14 December Blenheim Sun by The Blenheim Sun

Sun The

December 14, 2018

Sun Weather

Today 11-21

Saturday 11-23

Blenheim Marlborough

Sunday 13-24

Outlook for Today

Monday 13-29 Cloudy periods, chance after-

WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LL GET YOU HOME

Phone us : 03 5777 868

Vigil for Grace noon shower. Light winds.

By Bill McElhinney More than 100 people gathered at the Taylor River Amphitheatre last night to honour and remember English backpacker Grace Millane, who was killed earlier this month. The Blenheim vigil was a spontaneous event, timed to coincide with others happening around the country at the same time. Continued on page 2. A minute of silence. Part of the crowd that gathered last night at the Taylor River Amphitheatre for a vigil for slain English backpacker Grace Millane.

Bamboo Garden Restaurant Book now for your Christmas and New Year functions We can cater for a party of 8, a group of 120, or anything in between. Set menus available. Call us to book NOW!

Lunch 11:30am-2pm Weds to Sun. www.bamboogarden.co.nz Dinner from 5pm 7 days Email: admin@bamboogarden.co.nz Takeaway 4.30pm-9pm 31 Maxwell Rd, Blenheim Takeaway and delivery available 4:30pm-9pm Ph: 0-3-579 1118

Friday December 14, 2018

How to reach us

Crowds turnout for vigil By Bill McElhinney Continued on page 2.

Les Whiteside

Katrina Whiteside

Publisher

Telephone (03) 5777 868 The Sun 18,785 copies.

The largest circulating newspaper in Marlborough. TWICE WEEKLY Delivering to: Blenheim, Picton, Renwick, Havelock & Seddon.

PICTON Missed deliveries

PH (03) 5777-868 www.blenheimsun.co.nz E-mail: news@blenheimsun.co.nz ads@blenheimsun.co.nz Address: 72 High St, Blenheim P.O. Box 634 Blenheim Fax: (03) 577-7863

quote of the week The great pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do. Walter Bagehot

Your logo here! Ph 5777 868 to sponsor the Sun Quote of the Week

“A few of us got talking about it, and it just grew from there,” Sonia O’Regan says. “It was a chance to stand in solidarity with other vigils around the country, to show our anger and sadness that this has happened. It’s about standing up and saying we care.” T he crowd was add resse d by Marlborough Girls’ College deputy principal, Jo Chamberlain, and after a minute of silence, Raewyn Heta led the crowd in a waiata. There was an opportunity to make a donation to the Blenheim Women’s Refuge, and Sonia says they were thrilled to collect $200 to donate to the Refuge. A vigil for Grace was held in Queenstown on Tuesday, and one was held in Auckland on Wednesday night. In Christchurch, more than 300 people gathered in Cathedral Square to pay tribute and share their sorrow, despair and disgust over what had happened to Grace. Grace vanished at the start of the month, sparking a massive police operation culminating in her body being discovered in a remote area in Auckland’s Waitakere Ranges on Sunday. On Monday, a 26-year-old man accused of her murder appeared in the Auckland District Court. Earlier on Wednesday Grace’s father, David Millane, issued a statement thanking everyone involved in the investigation. “We would like to thank the people of New Zealand for their outpouring of love, numerous messages, tributes and compassion,” he said. “Grace was not born here and only managed to stay a few weeks, but you have taken her to your hearts and in some small way she will forever be a Kiwi.” He said the family’s world had “turned upside down” following his daughter’s disappearance on December 1. However, he hoped his daughter’s death “will not deter even one person from venturing out into the world and discovering their own OE”, he said.

SATURDAY 15TH DECEMBER

Candles and flowers were placed at the Taylor River Ampitheatre during the vigil for slain English backpacker Grace Millane.

‘We are sad, we are angry, but we care’ “The world has lost a beautiful young woman to violence- forever,” Marlborough Girls’ College deputy principal, Jo Chamberlain, told those assembled at the Blenheim vigil for Grace Millane last night. “Grace’s story of a young person on her gap year is too familiar to many Kiwis. “My 23-year-old son Jack is currently travelling in Columbia, South America for a few months and yes, I constantly worry about his safety. “I think many of us over these past days have thought that Grace’s death could have been - my daughter or my friend’s child or any one of us,” Jo said. “Gathering tonight is a simple but heartfelt way to say ‘ We care’ ‘We are sad’ ‘We are angry.’ We show our solidarity as a nation against any acts of violence. “We also want to acknowledge all other victims of violence, particularly domestic violence against women, which is often hidden. “A paper discussing the prevention of family violence was delivered to parliament this week by Dr Ian Lambie, the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor

for Justice. “The paper is titled ‘Every 4 Minutes’ reflecting the fact that a call-out for a family violence incident in New Zealand occurs every four minutes! “We have come together to say that we care about this and about what has happened to Grace. “I had the privilege of hearing a world renown speaker speak earlier this year about feminism, sex and power,” Jo said. “She has written a number of books and presented a number of Ted talks. “She is hugely thought provoking and I implore all of you here to look her up and consider carefully what she has to say. Her name was Peggy Orenstein. “Another person worth looking at is Maree Crabb. We’ve all got stuff to learn here and be the engineers of the societal change required.” Jo told the crowd the event was not organised by Women’s Refuge, but encouraged them to make a donation to Marlborough Women’s Refuge. “Sadly, they get even busier at this time of year,” she said.

Open every day till late for coffee, lunch & dinner 1130am – late Sit in the sun this holiday season with friends and family. Enjoy a full Speights range on tap including Emerson's, Panhead, and Harrington's by the bottle plus a wide selection of Marlborough wines by the glass.

Live music DoubleShot from 9pm. Platter Menu for larger groups 19 wines by the glass - Over 30 gins Cocktails after 5 Extensive craft beer selection

Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Open New Years Day from 4pm Otherwise 11.30am - late.

BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL BOOK ONLINE

THERE IS A PLACE LIKE HOME

Ph 03 5776 495 | 70 Queen Street, Blenheim, Marlborough | www.goodhomebar.co.nz

www.alehouseblenheim.co.nz Phone 03 577 9992 Middle Renwick Road, Springlands

OPEN 7 DAYS Mon - Fri 11.30am til late | Sat - Sun 9am til late

Open 7 days 11.30am - late

Friday December 14, 2018

inbrief Theft from cars Overnight from December 9-10 vehicles parked at three addresses in Grigg Drive, Witherlea, were entered and searched. Two of the vehicles were left insecure and had keys, wallets and computer items taken. The Police are asking members of the public to contact them if they have seen or heard anything suspicious in the area overnight from Sunday to Monday. Motorists are encouraged to take valuables with them when leaving their vehicles parked and to secure and lock their vehicles before leaving them.

Christmas lights display

Ben de Goeij was the first in the ice skating rink set up in Blenheim yesterday, which will be open to the public through to Sunday.

Ice skating this weekend By Celeste Alexander Ice skating in summer? Yes you heard right! The Marlborough District Council has brought in the ‘Ice Skate Tour’, an artificial ice rink for the community to enjoy from now through to Sunday. The rink was set up yesterday to coincide with the Blenheim Christmas Festival and the beginning of the school holidays. The 10m x 16m rink is complete with inflatable walls, music from MoreFM, a bubble machine and more. What’s unique about this is that the whole family can enjoy ice skating together owner Robin de Goeij says. Robin travels around the country with his mobile artificial ice rink,

visiting schools, clubs and different regions for public and private events. “I teach kids to skate at schools, go to A&P Shows and even staff functions,” he says. This is the second time the the ice rink has come to Blenheim. “We came this time last year and it was a huge hit,” Robin says. “The feedback was good and we had great numbers.” The most popular age of people using the rink is primary aged children, Robin says. “But we like to get mums and dads in there too! It’s the kind of sport where parents and children are on the same level and can have fun together. “That’s what this business is all

about, bringing families together,” he says. The ice rink is not only fun, but environmentally friendly too. “We use little power, and only to inflate the walls of the rink,” Robin adds. “It’s also great because it’s the same gliding capacity as natural ice. The skates are identical to ice skates too, but the best part is that there is no ice so no getting cold and wet,” he says. The surface is synthetic and similar to a kitchen chopping board, and safety is important with helmets and gloves being provided. “Come along and have some fun, we look forward to seeing you,” Robin says. Venue: Liz Davidson Place,

Blenheim CBD Opening times: - Thursday 14th Dec: 12pm to 8pm - Friday 15th Dec: 10pm to 6pm - Saturday 16th Dec: 10pm to 6pm - Sunday 17th Dec: 10pm to 5pm Cost: Only $2pp gold coin donation per session. Sessions will be a minimum of 30 mins. Age Restrictions: The rink is perfect for children but everyone is welcome. No minimum age restriction - skates from child size 9 to adult size 13. Adult supervision is required at all times. It is recommended that you wear long socks and bring sunscreen and sunglasses - if it’s sunny, the rink will be very bright

Caretakers Cottage - Brayshaw Park (9-11pm) Girling’s Drapery, Beavertown shops, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Place 9 Page Street, Blenheim - Outside display 12 Avery Place, Blenheim - conservatory, open to the public. 30 Westhaven Place, Blenheim 18 Gill Crescent, Blenheim 1d Meachen Crescent (off Lee St) Hilton Place. If you would like to list your Christmas lights display with the Sun, email celeste@blenheimsun.co.nz

Another win for Nikita Nikita Henderson, 27, a duty manager at the Woodbourne Tavern in Renwick, was one of eight promising young professionals in New Zealand awarded a scholarship to go towards the cost of a Diploma in Hospitality Management Level 5. The announcement was made on December 11 that Nikita was selected for the 2018 Hospitality NZ/ Sky Future Leaders Scholarship, worth $3000 per winner. This comes after Nikita won the Hospitality NZ’s ‘Up and Coming Duty Manager - Rising Star Award’ in October.

ON ALL V6 AND V8 YAMAHA OUTBOARDS.

