14 December Blenheim Sun Newspaper

Jude Goodall’s face becomes rather animated when she talks about her volunteer role with the New Zealand Red Cross.

Jude is one of 40 active volunteers involved with Blenheim’s Red Cross Migration Programmes.

She has done three placements with three families since the program started in Marlborough three years ago. The volunteers are trained with the Red Cross through cultural awareness training and helping families assimilate into the lifestyle in the region.

Continued from page 1.

By Chris Valli

THE TEAM: Settlement caseworker Natalia Vasquez, Olga Ortiz, Red Cross Volunteer Programme Lead Anna Mills-Kelly and Refugee Support Volunteer, Jude Goodall.

We feel welcome

Continued from page 1.

Jude has been working alongside Colombian Olga Ortiz and her family consisting of Victor, Nike and Nicarin for the past six months. Jude and Olga are developing a wonderful rapport and positive, open relationship that has formed into a unique friendship.

Olga is working as a chef with Compass Group (a contract food service company). She says arriving in the Marlborough community her family felt there was a sense of the unknown. However, the love and support of the Red Cross has allowed the family to ‘be the best they can be’.

“People here in Marlborough are great and have made us feel welcome, even with my lack of English. I have been invited to meetings and parties and I feel like I am contributing,” she says.

When a refugee family arrives, they have a ‘volunteer group’ attached to them and the transition to life in Marlborough whether that is learning new product names in the supermarket and or translating the

Kiwi vernacular.

Jude says tasks such as going to the supermarket can be quite daunting for the family, yet alone how to decipher or make sense of the food labels and language associated with products which she says can only be described as confusing.

“You’re looking for pinto beans and looking for avocados, when it’s the middle of winter,” Jude says. “Things that is just normal for us (New Zealanders). Language like understanding what is a season when in their native Spanish they would refer to the word climate (climatizado).”

Jude says everybody that she has worked with has their own backstory whether that is through trauma or happiness.

“They’re just normal people who have been through hard times. You know you are making a difference in their lives when they start sharing and opening up or inviting you for some shared food. Olga’s chicken and rice is divine.”

Olga says Jude is ‘crazy’ like her

which helps with the relationship and says she has a great personality and is always happy. First experiences such as going to the beach and Picton was with Jude which makes for happy memories.

Anna Mills-Kelly works for the Red Cross as the Volunteer Programme Lead and Pathways to Settlement.

Anna says Marlborough Red Cross volunteers come from all walks of life such as people who are retired, working full time and those involved with the wine industry.

“We work around people’s availability. They are people with kind hearts who are interested in other cultures, sometimes they have done a lot of travelling, sometimes they have done no travelling and this is like travel coming to them. They are thoughtful, kind people who have got time to look after someone else.”

To register your interest to be a volunteer with Red Cross email migration.volunteers@redcross.org. nz or at www.redcross/refugeesupportvoluntee or on 027 273 1451

Wear yellow for Harold

Students from Riverlands School dressed up in yellow on Friday to support Life Education Trust Marlborough's inaugural 'Wear Yellow for Harold' mufti day. The Marlborough, West Coast and Waikato regions participated in the fundraiser while Riverlands were part of nine schools across the region who took part in the fundrasier.

The Blenheim-based Alvarez family of Nicarin, Victor, Olga and Nike from Colombia.

The greater good of Marlborough and the community

By Chris Valli

Nicki Stretch defines team as everyone working together for a common purpose. She also believes culture doesn’t happen by accident.

The chair of Marlborough’s Graeme Dingle Foundation was recognised recently as a Kiwi bank Local Hero medallist.

Nicki is responsible for the governance of an organisation which provides young people with life-affirming experiences and skills. Through sponsorship and fundraising, Nicki’s leadership has secured a million dollars for the organisation’s running costs, almost all from local sources.

She says her recognition is ultimately about employing the right people.

“You can see how they might fit in through their actions. They have a passion or flicker that says (internally) that’s the right organisation for me. So how did she find out?

“I got a text from Kelvin (Watt, Marlborough Regional Manager) when I was in Adelaide as my husband was involved with the over 50s cricket team and I had just woken up. Initially I was like, ‘what’s going on?’ ”

She says as the news sunk in for what she had been recognised for she felt two things.

“I was chuffed to have been acknowledged and then to think it was my team that put me forward and nominated me,” she says.

Rotorua born and bred, Nicki’s

family arrived in Blenheim in 2011 joining the Graeme Dingle Foundation board in January 2013. She says she looks back over the past 10 years with her involvement with the foundation and believes it’s been a magic time.

When Nicki was working in a bank in Hamilton she came across what was then known as the Foundation for Youth Development (now GDF). By chance she got the opportunity to see and hear the foundation’s founder Graeme Dingle speak in Dunedin through her banking contacts.

“He’s such an inspiring guy and humble. What he has achieved from a mountaineering perspective is great (numerous first ascents in the Andes, Himalayas, Antarctica and New Zealand).

The talk he gave that night was about looking at making a change and that started in his own country and he took it upon himself to make a change,” she says.

Established in 1995, the foundation is the country’s leading Child and Youth Development charity with programmes delivered to over 28,000 young people in 10 regions across the country.

Nikki says the foundation for her is ultimately about a stronger community. She says bringing the team together comes from leadership across the board and from within the leadership team. When she joined there was one full time person. Ten years later the foundation has a staff of more than 20 - that’s huge growth.

“The (volunteer) hours are a lot. However, you only give as much as you are able to. You have to work at it though. When it’s a passion, you tend to want to give more. We have an awesome team and to see people like Kelvin thrive and grow is what it’s all about.”

Other Marlborough local hero medallists included for making a positive difference were Bronwen Laird for her work as manager with the Marlborough Girls’

College futsal team which gained a place in both the 2019 regional and national tournaments.

Marlborough Youth Trust Manager Jo Lane was also recognised for setting up the dedicated youth space, MySpace and the driving force behind numerous tailored programmes for young people. She also oversees the popular CACTUS programme which encourages team building through a rigorous and disciplined fitness course.

inbrief Sun The

New artificial turf

Marlborough is set to benefit from a state-of-the-art artificial hockey turf to be built at Marlborough Girls’ College.

Marlborough District Council has negotiated a long-term lease to build a new international-standard turf at the college’s campus – the site of Blenheim’s future co-located colleges – after agreeing to an early exit of its College Park lease on Stephenson Street.

Councillor Matt Flight, who holds the Council’s sporting and community facilities portfolio, said the new facility would be an asset for both the community and the girls’ and boys’ colleges, which will have use of the turf during school hours as part of the agreement reached with the Ministry of Education.

Visitors welcome to Kenepuru

The damage sustained to Marlborough Sounds’ roads by the August 2022 storm was substantial, with over twice the damage of the storm of July 2021. Over 670km of Marlborough roads received damage, with over 4,000 faults.

Mayor Nadine Taylor said the Marlborough Roads team had worked hard to restore access to communities in the Sounds and return roads to public access.

“We love to see visitors coming to Marlborough over summer but if you want to enjoy the Kenepuru area, the Council offers a water taxi subsidy - and I strongly encourage you to take advantage of that and stay off the roads. Water taxi services can be booked through the Picton, Blenheim and Havelock i-SITES.”

Graeme Dingle Foundation Marlborough Chair Nicki Stretch says when it’s a passion, you tend to want to give more. "We have an awesome team and to see people thrive and grow is what it’s all about.”

The power of Santa

Bohally’s Bailey is a diamond

By Chris Valli

Bailey Robb is the first Bohally Intermediate student to achieve a Diamond badge for academic achievement.

Bailey earned over 500 points over the last two years through her academic endeavours. She achieved the platinum science badge, which consisted of completing 25 science activities with each activity requiring about 10 hours of work.

Teacher Philip Johnson says the school offers school badges based on service, sports, academic and arts. Students earn points by completing or participating in a range of activities.

“Bailey has gone above and beyond because in her two years at Bohally, she earned 540 academic badge points (Bohally record), which resulted in the school creating a new badge called diamond. She earnt points by completing science and maths activities, spelling bees, a lion speech competition (third place), and external academic exams. She was also a consistent member of the Bohally Future Problem Solving group and extension classes.”

