25 August Blenheim Sun

WednesdaySun The

Blenheim Marlborough

August 25, 2021

Sun Weather

Today 6-17

Thursday 10-17

Friday 8-16

for Today Saturday 6-14 Outlook Fine. Northwesterlies.

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Lockdown!

A once bustling Blenheim CBD is now quiet and deserted since the two-week national Lockdown 4 commenced at midnight Wednesday a week ago.

The odd car might be seen occasionally but for the most part, Marlborough has heeded the Government’s Alert Level four restrictions to stay home.

Last Wednesday’s announcement from the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Health saw New Zealand’s number of confirmed Coronavirus new variant DELTA cases climb to 148, with 138 cases in the Auckland region and 10 in Wellington and more than 14,000 contacts have been identified as of yesterday.

Auckland will stay in Lockdown

4 until the end of August, but experts say this will probably continue.

The South Island and Marlborough at this stage have no cases, but can count themselves lucky as a number of South Islanders were in Auckland when the out break occurred.

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The Sun

Wednesday August 25, 2021

How to reach us

Book your appointments now for the vaccine

Publishers

We have thousands of appointments available in the next week at Stadium 2000 centre in Blenheim, that is the message from NMDHB. The Stadium 2000 centre is safe, big enough to allow for physical distancing and there is lots of parking.

It’s ok to travel within your district to your appointment in Blenheim.

You can book an appointment time earlier than you would at one of the smaller locations. For example, if you live in Picton, travel to Blenheim.

Les Whiteside

les@blenheimsun.co.nz

Katrina Whiteside katrina@blenheimsun.co.nz

Telephone

(03) 5777-868 E-mail

news@blenheimsun.co.nz Advertising: simon@blenheimsun.co.nz

Address 72 High St, Blenheim P.O.Box 634 Blenheim www.blenheimsun.co.nz

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OFFICE HOURS Monday - Thursday 9am - 4.30pm The Sun 18,535 copies.

The largest circulating newspaper in Marlborough.

Booking online is easy. Go to Book My Vaccine to book now, change your appointment, book for someone else and more: www.BookMyVaccine.nz If it’s your turn for a vaccine you can also bring your 12-15 year olds with you for their vaccine, when you have an appointment at Stadium 2000.

For people aged 30-39 We are offering the vaccine to people aged 30-39 in the Marlborough region ahead of the national roll-out schedule. If you are 30-39,

use the code we texted or emailed you this weekend when you book online or phone 0800 28 29 26. If you didn’t get a text or email and are aged 30-39 call 0800 28 29 26 and the booking team will be able to get you an appointment.

For essential workers aged younger than 30.

Essential workers are now in Group 2, so you can book your vaccine online (using group 2 as category) or by phoning the 0800 number and declaring themselves as a Group 2 worker.

The definition of essential worker is people who work in: Supermarkets and dairies; Petrol stations; Licensing trusts; Pharmacies; Food banks; Self-service laundries; Hardware and DIY stores; Accommodation services; Passenger services (including public transport services) provided by means of road, rail, air, or sea; School hostel; Social and community-based services provided to support persons to maintain critical well-being, or as crisis support for people who are unsafe or homeless.

Wither Hills Farm Park open except for Mountain Bike Park Walking is permitted on all tracks in the Wither Hills Farm Park under lockdown Level 4.

The mountain bike park is closed.

Biking can take place on the lower-risk, bike-designated trails only, outside the mountain bike park area.

Marlborough District Council closely follows the Government’s Covid-19 guidance, which seeks to minimise the risk of injuries resulting in emergency callouts that compromise our emergency and health services, hence the closure of the mountain bike

park.

The Government’s advice under Level 4 is that people should stay home or stay local, within a few kilometres of home. Do not drive to a place of recreation or travel beyond your immediate neighbourhood.

The guidance is: You can go for a walk, run or bike ride in your local area If you do, it must be on your own or with your household bubble – no gathering or meeting with those outside of your bubble You must keep 2 metres’ dis-

tance from others when leaving your home for exercise.

You are encouraged to wear a face covering when leaving your home where possible, and you must wear a mask when visiting essential services (supermarkets, pharmacies and service stations).

If you are unwell, stay home and call your doctor or Healthline on 0800 358 5453 for advice about getting tested.

For further information go to https://sportnz.org.nz/resources/ play-active-recreation-and-sportat-alert-level-4/

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The Sun

Wednesday August 25, 2021

Shirley and Graeme Hawtin honoured by Mitre 10

By Jacob Page

Graeme and Shirley Hawtin’s 46-year association with Mitre 10 has been recognised with them being inducted into the company’s Hall of Fame in Auckland, last week.

The honour was unveiled at an event at Auckland’s Spark Arena in front of 850 people.

The couple joined Mitre 10 in 1975, a year after it was formed.

They were the sixth store in New Zealand and the second in the South Island.

“It was a huge surprise,” Graeme says. “I’d never given it a thought that we’d be in the Hall of Fame.

“Both of us were honoured but not something we expected.”

Graeme commenced work with HWB when he left high school in 1956.

He became General Manager when he was 30.

Smiths City bought out HWB in 1984 and because they were a public company, Mitre 10 had to be relinquished.

Graeme and Shirley purchased the company from Smiths City in 1991 and traded as The Home Centre Ltd for 12 months before Mitre 10 approached them to rejoin their company.

Graeme says the Mega model has proven to be a successful choice.

“The time was right to go to larger stores.

“Big stores overseas were very

3

inbrief

The Sun

Pheasant attacks Three pheasants have been killed following a spate of attacks on walkers at the Wither Hills Farm Park, in south Blenheim.

The Marlborough District Council made a decision to euthanise the birds after receiving several complaints that a male pheasant was being aggressive towards park users, on one instance even making one walker’s leg bleed.

It found where the offending bird was and hired a licenced contractor to “control” it and two other pheasants.

Stormwater pump replaced A stormwater pump that “drowned” during last month’s flooding needs to be replaced.

The pump at Blind Creek, in Tuamarina, was completely destroyed after the Wairau River spilled over its stopbanks, submerging it in floodwaters.

A report handed to the Marlborough District Council at last week’s assets and services meeting said the pump, its motor, electrical cabinet, house and switchboard each took on damage.

None of the electrical equipment was able to be reused, councillors were told.

“A major overhaul of this pump station will be required to return it to service.”

Shirley and Graeme Hawtin receiving their ‘Hall of Fame’ award in Auckland.

successful and our CEO at the time saw it as the future and he was right.

“We’ve made lifelong friends from customers, staff, suppliers and people in the organisation and a lot of that adds to the

enjoyment we have had.

Their son David is the current manager of the Mitre 10 Mega on Alabama Road while Graeme remains as a director of the company.

“Having David take over from

us makes us very happy and perhaps one day his son or daughters will take it over.

“We are also very proud to be active in our community with things like supporting Life Flight Trust,” Graeme says.

news Tips Send your tips to news@blenheimsun.co.nz

Wednesday 72 High St, Ph 03 577 7868

4

The Sun

Wednesday August 25, 2021

Delta variant a different beast

By Chloe Ranford

Marlborough began bracing for a coronavirus resurgence the moment a highly infectious strain appeared in Australia.

The region’s civil defence team had mapped what would happen if the virus made a comeback in the community but tweaked

Secrecy slammed Kaikoura’s National MP Stuart Smith has fired a broadside at the Government about what he says is the total lack of information being provided to the Opposition about decisions on lockdown levels.

“And it happened last time as well,” he says.

He adds it is “extraordinary” that the Opposition has not been briefed on what informs the decision to lockdown the country “that is the science behind them”.

“What are they trying to hide?” he asks.

And he’s very critical that Parliament remains in recess, with the Government not being held to account.

If the AM Show and Breakfast are deemed essential and able to be filmed Parliament should be able to sit.

“If they are an essential industry, why not Parliament?” he asks.

plans after watching a new variant – called ‘Delta’ – wreak havoc on New Zealand’s nearest neighbour.

The variant was first discovered in India last October but quickly spread to other countries due to its fast transmission time.

It emerged in New Zealand this week, with the number of confirmed cases sitting at 31 on Friday.

Marlborough Civil Defence welfare manager Catherine Coates said the region’s original “resurgence plan” was written during New Zealand’s coronavirus lockdown last year – months before scientists discovered the Delta strain.