Offer ends 31st December. Terms and conditions apply, full details in store. 701 SH1 Koromiko Blenheim Ph 03 573 7736

72 Grove Road Blenheim Ph 03 578 0569

Do you want 4 to earn some extra money for Christmas? Friday December 14, 2018

PERMANENT & RELIEF DELIVERERS REQUIRED Blenheim and Renwick Areas School students with parental / caregivers support. Also may suit semi-retired or retired persons. If this sounds like you please give us a call

Phone Susan (03) 5777868

Blenheim Menz Shed chairman Dave Oliver with Rapaura School junior pupils and their new yellow digger. From left: Finn Morrison, Trae Gleeson, Samuel Wilson, Lofia Peek, Alex Partridge, Ella Bailey, Braxton Macown and in front Keegan Booyens.

Menz Shed digger a hit at Rapaura FIBER EARTH MIX PLUS All in one soil conditioner Invigorates natural growth 25kg Layers Pellets 25kg Layers Meal 25kg Meatbird Pellets 20kg Chooken Treat 20kg Chooken Brew ALL LOCALLY PRODUCED ON SITE BY KIWI SEED 527 Old Renwick Rd Phone 578 0468

www.kiwiseed.co.nz

By Bill McElhinney A big yellow digger arrived at Rapaura School this week, much to the delight of junior pupils. The digger is the work of Blenheim Menz Shed member Darryl Robins, who spent hours constructing it to withstand the rigours of school use. “It’s all treated timber and stainless steel,” Blenheim Menz Shed chairman Dave Oliver says. “And of course it’s painted Caterpillar tractor yellow!” Youngsters can sit on the digger and manipulate the levers to dig and dump sand in the school sandpit and there were many eager to have a go when it arrived. “We originally wanted the Menz Shed to make us a workbench,” teacher Debbie Godsiff says.

“But then we decided on the digger instead, and it’s marvellous. The kids will get a great deal of fun from this.” The Menz Shed undertakes many community projects and often gets donations towards the cost of materials in return. Recognising the potential for men of retirement age to become socially isolated, the

first Menz Shed was launched in Australia in 2008. It has since been introduced to New Zealand and has more than 300 organisations nationally. In Marlborough, there are four menz sheds in Blenheim, Renwick, Havelock and Picton which offer men a space and equipment to form bonds over projects.

The Cactus course participants haul a fire engine down Main Street on Saturday as part of the Longest Day challenge.

Come on over to our brand new Omaka Landing Display Home..... New Display Home: 7 Corsair Crescent, Omaka Open: Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 12pm - 2pm Sunday 1pm - 3pm Office & Display Home: 5 Laird Street, off Taylor Pass Road Open: Monday - Thursday 9am - 4pm, Friday 9am - 12pm Sunday 1pm - 4pm

Jennian Homes Marlborough 5 Laird Street, Taylor Pass Road P 03 578 2017 E marlborough@jennian.co.nz jennian.co.nz

Big day, big haul for Cactus kids By Bill McElhinney They ran, they dragged, they pulled and then they ran some more, for some to the point of exhaustion. But thanks to the support and encouragement of their leaders, they didn’t give up. The Cactus (Combine Adolescent Challenge Training Unit and Support) Longest Day event was held on Saturday, a gruelling morning to top off eight-weeks of intense training - no mean feat for the group of teenagers who

took part in the latest Cactus programme. Supported by police, the Cactus fitness and discipline programme has been running in Marlborough since 2007. The course aims to teach teens self-discipline, motivation, teamwork, communication and hard work. To get them across the line and into the graduation hall the group had to wake up at 5.55am three days a week for eight weeks for an intense

hour-long training session, culminating in the longest day challenge. Parents also pitch in and help provide breakfast after the early training sessions. The final challenge on Saturday was to pull a 9480kg fire engine from the Blenheim Fire Station to Marlborough Boys’ College, followed by laps of the college sports field before the graduation ceremony and cheers and congratulations from families and friends.

Friday December 14, 2018

He korero no te Kaunihera o Wairau NEWS FROM THE MARLBOROUGH DISTRICT COUNCIL

Where’s the best place for a dip? Planning to go to your favourite beach or river for a swim this summer? It’s easy to check the water quality of your favourite spot before you head out because Council’s recreational bathing sampling programme is underway, with weekly samples collected from 21 sites across Marlborough. Testing continues until March. In summer the risk of catching an infectious diseases from swimming in clear, clean water is usually low. However, after heavy rain, contamination can occur through runoff into waterways. Swimming in discoloured water increases your chance of catching an infection. As a rule of thumb, don’t swim if the water

looks dirty or murky, smells or has scum on its surface. You can check the latest results for Marlborough’s favourite swimming spots on the Land and Water Aotearoa website: www.lawa.

org.nz/explore-data/ marlborough-region/ swimming/ There’s also information on the Council website at www.marlborough. govt.nz/recreation/ swimming-andboating/swimminglocations

Redwood Pass Road- Road stopping In exercise of the power contained in section 342(1)(a) of the Local Government Act 1974, and in accordance with the Tenth Schedule of that Act, public notice is hereby given that the Marlborough District Council proposes to stop the following portions of legal road generally to the south of the Vernon Lagoons but more particularly shown in the plans referred to below: Section 1 SO514975 – 2.1950 ha Section 2 SO514975 – 0.5800 ha Section 3 SO514975 – 1.8050 ha Section 4 SO514975 – 0.4515 ha Explanation The road stopping relates back to an agreement made in 1895 whereby certain lands were vested as road in exchange for other land being unused legal road. The transfer as intended was not finalised at that time. The intention is that the stopping would be based on the several distinct areas of road as identified.

Purpose Should the road stopping be completed the land will be transferred to and amalgamated with the relevant adjoining landowners’ title. Further Information Further details of the proposed road stopping, including a survey plan showing the portion of road to be stopped and an aerial photo showing the road land position may be inspected at the office of the Marlborough District Council, Seymour Street, Blenheim. Anyone wishing to object to any or all of the proposed road stoppings can submit a written objection to the Council no later than . The submission should identify which particular portion of legal road the submission relates to. The submission should be addressed to Tony Quirk, District Secretary, Marlborough District Council, PO Box 443, Blenheim 7240 or email tony.quirk@marlborough.govt.nz

Ageing Positively - Caring for carers Stress and exhaustion, depression or poor health can be the price paid by those with responsibility for the long-term care of a chronically ill or disabled person. While many of us get a break over the Christmas period, that may not be the case for a full time carer. As our population ages, there’s likely to be more unpaid caregivers looking after a family member or close friend, so it’s important to know where to turn for help. Marlborough’s Community Hospice and the family GP can advise and support someone caring for a seriously ill person.

The Nelson Marlborough DHB has a key role through its needs assessment coordination service in Blenheim - Support Works, Ph: 0800 244 300 There are other organisations which can help: • Stroke Group: Ph. 03 578 3603 • Diabetes Marlborough Inc: Ph. 03 577 5549 • Alzheimers Society: Ph. 03 577 6172 • MS and Parkinson’s Society: Ph. 03 578 4058 • Age Concern Marlborough: Ph. 03 579 3457 • Cancer Society: Ph. 03 579 4379 • Te Hauora O Ngati Rarua: Ph. 03 577 8404.

www.marlborough.govt.nz

Marlborough Airport – tell us what you think In a bid to identify areas for improvement since the completion of the new terminal, an online survey is underway covering a range of topics including airport parking, security, baggage and the terminal building. Marlborough Airport Chief Executive Dean Heiford said the survey aims to harness the views of Marlburians and

visitors to the airport. “We want to know what we do well and where the areas for improvement are. Marlborough Airport users are best placed to provide us with this information, and the online survey is the avenue for them to share their feedback with us directly,” Mr Heiford said. The survey is being conducted by Research First, on behalf of

Marlborough Airport. It takes about 10 minutes to complete and all responses remain confidential. You can complete the survey at: http://survey. researchfirst.co.nz/SE/1/J1794/ The survey closes at 5.00 pm on Monday 17 December 2018. Results will only be reported on an aggregate level by reporting combined results and not identifying individuals.

New and improved Pollard Park playground Pollard Park playground improvements are underway with phase one of the upgrade completed in time for summer. Council Reserves and Amenities Manager Jane Tito said Pollard Park is one of Marlborough’s premier destination playgrounds and the new equipment and improvements reflect that. “The playground now features new safety matting underneath a repurposed swing set. The matting surface has also been laid under the adventure area.” A new liberty swing, which allows those with disabilities to participate in play, is another feature of the playground. “The installation of the liberty swing was supported by a donation from parents of the Differently Abled Children of Marlborough group and is a wonderful asset for the playground,” Jane said. Phase two of the playground improvements are set to begin by April next year. This phase will feature new acorn style play equipment, additional safety matting and four new musical instrument play pieces.

Marlborough Health Shuttle The Marlborough Health Shuttle Service is operated by St John and is available to provide transport within Marlborough to all medical

related appointments. The service operates 8.00 am to 5.00 pm Monday to Friday. To book the Marlborough Health Service Shuttle phone

Street Address: Phone: 03 520 7400 15 Seymour Street Fax: 03 520 7496 Email: mdc@marlborough.govt.nz Blenheim 7201 New Zealand

0800 333 781. Please note that bookings are required by 2.00 pm the day prior to your appointment.

txt

Friday December 14, 2018

talk Main highway

To Main highway are you serious.... The men and woman have worked day and night in the worst conditions and have done the most amazing job. A mammoth task and in the time they’ve done it in is nothing short of an engineering feat which they won an award for and the new roads are amazing, you are unbelievable please don’t use that road go the long way. To the Kaikoura Road traveller. Words l’d like to say can’t be printed. Would love to see you working in the conditions l saw that amazing road crew dealing with last Wednesday. To keep the road open. Shame on you. Would love to know what job you do. If you have one.

Good service Brooks Bros staff (in Opawa St) are always cheerful and helpful. Have been going to them for over 40 years. Mitchell Sports shop is likewise. Love the caring approach u get from our local businesses.

River spelling I agree with text talk person last week, Opawa River being spelt Opaoa now. What the heck. So unnecessary.

Speed bumps Speed bumps for Beaver Rd...great idea.. MDC will you fix Eltham Rd with them also. Easy solution to the dogs breakfast you have there at present. Dumb completely dumb mess. Please sort it.

Vandals hit willows The vandals that did all the damage to the willows near Springcreek. I hope someone pots you.

