD Large four bedroom family home, open plan living area with bi-fold doors opening to a family size deck. Separate lounge with heat pump, includes a TV unit and book shelf. Kitchen area designed to entertain includes a wine fridge and mounted TV, walk-in pantry, gas hob and double oven Three heat pumps plus solar panels for hot water. A must view.

ID AUT3356786

62 Lake Hood Drive, HUNTINGDON Are you looking for a lifestyle property for your family? This 9,480m2 property offers space inside and out with a four-bay shed with power, two bays enclosed, ample room to use as a workshop and storage and several paddocks. The home offers open living, large log burner or heat pump, separate lounge and family size deck. Four bedrooms, all with built-in wardrobes, master with en suite. Double car garage with laundry area.

Snaparazzi

Spring was welcomed in on the weekend to blue skies across the region. Guardian photographer Daniel Alvey was out and about capturing some of the action.

Got an event happening? Invite us along: editorial@theguardian.co.nz

Ashburton Golf Club

We had some massive games last Satur day, all grades in the Champs are wide open as we head into Semi-final Saturday.

In the men’s Senior grade, last year’s inter mediate champ Blair Snowball is turning heads and will certainly fancy his chances when he takes on top seed Jeff Hewitt. Jeff is a previous champ and will certain ly not be taking Blair lightly, should be a great game. In the other game, last year’s finalist Hoppy is taking on second seed Dave Morrison. Hoppy put Dave out last year, so the young fella will be out for re demption, another cracker is in store.

The Intermediate semis will have two dif ferent games; young gun Matt Tait was spanking his driver last week and Paddy found his big stick’s “on button” as well, so these two will try to shorten the course and beat each other into submission. On the other side of the draw two straight and steady swingers Greig Sparrow and Chris Lovelock will duke it out. Two very intrigu ing games, anyones to call.

In Junior A we have a young semi and a not so young semi. Mitchell Leath and Mitchell Lye will battle on one side, a cou ple of young prodigies out of the Matt Davis training school. I reckon Mitch will win that one. Then he will either face the Old Dutchman Gaby or the ancient Kevin Smith. These two have had different routes to the semi, Gaby has been to the 18th twice whereas, you might as well say that Kevin has had two byes and not broke a sweat yet. Which is the best prepara tion? We will see on Saturday.

As of writing, I only know the Silver grade semi-finalists in the Ladies draw, from what I can see, in the first semi we have a repeat of last year’s final with Sharon Bradford taking on Jen Sheppard and across the draw Vicki Moore will line up against Pauline Bell. Four great golfers, all of them will fancy their chances. Good luck to everyone playing.

On the dark side of the course, we will have a gaggle of golfers playing in the Plate semi-finals. Seniors sees Lefty taking on Steve Richards and Terry playing Davo.

Intermediates has the Stoddart twins looking for a final together as Ryan faces Arkright and Mitch takes on Ron Carlson.

Junior A finds Chris Robertson and Terry Molloy battling alongside Karl Snowball and Rob Coyle, then finally in Junior B, Brian Fauth will play Henry Lawrence and Matt Harvey will face Buffalo Bill Hetrick.

I have not heard a lot from pennants semi-finals, so I don’t think it can have gone very well for the Ashburton teams. Oh well, next year is our year, just like the Warriors!

Quick story from last Wednesday, two great friends playing in the combined stableford comp. Richie Mc and Old Spud a pairing as strong as Laurel and Hardy. One of these fine golfers shot a 74 off the stick for 43 points, but still had to buy the losing beers as the other fine golfer shot around 100 for 20 points. Oh dear, the joys of combined stableford!

That will do, see you around the course. Good golfing.

Ashburton MSA Petanque Club

The second round of the Interclub was played on Tuesday, where the Christchurch Club was the victor, and our club fourth.

The next one is at Papanui, again being hosted by Christchurch as their Club area has started its rebuild.

On Wednesday a van load of us travelled to Oamaru to compete in the Drawn Tri ples. It was a fun day and great to play with other people, representing Dunedin area, Ashburton and the host area. Over half of our participants took home a prize of some sort, with Shelagh Field’s team third in the Championship, Nicky Foden’s team won the Special Plate with Joan Hea ley’s team runner-up, Ellen Pithie’s team were 2nd in the Bowl, while Jonathon Crum and Linda Millard’s teams were 1st and 2nd in the Saucer. Half of the pistes were on a slope which proved challenging, interesting and fun. We are keen to go back for this day next year.

The Club pointing competition is being held this coming Sunday which helps im prove our skills.