“The Delta variant is a different beast entirely.

We’ve adapted our plan to acknowledge that it’s a much more virulent strain than the previous one, and clarified some of the arrangements we made around welfare services,” she said.

If a case showed up in Marlborough, the Ministry of Health and the Nelson Marlborough District Health Board would call the shots, with civil defence teams from Marlborough and Nelson-Tasman working together to provide support.

Working together allowed the three neighbouring regions to have a consistent approach to their responsibilities, the same levels of service and, if required, share their resources.

Civil defence teams could help councils with community leadership, provide information to the public, co-ordinate emergency welfare services and resources, and deliver household goods to people that had no other alternatives.

Marlborough’s team kicked into action when New Zealand entered lockdown to stop the spread of the Delta variant, sending tents to the Community-Based Assessment Centre at Blenheim’s Horton Park and working with Te Tauihu (top of the south) iwi to deliver food parcels to whanau.

Marlborough had a ‘welfare group’ made

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Marlborough Civil Defence staff, from left, Catherine Coates and Brian Paton during last year's pandemic. CREDIT: CHLOE RANFORD/LDR

up of multiple organisations, like the Ministry of Social Development and the Marlborough District Council, that could step up and provide help to communities hit by a coronavirus outbreak.

“We encourage people to look at how they can adapt their usual practices to, say, shop.

Can your neighbour assist you? Can your family?

Can you shop online?” Coates said. “If there are no options available for you, that’s when [civil defence] can provide support.

But we’re not about making people dependent. We’re only in place for the emergency.”

Marlborough emergency services manager Brian Paton told the council that a confirmed case of coronavirus in Marlborough would

what’s cooking Ginger Fish Ingredients: • 500g firm white fish • 1 tablespoon cornflour • 1 2-inch piece ginger • 3 tablespoons coconut oil • 2 tablespoon chopped spring onions

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trigger a “much more urgent response” than it would in the past, due to the Delta variant.

Science had shown the variant was harder to contain than earlier versions of the virus and, once contracted, took longer to shake and was a greater health risk to individuals.

The civil defence team had already decided it would not ask its volunteers to transfer patients around the region, like it had last time.

The transfers had helped free up ambulances.

“It’s just too complex and too dangerous for untrained people. How St John manages [transfers] is going to be a challenge for them because ... it takes two to three hours to clean an ambulance after one of those trips,” Paton said.

The Sun

Wednesday August 25, 2021

Yealands Classic Fighters 2021 Cancelled Current Covid-19 environment incompatible with large scale events Blenheim, NZ: It is with great regret that we announce, that the Yealands Classic Fighters Airshow, scheduled to take place 3rd to the 5th of September, has been cancelled.

The recent outbreaks of the Delta variant in and around Auckland and most significantly, the recent Wellington cases, make it unlikely that the country will be in anything lower than Covid Alert Level 2.

This legislates a 100-person limit and therefore a large-scale event such as Yealands Classic Fighters cannot proceed, nor should it.

While we are extremely disappointed that the show cannot go on, we are pleased to advise that those who have purchased tickets to the September airshow will be given the option of a refund, or to have their tickets revalidated for Yealands Classic Fighters 7-9th April 2023.

We are currently working with our ticketing provider Humanitix to facilitate this and will be in contact with all ticketholders in due course.

Further updates will also be communicated

via our website and Facebook page.

This has been a tough journey that has, for some of us, consumed a large proportion of our waking hours for 2021.

That this will produce no tangible positive result for the community, for aviation, or for New Zealand, is disappointing to say the least, but along the way we have also expanded our resources to place us in a better position for running future events, once Covid is far behind us, so it has not been a total loss.

In the meantime, we extend our most sincere thanks to all those who have supported Yealands Classic Fighters.

Thank you to our amazing staff and volunteers, our sponsors and especially Yealands Wines, the many local businesses and of course our ticketholders.

To everyone, thank you so much for your enthusiasm and for your dedication to the fantastic heritage aviation event that is the Yealands Classic Fighters Airshow.

Keep safe New Zealand and we hope to see you in 2023!

5

, e v Li , e v Lo p o Sh l a c o L

Full Noise, a Yak-3 fighter, will be at the 2023 airshow.

Bride of the Year 2021 postponed Carol Taylor, organiser of the Beavertown Lions’ Bride of the Year Show 2021 says the Covid lockdown means the gala night has had to be postponed from its original date of Saturday August 28.

“But it’s definitely not cancelled,” she says, adding that a November date will be confirmed after the venue arrangements are finalised when lockdown is over.

The later date also means some good news.

Carol says brides who are married by the end of October 2021 – and their

bridesmaids – will now be able to enter.

When lockdown is over forms will be obtainable from Carol, on 021 399 649, or from the Sun newspaper office at 72 High Street. The entry fee remains at $15.

The same arrangements apply for tickets to the event, with those sold remaining valid. The cost is still $45.

And Carol adds some good news. The raffle of the perishables grocery basket and bouquet of chocolates has been drawn, with the winners being 551 and 653.

Support Marlborough businesses when they re-open, to keep our community alive

The Blenheim

NEWSPAPER

Wedne

6

The Sun

Wednesday August 25, 2021

Sun readers have their say... with the WORD from lockdown!

Q: What’s one thing you wish you could still do that you can’t while in lockdown?

Brendon Price Blenheim To catch up with all my friends. I’m sure they’ve both missed me!

Jamie Norton Blenheim Drinking coffee from a cafe and playing golf with mates

Jenny Andrews Blenheim To be able to celebrate our upcoming 50th wedding anniversary with family and friends.

A message from Dr Nick Baker, Chief Medical Officer, Nelson Marlborough Health Vaccination is your best protection against the Delta variant.

Being fully vaccinated gives you a high degree of protection against Delta infection, and an even higher degree of protection against severe illness, hospitalisation and death. Evidence currently shows the effectiveness of two doses of the Pfizer vaccine against illness due to Delta infection is about 88% and the protection against hospitalisation due to Delta infection about 96%.

However, no vaccine is 100% effective so there is some chance that a vaccinated

person may become infected with the Delta variant and may transmit the virus to other people.

This is why all the other precautions are critical to our chances of stopping this outbreak.

Fully vaccinated people still need to follow the Alert Level rules, seek advice if they start to feel unwell and wear a mask when they leave their bubble.

It’s really important that you go home to your bubble after a COVID-19 test and try and stay in your bubble until you have received a negative result.

Freedom and Happiness Photo by Bruno Cyrillo. A selection of Bruno's photographs will feature regularly, showcasing landscapes and happenings from our region.

For your next photography assignment contact Bruno brunocyrillo@hotmail.com • 021 141 4127

Bruno Cyrillo Blenheim I really would like to be out there, capturing the unique views of our beautiful Winter season here in Marlborough region.

Chris Greenhill Blenheim Be on the beach in Rarotonga for our friends 60th birthday celebrations.

Annie Gleeson Blenheim Wish I could visit and hug my friends who are going through hard life experiences quite apart from the pandemic restrictions.

Council concerned and will consult on Three Waters reforms The Government’s proposed new Three Waters service delivery entities is very significant and also very concerning, Marlborough Mayor John Leggett says.

“The Department of Internal Affairs has undertaken a large amount of work since commencing their investigation of the Three Waters sector several years ago. A new regulatory agency Taumata Arowai is already in place and will become the Three Waters regulatory body replacing the Ministry of Health.”

“Its focus will be on drinking water quality regulation and setting standards for storm and waste water discharges. The Government is also proposing that the delivery of drinking water, stormwater and wastewater will no longer be undertaken by New Zealand’s local authorities and is proposing four new largescale water service delivery entities which they believe will be able to deliver Three Waters services to higher standards at lower cost.”

The Council’s website now has a section dedicated to the Three Waters Reform Programme and contains the key information the Government has published so far. Go to www.marlborough.govt.nz/your-council/ three-waters-reform-proposals.

“The proposals are complex and a significant body of Government work must be considered for Council to form its own view. Council staff are currently undertaking that analysis at pace to inform councillors and the community about the details,” Mayor Leggett says.

“We met with Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta just before the LGNZ conference here in Blenheim to express our concern about the proposed boundary split between entities C and D falling within Marlborough.

