19 July Blenheim Sun Newspaper

Nothing more innocent than the joy of kids

Continued from page 1.

Young and not so young were entertained for 40 minutes including local Dads/volunteers who dressed up as Ron the Royal Guard and as Granny in the book ‘Grannie’s Undies’.

It had been a productive South Island schedule for the Dunedin born, Australian based author flying into Dunedin with shows in Invercargill, Dunedin, Oamaru, Timaru, Waimate, Hokitika, G r eymouth, Westport, Nelson, Blenheim and Kaikoura. The tour also included five sold out shows at the Christchurch library.

Dean created Mr Yipadee after being made redundant as a radio presenter in Britain, and needing work. He started singing character songs in 2012 with albums going to the top of the British iTunes kids charts after a few years of hardship.

“I decided to be Dean the Wiggle in a pink skivvy - that was always the joke until I decided I would try to make it,” he says.

Dean toured New Zealand with The Wonky Donkey author Craig Smith, a 2009 children’s book based upon a song Smith wrote in 2005 after hearing the joke, ‘What do you call a donkey with three legs? Craig suggested Dean’s songs would make great children’s books so he sent one of his songs to Scholastic New Zealand/Australia.

The decision resulted in the biggest selling Christmas book in

2016 with ‘Jingle Bells, Rudolph Smells’ reaching number one in the New Zealand Best Sellers Charts and sold out of three print runs in Australia three weeks before Christmas.

His resilience has proved fruitful with messages from parents all over the world telling him how much they love Mr Yipadee including a handwritten card from inspirational best-selling author Dr John Gray, Men are from Mars - Women are from Venus.

His letter says, ‘We have been playing it (Mr Yipadee) for our four-year-old grandson and he loves it,’ Dean says, “I didn’t sleep for two days from the excitement.’’ Year 5 Witherlea School student Quinn says it was the first time she had heard about Deano and his books but liked the song, Grannie’s Underpants.

“It was awesome, the show was interactive and the kids got to sing and do gestures to the songs,” she says.

Tracey McKean, Children and Teen Services Librarian, says they were hoping to have Dean visit ‘for ages’ but a certain pandemic reared its Covid head three years ago, delaying the visit. Dean contacted her saying he was doing a tour in the July holidays and the timing was perfect with the opening of the new library.

“It was really important to us that Dean’s visit was available to

everyone,” says Tracey. The job Dean says is ‘pure joy’ with kids and adults connecting in ways which bring the ‘utmost pleasure’ after ‘all this time’.

“Unless you’re being picked on, it’s a great show,” he says. “Even if I won 30 million in the lottery tonight, I’d still be doing this, there

is nothing more innocent than the joy of kids.”

Dean has performed on some of the world’s biggest stages. In addition to headlining the Kidz Field at Glastonbury, he’s worked with script writers whose credits include Bob the Builder and Thomas and Friends.

TRANSFIXED: School holiday youngsters listen to Mr Yipadee performing a song.

Ewa to depict the genius of Liza

By Chris Valli

Blenheim’s Ewa Zielinska used to be good at marketing and selling wine.

Pronounced Eva, she’s also pretty handy as an actress, theatre director, project/festival leader and a theatre educator.

So performing in Stars in Your Eyes next month is just the incentive for the Polish born Ewa to showcase transferrable skills and with some justification.

“It’s a brilliant idea to work together as a community to engage people of all ages and cultures into an arts community project and raise money for a great cause,” she says.

Ewa will be showcasing the talent that is one Liza Minnelli singing Cabaret.

Daughter of actress and singer Judy Garland, Minnelli was born in Los Angeles, spent part of her childhood in Scarsdale, New York, and moved to New York City in

1962 where she began her career as a musical theatre actress and nightclub performer – remember those Blenheim?

An acclaimed performance in the drama film The Sterile Cuckoo (1969) marked a breakthrough for Minnelli and brought her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress. She later received the award for her performance as Sally Bowles in the musical film Cabaret (1972) which brought her to international prominence.

“It’s been one of my favourite movies since I can remember,” says Ewa. “Bob Fosse and Jay Preston Allen created an historical masterpiece discussing political tensions, social aspects, human rights and what it meant to live in the downfall of totalitarianism in pre Second World War Europe.”

Ewa says Cabaret is a timeless, universal and total genius of great dialogue, timing and amazing dancing and music. Liza Minnelli

was only 26 when she played Sally Bowles.

“She was amazing, so vibrant, energetic and so right for the role. Her impeccable style of perfect timing, her physicality and her great voice indisputably greatly contributed to this classic of a movie. When I work on a piece of a theatre and work with actors I very often talk about Cabaret as an example. I love Liza as a performer and I identify with her qualities.”

Ewa says to find the ‘Liza and the Cabaret feel’, it’s about recognising her great performance attributes and physicality.

“Her voice was very good. I think as a performer you need to find the balance between all of these qualities,” she says.

The chosen charity she will be representing is the Marlborough Youth Trust as Ewa works with many of Blenheim’s Youth and believes in-

vesting in not only Marlborough’s youth but the youth of New Zealand is a ‘very important job’.

“I’m really looking forward to meeting all the performers and working with them on achieving the common goal which is a great show - entertaining, full of joy and laughter.”

“I hope the audience will enjoy the vibes, the performance and the fact that they are helping to raise money for Creative Kids and the Fulton Foundation.”

Sun The Council invests in playgrounds and Athletic Park car parking

Council’s Assets and Services

Committee has approved $540,000 for local projects through its Land Subdivision Account, funded by levies charged to developers for reserves and community facilities.

The funding will see sun shade sails installed at the Mark Smith Reserve in Blenheim, new play equipment at Awarua Park in Spring Creek and the construction of a 56 space car park at Athletic Park in Blenheim.

Council’s Parks and Open Space Manager Jane Tito said this investment reflects the importance of recreational areas to our community and it will help to improve facilities to ensure they meet growing demand.

A $300,000 investment in car parking at Athletic Park comes on the heels of the increase in the number of people using that park.

Kiwis moving to Oz

Nearly 14,000 people moved to Australia last year, according to estimates released by Stats NZ last week. This compares with a net migration loss of 5,400 in 2021. The estimates use data from Stats NZ and the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS, whose data is currently available up to December 2022).

The net migration loss to Australia in 2022 is the largest for a calendar year since 2013, but well below the largest net loss of 43,700 in the March 2012 year.

Traditionally, there has been a net migration loss from New Zealand to Australia. This averaged about 30,000 a year during 2004–2013, and 3,000 a year during 2014–2019.

Each of these famous performers will be portrayed in the Stars in Your Eyes competition.

Ewa Zielinska.

Canada bound

By Chris Valli

A small group of friends, family and fellow firefighters were on hand at the airport on Saturday to farewell two of their own leaving for a stint on the frontlines of the fires in Canada. Blenheim’s Angela Pahl and Rarangi’s Alister Neal were bound for Edmonton though their destination after this was unknown at the time of departure. The two are part of a five-person team made up of others from Canterbury and South Canterbury. About 900 wildfires are currently burning across Canada, some 560 of which remain out of control. According to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre, wildfires have burned more than 9.8m hectares (24.2m acres) of land.

British Colombia has been one of the worst-affected areas, with 365 active fires currently burning across the province, and last Thursday put out a call for help from an additional 1,000 international fighters.

Neither Alister nor Angela was under any illusions as to the enormity of the task they were facing.

“It’ll be bloody hard work but I can’t wait to get there,” says Alister. “This is an experience of a lifetime. The skills obtained will be of great benefit to our community.”

Angela expressed similar sentiments. “It’s a great opportunity and I’m proud to be representing the country and our local community.”

They were to meet other crews in Auckland and were scheduled to depart on Sunday night and are expected to be in Canada for five weeks.

Sarah Budd, spokesperson for the British Columbia Wildfire Service, has said conditions are expected to remain hot and dry for the foreseeable future.