The last Interclub is being hosted by us in the last week of this month, and apart from a few away tournaments, things are quietening down for the last quarter of the year locally.

Remember we play Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday meeting about 1pm to be play ing shortly after at 115 Racecourse Road.

Equipment and tuition are available.

Wakanui Women’s Institute

The August meeting of the Wakanui W.I. was held at the home of Isabell Page. Jenette Storrier presided over the meet ing. Aspirations were recited by members.

“Motto” Nothing is particularly hard if you divide it into small jobs.

Members were thanked for helping with the delivery of Meals on Wheels and also helpers that had served morning tea on Cup Day. Roll Call: Baking for 206, mem bers were thanked for their generous do nations of baking. Display: Item of your Mothers/Grandmothers - interesting items were brought along ranging from beau tiful rings and jewellery to a well-used treasured icing sugar/flour sifter. Report - Cup Day was a very successful day. Entries from all the WIs were of a very high standard. Wakanui won the Rugby Cup. Half Yearly Meeting will be held at the Wakanui Hall on Friday September 23. Wakanui members to cater for the lunch. Bay and Tray at the A & P Show was dis cussed. The Mini Flower Show will be held on Wednesday September 28 in the Wakanui Hall. In 2023 Wakanui W.I. will celebrate their 90th Birthday, a small com mittee was formed to arrange the celebra tions. Guest Speaker: Jan McClelland was introduced to the meeting and members thoroughly enjoyed her very informative talk on the various aspects that Aged Con cern offers to Seniors in our district. Jan was thanked and presented with a gift. Afternoon tea was served, bringing an en

Foulden Maar, Middlemarch, is a small fos sil site of international importance, formed by a volcanic eruption 23 million years ago. The crater lake, 120 acres wide and 70ft deep, has extraordinary fossils of plants, fishes, spiders and insects. First recognised (F W Hutton) in 1875, R Speight said “…this deposit will rank as one of the most impor tant in the world” (ODT 1910). 2009 drilling discovered organic sediments (shale oil, diatomites).

The raised rim ensured a closed anoxic sys tem, preserving soft parts of tissues, with a 120,000yr record of layers. It was then 8° warmer, with surrounding forest vege tation, e.g., Nothofagus, dropping leaves. These show serrations and veins, similar to today. Ferns and flax are recognisa ble. Earliest NZ recorded fossils include cordyline; supplejack; flowers (Foulderia staminosa); 10 orchids and ferns. Diversi ty includes 6 families of beetles; Diptera (flies, midges, crane flies); Hemiptera (true bugs, scale insects); ants, wasps and bees; coprolites and feathers. An astounding larger fossil Galaxiidae (whitebait) was found, the oldest in the world. This taon ga must be preserved – currently under threat from inexplicable mining ambitions, with no protective legislation.

September 27: Dr Annika Sepola “Rela tionship of Space Aurora and Earth’s Cli mate “.

In Junior B Top seed Nathan Stephens will battle Matt Fallaver and Ian Snowball will lock horns with George Brown.

joyable afternoon to a close.

U3A Ashburton Geology Series 3: Daphne Lee “Foulden Maar Site”

RightonTrack

Mid Canterbury’s horse and dog racing action

Magic Monday on the way

It’s their biggest day of harness racing for years – and the Ash burton Trotting Club is confi dent its Labour weekend meet ing on October 24 will live up to its billing as “Magic Monday”.

“We came up with the slogan because it’s shaping up as such a huge day,” says club president Peter Larkin, “we want it to be a magic day on the course, and also for the big crowd we hope

will be part of the action.”

“The fact that the meeting’s on a public holiday too ... it’s set to be Ashburton’s biggest day since the Jewels.”

Mid Canterbury last host ed the Harness Jewels in 2017 when nine Group 1s were held.

“The committee’s super ex cited to have eight top class rac es and we are confident Magic Monday will stack up with the

best race meetings of the year,” says Larkin. “With Cup week just around the corner we are expecting a lot of the country’s top pacers and trotters will be here.”

Highlighting the action will be Group 2 Ashburton Flying Stakes, a race won in the last decade by the likes of Self As sured, Lazarus and Terror To Love.

NZ Metro harness Tomorrow at Addington Raceway

2 45516 Blithe Sarah O’Reilly

3 31x Bennie And The Jets R D Close

4 68706 Bourbon On The Rocks J P Versteeg

5 9586x Sonoma Tyron G D O’Reilly 6 100q0 It’s So Easy P J Davis

7 66600 Instant Delight R J Butt

8 2586 Miss Yo B N Orange

9 4x242 Magnifique Dimanche K M Cox

There will also be two Group 3s for the trotters – the $30,000 Hambletonian and the Ashbur ton Flying Sprint.