No resolution has been proposed by the Government to date. We have also asked further, more technical questions of the Department of Internal Affairs about financial and levels of service projections to assist us.”

“On 16 September the Council will consider a full report on the water services entity proposals based on our knowledge at that date. Following that meeting a community engagement process will begin, subject to Covid-19 alert levels, and I hope that can

include community drop-ins and meetings with community groups, as well as further communications to residents.”

“No decisions are required of the Council during September but it’s important that our community is fully informed and the Government made aware of concerns. I am extremely worried about the complexity of the proposals and the lack of Government-led engagement to date.

This is putting a huge onus on councils. I believe Government decisions should not be rushed - the nation needs more time to fully understand the consequences of this major change in governance and delivery – it’s the Government’s plan and they need to explain it!”

“Earlier this week the Canterbury Mayoral Forum asked the Government to pause and wait for the review of local government functions to report back in October 2022 before making any final decisions on Three Waters entities. This pause would give the Government time to properly engage before Councils are required to make very far reaching decisions.”

The Government is expected to provide further details of the water service entity proposals in October 2021, including the legislative changes necessary to give effect to the new structures.

The Hon Nanaia Mahuta has consistently said that councils will be given an ‘opt-in’ or ‘opt-out’ decision opportunity.

“The Local Government Act and the Council’s own policy requires a Long Term Plan amendment and a special consultative process to make the opt-in or opt-out decision. Council can only make those decisions after full public consultation.”

“Some councils have already made a decision to opt-out and others are already consulting their communities. We will consult the community, but not until we fully understand the effects on Marlborough and can accurately communicate them.”

“Council owes it to the public to have the most up to date and accurate information possible to ensure a high quality engagement process and ultimately a good decision.”

The Sun

Wednesday August 25, 2021

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

Kindy’s wish for water granted Council has installed three new taps and a drinking fountain in Renwick’s Rousehill Reserve following a prompt from the children and staff of Renwick Kindergarten.

On a visit to the reserve last Monday, the children, who are self-appointed kaitiaki (guardians) of the reserve, were blown away to see the installation of the water supply since their last visit.

Mayor John Leggett and Mayoress Anne Best visited the reserve with the children when the drinking fountains and taps were revealed.

“The children were absolutely thrilled to discover their water wish had been granted and it was fantastic to see,” Mayor Leggett said.

“The letters and drawings sent to the Council from the children asking for water, toilets and rubbish bins, really got the ball rolling.

It’s great that we have been able to deliver on their request given all the work the staff, children and Renwick community has put in to make the reserve a better place for everyone to visit and enjoy,” he said.

“I’m also told a revamped play area is on the cards for the reserve, so watch this space.”

Head teacher Sarah Greenslade said the school took ownership of the reserve seven years ago, cleaning up the area and planting seedlings and trees.

“We began planting kowhai trees and flax to feed the tui and encourage bird life but then we decided we needed to go bigger than that, so we thought we could feed the community by planting fruit trees.”

Lockdown closes Council facilities; essential services continue

Renwick Kindergarten students, with Mayor John Leggett and Mayoress Anne Best, turn on the taps for the first time at Renwick’s Rousehill Reserve “It’s about sustainability. We’re teaching the children to be little warriors for the future,” she said.

Environment grants closing soon Applications are closing on 31 August for the Working for Nature/Mahi mo te Taiao grant scheme to protect and restore native habitats across Marlborough. This annual grant scheme has $90,000 available this year for eligible projects, such as pest control or restoring wetland margins.

Applications can be made via the Council website. Eligible applicants are landowners, businesses and community organisations and projects can take place on public, private or Maori-owned land. This scheme considers projects that would have fallen under the previous Tui to Town and Greening Marlborough programmes.

Funds are allocated between two subcategories, Habitat Marlborough and Protecting Marlborough. Successful restoration projects under Habitat Marlborough will focus on planting areas where there is little native vegetation, as well as waterway and wetland margins. Projects under Protecting Marlborough will control animal

Most of the Council’s public facilities are closed in response to the Level 4 lockdown.

This includes Council offices in Blenheim and Picton, the Marlborough District Library in Blenheim, the Picton Library and Stadium 2000’s swimming pools and gym.

For help with a Council service please call our Customer Service Centre on Ph: 03 520 7400 or go online to: www.marlborough. govt.nz All information on Council services and Covid-19 is available at: www.marlborough. govt.nz/civil-defenceemergency-management/covid19-novel-coronavirus Waste and recycling Council’s kerbside waste collections continue as normal.

The Resource Recovery Centre in Blenheim is open but physical distancing applies. The Reuse Centre and Greenwaste site is closed.

Bus services Off-peak bus services in Blenheim, Picton and Renwick continue to operate but the service is for essential workers and essential travel only.

Parks, reserves and playgrounds All playgrounds are closed under the Government’s direction because hard surfaces like swings and climbing frames could harbour the Covid-19 virus. All public toilets in Marlborough are closed under Level 4.

Council is following Government guidelines with the Wither Hills and Victoria Domain mountain bike parks closed under Level

and plant pests, which are threatening native wildlife and habitats. The maximum for a Habitat Marlborough project is $10,000 and Protecting Marlborough is $15,000.

Please visit: www.marlborough.govt.nz for more details. Applications close at 5.00 pm on 31 August with all applicants notified by October.

Abandoned vessel – owner sought The Harbourmaster is seeking the owner of the yacht pictured. It appears to have been abandoned on mooring 2411 in Oyster Bay. This yacht is now in the possession of the Harbourmaster. If it remains unclaimed for 30 days it may be sold or destroyed.

Please contact the Harbourmaster’s office on Ph: 03 520 7400 if you have any information relating to this yacht.

www.marlborough.govt.nz

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

4. This minimises the potential risk of injury to mountain bikers, which could result in emergency callouts, compromising our emergency services.

Walking the upper tracks of the Wither Hills and Victoria Domain, outside the mountain bike park, is permitted for those who live in the vicinity.

These are open areas with wide trails, allowing for two metre distancing. Biking can still take place on the easier, lower trails.

People should not be driving to the Wither Hills or Victoria Domain. Stay local for your exercise.

Essential Council functions are continuing and include: • Drinking water supply and effluent disposal • Waste management • Emergency management • Flood protection, environmental monitoring and harbour safety • Health compliance • Resource and building consents • Biosecurity - response to incursions • Support functions including IT, finance and customer services.

Many Council staff are able to work remotely from home.

Marlborough’s Civil Defence and Emergency Management function is active and ready to support any regional response to Covid-19, led by the Ministry of Health and NelsonMarlborough DHB. Please follow the Government and Ministry of Health’s advice at: www.covid19.govt.nz for the most up to date information.

7

8

Wednesday August 25, 2021

The Sun

one on one with the Sun

Election brought unforeseen challenges Marlborough’s Mayor John Leggett may well, one day, look back on his term as Mayor with some disbelief at the challenges that have arisen.

“We’ve had it all,” he tells Sun journalist Glenise Dreaver out that in some places notably Awatere Valley and Sounds network where the roading had totally fallen away or been affected by slips.

“And we’ve got a rain event forecast this week which won’t help already saturated terrain.”

As if these challenges haven’t been enough, he says the Government’s Three Waters Reform proposal has also provided some thorny issues to grapple with. There has been, he says, frequent council discussion on the Government’s hugely contentious proposal to acquire and control all council water supply, stormwater and sewage disposal nationwide. “It’s been the biggest council agenda item this term.”

“And I’ve had a lot of e mails on this from members of our community.”

While there have been calls for a referendum, John puts it this way: “A referendum simply won’t cut it at this stage. We still don’t have all the details to enable meaningful public consultation.”

That said, he adds that he’s very, very conscious of the mood of the community. “My personal point of view is that the public has to be front and centre of any decision. So we will certainly be doing plenty of community engagement.”

He points out that MDC staff are compiling data to compare the Government’s estimates of the local situation with their own.

And he believes that the council has done “pretty well” in terms of their past investment in the network here.

Council’s meeting on September 16 will have a full agenda item dedicated to the Three Waters proposal and John says there will be a full picture of what it means for the community by the end of September.

“I just want to reassure our residents that we are all over this,” he says.