Philip says Bailey also earned

the Platinum Science award due to her achieving 29 science activities (each activity equivalent to eight hours of work) in her two years at Bohally. She is the second Bohally student to achieve this award in the last 10 years.

Bailey says she just wanted to create good skills and habits for future learning.

“I also like to make a positive mark within a school. I enjoy doing extra-curricular activities because they are fun and challenging. I set personal goals that I know if I work hard, I can achieve, which leads to the feeling of a sense of accomplishment when I complete a goal.

“I want to thank Bohally, especially Mr Johnson and Mrs Whitaker, for providing the opportunities and pushing me to success. And, of course, Mrs Cameron-Dunn, my principal, was always so proud of me and kept me going.”

Next year Bailey is off to Marlborough Girls’ College. She says her long-term goal is to attend university to study astronomy or marine biology.

“I don’t know what my future will hold for me, but I will take each year as it comes and set goals around that.”

The Mitre 10 Mega Marlborough Christmas in the Park sponsored event at Churchill Glade on Sunday night saw locals indulging in some fine weather and a wonderful family atmosphere. The Marlborough District Brass Band and Children's Choir led by Lindy Knowles entertained with Christmas favourites.

Bailey Robb says she enjoys doing extra-curricular activities because they are fun and challenging.

Worth, strength, purpose

By Chris Valli

A personal development and mentoring program for teen girls is leaving a positive impression on intermediate school girls in Blenheim.

Shine Girl uses an inspirational, practical and experiential approach to learning. Since its conception in Sydney, 1997, Shine has been used globally by thousands of organisations in various settings including schools, refuges, ethnic and indigenous communities, religious groups, rural communities, correctional centres and girl’s homes.

Shine Girl Blenheim Lead Facilitator Tineka Hesketh has run the program since Term 2 for Year 6 and 7 students through Connect Marlborough Trust in Beaver Road.

Weekly sessions are run every Thursday afternoon during term time. The program equips girls to identify themselves as valuable and addresses the building of self-confidence, self-esteem and self-worth.

The program also allows the girls to develop decision making and problem solving skills.

“There was definitely a need for the program,” Tineka says. “The first couple of sessions look at what (holistic) strength is and having boundaries and what their respective truths are. We also look at their purpose, that we all have seeds of attention inside of us and how we might grow those seeds.”

“At the moment we are doing the program at an intermediate level. We would love to get into the colleges and up to Year 10,” she says.

A table is set up in a lounge room at Connect which is ‘beautifully decorated’ with decorations, flowers with a different theme or activities every week. Tineka models sessions such as how to use correct body posture.

“We did an activity where we walked the red carpet which looked at how to hold their posture, shoulders back and heads up. I try to model it,” she laughs.

“Everyone’s favourite activity is ‘six different coloured ribbons’ which represents personal values

such as honesty, creativity, quirkiness, uniqueness, where the girls choose ribbons based on how they see each other. It’s often surprising to those involved.”

Tineka says the girls she supports come from diverse backgrounds with a realm of their own emotions and stories or lack thereof.

“Some are rather animated and know how to articulate their feelings while others not so much. We look at emotions in one of the sessions and how to address issues

like puberty which can bring up all sorts of emotion.”

The Shine Girl program is currently in Nelson and is across 17 schools. Shine Girl in Blenheim currently has two schools involved, Mayfield and Blenheim.

The program has five girls but generally there are eight. Two have joined through home-schooling while another from Ukraine.

“We had to translate everything into her own language using Google translate. I think we got some of the messages across

and we could see her personality coming out,” says Tineka.

“The feedback from the girls and the parents and the schools has been great. What they have found is new-found friendships and they are part of something unique and special. It all comes down to their sharing of personal stories and the small nature of the groups.”

If locals are wanting to know more information or want to enrol a girl contact Tineka at tineka@ connectblenheim.org.nz or on Facebook @ shinegirlblenheim.

Zarna Blissom Shine Woman facilitator, Jessica Simmons, Shine Girl facilitator, Angeline Forlong, Shine Woman facilitator and Tineka Hesketh Shine Girl facilitator.

Letters on issues of community interest are welcomed. A maximum of 150 words please.

They must be signed and a street address provided to show good faith, even when a nom de plume is provided for publication.

The editor reserves the right to

Clubs

In response to Ed Roggeveen (Sun Nov 30), if he read my letter fully, he would have seen the last paragraph praising Clubs of Marlborough for their communication with members.

My point is that whilst there was general encouragement to use the facilities, I can’t recall an email saying: “use the club more or we will be forced to close” or some such

Gratitude to the editor

abridge letters or withhold letters from publication.

Email them to news@blenheimsun. co.nz or present to our office at 72 High St.

Please note that your name and street address MUST be provided with emails.

similar strong ‘call to action’ wording. Happy to be proven wrong, Ed, but I can’t recall such a message from the Clubs. Had such a blunt ‘use it or lose it’ communication been delivered to members, I believe it may well have sparked the desired increased attendance.

Mark Hanson Omaka Landing

Ursula von der Leyen of the EU admitted Ukraine had lost over 100,000 men to date.

This part of the statement was quickly retracted.

Russia, despite MSM reports, is winning.

The genesis of the conflict goes a long way back. Kiev was capital of Russia in the 11th Century and has for millennia been part of the Russian Empire.

People east of the Dnieper River are Russian, 80% speak Russian and it’s these people the conflict is about namely Donbas. 1989 the wall came down James Baker Foreign Secretary US (1989-92) stated and well recorded NATO US would not move one inch to the East if Russia Mikhail

Gorbachev agreed to German unification. They breached this agreement, Manfred Warner German Secretary General NATO (1988-92) confirmed this.

They not only brought several former Warsaw pact countries into NATO they militarised them forward against Moscow.

Then Ukraine was overthrown by a coup 2014 removing a democratically elected president who, like previous leader 20042008, were pro-Russian.

To top it off Ukraine refused to honour the Minsk agreement. Russia had no choice.

No More Wars McKenzie Street, Blenheim

I just want to say I feel so much gratitude for your journalist Chris Valli for approaching me for an interview, and gently encouraging me without pressuring and for your patience while I felt into it and for your openness to explore your own healing journey with me.

I love the article and despite the vulnerability I was feeling around putting myself out there, I feel you have honoured what I do, and it’s an accurate portrayal without mincing my words (which has happened in the past with journalists).

I trusted you Chris, and I thank you for letting people know what I do, more people need to know that this is an option and that I am available to be of service.

Many thanks Kylie Fleur Bio Energy Healer Springlands

We got to over $3 per litre when finally the government stepped in with a 25c reduction and we have seen petrol and diesel drop to around $2.60-$2.70. How can that price be justified when oil has fallen over $3 since the highs from $109 a barrel to currently $74-$85 approximately - the brent crude price. The experts say $1 per barrel is 1 cent at the pump so where are the 30-40 cent reductions. Governments are pointing the finger for cost of living crisis on the war in Ukraine however one; prices had been rising well before the invasion and two; how is it that the invasion of Iraq and Afghasistan did not discernably create a cost of living crisis for the rest of the world back then. This crisis is blood on the hands of Central Banks and successive governments and primarly the West back firing sanctions on Russia. If money (fiat money) were connected to gold or silver, when commodities go up so usually does gold and silver - reason why China had no depression - money tied to silver during depression.

McKenzie Street, Blenheim

Mr S Claus North Pole

The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus - Frank Baum

Anita Gaolathwe Blenheim

The Boring Book - Shinsuke Yoshitake

Malcolm Rush Blenheim

Watership Down - Richard Adams - was my first decent read as a youngster.

Krystal Palmer Blenheim

The Secret of Scent’ - Luca Turin

Harsh Prashar Blenheim

101 Cocktails to try before

die - Francois Monti

Lucy Harvey Blenheim

The Forager’s TreasuryJohanna Knox

Visitors welcome to Kenepuru but please take a water taxi

The damage sustained to Sounds roads by the August 2022 storm was substantial, with over twice the damage of the storm of July 2021.

More than 670km of Marlborough roads received damage, with over 4,000 faults.

Mayor Nadine Taylor said the Marlborough Roads team had worked hard to restore access to communities in the Sounds and return roads to public access.

“Over 600km of roads have been returned to public access.”

“But anyone visiting the Sounds should be aware that some roads

remain closed, with resident access only and other restrictions.”

“Kenepuru Road and its side roads, including Moetapu Bay Road, are restricted to residents and emergency services only. They are not suitable for visitors.”

“We love to see visitors coming to Marlborough over summer but if you want to enjoy the Kenepuru area, the Council offers a water taxi subsidy - and I strongly encourage you to take advantage of that and stay off the roads. Water taxi services can be booked through the Picton, Blenheim and Havelock i-SITES.”

Other road restrictions over the summer holiday period:

Resident and emergency access only:

• Kenepuru Road and its side roads: no campervans, vans or buses. 4WD only. No vehicles over eight metres in length. Light vehicles only, nothing over 3.5 tonnes

• Moetapu Bay Road: no campervans, vans or buses. 4WD only. Light vehicles only, nothing over 3.5 tonnes or eight metres in length

Resident and visitor access:

• Queen Charlotte Drive: no buses/ coaches over 12.6 metres in length

• Anakiwa Road: no buses/coaches

French Pass and Tennyson Inlet are accessible but drivers should be aware that the road is narrower than usual in some sections. Throughout the Sounds there are single lane only, traffic lights, priority giveways and temporary speed restrictions. Please drive to the conditions. To check the status of any local road visit the Marlborough CDEM Official Public Information Map. Residents are advised that roading repair works in the Marlborough Sounds and Awatere Valley will stop from Thursday 22 December 2022 to Sunday 15 January 2023.

He kōrero nā te Kaunihera o Wairau

Your local news from the Marlborough District Council

Sounds Future Access Study

Council is focused on creating as much certainty as possible for everyone who lives, works and visits the Marlborough Sounds. The Sounds Future Access Study will look to provide long-term access solutions for residents, homeowners and businesses in the storm affected areas of the Sounds.

Consultation is expected to start in late January, with community meetings. The study is looking at four areas: French Pass, Pelorus, Kenepuru and Port Underwood,

recognising their distinct access issues. Consulting, engineering and construction company Stantec has been appointed to carry out the study. The study’s terms of reference will be made available for public comment before Christmas.

From late January, Sounds’ communities will be asked for their input, to help Council and Waka Kotahi decide the type of safe, resilient and affordable access for the future.

Proposed East Coast beach vehicle bylaw to be decided in 2023

The Council will decide early next year whether to proceed with an East Coast beach vehicle bylaw. All current rules remain in place for this summer season.

Council consulted on a draft bylaw, which includes provisions prohibiting beach vehicle access in some areas. The purpose of the bylaw is to improve public safety and enable habitat restoration, protecting the area’s many threatened and at-risk species.

Council urges member of the public visiting the East Coast over Christmas to be mindful of its special significance.

Councillors will be briefed on the proposal, the process to date and the hearing panel

recommendations. The public consultation undertaken in 2021 resulted in 193 submissions, including 50 submitters who spoke to the hearings panel.

An agenda item on the proposed bylaw will go to the full Council in early 2023, with the panel’s recommendations report released at that time. This additional time will allow for new councillors to be briefed and for discussions to conclude with iwi.

The Council reconvenes in early February 2023.

For further information visit www. marlborough.govt.nz/your-council/bylaws/ proposed-east-coast-beach-vehicle-bylaw

Where’s the best place for a dip this summer?

Heading to a 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 the Council’s recreational bathing monitoring programme includes weekly samples collected from 21 sites across Marlborough.

In summer the risk of catching a bug 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/swimming/ Testing continues until March. There’s also information at: www. marlborough.govt.nz/recreation/ swimmingand-boating/swimming-locations

Street Address: 15 Seymour Street Blenheim 7201 New Zealand

Kenepuru Road at Portage Heights

one on one with the Sun

Jewellery has the power that makes you feel unique

A lot has happened for Gina Botham both personally and professionally in 12 years. Travelling, marrying her husband Nigel and having two young, wonderful boys.

The self-confessed ‘animal mad’ owner of a two-year-old English pointer often requires her to get out of bed with early morning starts for a good hour’s walk down the river bank.

She’s also followed her passion of jewellery into what is now known as GMW Jewellery.

Her face certainly animates when she is talking about all things jewellery - and with good reason. She believes there are some people who love jewellery while others don’t like it at all.

“When you genuinely love jewellery the pieces that you have or own are special. They mean something and often bring back a memory for them or who used to own the jewellery. That’s what makes it special.”

GMW Jewellery has been in the current location at the Redwoodtown Hub for four years. When the store first opened there were two staff, Gina and Amelia Pask who was initially one day a week then fulltime. GMW now has a team of six working part and full-time hours.

Prior to that Gina worked between her home office and local jeweller Noel Herd’s garage.

Gina says it goes without saying her own wedding ring is a treasured piece. Her partner Nigel did his own homework and due diligence when it came to finding the right look, a solitaire diamond ring, for their special day.

“He talked to Noel (Herd, local jeweller) he didn’t talk to me. It was certainly a surprise,” she says.

She says she has come across many precious stones and gems over the years that she has liked or wanted.

“I have to be satisfied with looking. I’d be poorer if I purchased everything I saw that I liked.”

GMW Jewellery is a member of the nationwide jewellers group. As a result, the business is able to source a wide range of materials including sterling silver, all carats of gold and platinum. Gina and the team are able to source diamonds and other precious stones from all over the world.

Gina says some of the more popular work they do is remaking of items which have perhaps seen better days and tend to be forgotten about.

Her only book on the subject, Elizabeth

My Love Affair with Jewellery was the winding course of a lifetime of loving men intertwined with loving jewellery.

“People will bring in items which have been handed down to them like their great grandmother’s old engagement ring which is really precious to them but has completely worn out and they’re not able to wear it anymore. They still have a certain amount of gold value but as an actual piece it’s beyond the point of wear. So we put it in the melting pot and remake it into something else.”

Speaking of gold, there is an Elizabeth Taylor quote in the reception area of the business which reads, ‘Jewellery has the power to be the one that makes you feel unique.’

The Hollywood actress is regarded as having the most important private jewellery collection in America.

“Mum found the quote in a magazine, not long after the shop opened,” says Gina. “This is what you need in the shop,’’ she said. It’s not always about the materialistic things in life though. There is a lot of heart in that quote as well. For the majority of people, the jewellery is about the meaning and not what it’s worth.”

Gina says her customers are genuinely awesome people and come from all walks of the wider Blenheim community. She says, in recent years there has been a shift in seeing more men inquiring about jewellery items either for themselves or their respective partners.

Fitting watch batteries has become another busy part of the workshop, a skillset Gina learnt

as an enthusiastic 17-year-old with Noel Herd, who later taught her the trade as an adult apprentice.

“He is the best and just like another member of the family. I talk to him every day. He’s such a character.”

“Putting the batteries in is something I have always done. Being able to fill that service now with Philip Gibbison (Redwoodtown jeweller) retired has opened a hole for people to get their batteries fitted without sending them out of town. Otherwise we would have 20 - 30 people in the shop daily that we would have to turn away.”

“Our repair jobs come from everywhere with glasses, watches, bracelets and rings. It’s a unique spread. Very rarely do we say no, we can’t fix that.

“We definitely didn’t have men’s jewellery in the shop in the early days. I initially found it difficult to stock what men liked because they like to choose, this is what

I want specifically. Now, we get more in the shop buying for women than buying for themselves, especially since we have put in a watch brand and batteries.”

Is she surprised by her profile and the brand that is GMW (Gina Marie Wadsworth - who knew?) She admits she’s not usually that keen on self-promotion.

“It has been hard. The kids probably say Mum’s just work, work, and work. But they benefit from the profile too. Nigel has been great with the after school pick-ups as he does shift work and is often available when required.

“I think it all comes down to looking after people. If we can’t help we try and help find what might be available and that is the key. If someone walks out of your shop and they are happy, they are going to tell people they are happy with the service. In turn, they will tell half a dozen other people and that makes it all worthwhile.”

Taylor:

Gina Botham’s love affair with jewellery began as a teenager where she worked for Noel Herd, a local Blenheim Jeweller. She caught up with journalist Chris Valli to reflect on a business she is proud of and why her work is now her passion.

“Noel is the best and just like another member of the family. I talk to him every day. He’s such a character”

UNCONDITIONAL LOVE: Gina and her two boys, Charlie, 11 and Archie, 14.

A DOGS LIFE: Quality time with Della.

Tree Festival display bigger than ever

The Renwick Christmas Tree Festival has fast grown to be a popular attraction at Christmas for many in Marlborough, and this year it offers even more to delight.

The Renwick festival started at the Wairau Valley Anglican Church in Renwick in 2015 with a smaller display planned only to be open over four days, however the popularity saw the festival stay open longer in the first year and turned in to 12 days the following year.

Local community groups and businesses have been invited to creatively decorate Christmas trees to become part of the display.

This year the Renwick Christmas Tree Festival has joined with the Marlborough Floral Art Group for a double delight. Not only will visitors be treated to a wonderful Christmas tree display featuring over 50 trees, throughout the building are floral art displays which will

The Marlborough Floral Art Group team from left Dian Patterson, Wendy Tait, Shirley Roughan and Kathryn Neal. This year the Renwick Christmas Tree Festival has joined with the Marlborough Floral Art Group. Visitors will be treated to a wonderful tree display featuring over 50 trees, throughout the building are floral art displays which will amaze and astound.

amaze and astound.

The Marlborough Floral Art Group had originally planned an exhibition at the Clubs of Marlborough before being informed of the recent closure. Local vicar Rev. Joe Keighley was excited at the opportunity for the Christmas Tree Festival to join with the Floral Art Group, bringing a wider variety of creativity to celebrate the Christmas season,

“It’s a match made in heaven, trees and flowers, both created on the Third Day. I’m sure that all the visitors will see that it is good,” he says.

The joint festival is expected to see over 2000 people attend over the next week – 10 days and is open daily from Tuesday 13th 10am to 10pm and finishing at 12pm on Christmas Eve. Entry is free. Visitors have the opportunity to give a donation to the international aid and relief organisation Tearfund.

School of Rock - Combined College Production

By Chris Valli

After a four year gap, Marlborough Boys’ and Marlborough Girls’ College students are set to take the stage in the 2023 production School of Rock.

Based on the 2003 film of the same name, School of Rock The Musical follows Dewey Finn, an out-ofwork rock singer and guitarist who pretends to be a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school. After identifying the musical talent in his students, Dewey forms a band of fifth-graders, in an attempt to win the upcoming Battle of the Bands contest.

MBC Musical Director Robin Randall says the show will regenerate the

Performing Arts in both schools. He says the fact that the two colleges will be combined in the foreseeable future makes the production timely.

“It’s really important that we start working together now on a more regular basis. This is one way the schools will be heading and it’s great to have this opportunity,” he says.

The Director will be Jeannie Mark while Ngaire Searle will be the Production Manager.

“We’re really pleased to have Jeannie on board as well as well-respected members of the community willing to help out with the likes of Viv and Neville Patchett who will assist with the set and costuming. So we are building a good team there,” Robin says.

Robin says they were initially looking at doing We Will Rock You, the jukebox musical based on the songs of Queen written by Ben Elton. However, he says the show was fully booked for the next few years.

“Ngaire and I had talked about what we could do as a replacement and we thought School of Rock would be fantastic and that the students would really embrace it and be excited about it.”

At this stage, there is a potential cast of 30 with several roles for rock band instrumentalists, musicians, singers, actors and backstage crew.

Robin says auditions for the show will be around Week 3 in Term 1, 2023. The show will be held in the ASB Theatre August 1 – 5, 2023.

Pure Events New Year’s Eve Celebration

By Chris Valli

Marlborough is fortunate that this part of the world is the first to see in the New Year.

And Picton will be the venue which will be getting the party started with the Pure Events M a rlborough New Year’s Eve Celebration, on the foreshore. After the cancellation of the

2021 event and the closure of Marlborough 4 Fun, Pure Events Marlborough is delighted to be bringing this fantastic event back to life with the support of the Marlborough District Council.

This year’s event promises to be a huge celebration with some amazing entertainment.

The main stage will have an awesome line up of nonstop entertain-

ment from 7pm with national band DangerBaby bringing in the New Year. DangerBaby brings you an amazing visual and audio experience plus a solid repertoire to boot. A high energy six piece covers band, they are expected to power through the hits across the music spectrum.

Local covers band Bitter End will get the party started followed

by Eclectic Fix, another amazing local group of eight musicians, featuring music from light pop to some funky Jazz. In between each band set will be a fab fire show from Anton Hartley.

Local food vendors will be available through the night, fun for the kids and a finale firework extravaganza over the water at midnight. So a stunning location, great

entertainment, amazing fireworks, fun for the whole family – what more could you want to bring in the New Year?

The celebration starts at 7pm. See Pure Events Marlborough Facebook page for more details.

Footnote: Due to staff shortages and unavailability there will be no buses from Blenheim running for the event.

School of Rock MBC Musical Director Robin Randall says the show will regenerate the Performing Arts in both schools.

Students demonstrate resilience and relationships

By Chris Valli

A Spring Creek School mural has given more to the students that just colours and time out of the classroom.

Year 6 students have designed and created a large mural for their school and to ‘give back’ to their school and community.

The mural was part of their inquiry learning which linked to the school’s values of respect (manaaki), responsibility (takohanga), resilience (manawaroa) and relationships (piringa).

Kate Vavasour provided artistic support for the students on the project. She says their learning involved looking at New Zealand artist Robin White, a painter and printmaker. They also looked at English painter David Hockney’s work, an influential contributor to the pop art movement of the 1960s.

In 2018, Hockney’s 1972 work Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures) sold at Christie’s auction house in New York City for $90 million becoming the most expensive artwork by a living artist sold at auction.

“It’s always quite good to use an artist to give the children the opportunity. Questions arose around what he did with his landscapes and how he used colours and they were really into that.

They were very confident when it came to

articulating their learning.”

“It was about helping guide the children with their own ideas and what they wanted to do,” Kate says. “This is very much about them from their Maori identity with Matariki in the corner to the waka (canoe) and the awa (Wairau River) and their learning.”

Ideas for the mural started in Term 3 and took just over seven weeks to complete. Acting principal and teacher Cheryl Alderlieste says Year 6 students come up with a ‘leaving project’ annually. Last year, students made totem poles at the school front entrance.

“It’s about leaving behind something special, their mark on their time here,” she says.

“The waka is a huge part of the school and reflects our positive behaviour to learning with us all being on a journey together .”

Cheryl says the resilience of the students certainly came through and they were able to regulate themselves and find the space to take a break and then go back to what they needed to do.

“The special thing about this group is that they were my Year 4s when I started here. Seeing them leave and the strength they now have which makes them feel good about themselves,” says Cheryl.

The funding for the project materials was kindly provided by the Marlborough District Council’s Creative Communities Scheme.

Year 6 students reflect on their mahi alongside Kate Vavasour and acting principal Cheryl Alderlieste.

John

By Chris Valli

A mini Christmas market at Springlands Lifestyle Village last week gave back to the community. And then some.

Village manager Naomi Nailer says the village wanted to somehow give back to the community in some way and knew they had a lot of residents and staff who were very talented.

“The idea came to mind to see if somehow we could donate some of the proceeds to a charity. So, we put it out to our residents and staff to see who was interested. We were so humbled by their responses. We had knitted items, brand new items that were no longer required, hand painted pottery, handmade soaps, aprons, bags, gift baskets, macramé and painted rocks,” says Naomi.

The ladies from Springlands Pharmacy also joined the residents with complimentary hand massages and nail treatments which they said was ‘their Christmas gifts to the residents.’

Naomi says they had a raffle which was made up of items donated by residents and in total they managed to raise $904 for St John, all taking place on site in their community centre.

The lucky winner of the St John raffle was resident Joscelyn Staff who was thrilled as she said she never wins raffles.

“We had the lovely Hannah with her van from Koffie Mobile along and sweet treats cooked in our very own kitchen available for purchase with proceeds from those also going to St John. We set up a wee cafe seating area and had some residents who stayed all morning.”

Naomi says for some of the residents, who were less mobile, they loved the opportunity to be able to come along, purchase something for their family and friends and knowing their purchase was helping out a great organisation like St John.

“This is certainly something we will be working towards making bigger and better for 2023,” she says.

Business Trust chair hands over to new blood

Business Trust Marlborough runs the local business mentoring scheme and provides the administration for Angel Investors Marlbor ough, as well as providing a wide range of advisory services and events for small and medium-sized businesses across the district.

Sue Avery was the organisation’s founding manager, and moved onto its board in 2017, taking over as chair in 2020.

Sue says Business Trust Marlborough is in great shape, with high scores in client satisfaction. It is providing real value to Marlborough through the advice and men toring it provides to small business owners locally.

Aaron Marshall joined the board of Business Trust Marlborough in 2021 currently self-employed as an aviation safety and risk management consultant, helping small aviation operators navigate the various

Business Trust Marlborough chair Sue Avery has passed the baton on to new chair, Aaron Marshall.

Betty Williams making the most of the lovely complimentary hand treatments from the lovely ladies at Springlands Pharmacy.

College’s best result

The South Island Junior Secondary Schools Water Polo Championship took place in Christchurch at the weekend and both the Marlborough Girls’ and Boys’ College teams achieved the best results in their history. MGC won and MBC were runners up.

MBC’s path to the final was a tough one. They had a couple of very tight matches against Burnside and St Andrew’s winning 7-5 and 6-5 respectively. Their last pool game was against St Bede’s, the champions for the last two years, and resulted in a 6-12 loss. Their semi-final was a rematch against Burnside and ended in another narrow win - 8-7. Their opponent in the final was St Bede’s, but in contrast to their pool game, MBC upped their game and were leading 4-2 going into the final quarter. St Bede’s fought back to level the game in the last nerve-jangling minutes of the game, which was gut-wrenchingly decided on penalties, which St Bede’s won 4-3.

MGC were impressively dominant during pool play and remained undefeated – with their superior fitness and ball-handling skills coming to the fore. Having qualified for the semi-final, they faced Christchurch Girls’ High School and continued in similar fashion, running out 16-4 winners. In the final they faced Villa Maria, in what turned out to be a tense game. MGC finished the first quarter leading 2-0, but by half-time were down 2-3. They fought their way back into a 4-3 lead at the end of the third quarter, which after a nail-biting, goalless fourth quarter was the final score. Koko Wong was named Most Valuable Player in the girls’ tournament.

They’ve done it again

Awatere Preschool in Seddon contacted Mitre 10 asking if they could help them to achieve their dream of filling the carpentry cupboard with tools for the children to create their own things. They were hoping for a discounted price but came back

to them and very kindly offered to give the preschool all the tools they needed. Teacher Bronwyn Yarrall says they were blown away with their generosity and especially all the help that Amy Darling was able to give them.

Left to right back row standing are Rosie Chandra (teacher) Benji Cranswick, Stirling Moore, Millie Chapman, Ari Moore, Bronwyn Yarrall (teacher. Middle row left to right are Darcy Jones, Willow Brown, Hugh Gilmore. Front row sitting is Tadhg O’Regan, Alex Green, James Chapman and Thorin Focken.

MGC: Rear (L-R) Amy Wong (Manager), Hayley McCormick, Koko Wong, Izzy Robertson, Katie Pugh, Carys McNabb, Jaimie Elrick, Mia Lindfield, Paul Sell (Coach); Front (L-R) Gabby Miller, Katie Marsh, Chloe Sell, Violet Speakman.

MBC: Rear (L-R) Hugh Bradley, Finn McNabb, Lindsay Keay (Manager), Al Keay (Asst Coach), Hugo Edsall, Patrick Mulcahy (Coach), Fynn Russell, Jamie Harrison; Front (L-R) William McCallum, Jacob McLeish, Liam McIntyre, Scott Keay, George Adams.

• Receive premium hearing aids for the price of advanced

• Receive advanced hearing aids for the price of standard

The hearing aids are rechargeable, waterproof and Bluetooth capable with android and apple.

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology is a style of massage that involves applying varying amounts of pressure and using techniques on the feet, hands, or ears.

It’s based on a theory that these body parts are connected to certain organs and body systems. Reflexologists use maps of these points in the feet, hands, and ears to determine where they should apply pressure.

The touch sends energy flowing through a person’s body until it reaches the area in need of healing or flow.

In the 1890s, British scientists found that nerves connect the skin and internal organs. They also found that the body’s entire nervous system tends to adjust to outside factors, including touch.

A reflexologist’s touch may help to calm the central nervous system, promoting relaxation and other benefits just like any form of massage.

People have reported that reflexology helped them:

• reduce pain, stress and anxiety

• improve sleep

• lift mood and improve general well-being

• boost their immune system

• clear up sinus issues

• recover from back problems

• correct hormonal imbalances

• boost fertility

• improve digestion

• ease arthritis pain

• treat nerve problems and numbness (peripheral neuropathy)

People have said “it feels like I have had

Reflexology is a style of massage that involves applying varying amounts of pressure and using techniques on the feet, hands, or ears.

a full body massage, even though you have only massaged my feet!”.

Reflexology New Zealand accredited, Milinda has a passion for helping people using Reflexology and other holistic wellness tools.

Visit her website www.essence-and-soul. com to find out more and to book a Reflexology session.

Milinda Higgins

Sun The txt talk with

Talk of the week

Good article

Good article by Stuart Smith (Sun 7 Dec) on 3/5 Waters.

Thank you for some sense. Is this the death throes of the Labour government - yes surely. Before they ruin New Zealand any further.

Burgers?

Where to get a decent burger n Blenheim. Mcdonalds chicken burger disgusting. Just a bun. Lettuce n dry chicken pattie. What a rip off.

Re smoked out

The house you are questioning has had the fire going 4 times since labour weekend, the claim of everyday is a stretch! Your trees are overhanging all your neighbours property’s is sure to block any sun to your washing line on these “20 degree days”. More than happy to have a chat and solve this.

Weed cutter boat

Great to see weed cutter boat operating in the Taylor river, long overdue. As a local ratepayer, money well spent, as nothing better to see than a healthy flowing river, will improve colour also. Would like to think all the cut floating weed is going to be removed, also silt build up around Raupo cafe. Hopefully mowing contractor will have banks done soon also.

Auckland news

Do we really need to have Auckland news on the TV1 6pm News?

We live in the South Island...who CARES about new cycleways up there, or their transport issues?

Let’s dial into Canterbury news items... INSTEAD?

St John name

Got my subscription notice from St John, I see they have a Maori name too. Why is everything being changed to Maori? I was born here 84 years ago, and lived here ever since. I like the majority of New Zealanders have never been given a chance to say this is what we want. Give us a fair go.

Take one home

Instead of moaning they should have taken one off the puppies that needed a home. Just remember times are tough.

Charging stations

I see Marlborough Taxis using (abusing) free charging stations in town for their electric fleet. Are you passing that on to your customers with free taxi fares in Blenheim?

Christmas parade

Seeing the dragons on a float, if people knew the spiritual connotations to do with dragons, from the land of the dragon, New Zealand is no longer a Christian nation, to its own detriment.

Two Colleges

With the impending amalgamation of the two colleges it may be an opportune time to consider a new school motto. Any thoughts, but it would obviously have to be Maori.

Re taking responsibility

7th Dec paper. That explains why I saw so much seagull poo. On Market day I walked from a carpark opposite Library to Market St. The footpath and road was covered in it. Health Department needs a call, or council to sort it.

Ghost town

So sad to see our beautiful Blenheim slowly but surely turning into a ghost town. Went down to Picton last week and what a joy to be there - music playing and all shops buzzing with happy people. No shops were vacantgood food, entertainment and vibes. Go down Queen Street in Blenheim and half the shops are either boarded up or vacant. Our beautiful Clubs of Marlborough, empty! Our Theatre beside it has a big boarded up window (it’s been months now) A very sad look.

Disclosure

How come both New Zealand Government and New Zealand Police are registered corporations with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission? I thought corporations require full disclosure and consent when dealing with a man or woman?

Re too dear

Donated clothes & goods exorbitantly priced. Would love to know what percentage of Save Marts profit is donated back to charity please and thanks???

Indicators

Many thanks to those of you who bother to indicate (& correctly) at roundabouts. Much appreciated.

Street cleaning

This is the last time I will respond to your nasty text, please get your facts straight, the street sweeper and operator go to Picton every Wednesday (fact), 2am start, (fact), ask our neighbours who hears the Ute start at 1.45am every morning. I am his wife and I get a kiss on the cheek every morning before he heads off. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and manage to start your new year with kindness and positivity. To all the people who appreciate what Gary does, thank you. Merry Christmas Blenheim.

Re smear test cost

Definitely no equality there!!!!! Why differentiate between race..... Strong evidence of racism..... All female genitalia are created equal.

Sad day

Three Waters. So, it’s 3 Waters + down the drain now. Sad day for democracy.

Re do the crime

The sad fact is read until liberal limp twisted left wing softies who makeup the judiciary and the parole board directly suffer the crimes of these morons running the streets little will change. Bring on those in the judiciary and parole service becoming victims and let’s see if their attitudes change.

Re take pride

Take pride text re rental properties totally agree 100%..Its shear laziness..Be proud of where you live guys.

Very grateful thanks to Sowmans for their wonderful Christmas remembrance service recently. Such thoughtfulness and effort was obvious and much appreciated. Thank you and merry Christmas to each of you.

Thanks Very sad

I’m so sorry to see that Sheets and Things are closing down. It’s very sad. The ladies that work there have helped heaps of people over the years.

Extra mile

Awesome service from Dana at Farmers women’s clothing. Such a lovely lady and always goes the extra mile.

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.

Clubs of Marlborough

The silence is deafening but I wonder who’s paying the power and water bills in our absence?

Hospitality

Can’t believe reading that two eateries owned by the same family are closing their doors on December 25th (understandable) but still being closed on the 26th and 27th and closing on January 1st 2nd and 3rd . Maybe I’ll take my Aussie visitors to Nelson for lunch and dinner where they can enjoy some kiwi hospitality, but then that’s Blenheims problem, nowhere to eat on public holidays.

5 minutes with...

PhiliPPa hyndman

Disability Support Worker

gardening this week December gardening Grass Grub

This week I received two emails which maybe of interest to some gardeners.

The first was from a gardening couple, which read;

Hi Wally, your advice and weekly email’s worked great. I got first in the Veggie Section and my wife won in the Rose categories. Jerry.

What can I say? Use natural products that enhance the soil, giving the plants all the possible minerals that they may need to be healthy and stop using chemicals that are harmful to both soil, plants and yourself.

: By Wally Richards



Are you a dog or cat person?

Definitely a crazy cat lady but love dogs too.

Over the years I have received a few similar stories about how gardeners have turned their gardens into award winners by simply observing and using the above information.

The second email is of concern this time of the year and it read;

this is the time of the year that they emerge from pupating deep in the soil to feast on the foliage of a number of plants, mate and lay eggs back in lawns for future generations.

In my first book, Wally’s Down to Earth Gardening Guide, I suggest a trap to aid control of these pests.

thirds of its capacity, then place a film of kerosene on top of the water.

Put a bright light in the window, the beetles fly towards the lit window, hit the glass and fall into the trough.

The kerosene acts as a trap, preventing the fallen beetles from climbing out.

What did you want to be when you grew up?



I wanted to work on What Now? Behind the camera though!

Hi Wally, I have a problem with a brown beetle infestation. I was finding the leaves of my newly planted plum trees and almond tree were getting stripped bare almost. I wasn’t sure what it was but think the culprit is this brown beetle.

‘Grass grub adults emerge in October, and are active until about mid-December, depending on weather conditions and exactly where they are in New Zealand. The cooler the temperature, the later they emerge.

You can extend this method to areas away from the house by using a glass tank, such as might be used for an aquarium.

Place the empty tank into a tray containing several inches of water (and the kerosene), and position a light inside the glass tank.

One thing we’d be surprised to know about you?



I love singing but will never ever sing in front of others.

 Have you met anyone famous?

Yes, lots over the years but probably the most famous in NZ has been the two previous female Prime Ministers – Jenny Shipley and Helen Clark. I’d love to meet Jacinda to make it three. 

My favourite food to cook or eat is...?

To eat – Ice cream or anything caramel flavoured. 

The shop you can’t walk past is...?

Kmart or Spotlight (bring Spotlight to Blenheim!) 

What’s your favourite game of sport to watch?

Swimming. 

Your dream weekend involves....?

Going away to see a Musical Theatre show. 

Favourite programme or series currently watching?

Shortland Street and The Feed. 

What’s one thing on your bucket list?

Go to New York to see Broadway shows. 2024 – who’s coming?

I have since found hundreds (literally) in one of my raised beds and quite a few wherever I have placed the garden mix I bought a month ago.

Is there something I can do to get rid of these beasties? They are now attacking my raspberry plants and feijoa trees. Because they are in the soil - and potentially quite deep (some of them were 20cm deep) - I’m not sure how to fight them. Please help!

The writer sent me an amazing photograph which show hundreds of these brown beetles drowning in a container of water, along with photos of her plants badly damaged.

The beetle is the Grass Grub beetle and

The adults will start to emerge in mild conditions, when the soil temperature reaches about 10 degrees they then mate, fly, eat and lay eggs in the short space of time between dusk and early evening.

As they tend to fly towards light, you are most likely to know they’re there when the flying beetles hit your lighted window panes.

This very attraction for the light has become one of our best weapons in controlling the pest in its adult stage. You can set up a grass grub beetle trap by placing a trough, such as the one used when wall-papering, directly underneath a window near a grassed area.

Fill the trough with water to about two-

By adding a sheet of ply or something similar over the top of the tank, you will ensure that the light shines only through the sides of the tank above the waiting water and kerosene.

It is better to use a dome-shaped battery-powered light rather than an ordinary torch for this job as the bigger light makes the trap more effective.

If the tray and tank are raised off the ground and placed on something like a table, you will get an even better result.

However you set up your beetle trap, this is a very good method to dispose of the pests. Simply get rid of all the beetles caught the next morning.

Skilled predator trappers graduate

By Chris Valli

Two Blenheim ‘predator free’ apprentices are set to impose their mark in the conservation industry.

Keegan Miskimmin and Simon Lamb have been apprentice ecologists for the past two years with Blenheim based Wildlife Management International.

T hey both have had some epic experiences such as monitoring seabird colonies and working on remote wildlife islands.

The Predator Free Apprenticeship Programme aims to grow the number of experienced animal pest control

specialists to support the predator free vision.

The two year programme provides a career path for people wanting to work in predator control and will increase the capacity and capability of the sector. The programme, f u nded by the DOC Kaimahi for Nature fund, is a ‘walk alongside’ programme where apprentices are hosted by experienced pest control specialists.

The goal is to help foster a passion for the work, and the species it protects and provide practical experience with a range of predator control tools, techniques and projects. WMIL hosts

five apprentices, two (Keegan and Simon) who are about to graduate.

“The key assets for any apprentice have been passion for the environment and birds with a clear motivation to work in the conservation sector, focusing on the predator control and community engagement aspects of each project,” says Elizabeth.

“Keegan is passionate about birds and has learnt how to complete clear research objectives in research projects, while being able to engage with the community and general public about the importance of the work and the steps taken to protect NZ taonga species.

Intermediate School Market Day, December 7.

FRONT; Liv Horsenail, Kaea Kaimoana, Bella Campion. BACK; Katherine De-Zwart and Emma Burton.

Year 8 students Max Joyce and Lucas Simmons. Chase O’Brien and Tom Musgrove.

Sophie Rickerby, Teacher Olivia Pinkerton and Kymaine King.

Ollie Mattock (Year 7) and Alexia Jones (Year 8).

Year 7 students Olivia Valk and Chloe Johnstone.

Year 8 students Sam Jones and Will Atkinson.

Ruby Lindstrom, Lizzie Gibbons and Jess Kelly.

Mitchell Spence and Marshall Coles - Year 7.

Part time Gardener and Lawn Mower required

At Springlands Lifestyle Village we are very proud of our well-maintained and presented grounds, with summer on its

New year opportunities – Job Vacancies

Construction – Full time with probation period. Only experience need to apply!

The Company, Clarke’s drainage & developments are a local based company in the Marlborough region delivering a diverse range of drainage & civil infrastructure across the board. Clarke’s drainage prides itself on delivering value for money for its clients and sharing its success with its Team. We are a fast growing company with multiple ongoing works scheduled for the new year. The opportunity, Clarke’s drainage & developments are looking for experienced staff to join the team.

• Excellent wage & generous remuneration package.

• Permanent positions.

• Opportunity to increase your leadership skills.

Desired skills/licence & experience,

• Drainage registration (would have advantage)

• Class 2 or full licenced & R.T.W

• Strong work ethic & leadership skills.

• Plan & coordinate day to day works.

• Sound understanding of Civil scope.

• Sound plant operating.

• Concrete placing/landscaping (would have advantage) Key responsibilities,

• Ensure compliance to site policies & procedures are met.

• Lead by example with the team.

• Daily time sheets.

• Maintaining equipment.

• Honest/trustworthy & reliable is a must!

Our Culture, Clarke’s drainage & developments is a tight knit team, led by 2 owners Manahi & Kelly, our business rewards performance & loyalty with opportunities to grow your career with the business. How to apply,

If this opportunity sounds like something you would like to be a part of in the new year, send your current CV with cover letter to info@clarkesdrainage.co.nz

Applicants must have NZ residency or working visa.

Winemaking

space available

Wine Workshop at Mahi

Our winery will have space for about 150 tonne of white tank capacity in the coming vintage and going forward.

Careful, personal winemaking at a smaller facility allows more contact and access to your fruit and wine so if you require any space please get in touch with me at brian@mahiwine.co.nz or 021671631.

All enquiries treated in confidence.

what’s on in marlborough

Friday 16 December

Vintage Farm Machinery: Open daily, 10am to 3pm, Brayshaw Vintage Farm. Phone John 577 7442.

Marlborough Museum: Open daily, 10am to 4pm, free entry to the museum on Saturdays. Brayshaw Heritage Park, 26 Arthur Baker Place. 03 578 1712.

Saturday 17 December

Crop Swap: Saturday 17th December, 2:00-4:00pm, Crossroads - 2 Redwood Street. $2 koha to our hosts - Sharing abundance from our gardens: Fruit, vegetables, preserves, relishes, jams, herbs, eggs, flowers, seedlings, baking; - Giving generously and mindfully taking. Further details 027 372 2897

Blenheim Chess Club: Meets at Delicia Café, Scott Street, every Saturday 10am – 1pm. All welcome.

Repair Cafe: We’ll fix your small repair on site, on the day while you wait and have a cuppa. Sewing/darning, bikes, small furniture/wooden items, toys; electronic items and mobile phones.  Every 4th Saturday monthly. John’s Kitchen, 2 Redwood St. Donations for repairs accepted.  Enquiries to Gerrie 0273030762.

Sounds SeniorNet: Meet at the newly refurbished Linkwater Hall for Saturday information afternoons at 2pm. Entry free and afternoon tea provided. Everyone is welcome.

Whitehead Park Bowing Club, Redwoodtown: Saturdays mainly tournaments from 9.30am to 3pm. All welcome. Contact John 573 9086. Also Mondays and Wednesdays. Summer timetable starts October.

Sunday 18 December

Marlborough Farmers’ Market: 9am-noon. Marlborough A&P Showgrounds. Fresh produce from your local farmers. Tasty line up of fresh and seasonal, gourmet and artisan produce and products that this region has to offer.

Picton Rail and Sail: On the Foreshore - mini train rides and mini yacht hire to sail on our pond every Sunday 11am-3pm, operating every day during school holidays. Only 20 cents per ride/yacht hire!

Blenheim Bonsai Group: Islington Gardens, Rowberry Road on the 2nd Sunday of the month 1pm3.30pm.

Marlborough Tennis Club: 3pm to 5pm Parker St. Every Sunday– Social Tennis. Non Members $2 All welcome. Contact: Joanna 027 578 6436

Blenheim Country Music Club Day: Door entry fees; $4 per non-member, $3 per financial club member. Afternoon tea provided. Singers and performers are welcome. Held fortnightly, starts at 2pm, finishes 5pm. Contacts: George 0211467140 or John 0273555209 for information.

Ulysses Rides Calendar: Sunday Rides depart Railway Station carpark as listed. Thursday Rides depart Brayshaw Park carpark 11am. Every Saturday, Coffee at The Runway Cafe 10am. All Rides are weather dependent.

Monday 19 December

Marlborough Stamp Collectors Club: 34 Arthur Baker Pace. Phone 021 157 3496 for more information.

Rotary Clubs in Blenheim: Monday & Tuesday evenings at 5.30pm. Rotary is a world-wide service club for men and women – doing great things in your community. For further phone Kevin on 0211 738 784.

Blenheim Scottish Country Dance Club: Every Monday at 7.30pm at Whitney Street School Hall, Whitney Street. Come and try it! You don’t need a partner. For information ring Miriam 928 4479.

Blenheim Badminton Club: Every Monday: Juniors 5.30-7pm, seniors 7-9pm, St Mary’s Hall, corner Francis and Hudson Streets. Anna or Mike, email blenheimshuttlers@gmail.com.

Whitehead Park Bowling Club, Redwoodtown: Every Monday afternoon from 12.30pm to 3pm. All welcome. Contact Mike 572 4013 or John 577 5295. Summer timetable starts October.

Tuesday 20 December

Toastmasters Club: In Blenheim meets 6.30pm every second Tuesday. Friendly group encourage shy people how to give a speech, how to tell stories, how to make business presentations etc. Ideal for young people entering the workforce. Older adults are welcome to share their experiences. No charge for guests. Contact: Brian Morris 0211922936.

Art therapy group for pregnant women: Every Tuesday 5pm to 8pm. Call Tatiana 027 901 9807.

Persistent Pain Group: Meet every Tuesday at Biddy Kates , 2 Market Street, 5pm-6pm. For people with persistent and chronic pain and their supporters. All welcome.

Picton Line Dance Classes: 10am Anglican Church Hall 10am. $6 per class. Beginners Welcome. Enquires Carol 0212125252 / Raewyn 021715484.

SAYGO (Steady As You Go): Balance/Exercise Class Tues 11:30am-12:30pm St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld Street, followed by a cuppa & chat. Cost $2. Sign in & marks please. Phone Diana Brooks 0212694198 Eldercare Coordinator.

Marlborough Tennis Club: Parker St. Every Tuesday 9am to 12 Noon - Social Tennis. Morning Tea 10.30am. Non Members $5. All welcome. Contact: Joanna 027 578 6436.

Coming Up

Craft Fair Havelock Town Hall: Dec 31st, Jan 1st & 2nd. 10am – 4pm daily. Free entry, sausage sizzle, lots of crafts. Supporting Simply The Breast Dragon Boat Team.

KNIGHT, Elizabeth (Liz): 22 November 2022. Elizabeth’s family would like to thank you for your kindness with phone calls, flowers, cards, baking and attending the service. We truly value your love and support you have given us.

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

Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non urgent 578 0797.

After Hours Chemists: After Hours Chemists: Springlands Pharmacy: Mon 19 Dec - Fri 23rd Dec 8.30am - 6pm. Sat 24 Dec 9am - 4pm. Christmas Day - closed. Boxing Day 10am - 4pm. Tue 27 Dec 10am - 4pm. Wed 28 Dec - Fri 30 Dec 8.30am - 6pm. Sat 31 Dec 9am - 4pm. New Years Day 10am - 4pm. Mon 2 Jan - Tue 3 Jan 10am - 4pm. Wed 4 Jan - Fri 6 Jan 8.30am - 6pm. Sat 7 Jan onwards back to regular hours.

Community Care Pharmacy: Within the Blenheim Warehouse, open 7 days 9am8pm. 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 9.30am4pm. Phone 578 4272.

Wairau Hospital: Hospital Visiting Hours: Daily 2.30pm - 8pm, 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

BARR, Patricia Magdalen (née Hartigan): On Thursday, December 8, 2022, at Nelson Hospital, surrounded by family. Aged 80 years. Loved wife of Lindsay (deceased), adored mother of Lorraine (deceased), Janette, Michael (deceased), Tony, and Leon. Cherished grandmother of many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Special thanks to the amazing nurses on Ward 9 and all the other staff who supported and helped at Nelson Hospital. Messages may be sent to the Barr Family, c/- Janette Schwass, 26 Alfread Sheat Street, Richmond, Nelson 7020. A service for Patricia was held at the Kingdom Hall, Taylor Pass Road on Tuesday December 13 followed by interment at Fairhall Cemetery

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

HERD, Jeffrey William: K-Force, Service No. 208268. Passed away at Redwood Lifestyle Care and Village, on Friday December 9, 2022. Aged 95 years. Dearly loved husband of Ngaire for 67 years. Loved father and father-in-law of Warren and Lynda, Tonia and Michael Ryan (Timaru). Loved Grandad of Phillipa and Hayden, Brendan (deceased), Kerryn and Allan Sim. Great grandad of Harry, Oliver, George and wee Aurora. Special friend to Julie Carter. Loved uncle and great uncle. Respected friend of Michael’s daughters and their families. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Redwood Lifestyle for their care over the last two years, Jan Smith, Pam Askew and Joy Ashby for their care and support. Also thanks to Dawn and Donna from Driving Miss Daisy. Messages may be sent to the Herd Family, 61 Wither Road, Witherlea, Blenheim 7201. No flowers by request please. At Jeff’s request a private cremation has taken place.

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

In Memoriam

Death notices

GIBSON: Ronald (Ron): On 2 December 2022 at the Marlborough Hospice, aged 76. In accordance with Ron’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place. To view the full notice please visit our website www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

Cloudy Bay Funerals

03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z.

PRESCOTT: Derek Francis: On 8th December 2022 at Marlborough Hospice, Blenheim aged 69 years. A celebration of Derek’s life will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street, Blenheim on Wednesday 14th December at 1pm followed by private cremation. To view the full notice please visit our website www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

Cloudy Bay Funerals

03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z.

For Sale

MARSHALL: Aaron Raymond: On 5 December 2022, peacefully after a long illness. A private cremation has taken place. To view the full notice please visit our website www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

Cloudy Bay Funerals

03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z.

To Let

Public Notices

Wanted to Buy

Interesting parcels required

Mahi is looking to expand our grower network and are looking to work with growers with smaller parcels, around two hectares and above.

As we are growing, we require all our key varieties, being Sauvignon, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

If you are looking to team up with a smaller, personal wine company please get in touch with me at brian@mahiwine.co.nz or 021671631.

All enquiries treated in confidence.

By Russell

talk

NZR’s game of chicken on Razor’s edge

So what happens now with Scott Robertson and New Zealand Rugby?

Eddie Jones’ departure from England leaves a tasty job open on the market with a World Cup just around the corner.

Speculation appears the English are keen on one of their own, Scott Borthwick, to take up the role but there has been discussion around Robertson and the man himself has flirted with England about what a

great role it would be.

With Jones’ departure, it means New Zealand Rugby should feel some pressure not to lose their most talented coach to offshore hands.

It means there have been calls for Robertson to be appointed for beyond the 2023 World Cup as soon as possible which would be a huge break with tradition for the NZR.

Personally, I can’t see that happening.

The NZR are set in their ways and largely out of touch with the public.

Equally, appointing Robertson now would make All Blacks coach Ian Foster look like a lame duck in the role.

Warren Gatland, upon his departure from the Chiefs back to Wales, said Robertson deserved his opportunity and the rugby brass should be doing all they can to keep him.

That’s logical and if I was a betting

man, and I am, I’d say Robertson is frustrated how the past 12 months has played out but he is willing to wait until after this World Cup to be named the All Blacks coach.

If, for some outlandish reason, he doesn’t get that role, he’ll likely be off to Australia or Europe for a deserved international role.

The NZR and Robertson are engaging in a slow, drawn-out game of chicken.

Who will blink first? Ultimately, I think it will be NZR.

The reality is no foreigner has ever been head coach of the All Blacks and that’s unlikely to change any time soon.

With that in mind, there are two options. Jamie Joseph and Robertson. However, if Robertson wants it beyond 2023, he should have first option.

His career success demands it.

Blenheim Croquets 90th Birthday

By Chris Valli

90 years ago there was a series of riots in New Zealand during the world-wide economic depression of 1932. While the riots were capturing the landscape a Blenheim pioneer went about her business in setting up what is now known as the Blenheim Croquet Club.

Tomorrow, December 15, marks 90 years of the Blenheim Croquet Club.

Publicity Officer David Grigg says one Jeanie Young was the prime mover in establishing the Blenheim Croquet Club. She called a meeting on August 11, 1931 at which 18 to 20 women attended.

The meeting was held in the Malplaquet Tea Rooms and from that the decision was made to form a croquet club.

Amongst those present were: Mesdames Young, Bull, Huddleston, Wilkinson, Renner, Monro, Lorrance, Webley, Cook, Couch, Harrison, Buist, Hart, Scott, Findlay and Miss Smith.

Officers elected all those years ago were; President, Mrs Young. Secretary,

Mrs Huddleston. Committee, Mesdames Wilkinson, Renner, Monro, Lorrance, Cook.

From early beginnings the Club prospered and at a general meeting held on September 18, 1931 a decision was made to name the club the Blenheim Croquet Club.

The Blenheim Borough Council offered ground for courts in Seymour St. for £15 a season.

David says by coincidence the club lawns were originally located at the very site where the Marlborough District Council Offices now are, directly opposite the clock in Seymour Square.

The Plunket Room conveniences were also offered for club use at 5 shillings per year.

The Club opening day was held on December 15 1932.

The weather was delightful and there was a large attendance including members from Picton Croquet Club. His Worship Mr. McKenzie and Mayoress Mrs McKenzie and Mr. W.F. Strand,

Mayor of Lower Hutt donated a seat. Mr. Healey M.P., Mr. Bull (Town Clerk) all spoke and Mrs T. Flood spoke on behalf of the Picton Club. His Worship the Mayor Mr. McKenzie played the first ball and declared the season open.

In 1955, the club commenced discussions with the Blenheim Borough Council about moving the club to Pollard Park which was subsequently moved to on Saturday September 17 by R. Gill and Sons.

In 1987 the club built new clubrooms on Pollard Park to replace the original building. In 2006 the clubrooms were significantly enlarged. In 2009 the club implement shed was enlarged considerably.

The club now has facilities as well as any and is blessed with four championship quality lawns and a clubhouse complete with new carpet.

David says to mark the significant occasion the club will be having games followed by a BBQ at the club room in Parker Street. All are welcome.

Sat 10th Dec: Summer Stableford: Robin Lacey 40, Robyn Pupich 38, Yvonne Wallace 36, Elaine Brown 35, Bill Linklater 35, Bill Lacey 34, Brian Roughan 34, John McLauchlan 33, Dene Cross 33, Sam Rutherford 33. Twos: Dene Cross

7 Dec: Diana Pye Stableford Div.1:Lizzie Turnbull 36, Janet Leith 33, Pru Jensen 31. Div.1: Ann Duncan 37, Lyndy Larkin 35, Elaine Porter 34, Helen Lissaman 34.

8 Dec: Men’s stableford Div.1: Dave Knappstein 38, John Muir 38, Robin Whiting 37. Div.2:Jock Glennie 43, Jeff Clarke 40, Paul Eden 39, John Wadsworth 39, Malcolm McKenzie 37. 10 Dec: Women’s stableford Div.1:Marilyn Keenan 39, Julie Nicolle 39. Div.2:Lucy Jefferis 35, Annette Wilkinson 34, Elaine Porter 33. Men’s stableford Div.1:Yuichi Ando 41, Mike MacLeod 39, Peter Marfell 37. Div.2: Scott Allen 38, Mark George 37, Hugh Bay 36. Div.3: Paul Eden 38, Jeff Clarke 37, Hans Blohm 36.

Mon 12 Dec: Individual: 1.Roy Lilly (Blenheim) 41 points; 2. Richard Anderson, Jock Glennie (Marlborough) 39 points; 4. Jellie Keizer (Picton) 38 points; 5: George Mitchinson (Marlborough), Tom Kelsall (Marlborough) 37 points; 7. Keith Doonan (Awatere), Mike Gardiner (Blenheim), Werner Pluss (Marlborough) 36 points; 10. Stuart McLagan (Blenheim), John McLauchlan (Wairau Valley) 35 points.

Team: 1st Blenheim #1: Jim Findlay, Mike Gardiner, Stuart McLagan and Roy Lilly 112 points. 2nd Picton #1: 105 points. 3rd Marlborough #1: 103 points.

Next Tournament: Monday 9th January 2023 at Marlborough Golf Club.

Jeanie Young dressed on her wedding day, was the driving force behind the club and first president.