In all over $260,000 of total stakes money will be on offer.

“Ashburton has seen a num ber of New Zealand records over the years and with the right conditions I’m sure we will see some really fast and competi tive racing,” says Larkin.

R9 GARRARDS MOBILE PACE $15,000 1980m 20:30

1 1212x Bollinger 2 31142 Evangalist 3 70x31 Deceptive Lee 4 77x21 Whiskey Cavalier K G Cameron 5 2445x Franco Mac 6 181x1 Franco Norton Craig D Thornley 7 23311 Soundsofcash J R Dunn 8 x5170

1980m 21:27

2121x

Inta B N Orange

Majestic Man Brad Williamson

Enghien R T May

Mountain Ben Hope

Dash M J Williamson

J R Dunn

Tana G D O’Reilly

Bonavena Mark Purdon

TROT $13,000

Ford

R7 IRT. YOUR HORSE. OUR PASSION. 2YO MOBILE

PACE $13,000 1980m 19:37

1 Dance With The Boss Z E Butcher 2 2 Mckendrick

3 Warrior Chief 4 0x6 Smoke On The Water R D Close 5 4 Who’s Delight 6 211 Alta Meteor T M Williams 7 5x11 Charlie Brown Korbyn Newman

R8 AVON CITY FORD (NEW BRIGHTON) CUP (Gr3)

$30,000 2600m 20:05

1 57x88 Classie Brigade B N Orange 2 7x0x6 Johnny Mac S J Ottley 3 56x65 Steel The Show R J Butt 4 115x1 Heza Spor t C J DeFilippi 5 22227 Heisenberg 6 11154 Smiffy’s Terror J R Dunn 7 1426x Alta Wiseguy T M Williams 8 253x1 B D Joe B D Butcher 9 215x3 Laver G D O’Reilly 10 531x2 The Falcon Sarah O’Reilly

Wingatui gallops

at

Raceway

Christchurch dogs

1 53132 Jazelle Z E Butcher 2 10485 Kowhai Shadow G Thornley 3 51608 Artatac S J Ottley 4 15x56 Jimmy Arma J R Dunn 5 44766 Kruizr J F Cur tin 6 4x625 Azor Ahai B N Orange 7 63941 Sweet Belle Sarah O’Reilly 8 116x1 Sporty Charlie C J DeFilippi 9 2121x Here’s Herbie R J Butt

Matt Markham’s Addington Selections

Race 1: More Gooda, Beach Party, Tact Teel, Vincent Vega

Race 2: Raupunga Lad, Bri Express, Hail Lucius, Bubba Scrub Race 3: Aardiebythehill, Resolve, Fighting Fire, The Bloss Race 4: True Fantasy, Aardie’s Express, Chambray, A Bettor You

Race 5: Muscle Mountain, Midnight Dash, Oscar Bonavena, Mataderos

Race 6: It’s So Easy, Bennie And The Jets, Miss Yo, Magni fique Dimanche

Race 7: Alta Meteor, Charlie Brown, McKendrick, Who’s Delight

Race 8: The Falcon, Laver, Alta Wiseguy, BD Joe

Race 9: Republican Party, Bollinger, Franco Mac, Franco Norton

Race 10: Angel Of Montana, Katherine, Judgement Bay, Smokin Annie

Race 11: Sporty Charlie, Azor Ahai, Here’s Herbie, Jimmy Arma

BEST BET: Sporty Charlie (Race 11)

VALUE: It’s So Easy (Race 6)

1)

‘Celebs’ to take on Canterbury Wheelies

Canterbury Wheelies basketball team, look out – there’s a group of locals ready to try and beat you at your own sport.

Their chances of success? Seemingly very little. But it won’t stop them from trying.

The annual Canterbury Wheelies v Ash burton Celebs wheelchair basketball match is back on the calendar again, after being rescheduled from an earlier date this year.

Traditionally, the annual event is held as part of Mid Canterbury’s Wheels Week celebrations, but due to illness and the ev er-lurking presence of Covid, a decision was made to push the event back a few months.

And it’s landed on Saturday, September 24, where ten local identities will take to the court in an attempt to try and usurp the best wheelchair basketball players in Can terbury.

Previous years have suggested it’s a futile attempt, but the fun and laughter of it all makes the expected thrashing a lot more enjoyable.

Event organiser, Pauline Paterson, said the afternoon was about experiencing the talent of the Canterbury Wheelies team

as they went about their business on the court.