“We’ve had countless hours of looking at the Marlborough situation.”

But wait.

Of course there’s more.

There was already a plan of action in case of a Covid lockdown and, John says, it took just a couple of hours after the announcement for council teams to be set up for working remotely.

“We’re all over this one too,” he says, adding they have a “pretty dedicated” staff.

Two term MDC councillor John Leggett was elected to the mayoral role in 2016. “And two to three weeks later we had the Kaikōura earthquake.”

That brought the council challenges in terms of the need for quick responses around emergency management, infrastructure and welfare responsibilities for East Coast residents directly affected by the event.

The next leadership challenge came a few months out from the end of his first term, with the Christchurch mosque massacre on March 15 2019. “This community shared a sense of sorrow and grief with the rest of New Zealand,” he says, adding that there is a significant Muslim minority community here who call Marlborough home.

Nearly two years into his second term, John says there was really good news however. They have been elated by the success of the Local Government conference MDC hosted in July.

Some 700 delegates and elected representatives from councils around New Zealand attended with, he says, “amazingly positive comments about our region”.

But fate hadn’t finished with Mayor Leggett, who says he didn’t get a chance to celebrate that success.

Just as the conference was winding up, he found himself in a “surreal” situation.

“I was up at the Emergency Operation Centre being briefed just as the flood event was ramping up.”

Things progressed rapidly, so rapidly he says that some of the Nelson delegates were unable to travel home as they had planned due to the temporary closure of SH6.

While there was widespread damage over the following two days and continuing challenges for isolated communities, he’s grateful that the Wairau River flood control network held up, although there was some overtopping and minor breaches.. “That’s quite amazing and a credit to the investment made in maintaining and enhancing the network over many decades and the skill of our river engineers both past and present.

“But we’re on the road to recovery,” he says, adding that Marlborough Roads dedicated Recovery Team is doing excellent work on what was significant damage.

“This is not a quick fix though,” he adds, pointing

D E LL

E C N A FACTH E SEPT RS DA EMB Y W ER 3

RD

EEKE

- 5TH

ND

Mayor John Leggett with his canine campanions Bella left and Hugo just about to embark on there daily walk.

At the time of going to print, the Government will, he says, be looking at associated issues for RSE workers in the vineyards.

John feels that one of the saddest things about the lockdown locally has been the

cancellation of the Yealands Omaka Classic Fighters Airshow on September 3-5.

“That’s a massive blow.

“But they will be back for 2023. I know everybody will support them. And it will be fantastic.”

Wednesday August 25, 2021

9

Cancer Society Our Local

please Give generously

Hopes that community will again fill the gap for Cancer Society

By Glenise Dreaver

The Covid lockdown means the New Zealand Cancer Society’s iconic fundraising Daffodil Day on Friday August 27 has had to be cancelled.

It’s a blow to regional societies nationwide, as that f lagship fundraiser has for decades provided a big proportion of the costs of their administration and provides for the support of local cancer patients and their families.

Marlborough Cancer Society manager Felicity Spencer says that, over the four to five years from 2015-2019, they had raised between $70-$80,000 annually.

She says a cancellation means that over 100 volunteers and groups have to be contacted, including those who pick, bunch and distribute the flowers, and street collectors too.

But Daffodil Day has, she says, lots of parts to it.

“For example the Vintage Car Club at Brayshaw Park coordinates an amazing vehicle display,” she said, adding that they alone raised $15,000.

“That’s a huge contribution to our fundraising.”

The Blenheim South Rotary Club coordinate picking daffodils from farmers throughout the region, including the large daffodil planting at Marlborough Lines substation in Springlands that provides many fresh blooms for sale, either as buttonholes, bunches or bouquets.will Despite the 2020 cancellation, people had still gone out of their way to give generously through their online website and at their office she says.

While over time the Cancer Society has reduced the number of products they sell, volunteers had made daffodil-themed face masks and crafts for sale.

And online at www.theprintroom.nz/collections/cancer-so-

Daffodils in full bloom near the Springlands sub-station, ready for the now-cancelled Daffodil Day 2021. Next year...

Waiting for the right time…

By Glenise Dreaver

The Dick Frizzell-designed T shirts and hoodies that will help fill a funding gap for the Marlborough Cancer Society.

ciety, there is the chance to buy Dick Frizzell-designed ‘Daffy to Daffy’ t-shirts and hoodies.

“They’re iconic!” Felicity says.

“We have amazing volunteers,” she adds. “They use their skills in all kinds of ways and we are just so grateful that people continue to support us.”

You can donate to the Marlborough society by going into the new office at 76a Maxwell Road, or going on to the national website at www.daffodilday.org.nz.

As you make your donation, choose the Marlborough option to ensure your gift goes to the local society.

Cancer doesn’t stop, so we won’t either $24 helps provide transport to treatment.

Daffodil Day will be held in the form of online donations only.

Please donate generously at www.daffodilday.org.nz Or keep an eye out for other ways you can show your support and share hope for those in our community affected by cancer.

There are many thousands of daffodils around Picton and the Sounds that will remain unpicked this week, says local Cancer Society volunteer Margaret Frisken.

She and fellow organiser in the Picton area Ivette Cameron have sent out the group e mails to volunteers, the second year in a row they have had to call the major fundraiser off due to Covid.

The convivial hours spent picking, bunching, preparing the buttonholes, bunches and bouquets are all off.

But there will still be fundraising activity, Margaret says.

“When the time is right.”

“We’ll still do the raffles we have, for example.”

The Sun

10 Wednesday August 25, 2021

Cancer Society Our Local

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The Sun

Wednesday August 25, 2021 11

Cancer Society Our Local

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please Give generously

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The Sun

12 Wednesday August 25, 2021

Cancer Society Our Local

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The Sun

Wednesday August 25, 2021 13

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Marlborough Professionals Businesses urged to think insurance during uncertain times In uncertain times, businesses have had to be more resilient and aware of their needs when it comes to insurance.

Marlborough-based insurance specialist Wayne Wiffen has an office in Blenheim for leading New Zealand insurance brokerage and risk advisory firm, ICIB Limited.

He is part of a 40-strong team across New Zealand. ICIB has recently opened new offices in Marlborough, Nelson & Hawkes Bay, due to demand.

Wayne believes all businesses deserve to have their hard work, dedication and future protected, especially during these uncertain times.

He says many business owners are unsure what is the right way to go about that which is where he can step in to offer clarity around what can be a complex subject to navigate.

“We’re involved with a lot of professional services like consultants, advisors, construction contractors, manufacturing, engineers, the wine industry, and marine sectors .”

“With the pandemic causing ongoing disruptions in a variety of forms, many business owners across Marlborough and further afield are now asking their brokers

to help them address a variety of issues,” he says.

Wayne says people should plan for the unexpected so they are in the best position to future-proof their business.

ICIB products are specifically designed by, and for New Zealand businesses.

Wayne has more than 25 years of experience in the industry and has worked with clients through the COVID-19 pandemic, earthquakes, floods and everything in between.

“That experience and people who are qualified are hard to come by and that’s one of the things we are most proud of at ICIB, with most of our staff highly qualified, and achieving the very best in brokering services and claims outcomes.

“Every client & business has unique requirements, and they all need careful review.

“How insurance is crafted to each business’ liking is where the specialty comes in,” he says. People want to know they are dealing with a New Zealand business.”

ICIB has undergone a brand refresh and a new website where people can find out more.

They can do so by visiting www.icib.co.nz

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The Sun

14 Wednesday August 25, 2021

txt talk with The Sun THANKS! Big Thanks to all the supermarkets, dairies etc that remain open for our convenience, not to mention essential services

My thoughts

Different beast

I have just been wound up with comments telling Aucklanders to go back there. I have spent years in Auckland, Christchurch, Twizel, Nelson and back to my home town. Get real and get your heads out of the sand. Lights are the answer as you can’t see indication lights as the growth in the middle is high. We also need wheely bins, bags are getting harder to get out to the gate.

Lockdown again. I get it. Delta is a different beast and demands a different strategy. But I feel like there is some complacency out there this time round. Lots of people still moving about, out in public with no mask, etc. Come on people! We’ve seen what happens when Delta tales hold. This is not something we want to mess with. Stay safe, stay home, and let’s wait this out.