Aerobatics

Expensive

When we signed the sale and purchase agreement to purchase our section at Omaka Landing part of that agreement was that we “wouldn’t object to the activities of the Omaka airfield”, which I accepted like everybody else who has purchased here including those who are now complaining. So if you are now not happy move on.

How can the cost of the 13 day Readers Rail Tours be justified! We have just savoured a wonderful, all meal inclusive, 15 day experience of India, including flights, for the same price. There is something wrong here and it is not just tourists who have concerns about the expense in seeing NZ. Shame.

Get real people living in Omaka Landing you knew the airfield was there before you built your house next you will be complaining about the easter airshow. The airfield was there before you were and is not moving to suit you. Yes to aerobatic planes.These guys have such an amazing talent. The airfield has been there for many years before it became a residential area. Surely you knew that when you build there. Thought the dump smell would be worse. Here we go ! You knew an airfield was there when you brought your place, sell and move, they won't be closing the airport just because of you !!! Omaka aeroclub has been there for 90years. You decide to buy a house near an aerodrome, what do you expect!? They bring alot of tourism into Marlborough. I suggest you go away over Easter 2019. To the whinger who wrote regarding Aircraft noise at Omaka. Get real. You bought there knowing you were going to be living next to an airfield. If you dont like it, pack up and live somewhere else. Preferably in another country. Aero club moved on by home owners???? Ah who's been there for years, and did you not put a bit of thought before you moved to new subdivision? Omaka ...plane. Every person enjoys a Sunday morning....please who ever is constantly flying there noisey plane... Could you spare a thought for others who need a rest from work and family... I'm over hearing it

Turn music down

To the yes to aerobatics people. Do you have to be so belittling in your comments. I can sympathise with those who complain but surely insults will not solve anything

When people are trying to sleep on a week night and you are in your car outside with your stereo up to max at 12.23am. Have some thought 4 your neighbours in Mayfield area. Ignorant

Yes there are many houses in the area now. Maybe you should have thought more about your build or purchase. The planes were there long before you and will be still there long after you have gone

Pound hounds

I've just been waiting for the moaners to come out of the woodwork. The Omaka runway has been there for over 100 years. If you didnt like planes you should have built somewhere else.

Feel for the dogs crying while waiting for owners to collect from pound. Makes for a very sad day.

Xmas Parade Xmas parade is a lovely tradition and thanks to all who organize and participate. Would be good if it flowed better though so just a tiny bit of attention to this would make all the difference.

Thanks To whom it may concern. Thanks for the seal at the approaches to the Opawa bridge. A lot better. Ferry bridge would be good also. Thank you.

Two years to re seal Banana bridge (opawa) two years to reseal bumps and pot holes?.

Cancel Express Why does Express paper repeat a lot of the articles in their free papers now ? May as well cancel my subscription.

Power account I am a pensioner went to pay my powerbill. I left one number out bank said money gone into power companys account. Power company said they can’t find it I have my receipt. So where does the money go a month later still no joy what do I do ....so stressful

Fresh muffins please Local cafes (some, not all) if you are going to sell muffins please make them fresh. It’s not hard! You’ll sell way more.

Pool fees To the Council - How about lowering the entry fee to the indoor pool for people we support with a disability. A lot of them only get a small allowance to spend each week.

Christmas parade What a great day the Christmas Parade was. Krista, Brittani and Danica are truly the dream team! Well done girls

Stuart Smith MP for Kaikoura I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and peaceful new year. Blenheim Electorate office will be closed 24 December and re-open 7th January 2019 Amberley offices closed from 24 December and re-opened late January- all enquires to Blenheim electorate office by phoning 0800 STUART Funded by the Parliamentary Service. Authorised by Stuart Smith, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.

txt talk

of the week

Many thanks Many thanks to the lady I met in the cheapie shop in Maxwell Road who was looking for an Elf hat for the Christmas “do” at Donegal House Kaikoura ...for telling me I could find an Elf On the shelf at Poswillo’s in Scott Street. Perfect !!! Thank you. We welcome your texts on 027 242 5266. Limit to 70 words please. Name supplied please. We reserve the right to publish at our discretion. Please note the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Sun management.

Got an important issue to share with Marlborough?

Text your thoughts to: 027 242 5266

Quit smoking? It will be interesting to see how the government will marry its Quit Smoking and Legalise Marijuana campaigns

Keiths cat I think.. Keith the cat might be out toming. oh what a night. Keith the cat disappearing at nite. Shut him in with a dirt box. Simple. It’s probably him harrassing the rest of the neighbourhood cats and birds in their nests. Or he’s found a better place to stay.

Screaming child Went shopping in Countdown Wednesday afternoon and all the customers could hear was this little boy SCREAMING Went shopping in Redwood Countdown Wednesday afternoon and all the customers could hear and see was this little boy RUNNING up and down the aisles SCREAMING at the top of his lungs. Customers were wincing with the noise especially the man next to me that had hearing aids on. I did ask a staff member if they could say something to the mother but they are not allowed to. They go shopping there quite a bit so l hope something can be done to stop this in any other shop as well. P C gone absolutely crazy when the store managers can't say anything as well. When the kids run around they can cause accidents then what would happen. A whole lot of trouble l bet

Friday December 14, 2018

Redwoodtown School students create mural By Megan Connolly Redwoodtown School unveiled an important mural on Monday morning created by the Pasifika group as part of their term project. The 56 Pasifika group students spent eight weeks working on the project in small groups during morning tea and lunch breaks, each taking turns to paint. Teacher and Pasifika coordinator, Kate Faith, had the students each create their own mural, from which she compiled one large mural.

Each aspect of the mural is an accumulation of the student’s cultural heritage and represents their mark upon the school. Borders around the outside symbolise Maori heritage while each pattern symbolises Tonga, Niue, Samoa and Rarotonga, and the colours to replicate a sunset. The quote in the middle says “Ua Fetai lelei fola o le ‘alia’” which teaches how the deck planks (fola) of the voyaging canoe (‘alia’) fit together well.

It means that great things can be accomplished if everyone works together, Kate says. The students were quite surprised how well it turned out, they say. “They were really engaging with the work. Every time they came back in they would see a bit more of what had been done. “I hope they feel proud about the identity they have instilled into the school,” Kate says.

Sending love By Celeste Alexander The staff at Age Concern Marlborough received a box filled with love on Tuesday in the form of cards written by people from all over the country. These cards have been hand designed, predomiantely by children, with messages of love and will be delivered by Catherine Donnelly and her team at Age Concern next week. Catherine says it was a “beautiful surprise” to open the box and find around 100 cards with special messages, jokes, stories and colourful drawings. “It was super special and shows how strong the Christmas spirit is,” she says. The letters are collected as part of a nationwide platform that encourages people and communities to make a fes-

Redwoodtown School Pasifika group unveiled their mural on Monday which represents Tonga, Niue, Samoa and Rarotonga, outside the kowhai classroom.

Melissa Haylock and Catherine Donnelly of Age Concern Marlborough with some of the handwritten Christmas cards they will be handing out to local elderly next week.

tive gesture towards another person who may experience loneliness over Christmas.

It is one person putting love and thought into a card to pass on to another. In Marlborough, there

is still a collection box available for these cards at the Marlborough District Library.

To cross or not By Community Constable Russ Smith Gazetted pedestrian crossings have white lines painted on the crossing, black and white striped poles either side and white diamonds painted on the road at the approaches either side of the crossing. The main rules that apply to gazetted pedestrian crossings are: Motorists must give way to pedestrians who are on either side of a crossing and who will cross the path of the motorist, unless the crossing is divided by a raised traffic island. A vehicle has right-of-way if a pedestrian on the crossing is on the other side of a raised traffic island dividing the crossing. A pedestrian must not step out onto a crossing unless approaching vehicles are far enough away to be able to stop safely. Realistically, courteous motorists will often stop to allow pedestrians across such a crossing, even though the vehicle may have right-of-way. Pedestrians should make eye contact with approaching motorists to ensure that they have seen you. Stepping out in front of a moving vehicle on the assumption that you have been seen

Constable Russ Smith

could result in a serious injury. Other areas designed as convenient crossing points for pedestrians are usually paved with the same tiles as those used on the pavements in the town centre and they are raised above road level. These do not have white lines painted across them. These are not gazetted pedestrian crossings; they are simply convenient crossing points. The only rule here is: Vehicles have right-of-way. Pedestrians must give way to moving vehicles. It is up to the pedestrian to ensure that the roadway is clear before walking across.

Motorists are often going to show courtesy and stop to allow pedestrians to cross, but the pedestrian carries the responsibility of ensuring that it is safe for them to cross. Usually mounted on streets a little further out of the CBD you will also find courtesy crossings. These usually have concrete islands on either curb, a concrete island in the centre of the road with a refuge area in the centre, and yellow tread areas marking the sides and centre of the crossing area. There are no road-markings. Again, the only rule here is: Vehicles have right-of-way. Pedestrians must give way to moving vehicles. It is up to the pedestrian to ensure that the roadway is clear before walking across. The grey raised concrete squares that are laid in strips across the approaches to many of the intersections in the town centre are called ‘rumble strips.’ These are designed as an audible warning to drivers who cross them and are intended to slow drivers down. They are not a pedestrian crossing and it is dangerous to use them as such.

Friday December 14, 2018

Historic gown comes to school Then returned to Waitangi museum By Megan Connolly Lynette Cherrington brought a very important part of her family and New Zealand’s history into Renwick school last week to show her grandson Johnathan and others at the school. The linen christening gown can be traced back to 1863 and royalty. Many of her family have been christened in the historical garment, including Lynette, her children, and her five grandsons, since it was gifted to her ancestors in 1863 by Queen Victoria. The story of how a family in New Zealand brushed with royalty was relatively unknown until Lynette’s grandmother passed it on to her. “My grandmother kept the gown in her family home but never told anyone,” Lynette says. Early in 1863, Hare and Hariata Pomare travelled the seas to have an audience with Queen Victoria herself at the Isle of Wight. Hariata was pregnant at the time, and a grieving Queen Victoria, whose husband Prince Albert had died, asked that if the child was born a girl could she be named Victoria, and if it were a boy, Albert. The Queen also said she would like to be the child’s godmother. When she was notified of the birth of a boy, Albert Victor, she gifted the family the christening gown, a gilt silver goblet and cutlery. Each piece was engraved with the words: ‘To Albert Victor Pomare from his God mother Queen Victoria, November 1863’. The gown and the other gifts are now housed in the Waitangi Museum and are there for people to see. The reason for this historical gown’s

Nikki Hinkley of SF Marlborough receives food donations from New World Blenheim supermarket grocery buying manager Ashleigh Blick. New World Blenheim generously supported the Sun's Christmas Appeal by putting out a trolley for customer donations as well as donating six boxes of goods. The food donations will be used in Christmas packages for struggling families that SF Marlborough works with. Thank you to everyone who supported the Sun's Christmas Appeal. Photo by Celeste Alexander.

Lynette Cherrington with the christening gown given to her ancestor, Albert Victor Pomare in 1863 by the child's godmother, Queen Victoria.

departure from its new home at the Waitangi Museum is for Lynette’s newest grandson’s christening. “It will be the last time it will be used for a chris-

tening,” Lynette says. The gown will be sent back to the Waitangi Museum this week once Lynette’s grandson has been christened.

LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE

Stay involved in young people’s driving A father who lost his son in a tragic car crash almost 10 years ago, is urging all parents to keep an eye on the young drivers in their care over the summer holidays. Brent Laurenson’s son Nathan was 18 when he and his best mate Udo Fourie died from injuries caused in a high speed crash just north of Wellington in 2009. They were passengers in a modified vehicle that was travelling at 140 km/hr when the driver lost control and crashed into an oncoming vehicle. While teenagers needed to weigh up the risks before

jumping in any vehicle, Brent says parents and caregivers need to constantly reinforce road safety messages and model safe driving behaviour. “Parents need to keep asking those questions: ‘who’s giving you a lift?’, ‘who’s driving tonight?’, ‘are they fully licenced?’,” Brent says. “It’s never going to stop them 100%, but it reinforces that message and hopefully keeps them thinking and shows you care. “New Zealand parents are not good at keeping on top of those hard questions, it’s not until tragedy hits you that you

realise just how important those questions are.” Brent has shared the experience of losing his son with thousands of New Zealand teenagers in a project called The Ripple Effect. The raw and emotional presentation is aimed at young drivers and passengers, showing the impact a bad decision can have on a victim’s family, friends and community. “You never get over it, you just learn to live with it, our lives changed forever that day, but somehow we kept going on.”

Get everyone home this summer wiShiNG ALL oUR cLieNTS A meRRY chRiSTmAS We will be closed from midday 21st December and reopening 9am, 14 January, 2019.

Showhome & office

Endeavour Homes

1 corsair crescent, Blenheim

Ph 03 579 2282 www.endeavourhomesmarlborough.co.nz

Drive Safe, lose speed, take it easy. No fuss, no rush, no stress.

Friday December 14, 2018

Hardy-Jones Clark L aW y E r S – N o ta r y P u B L i C

> The team at Gascoigne Wicks wish all clients a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. > We will be closing from 4.00pm Friday 21 December 2018, opening 8.30am Monday 14 January 2019.

We wish you a safe and happy festive season. We are closing on Friday 21 December at 5pm and reopening on Wednesday 9 January at 8.30am.

May all our customers have a Merry Christmas and a fantastic New Year! Open 11.30am til late 7 days Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Open 4pm 1st Jan ’19. “Proud to be serving true southern hospitality to locals and visitors to Blenheim”

03 578 5339 76 High Street, Blenheim

www.alehouseblenheim.co.nz

Email reception@hjc.co.nz www.hjc.co.nz

Merry Christmas to all our customers you’re good to go.

Our festive season details are:

Thank you to all our clients and wishing you a very merry Christmas. We are closed Stats and Mon 24 & Mon 31st December Off Dodson Street, Blenheim Open: 7.30am-5pm Monday - Friday 8am -12.30pm Saturday • Ph (03) 577 9942 •

24 Dec 25 & 26 Dec 27-31 Dec 1 & 2 Jan 3 Jan onwards

Wishing you all a Happy & Safe Holiday Season

OPEN CLOSED OPEN CLOSED OPEN

Have a safe and happy holiday season

Open daily until 5pm (Closed Christmas Day)

Juliet & the team at

79 Aerodrome Rd, Blenheim / www.omaka.org.nz

The Country Touch For Hair Service. No Compromise. Wishing all our clients a happy and safe festive season We are closed on the stat days & 29th Dec. but open on the days in between.

8 Nelson Street, Blenheim 03 578 6019

www.facebook.com/bearingsandaccessories

For all your residential and commercial paintinG needs

Steve & the team would like to say thanks to their valued clients and wish them a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Call Steve Get it done riGht! Find us on Facebook

Wishing all my clients a Merry Christmas and a safe, happy and prosperous New Year. Thank you for your loyalty over the past years. Coleen Bush 39 Green Lane, Omaka, Blenheim RD 2 03 578 5271 • 0275785271

email: steve@premierpainting.co.nz online: www.premierpainting.co.nz

Ph 0800 080096 or 021 264 8235 For a Free, no-obligation quote

Wishing all our clients a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Civil - Housing and sub divisions

Earthworks

Drainage

www.crafarcrouch.co.nz • Phone: Blenheim 578 3475 - Picton 573 6119

Friday December 14, 2018

BURNETTA HASWELL

Styling Boutique Boutique Styling Hairdressing

Wishing you a Merry Christmas Make up

Colour Draping

Would like to wish all our customers a Very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Styling

027 280 4272 www.burnettahaswell.co.nz

Merry ChristMas froM the teaM at CBD

Hours this holiday season are: Monday 24th Closed Monday 31st Tuesday 25th Closed Tuesday 1st Wednesday 26th Closed Wednesday 2nd Thursday 27th 9.30-1.30 Thursday 3rd Friday 28th 9.30-1.30 Friday 4th Saturday 29th 9.30-12.30 Saturday 5th Normal hours as of the Monday 7th.

Closed Closed Closed 9.30-1.30 9.30-1.30 9.30-12.30

24 Dec OPEN 25 Dec cLOSeD 26-31 Dec OPEN 1 & 2 Jan cLOSeD

Hairdressing | Make up | Colour Draping | Styling

3 Jan OnwarDS OPEN

027 280 4272 | www.burnettahaswell.co.nz

03 577 7300 The Forum Queen ST, Blenheim

Have a happy and safe festive season

Thank you for your support in creating the Thank you for your support ultimate salmon experience. Thank you for your support

Specialists in all aspects of

in creating in creating the the ultimate salmon experience. ultimate salmon experience.

May you and your loved ones Thank you forayour support have happy May you and your loved ones May you and your lovedand onessafe in creating the have aholiday happy and safe ultimate salmon have aexperience. happy and safe season!

• Radiators • Oil coolers • Heat exchangers • Inter coolers

holiday season! holiday season!

May you and your loved ones have a happy and safe holiday season!

Closed from 21Dec Re-opens 7 Jan.

Wishing everyone a safe and Merry Christmas 62 Leefield St Blenheim M. 027 362 4785 E. coreyandlis@yahoo.co.nz

44 Main St, Blenheim • Phone 578 8176 anytime

100% LocaL FamiLy Business 100% quaLiFied Ladies hairstyLists and BarBer

MERRY CHRISTMAS

"Wishing you all a Merry Christmas" 03 578 5958 25 Grove rd, mayFieLd

We close on December 21st and re-open January 14th



Paige, Jason and the team at Anderson Architectural Design wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year. Thank you to all of our valued clients for your support in 2018 and ANDERSON ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN we look forward to working with you in 2019.

ANDERSON ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN JJason a s o nAnderson Anderson Architectural designer

Architectural designer

P J a0s3o5n7 8A1n4 4d8e r s o n

Ph 03 578 1448 E P jason@aadesign.nz 0admin@aadesign.co.nz 3 578 1448 E M 0 27 823 7790 W www.aadesign.nz www.aadesign.nz W E jason@aadesign.nz A 10Arthur ArthurStreet, St, Blenheim A 10 Blenheim A r c0h2i 7t e 8c t2u3r a7l7 d9 e0s i g n e r M

W www.aadesign.nz

A 10 Arthur Street, Blenheim

Ph 021 126 2514 or 579 3147 simplyjoinery@rocketmail.com

Friday December 14, 2018

Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year Coralie Holdaway Marriage & Funeral Celebrant Grief Counselor Experienced, Relaxed, Friendly and Professional ph 021 136 6909 03 578 8064 coralie.celebrant@hotmail.com

ROCCO’S Italian

RESTAURANT

Authentic Italian Cuisine with pasta,

seafood, steaks, chicken dishes. Join us at Roccos for great family dining over the holiday season.

The Marlborough Bureau would like to wish all our clients a happy Christmas and a safe New Year. The Bureau will be closed from 4pm on Thursday 20 December 2018 and re open at 9.30am on Monday 7th January 2019

from Fabio, Carlo & staff. 5 Dodson St (next to Grove Park Motel) Blenheim: PH 578-6940 5 Dodson St (next to Grove Park Motel) Blenheim Ph 578 6940

We wish you a merry Christmas We wish to advise that our office closes 1pm on Wednesday 19th December and re-opens 10am on Monday 7th January.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and happy New Year

Happy holidays

Merry Christmas from the team at Dawson Aluminium.

Age Concern Marlborough 03 579 3457.

We will be closing Friday 21st at 12pm and re-opening on Monday 14th January. Burleigh Industrial Estate 32 New Renwick Road, Blenheim

Blair 027 618 8654 We would like to wish our customers, present, past and future a very Merry Christmas, thank you for all your support. To our team, we simply could not achieve what we do without you all. We hope you all enjoy a well-earned break and look forward to working together to reach new heights in 2019.

We are closed from Friday Dec 21st at midday and re-open Monday Jan 14th 20 Scott Street, Blenheim |03 579 4803 | 021 577 844 info@aphomes.co.nz | www.aphomes.co.nz

Merry Christmas and safe riding to all! from Marlborough Motorcycle Riding School. We will be closed from 24 December to 7 January. Learn to ride, Love to ride and if you’re not Loving it, i can heLp!