“The highlight of the day is to admire the skills of the Wheelies – and the local celebs, as they show their natural talent,” she said.

“It’s a fun game to for all to enjoy.”

The match doubles as a fundraiser for the Canterbury side to help them with their basketball endeavours around the country and internationally.

This year’s match will begin at 3pm, with locals urged to get behind the event with a gold coin donation asked for on arrival to help raise funds for the Canterbury Wheel ies.

The 2022 Ashburton Celebs Side:

Neil Brown (Ashburton Mayor)

Leen Braam (Ashburton councillor)

Rob Reid (Braided Rivers Community Trust CEO)

Julie McGrath (Basketball Mid Canterbury)

Shona McGrath (Basketball Mid Canterbury)

Michael Calvert (Paterson’s Funeral Services)

Phill Hooper (Hokonui Radio)

Steve Devereux (Ashburton Guardian)

Matt Markham (Ashburton Guardian)

One more TBC.

Strong representation on the greens

Matt Markham

There’s a strong Mid Canterbury pres ence across the board in the first Aoran gi Golf representative sides named for the spring events this week.

The governing organisation of golf across the southern parts of the Can terbury Plains have named four sides for the annual match-up against neigh bours Canterbury, which will be held next weekend at the Ashburton Golf Club.

It’s the start of a busy few months of golf for Aorangi players, with plenty on the horizon to look forward to.

After the Canterbury match is done and dusted, the women’s sides will then look towards the Golf New Zealand Women’s Interprovincial in Bay Of Plen ty in early December, while the men have the South Island Interprovincial in Hororata in late October, the Men’s Masters South Island Interprovincial in

Motueka and the New Zealand Men’s Interprovincial in Bay Of Plenty in De cember.

The age group teams will also head to ward the Junior Interprovincial in Cam bridge in early October.

Of the 28 players named this week across four different sides, 13 players hail from the Mid Canterbury region.

The men’s senior team includes Dave Morrison, Josh Smith and Kris O’Neil of the Ashburton Golf Club and also Dave King from Tinwald, while the Women’s side features Jennifer Shepherd, Pauline Bell and Sharon Bradford from Ashbur ton.

The Men’s Masters team is predom inantly Mid Canterbury, with seven of the eight players locals.

Tinwald is represented by Andrew Peck, Gordy Kenton, John Smitheram and Nigel Heney, with Ashburton play ers Hamish Niles and Jeff Hewitt also in the mix.

The Aorangi Junior Boys’ team all hail from South Canterbury.

Matches in the Canterbury fixture will begin at 8am next Sunday, September 18.

Locals set to play big role

the finish, he’s just that type of horse.”

It’s a much tougher task for La ver tonight with the inclusion of powerhouse racing outfit Stone wall Stud’s two open class stars, BD Joe and Alta Wiseguy.

Mid Canterbury locals may have a little bit to say in the two har ness racing features on offer at Addington tomorrow night, if everything goes to plan.

While no locally prepared horses contest either the New Brighton Cup or the Ordeal Trot ting Cup, there’s good driving representation from local play ers in both races with now Ash burton-based horseman, Gerard O’Reilly having a drive in both of the group races.

He continues his association with rugged pacer, Laver, in the pacing feature – the New Bright on Cup – as they build towards the New Zealand Trotting Cup in November.

A brave third fresh up a fort night ago, O’Reilly was stoked with his performance.

“He couldn’t have gone much better,” he said after the run.

“You know he’s that sort of horse who is just going to keep going, you just about feel sorry

for him in some way.

“But he looked beat when the others got past him halfway up the straight, but he actually was charging at them again at

The former was an excellent winner fresh up last week, while the latter looked right on song with a big trial win eight days ago at Rangiora, beating up and coming sensation, Akuta.

But O’Reilly won’t have to look too far for further opposition either with Laver’s stablemate, The Falcon, actually beating him home behind race winner Heza Sport in the Maurice Holmes Vase a fortnight ago.

And he’s got extra reason to keep an eye out for him, with daughter, Sarah handling the driving duties.

A newcomer to the open class scene, he too showed he’s going to be a horse to be reckoned with this season with his excellent fresh up run, and if the pair get into the race at the right time

then they’re both going to be right in the finish.

O’Reilly will also feature in the Ordeal Trotting Cup with the Paul Nairn-trained Matua Tana.

An enigmatic trotter, but one with plenty of ability, if caught in the right mood he’s good enough to give them at least a fright.

Fellow local Ricky May will also take part in the race and drive former age group champion, Enghien.

The Greg and Nina Hopetrained multiple Group One winner is on the comeback trail from injury, and has continued to improve with racing, but will need to again tonight with sta blemate and potential super star, Muscle Mountain returning to the mix for the Group Three event.