Power cuts

Cost way too high

Well it happening again. Power outages in winter. What’s going to happen in a few years when we all plug our electric cars in at once?

Just like successive governments bringing in all the immigrants without a thought to where we will house them. There will not be enough power to go around either.

Re: No to 3 Waters Our Council is providing clean healthy drinking water. Treated, I understand with UV light, not chemicals. The sewer systems are constantly assessed and upgraded. Flood control is a persistent issue but there has been huge input and development there starting way back in Catchment board days. Our council does not need to be persuaded by $s to buy into Three Waters.

Part time traffic lights Should motorists suggest which roundabout in Blenheim should have part-time traffic lights? Or should we all agree (those that want lights) that the railway station is the one? They are common in the UK and work very well. So at say 0330 the normal give way to your right applies but at peak times the lights would break up the traffic and give all four entrances a realistic chance to move. The times could be worked out by observation and could be 0700 to 1800 Mon to Sat and slightly different on Sunday. Those who suggest it could be confusing should realise that if you can’t tell the difference between a red light and a give way sign you shouldn’t be driving.

I didn’t know that Marlborough airport car park was owned and operated by Wilson car parks. I dropped my car off at 12.45pm on Monday afternoon, picked it up at 8.15pm on Tuesday evening and the bill was $24, what a bunch of thieves.

Churchill I agree with Judith Collins regarding Sir Winston Churchill. If it wasn’t for him and the yanks Jacinda and her colleges would be eating sour kraut and or fried rice. My family fought against people like Hitler. Get a life people.

New strategies Good businesses and owners think of new strategies and ways to progress through this pandemic. The difference between employees and employers, our 9-5 never ends. Ideas flowing and keeping locals in jobs where we can. Covid or no Covid.

Road work inconvenience I was going to drop off a sympathy card on Muller Road, heading down Redwood. Arrived at the given road, to find the left side closed, the right side open. My number the right. So I had to post it! With so many choices of places to post! It will now trek to Christchurch first then come back here. All to be delivered to Muller Rd. Ridiculous!

txt talk of the week

No confidence How can you have confidence in our Government? Zero planning for an incursion of Covid – which was utterly predictable given that most of the border workers and other front-line groups were allowed to be unvaccinated. Insufficient thrust to get everyone vaccinated – at least 8 months since Pfizer became available and just 20% have had the jab! NZ would not be in lockdown having its economy ruined if these obvious precautions had been taken.

Sort it once and for all Eight years in Blenheim and I have watched the saga on the river crossing by recycling centre, washed out, filled and repaired three times a year sometimes. Last week repaired again, today just put some pipes in, what a total waste of money. That’s right not yours!

Thank you A big shout out to the essential workers who are once again working hard while the rest of us lock down.

Supermarkets and Pharmacies especially. You guys are legends. Thank you!

We welcome your texts on 027 242 5266.

Limit to 70 words please.

We reserve the right to publish at our discretion. Please note the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Sun management.

Events cancelled Stars in your eyes The Stars in their Eyes show was better how they had it five or so years ago, as a dinner theatre show at the Convention Centre. Bring back that style!

What a great night. Well done organisers and contestants. No one could complain about the $89 ticket price after seeing that show.

Found Found a little girls pink Garmin Disney watch, top end of town I would like her to get it back.

Not hard to understand Amazes me how many people can’t understand what road closed means and even signs in flashing lights saying residents only. Many rural roads still have subsidence, slips, mud across the road on blind corners etc. Yet we still have firewood gatherers, groups of adventure bike riders and rubber neckers making unnecessary trips up valleys and many going way too fast for the conditions. Like the idiot in the ute with cage trailer who slid out nearly hitting three of us repairing fencing in front of our property. Until all this flood damage is sorted please think of others not just yourself!

Feeling for all the events postponed and cancelled now. Hard work by so many individuals that can’t come to fruition at this time but pat yourselves on the back regardless, for a job well done.

Clever About Aotearower, true, so clever an sooo funny, still laughing. Also snowman made on footpath in Charles St, terrific effort, gold medal for you.

Miles too soon to open borders Regards opening NZ borders as early as 2022.

Are the current powers that be not aware of the current situation and horrendous new outbreaks of the Covid19 pandemic? Including within our nearest neighbour’s borders. Makes one wonder if our current paliamentarians have quietly legalised the use of marijuana and succumbed to its disastrous side effects.

Time for compassion A time to step up and do the right thing. With some dubious exceptions/breaking of basic Covid 19 border entry rules, surely NZ can show compassion and allow as many of the displaced people of Afghanistan (particularly children and women) to take up NZ residency and citizenship. After all we are a nation made up entirely of immigrants or descendants of immigrants.

Got an important issue to share with Marlborough? Text your thoughts to 027 242 5266

Keep your eye on your game ... get noticed in The Sun Contact Simon, Katrina or Les today!

Wednesday Phone: 5777 868 • simon@blenheimsun.co.nz katrina@blenheimsun.co.nz • les@blenheimsun.co.nz

The Sun

5

Wednesday August 25, 2021 15

minutes with

Hardy vegetables and flowers can be planted out now; tender types leave till closer to Labor Weekend which is the traditional time for planting them.

Pru Adams Owner of Pru & Co & Café at the Vines Village  Are you a dog or cat person?

Both.  What did you want to be when you grew up?

A Shop keeper or Florist.  Not quite a hidden talent, but I’m very good at?

Not quite a hidden talent, but I’m very good at bringing joy to peoples day.  If you could donate $1m to any charity who would it be and why?

There are many but to name a couple - Westpac Rescue Chopper and SPCA.  My all-time favourite food is?

Feijoas.  The shop you can’t walk past is?

Wallace Cotton.

 What song is likely to get you on the dance floor?

Respect by Aretha Franklin.  Your dream weekend involves?

In the Marlborough Sounds relaxing and drinking Champagne with my nearest and dearest.  If you could meet anyone in history who would it be and why?

Robin Williams for his humour and compassion for the human race.  Favourite programme or series currently watching?

Outlander.  What’s one thing on your bucket list?

To swim with dolphins.

gardening this week August and it is all starting to happen: By Wally Richards Day light hours extending, spring bulbs start to flower, dormant roses and trees starting to move and the weather is fairly mild as it has been for most of the winter.

The increase in phone calls and emails from gardeners I am receiving also shows that the new season is now underway.

A word of caution though as you can never tell whether a cold snap will take place in the next couple of months or not. This means with warm loving plants dont plant out unless they are well prote’cted or in a glasshouse or similar.

I always like to get an early start with a tomato or two which should be available from garden shops about now and if you lose them there is not much lost, but if they are not damaged by late frosts then you have a very early start.

It is too early for cucumbers, pumpkins unless you are in a warmer region but you could germinate a few seeds on a heat pad and hold them in a glasshouse for later on.

Hardy vegetables and flowers can be planted out now; tender types leave till closer to Labor Weekend which is the traditional time for planting them.

Sprout and plant a few quick maturing seed potato varieties now so you beat the potato psylid before they establish in the warmer months.

An email from a lady this week about Dahlias read: Good morning

Wally Could you please tell me how to prepare my dahlias.

Every year they start flowering beautifully and then suddenly all the buds start to go rotten, or only open part way. Thank you; Edith My reply: I presume you lift the tubers?

The correct way to grow is not to plant the tuber but to layer them in a tray of sand or potting mix.

Once there are spouts up about 3 to 5 inches lift the tuber and par off the sprouts taking a bit of the tuber and the roots that have developed.

You plant these not the tuber.

So now you have fresh young plants and then throw away the possible diseased tubers.

If during the season the flowers start to get damaged then spray the plants and flowers with Condys Crystals and later on with Perkfection. See how that goes.

Planting the shoots is the best way to re-grow the dahlias and then throw away the old tubers.

If you have not lifted your dahlias then keep an eye on them and when they have produced new growths you can then lift them and do the above.

Freshen up the soil with blood & bone plus sheep manure pellets then plant some shoots that you have pared off the old tuber.

You will have better blooms and plants plus likely more dahlia plants

for planting in other areas or pop them into little pots and give them away.

Strawberries will be starting to move and so a two weekly spray of Mycorrcin can be started now.

This will increase the amount of fruit you pick during the season by 200 to 400% !

When the first fruit have formed then if you would like bigger juicier fruit apply a little of Wallys Secret Strawberry Food but not till you have a good show of fruit.

Under planting of containers is a good way to use as much growing space as possible.

On my 100 litre (cut in half 200 litre drums) that I am growing fruit trees in; I under plant them with parsley, silverbeet, radish, lettuce etc, why waste that space?

Leaves on stone fruit trees will be starting to emerge soon and then curly leaf will strike.

Start a 7 to 10 day spray program using a quarter a teaspoon of potassium permanganate per litre of water with 1 mil of Raingard added to each litre of spray.

Spray both foliage, trunk and soil.

While doing that also include your roses and garlic.

Plums that also have curling leaves later on is caused by the plum aphid attacking the baby leaves when they are starting to grow. Spray with Wallys Super Neem Oil with Raingard added every 14 days.

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118 - 130 Middle Renwick Road, Springlands | ph 03 577 9990 | ashwoodpark.co.nz

16

The Sun

Wednesday August 25, 2021

Trades and Services Air Conditioning

AIR CON SERVICE

THE HEAT PUMP, AIR CONDITIONING & VENTILATION SPECIALISTS

clean & service only

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Book online www.airify.co.nz

Concrete

Detailing

Carpet install & service

For all your home & business IT needs

$75

1 Freswick St, Blenheim Ph 578 0030 www.martella.co.nz

computers

Ph: (03) 577 9498 17 Kinross Street

sales@bpcomputers.co.nz

Driver Training

electrical

furniture

For all your electrical needs

NEw FuRNITuRE REPAIRS and RESTORATIONS

FOR ALL THINGS CONCRETE Complete Site Preparation and Excavation Services

RESIDENTIAL & RURAL Concrete Placing Driveways • Form Work Exposed Concrete Concrete Stamping Concrete Cutting Core Drilling

ExcEllEncE in AutomobilE DEtAiling • Professional Exterior & Interior Detailing • Upholstery Shampooing • Buffing & Polishing • Pick up & delivery

30+ Years in the Automotive Industry

Professional Driver Training Tailored To Suit Industry Requirements NZTA Approved C2 – 5 Course Driver Licence Endorsement Courses Forklift Training 25 McPherson Street Richmond, Nelson

We service all Commercial Kitchen & Laundry equipment.

Local agent for Starline Dishwashers.

Ph: 579 4445 www.cmelectrical.co.nz

027 334 4720 • 03 577 9238

Ph Aaron 027 256 0808 aaron@carspa.page carspa-detailing.com

www.training4you.co.nz info@training4you.co.nz

garage doors

Gasfitting

gates GATES

jeweller

Classic Gates

PhiliP Gibbison

GARAGE DOOR SYSTEMS

• Sectional Doors • Roller Doors • Tilt Doors • Commercial Doors • Gate Systems • Garage Door Openers 41 Grove Road BLENHEIM Ph 578 8251 info@dominatorblenheim.co.nz

PAINTing

FOR ALL YOUR PAINTING & DECORATING MARLBOROUGH’S ONLY DULUX ACCREDITED PAINTING TEAM RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL

Gas Appliance Installation & Servicing Gas Water Heating General Plumbing Maintenance Blocked Drain Cleaning CCTV Camera Inspections

021 445 489 www.pandk.org

03-544 4800

ENGINEERING MARLBOROUGH POWDERCOATING

See the experts for:

6 Nelson St, Blenheim

WHETHER YOU NEED GAS, DRAINAGE OR PLUMBING SERVICES, WE HAVE GOT YOU COVERED.

Call now to arrange an obligation-free quote

Ph 0800 080096 or 021 264 8235 steve@premierpainting.co.nz

Your Watch & Clock professional.

Quality repairs to all brands.

panel & paint YES We Repair Everyday Vehicles

Panel & Paint Approved Gold Repairer for Classic Cover Insurance • Panel and paint specialists • Plastic welding • Large and small repairs • Fully equipped paint booth • Touch-ups and full re-sprays • Insurance work

Ph 578 2595 Cleghorn St Redwood Village

03 578 0086

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

TREE CARE

PROMOTE

YOUR BUSINESS Advertise on the sun’s

Trades & services pAge

Call Steve today 03 577 6920 021 625 378

Jewellers

Ph/Fax 578 0374 a/h 021 838 550

Plumber

BLENHEIM TRUSTED PLUMBERS, GASFITTERS AND DRAINLAYERS

BeFoRe aFteR

For friendly efficient service call 0274 419 028 or 578 3312 www.uptonoaks.co.nz • 33 Hammerichs Rd, Blenheim

Sandblasting Powdercoating Gates, Fencing Furniture Pool Fences

CAll us todAy

577 7868 for detAils

Furniture & Kitchens Inbuilt Cabinetry Customised designs

Tree Removal Height Reduction Trimming/Thinning Branch Chipping Hedge Trimming Line Clearance Stump Grinding Mulch Supplies Fully Insured FREE QUOTES

Ph. 03 578 0083

(Lance) 021 361912 cts@xtra.co.nz

Advertising

Advertise your business & services in Marlborough’s best read newspaper Delivered into over 19,000 Marlborough homes every week.

Ask us about our fantastic cost effective packages that really work!

Ph 5777 868 simon@blenheimsun.co.nz katrina@blenheimsun.co.nz

Sun The

Blenheim Marlborough

The Sun

Classifieds Advertising Ph 03 577 7868

Sun Babies

Situations Vacant

Wednesday August 25, 2021 17 Public Notices HEATPUMP supply, service, install. Free quotes. Call now 0284052863

Clothing Alterations:

by Lynette Atkinson-Parker Age Concern Marlborough Inc is looking for new people to be part of our local governance board.

We are a registered charity looking for people with experience and knowledge, especially in these areas:

1 Main St, Blenheim hello@giftsisters.co.nz www.giftsisters.co.nz 022 622 9778

GIBBONS: Josh Philip Born August 5, 2021 Hospital Wairau

Excited to bring you this weeks Sun Babies

Mark, Kat and big sister Brooke are proud to announce the addition of Josh Philip Gibbons, born 5 August. Thanks to our families for all your support, Emma Barnett midwife and to the Wairau Paediatrics and maternity team. Photo provided.

Get 10% off when you use this coupon instore

HAD A BABY? Tell the rest of Blenheim for FREE.

Due to the hospital’s current restrictions our reporter is unable to visit. Please email your photo and details to babies@blenheimsun.co.nz

Wednesday

• Strategic planning • Fundraising and marketing • Financial management • Community health and welfare Age Concern is affiliated to Age Concern NZ Inc, and our role us to support older people in the community to ensure they are respected, supported, empowered, and valued.

We rely on grants, contracts, and donations to deliver our services.

Our board members meet monthly, usually for one to one and a half hours on a Thursday at 4pm. There are occasional extra meetings and some delegations.

The role is a voluntary one and in return for your contribution you will receive the satisfaction of helping your community and the friendship of like-minded people.

Please send a letter expressing your interest and a brief outline of your experience to: admin@ageconcernmarlb.org.nz

by September 01, 2021.

For your sewing requirements Phone 03 578 1010 or 027 578 1010 Quality Service Guaranteed

GOLD BUYERS Scrap gold Gold coins Gold medals Gold pocket watches Gold wrist watches Gold jewellery Broken or damaged gold Any Sterling Silver items

ph 0800 00 24 25 Eric Jackson Antique Buyers, PO Box 665, Picton

news tips Send your tips to news@blenheimsun.co.nz

Wednesday 72 High Street, Phone 03 577 7868

MARLBOROUGH DISTRICT COUNCIL

Environmental Planner Situations Vacant

Administration Officer Part Time Monday – Friday (26 hours) Including 2 full days and 2 days finishing at 4.30pm.

Due to our existing admin lady moving north we are looking for a new team member for our small team.

Duties include: • Orders • Payroll • Invoicing • Payments • PAYE • Commissions • Cellar door balancing • Banking as required • Petty cash returns • GST - preparation • Excise - preparation Whilst experience in the wine industry, including import/export would be an advantage all applications will be considered. Applicants must be resident in NZ, as this is a long term position.