Phone 03 579 1000

from the team at Kiwi house inspections 24th Dec OPEN 25 & 26 Dec CLOSED 27-31 Dec OPEN 1 & 2 Jan CLOSED 3 Jan Onwards OPEN

Greg Cresswell

027 250 3221 | 0800 250 322 Email greg@kiwiinspections.co.nz

We would like to thank you for your support over 2018 and hope you have a fantastic Christmas and that the New Year ahead is one to remember

Two Agents Better Than One All the best from Shane & Kylie

Aaron Flowerday

027 440 7878

aaron.flowerday@harcourts.co.nz

Harcourts prides itself on Aaron and Whi exceptionally good market wish you all and is New Zealand’s full ser a verycovering all pric company Merry ranges. Harcourts prides itself on exceptionally good marketing Christmas andMarketing is New Zealand’s is fulleverything! service company covering all price Call usranges. today and a for a free, n Marketing is everything! obligation appraisal on yo Happy Call us today for a free, no home. obligation appraisal on your New Year. home.

Two Agents Better Than One Aaron Flowerday

027 440 7878

aaron.flowerday@harcourts.co.nz

Marlborough Real Estate 2008 Ltd Licenced Agent REAA 2008

Whiona Hapakuku Whiona Hapakuk 0275 666 501

0275 666 5

whiona.hapakuku@harcourts.co.nz

whiona.hapakuku@harcourts.c

Friday December 14, 2018

Merry Christmas Change the way you barbeque

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas.

Check us out on Facebook, for our Christmas hours

We will be closing Mid Day Friday 21st and re-open on 7th January.

03 578 0086

55 Grove Road, Blenheim • Phone: 578 5950

info@classicandcustom.co.nz | classicandcustom.co.nz | 3 Warwick Street

www.heatingmarlborough.co.nz

COME & ENJOY DELICIOUS SUNDAY BRUNCH WITH FRIENDS & FAMILY THIS CHRISTMAS EVE & NEW YEAR’S EVE Showcasing the freshest food in Marlborough with plenty of festive cheer. Don’t miss out on our raffle, or your last chance to buy berries before Christmas!

Cherry Christmas

EVERY SUNDAY, NINE TIL NOON A&P Showgrounds, Cnr Maxwell & Alabama Rds

Wishing all my clients a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Mike Walker MORTGAGES EMAIL: MIKE@MORTGAGESPECIALIST.CO.NZ

Merry Christmas to all our customers Kiwi Brunch & authentic Indian cuisine

Open 7 days from 10am - 9.30pm

Brunch 10am - 3pm • Snacks 3pm - 5.30pm • Dinner 5.30pm - 9.30pm

81 Cleghorn Street | Redwoodtown | ph 578 9404

Nick James Excavations

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Digger Hire and loads more...

68 Main Street • Phone: 021 933 203

email: nickthedigger@gmail.com | www.nickthedigger.co.nz

SALES@CUDDON.CO.NZ • 03 578 4299 • WWW.CUDDON.CO.NZ

Wishing everyone a safe and happy festive season, and a prosperous New Year. We will be closed from December 21st, re-opening on January 3rd

We are closing Monday 24th December and re-opening Monday 7th January. Ph: 578 1665 • 28 Alfred Street, Blenheim www.theskinclinic.co.nz

Friday December 14, 2018 Bruce Laurenson, Master of the Dunedin Lodge, presents a carton of teddy bears to Sue and Barb of Victim Support, Marlborough.

New Picton library popular

Care bears to help young trauma victims By Bill McElhinney South Island English Freemasons are celebrating their organisation’s 300th year by donating more than 10,000 teddy bears to emergency service groups working with children in traumatic situations. Up to 200 of the cute bears have been donated to Marlborough Emergency Services including the fire brigade and St John Ambulance. “These are a massive help for us,” Blenheim Volunteer Fire Brigade deputy chief fire officer Tony Nolan says. “It distracts young trauma victims, just takes the edge off, and allows us to get on with our job.” Dunedin Lodge grand master Dennis Jackson, who has moved to Blenheim,

presented the bears to the brigade, says last year the Grand Lodge of English Freemasons celebrated 300 years of service to communities worldwide since the formation of their Institution at a meeting in a small London ale house back in 1717. With support from the Irish Provincial Grand Lodge of New Zealand a charitable project was launched to mark this milestone, TLC – Teddies for Loving Care. “Donations of numerous cute, soft toy teddy bears to South-Island emergency services and groups working with children in traumatic situations, is continuing,” Dennis says. “The bears can be given to a child on the spot by a fireman or care-giver to help shift their focus away from

the accident or fire. It is a first step to recovery by providing a degree of comfort from the trauma or illness the child may be suffering from.” TLC Appeal chair Tony Mansfield said the idea for Freemasons to donate bears to children started about 15 years ago in Essex, England, when a Freemason’s wife became sick. “A couple were in the hospital emergency department and the wife had a really bad attack and they got really good care and they asked ‘what can we do for the staff of ED departments,’” he said. “And they came up with this idea.” It has since been picked up by Masonic fraternities across the world, beginning in New Zealand in November last year.

Xmas lights up Jason and Amy Vercoe have given a sneak peek of some of their Christmas lights display at their property at 10a Old Renwick Road. The couple has a back section property so the public can walk in and look around

The new Picton Library and Service Centre has been popular since it opened a year ago.

The new Picton Library and Service Centre opened its doors for the first time one year ago and 12 months on, is proving popular with booklovers, community groups and local schools. There has been a big increase in visitors and book loans, compared to the year before, District Libraries Manager Glenn Webster says. “Visitor numbers have increased by 61 per cent and loans are up 11 per cent, which is a fantastic result and shows that the service is being well used,” Glenn says. “After only one year of

operation the new Picton Library and Service Centre is already a runaway success,” Mayor John Leggett says. “The dramatic growth in visitor numbers is an outstanding achievement. Hats off to the library staff for their deserved success and to the many community organisations who are using the facilities.” From January to October 2018 there have been 514 bookings for use of the activities space and meeting rooms. Of those, 362 have been booked by community groups including Community Te Reo, Picton Knitters

and Spinners, Picton Flower Ladies and Picton Poets. Librar y programmes including Super Seniors, National Bee Month and Arthritis Awareness accounted for 129 of the bookings, while afterhours bookings totalled 23. Local schools have provided physical and digital displays, and the library and service centre has partnered with many local organisations, including Plunket, Picton Smart and Connected, Marlborough Book Festival and REAP Marlborough, to help to extend their programmes.

The Blenheim Community Patrol wishes to thank these sponsors for their support and assistance of our continuing success in the district

the lights and inflatables. There are select nights that these lights can be viewed. Tonight and tomorrow night (December 14-15) then from Friday, December 21-24. The time is 9.15pm - 11pm. If it's raining the display will not be up.

Bunnings, AMI Insurance , Mike Pero Real Estate , Taylor Road Neighbourhood Group, Blue Door, Training Solutions, Lion Foundation, Pelorus Trust , Redwood Trust, Marlborough District Council , Wadsco Automotive, Z Service Station and BB Signs

2000 Yamaha 90 Quad ................................. $1,700

2018 Kawasaki KXF450 ..... ONLY 20 HOURS $8,500

2018 Kawasaki ER650 ......................... WAS $11,995 ..................................................... NOW $10,995+ORC

2016 Can Am Commander .. SIDE BY SIDE $13,500

2018 Kawasaki Ninja EX650 ................ WAS $12,995 ..................................................... NOW $11,995+ORC

2018 Suzuki LTF300 King Quad ................. $9,995 2018 Kawasaki Mule 400 ........................... $13,400

2018 Kawasaki ZR900 .......................... WAS $15,795 ..................................................... NOW $14,200+ORC

2015 Can Am Outlander 500 MAX ............. $8,700

AEON Mini Kolt .................... FOR THE KIDS! $1,995

2005 Suzuki LTF300 King Quad ........... WAS $3,995 ............................................................... NOW $3,500

2002 Suzuki RM125.......................................$3,200 2006 Yamaha AG200....................NEAR NEW $2,995 2014 Suzuki DR200 Farm ............................ $2,995

Kawasaki KLX110 ......................................... $3995 Kawasaki KLX140 small wheel ................... $5295

PLUS we have a FULL RANGE of KIDS BIKES in stock! 53 Grove Road Ph 579 2500

Friday December 14, 2018

Big Day Out at Mayfield School By Megan Connolly As part of their end of term Positive Behaviour for Learning (PB) Big Day Out activity, the students at Mayfield School raced around four different jumping castles yesterday. The day celebrates and rewards all the

Kauri Caldwell getting ready to slide.

The girls from Nikau class wait in line for their turn.

Sage Hendrikz slides down to the finish line.

Hi, my name is Isaac Smart and I am an Audiologist at House of Hearing. I studied both Bachelors of Science and Masters of Audiology at the University of Canterbury and thoroughly enjoy working with people in the community. Outside of work, I enjoy photography and exploring the outdoors.

Katie Comer - Audiometrist Hi I am Katie, an Audiometrist for House of Hearing. Originally from Ireland; I studied in the UK & worked for the National Health Service before moving to New Zealand in 2018. The best part of my job is seeing the real life benefit our service brings to people in the community. Outside of work my hobbies include running & photography.

Jan Sutherland - Receptionist Hello I am Jan the Receptionist at House of Hearing in Blenheim. I love interacting with our lovely clients and I enjoy knowing that I am helping people with their hearing. Outside of work I love gardening, making time with family, relaxing & enjoying life as much as I can.

students didn’t find out until last week, much to their anticipation. Since the program started midway through last year, students have gotten to enjoy trips to the swimming pool, water slides, and movie days.

Zayne Chilvers and Kahurau Areweti pause after climbing to the top of the jumping castle.

Racing over the jumping castle is serious business for Luisa Tessa Foote poses during her turn to play on the Fuavia-Raj and Zayne Chilvers. jumping castle.

Meet the team at House of Hearing Blenheim Isaac Smart - NZAS Qualified Audiologist

hard work the students have done over the last term. “It works as a positive motivator,” deputy principal of Mayfield School, Dave Hicken says. Teachers had been hinting about what would be in store for Big Day Out, but

Special offers to get your hearing in top shape for the festive season

FREE $2000 premium upgrade!* Try a pair of hearing aids for FREE and if you buy before Christmas we’ll gift you a free upgrade. *Terms and conditions apply, valued up to $2000. Offer valid to 24th December 2018.

$20 Ear Wax Removal Limited spaces, booking by appointment. *Terms and conditions apply,. Offer valid to the 24 December 2018.

Call now 23 Henry Street Blenheim 03 579 5353

Friday December 14, 2018

A visit to see Santa

Four year old Olivia Frangi was so pleased to see Santa in The Forum that she gave him a hug.

minutes with

Christine Hutchison Ex nurse and Beauty Confidential owner.

gardening this week

Bouncing from Spring to Summer: By Wally Richards We may have started summer in the calendar world, but we are still bouncing from Spring weather to Autumn weather with a day or two of summer weather now and then. What has that meant for our gardens? Firstly with un-seasonal weather and no warm to hot, even temperatures, a number of insect pests have not got underway so far. Others that like this weather, such as aphids and whitefly, have really maxed out their populations. A reader friend of mine sent me this question and with a bit of tongue in cheek I replied. Here is the question: “Hey there, what organic compound can be used against aphids?.” My replies: 1/ Fatty acids from old fashioned yellow bar Sunlight soap. Lather up and spray. Beaks down their soft bodies. (Dish washing liquid does not work). 2/ Old fashioned but truly efficient, always available to 99% of population: Thumb and forefinger, place over aphid and squeeze. 3/ If Chinese, use chop sticks for above.

4/ When watering, blast them off plants with a jet of water. 5/ As plants grow taller then the original lower leaves will be the ones that are likely to have big populations of nymphs and adults. Check these. If there are lots of pests on the underside of the leaves remove from plant and seal in a plastic bag and dispose of. Spray the rest of the plant late in the day, under and over the foliage with Wallys Super Neem Tree oil at 5mls per litre of water with Wallys Super Pyrethrum added at 1 ml to 2 litres of spray. Repeat every few days till under control. Neem tree granules on the soil in root zone of plants helps also. This can be made more effective by watering or spraying over the granules some dissolved black strap molasses. About a tablespoon to a litre of water dissolved and sprayed over the granules and soil. This gives the plant some extra carbohydrates which allows the neem properties to trans-locate through the canopy. It also feeds the soil life which makes for more soil activity to the better-

ment of all. Garlic bulbs should be swelling prior to harvesting, but many will have damaged foliage as a result of rust. I think it is too late to carry on rust treatment but you should concentrate supplying carbohydrates to the plants by spraying the foliage (what is still green) regularly with the molasses solution. If you have unrefined sugar (not raw sugar as it is refined sugar coloured to fool you) try dark cane sugar, a tablespoon of that along with the tablespoon of molasses dissolved in some hot water and added to make a two litres of sugary mix. Use as a soil drench and spray and hopefully you will get some good sized bulbs and cloves. Unfortunately there are too many plant diseases and pests getting into New Zealand and causing havoc to our plants and food crops. It makes one wonder, as 50 odd years ago we did not have the supposed tight border security as today but then we did not see so many problems either. Cubits are a genus of plants

including cucumber, zucchini, watermelons, other melons, squash and pumpkins and in some types they are self fertile. In others they require pollination of the female flowers. The female flower will have the embryo fruit behind the petals the male does not. It certainly pays every day, in the morning to check the above plants that you are growing for female flowers. If found then look for a male flower (hopefully there are some) take a male flower off the vine/ plant and remove its petals. Then dab the stamen into the centre of the female flower to pollinate. This will ensure you get mature fruit. If not then the immature fruit will grow a bit then rot off. If there is a lack of sunlight you may have only male flowers and no females and later on females and no males. You can use the pollen from say a pumpkin to pollinate a zucchini or vice versa, though the fruit may not be exactly what you would expect under normal circumstances. Problems ring me at 0800 466464.

 If you could donate $1m to any charity who would you choose and why? Womens Refuge as family violence is such a problem in NZ.  When you have a bad day, what do you do to feel better? Take my Jack Russell for a walk by the river.  What’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever been? Pitlochrie in Scotland.  If you could only eat 3 foods for the rest of your life, what would they be? Fish, bread, chocolate.  What thing do you really wish you could buy right now? Buy my home outright, shift my mortgage.  What is the best or worst purchase you’ve ever made? Bassinet; to put my babies in. Not together.  Favourite programme currently watching? Any documentary.  What’s your favourite kind of dessert? I like cornies or rice bubbles with fruit and cream if I have dessert at all.

STUDIOS AND APARTMENTS

Available now from $175,000 Independent living in a beautiful environment • Superb outlook - Tastefully refurbished • Ground floor indoor/outdoor flow • Care packages to suit individual needs

Ashwood Park offers all the choices and amenities you could ever ask for in one convenient location. 118 - 130 Middle Renwick Road, Springlands | ph 03 577 9990 | ashwoodpark.co.nz

Friday December 14, 2018

what’s on in marlborough

Friday 14 Renwick Christmas Tree Festival: Come and view the beauty and delight of Christmas with your family and friends. A variety of Christmas trees decorated by community groups and businesses on display. 11am-9pm daily. On until December 24. Renwick Anglican Church Hall, 54 High Street, Renwick. Get Your Skates On: The perfect way to kick-start the Christmas school holidays and celebrate the festive season. With music, bubble machine and a whole lot of laughter, this is guaranteed to be a heap of fun for everyone. Skates, helmets and gloves are provided. Today and Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 10am-5pm. $2. Liz Davidson Place, corner Queen and Charles Street. Dancing Through The Decades: The Vanessa Bryant Studio Of Dance presents a fun-filled celebration of dance through the decades. From the glitzy 1920’s, through the rock n roll and disco eras to the favourite songs of today. A show not to be missed. Today and Saturday 6.30pm. Adults $22, children $15, under 5 years $5. Blenheim Musical Theatre, 81A Laking Road. Tickets available from Versatile Blenheim on Boyce Street. Limited tickets available, cash sales only. Sounds Like Fun Variety Concert: Come and have fun, door sales only. Adults $10, students/children $5. 7.30pm. Picton Little Theatre, Dublin Street, Picton. Marlborough Women’s Club: Every Friday, 2-4pm. Speakers, entertainment, outings and afternoon tea. 108 High Street, Blenheim. The Gallery Havelock: If you’re in the area drop by and check out all the artwork from Marlborough’s amazing artists. Open 10am-4pm, seven days a week. The Gallery Havelock, 60 Main Road, Havelock. The Diversion Gallery: Exhibition on show Nigel Brown, Organic Thinking II. A solo exhibition of striking new paintings exploring sustainability and social issues, centred on the kereru as motif. On until December 15. Open Wednesday to Saturday, 12-5pm. 10 London Quay, Picton. Marlborough Golf Club: Half price green-fees after 4pm every day. 74 Paynters Road. Heritage and Whaling Museum: A collection of 2000 items of Maori, whaling, maritime, heritage and textile displays. 10am-4pm daily, 9 London Quay, Picton. Marlborough Museum: Open 10am–4pm daily. Brayshaw Heritage Park, 26 Arthur Baker Place.

Saturday 15 Summer Muster Fun Day: A great big fun family day for all. With bouncy castles, water slides, sports demonstrations, PCT obstacle course, food, coffee cart, Mr Whippy and so much more. 10am-3pm. Port Marlborough Pavilion, Endeavour Park, Picton.

Tomorrow is Eastern States Speedway's final meeting for the year, so get your backside trackside and enjoy the club's programme of races. The BNT Automotive Remembrance Champs will be taking place as well as the Marlborough Saloon Open Champs. All classes will be racing including the sidecars. Gates open at 5pm and racing kicks off at 6pm. The next meeting won't be until January 19, 2019 so don't miss out on a great night of action. SpeedNut Photography. Kaipupu Point Cruise and Walk: Enjoy two hours on Kaipupu Point. Take a self-guided walk, enjoy a picnic and explore this beautiful island. Adults $11 and children $6. Two departure options 11.30am or 1.15pm. Today and Sunday, departing from Beachcomber Cruises, corner of London Quay and, Wellington St, Picton. Eastern States Speedway Christmas Meeting: Featuring the Remembrance Championships, Marlborough Saloon Champs and Sidecars. 6pm. $5-$25. Eastern State Speedway, Vintages Lane, Renwick. Summer Beer Fest: Marlborough’s Unique Summer Beer Fest is here. With live music from 41 South, The Sound Machine and Hyster!a. Plus a complimentary German buffet all evening. 3pm-10.30pm. R18, tickets $69, sorry no door sales. Dodson Street Beer Garden, 1 Dodson Street. Yealands Estate Marlborough Gallery: An exhibition of figurative art in mixed media. On until December 23. Opening hours 10.30am-4.30pm daily. Marlborough Arts Society, 204

High Street, Blenheim. Marlborough Artisan Market: Highlighting the best of Marlborough’s art, craft, food and produce. Pop on down every Saturday 9am1pm. The Quays, Riverside Park, Taylor River. Weather dependant. Millennium Public Art Gallery: Open Monday-Friday 10.30am4.30pm, weekends 1pm-4pm. Corner of Seymour Street and Alfred Street, koha appreciated. EcoWorld: EcoWorld Aquarium & Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, Picton Foreshore. Saturday & Sunday 9.30am-5.30pm. Redwood Market: 8.30am-12pm, Redwood Tavern car park. Plants, produce, cards, jewellery, flowers and hand crafts. Round’A’Mini Golf Picton: Picton Foreshore, 9am Saturday and Sunday. Gravel Grind Ride: Open to all, on every Saturday. 3pm, Bikefit Marlborough, 24 Market Street. Blenheim Rotary Car Boot Sale: Every Saturday 8am–12.30pm at the Railway Station car park, Grove Road. Vintage Farm Machinery: 10am-3pm, open every day. Brayshaw Park guided tours available, on Sun-

day Thomas Tank Engine rides are available. Blenheim Menz Shed: 4 Dillons Point Road. Open 9am-12pm Saturday and 1-4pm on Monday and Thursday. Picton Men’s Shed: “Where men can do what men do best” 9am-12pm and Wednesday 9am-4pm. 2 Market St. Picton. 5km Taylor River Fun Run: Free timed 5km run along the Taylor River, meet at the Amphitheatre, corner of High and Symons Streets, 8am every Saturday. Brooklyn Croquet Club: Whitehead Park off Brooklyn Drive. Play days are Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday at 1pm. Come and have a go.

Sunday 16 Christmas With St Peters: Experience Xmas on the beach with St Peters Church. 5pm. Waitaria, Kenepuru, Marlborough Sounds. Chess: Joocy Loocy Café, 35 Queen Street, 10am-1pm. Please bring your own board and pieces.

Blenheim Croquet Club: Come along and have a go. Every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. 1pm. Parker Street, Pollard Park. Marlborough Vintage Car Club Museum: A variety of unique and rare vehicles, motor bikes and paraphernalia on display. Every Sunday, 1pm. Brayshaw Heritage Park, 26 Arthur Baker Place. Kapa Haka: 1st & 3rd Sunday, 1pm - 3pm. All welcome. Senior Citizens Hall, High Street, Blenheim. The Edwin Fox Ship: Take the opportunity to visit the Edwin Fox Ship and Visitor Centre, and discover this gem of international history. Visitor Centre open daily from 9am. Dunbar Wharf, Picton Foreshore. Marlborough Farmers’ Market: Grab yourself a delicious brunch and fresh produce, with lots on offer. Every Sunday, 9am-noon. A&P Showgrounds corner of Maxwell and Alabama Road. Ulysses Club Ride: Ride to Ward or beyond for lunch. 11am departure from the south end of the Blenheim Railway Station. Also Thursday Group rides. Meet at Brayshaw Park carpark, 11am. Members and visitors welcome. Blenheim Riverside Railway: Train Departs from Brayshaw Park as follows; 1.15pm and 3.00pm to Omaka and return, 1.45pm to Beaver Station, Riverside Park, central Blenheim and return. Adults $10 Child $5 (Omaka $6 & $3). Cash only. Blenheim Roller Skating Club: College Park, Stephenson Street. Every Sunday 1-3pm. $5 for hire of skates or $2 if you have your own. Come along and have a go, all ages and skill levels welcome. Picton Rail & Sail: Open (subject to weather) Sundays, public holidays & everyday during school holidays. Picton Foreshore. Model Aero Club: ARA Wairau Valley 9am. Phone Murray 578 9199. Petanque: 10am Sunday and 1pm Wednesday, 65A Weld Street.

If you have an event email Susan at The Sun office@blenheimsun.co.nz

Classifieds Advertising Ph 03 577 7868

Sales Consultant

The Blenheim Sun newspaper is looking for a highly organised sales professional to join our successful team. For the right person we will consider full-time or part-time. Our sales consultants introduce businesses around our region to the benefits of advertising in our twice weekly publication. Working with our clients is a busy role but very rewarding, working alongside a fun team of individuals. This role requires: • Strong organisational and people skills • Drive, energy and motivation • A self-starter who can seek out opportunities • Building rapport and maintaining relationships • Achieving goals and targets This is an exciting position to work with a privately owned leading newspaper in a growth focussed media business. If you are looking for a new challenge in the new year, contact us via email today in confidence. Les Whiteside - Publisher Email: les@blenheimsun.co.nz

Situations Vacant

healthcare aSSIStaNt Fulltime position. If you enjoy working in a team environment and have a passion for the elderly, then we would like to hear from you. Please email facilitymanager@ashwoodpark.co.nz or call at reception for an application form. Applications close 18/12/2018

WednesdaySun

Sun

WANTED PERMANENT DELIVERERS

Blenheim & Renwick Areas

The

Blenheim Marlborough

Bethsaida RETIREMENT VILLAGE

CLEANER HEALTH CARE ASSISTANTS

We are undergoing a period of expansion and redevelopment at Bethsaida. Due to this we are requiring the services of a Cleaner (8am - 2pm) Sunday - Thursday. We are looking for a person who is reliable, careful, energetic, has Permanent casual shifts available an eye for detail and& enjoys working towardsare a common goal of providing the best care for our residents. for enthusiastic and committed We offer competitive remuneration, a comprehensive orientation health care assistants. and ongoing education.

Experience is preferred, but full training Please call at reception for an application form or email will be offered to suitable applicants. manager@bethsaida.co.nz Applications close December 17, 2018.

Please call at reception for an application form or email manager@bethsaida.co.nz

School students with parental / caregivers support. Also may suit semi-retired or retired persons. If this sounds like you please give us a call For more information phone Susan 5777 868

Christmas Masses in Marlborough Catholic Churches 2018

M A R L BOROUGH

VINEYARD OPERATORS PERMANENT OR PART TIME

We are looking for people who want an opportunity to be part of our passionate team where there is plenty of scope to reach your full potential. Work with us in a supportive environment where quality outcomes are our goal. You will get a variety of opportunities to share your skills and develop knowledge for a recognised career in vineyard operations. We are all about supporting our people, we recognise and reward experience, offer on-going practical skill-building opportunities where we place you in a role that matches your skills, training and aspirations.

Come to

Church

Dec 22: 4th Sunday of Advent 5pm at Blenheim

Dec 23: 4th Sunday of Advent 8am at Seddon 9am at Picton 9.30am at Kaikoura 10am at Blenheim 11am at Havelock 4pm at Havelock 6pm at Seddon/Ward 6pm at Blenheim 7.30pm at Kaikoura (Carols at 7pm) 9pm at Blenheim (Carols 8.30pm 9pm at Picton (Carols at 8.30pm)

t his Christmas

Dec 25: Christmas Day (Tues) 9am at Blenheim 9am at Picton 9.30am at Kaikoura

Dec 29: (Sat) 5pm at Blenheim

Dec 30: (Sun) 8am at Seddon 9am at Picton 9.30 at Kaikoura 10am at Blenheim 11am at Havelock

Jan 1: (Tues)

Restaurant We are looking for a Thai Chef with 5 years experience in Thai Cuisine For more info contact Benjamas 02102697374

Church

Dec 24: Christmas Eve (Mon)

The

Blenheim Marlborough

Friday December 14, 2018

9am at Picton 9.30am at Kaikoura 10am at Blenheim

Celebrate Christmas at St Luke’s, Spring Creek 23rd Dec 9.30am Breakfast Church in the hall

Christmas Eve 10.30pm

Nativity invites you to celebrate Christmas with us...... 76 Alfred Street 16th December 7pm A Christmas Service 9 Lessons & Carols Christmas Eve - Welcome Home 10.30pm Carols 11pm Midnight Communion Christmas Day 8am: Traditional Communion Service 10am: Family Christmas Celebration CH-7514122AA

Harvest Life Church - Christmas Reality at 22 Nelson Street, Blenheim.

Christmas Eve Multi-cultural Service at 7pm.

Traditional Carol Service With special lighting effects

Christmas Day 9.30am Celebrate Jesus Birthday with the family! Rev Victoria Askin. Communion

ALL WELCOME Ph 5796460 / 022 126 7885 f: St Lukes Parish Marlborough NZ

Celebrate with us - Tongan, Samoan, Korean, NZ and Nivan - music, dance and message. Family and children friendly. Supper to conclude - All welcome.

"Why did he come"

Seven essential steps for our salvation

December 22nd

Apply your practical knowledge and skills on a day-to-day basis; • Tractor and machinery operations • Spray applications

Join us from 11am at the corner of Percy and Arthur St

• Irrigation operations • Hands-on vineyard maintenance • Harvest operations Please apply via our website or call Delegat National Viticulture Office for an application form on (03) 572 6300, 1st Floor, Riverview House, 13 Alfred Street, Blenheim 7201.

WWW.DELEGAT.COM

Friday December 14, 2018

Classifieds Advertising Ph 03 577 7868 Public Notices MENZ Shed wheelbarrow raffle . 1st prize Janet, 2 nd p r i ze S u e , 3rd prize Susan. All winners have been contacted.

Holiday Closure Our office will be closed from 1.00pm, Friday 21st December and will re-open on Monday 14th January 2019 at 9.00am.

We wish everyone a safe and happy festive season.

Death Notice

60th Wedding Anniversary 18th December 1958 John Charles and Marion Catherine Moran Blenheim – Kaikoura

Laura Young and daughter Cassie bamding a kea.

Keep an eye out for the intelligent kea Have you seen a kea? Kea, endemic to New Zealand, are the world’s only parrot species living in alpine areas, so why have kea been seen locally in Waihopi Valley and Fairhall? Blenheim-based Dr Laura Young has worked with kea for 10 years, both during her doctorate at Canterbury University and in her roles at the Kea Conservation Trust and the Kea Sightings Database. Kea can travel more than a 100km in their explorations, so she is not surprised these highly intelligent birds make the occasional visit to town. Laura surmises they may have travelled down from Nelson Lakes where there is a kea stronghold. “Younger individuals probably head out on exploratory journeys in late summer; it is not unusual to find groups of juveniles at coastal townships such as Kaiteriteri and Okarito at certain times. “Most kea nests are found in forests – it’s true that they do spend significant time above treeline but it’s almost a misnomer to refer to them exclusively as alpine birds” Laura says. Her research also discovered these fascinating parrots play an important ecological role in spreading seeds from the fruit they eat, helping alpine plant dispersal and habitat recovery. Once widespread, kea numbers have declined and current esti-

mates are between 3000-7000 kea remaining. Much of this decline (at least 150,000 recorded individuals) can be attributed to a government bounty once provided to kea hunters, a policy based on kea’s reputation of attacking sheep. While kea now have full legal protection, their ground nesting habit makes them vulnerable to predation. In mast years, when beech seed fall increases and predator numbers climb rapidly, kea egg and chick survival can be devastated. A large mast event is predicted for the 2018/2019 season. Detailed knowledge of kea numbers and their locations is important for devising appropriate protection for them. To this end, Laura has been part of a team that developed a tool for a Kea Sightings Database, a citizen science initiative which allows people to easily report kea sightings. Laura says if you are just at home or out and about, keep an eye open for kea and file a report at www. keaconservation.co.nz/supportkea/kea-sightings/ . Kea are regarded as one of nature’s most intelligent and curious animals, a characteristic which leads them explore and play with new objects – sometimes being a nuisance and at other times quite humorous.

 House removals  Office relocations  Winz Quotes Available  Furniture removals No job too big or too small

027 0800558 223 3260 6632

WANTED PERMANENT DELIVERERS

Church Notice

Nativity Anglican Church

Blenheim & Renwick Areas

76 Alfred Street, Blenheim. All welcome to our services

School students with parental / caregivers support. Also may suit semi-retired or retired persons. If this sounds like you please give us a call

Sunday - 8am Traditional Eucharist Service Sunday -10am Family Service Sunday - 5.30pm Canvas Thursday - 10am Communion Service

Lighthouse Christian Fellowship Senior Citizens Hall, 166 High Street. Sundays 10 a.m. All welcome. 5785030.

For more information phone Susan 5777 868

For Sale XMAS Presents– thousands of items to choose from, gold necklaces, bracelets and diamond rings, crystal, china, NZ books and art, originals and cheaper prints. Many old wind up and battery operated toys, nic nacks and gift vouchers. JUST BROWSING, Battys Road. Open Monday to Saturday (03)5775402.

WANTED PERMANENT DELIVERERS

Blenheim & Renwick Areas

SOLID Neutral coloured three seater sofa bed. $150. Phone 0210540424. FIREWOOD. Blue Gum, wet. 3.6 cubic metres. Blenheim area, $250. Phone 02041066546.

School students with parental / caregivers support. Also may suit semi-retired or retired persons. If this sounds like you please give us a call

Public Notice

For more information phone Susan 5777 868

Will bunny stunning gorgeous locks, pretty boy. Day/nights, incalls/outcalls. Phone 021310487.

HEAGNEY, Ruth Mary (née O’Connor): Passed away peacefully on Wednesday December 12, 2018. Aged 90 years. Dearly loved mother and mother-in-law of Margaret, Annette and Ian, Peter and Sue, Tony, Kerian, Sharon, and Pat and Pam. Dearly loved Nana of Daniel (deceased), Chelsea, and Jamie; Thomas; Mickayla, Kyle, and Quinten; James, Matteo, Julius; Ryan, Abbie, and Matthew (deceased). Loved by all her great grandchildren. Messages may be sent to c/- 8 Liverpool Street, RD 4, Blenheim 7274. A funeral service for Ruth will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Maxwell Road at 12 noon on Saturday December 15, followed by private cremation at the Sowman Crematorium. Respectfully cared for by GEOFFREY T SOWMAN FDANZ Tel 03 578 4719

Death Notices GIBSON, Pauline Mae: December 6, 2018 MASON, Noeleen: December 5, 2018 McCABE, Dorothy Annabel: December 8, 2018 McKENZIE, Dugald Stanley: December 6, 2018 NICOL, Richard Hugh (Dick): December 6, 2018 SMITH, Wayne Mark (Smithy): December 4, 2018

Births This Week COWLEY, Amia-Reign Lucille Te-Akau December 12, 2018 DEACON, Fletcher Cohen December 10, 2018 SIOPE, Myer Maddison December 9, 2018

THINKING OF SELLING? Modern home with room to accommodate independent ‘Supergran’ $650,000 to $900,000 Lifestyle up to $650,000 Debbie Webster 03 578 3760 • 021 797 454 debbie.webster@mikepero.com

SMITH, Wayne Mark (Smithy): Passed away on Wednesday December 4 2018. Aged 61 years. Dearly loved son of Peter and the late Margarette Smith, and stepson of Faye. Loved brother of Gary, Carolyn, Declan, Jackie and Haydn, and stepbrother of Michelle and Kirk. Messages may be sent to the Smith Family, c/- PO Box 110, Blenheim 7240. A private family service was held on Friday December 7. Respectfully cared for by GEOFFREY T SOWMAN FDANZ Tel 03 578 4719

Mike Pero Real Estate Ltd. Licensed REAA (2008)

Garage sale 21 PARKER STREET. Household goods and furniture. 8am start, not before.

sport

Friday December 14, 2018

sports talk With Jacob Page

That schoolboy rugby debate blow up The high school rugby player poaching scenario has been a powder keg waiting to explode for a long time. Auckland’s St Kentigern College will now be the scape goats for this. If you watched any first XV rugby game anywhere in the country, rest assured there were players there playing purely for their on-field abilities. Whether it’s players changing schools in their own regions or

players coming from overseas, nearly every school I can think of has enticed schoolboy prospects to play for their school usually under the guise of a scholarship. I attended Marlborough Boys’ College during 2003 - 2007 and it was abundantly clear as a student, a lot of the school’s public persona and success was wrapped up around how the first XV was going in the Crusaders region secondary school competition.

Secondary schoolboy rugby is a business. Success and failure really matters and the player poaching and the faux rugby scholarships has been part of the cycle. The dominance of New Zealand rugby comes down to two things, the strong national provincial competition which is unparalleled globally and the high standard of first XV rugby. Whatever happens with this saga

going forward could potentially hurt the professional game in this country. Top players in all sports have gone to bigger schools to further their sporting futures. I’ve seen it in basketball, tennis, hockey, cricket and rowing to name a few over my decade as a sports journalist. It’s simply families doing what’s best for their talented kids. But for every 10 of those instances

I’m sure there’s cases of player poaching. It just happens that rugby is this country’s most popular sport. The past week will have a number of high profile rugby schools on edge that they could be next in the firing line of accusations. That worst kept secret in secondary school sport, that constantly whispered issue of schools loading up their rugby teams has now become a public topic of debate.

Big field expected for sailing regatta Planning for the largest keelboat regatta south of Auckland is in full swing at Waikawa Boating Club. Sailed in five divisions, the regatta is once again supported by long-time sponsors Lawsons Dry Hills wine, 2019 being their twelfth consecutive year as lead sponsors of the regatta. “We are delighted to continue our sponsorship of this Regatta – something we’ve done for 12 years now,” group marketing manager Belinda Jackson says. “It’s a great local event that continues to grow and it also supports our wider sponsorship of Yachting New Zealand”. Entries from boats based in Nelson, Canterbury and Welling-

ton have already been received as well as a number of entries from the host club. With the regatta expected to attract a fleet of more than 60 boats across the divisions, the scene is set for action aplenty on the waters off Waikawa, commencing with the First National invitation race on Friday, January 11, and concluding on Sunday January 13. With over 100 boats contacted by the organisers already, feedback from skippers has been unanimously positive as many of the visiting boats look to combine the regatta with a cruising holiday on the picturesque waters of Queen Charlotte Sound. “We tend to take for granted

They're off! The Division One start line in the 2018 Lawsons Dry Hills regatta.

the world-class cruising on our doorstep, the feedback from our visitors is a good reminder of that boats come to Waikawa for a variety of reasons and the fact that we are such an attractive destination certainly helps when we are making the calls to attract visiting boats,” regatta convenor, Juliet

Abbott, says. Over 300 sailors will take part in the event with more than half of them visiting from outside Marlborough. “The ongoing positive feedback we receive from visiting crew on the standard of club and marina facilities makes the regatta a popular

All the Golf results from Blenheim matches space you need

Results from recent matches played at the Blenheim Golf club. Nov. 29, mens stableford: Werner Pluss 38; Dave Lightfoot 36; Blue Arthur 36; Brian Brown 36; Morgan Bowe 36; Ross Agnew 36; John Rewi 36; David Waters 35;p Murray Ingram 34. Nine hole stableford: George Mitchinson 22;

Spot Saul 22. Nov. 30, 9 hole twilight stableford: Graham Kerrigan 20; Ian Hatcher 20; Warren Ingram 19; Brian Brown 18; Mike Gardiner 18; Leo Hawkins 17; Bernice Arnold 16; Clive Drummond 16; Ian Bridgen 16. Dec. 1, monthly medal gross:

All the space you need

Tere Poa 71. Nett: Graham Kerrigan 61; Brian Brown 64; Tere Poa 64; Clive Drummond 65; Lord Wolfe 66; Clive Aitchison 67; Jim Findlay 67; Trent Davies 67; Lord James 68; Ron Adams 68. NTP 6/15: Clive Drummond. 9/18 NTP for 2: Clive Drummond. Dec. 3, 9 hole stableford men:Les

Garages

Boniface 21; Paddy Couchman 21; Brian Brown 20; Ian Hatcher 20; Hay Montgomery 19; Bob Tapp 19; Barry Ellis 18; Allan Knight 18; Don Gray 18; Ian Clark 18. Women: Trees Rewi 19; Jenny Evans 18; Margaret Roberts 18; Lyn Naysmith 17; Denise Hodson 17; Bernice Arnold 15; Shirley

Farm Buildings

choice for many returning sailors,” club development officer Duncan Mackenzie says. With daily courses dependent on wind direction, the regatta is an engaging spectacle with Karaka Point an easily accessible vantage point for the on-the-water activities.

Godsiff 15. Dec. 5, women’s 2nd stableford: 1st, Sa-nga Grupp 36; 2nd, Jenny Evans 32; 3rd, Trees Rewi and Yvonne Hore 31. Coming events: Saturday, Christmas treats - three person ambrose. Dress up in your Christmas outfit, 11.30am tee off.

Carports

A solution for every situation. From garages to farm buildings and everything in between, we’ve got the perfect solution for you. Call in and see David and Cristina at 11 Boyce Street, Springlands, Blenheim 03 5777 212

0800 VERSATILE versatile.co.nz

Sleepouts

Friday December 14, 2018

MERRY CHRISTMAS

MARLBOROUGH THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT THIS YEAR

Come to us for the right advice • Splashbacks • Mirrors • Cat doors • Frameless Glass Showers • Thermotech Retro-fit Double Glazing • Planitherm Low-E Glass Double Glazing • Broken Window Repairs • Windscreen Replacements • Automotive Glass Tinting • Onsite stone chip repairs

24 hour service When experience counts call us Your trusted local glass company for 34 years When experience counts talk to the expertss

P: 578 0850 47 Grove Rd, Blenheim www.viridianglass.co.nz