The two features form part of a bumper card of harness racing which features many horses who are set to play a major role in the upcoming group races over the early spring and into the sum mer.

Gerard O’Reilly will get back behind New Zealand Trotting Cup hopeful, Laver, tomorrow night at Addington.

Ashburton Mayor, Neil Brown will again lead this year’s Ashburton Celebs wheelchair basketball side when they take on the Canterbury Wheelies later this month.

13 local golfers have been named in Aorangi golf teams for the annual clash against Canter bury which will be held in Ashburton next weekend.

PHOTO SUPPLIED

Matt Markham

Colts get to finish season on a high

that not only did the Colts get to finish their sea son at home in front of family and friends, but a number of other players also managed some time on the paddock to remain on top of their game for future matches.

While the focus on the rugby weekend was firm ly on whether or not Mid Canterbury could get their Heartland Championship campaign mov ing, a host of other representative rugby fixtures also highlighted the weekend’s play.

A short but sharp campaign for the Mid Can terbury Colts side was completed, but not quite in the manner which most expected at the start of the week. The side was set down to take on the North Canterbury Colts, but with their opposi tion unable to field a team it looked as though their campaign was going to finish prematurely.

Some last-minute scrambling from the Mid Canterbury Rugby Union ensured that didn’t happen though, as they wrangled together a team made up of players from the Mid Canter bury Heartland Squad and also members of the Mid Canterbury Development team.

In a double-edged sword scenario, it meant

Playing against a strong wind proved difficult for both sides, but it was the Colts who absorbed all the energy in the first 40 minutes, before turn ing it around with the wind at their back in the second to grab a 38-10 win to finish their season.

The Mid Canterbury Under 19 side were also in action for their first hit-out of the season as well, but fell to a very good North Canterbury side who came from behind to beat them 22-15 with a strong second half performance.

The Mid Canterbury Under 16 side had their second preseason fixture for the year against Ellesmere as they prepare for the annual Under 16 tournament which begins this weekend.

Down by seven with 20 minutes left on the clock, the Mid Canterbury lads got right into their work and scored 17 unanswered points in the final quarter to register a strong win 27-17.

The Mid Canterbury Under 14.5 team has also been named, and will take part in their repre sentative tournament this weekend in Methven.

Lydia continues rise up umpire’s ranks

Christchurch. It’s the third highest level an umpire can achieve in New Zealand Netball circles and Wilson is the first Mid Canterbury based umpire in a long time to achieve the feat.

2022 continues to be kind to local netball umpire, Lydia Wilson.

A frequent figure on the side of the court throughout the local net ball season, Wilson has also been plying her trade in Christchurch on the weekends, umpiring to a high level in the Christchurch Netball Centre competition on Saturdays.

Her work ethic and continued development saw her selected as one of the umpires for the recent Netball New Zealand Under 18 championships in Christchurch, where she officiated a number of matches during the week.

That run of success contin ued late last month when she gained her New Zealand Quali fying Umpire Award – C Badge at

In order to get there, she first had to achieve her centre award then her zone award with all levels requiring a large level of dedica tion, further training and develop ment.

The 20-year-old first picked up a whistle at the age of 11 and hasn’t looked back but earlier this year upon her selection for the Under 18 National Championships said she’d had a lot of help along the way.

“I think Mum signed me up for an umpiring course, and it’s been all go, pretty much since,” she said.

“I’ve been very lucky along the way, there’s a lot of support here for umpiring and some amazing peo ple to watch and learn off, so I’ve definitely had a lot of help.”

Chapell Hadlee series provides welcome return to cricket-watching

don’t get to watch cricket live any more, were able to do so.

I think of people like my grandfather, a cricketing tragic who could absorb day after day of a test match without fear of getting bored.

Like so many Kiwi sporting fans, the idea of sitting down to watch a game of cricket is appealing.

But for so many, for the last few years at least, it’s been a bit of a moot point following the decision from NZ Cricket to shift their broadcasting rights to streaming service, Spark Sport.

It’s been a decision fraught with problems from almost day one.

Go back to the Rugby World Cup issues, and then the same through the countless other sporting events that have demanded a heavy watching load, and it’s been frustrating.

I didn’t believe in the decision when it was made, and perhaps even just through pure stubborn ness and objection I’ve refused

to subscribe to the new service.

So, Tuesday afternoon and evening were a real treat.

The Black Caps playing Australia, live on my television screen. Bliss.

The predictable Australian bias from the commentators aside, it was great to watch our national

side in action and be able to do so without fear of the coverage dropping out, fading or lagging, with Sky Sport and their partners putting forward a quality production.

But what’s most exciting about that is that almost an entire generation that for the most part

A great analyst of the game, who takes great joy in sitting back and watching New Zealand play.

He got to experience it again this week, and will for the remainder of this series, and I’m sure there’s thousands of others out there who will be doing the same.

At my age, the idea of streaming a sporting match isn’t an unknown.

But for so many, people like my grandfather, it’s an anxious prospect given the advancement of technology.

Sure, Tuesday night’s match didn’t go how we would have wanted it too.

We had Australia on the ropes but were unable to really hammer home that advantage.

But what it did show is that the remaining matches in the series are set to be further great matches of cricket.

And, for a rare occasion, the majority of New Zealand sporting fans will actually be able tune in and watch and enjoy it.

A moment to cherish, for sure.

Your thoughts?

Are you a Spark Sport subscriber? Or do you still hold a subscription to Sky Sport?

How do you feel the Spark Sport service has performed, and has it changed the way you watch live sport completely?

Email your thoughts through to editorial@theguardian.

Local netball umpire, Lydia Wilson

PHOTO DANIEL ALVEY 030922-DA-1

Matt Markham

Matt Markham

Matt Markham

The Mid Canterbury Colts were able to finish their season at home on the weekend after their rivals North Canterbury were un able to field a team. Instead they took on a Mid Canterbury Invita tional XV and were victorious.

PHOTO GRAHAM’S PHOTOS

Cryptic

Tell the authorities where purchase may be made (4)

An expert unit right at the foot of it (4)

It may corrupt one to march off in line (6)

Elf loses heart, and dial will wipe it out (6)

Half a prefix may be wholly occupied (4)

Get ragged at the edges in a brawl (4)

Drop the pilot – using this seat? (7)

Payment exacted for the nice things one says about a person (7)

King born a woman bent it in servility (4)

Willing to hang it, if one likes it high (4)

What’s afoot in slalom starts slipping keep inside (3)

Scottish refusal to nominate Monsieur – he’s gone (3)

He takes professional service for a coin when about fifty-one (6)

What’s said of Peter

Ray

Simon Shuker’s Code-Cracker

Your Stars

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): Like an expert salesperson, you’ll focus on your hot-prospects list and save time and energy by prioritising your most likely customers. One thoughtful move will make money for you.

TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): The theme centres on the Latin prefix “re,” meaning “back” or “again.” Prepare for reunions, renovations, remixes and remodels. All things old will be new again.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 21): The question of standards will come up. You’ll set the bar. Look around; do your research; understand the full range of what’s possible, especially on the lower side.

CANCER (Jun 22-Jul 22): Though you can’t change history, you can change which parts of it you focus on, the way you tell it, and what it means to you. Today gives you an interesting excuse to reflect.

LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): “Whoever obeys the gods, to him they particularly listen,” stated the Greek classic “The Iliad.” You’ll notice the same power dynamic on a smaller scale as favouritism will be shown by the powerful to the attentive.

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): Those who appreciate gifts are given more of them. The opposite is also true. You’ll wisely temper your reaction to receive less of something you don’t want.

LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 23): You’ll experience the need for harmony and beauty in your environment. This is typical for you, but it’s stronger and more urgent than usual today, likely causing you to purge the old and bring in the new.

SCORPIO (Oct 24-Nov 21): You’ll understand a situation that baffles the others. Explaining it is the hard part. Consider skipping that and just acting on your knowledge. They’ll catch up later.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): The special fondness between you and your people gets the spotlight as you laugh and share stories, many retold for the 100th time. This is how a legacy gets cemented.

WordBuilder

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): To show up and handle responsibilities is the very least you’re willing to do for your loved ones. You’re proactive, thinking about the future and driving the action according to your vision.

I T L U ?E L P

E D AK

WordBuilder

AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): Your knowledge of the grind gives you a deep appreciation for the instances in which you are paid to do something you love. Such an exchange will happen today and is deserving of celebration!

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

R E D

AK

Good 8 Very Good 12 Excellent 14

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

PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): Your diligence comes from strength, but if you appear to be working harder than anyone else, it will instead be interpreted as weakness. Delegate to take the pressure off, be cool, relaxed and in control.

Previous cryptic solution

buyers

Good 8 VeryGood 12 Excellent 14

Previous solution: ads, art, arts, ats, dart, darts, drat, rad, rads, rat, rats, sad, sard, sat, star, tad, tads, tar, tars, trad, tsar

Previous solution: ads, art, arts, ats, dart, darts, drat, rad, rads, rat, rats, sad, sard, sat, star, tad, tads, tar, tars, trad, tsar

Previous quick solution

Ray

ashburton.nz@raywhite.com

Tancred Street, Ashburton 7700

www.otago.ac.nz/chchheart

Enrolment Scheme and Cohort Advert 2022

Wakanui School is likely to have 8 places for Out of Zone enrolments in 2023 for New Entrants and 2 places in each of Years 2, 3 and 4.

Application enquiries can be made by emailing the school office at office@wakanui.school.nz whereby you will be forwarded the appropriate documents to be returned by the 23 September 2022 deadline.

All In Zone applications should also be made by this date to assist in determining the exact number of Out of Zone places.

If Out of Zone applications exceed the number of places, a ballot will be required. This will take place on 30 September 2022.

Cohort Entry

Wakanui School operates a Cohort Entry Policy. There will be 8 entry points for new entrants who have had their 5th birthday:

30 January 06 March 24 April 29 May 17 July 21 August 09 October 13 November

For enquiries regarding either the Enrolment Scheme or Cohort Entry, please contact the school office Ph 302 3899.

GRAZING

LAMB Grazing wanted for the spring, top money for top feed.

Phone Mitch 0273131320

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.

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

Water Maintenance Superstar

ACL are looking for a Water Maintenance Superstar to join our team. One of our long-term servicemen has decided to hang up his boots after 10 years of faultless service with his retirement imminent as of the Christmas break 2022. We are now actively advertising and searching to find their replacement.

The team wishes to fill this role as soon as possible, therefore giving us the ability to have an extended transition period where the new employee can be trained by the best.

The role is based at the Ocean Farm tertiary wastewater treatment site – this is the end of the treatment process where the final effluent is irrigated to land.

This position would suit someone who is physically fit and able to undertake routine inspections, repairs and cleaning of sprinklers – we have about 1400 of them. If you love working outdoors and can work unsupervised, ACL Water want to hear from you.

A typical day would see you travel to site and undertake checks of the irrigation system and the farmlands where the pop-up sprinklers are located.

We are interested in someone with a can-do attitude and hands-on experience of sprinkler repair or plumbing type works – this position includes a fair content of manual labour. The position is sole charge, meaning you will work alone for most of the time – reporting directly to the Treatment Plant operators, they will provide direction and monitor performance of the facility.

Travelling around the farm is on an ATV and we use a Lone Worker Protocol including being equipped with an EPIRB (emergency locator beacon). This role may suit a variety of applicants that have reliable work ethics, practical hands-on skills and sound communication. Some computer skills maybe of an advantage, but ACL will provide full training to a suitable applicant.

If this role sounds like you, don’t hesitate to give the ACL Water Manager (Aaron Gairns 027 284 1117) a call or apply directly online.

FOR SALE

GREY Fabric Lounge Suite, Large Expandable Round Table and 4 Chairs and Two Wooden Wall Units. Phone 3088258.

LIVESTOCK, PETS

PUPS For Sale – 5 Beautiful Black Labrador/Retriever Puppies. Mum - Curly Coat Retriever and Dad – Black Labrador. Great Family Dogs $800 ono. Phone Shelley 0270847558 or Bob 021525347.

FUNERALS

2023 Health Studies Bursary

Altrusa International of Ashburton Inc.

Invites applications for this bursary valued at $1000

For full criteria and an application form please email kbegg@xtra.co.nz

DEATHS

FORSYTH, William Pearce (Bill) –

On September 5, 2022, passed away peacefully at home, aged 90 years. Devoted husband and best friend of Merilyn, darling and most precious dad of Zara and Carlo, Jade and Craig, adored grandad of Lucca, Matteo; Cole, and Miliana.

“Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts”

In lieu of flowers, donations to Canterbury Charity Hospital Trust, can be made via their website charityhospital.org.nz.

Special thanks to Dr Mark Cohen, and Nurse Maude Carers for all the care and support given to Bill and family. Messages may be addressed to The Family of the late Bill Forsyth, c/- PO Box 39001, Christchurch 8545. A Service to celebrate Bill’s life will be held in St Marks Presbyterian Church, Withells Road, Avonhead, Christchurch, on FRIDAY, September 9, at 2pm, private cremation thereafter.

QUIGLEY, Edna Agnes –Our beautiful mum, nana and family matriarch Edna joined pop (Peter) on Father’s Day, September 4, 2022 peacefully surrounded by family at Ashburton Hospital, aged 85 years. Loved mum and mum-in-law of Joyce and Derek Bingham, David and Jill, Lyn (Netty) and Trevor Andrew, Barry and Pauline, much loved by her grandchildren and great grandchildren and her many friends. ‘Fly high our shining star’ Messages to the Quigley family, PO Box 472, Ashburton 7740. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Ashburton Cancer Society would be appreciated and may be made online at bit.ly/eaquigley0409. A service for Edna will be held in Our Chapel, cnr East & Cox Streets, Ashburton on FRIDAY, September 9, commencing at 2pm, followed by private cremation at the Ashburton Crematorium. For anyone wishing to view the service online go www.patersonsfuneralservic es.co.nz ‘Funeral Notices’ and click on Edna’s notice for the link.

FORSYTH, William Pearce (Bill) –

Loved brother and brotherin-law of Jean and the late Bill Seyb, Margaret and Roland Johnson. Loved uncle of his nieces and nephews, Peter, Helen and Andrew Johnson: Marion and Alison Seyb.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

MANSON, Sinclair (Mansie) –Yvonne, Donella, Paul, Darren, Jody and Families wish to sincerely thank everyone who supported us through the loss of a much loved Husband, Father, Grandfather and Father-inlaw. Thank you for all the beautiful flowers, the many cards, food, visits and phone calls and to those who attended the service. All of these were very much appreciated. The many kindnesses shown to us helped us through a very sad time. Special thanks to Jo and Kate and to Carol Gunn and Nurses in Ward 1.

Sinclair your Battle is over. Rest now with those who have gone before you.

QUIGLEY, Edna Agnes –At Ashburton Hospital, on September 4, 2022, aged 85 years. Loved wife of the late Peter and daughter of the late Bella and John Gray and much loved sister and sisterin-law of the late Mervyn, and Joan Gray, Bruce and Yvonne Gray and Shona and Bill Weir. A loved aunty to her nieces and nephews. A service for Edna will be held in Our Chapel, cnr East & Cox Streets, Ashburton on FRIDAY, September 9, commencing at 2pm, followed by private cremation at the Ashburton Crematorium. ‘Adored and sadly missed’

Complete Local Care Since 1982

Ashburton Weather

Thursday: Mostly cloudy with rain at times, clearing by evening. Light winds, then northeasterlies from afternoon.

Canterbury Plains

Thursday: Mostly cloudy with scattered rain, clearing by evening. Light winds, then northeasterlies from afternoon.

Friday: Mainly fine. Morning frosts. Light winds and afternoon northeasterlies.

Saturday: Fine. Northeasterlies developing in the morning.

Weak troughs affect central and northern parts of the country while a weak front over Canterbury is forecast to move away to the east this afternoon. A narrow ridge builds over the rest of the South Island. A low pressure system develops over the North Island tomorrow and then slowly drifts southwards onto the upper South Island by early Sunday. On Sunday a northeasterly flow builds over the entire country as a complex frontal system approaches from the west.

Around The Region

Christchurch

Friday: Mainly fine with morning frosts. Light winds and afternoon northeasterlies.

We miss you Mansie.

MASON

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

Saturday: Fine

Canterbury High Country Readings to 4pm

Thursday

Mountain weather hazards: Snow, Wind Chill.

Scattered rain, mainly south of and about Arthur’s Pass, with snow to 900m in the morning, clearing by evening. The odd shower developing in the north towards midday, sleety above 1000m, clearing in the evening.

Winds at 1000m and 2000m: Light.

Freezing level: 1000m rising to 1200m from midday.

Friday

Mountain weather hazard: Wind Chill. Fine. Morning frosts.

Winds at 1000m and 2000m: Light.

Freezing level: 1600m.

Sun and Moon

2:09am 2:41pm 8:18am 8:50pm

1:53am 2:25pm 8:02am 8:34pm 1:59am 2:32pm 8:12am 8:48pm

3:00am 3:31pm 9:10am 9:39pm

2:54am 3:24pm 9:09am 9:41pm

2:44am 3:15pm 8:54am 9:23pm

6:47am 6:15pm 6:45am 6:16pm 6:43am 6:17pm

3:08pm 5:54am 4:29pm 6:28am 5:49pm 6:57am

We are the only Mid Canterbury funeral home providing local, caring and dignified cremations.

through the research and development of improved diagnosis, better prediction and treatment of heart disease in our hospital and community.

FinalWhistle

all

Top wheelmen back in action

The Canterbury Wheelies basketball team will return to Ashburton this month for their rescheduled annual clash with an Ashburton invitational team at the Oxford Street Stadium.

Age group reps

Aorangi golfers named

Lydia on the way