If you enjoy working in a varied & challenging role then apply in writing with CV to: The Directors No 1 Family Estate, 169 Rapaura Road, RD3, Blenheim Email: sam@no1wine.nz Applications close August, 29, 2021

fact of the week Alaska has a longer coastline than all the other U.S. states combined.

Situations Vacant

Citizens Advice Bureau Marlborough

Permanent Part-time Coordinator 12 hours per week Seeking a coordinator who can support Citizens Advice Bureau Marlborough by assisting and empowering volunteers, promoting relationships, reporting and keeping records.

Tasks and Responsibilities • develop and maintain relationships with volunteers and the community • office administration including record keeping and reporting • liaise with other organizations • maintain a high degree of confidentiality and a professional manner Qualifications and Experience • experience as a Citizens Advice Volunteer would the helpful • understanding computer programs • experience of the Marlborough community A full job description is available by emailing chair.marlborough@cab.org.nz with your expression of interest.

Applications close Friday 3rd September.

As a Unitary Authority, Marlborough District Council (MDC) provides unique opportunities for their people to learn and grow across a wide range of functions. We value respect, professionalism and integrity in our people. Our Council is made up of a diverse workforce who pride themselves on making a difference in the community and working in a safe, healthy and collaborative workplace.

We have two Environmental Planner roles available and are looking for people with experienced in this field. Reporting to the Resource Consents Manager, this role will see you primarily responsible for processing a wide range of resource consents across multiple areas, to ensure development and activities within Marlborough are provided for in an environmentally sustainable manner. This includes: • Writing planning reports, providing evidence, and acting as an expert witness for Resource Consent hearings and the Environment Court; • Acting on behalf of Council to ensure that development adheres with statutory provisions and avoids, remedies or mitigates any adverse impact on the environment; • Responding to enquiries and correspondence from the public and relevant interest groups, and ensuring that they are provided with relevant information and education; • Undertaking site visits in determining consent applications; and • Actively engaging and collaborating with other departments and external stakeholders.

You will need: • A degree in Resource Management or relevant tertiary qualifications in Environmental Management; • Experience in processing both regional and district consents under the Resource Management Act 1991, and be able to demonstrate an expert knowledge and full proficiency in the application of local and national planning documents; • Experience in processing both limited and full notified applications through the submission, hearing, and decision phases, and experience in appearing and presenting at the Environment Court; • Current valid Driver’s License, preferably with manual driving capability, and will be provided with 4 wheel drive training to facilitate these visits; • Ideally you will also be an existing member of the New Zealand Planning Institute, or otherwise be eligible and willing to obtain NZPI membership; and • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills will be pivotal to your success. You will be skilled in navigating occasional difficult situations or discussions.

MDC offers competitive remuneration based on skills and experience. We also provide ongoing professional development opportunities.

Applications close at 5.00pm on 29 August 2021 Applications should be made online via the careers page www.marlborough.govt.nz/your-council/careers/current-vacancies where you will find full information on the vacancy and how to apply.

For further information you are welcome to contact Anna Eatherley (Manager Resource Consents) on anna.eatherley@marlborough.govt.nz.

www.marlborough.govt.nz www.marlborough.govt.nz

18

The Sun

Wednesday August 25, 2021

Death notices

URGENT services Urgent Care Centre: Wairau Hospital Grounds. Entry off Hospital Rd, Blenheim, 8am-8pm daily. Phone (03) 520 6377.

Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non urgent 579 4870.

After Hours Chemists: Springlands Pharmacy: Monday - Friday 8.30am 6pm, Saturday 9am - 5pm, Sunday and Public Holidays 10am - 5pm. Closed Christmas Day. Ph 578 2271.

Community Care Pharmacy: Within the Blenheim Warehouse, open 7 days 9am-8pm. Only closed Christmas Day. Lifeline Marlborough: 0800 543354, 24hr helpline.

Women’s Refuge and Sexual Violence Support Centre Marlborough: Crisis line number phone 0800 refuge or 03 5779939.

Victim Support: 0800 VICTIM (0800 842 846) Alcoholics Anonymous: 0800 AA WORKS - 0800 229 6757.

Citizens Advice Bureau: Free, friendly, confidential advice. Mon - Fri 9.30am 4pm. Phone 578 4272.

Wairau Hospital: Hospital Visiting Hours: Daily 11.30am-7.30pm, children under 12 may visit parents only.

Maternity Ward: 10am-noon, 4pm-7pm.

Children's Ward: Daily 10am-8pm. Visiting at all times is subject to the discretion of the nurse in charge of the ward.

Picton: Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non-urgent 579 4870.

Chemist: Picton Healthcare Pharmacy.

Ph 573 6420 Mon -Fri 8.30-5.30pm, Sat 9-2pm. Medical Centre Pharmacy, Ph 928 4265, Mon-Fri 8am-5.30pm

txt talk Got an important issue to share with Marlborough?

Text your thoughts to: 027 242 5266

GILMORE, Nessie Rae (Rae) (formerly Delany, née Andrews): Passed away peacefully in Blenheim on Thursday August 19, 2021. In her 96th year. Dearly loved wife of the late Bob and the late Frank. A very much loved mother and mother-in-law of Cathy and the late Jim, John and Irene, Jane and Bill, Fay and David, Lance and Bronwyn, Beth and Clive, Rex and Jodene; and stepmother of Colin and Bobbie, the late Ian and Carol, Kelvin and Nora, and Brenda and Terry. A much loved grandma and great-grandma.

Special thanks to the staff at Springlands Lifestyle Village for their loving care of Rae. Messages to Beth at 34 Elizabeth Street, Blenheim 7201. In accordance with Covid-19 restrictions, a private farewell will take place and a celebration of Rae’s life will be held at a future date to be advised.

ELLIOTT, Diana Gwenith: On Monday August 16, 2021 peacefully in her sleep at Aberleigh Village. In her 83rd year. Dearly loved wife and best friend of the late George. Treasured mother and mother-in-law of Robyn and Dennis Reid, Denise and the late Steve, and Noeline and Bruce Wilson. Loved nana of Justine, Stu and Dani, and Troy. Much-loved great nana of all her great grandchildren.

Messages may be sent to the Elliott Family, 2A Julian Street, Redwoodtown, Blenheim 7201. A very special thanks to the amazing caring and loving team at Aberleigh Village.

A private family service has been held. “Now sharing ice-cream with George”.

BIKES affordable recycled cycles also kindling and tools. Menz Shed, 4 Dillons Point Road ph 021 234 0057.

Visit us online at

blenheimsun.co.nz Public Notices

Ryan Lawnmowing Blenheim Renwick Picton Phone/Txt 022 322 6515

72 High Street, Phone 03 577 7868

BLENHEIM 65TH ANNUAL MACHINERY SALE Aerodrome Road, Omaka, Blenheim Thursday 2nd September 2021 at 9.30am

In Memoriam

Remember your lost loved one on their anniversary.

POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE Enquiries to: Morice Stratford - 027 434 4066 mstratford@pggwrightson.co.nz

The deadline is Monday 5.00pm. Please contact the Sun for further details.

72 High Street, Blenheim, email office@blenheimsun. co.nz or phone 577 7868.

PGG Wrightson Ltd is not liable if sale does not proceed or is altered due to Covid-19 restrictions or for any associated costs/loss.

Helping grow the country

Alastair & Emma Hebberd

Bringing you the

0800 546 570 www.shoneandshirley.co.nz 1

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Fill in the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9

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Across: 1. Usurer, 5. Palate, 10. Attacks, 11. Nuances, 12. Crater, 15. Senior, 16. Serious, 17. Teem, 18. Espy, 19. Welcome, 20. Rise, 22. Acts, 25. Ceiling, 27. Swathe, 28. Savant, 31. Sterile, 32. Ignoble, 33. Upbeat, 34. Errors.

Down: 2. Satiate, 3. Riches, 4. Rest, 5. Pang, 6. Leaves, 7. Tactics, 8. Faucet, 9. Astray, 13. Referee, 14. Piccolo, 15. Summons, 20.

Resist, 21. Shake-up, 23. Clamber, 24. Settee, 25. Choice, 26.

Garner, 29. Deft, 30. Bide.

Puzzles © The Puzzle Company www.thepuzzlecompany.co.nz

For Sale

Wednesday

Respectfully cared for by GEOFFREY T SOWMAN FDANZ Tel 03 578 4719

Last week

Stamp collections, coin collections, old toys, etc. Cash paid ph 021 138 8949

Send your tips to news@blenheimsun.co.nz

GILMORE, Nessie Rae (Rae) (formerly Delany, née Andrews): Passed away peacefully in Blenheim on Thursday August 19, 2021. In her 96th year. Dearly loved wife of the late Bob and the late Frank. A very much loved mother and mother-in-law of Cathy and the late Jim, John and Irene, Jane and Bill, Fay and David, Lance and Bronwyn, Beth and Clive, Rex and Jodene; and stepmother of Colin and Bobbie, the late Ian and Carol, Kelvin and Nora, and Brenda and Terry. A much loved grandma and great-grandma.

Special thanks to the staff at Springlands Lifestyle Village for their loving care of Rae. Messages to Beth at 34 Elizabeth Street, Blenheim 7201. In accordance with Covid-19 restrictions, a private farewell will take place and a celebration of Rae’s life will be held at a future date to be advised.

Down 2. Assessor (9) 3. Stadium (5) 4. Schedule (9) 5. Type in data (5) 6. Stained (9) 7. Dodge (5) 8. Betrayal against the state (7) 9. Exile (6) 15. Outing (9) 17. Batman or Spiderman, e.g.

(9) 18. Having relevance (9) 19. Gives up (7) 21. Chooses (6) 23. Smock (5) 24. Move (5) 26. Clank (5)

Wanted to Buy

news tips

Respectfully cared for by GEOFFREY T SOWMAN FDANZ Tel 03 578 4719

Quick crossword

Lighthouse Christian Fellowship Senior Citizens Hall, 172 High Street. Sundays 10 a.m.

All welcome. 5785030.

Respectfully cared for by GEOFFREY T SOWMAN FDANZ Tel 03 578 4719

Our family caring for yours Across 1. Let-down (14) 10. As a result (5) 11. Advantageous (9) 12. Al fresco (4-3) 13. Large arm muscle (7) 14. Name (5) 16. Deformed (9) 19. Inexpensive (colloq) (4,5) 20. Lament (5) 22. Stitches used to close a wound (7) 25. Lie back (7) 27. Vulnerable (9) 28. Skilled (5) 29. Rethink, change of heart (6,8)

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The Sun

sport

Wednesday August 25, 2021

19

sports talk With Jacob Page

Plenty of debate for Halberg Awards The Halberg Awards in 2022 will throw up some interesting selection dilemmas.

The Olympic success combined with the World Test Championship success of the Black Caps could make for some intriguing debates.

The Team of the Year category already looks congested.

Potentially the gold medal-winning men’s eight may have a slight advantage over the Black Caps but that is a toss of the coin.

The men’s eight is the blue riband event of rowing and the team were underdogs to claim gold which lends itself to the New Zealand sports psyche.

The Black Caps, based on pure population and passion for the sport should never beat India in cricket but their win in the World Test Championship final was a satisfying outcome but not a shock.

Kane Williamson’s men have been world-class for many years

and matched up well on paper against India in English conditions.

The fact it is New Zealand’s first world title in cricket after a series of close failures (2019 was a draw in my eyes), will conjure some votes I’m sure.

The Black Ferns women’s sevens deserve some thought too but their achievement lacks the same global impact as the rowing or the cricket.

The same could be said for Lisa

Carrington and Caitlin Regal with their K2 500m gold medal.

Sportswoman of the Year has to be Lisa Carrington, that should be a guarantee as things stand despite Emma Twigg’s heartwarming story behind her medal in the women’s single sculls.

The Sportsman of the Year is more wide open.

Does Williamson go close as Black Caps captain?

What about Hamish Bond as the

architect of the men’s eight crew?

Both have strong cases but it’s hard to quantify individual awards in a team sport.

Coach of the Year should be Carrington’s coach Gordon Walker with honourable mentions to Gary Stead and women’s sevens coach Allan Bunting and rowing coaches Mike Roger and Tony O’Connor.

Debate is good for the awards evening as it has lost a little lustre of late.

Sport gives people hope Former Marlborough Boys’ College student Ben Lucas says there is no event in the world like the Paralympic Games.

“It’s phenomenal to watch what people can do after the curve ball life has thrown them,” says Ben, who was born and raised in Blenheim.

He competed in wheelchair racing in two Paralympic Games in Atlanta (1996) and Sydney (2000), was New Zealand’s Chef de Mission for Rio 2016, the team’s most successful Paralympics with 21 medals.

“Life is different with a disability,” says Ben. The Paralympic Games harnesses the human spirit, he says.

“These athletes have never given up and for many, sport and the goal of the competing at the Paralympics has been a big part of their rehabilitation.”

His own life changed in a moment over 30 years ago.

In 1989, then 24, he crashed his motorbike in Newmarket, hitting a U-turning van and breaking his L3 lumbar vertebrae, leaving him paralysed.

He went flying, skidding down the road and landing on his back.

That blew his spine into pieces, and leaving him in agony.

He thought about a couple of Blenheim mates who had broken their necks and had fully recovered, as he expected to.

“The next day the house surgeon put his hand on my shoulder. He said: ‘Young man, you’ve had a

nasty accident and you will never walk again’. He left. Curtains were drawn around me and I cried for an hour.”

Ben called a good mate to tell him that this was serious.

“He took some convincing” Then he came in - and fainted.

“We both had a laugh about that.”

He then made the toughest phone call of his life, to his parents, Bev and Ted Lucas, in Blenheim..

“I thought very early on ‘There are a couple of ways I can do this; I can feel sorry for myself or I can make the most of every day and have the best possible life. I chose the second option.”

On discharge home to his parents here, he travelled weekly to Nelson to play wheelchair basketball.

There, he was also introduced to wheelchair racing.

“I was bitten by the bug.”

But his f irst track meet in Christchurch wasn’t great.

“I got lapped in the 1500m,” he recalls, laughing about the “clap of shame” from the whole grandstand as he came in.

“I was determined to not get lapped again so I put in some work and slowly improved until I was competing at Paralympic level.”

It was an “unbelievable honour” to line up for his first Paralympic Games in 1996 in Atlanta, where he was flagbearer.

He made the semi-finals of the 5000m and 10,000m and finished eighth in the marathon.

Other career highlights included a bronze medal at the 1994 Com-

Former Blenheim man Ben Lucas - paralympic champion in action.

monwealth Games in Canada and a gold in the 1999 World Wheelchair Games in Christchurch.

Ben was again flagbearer for the 2000 Paralympics – something undreamed of back when he was lying prone in hospital.

He also began working with Parafed Canterbury, initiating the Parafed Canterbury Elite and Development Squads and mentored athletes.

He now works for ACC as a lead disability advisor and says their

partnership with Paralympics NZ is a natural fit.

“The difference sport can make to someone’s recovery is profound,” he says.

“Sport gives people hope... it gives them discipline and purpose.

Wairau Valley Golf Club – ‘THE CLASSIC’ The Wairau Valley Golf Club have got their fingers crossed that Covid-19 doesn’t disrupt their annual ‘The Classic’ Golf Tournament to be held on Friday 24th September, this year. The club were expecting to celebrate their 50th Jubilee in 2020 but issues around Covid-19 caused them to cancel their tournament held at the picturesque Wairau Valley township

9 hole golf course.

Club President, Mike Collins said “it was very frustrating being unable to hold ‘The Classic’ last year, not just because it was our Jubilee year, but also as it serves as our annual fundraising event, with proceeds specifically targeted at course improvements and the running of the club”.

‘The Classic’ is an 18 hole Mens and

Ladies Stableford competition open to all handicaps with places limited to just 72, on a first in first served basis.

Mike has stated how grateful the club is to all the sponsors which will enable the club to offer a good number of prizes on the day, both on and off the Course.

The cost of entry ($50/person) covers a light lunch/BBQ with special features

including raffles and an auction once all golfers have finished. Refreshments and food will be available around the course to help the players keep their energy levels up.

Book early to avoid disappointment through either email (wairauvalleygolfclub@gmail.com) or by contacting our secretary Alison Graham on 0212122797.

20 Wednesday August 25, 2021

The Sun