“We’re not expecting any reprieve from the weather,” she says.

The wildfires have also sparked pollution alerts across North America as smoke is blown south along the continent’s eastern coast.

Blenheim Air Cadets win Top-of-the-South trophy

By Chris Valli

Blenheim’s cadets are top of the class when it comes to teamwork and problem solving.

At the annual cadet inter-unit skills competition held in Brightwater recently, a team from 27 (Blenheim) Squadron won the Champions Field trophy for the first time since 2012.

Spokesperson Peter Clark says the squadron were expertly led by Cadet Flight Sergeant William Corban with the six person team

competing strongly for two days across a wide variety of challenging activities including navigation, first aid, teamwork, drill, problem-solving, obstacle course, leadership, equipment carry, knots and archery.

RIGHT: The winning team with the overall trophy and many of the subject trophies; L-R Cdt Raine Seymour, Cdt Nathan Drury, Cdt Flt Sgt William Corban, Cdt Adam Clark, Cdt Sgt Abraham Corban and Cdt Ollie Heaney.

Rarangi's Alister Neal and Blenheim’s Angela Pahl at Blenheim Airport on Saturday bound for Canada to fight the wildfires.

Nursing win for the south

By Chris Valli

Aspiring Marlborough nurses beginning their Bachelor of Nursing at Ara Te Pūkenga in a new August intake could complete their clinical placements anywhere in the country - with accommodation and travel costs covered.

But you have to get in quick with applications for the new intake closing this Friday, July 21 with study commencing on August 7.

The Minster of Health Ayesha Verrall announced the new cohort last week, confirming the intake will begin in August this year at Ara | Te Pūkenga in Christchurch.

While applicants from Ara’s waiting list for the just-commenced July intake are filling the spaces in the new cohort quickly, head of Department for Health Practice Genevieve Togiaso says there was the capacity for more

to take up the opportunity and applications are certainly open.

“Essentially there has never been a better time to study nursing,” Genevieve says.

“We’ve been well supported by Te Pūkenga to run this additional intake with staff and programmes ready to go. It’s busy getting this in place but it’s also an exciting move.”

The ākonga (students) will complete their first year of study based in Christchurch but importantly and for the first time, their clinical placements (in blocks of between five and 12 weeks) during their second and third years of study will be available all-over New Zealand.

Nurses studying through Ara | Te Pūkenga in Christchurch currently complete their clinical placements through Te Whatu Ora and other clinical providers in Canterbury, South Canterbury (Ashburton) and West

Blenheim Toyota

Coast (Greymouth).

Planning is in place to ensure travel and accommodation costs for those students completing their clinical placements outside of Christchurch will be covered.

“This offering could be a game-changer for anyone in the country looking for an opportunity right now to start their study,”

Genevieve says.

“No one else has a degree programme starting at this time of year.”

Genevieve says introducing ‘rolling intakes’ throughout the year such as this one could have a positive impact on building and supporting the health workforce.

“Our team has been thinking outside of the box, looking to innovate to respond to the needs of the sector.”

“Previously we’ve been quite fixed in terms of when clinical placements could

begin which created strong peaks of ākonga entering the system. This August intake will effectively stretch our calendar year and mean large volumes of students aren’t landing all at once.”

While applications were easy to complete online, Ara’s nursing department was also welcoming any prospective students to reach out directly if they required more information.

“Our admissions and enrolment team are ready to answer any questions about English language assessment dates, clinical placements and application requirements,” Genevieve says.

“What I would say is simply get in touch with our team and you could have your first semester of study completed by the end of the year.”

Enquiries should be directed to enrolmentsupport@ara.ac.nz

There’s never been a better time to study nursing. A new August intake for Bachelor of Nursing students at Ara Te Pūkenga could see Aspiring Marlborough nurses complete their clinical placements anywhere in the country with accommodation and travel costs covered.

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to the editor

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

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.

Hi Chris,

Many thanks for your publication of our Plein Air Group in the Sun. It was very well received and from that article I have had at least five more artists wanting to join our group.

Kind Regards Mary Russell Blenheim.

Dear Ed

Back in July of 2021 the Road Transport Authority paid for an independent consultant’s report re how NZ roads fair when using large chips over hot mix asphalt and then totally ignored its findings.

While the larger the chip size the greater the wear factor, with most motor vehicles now weighing on average 1.5 tonne, and utilizing 18” wide tyres, the road was not able to maintain an average life of 7 years.

With a larger chip seal of greater than 6mm, distracting noise would prove tiring and could lead to accidents. Also, fewer

Dear Editor

Tony Orman’s reference to Billy T James in his letter about the haka reminded me of the delightful humour on TV years ago between Billy T and Howard Morrison with their gentle poking fun at news bulletins and weather forecasts.

Oh, for those times when New Zealanders could laugh at themselves without someone taking offence and turning humour into an imagined major offence against humanity.

Dear Ed

Oh dear, GARDLESS CARMYANISM is overwhelming Godzone.

No doubt that’s why our rulers are using the Reserve Bank to take money from would-be home owners to give to the lucky, lucky shareholders and fatcat executives of our overseas-owned banking coterie.

Back in 2017 we found that, among 23 first world countries, ours had the 3rd biggest yawn-

grips were afforded, as when initially laid larger and wider tyres have a tendency to tear up the large chip surface, leading to road damage. It is this wear that then leads to water ingression and hence potholes. Unless the hole is fully dug out back to its foundation, a quick fix is very temporary indeed and it is these quick fixes that we have all seen, sometimes just hitting down the new mix with the back of a shovel instead of a compactor.

Why go for a large chip instead of either an asphalt, which basically is less weather dependent, or a concrete surface? It is cheaper

Having recently returned to New Zealand after 14 years overseas I am continually staggered at the bitterness and divisions which have massively increased here in the intervening period.

As an afterthought and as someone with substantial Welsh ancestry, could I request some road signs in Welsh?

Yours sincerely, David

Tranter

ing gap between those at the top and those at the bottom of the wealth ladder (OECD report). Only the US and Britain lead a more shameful separation. Has it got better in the past 6 years? You gotta be joking! No wonder my tradie oldest grandson and his nurse missus have shifted to OZ.

Yours, Bill Holvey

PS. King Dick, Mickey Savage and Big Norm must be rolling in their graves.

by a factor of seven to go this way, but very much a false economy.

Another looming problem is electric vehicles, on average adding an extra 500kg to the vehicles weight, and with even bigger tyres, equals even more damage to roads. In the UK, where their roads are built to a much higher standard, think of Transmission Gully and then some more, they are looking at up grading their concrete road network, which currently is around just 400 miles, something NZ needs to start planning for now.

Chris Davies

Past traffic signal engineer

Engagement on Sounds transport network brings more than 1,700

responses

The second phase of public engagement on the Marlborough Sounds Future Access Study wrapped up on 11 July.

The public were asked for their views on the ‘emerging preferred option’ and ‘hazard adaptation pathway’ and their estimated costs for each of the five storm-damaged areas of the Sounds, via a survey.

Over the engagement period, 500 people attended seven public drop-in sessions and an online webinar. The survey received at least 1,700 responses. The data received from the community will now be analysed by engineering consultancy Stantec as part of the business case development to be presented to Council later this year.

Acting Mayor David Croad said it was encouraging to see the level of interest in the study.

“It was clear from the engagement drop-in sessions and the number of surveys completed that people are passionate and concerned about the future transport network in the Sounds.”

“This is the first time Marlborough has worked through such a complex Waka Kotahi business case process. The transport challenge facing the Sounds is significant and we appreciate everyone’s willingness to embrace the engagement process.”

“Getting constructive feedback about the different options and pathways strengthens our proposal for funding, and ensures we make the

best decision possible for the Sounds, and the whole region.”

Acting Mayor Croad said the project team will now analyse feedback from Marlborough residents and ratepayers gathered through the online survey. This feedback will inform the business case, which is scheduled to be finalised by the end of August 2023.

Council will then review and consider adoption of the final business case before providing it to Waka Kotahi for endorsement before the end of this year.

It’s likely to be 2024 before Council will consult with all of Marlborough on the proposed options and costs through a special consultative process, before making a final decision. Waka Kotahi will then make a decision about its funding contribution.

It’s hoped that a staged rebuild could begin at the end of 2024 in some areas.

Prune hydrangeas with the experts

If you want a good show of hydrangea blooms in your garden next summer, then pop along to Pollard Park next Tuesday and learn from the experts.

Hydrangeas are a versatile shrub that require little attention but careful pruning in winter will keep your plant in shape and help produce better flowers.

Council’s gardening team is holding

demonstrations at Pollard Park next Tuesday and will also be available to answer questions.

Pruning will take place in the hydrangea garden next to the white summer house on Tuesday 25 July and there will be two sessions – the first from 9am to 10am and the second from 10.30am to 11.30am.

If it’s wet pruning sessions will be postponed to the following day.

Murphys Road upgrades finished

Murphys Road infrastructure and upgrade works – which began in January 2022 – are complete.

Project Engineer Mark Power thanked residents for their patience while the various works were underway.

“We appreciate it has been disruptive and want to thank residents and other road users for their patience in what has been a multi-faceted project,” he said.

The work involved three different procedures - the laying of new power cables by Marlborough Lines, a sewer upgrade and the replacement of a water main. They had to be done separately due to safety and

separation issues and because different contractors were involved.

“The Murphys Road watermain upgrade is complete apart from a short section of the old watermain which will be filled with concrete in the next two weeks,” Mark said. “This project followed on from Marlborough Lines installing multiple underground cables, and Summerset and Council installing the sewer pressure mains. The watermain is the last planned works for the near future.”

The infrastructure work was required to support the future expansion of housing and other development in Springlands.

Exploring the night sky

Budding astronomers are urged to head along to the Te kahu o WaipunaMarlborough library and art gallery on Tuesday (25 July) to hear New Zealand author Alistair Hughes.

The journalist and artist and keen astronomer will bring his New Zealand Night Sky book to life in a talk that runs from 3.30pm to 4.30pm.

He will take the audience around the constellations, planets, star clusters and the moon teaching them about Māori mythology and astronomy on the way.

Alistair’s book is an inspiring introduction for young readers about the night sky and his talk coincides with last Friday’s Matariki.

The book’s lavish illustrations bring distant galaxies to life and contains profiles of leading New Zealand astronomers including Sir William Pickering.

Alistair said he was privileged to have his imagination and appreciation of space fired by excellent teachers and

mentors and hopes to do the same to the next generation.

“We are immensely fortunate in New Zealand to live under one of the most spectacular night skies in the entire world,” he said.

The talk is aimed at students in years 8 – 12 with the language directly supporting links to key competencies in the curriculum.

Mark Lucas, Contract Manager at Schick Civil Construction (left) and Mike Cooper, Council’s Project Engineer, give the Murphys Road watermain upgrade a final check

Council gardeners demonstrating hydrangea pruning skills to local gardeners last winter

one

Rangitane o Wairau trustee Keelan Walker talks to Chris Valli about his involvement with this year’s Matariki celebrations at the Wairau Bar and the significance of the public holiday to Marlborough Iwi and the importance of keeping the korero/conversation alive.

Marlborough’s rich history runs wide and deep, from the earliest Polynesian settlers on Te Pokohiwi-o-Kupe/ Wairau Bar to the European pioneers who built towns and planted our first grapevines.

These people, the way they lived, and how they dealt with history’s major events has shaped Marlborough into what it is today. Those stories are all here, waiting to be discovered all over again in the places where they happened or in our galleries, museums, art and theatre productions.

Te Pokohiwi-o-Kupe/Wairau Bar, a gravel bar on Marlborough’s Cloudy Bay coastline where the Wairau River flows into the sea, is a place so historically significant that it is referred to as the birthplace of our nation.

Settled by Māori - the direct descendants of local iwi Rangitāne o Wairau - around 1300 AD, it is one of the oldest known settlement sites in Aotearoa.

Te Pokohiwi-o-Kupe (which refers to the shoulder of the legendary navigator Kupe), incredible history was literally dug out by recreational fossickers, farming activities and later, scientists.

Blenheim’s Keelan Walker is proud of his tupuna/ancestors and culture. His own cultural values and knowledge have played an integral part in shaping the person he is today. The 46-year-old Rangitane trustee can also whakapapa

(genealogy) to two local iwi, Ngati Toa Rangatira and Ngati Rarua.

Keelan says this year’s Matariki celebrations on the Saturday morning started with a karakia (prayer) and traditional chant by Rangitane cultural practitioner, Paora Mackie.

“We were expecting just over 100 from the RSVP’s but in the morning 250 turned up,” says Keelan.

Paora finished off by calling to those who were present to come forward and share and call out the names of loved ones who have passed away in the last year.

“Paora also shared with everyone the story of Matariki,” says Keelan. “This was followed by a karanga (welcome chant) by Judith MacDonald, who then gave a talk about the history and significance of the Wairau Bar to Rangitane.”

There was also a light projection played on a large screen which was an animation that told the story of

Rangitane ancestor, Kupe, and his journey across the Pacific chasing the great octopus, Te Wheke-a-Muturangi, to the Wairau.

For mer Prime Minister Jacinda Arden said in June 2022 the public holiday should not divide us by Maori ancestry or other, rather ‘it unites us under the stars of Aotearoa’.

“Matariki provides us with a chance to reflect; to think of those we have lost and to prepare and share a sense of hope and optimism for the future,” she said. “I can’t think of a better moment in time for us to take up what Matariki has to offer us as individuals but also as a nation.” She added that Matariki offered ‘a space where there is room for us all,’ she said.

So why is the Wairau Bar so significant to local Iwi let alone a whenua /land of significance for Matariki?

“It’s of historical significance to our people, not necessarily because of Matariki itself. We have a tribal whakatauki that goes... Tini whetu ki te rangi, ko Tanenuiarangi ki te whenua. Like the multitude of stars in the sky, so great is Rangitāne on the earth.”

Matariki aligns with the Maramataka, the ancient Polynesian lunar calendar used when Māori first arrived in Aotearoa around 800 to 1000 years ago. The maramataka system synchronises the daily activities of people with the natural world, moon, sun, stars and planets

The New Year begins with the first new moon following the appearance of the Matariki cluster, thus a new cycle. Traditionally, this was the time to acknowledge the dead and to release their spirits to become stars.

Matariki is the Māori name used to describe the star cluster. The time

frame is a period of weeks, not just one day. What is also known as the Māori New Year takes place from around late May to early July, with dates varying every year. Rangitane o Wairau believes there are nine stars that make up the cluster.

Keelan says personally, Matariki has become an opportunity for him to come together with whanau and friends, to share our tribal stories and knowledge with others, to celebrate the year that has passed and to look forward to the new year.

“Most importantly though it is a time to remember those close to us who have passed away.”

Keelan says Rangitane were delighted with the turnout to this year’s celebration and are already considering how we can improve on this year’s event.

“This will be something that we can enjoy not just as an iwi, but as a community event for all.”

“Most importantly though it is a time to remember those close to us who have passed away.”

Keelan says Marlborough and particularly the Wairau, is where he feels most comfortable because it is home. “I was born and raised here, as were my parents before me and so I feel a strong ancestral connection to the area.”

Photo Julian Cunningham

Family History Group 40 years

By Chris Valli

Marlborough families have had their fair share of famous people from sports identities to quite literally rocket scientists in the name of one William Pickering, the man responsible for America’s first satellite. Mind you, how does one define famous?

If it’s a name you’re after – whether Soper, Sutherland or Hammond - the Blenheim Family History Group is the ones to get in touch with when it comes to researching family history or whakapapa. Based at Brayshaw Park, this year marks 40 years since the inception of the group.

Spokesperson Chrissy Lamond says the group began in Blenheim about 1981 with a few people, interested in their family history, getting together to share ideas. “The first set of minutes is dated

23 July, 1983,” she says. “The group was situated in various places around town and took up membership with the New Zealand Society of Genealogists and eventually found a home in the Mason’s Hall at Brayshaw Park.”

Chrissie says there are two ladies from the first meeting who are still involved to this day.

By 2015 group numbers had dwindled. As a result, the group left the NZSG and took over two rooms next door; building bookcases, carpeting and installing power.

“Chris, one of our members got hold of one of the chainsaws and did a wonderful job. We had a major renovation carried out on our rooms recently by having a wall demolished to create one large, sun filled space. All the work was carried out by volunteers,” says Chrissy.

In 2018 a handful of new mem-

bers joined the group bringing with them new energy and ideas. The membership is now strong at 30 plus with four new members joining this year.

It means finding ones’ ancestors are becoming a little easier with the power of the internet and a team stacked with genealogical experience. A far cry from the tried and proven resource such as the microfiche, a sheet of transparent plastic which contained index information such as name of person and folio or journal number.

“We (still) have the New Zealand Microfiche film from 1854 – 1990 before it was computerised through the Department of Internal Affairs,” says Lauri.

“Normally people ring and we take it from there,” says Lauri. “We’re open on Thursday morning from 10 – 12 and we say come down with what you’ve got and

people will help them. There’s loads of experience here.”

The group now has a presence in the Marlborough Library, and every Wednesday a representative can be found researching in The

Boarding at Nelson College

I’m Tim Middleton, Director of Boarding and Deputy Principal at Nelson College. My family and I have recently relocated to the Nelson region and I am excited to be part of this dynamic community. I have worked in teaching and school leadership for 22 years, many of them spent in Auckland, teaching at Westlake Boys’ High School, Macleans College, St Kentigern College and One Tree Hill College, where I was Deputy

Principal. For the last two years, I have held a position at Whangamatā Area School as Associate Principal.

Boarding is at the heart of Nelson College, with boarders from New Zealand and across the world; the Pacific, Australia, Asia, Europe and the Americas.

From our newly refurbished on-campus hostels, boarders enjoy access to two gymnasiums, a pool, a weights room, playing

fields and music suites.

In this close-knit family environment, students enjoy a safe and busy lifestyle which gives them access to structured academic support, widespread opportunities, and the beautiful Nelson region.

We emphasise strong communication between home and boarding staff who ensure the safety and development of your son. These staff also have close links to the

day school, strengthening the academic support for all boarders. Boarding provides an organised week that includes school, sports and outside activities, as well as academic support through regular tutorials.

The sunny Nelson climate allows for year-round activities that include trips to the local beaches and rivers, ski field and lakes, as well as some city-based recreation.

Marlborough Room at the library. Blenheim Family History Group also works with Archives at the Marlborough Museum in dealing with a range of queries from the public.

HISTORY 101: Members of Blenheim Family History Club at their Club Rooms at Brayshaw Park. Back row, left to right: Chris McKay, Lauri Ashwell, Trish Shipley, Ilona Alloway. Front row, left to right: Chrissy Lamond, Levina Cuthbert, Ann Turnbull and Wendy Tait.

Supersales raise funds for very special holiday

By Glenise Dreaver

Candice Ellison has twice this year responded enthusiastically to the idea of garage supersales to raise funds for a special holiday.

Candice is a support worker for the Papatuanuku Independency Trust in Boons Valley Road, Waikawa Bay and along with four other support workers and eight of the trust’s residents will be taking a week’s post-winter break in Rotorua, leaving on August 7.

M a nager Pete Leach says the second supersale, held on Saturday July 15 meant the residents can use

their own savings for outings and spending money on the trip and won’t need them to supplement the travel fund.

The first sale, at Easter raised $4200. Supporter and organiser

Kate Johnson from HiTec Automotive says the results from last Saturday’s sale are still coming in but are shaping up to be even bigger.

The idea began with Kate and her husband Graham Johnson. Their firm, in York Street, has been a long standing supporter of the Papatuanuku Trust.

Kate knew there was a dream for the trust’s residents to have a

holiday together and decided to do something about it, raising funds through a monster garage sale. She approached their customers and others she knew would help and, she says, the response was overwhelming – even more so for the second one last weekend.

“I already had an idea where we could have it. The community hall in Picton opposite the skate park was ideal.

“And on the Easter holiday weekend we filled that hall for the twoday sale on the Saturday and the Sunday.” Last weekend, there was just one day of sales on the Saturday

after Matariki. Both times, volunteers also spent the day before setting up and the day after cleaning up.

The Papatuanuku residents were, says Kate, totally involved. “Setting up, unpacking, packing up.”

Candice added that for the Easter sale, the residents had also helped with stacking the wood from tree felling on the trust’s own property.

“We also had a sausage sizzle, and staff and residents did baking to sell at the sale,” Candice added.

For both sales, all over Picton, donors had cleared out their garages, finding furniture, fishing, and

sporting equipment.

And one of Kate and Graham’s donations was a raffle for a $300 service.

Kate adds to the list of what was brought in: “Clothes, jewellery, kitchenware, flowers pots, puzzles, books, CD’s blankets, curtains…”

Pete Leach says the Trust is incredibly grateful to the organisers, the donors and all who came along to support the ventures.

“It’s the first time for many years our Papatuanuku family has been able to holiday together and after a few tough years, it’s something very special for everyone.”

Police seeking silver van

Marlborough Police seek this van and it's occupant after an incident at Marfells beach yesterday.

The van registration is DPL231.

It is a Toyota Hiace coloured silver.

If you know where this van is or discover it. Do not approach or alert the occupant.

Ring 111 and give an accurate description of where it is. If it moves off do not follow but give a direction of travel being taken.

Papatuanuku staffers Candice Ellison and Therese Gardiner, with supersale organiser Kate Johnson beside the Foozeball table, one of the many hundreds of generous donations received for the trust's fundraiser.

Papatuanuku residents and helpers had a three day marathon effort last weekend, setting up, serving, and cleaning up after the second of their 2023 garage sales which raised funds for a long-awaited holiday together in August. From left, they are staffers Candice Ellison and Therese Gardiner, residents Gavin Hapeta, Sam Cloughton (obscured) and James Togoai, staffer Jenny Shields (front) with residents Terry Nicol, Tamati Materne and Josh Cooke.

SUPPORTING THE MARLBOROUGH COMMUNITY

Come to us for the right advice

We are now offering a new range of Low-E glass solutions that will align perfectly with the increased window and glazing standards outlined within the New Zealand Building Code H1 energy efficiency.

The new H1 Building Code changes are designed to ensure all homes in New Zealand will be warmer, drier, healthier and more comfortable.

For superior double-glazing solutions scan the QR code to go straight to our FREE ONLINE GLASS SELECTOR.

GLASS BALUSTRADES

Glass balustrades are increasingly popular in homes, public areas and commercial buildings. A glass balustrade is a modern and stylish safety barrier, providing strength and safety but with maximum unobstructed views.

GLASS SPLASHBACKS

Offering the natural beauty, structural strength and durability of glass, enhanced by extensive colour and texture options. Glass splashbacks and wall linings provide limitless customised design alternatives for the modern commercial or domestic fit out.

FRAMELESS GLASS SHOWERS

Our frameless shower enclosures are custom made and professionally installed to your individual requirements. The strength and safety of toughened glass provides a stylish minimalistic look.

Your trusted local Glass Company for 50 years

Airify - your first call for heat pump servicing

Heat pumps need regular cleaning and servicing to maintain them in peak performance.

A heat pump can reduce its output by up to 30 per cent if the filters and coils are not free from dirt, dust and bacterial contaminants. What about the outside unit? Does that need servicing also?

Yes it does, but not just the coils, the inside of the unit can be blocked up with dirt and plant matter.

A blocked drain hole will cause the bottom tray to fill up with water and then rust away.

You also need to check the white pipe lagging around the refrigerant lines, if they are exposed more than 20cm then you are losing heat or cooling to the outside air. These are easily repairable with a good service.

What should be done to the inside unit?

Again, a professional clean and service is vital to ensuring your coils are 100 per cent free from any contaminants, allowing good airflow.

Regular cleaning of your filters is very important however a professional clean and service is also required.

Airify is New Zealand’s largest professional heat pump cleaning and servicing company with over 20 years experience in ensuring your heat pump is pumping out the heat this winter.

Airify customers often say ‘Wow what a difference!’ And ‘So much heat! I don’t need to use electric heaters to top-up.’

A professional clean and service should leave your coils looking shiny and silver (unless they’re blue), not looking dark and black.

Some companies just use a vacuum cleaner or air-gun but Airify went away from that years ago, it just doesn’t get the job done.

Airify uses a high pressure injection system

to flush out the coils.

What kills a heat pump?

Simply poor maintenance and a poor install. The biggest and most important part is getting the install correct in the first place, this will double the life of your heat pump.

Installing a heat pump directly to the ground will cause issues later in its life. So get a local certified installer company to do it, that way if anything goes wrong you can go see them. Some other companies have ‘all the gear, but no idea.’

Keep the bugs and plants away!

Lots of heat pumps die early because of blown circuit boards. Have it maintained by a certified service technician, not just a man with a rag in his hand.

A good service technician will spot issues and fix them before they destroy your heat pump.

Have a warm and worry-free winter by contacting Airify Blenheim ph 0800 24 74 39 or go to www.airify.co.nz

Mark Taylor from Airify Blenheim. Airify customers often say ‘Wow what a difference!’ And ‘So much heat! I don’t need to use electric heaters to top-up.’

Winter Warmth 2018 Winter

Heat pumps - things you may not know

Cuddon have been supplying heat pumps in Marlborough since they were first developed. Our experienced team have some helpful facts and tips for homeowners:

Are they good for the environment?

Using your heat pump efficiently is great for the environment and your back pocket. They typically use electricity efficiently with a COP over 3 (Co-efficient Of Performance = energy in versus heat out) to heat your home. So they are the preferred option for efficient heating along with a well-insulated home.

New energy rating

Cuddon can provide advice on selecting the right heat pump for your home. New Zealand is adopting a new energy rating scale and label for heat pumps, based on the international Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) methodology which identifies how air conditioners perform in different climate zones.

The new rating scale will assess winter heating performance more accurately for New Zealand consumers.

The star ratings on the new label reflect how the heat pump will perform over a range of temperatures and allows an annual electricity figure to be calculated. This makes the new label more like the energy rating labels on

other appliances such as fridges and washing machines.

Heat pumps and noise

There’s no denying that a heat pump is a great energy efficient way to heat your home. However, consumers are becoming more conscious of how noisy their appliances, including heat pumps, are. With end-user mindsets changing to value quiet and yearround comfort, heat pumps are seen as a cost-efficient necessity not only in lounges but also bedrooms. As a result, we have seen a marked increase in sales for smaller capacity units overall.

When choosing a heat pump for the bedroom, noise levels are a key consideration. Consumers want a system that can keep the room warm as quietly as possible, so sleep isn’t disrupted. Starting from barely a whisper, at 18dBA*, the Mitsubishi EcoCore AP Series is ideal for bedrooms on the coldest of nights.

Furthermore, the Night Mode setting dims the indicator lights on the controller and disables any beeping sounds, minimising unnecessary interruptions. With the increase in higher-density housing, considering outdoor sound levels are just as important, especially if you want to keep your neighbours happy.

Night Mode lowers the operating noise level of the outdoor unit by a further 3dBA, so you can be rest assured that your neighbours won’t be disturbed either.

Combating allergens

Advanced filtration combats typical household allergens during the winter months with washable filter trapping particles such as dust, pollen and other airborne contaminants, generating stable antibacterial and deodorising effects. Mitsubishi’s new filter capture area gives the Air-Purifying Filters better dust collection performance than conventional filters. Resulting in a cleaner, fresher home

during winter that is perfect for asthma and allergy sufferers.

Keeping you warm during the winter months, Cuddon provide a range of heat pumps and heating solutions to help maintain a drier and healthier home for your family. Whether you want to warm things up or keep them cold, the friendly team can help from heat pumps and underfloor heating for your home or business to efficient commercial refrigeration and air conditioning systems. Visit Cuddon online at cuddon.co.nz or drop into 24 McArtney St to discuss a heating and cooling solution for your home.

Locals looking after locals

to us about your hearing needs

Caci Clinic

When it comes to enhancing your natural beauty and achieving radiant, youthful skin, Caci is the forefront of advanced skincare treatments. This month Caci New Zealand were awarded Remix Magazine Reader’s Choice ‘Best Beauty Destination for 2023’, they have held this award since 2017 providing #SkinConfidence all over the country. With a reputation for excellence and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, Caci offers a range of cutting-edge therapies designed to rejuvenate your skin.

Let’s explore some of their most sought-after treatments, including their new Laser Facial, Photo Rejuvenation, Microneedling, and Fractional CO2 Laser!

The Laser Facial combines a chemical peel and the benefits of thermal laser to provide a deep cleanse, exfoliation and stimulate skin cell turnover plus our skin’s natural healing function for an overall reset leaving you with a healthy, fresh glow - with no down time needed!

Microneedling treatment, a combination of hyaluronic acid, multivitamins and amino acids are infused to boost collagen production even more for healthier-looking skin.

Because Microneedling is a slightly more intensive treatment, it’s crucial that you are choosing your provider wisely. You really can’t put a price on your safety - or your skin!

Be sure to do your research before jumping under the needle to avoid any untoward results.

Fractional CO2 Laser is Caci’s most advanced skin treatment, it uses controlled damage which will cause our bodies to start producing all that collagen tissue we love to be stronger and firmer than before.

The treatment uses a carbon dioxide laser that works to tighten, resurface, and strengthen the skin by removing small plugs of skin.

This process helps to address skin elasticity, scarring and fine lines and wrinkles. The small areas of the skin are removed and promote healing. This pulls the skin together and strengthens its integrity.

Have peace of mind knowing we are your only locally owned, independent hearing experts. CALL FOR YOUR COMPLIMENTARY, NO OBLIGATION, VEIN ASSESSMENT & SCAN | Terms and Conditions: Bonus treatment offer applies to Reformaskin Advanced Memberships signed up between May 1 Aug 30 2023. Should you cancel your membership before completion of your course of treatments, the value of any ‘bonus’ treatments will be owed. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. 14 Market Street, Blenheim 03 577 7555 caci.co.nz and Rejuvenate your skin! GET GLOWING SKIN THIS WINTER WITH THE EXPERTS AT CACI BLENHEIM Sign up to one of our advanced skin memberships and receive a bonus treatment valued at up to $870 on us!*

21 Francis Street, Blenheim T: 03 579 3092 blackmoreaudiology.co.nz

•

• Beauty

Contact: katrina@blenheimsun.co.nz

It has been very popular since its recent launch, as customers on their Reformaskin membership are loving the ability to upgrade their treatments!

Photo Rejuvenation encourages the production of collagen in the skin, for a more youthful appearance. It uses a pulsed light which safely pulses high-energy light beams through the skin surface, targeting skin pigmentation in the underlying tissue and minor surface blood vessels. The light wavelengths are attracted to the melanin (pigment in the skin) and to oxy-haemoglobin (red blood).

This pulsed light treatment generates heat and stimulates an inflammatory response in the skin, triggering a healing process that results in a reduction of pigment and red blood vessels.

Once the pigment has been targeted, it comes to the surface of the skin, which then flakes away, leaving an improved skin texture and complexion.

Microneedling is an incredible treatment for all types of skincare concerns ranging from acne scars to breakouts, but it is also an amazing option for collagen stimulation.

This treatment uses micro needles at varying lengths to penetrate the skin, triggering our body’s own wound-healing response.

As we just learnt, when our skin is damaged, it produces new and improved collagen tissue.

Vitamins and amino acids are the building blocks for collagen production; during a

A Taste of Ireland

By Chris Valli

When the opportunity arises to witness dazzling dancers from Lord of the Dance, Riverdance and Gaelforce Dance all in the one show, you’d be a fool to pass it up.

A Taste of Ireland at the ASB Theatre on Saturday night was promoted as an energetic extravaganza t h at had entertained thousands worldwide.

Indeed it was a cultural lens to tap into the Irish narrative and themes from the Great Famine – a disease which affected the potato crop – to the unrest of the religious, political Northern Ireland conflict of days gone by.

The clash with a certain rugby fixture at Mount Smart Stadium was a conundrum but alas this writer’s ancestral links date back to County

Cork and my mother’s side of the Fitzgibbon clan. The Fitzgibbon descendants were known as the ‘White Knights’ on the account of their fair complexion. Pass me the SPF 50 sunscreen Seamus.

The story began with Fianna where bands of Irish Warriors came together for a common purpose. Followers of the mythical Irish giant, Fionn, who had a feud with the Scottish giant Benandoner. The cast portrays these figures through Irish music and dance.

A Taste of Ireland combined world-class Irish dancing, melodic folk music mashups, live acapella tap battles and craic galore for a night of entertainment that had the chap behind me in Row B finding his own harmonies in the revamped classics ‘Danny Boy’ and ‘Tell Me Ma’.

What made it all the more enthralling was the simplicity of the set, costumes and effects, all of which will take those that purchased a ticket on a journey through Ireland’s tumultuous history.

The show’s intricate dance routines were choreographed by national champion Brent Pace, an Irish dancer for over 20 years. His competitive dance career has taken him to achieve such feats as becoming a World Medallist, six-time National Champion and getting top placings at every major Irish dance competition in the World. And it showed. The craic was quick and entertaining. The Acapella tap contest was mesmerising with Pace’s feet a blur.

Another to feature predominantly was Ceili Moore, world champion and former lead dancer in Micheal

The show’s intricate dance routines were choreographed by national champion Brent Pace, an Irish dancer for over 20 years. The acapella tap contest was mesmerising with Pace’s feet a blur.

Flatley’s Lord of the Dance. The duo has made a name for themselves on international stages over the last few decades, both from Irish dancing families in Australia.

A personal highlight was the Irish bodhran (drum) from which Charlie Galloway raised the loudest, most heart-throbbing beat, using only a

very small drumstick. Another gem was the singing of Molly Malone. The song is considered the anthem of Dublin and one that has captured the heart and soul of all Ireland. It is not known whether Molly ever existed in reality, but she will live on as a part of Irish history. And so will a Taste of Ireland.

Digging deep for rescue helicopters

By Chris Valli

Nearly $35,000 has been raised in the Nelson Marlborough region to directly fund the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter. The figure represents a nearly 10% increase on last year’s effort and includes $34,873 raised in the region.

Overall, New Zealand communities came together to raise a total of $1.4m for New Zealand’s rescue helicopters in a hugely successful Chopper Appeal Month in May.

Westpac NZ General Manager

of Product, Sustainability and Marketing Sarah Hearn thanked everyone who dug deep to help keep our rescue choppers in the air.

“This year’s weather events around the country have underlined how important it is to have help close at hand, no matter where you live. The choppers fly about 25 missions a day around the country and are literally saving lives around the clock,” Ms Hearn says.

“Helping keep communities safe through our support of the Chopper is a big part of who we

are. We know many families are doing it tough at the moment, which is why we’re especially grateful for the generosity this year, whether the donations were large or small.”

Westpac staff and community groups teamed up on creative fundraising efforts from dog shows, movie nights and quiz nights to bike rides and golf tournaments, with all funds raised going to local chopper trusts. People can donate to Chopper Appeal all year round and can find out more information by visiting www.chopperappeal.co.nz.

$34,873 was raised in the Nelson/Marlborough region, a 10% increase in last year’s fundraising efforts.

TRADES PROFESSIONALS

Who to call to get the job done right!

This year, Pauline and Jason Gregory are celebrating their 30th anniversary of ownership of Gregory Engineering in Picton. They are understandably proud of their three decades in business. But, of course, the truth is that this business started years before 1993 under Jason’s father, Roy. Pauline credits much of their business’ success to the family values that they still hold dear. She says, “We’ve built long-lasting relationships with our clients over the years. Our customers know we are honest and trustworthy with a strong focus on quality. Our family name depends on it!”

Best known for getting his valued customers out of a pickle Jason Gregory is very much a hands-on owner and operator. He understands the importance of passing on the skills he learned from his father. And now Jason and Pauline’s son, Josh, has joined the business; it’s a multi-generational family affair again!

Jason thinks one of the biggest misconceptions about being a Marine & Engineering company is that they only deal with boats. But this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Gregory Engineering services most industries across Marlborough, working with large and small businesses. They cover Aquaculture, Construction, Building, Viticulture and Food Processing Industries’ needs as a one-stop shop in all things engineering. They also work with residential customers on smaller one-off jobs.

The company has a diverse team of staff and operates five separate departments across

its Picton-based premises. Fabrication in Stainless Steel, Mild Steel or Aluminium, Machining, 24/7 Hydraulics & Servicing, Steel Supplies & Trade Shop and CNC Cutting & Folding.

It’s been almost ten years since their CNC Precision Water Jet Cutting Department opened for business, Pauline says, “Helping other companies improve their efficiencies or providing the confidentiality required when designing new products are our specialities.”

With free delivery across the region, they are happy to help with large or small production runs in this department.

To learn how Gregory Engineering can help you with your next engineering job or project, call them on 03 573 6223 or check out their website www.gregoryengineering.co.nz

Jason Gregory and Josh Gregory.

Jason Gregory and son Josh. Jason learned his skills from his father, Roy, and is passing those skills on to Josh.

Sun The txt talk with

Lighten up

What’s all the fuss about doing the haka from the world women’s cup? Time to lighten up. We all need more humour in this country.

TV

What goes on now with Television NZ , turned TV on Monday morning to find Matariki celebrations on 5 different channels, we don’t get that coverage on any other event, just shows where this country is heading.

Motorised cart

Driving a motorised go cart at midnight up and down Lansdowne St, is this legal? boom boom with excessive music keeping everyone awake, height of ignorance, some of us have to work, how about some consideration for people in the neighbourhood? I bet if it was the other way round you’d be the first to moan. Have a think.

World Economic Forum

The WEF is an organization which is funded by rich elite psychopaths and controlled by Klaus Schwab. Their aim is to reduce the Earths population by about 90 percent and have those that are left controlled by a One World Government where you would live in a 15 minute city, own nothing, but you would be happy.

This organization has a Patron who obviously shares their aims and values and is none other than our very own King Charles the Third.

Interpretation

Fascinated by the Maori name gifted to the new library, Te Kahu O Waipuna; “ The cloak of spring water” Without the English translation how does someone reading the sign know kahu refers to cloak and not the harrier hawk and waipuna to spring water, not water hole or water fountain?

Is it that Maori being a metaphorical language the interpretation is left to the imagination of the reader?

Wait lists

They’re wondering why the waitlists are still extreme one year into the new Te Whatu Ora? It’s simple....too much money has been directed to focus on Treaty of Waitangi teachings, so long after the fact. Health is Health, and should not be about watching the ‘p’s and ‘q’s of staff needing to learn Te Reo to be able to “deliver their expertise”.

How many GPS, surgeons, nurses have been sacrificed because of this unnecessary workforce development? Come on, get a grip on reality.

Deplorable Pothole Plight

Two questions for the (hopefully outgoing) Government.

Exactly how much in road taxes...plus the associated GST on same...is being ripped out of motorists pockets annually versus how much is being spent on road maintenance?

And why are our road surfaces not being made minimally safe to help reduce our deplorable road accident and death tolls.

Hope there’s someone left (not Global airpoint accumulating tripping) in The Beehive to answer!

Misconceptions

You can’t fully understand a culture until you learn their language. We need to stop thinking of our “rights” and start thinking of our responsibility to future generations. We don’t want them inheriting our misconceptions... we want a country that understands its own.

Matariki

I, along with many others attended the Matariki celebrations out at the Wairau Bar. What a magical morning! To anyone wanting to learn more about the Maori culture I fully recommend you attend next year’s event.

Stuffed

The Country is stuffed, mainlanders have known that for year’s, go Nobby Clarke, your on the right track.

Old Renwick Road

It’s surprising how many drivers still don’t or won’t recognise the 50km speed limit that was put in place of the 70km limit on Old Renwick Road from the Lansdowne Park corner. It changed two years ago! Rest assured, you will get a ticket.

Negativity

Why so much negativity on this page? You will be so much happier when you frame things more positively in your mind, because most of what you are whining about does have a positive side to it - you just choose not to see it. Open your mind. How you’ve always done it is not necessarily the right path forward.

Road to Zero and Foggy mornings

Last Tuesday, whilst driving into Tuarmarina, from Picton, noted 2 police vehicles driving north, neither of which had their dipped headlights on, nor a dark grey suv in front of them. A poor example lost!

Re: Political skullduggery

I whole heartedly agree with these comments, I had exactly the same thoughts. Why was this Parliamentary Services employee’s first port of call “the media”? Yes a smelly rat here.

Casino rumours

Several rumours circulating from reliable sources that 2 international players are looking seriously at the former Clubs of Marlborough for a Casino. Can anyone provide any details?

Have a listen

There’s a great little Blenheim radio station on FM 107.1, Radio Bradshaw. No advertisements, no rubbish “music”, good mix of easy listening Music from yesteryear. Have a listen.

Club recovery team

I read that there is a Club Recovery team and that they are waiting for the sale of the Clubs of Marlborough building before they can proceed further. So thank you to this team who seem dedicated to meeting the needs of all those who lost a social venue in Blenheim last November.

Vaping

I bumped into a couple of people having a cigarette break out the back of their building the other day. I was surprised at how refreshing it was to see someone smoking an actual old school cigarette, and not disappearing in to fruit-flavoured mist! Aside from those trying to give up smoking, I find the whole concept of vaping ridiculous. Remember back in the day, when cigarettes were marketed as the healthy option?

Alcohol

Interesting findings by the recent Otago University study, and not surprising really. Alcohol has more far reaching effects than any other substance, particularly when measured by the health effects and $$ of healthcare needed to treat these ailments. Not a lot to be done about it of course. Govt will spend millions trying to educate us on the evils of booze while they crank up the excise tax and boost their revenue from the sale of liquor.

Talk of the week

Brass triumphant

Well done to the members and management of our Marlborough District Brass Band, and in particular Drum Major Denis Teeling. Your performance and results at the recent National Champs did us proud!

Teachers, share your PASSION!

I too see many drivers looking down at their phones, some whilst they drive over the raised courtesy crossings in town! Please put your phones down. If you injure someone or worse, it will be on your conscience.

Cell phones Library

I love love love the new Library! This will be such an asset to our community for generations to come.

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.

Seriously dangerous drugs v alcohol

Oh the irony, Otago University.....many of whose students specialize in alcohol abuse...claim alcohol is more dangerous than hard drugs! While the difference of the impact of alcohol v hard drugs on the human body is not(highly) debatable, the fall out from hard drugs has catastrophic consequences for NZ’s total Community. The crime activities of both the abhorrent suppliers (primarily anti-human gangs) and users to feed their habits, the irreparable health damage to users, the adverse effect on family members of drug users and the overall Community (Impacted by increased fear & insurance premiums...from drug fueling thefts), leaves no doubt that hard drugs are by far and away the more problematic.

teachers retiring in the last year, we are looking for new kaiako to bring their passion and challenge us as educators. Looking for full time, part-time and casual teachers. Qualified and unqualified. Call us today!

Jamie arbuckle

 Are you a dog or cat person?

Dog, I have three Swedish Vallhunds.

 My friends would say I am...

Helpful and hardworking.

 The best advice I ever received was?

Stay true to yourself.

 What would you buy if money was no object?

Race horse.

 Local coffee haunt?

CPR by Farmers.

 Favourite takeaway?

Noodle Canteen .

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

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

Richard Hadlee autographed autobiography from my late Mum.

 Where is your happy holiday place? Gold Coast.

 Favourite programme or series currently watching? You.

 What’s one thing on your bucket list?  Going to Parliament, Party Vote NZ First.

Growing healthy roses: By Wally

There are a number of things that are vital to a healthy plant besides sunlight, food, water and a healthy ‘Soil Food Web’. That is those micro-organisms and beneficial fungi which not only live in the soil but also ‘in’ and ‘surrounding’ a plant.

Earthworms are also vital to healthy soil and plants; if there are no earthworms or few in number, you have a problem and you cannot hope to have really healthy soil till you have good worm populations.

I write about this in relation to food crops but the same principals apply to having great roses also.

Plant diseases are natural and are the garbage removers in nature, assisting in the quicker decomposing of plant material that has done its time, converting it back to organic food for other plants to live on. In nature we talk about the ‘survival of the fittest’. Plants that become weakened for some reason are very susceptible to diseases.

Pests also tend to hone-in on weaker plants rather than on the strong healthy ones. Gardens of my childhood, 50 odd years ago, were brimming with life, plants and roses were very, very healthy, no chemical sprays were used, there was no need for them.

It was impossible to put a spade into the garden without cutting a few worms in half.

The soil we had in those days was feed compost made from chook manure (everyone had a few chooks), and organic wastes. Other animal manures would be sort after along with seaweed.

All of these feed the soil life and worms, so plants in gardens, radiated health.

Vegetables and fruit grown were also brimming with health and contributed to a much healthier society than we see today.

So what went wrong?

We introduced chemically made fertilisers into the gardens and these fertilisers, knocked back the soil life including the worms.

Plants lost their healthy glow and diseases began to appear. So problems evolved, which made the chemical companies smile as they created new chemical sprays to solve the problems.

Fungicides may control some diseases but they also kill the beneficial fungi that the plants need for good health! New chemical poisons where found for killing the insects which were attacking our unhealthy plants.

These poisons were also killing the soil life and after a time the sprays (DDT, Arsenic of Lead, etc) were found to be very dangerous to ourselves as well.

So they were banned. To be replaced by what was considered safer poisons, many of which have also been banned.

Most of the now fewer chemicals available to the home gardener currently, are likely to be banned also in time to come, as they also prove too dangerous to the environment and our health. Many have been already banned in some countries.

Richards

Herbicides also knock back soil life and can have long term residues. Weed killers containing Glyphosate is the most used chemical in agriculture with millions of tons of it going into the planet, worldwide each year.

Besides the damage it does to the soil over the long term it has been certified as a probable carcinogenic by the World Health Organisation.

Well that is the background to what has happened to our gardens and why our roses and other plants are not as healthy as they should be.

What can you do to grow healthy roses and other plants? Firstly stop using chemical fertilisers and sprays. Purchase instead organic compost and mulches from your garden centre.

Look for the ones that contain animal manures and not made from green wastes as roses die if given compost made from herbicide effected composts.

Sheep manure pellets was shown by consumer to the best all round garden fertiliser in trials they did a several years ago.

Other products that are beneficial to the soil include, blood and bone, seaweeds, gypsum, garden lime, dolomite, biophos and any animal manures.

These will help feed the soil life and restore things as nature intended.

You can also feed the soil life with products such as Magic Botanic Liquid and Mycorrcin which assists in repairing the damage done by chemicals.

I was told by a gardener that had sprayed one group of roses with these two products for a season.

In autumn the roses thus treated were in flower, new buds coming, no sign of diseases and looking very healthy. Another group of roses not so treated were finished for the season, covered in black spot and rust and not looking happy.

The gardener also told me the treated ones all had produced scents that he had not noticed before as they were not scented type roses.

We need to build up the health of the soil and as this can take a season or two, during this time we need to protect our plants from diseases and pests without using chemical solutions that are going to affect the soil life.

Pests can be controlled with Wallys Super Neem Tree Oil.

Neem Oil also tends to reduce the problem of black spot.

Diseases such as rust, black spot, powdery mildew and botrytis are controlled by sulphur sprays, not copper.

Copper is best for blights, downy mildew and bacterial diseases along with fruit tree diseases.

Thus a film of copper over the foliage will give good external protection.

Used every 14 days with Raingard added. The alternative is sprays of potassium permanganate or Condys Crystals.

For internal protection you can boost the plant’s immune system with Perkfection Supa, used once a month only.

If your garden lacks a good number of worms, then you need to get worms going again and the best way to do this is to buy in bags of worms.

Put some into a good worm farm and seed the rest into the garden. You do this by making a hole and placing shredded wet newspaper and kitchen scrapes into the hole.

Place a handful of worms into the hole then cover with wet paper and compost. Do this in each major garden such as rose bed and vegetable gardens.

To keep the worms happy and multiplying, mulch gardens a couple of times a year with wet newspapers covered with animal based compost or mulch.

It is also important for both worms and soil life not to water your gardens with chlorinated tap water.

Put in a 10 micron carbon bonded filter to remove the chemical from the water.

Roses also need a certain amount of magnesium, potassium and trace elements. These are easiest to supply as Wallys Unlocking your Soil plus Fruit and Flower Power.

The reward would be perfect shaped roses, lush green foliage and a mild to heady perfume.

A good healthy program would be a two weekly spray of Mycorrcin, MBL and Wallys Neem Tree Oil.

Every second spray or once a month add Perkfection Supa to the above at the lessor spray rate on the label.

Questions? Ph 0800 466 464.

Marlborough District Councillor

Stagelab rehearsal

t he talented children of local performing arts group StageLab at a recent rehearsal. their show ‘How to Eat Like a Child’ is on next month at Marlborough boys’ College from thursday, August 10 – Sunday, August 13. tickets are available at the ASb theatre.

& & Out Ab O u t

Photos: Aimee Preston unscripted Love Photography

Daniella Clarke in full character.

HOW TO ACT AND EAT LIKE A CHILD: The junior group going through their paces at a Thursday rehearsal.

ALL FOCUS: Tahlia Bassett focuses on her dialogue at rehearsal.

FOLLOW ME: The intermediate group working together to a routine.

EYES AND MOUTHS TO THE FRONT: Aurora Corbyn, Oli Armour and Eddie Davies in fine form.

PREP TIME: From left; Ellie Beamsley, Poppy Fernandez, Lou Muir, Emma Straker and Sophia Ladeia.

I CAN’T HEAR YOU: Director Rose Platenkamp leading the charge in a recent rehearsal.

The intermediate group practising their choreography and in tune.

Emma Straker, Willow Baker and Cushla Cook in rehearsal mode.

Marlborough UW Hockey returns to Central Zones

A recent trip to the capital sent Marlborough players in high spirits to Central Zones, a South Island and Wellington teams-based competition where teams must get 5th or greater to attend Nationals.

The Marlborough boys and girls junior team consisted of Marlborough players from MGC, MBC and Bohally playing in the junior open.

The all Marlborough team got 3rd, an outstanding result for the up and coming juniors securing a place at Nationals had they not been a composite team, but unfortunately this placed them back to 6th place.

Senior players from MGC and MBC joined with Nelson schools Waimea College and Nayland College to make a composite senior open team.

The seniors battled through to 5th place, a very good result which showed the strength of the players against some very tough competition but being composite they got placed back to 7th.

The teams would like to thank the manager Tracy Norton and coach Bruno Brosnan,

and assistants Marama Stanbridge-Brien and Chris Walker for coaching the senior team, and manager Ank Mulder and coaches Richard Price and Bryan Bailey

Paddle for Hope

By Chris Valli

A remarkable voyage unfolded last Thursday as paddlers from all corners of the south geared up for a 4500km indoor paddle around New Zealand.

The inspiring endeavour aimed to raise awareness and vital funds for youth mental health charity I Am Hope.

Mike Robinson, the event organiser, says it’s crucial to shed light on mental health struggles within the community.

“I have witnessed first-hand the silent

battles fought by many in our community against the Black Dog, including my own. Emerging from one of the darkest holes in years, it was the collective strength of those around me that pulled me out. This journey is not just about me; it’s a reminder of the power of community and the imperative to support one another,” he says.

The journey commenced from various locations around the South Island including Blenheim’s Marlborough Youth Trust/My Space where Simply the Breast, a team of breast cancer survivors, successfully rallied

for coaching the juniors. The club received a grant from Pelorus Trust which helped towards the tournament costings.

support from the Blenheim Fire Brigade and local police.

The event started on Thursday, July 13 at 7pm and culminated on Monday, July 17 at 7am. Participants employed rowers, rowing machines, canoes, kayaks, wakas and dragon boats, collectively aiming to conquer the target distance of 4,500km. At the time of writing, Mike says a total of 2035 km was travelled while $2267 was raised on the Give a Little page. They were still waiting for $360 in cash donations to be deposited.

Wanted to Buy

WAN t ED TO BUY- Old tobacco tins, NZ postcards, military items, garden tools, woodworking tools, records from the 1970’s/80’s, old petrol station related items, fountain pens, crystal decanters/whisky & wine glasses, NZ history books, gold jewellery, antique bottles, Tonka, Fun Ho & tin toys, white Crown Lynn vases & swans & all collectables. Collector of NZ / Maori & whaling related artifacts. All of the above are popular & fetching good money at the moment. Free quotes we travel. Rarity, condition & collectability = more $$$. Just Browsing 26 Battys Rd (03)5775402.

St A MP and coin collections, old toys, post cards etc Cash paid. Local Ph 021 138 8949

Adult

XXX rated pleasure, here only until 30 July. Ph 02041058586 no text.

txt talk

Text your thoughts to: 027 242 5266

Marlborough Caravan Club INC

AGM 7pm, Tuesday 22nd August 2023 Cloudy Bay Funeral Home, 15 Boyce Street, Blenheim Changes to Constitution Contact President ph 027 416 0542 for apologies.

Clothing Alterations: by Lynette Atkinson-Parker

SIMPLY THE BREAST: Members of the Simply the Breast - a group of cancer survivors (and local dragon boat women's team) doing their bit for mental health and youth suicide raising money for the I Am Hope charity at Marlborough Youth Trust last week. Joining them were members of the Blenheim Fire Brigade.

Golf Results

Marlborough Golf Club

Tue 11 Jul: 9 Hole Stableford Div.1: Leana Gargiulo 16, June Maslin 12, Suzanne Clifford 12. Div.2: Lorraine McMath 8. 12 July, Avril Watson Stableford : Jo Grigg 31, Lucy Jefferis 26, Debra Nicholls 25.

Thu 13 Jul: Men’s Stableford Div.1: Alastair Boylae 38, Brian Chippendale 36, Ian Newport 35, Brian Brohm 35,

Wairau Valley Golf Club

Sat 15th Jul: Par Round:

Ladies: Maureen McKenzie -3, Robyn Pupich -3, Alison Graham -3, Mel Hampton -4, Yvonne Wallace -5. Men: Glen Griffiths

Werner Pluss 34, Tom Kelsall 32, Tony Gill 32.

Sat 15 Jul: Men’s Stableford Div.1:Bruce Snowden 39, