24 May Blenheim Sun Newspaper

Flying high

By Chris Valli

‘Scary, wicked, choice’.

That was some of the vernacular expressed by Spring Creek School students last Thursday morning.

It’s not every day you get to fly in a hot air balloon at primary school. Yet that was the opportunity for Year 5 and 6 students who have been working on The Flying High Project which saw them take flight in the balloon, tethered to the ground and rising to about 30 metres in altitude.

Continued on page 2.

HOT AIR EXCITEMENT: Spring Creek school students about to take off in the balloon.

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Spring Creek children flying high

Continued from page 1. The Flying High Project has developed a STEAM education programme with the help of STEAM p r ofessionals to encourage and inspire kids to take up STEAM subjects and careers. STEAM Education is an approach to learning that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics as access points for guiding s t udent inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking.

Year 6 student Jordan Tootell says riding in the balloon was ‘really warm’. “I wasn’t scared at all,” he says. “Learning about the Maori history to where we live has been cool.”

Parents spoken to said it was a wonderful opportunity for the school and their own children.

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Maori based on the thought that ‘in order to know where you’re going, you need to know where you’ve come from.’

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Year 3-6 teacher Sarah Macdonald has a class of 16 students. She says the Year 5 and 6 students have been independently engaged during literacy working on their Google Slide presentations with added value learning in the Te Ao Maori component with links to kinship, where all the elements of creation are interrelated through whakapapa (ancestory).

“They’ve really been into the Te Ao Maori component of the learning and sustainability,” says Sarah. “They’ve been enjoying the Teaspoon of Change (a personal choice or decision which might have a positive impact on people and the planet”).

Principal Cheryl Alderlieste says the students have developed a greater understanding of Matauranga

As a result they have been working on finding practical and innovative sustainability solutions for themselves and the community.

The programme’s unique use of a hot air balloon gave kids a bird’s eye view of the students surroundings and a broader perspective, like the Kāhu, (harrier hawk), a central figure in the education programme.

Meanwhile, Spring Creek School is celebrating 150 years this year.

The school is looking for support to organize the special event so they can create an unforgettable experience for current and former students, teachers, and the wider community

If you would like to be involved in organising the celebration or have anything to share, they would love to hear from locals.

Contact the school office on 5705514 or email Cheryl Alderliste at principal@springcreek.school.nz.

Year 6 Spring Creek student Jordan Tootell says riding in the balloon was ‘really warm’. “I wasn’t scared at all,” he says. “Learning about the Maori history to where we live has been cool.”

Say goodbye with dignity and honour

Our team of professional funeral directors are here to support you and your loved ones during this difficult time.

With compassion, respect, and attention to detail, we’ll ensure your farewell is a celebration of life.

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PuBliSHerS

Spring Creek School whanau await in excitement.

Bob Barnes | Barry Holmwood | Ethan Williams | Terry Ryan

60 Years of Service and counting

By Chris Valli

As the weather cools down the Blenheim Lions Club firewood crew are hard at work splitting and stacking firewood in order to meet the demands from agency referrals for a trailer load of wood.

Blenheim Lions Immediate Past

President Helen Williams says the stacks of wood being prepared all summer will provide 40 ‘cubby holes’ daily to help keep the community warm.

“The money raised from this supply is to be sold over June and July and will be donated back to local charities. The Blenheim Lions club will take time out this month to celebrate 60 years of service to the community.”

Helen says over 60 years has seen many different community service projects completed ranging from one off tasks such as painting at the local kindergarten to long term projects like coordinating the annual mistletoe market.

“During the last two months Lions members have delivered the telephone books, coordinated and manned the 16 Life Flight Trust collection sites and successfully undertaken parking over two sites for the Saint Clair Half Marathon,” says Helen.

Also on the calendar and for book lovers is the Lions annual book fair scheduled for Thursday 22 to Sunday 25 June at Waterlea Racecourse building. Collection bins for donated books will be out in the supermarkets and at Mega Mitre 10 from Friday 9

June. All funds raised will be donated back to charity.

Helen says in the 2021-2022 Lions year members gave over 5000 volunteer hours over 98 community service activities with an estimated 7468 people served. Funds raised enabled Blenheim Lions to donate $20,300 to local charities such as Alzheimers Marlborough, Foodbank, Drug Arm Marlborough, Child Cancer, CARE foundation and Blenheim School.

“Lions are ordinary people from all walks of life who enjoy getting together and doing good things. Lions are kind and generous people who want to help in

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the community. That is why Lions work on projects to improve our communities and protect the environment. Blenheim Lions also run a predator trapping line on the Opaoa River.”

“We get enormous satisfaction from the knowledge that what we do does make a difference. And we enjoy friendship and fun while doing so,” says Helen. “Whenever Lions club members get together, problems get smaller. Communities get better because Lions help where help is needed in their own communities and around the world.”

Helen says nationally, Lions have recently completed a ther-

apeutic play scape at the new Wellington Regional Children’s Hospital while ‘sufficient funds’ and grants have just been collected to build a new personal intensive care unit at Starship Hospital.

A ‘special evening’ of 60 years will be held at the Scenic Hotel Marlborough tonight where three prestigious individual life memberships to Lions Club International are to be made. If you are keen to help in your community and would like to be part of this enthusiastic group of men and women contact Delphine Lee 029 942 5004 or Helen Williams 021 1458 572

Sun The

Young people experiencing acute mental distress

Too many young people experiencing acute mental distress are being admitted to adult inpatient mental health services, according to a Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission report.

The report examined the trends in admitting young people (aged 12 to 17 years) to adult inpatient mental health services in New Zealand and reflects on perspectives from young people, whānau and family who have experienced admissions to adult facilities.

Te Hiringa Mahara Board Chair Hayden Wano says in the last year alone, 159 young people aged 12-17 years were admitted to adult mental health inpatient services - this is one quarter of young people who were admitted for inpatient mental health care.

Library experiences a busy start

Marlborough Libraries Manager Glenn Webster says it’s been a very busy week, 10 days since the new Marlborough Library on High Street, Blenheim opened last Friday.

“We’ve been completely blown away at the level of interest and would like to thank everyone who has come in so far,” he said. “It has been demanding on our library team – quite a few are new and only just finding their feet - but everyone has been excited to welcome the community into their new space.”

“There are still a few things to be installed such as signage and public online catalogues but they are on the horizon. “

More than 6,300 books were borrowed during the first four days after opening and 10,100 books were returned.

“We hosted more than 6,800 visitors to the library in the same time period,” said Mr Webster. “These numbers are by far the highest we’ve ever seen in Marlborough. It’s a wonderful problem to have but we’d appreciate being able to find some down time before too long.”

NICE AND TOASTY: Members of the Blenheim Lions Club firewood crew Lindsay Newdick, Glen Mcalister, Maurice Cresswell, Delphine Lee last week. Blenheim Lions Immediate Past President Helen Williams says the stacks of wood being prepared all summer will provide 40 ‘cubby holes’ daily to help keep the community warm. A ‘special evening’ of 60 years will be held at the Scenic Hotel Marlborough tonight where three prestigious individual life memberships to Lions Club International are to be made.

Marlborough’s firefighters rise to Sky Challenge

By Chris Valli

On Saturday over thirty of the region’s firefighters competed in the annual Sky Tower challenge in Auckland. This is an event where each person races the 1103 steps to the top of the tower wearing their protective clothing and equipment weighing up to 25kg.

Marlborough was well represented on the podium with a gold, two silvers and one bronze across the different categories.

Andy Luffman of Rarangi finished first in his age group. ‘It’s a great event to be part of,’ says Andy. ‘As a region we raised over $56,000 and that goes towards research and support of people living with

leukaemia. I think that anyone who helped with the fundraising, or who put their hand in their pocket, should feel proud of that.’ Run as a charity event collectively the firefighters raised nearly $1.5m for Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand.

Of those competing, 120 were women, approximately a twenty per cent increase from the previous year.

Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand provides essential support for patients and their families, as well as funding research into blood cancer and raising awareness and advocating for patients.

Every day, eight Kiwis are diagnosed with blood cancer or a related blood condition.

Rarangi crew: back row Julie Luffman, Stephanie Neal, Mel Forman.

Front - Janelle White, Bree Freeman.

TOPP PIC THAT: Steve Smith, Jools Topp and Rob Horsenail.

Blenheim Toyota

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Dame Malvina Major Awards available

Talented young performing artists in Marlborough and across the country are being offered a financial boost thanks to the Dame Malvina Major Foundation.

The Foundation’s Arts Excellence Awards support young New Zealanders of outstanding ability in the classical performing arts who are preparing for a professional career. Administered by local volunteer committees, the awards have historically only been available to young artists where those committees are based – Auckland/Waikato, Taranaki, Wellington and Christchurch.

Dame Malvina says the Foundation was keen to ensure no one missed out on the opportunity for an award due to geography. As a result the committees will distribute funding for four regions – Upper North Island (north of Taupo), Lower North Island (Taupo south, including Hawke’s Bay), Taranaki and the South Island.

For more information and to apply, visit www.dmmfoundation.org.nz/grantsscholarships/arts-excellence-awards/

Last autumn The Sun published a story about my attempts to get the MDC to lower the canopy of an ash tree overhanging my back garden.

Sadly facing painful surgery I did not have the energy to take the case to the small claims court.

I heard nothing further from the council who in your story told a big porky by saying MDC trees were regularly inspected. Bulldust!

In the 20 years I have lived here it has been trimmed - thinned - at my request once and I have never seen a council employee ‘inspecting’ it.

So it has grown huge.

The tree is well over the height of our two

storey house, overhangs our property even more, blocks light into our garden and the leaves, as ever, make a big mess, blocking the gutters and the drain at the end of the driveway.

A council employee helped me fill out a request to have the tree removed.

I heard nothing more.

A few weeks later when I enquired not surprisingly there was no record of the request. It had ‘disappeared’. And the council wants to put the rates up. For what may I ask?

To sit on their backsides, ignore citizens and ratepayers and do sweet nothing.

Claire Stewart

Okay, I’m flummoxed.

The experts in AI, whose intelligence exceeds mine to about the degree that the wealth of the Lords of the Internet exceeds my wealth, appear to believe that the rise of AI, Actual Intelligence, silicon-based as opposed to carbon-based, can be prevented.

Phooey.

The unimaginable wealth the public are pouring into computer tech will continue making the silicon chip an ever more integral part of human affairs, so that, willy-nilly, the chance of logic and rationality

must get more and more influence. I certainly am in fear of the computer as it now is, dominated by bureaucrats but even more so by the purveyors of pornography, gaming and fantasy and of course the disinformation wellsprings.

Silicon-based intelligence, in the name of waste elimination strategies, will rule out creatures like Putin and Bashir al Assad and a host of lessor creators of destruction, who will no longer dominate the biosphere. Tough on assault-rifle salesmen, eh!

Bill Hovey

New citizens celebrated Springlands stormwater meeting next Tuesday

Twenty five people from 16 different countries have become Marlborough citizens.

The new citizens, from Nepal, the United Kingdom, Tonga, India, Fiji, the Philippines, Samoa, Argentina, Spain, the Czech Republic, Taiwan, Japan, Germany and South Africa were recently welcomed to Marlborough.

Mayor Nadine Taylor told the group they would all, in future, enjoy the rights and freedoms of native-born New Zealanders. In welcoming them she said the day was an important milestone in their new lives as citizens.

“Your decision to apply for citizenship was no doubt made after very careful consideration and is a commitment to your future,” she said. “It is not a rejection of your past but in future your first loyalty will be to New Zealand.”

Following the Mayor’s opening address and the presentation of certificates, Council’s kapa haka group performed for the new citizens and their friends and families.

During the ceremony several of the recipients sang a waiata after receiving their certificates.

Springlands residents are invited to hear about stormwater issues in their area. A public meeting at Springlands School at 5.00 pm on Tuesday 30 May will provide information on water quality in local streams and look at future stormwater management projects.

Registrations of interest for the formation of a Springlands stormwater governance group will also be sought.

Council’s Stormwater Lead Jon Cunliffe said the meeting will start with a presentation by Freshwater Scientist Karen Shearer from the Cawthron Institute.

Karen is a freshwater ecologist and will give the results of water quality monitoring carried out in streams and creeks in the Springlands area.

Mr Cunliffe will give a short update on projects including Camerons Creek and Murphys Creek.

The meeting will be chaired by Jim Sinner, Social Services Manager from the Cawthron Institute. He will also chair the governance group once it is formed – which will consist of Springlands residents, iwi and stakeholders. Stormwater has been topical in the area for many years and Mr Cunliffe said forming a governance group will ensure community involvement in future projects.

new citizens

AF8 Roadshow 2023

The Science Beneath Our Feet

Mānawatia te Kahui o Matariki Fund/ Marlborough Matariki Event Fund open for applications

Are you part of an organisation planning to hold an event to recognise Te Rā Aro ki a Matariki?

We can’t predict earthquakes, but we can prepare for them!

Friday 26th May, 5.30pm Waikawa Marae

In the afternoon, senior students from Waikawa Bay School will join in interactive activities to learn about our landscape and how it moves in earthquakes.

In the evening, we invite the Waikawa community to join us at the Marae at 5.30pm to learn about earthquakes, how the next large Alpine Fault earthquake could impact our community and what we can all do to be better prepared.

Council is seeking applications for the Mānawatia te Kahui o Matariki Fund which celebrates and supports the regeneration and sustainability of mātauranga Māori associated with Te Kāhui o Matariki. Councillor Jonathan Rosene, who will chair the panel awarding the funding, said it’s is a great way of elevating the importance of Māori culture and heritage within our community.

“I welcome the opportunity to chair this panel which will see Matariki stories and events come to life in Marlborough. They will provide a platform for our community to learn more about Māori and share in the importance of Matariki,” he said.

Council’s Arts Culture and Heritage Project Lead, Nicola Neilson said the contestable fund, which is now open for applications, aims to support the community in hosting events that recognise not only Te Rā Aro ki a Matariki, the public holiday, but also the wider kaupapa and principles of Matariki.

“The fund supports venue and equipment hire, promotion and other costs,” she said. For more information or to apply, go to: www.marlborough.govt.nz/recreation/ events/manawatia-te-kahui-o-matariki-fundmarlborough-matariki-community-event-fund

Applications for the 2023 funding round close at 5.00 pm Friday 9 June 2023.

Fultons Creek – one of the many creeks in the Springlands area

Mayor Taylor with Marlborough’s

Technology support – ‘we can be taught’

The proverb ‘you can’t teach an old dog new tricks’ doesn’t wash with Blenheim’s Joan Heath.

The 89-year-old is changing her ICT habits and is ‘upskilling’. Indeed for the older generation where new information processing is generally more challenging, it can be a source of anxiety.

“There used to be a program and a class through senior citizens,” she says. “But with Trish (Dawson, Team Leader) and this program she just zooms in on it.”

Joan tells this writer ‘she is nervous about talking to a journalist’. When asked why, she confesses, ‘you know all about technology and all the bells and whistles’. I reassure her that I still own a cassette tape player with ‘auto reverse’ as an option which comforts her somewhat, albeit for a brief moment.

Presbyterian Support Services run the Tōtara Club in Alfred Street which provides older people with a safe, warm and friendly place to socialise. The Club also includes Tōtara Tech, a free service which helps members use technology in everyday life.

Sessions are held once a week as part of the usual Tōtara day programme, but are optional for those that want to join in. They include one on one lessons to start, and then advance to include engagement with other members.

Activities begin with familiarising members with the technology and then develop to trickier tasks such as taking pictures with tablets, attaching and sending photos using email and selecting music through apps such as Spotify.

The service is set to teach members vital technology skills for use with

not just standard desktop computers, but also laptops, mobile phones, and tablets, as well as other hardware such as the UE (ultimate ears) Boom speaker.

Joan says learning how to use technology one on one has allowed her to learn at her own pace.

“Some of them are just far too sophisticated for what I need. Seeing videos of great grandchildren is lovely but they just come and go on the screen far too quickly to keep up.” Meanwhile, REAP Marlborough’s Coordinator (for) Digital Support Kate Horrey says her role is to help ‘bridge the digital divide’ for seniors and confesses she is not a digital expert.

“If I don’t get it, Trish stops and explains it to me which is wonderful. I’m then able to write it down and that’s how I remember and use a reference book,” she says. “Older people are going have to do something like this, there are no cheque books now. It’s (technology) there and I’m learning to do it. Not many people my age have the likes of cell phones here.”

She has also learnt how to use ‘those little square things you see’. Those ‘square things’ are QR codes, used for storing URLs (uniform resource locater or a web address) to provide ‘easy access’ to online information through a smartphone or tablet.

“Is that what you call it,” she inquires. “I had no idea what it was called. Yes, Trish has taught us how to do that also. I’ve also learned to take icons off my laptop. I’ve had several things on it that I just don’t use anymore. I’ve also learnt about Apple – a lot of people don’t like using Apple you know.”

“I know what it feels like to be confronted by technology and finding your way around it,” she says. “If people are struggling there is help available. There are so many places you can go within the community, especially for individuals, like at the Citizens Advice Bureau or the new library. REAP Marlborough computer courses but also offers free 1:1 sessions for seniors through the ‘Better Digital Futures’ programme and Adult Literacy Aoteaora has a whole suite of courses available.

Kate encourages those who may find digital technology tough or not working the first time to try a different approach by asking someone new.

“We all learn differently. For some people it might be coming to a REAP course, for others it might be one on one.” A list of local resources can be found at https://www.reapmarlborough.co.nz/digital-tech-support or ring Kate and she will send out a hard copy brochure of local sources of free and low cost help

As for Joan, the best thing about the technology learning is that she is activating her inquiring mind.

“What I don’t know I’ll work away until I find out,” she says. “I can look up anything I want to look up online. I think my vocab is better than some people so that helps.”

Blenheim is leading the way in teaching technology skills to older people and, in turn, helping to reduce social isolation issues. Joan Heath talked to Chris Valli about the Totara Tech program at Presbyterian Support.

“If I don’t get it, Trish stops and explains it to me which is wonderful.”

TECH TOTARA CLUB MEMBERS Sally, Joan and John.

Joan Heath says she is learning at her own pace which is ‘wonderful’.

Awatere Early Learning held a Pink Ribbon event over the weekend to raise money for Breast Cancer Foundation NZ. Teachers got baking and coffee and cake was on the menu for morning tea. Joining them were people from the local Seddon community as well as many who travelled from Blenheim. Around fifty people attended and the morning tea was enjoyed by all.

The teaching team of AELC would like to thank everyone who donated and supported this fundraiser. It is a cause close to their hearts and they are absolutely thrilled with the result. To date over $3000 has been raised and if anyone would like to donate to this extremely worthy cause they can using this link https://pinkribbonbreakfast.co.nz/page/ awatereearlylearningcentre

From left: Cathy Puhipuhi, Joey Mortimer-Byrne, Angela Fitzpatrick, Rosie Chandra, Ashley O’Regan, and Leah Walker.

Two men arrested following a Blenheim drug bust

The search warrant was carried out last Wednesday with police and customs joining forces as a part of Operation Honeydew. Using detector dogs and specialist teams, the two organisations seized around 1.8kg of MDMA (ecstasy) carrying an estimated street value of $540,000, alongside 29g of ketamine. The ketamine’s

estimated street value is $7250.

Alongside the drugs, three vehicles and more than $130,000 worth of cryptocurrency were also seized as part of asset recovery.

Two men, a 22-year-old and a 23-year-old, have been hit with a number of drug importation charges.

The 22-year-old has appeared

before the Blenheim District court, charged with 19 counts of importation of a Class B drug (MDMA), possession of MDMA and possession of ketamine. He has been remanded in custody and reappeared in court on Monday. His accomplice, the 23-year-old, is charged with being a party to

importing MDMA. He was set to appear in court on Monday.

Further arrests have not been ruled out. The arrests come as police continue to work with customs to stop the importation of drugs into the area.

“Police are committed to investigating both individuals and organised criminal groups who

cause harm to the community through the distribution of controlled drugs,” Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Dye said. “We will ensure all legal steps possible are taken to disrupt their criminal activity, to put them before the court and to seize any assets or profits accumulated as a result.”

Welcome Steve Crockett to the Blenheim Real Estate Team

Options for future Marlborough Sounds transport network

The next phase of public engagement for the Marlborough Sounds Future Access Study starts on June 20.

The public will be asked for their views on an ‘emerging preferred option’ for each of the five storm-damaged areas of the Sounds. Information on other possible options will also be made available at next month’s meetings and online.

funding they will be able to provide or request from the Government.”

Mayor Taylor says she knows that Sounds residents have been living with damaged roads since mid2021 and want clarity about what is happening in the short, medium and long term.

Having spent the last 34 years building relationships with communities across Marlborough, you can put Steve at the top of your list when considering a move!

If you are looking for a salesperson with integrity, dedication, and knowledge to meet your needs, then give Steve a call.

Steve

Crockett

Licenced under the REAA 2008

Rural, Lifestyle, Residential Sales Consultant

M 021 066 0397

E steve.crockett@pggwrightson.co.nz

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An email will arrive every Wednesday morning where a link will take you directly to the latest edition of Blenheim’s local news along with reader favourites - ‘Text talk’, ‘Out and About’, Word on the Street plus local business advertorials and features.

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From June 20 - 28, seven community drop-in sessions will be held in Blenheim, Picton, around the Sounds and in Nelson. There will also be an online webinar for people who live outside Marlborough or who can’t make one of the drop-in meetings. A survey will seek the public’s input, with feedback due by July 11.

Mayor Nadine Taylor said this next phase of engagement follows eight months of technical analysis by engineering consultancy Stantec and community feedback from stakeholders and Sounds’ landowners, homeowners and businesses, garnered from a survey in February.

“The drop-in sessions and survey are for everyone with an interest in our Marlborough Sounds transport network to provide their views.

“Once we have completed this second round of engagement, Waka Kotahi will be able to consider all the analysis and feedback in our business case and make their decisions, which will include how much

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“We are getting closer to that with this second round of public discussion on the preferred and alternative options,” she says. “The options being presented will have high-level cost estimates that cover repairs from the August 2022 event, capital improvements and ongoing maintenance costs.

“What we won’t know at this stage is the funding mix between Government and Council, but as there will be a significant impact on rates, we will be asking both Sounds residents and Marlborough ratepayers as a whole what they might be willing to pay for a resilient transport network in the Sounds.

“I encourage people to come to a drop-in session to find out more and then to provide their views through the survey.”

Drop-in sessions

Tuesday 20 June 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Blenheim, Lansdowne Park Sports Hub

Wednesday 21 June 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Waitaria Bay Hall

The next phase of public engagement for the Marlborough Sounds Future Access Study starts on June 20. The public will be asked for their views on an ‘emerging preferred option’ for each of the five storm-damaged areas of the Sounds. Photo: Waka Kotahi / NZTA / Supplied.

Thursday 22 June

10:00 am – 12:00 pm

French Pass Hall

Friday 23 June

2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Linkwater Hall

Monday 26 June

10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Rai Valley, The Millers

Rest

Monday 26 June 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm Zoom online: h ttps:// us06web.zoom.us/j/8

1708059434

Wednesday 28 June 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm Port Marlborough Pavilion

Award-winners to feature at Marlborough Book Festival

By Chris Valli

Two of the winners of the prestigious 2023 Ockham New Zealand Book Awards will headline this year’s Marlborough Book Festival.

Catherine Chidgey and Nick Bollinger are among 16 authors who will speak at the festival to be held from Thursday July 20 to Sunday July 23 in Blenheim.

Chidgey won the prestigious Jann Medlicott Acorn Prize for Fiction for her book, The Axeman’s Carnival, at an award ceremony in Auckland last Wednesday. It’s the second time Chidgey has won this award – she also won in 2017 for her book The Wish Child.

The Ockham judges said Chidgey’s book was “a page-turning novel of depth, pathos and humanity that skilfully infuses comedy with a building sense of menace, narrated by a precocious magpie called Tama.”

Well known music broadcaster and writer Nick Bollinger won the Booksellers Aotearoa New Zealand Award for Illustrated Non-Fiction for his book, Jumping Sundays: The Rise and Fall of the Counterculture in Aotearoa New Zealand.

The award’s non-fiction convenor Jared Davidson said Bollinger had “written a compelling account of an epoch-making period, linking international trends to the local context in a purposeful-yet-playful way”.

The screenwriter and author Michael Bennett (Ngāti Pikiao, Ngāti Whakaue) (Better the Blood) and sailor and novelist Cristina Sanders (Mrs Jewell and the Wreck of the General Grant) are also heading to Blenheim for the festival. Bennett and Sanders, along with

Catherine Chidgey has won a prize for her novel The Axeman’s Carnival at the 2023 Ockham New Zealand Book Awards. She will appear with Nick Bollinger at The Marlborough Book Festival on from Friday 21 July to Sunday 23 July.

Monty Soutar (Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Awa, Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki, Ngāti Kahungunu) (Kāwai: For Such a Time as This), were all finalists along with Chidgey for the fiction award, which is worth $64,000.

Festival chair Sonia O’Regan said the festival wanted to congratulate the winners and all the finalists of the big award, and were excited to be able to host several of them in Blenheim in July, she said.

The ninth annual festival will be held at the ASB Theatre and in the new Marlborough Library and Art Gallery.

The festival is run by a charitable trust supported by sponsoring local businesses: Astrolabe, Cloudy Bay, Dog Point and Lawson’s Dry Hills, along with Gascoigne Wicks Lawyers, McKendry Motors, Jim Tannock Photography and Paper Plus Blenheim.

Toi showcases creativity

By Chris Valli

A wearable art competition in Nelson recently has allowed Bohally Year 8 student Caitlyn Forsyth to let her creativity run wild.

Toi is run in collaboration with World of WearableArt (WOW) and is an opportunity for the next generation of textile artists and designers to get a taste for the WOW experience. Toi is Māori for art, and the Toi programme challenges students to take art off the wall and put it on the human form.

Fellow Bohally students Hudson Johnson and Nick Eshia also took part along with students from Marlborough Girls’ College. For Caitlyn, the opportunity to attend and showcase her design brief came from the technology curriculum.

“The rules are that it has to be made from scratch (by the students only) from top to bottom (shoes are an exception). There were four themes for us to choose from. Stories of The South Pacific, Imaginary Friends, GASP, or Structures.”

“I chose ‘Imaginary Friend’ and I recreated

a friend from when I was five years old. She is the ultimate crazy cat lady. She has cats and scratches all over her body and a ripped skirt. I used some simple fabrics, elastic and recycled curtains. I spent about one day a week for seven weeks, working on the costume.

“My school has rotating tech days for all the hubs at Bohally. On our rotation, we were asked if we wanted to take part.”

Each ‘group’ had one costume that was featured in the show.

The students were taken for a photo shoot in their outfits then walked the catwalk in front of the judges and the live audience.

“I loved being able to hang out with the other designers and learn about their costumes and designs. The moment I walked on stage was the moment I finally felt like all my work was worth it,” she says.

Toi was launched in 2018 by the team at Rockquest Promotions (RQP), who have been active supporters of creative ākonga (students) since founding Smoke free rock quest in 1988.

NZSO Concertmaster Vesa-Matti Leppänen leads the orchestra for its Baroque Innovations concert tour which visits Blenheim next month.

NZSO to perform Baroque masterpiece

By Chris Valli

The New Zealand Symphony orchestra returns to Blenheim next month to perform selections from a landmark work by legendary Baroque violin virtuoso Heinrich Biber.

The Bohemian composer’s Harmonia artificioso-ariosa, written in 1696, is one of the greatest compositions of the Baroque era. The masterpiece includes what was at the time unusual tunings which resulted in extraordinarily complex harmonies and polyphonic effects.

The Baroque Innovations concerts, led by NZSO Concertmaster Vesa-Matti

Leppänen, are a rare opportunity to experience Biber’s Harmonia artificioso-ariosa performed by the national orchestra.

An outstanding Baroque violinist, Biber wrote many pieces for the instrument, including sonatas for violin and another stringed instrument or keyboard. The NZSO continues to be praised for its performances of the best music by Baroque composers. Wellington’s The Post hailed the Orchestra’s performance of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons as “a triumph.”

Baroque Innovations is at the ASB Theatre Marlborough on June 29.

Toi is te reo Māori for art. The showcase in 2022 saw 285 garments created by over 600 young designers.

BUILD DESIGN DECORATE RENOVATE

This year’s hot trends

2023 is shaping up to be a year of evolution, as home building trends continue to positively impact the way we live and build. Here are the top 5 trends making a huge impact in

residential construction this year.

New builds incorporate the latest home building trends, with open spaces, ample natural light, energy-efficient design, welcoming kitchens, and seamless indoor-outdoor integration.

1. Biophilic Design: Bringing the Outside In There is a growing movement towards biophilic design: bringing the outside in. Biophilic design is an environmental architectural style that highlights the buildings natural qualities. The idea is that the design mimics the outdoor environment’s shapes, textures and colours to make the occupants feel more in tune with their environment. This 2023 home building trend seems here to stay.

Key features include:

• Natural Light: Relying more on natural light than artificial; skylights, suntubes, large windows etc

• Earthy Colours: Colours such as green, grey, brown and other earthy tones that appear most often in nature

• Greenery: Lots of plants occupy biophilic buildings. They bring life and improve the homes air quality.

2. Sustainability

One of the biggest home building trends in 2023 will continue to be sustainability. As the demand for green architecture grows, so does the desire for renewable, low-maintenance

features.

Key sustainable home features include:

• Solar Energy and Passive Design: The implementation of solar power enhances the energy and cost efficiency of your home. By investing in solar energy during your build process, you will not only save on your upfront costs but also reap the cost savings from the get-go.

• High-Performance Windows: Windows are responsible for over 50% of lost energy in our homes. By investing in new window technology, you can limit energy loss and increase individual comfort.

• Energy-Efficient Appliances: Choosing appliances with high energy efficiency ratings allows you to invest in your home and the environment.

• Renewable & Low-Maintenance Materials: Stone, brick, wood and recycled materials are becoming increasingly popular as ways to retain building longevity. They require less replacement and maintenance, minimising the need for new materials and wastage long-term.

• EV Ch arging St ations: As electric ca r sales sky-rocket, so does the need for the home-infrastructure to support it via fast charging ports. It is important to include this when building for either your current car or for future proofing.

3. Smart-home Technology 2023 will bring home-living into the future, with cool smart-home technologies available for every budget. Whether it is having all your

automated features (such as lighting, heating, audio and security) operating under a single system or using something new. Smart home technologies continue to be developed and improved to make your life easier.

4. Social Kitchens

As the saying goes, the kitchen really is the heart of the home. Kitchens are a space where family and friends gather over food, entertainment and conversation. It is important this space accommodates the flow of people and practicality with ease and efficiency. Key design elements to think about for this 2023 home building trend are adequate benchtop space, deep storage cabinets, a large benchtop island, open-plan kitchen layout and low-maintenance, easy-clean work surfaces and appliances.

5. Outdoor Living

Outdoor living is evolving in 2023, with the integration of indoor and outdoor living spaces. More homeowners are investing in their outdoor dining areas, with more kiwis looking to prioritise their ability to relax and entertain all year-round.

This includes adding enclosed verandas, opening up the home to the garden/patio through glass doors, covered outdoor kitchens and many other features.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or selecting a house and land package, your home is a place for you to enjoy, live and relax. Explore build trends, be inspired and investigate styles and colours that suits you and your lifestyle.

DESIGN

Autumn colour trends

As we enter the cooler months, now is the perfect time to update your home and embrace the colours of the season.

This autumn, we can expect to see a combination of warm neutrals that help to create the cocooning atmosphere we crave in our homes as the seasons change.

For an instant refresh, a coat of paint is the easiest, low-cost update you can make to your home.

Try something different: If you want to keep your existing wall colours but still experiment, try painting small furniture pieces, such as side tables, planters or vases, and then add in cushions and throws in similar tones.

Test it out: It’s always a good idea to test paint colours before you commit. Order colour swatches or sample pots and view them at different times of day and night, under both natural and artificial light.

Texture is key to making any space feel inviting. For a cosy and comfortable feel, mix and match soft-touch, tactile fabrics and natural materials such as linens, velvets,

corduroy and soft leathers in the same colour palette to create a cohesive look.

Highlight special features.

When planning your autumn design update, look for ways to highlight your home’s unique characteristics and embrace your natural surroundings.

Adding a deep hue can be a fast and effective way to accentuate existing architectural features.

DISaSTer reCovery is crucial to your business as computer systems need to be operational as often as possible and data loss can have a severe impact on your business.

We specialise in helping our clients develop and implement a plan that ensures you are well prepared and know exactly what needs to be done if or when a disaster strikes.

Cycle World

Once you've found your perfect bike, it's important to keep up the maintenance to ensure you get optimal performance and value from it.

The team at Cycle World should be your first call.

Brendon and Gus bring years of bike mechanical experience and can advise you on how to get the very best out of your bike.

Whether you are after a standard tuneup or a full custom overhaul or upgrade, they'll be able to advise the best approach

and have the experience to get a top quality result for you and your bike.

From maintenance and repairs through to custom tuning your suspension, you will be amazed at how much of a difference they can make to your riding experience.

For e-bike riders, maybe it's time for a software upgrade.

Brendon and Gus are here to help so come in and have a chat to the guys at Cycle World today.

The local’s choice

Superior Carpet Cleaning is Marlborough’s longest running carpet and upholstery cleaning company.

Established in 1982 this family-owned business continues to provide amazing service and results.

Current owner Dan Riddell believes in consistently delivering high quality service at a fair and reasonable price.

"We specialise in genuine, restorative carpet cleaning," Dan says.

"Our customers are always amazed at the results."

Dan can also help with your pre-winter cleaning. If your house has been open all summer you will have dust, pollen, and other allergens lurking in your carpet.

Call Dan for an Autumn clean - your house and your health will thank you for it.

Dan is also your first call for flood restoration and emergency stain removal.

Contact Superior Carpet Cleaning today.

What you can expect at MCN

When you use our service you can expect:

• That we will listen to you and understand your IT problem or needs

• Pr oactive and cost-effective strategic IT planning

• Customised solutions that suit your needs

• That we will use language you can understand

• Reliable ongoing support and after-sales care

• Sp ecialised helpdesk support just a phone call away

Celebrating 50 years of Honda Motorcycles

The words Honda and Motorcycles are iconic in the motorcycle industry. Brand leaders in both the on-road and off-road markets including Motocross and Adventure/ Trail Riding.

This year Honda celebrates 50 years of business in New Zealand and with that Honda Marlborough are excited to be holding their first ever Honda Classic & Current Motorcycle Display Showcase event at their store this Saturday 27 May from 9am to 4pm.

“We’ll have bikes on display in the showroom and in the carpark, we’ll also have food carts, some spot prizes and exclusive deals on our new Honda range and selected accessories.”

Honda Marlborough has had a few owners in the past, currently the proud owners are Steve and Mandy Metzger and the business comes under the well known local name Croads Motor & Mower Services Ltd.

Retail Manager James McKenzie-Wiley says; “Although we are licensed as a farm

bike specialist retailer we’re excited to be engaging with the motorcycle community here in Marlborough. It’s good to make the connection if we haven’t already and to remind people that we can service and repair all makes and all sizes of bikes.”

We have three fully qualified and capable motorcycle mechanics and one apprentice.

We invite the public to pop into our store this week to see some of the amazing bikes we already have on display, including an original 1984 Honda CR500R recently restored, it’s a beautiful bike, you don’t want to miss it!

We look forward to showcasing Honda this coming Saturday.

Please feel free to contact us if you would like to display your bike on Saturday, please get in touch with us either by calling into the store or search Honda Marlborough on Facebook.

First 25 to book and display their bike on Saturday will receive a prize pack.

Marlborough Matariki

Event Fund open for applications

Are you part of an organisation planning to hold an event to recognise Matariki?

Marlborough District Council is seeking applications for the Mānawatia te Kahui o Matariki Fund which celebrates and supports the regeneration and sustainability of mātauranga Māori associated with Te Kāhui o Matariki.

Councillor Jonathan Rosene, who will chair the decision-making panel awarding the funding, said the fund is a great way of elevating the importance of Māori culture and heritage within our community.

“I welcome the opportunity to chair this panel which will see Matariki stories and events come to life in Marlborough. These events will provide a platform for our community to learn more about Māori and share in the importance of Matariki,” he said.

Council’s Arts Culture and Heritage Project Lead, Nicola Neilson said the contestable fund, which is now open for applications, aims to support the community in hosting events that recognise not only Te Rā Aro ki a Matariki, the public holiday, but also the wider kaupapa and principles of Matariki.

While there is no maximum that can be applied for, it’s likely between $2000 and $3000 will be awarded to support events.

Mrs Neilson said priority will be given to events that can demonstrate documented support from iwi.

For more information go to: www.marlborough.govt.nz/recreation/events/mnawatia-te-kahui-o-matariki-fund-marlborough-matariki-community-event-fund

Applications for the 2023 funding round close at 5pm Friday, June 9.

Imagine Signs 10 years in Marlborough

By Chris Valli

There’s a testimonial on the Imagine Signs website which conveys not only a satisfied client but a reflection on the work the Blenheim signwriting company continues to provide.

‘Thank you very much for the great job you and your team did with our work car. It looked awesome. We couldn’t be happier. I could see it when I turned into the street and that was exactly what we were after.”

Isn’t that what any business wants - to be seen, recognised, acknowledged?

Imagine Signs is a Blenheim based signwriting company that covers all aspects of signage, from design to fabrication and installation. They have just celebrated 10 years as a local Marlborough business.

Started by David and Angela Forman in 2013 as a privately-owned family business.

Imagine Signs aims to offer local and national customers fast, friendly service and quality products.

From design and production through to installation, from traditional brush signwriting to sign fabrication, they are able to handle all aspects of sign writing, be they large-scale

projects or small one-off items.

Boss David Forman has been in the sign writing industry for over 30 years and is a trade qualified signwriter in what he refers to as ‘old school - with the brushes’ He got into signwriting straight out of college.

The Timandra Place business has five full time staff with one being a qualified graphic designer.

As for Imagine Signs point of difference David believes having a qualified sign writer to help customers make the most of their signage is what sets them apart.

“We try to encourage people to make the best use of signs to help their customers as we believe in the old saying, “A business with bad signs, is a sign of bad business”. This may not be true for all businesses, but the image you portray definitely affects people’s choices,” he says.

David says the best part of his job is ultimately helping their customers’ business look fantastic.

“We have and continue to offer a 100% guarantee on all of our work, and we aren’t afraid to offer advice of better ways to achieve the same result for less cost,” David says.

The staff at Blenheim's Imagine Signs hold the Mitre 10 cup (now Bunnings Cup) won by the Tasman Mako in 2020.

Library

We now find it easier to get our library books from the Picton Library where there is parking available and the books are on the ground floor.

New Library

Well done on the new library. It looks fantastic and will be well utilised by the community.

Weed

Now I know where the pervasive Taylor river choking oxygen weed comes from. The creek at Pollard Park!

Firearms

NZ Police Assn Chris Cahill gets all dramatic and theatrical again over firearms registration this time! While I don’t disagree with registration, he is wrong to say that it will stop police officers getting shot or gang members shooting houses up over drug deals. All it will do is let police know who legally owns the firearm being used IF it is recovered. Licensed legal firearms users aren’t the ones commiting these crimes.

Those who are, are using stolen weapons and couldn’t give a toss about the laws surrounding them. Cahill is hell bent on getting our police force fully armed and will dramatise any firearms event to try and make this happen. He shouldn’t be misinforming the general public in doing so! The public need to know that the day our police force become fully armed will be the day that criminal firearms use will escalate. Look at the USA. Do we ever want to end up like that ?

Culvert disaster

I notice the recently repaired Culvert near the dump has washed out again. Has the Council considered firing the design engineer of this project after around 8 washouts in the past two years? The contractor will suffer. Why not contact the old fellas at Bradshaw Park who designed and built their rail bridge 100 metres downstream to do the job for you. Love to know how much has been spent on this culvert in the past 5 years.

Gore council

Watching the news last Wednesday, the lady who said get rid of those old farts on the Gore council.

Did not expect that comment lol.

Talk of the week

Kings Birthday

Seeing as our beloved queen has gone to that great palace in the sky, will Queen’s birthday holiday now be King’s birthday and will the date be changed???? Just a thought!!!!!

Overpriced

Have you ever noticed the seemingly excessive cost of a commercial building compared to a domestic one?

Our new library, as nice as it is, has cost a whopping $15m, but I’m sure I could build 3 luxury private dwellings, of a similar size, for $5m each. I mean toilet blocks cost far more than a whole large home. Strange!

Roundabouts

I’ve seen plenty of drivers flick their left indicator on as they approach the roundabout and then sail straight on through, clearly misinterpreting the ‘signal your exit’ rule. But recently I saw something that makes no sense whatsoever; someone flicked their right indicator on as they were approaching the roundabout and then sailed straight on through!

I can understand people not quite getting it and using their left indicator, but using the right indicator follows no logic at all. I’m surprised there hasn’t been an accident.

Passport cover

My latest passport was issued in 2016 when National was in power. On the cover is printed: “New Zealand Passport Uruwhenua Aotearoa”. Official recognition of both names occurred under National and Labour. Isn’t it time for these toxic anti-Aotearoa texters to stop conducting an orchestrated litany of BS? It’s wrong and boring. My vote for James Arbuckle for mayor.

Why indeed?

Txt talker last week, yes I’m asking myself the same thing. Why? Referring to all this sudden name changing of organisations, schools and the like. I note a lot of readers asking the same.

Molesworth

Watched a documentary on Molesworth 1946 land of the long white cloud Aotearoa.

She?

Why should a prime minister stumble over such a simple question, definition of a woman? Really don’t want someone like this running our country. If just anyone can be a ‘she’ or a ‘woman’ then that means just anyone can go into our daughters’ changing rooms and toilets. You can’t say ‘SHE can’t go in the woman’s toilets’. A WOMAN IS AN ADULT HUMAN FEMALE.

Disappointed

Went to visit the new library. I’m very reliant on mobility scooter so going upstairs is a no go. Very disappointing. Why do the cafes insist on putting expensive food for sale. Should have pies, sandwiches etc that most of the public will buy and be able to afford. IT’S A PUBLIC LIBRARY NOT A FOOD COMPETITION.

As for the whale jaw bones. Nobody owns them. Let them rest in peace. Tribe against tribe. Bloody pathetic!!!

Free Hour morphs into $40

I keyed in registration, pressed OK as done before, set my phone and went shopping. It buzzed 55 mins later.

What’s that flapping, a ticket?!! I found the link a chance to explain! I had entered it...a faulty machine perhaps or I miss keyed.

“They” said a search of their records could not find me, so NO Cancellation of fine. An expensive free hour, thanks Council.

Arbiters of safety?

I was outside ASB bank yesterday when it had been raining. Since I overlooked the fact that the terrain there calls for safety approved, anti-slip, self correcting 4 wheel drive shoes, I slipped over, on the incredibly slippery pavers. It did jog my memory to the fact that four or so years ago an elderly lady we knew had slipped over in the town centre and was severely injured under similar circumstances. And I have heard many similar stories since. Four years ago a comprehensive complaint was laid regarding safety. I doubt we were the only ones. To date nothing has been done. The same council that tells me, the ratepayer, that I can’t burn a few branches in my back yard or have a sleepout out the back. I can’t install a new toilet without paying them 5 times the price of that toilet for the bit of paper that says I’m allowed to install it. For ‘safety’. Does anyone see the hypocrisy here?

Priscilla Queen of the Desert at the ASB theatre. Fantastic musical, stunning costumes, great music, (didn’t get to see the musicians though). Fabulous singing and dancing, funny but very meaningful at times. Need an open mind. A must see. Blenheim can be proud of the talent within it’s community.

When are the warning signs going to be erected warning drivers of the newly installed judder bar on SH 6 northbound lane approximately 300 meters from Jack’s Road?

Must see SH6 Opinion only

There’s a big difference between an opinion and a hateful comment. Everyone is entitled to their opinion so we support the Sun’s text page. It’s interesting and enlightening to read the comments of other locals.

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.

Oh dear

We now have an old library, art gallery, workingmen’s club and numerous empty shops around town. Not a good look for a tourist place is it? Time council starting brighting up the place with at least some colour.

minutes with...

Simon PoPham

Upper South Island Business Manager Briscoes / Rebel Sport

 Are you a dog or cat person?

Dog.

 My friends would say I am...

Loyal and dedicated in all that I do.

 The best advice I ever received was?

Whether you think you can, or think you can’t, you’re right!

 What would you buy if money was no object? A campervan so I could freedom camp all over the country.

 Local coffee haunt?

Definitely not for coffee (yuck!), but for a hot chocolateHakuna Matata.

 Favourite takeaway? Souvalaki.

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

 What’s the most thoughtful gift you’ve ever received?

Anything my girls have created from scratch for me!

 Where is your happy holiday place? Kaiteriteri.

 Favourite programme or series currently watching?

Don’t have time to watch a lot of TV, but guilty pleasure

Nature’s healing touch for staff

By Chris Valli

Becky Goodall is making a positive difference.

Becky is Garden Team Leader at the Selmes Garden Trust. A charitable trust set up in 2008 to provide employment opportunities for people with disabilities within the Marlborough region.

The nursery is a holistic place of learning where volunteers and paid staff aren’t afraid of getting their finger nails dirty and indulge in all things greenery. The Trust and the people associated with it are fulfilling a role vacated by the IHC. Christchurch born Becky has been at Selmes coming up seven years and moved to Marlborough to be closer to family after living in Perth for nine years.

Initially, Becky was a volunteer at the nursery and after one year they offered her one morning a week, which led to two and subsequently a full time role.

The qualified florist says her love of gardening has grown over time and considers herself a ‘jack of all trades’.

“It’s all about making sure the nursery is stocked with plenty of plants for people to buy and making sure there are jobs for the staff,” she says. “Being out in the weather like this, you can’t beat it.”

Becky says for the staff with disabilities there is a sense of ‘being part of something’ and having a commitment to turn up on their day and having the responsibility.

“It’s a big deal for them. Some only come three hours a week, while some come 12 hours a week. That’s one of the things I really enjoy the most, working alongside the volunteers in the shed. There is a delight on their faces which says, I can actually do this,” she says.

“The reaction when they get or learn something and the joy on their face is priceless.”

Becky said a current disability

volunteer had his grandparents out at the nursery recently and he was beaming with pride when they turned up to see the work he was doing.

“His grandparents said his confidence had just been transformed,” Becky says. “Seeing the staff grow is the thing I love the most.”

For Becky, gardening is her ‘happy place’ after having the guidance and influence of her own grandmothers growing up.

Indeed, spending time outside in green spaces encourages the brain to release serotonin, a chemical responsible for regulating one’s moods.

“That generation was resourceful; it’s how you produced your food. That’s how you survived and now everyone is moving back to that because, well, we have to.”

“When I’m stressed I just go into my garden and it chills me out, it’s just lovely. I can hardly walk today,” she quips.

Becky says gardening is her happy place.

HAKA TIME: MBC take on Shirley Boys’ High School last week. The home team won 32-14.

MBC First XV lock Luke Martella secures possession.

LEFT: KRUSHER KRONFELD: Local firefighters Ryan Anderson, former All Black loose forward Josh Kronfeld and Steve Smith.

BELOW: The Rarangi team at the sky tower firefighter challenge.

Sarah Wheldale - Marlborough Multicultural Centre, Thi Phan - Senior Advisor E Tū Whānau and Patricia Miranda -Taylor - Marlborough Multicultural Centre.

Judy Young, Yi Luan Gao and Li Li performing a dance of Mongolian, Thai and Chinese styles. The ladies were part of The Marlborough Youth Trust and Youth Week.

First-timer Steph Neal surprised by her grandmother who arrived from Nelson to support her.

Something to smile about…

By Glenise Dreaver

Pete Leach, manager of the Papatuanuku Independency Trust in Boons Road, Picton, got a bit of a surprise when they had the septic tank cleared out recently. You’ve heard of such operations leading to the finding of all sorts of long-lost treasures –a diamond ring, or a credit card, or a missing wallet. You can live in hope that there’s

GARDENER

FULLTIME ROLE (MONDAY – FRIDAY)

If you enjoy the outdoors, are energetic and physically fit - this could be the job for you!

Your roles would include:

• maintaining the high standard of our extensive gardens and lawns

• some maintenance and cleaning of building exteriors

• general home maintenance skills would be an advantage

Please call at reception or email ross@ashwoodpark.co.nz for an application form.

Applications close 02/06/2023

Clothing Alterations:

For your sewing requirements

Ryan Lawnmowing Blenheim Renwick

Picton

something of value that can be cleaned up. What surfaced at the trust was perhaps less exciting, but it certainly led to a smile or two.

Pete’s asking: “Has someone out there lost their smile, along with their lower denture? Because if so, we might have found it.

“We’ve cleaned it up and it’s almost ready to wear again. We’re in the phone book –just give us a call and you can have it back.”

We

. Interior/exterior detail clean

. Machine cut and polish

. Ceramic coating

. Sale ready/end of lease valet

. Shower glass polishing and ceramic coating

pearce@mobilecarvalet.co.nz or phone Nadine 021 234 5474

MARLBOROUGH & RENWICK RSA

WISH TO THANK ALL THOSE WHO HELPED AND VOLUNTEERED AT OUR VERY SUCCESSFUL POPPY DAY. WE RAISED

$19,704.85

ALL THE FUNDS RAISED ARE FOR THE BENEFIT OF OUR MRSA VETERANS, WIVES, WIDOWS AND DEPENDENTS.

WE ALSO WISH TO SHOW OUR APPRECIATION TO ALL THOSE INVOLVED IN MAKING ANZAC DAY 2023 SUCCESSFUL THANK YOU.

Phone 03 578 1010 or 027 578 1010

Quality Service Guaranteed

Rarangi District Residents’ Association AGM:

The Annual General Meeting of the Rarangi District Residents’ Association will be held in the Rarangi Community Hall at 7.30pm Wednesday 31st May 2023.

A guest speaker from the Department of Conservation will give a talk on conservation issues in and around Rarangi. At the meeting there will be a normal election of committee members. All Rarangi residents are warmly invited to attend. Drinks and nibbles provided. For more details contact James Travers (President) on 570 2260.

Phone/Txt 022 322 6515

GOLD BUYERS

MARLBOROUGH PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

An established support group meeting in Blenheim for men and their families living with a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. Spouses, partners and family members welcome.

Meetings: Time:

Venue:

MARLBOROUGH PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

First Tuesday of each month* 7.15pm

October Meeting:

An established support group meeting in Blenheim for men and their families living with a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. Spouses, partners and family members welcome. 0800 477 678

Cancer Society Blenheim House 76A Maxwell Road, Blenheim

Date: Tuesday 30th May 2023, at 7.15pm

January

Venue: Cancer Society Blenheim House, 76A Maxwell Road, Blenheim

For more information please contact:

0800 477 678

For more information please contact:

Support Group Coordinator Murray Eyles

M: 027 608 5667

Support Group Coordinator Murray Eyles

M: 027 608 5667

E: marlborough@prostate.org.nz

E: marlborough@prostate.org.nz

W: www.prostate.org.nz/support-meetings

W: www.prostate.org.nz/support-meetings

Public Notice of Decisions on Submissions on Aquaculture Variations

On 19 May 2023, the Marlborough District Council gives public notice that it has made its decisions on the provisions of Variation 1: Marine Farming and Variation 1A: Finfish Farming and the matters raised in submissions. As of this date, the Proposed Marlborough Environment Plan is amended in accordance with these decisions. The decisions are available to download from the Marlborough District Council’s website www.marlborough.govt.nz.

Copies of the decisions can also be viewed at:

• Marlborough District Council offices – Blenheim and Picton

• Libraries – Blenheim and Piction

If you have further questions, please address these to variations@marlborough.govt.nz or phone: Karen Bloor 03 520 7400

Notice of the decision has been served on all persons who made submission and/or further submission.

Any person who made a submission and/or further submission may appeal the Council’s decision to the Environment Court. Further details of the appeal process are avilable on the Council website. Amy appeal to the Environment Court must be in the prescribed form (with filling fee) and lodged with the Environment Court (PO Box 2069, Christchurch 8013) within 30 working days of service of the notice of decision. The closing date for appeals is Monday, 3 July 2023.

Dated at Blenheim at 8:00 am on the 19 May 2023.

MARK WHEELER

CHIEF EXECUTIVE

come to you!

Papatuanuku Independency Trust manager Pete Leach, with one of the treasures that came bubbling up when the trust had its septic tank cleaned out recently.

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 578 0797.

After Hours Chemists: Springlands

Pharmacy: Monday - Friday 8.30am6pm. Saturday 9m - 5pm. Sunday 10am4pm. Public Holidays 10am - 4pm. Closed Christmas Day. ph 578 2271

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.

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

Deliverers Wanted!

Need some extra cash??

Why not get fit earning it!

Interested?

We require honest, reliable people, aged 11 or over.

For further details contact:

03 5777 868 office@blenheimsun.co.nz

Death notices

aNDERSON: Dulcie Pearl (Donnese): On 18 May 2023 surrounded by family at Springlands Lifestyle Village. Messages to www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz At Donnese’s request a private cremation has been held.

MILNER: Ryan Joseph: Surrounded by the love of his family, Ryan passed away in the comfort of his own bed on 14th May 2023 aged 30 years. Loving son of Dorothy Schwass and Grant Milner. Loving brother of Libby, Ethan and Sophia. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A private service has been held to honour his life.

Labour needed for Olive Harvest in June. Please contact Chris 0274-985-404

Looking for a builder to join our small team. We range from all renovation to light commercial work and the odd house build. We are looking for a qualified builder or someone with previous experience in building and construction trade. The right person would need to be reliable and able to work alone, work vehicle would be supplied. Pay rate negotiable. Your CV can be sent to chrishenderson747@gmail.com along with any questions you have. If you need further information please call Chris 027 816 0706.

cLINTON; Joyce Elizabeth: On 20th May, 2023, peacefully at Hospice Marlborough, in her 99th year. Dearly loved wife of the late Fred. Loved mother and mother-in-law of Gary and Kathryn, Rex and Liz, Judy and Wayne Thomas, Sandy and Paul Dobson . Messages to 5 Puketea Place or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Memorial Service to be celebrated at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street, on Monday 5 June, 2023 at 1.30 pm. To view the full notice please visit our website.

MURDOcH, Alma Dawn: On Friday May 12, 2023. Aged 92 years. Dearly loved wife of Mervyn (deceased), very much loved and respected Mum and Mama of Gaeline and Warren Cairns, Shena and Ken Lawrence (Brisbane), Renée and Bevan, Jade (Brisbane), Ricky and Sam (Brisbane), Jayden, Connor, Amity, Charlotte, Quinn, Ella, Bessie, Lucy and Pippa. Now at rest with Dad. Messages may be sent to 32 Lee Street, Blenheim 7201. A family service has been held.

Canvastown Primary School

Caring Active Achievers

Teacher Aide Position

• Fixed Term, Part Time - 14 hours per week, term time only.

cRaFaR: Terrence Robin (Terry): On 16 May 2023, peacefully at Wairau Hospital. Father of Sarah and Grandfather of Kayden and Charlie. Son of the late Jenny and Les. Brother and brother-in-law of Val (deceased), and Murray, Norm and Shona, Julie and Ray Anderson, and Mac and the late Pixie. A loved uncle of his nieces and nephews. Special friend of Mary. Messages to c/- www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz At Terry’s request, a cremation has taken place with a private gathering to be held.

LaRSEN: Patricia (Pat): On 15 May 2023, peacefully at the Marlborough Hospice, aged 86 years. At Pat’s request a private cremation has been held. For the full notice please visit our website www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz.

THOMSON: Andrew James (Clayton): TST Contracting is no more. Sunrise 14/06/1963: Sunset 17/05/2023. Adored sweetheart and soulmate of Marianne. Much loved role model and father figure of Timo and Léon. Son of Jim Thomson and the late Lorraine Thomson (Cole). Messages to Marianne, 12 Gravesend Place, Picton 7220 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A funeral service for Clayton has been held, followed by private cremation. To view the full notice please visit our website.

• We are looking for a teacher aide to join our junior room who is focused on creating a diverse and inclusive environment and who will play an important role in supporting our ākonga’s learning journey.

Please send your application letter and CV to - principal@canvastown.school.nz

Applications close Wednesday 7th June 2023

The Firewood Company, dry firewood. Ph 027 930 5447. Special dry pine 7.2 cub $500.

Ford Laser 2003 5 speed 2 litre. Four new tyres and shocks, 129km, NZ new, $5,200 ono. Ph Bob 0212 025 649.

mo ns Ter M ARKET SALE, Saturday 27th May, Renwick Anglican Church Hall, 54 High St, 9-noon, cash only. Clothes, household items, books, puzzles, plants, artworks & more. MONSTER MARKET SALE, Saturday 27th May, Renwick Anglican Church Hall, 54 High St, 9-noon, cash only. Clothes, household items, books, puzzles, plants, artworks & more.

Pinecones wanted, must be dry ph 5784942

sTam P collections, coin collections, old toys, post cards etc Cash paid. Local Ph 021 138 8949

MacDONaLD, Jocelyn (nee Bugler). Lovely daughter of the late Doris and Graham Bugler. Lovely sister and sister-in-law of Peter and Kahu, Gary and Kathleen, Murray and Barbara, the late Warwick and Jill,

esTaTe BUSTERS: Furniture including lounge suite, glory box and filing cabinet, cushion box, exercycle and more. Work-

SaUL, Colin George: Passed away May 24, 1997, and SAUL, Ruby Hazel: Passed away June 3, 1989. Precious memories we hold so near for Parents/Grandparents we loved so dear. Forever remembered by Lynnette,

Autumn Muster Rogaine

By Chris Valli

Enthusiasts of all things with a map and compass have an autumn muster rogaine this weekend.

Organised through the Marlborough Orienteering Club, the rogaine is a cross counry navigation sport similar to orienteering in which runners find their way across Marlborough’s picturesque open country

The event is open to anyone, orienteering club members or non-members and is suitable for families, novices and the more experienced adventurers out there.

The event’s location will take place within a 15 minute drive of Blenheim on farm land. Detailed travel directions and other information will be in the final instructions which will be emailed to the team contact tomorrow and will also be available on the website. Registration, course planning, briefing, start, finish, post event food will all take place at the event venue.

Catering is provided and includes a burger (vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options) and a drink. The cost is included in the entry fee.

The terrain is a variety of rolling land with some moderate and steep hills with a mix of mostly clean open grassland, tussock land, scrub – typical Marlborough farm land.

Categories:

3 Hour only with Juniors (U18 as of 1 January 2023), Senior and Families (must be all residing at the same address)

The timetable is:

9.30am Registration and Maps available for planning

10.45am Briefing

11.00am Start

2.00pm Finish (Refreshments and results as soon as possible)

No dogs are allowed at the event not even in vehicles. All farm buildings (excluding the woolshed) and farm houses are out of bounds... while there will be portaloo toilets.

Robinsons recognised for Sport Hub

By Chris Valli

Blenheim’s Robinson Construction Limited has come out gold at the 2023 New Zealand Commercial Projects Awards.

The Marlborough District Council owned Lansdowne Sports Hub was recognised in the Civic National Category. The pavilion caters for a range of sports including rugby, netball, touch, softball, and beach volleyball.

The hub features environmental features like energy saving, water reducing features, a CO2 meter and a wellness area that provides additional space and automation. Comments from the judges said the

Golf Results

Wairau Valley Golf Club

Saturday 20th May: Par Round: Brian Roughan +4, Robin Lacey -1, Glen Griffiths -1, Richard Bruce -1, Mel Hampton -2, Mike Collins -2, John

multi-sports pavilion had the community in mind with the design encompassing dressing rooms constructed of concrete blocks and exposed ground floor ceilings, with the modern eye-catching materials making it functional for the 21st century. Further comments said ‘the upper roof was shaped to mimic the peaks and valleys of the local landscapes’ while ‘walkways featured large glass components providing expansive views over the neighbouring fields.’

A social media post from the Robinsons team wanted to thank those who were a part of ‘this wonderful build and community facility to be enjoyed by Marlburians for generations to come’.

Marlborough Golf Club

16 May, 9 Hole American Foursomes net: Leana Gargiulo & Bev Lindsay 39, Leonie Savage & Claire Houliston 42, June Maslin & Lyn Knappstein 44. 17 May, Jessie Murray

Eclectic net: Div.1: Karen Morris 78. Div.2: Denise Pickering 80, Lesley Blanchard 80, Jo Grigg 81. Div.3: Ann Duncan 78, Debra Nicholls 81. 18 May, men’s stableford Div.1:Malcolm

Picton Golf Club

Saturday 13 May Varnham Cup S/F- Brian

Carver, Jeff Pascoe 36, Aaron Wilson 34, David Thomas 34, Damien Pollard 33, Hiram Taylor 33, Maria McConway 33, Ian Aldridge 31, Tim McCaffrey 31.

Tuesday 16 May National Teams Nett-Anita McCaffrey 72; Maria McConway 75; Vicki

Rarangi Golf Club

Wednesday 17 May - Mens Midweek Net Medal

Phil Hill 68, Allan Shutkowski 69, Rob Lopez 70, David Holdaway 70, Len Barlow 70. Terry Grant 71, Dennis Wye 71. Graham Ilott 72, Bruce Curgenven 73, Clarry Neame 73, Terry Allen 74, Stuart McLagan 74, Philip Shouler 74, Allan Hogg 74.

Thursday 18 May - Ladies Midweek Net Medal

Sue Lang 70, Vicki Eastgate 70, Rete Kydd 73, Mariann Grant 75, Carla Hepplethwaite 75, Annie Hubert 76, Marilyn Smith 76, Tracy Bary 77, Anne

Blenheim Golf Club

May 8, 9 hole stableford David Dyer 19 Mike

McConnell 18 David Waters 16 Ross Agnew 16

Don Lamond 16Ian Hatcher 15 Stuart Parker 15

Barry Mosley 15 Dan Crawford 15 Bob Tapp

14 Dave Menzies 14 Glen Hurcomb 14 Arnold

Newman 14 Leo McKendry 14 Brian Brown 14

Ladies Elaine Brown 17 Jan Pegler 14 Shirley

Godsiff 14 Bernice Arnold 12 Christine Burns

13 May 11th, Par Buck Asplet 1 Nigel Smith -2

Phil Starkey -2 Morgan Bowe -2 9 Holes stableford Bob Tapp 17 Ian Clark 17 Glen Hurcomb

16 May 13th, Monthly Mug Gross Medal Buck

Asplet 76 Net Medal Norbert Thaler 67 Graeme

Parker 70 Roy Lilley 72 Dan Crawford 74 Tere

Poa 74 Desz Campobell 75 Brain Yarrall 75 Ross

Agnew 75 Nigel Smith 75 Andre Tewhiu 76 Alex

Herd 76 MDC Challenger Cup Mixed Net Medal

McLauchlan -3, Bevan Boon -3, Robyn Pupich -4, Rex McGarry -4

McKenzie 35, Paul Roughan 34, Jon Nicol 34, Tom Kelsall 32. Div.2:Rex Scoble 40, Werner Pluss 38, Richard Anderson 37, John Wadsworth 37, George Mitchinson 35. 20 May, Irish Stableford Div.1:Mike MacLeod 33. Div.2: David Lightfoot 29, Bob Nicolle 29, Jon Nicol 29. Div.3:Gerry Rooney 34, Dylan Rigby 33, Dave Knappstein 30.

Eastgate 76; Liz Taylor 77; Sharyn Eden 78, Judy Jones 78; Julie Rosie 79; Jo Prescott 81.

Thursday 18 May S/F-Bill Catrell 42, Ian Aldridge 38, Gary Aldridge 35, Ant Booker 35, Iain Berrie 35; Tim McCaffrey 34, Hiram Taylor 34, Jerome January 34, Ian Molloy 34.

Newman 77, Margaret Tapp 77,Di Betts 77.

Sunday 21 May - Stableford & Net Medal

Ladies - Margaret Tapp 37, Jo Rainbird 36, Anne Newman 34, Frances Price 33, Sue Campbell 31, Janet Laing 30, Bridget Quaife 29.

Mens - Neil Butts 68, David Price 69, Ian Molloy 70, Maxwell Short 70, Bruce Verry 72, Greg Thomas 72, Owen Gibbs 73, John Cootes 74, Brian Gill 74, Jason Kennedy 74, Mike Van Dijk 74, Jake Nurse 74.

Sa-Nga Grupp + Alf van der Hulst 152 Rachel Bell + Mike Guillemot 159 NTP Fairweathers

9/18 Luke Yarrall Sowmans 3/12 Buck Asplet

May 15th, 9 hole stableford David Dyer 18 Roy

Lilley 17 Bob Tapp 17 Dave Menzies 16 John

Cootes 16 John Burn 16 Arnold Newman 16

Brian Brown 16 Mike McConnell 16 Ian Clark

16 Ross Agnew 15 Ladies Dawn Walker 17 Jan

Blake 17 Shirley Godsiff 16 May 17th, Ladies

Medal 9 holes Yvonne Hore 33 Shirley Godsiff

38 18 holes Medal 0-29 Sue Duckworth 78

Vickie Lane 80 a-Nga Grupp 80 May 18th, Sta-

bleford 9 holes Bob Tapp 18 Pani Swann 17 Ian

Clark 16 18 Holes Ian Hatcher 40 Phil Starkey

39 Nigel Smith 38 Don Lamond 36 Stuart Parker

36 David Waters 35 Stuart McLagan 34

Competitors in the 2022 autumn muster rogaine. This years event will take place within a 15 minute drive of Blenheim on farm land.

The Robinson Construction Group having a Health and Safety meeting at the Lansdowne Sports Hub recently.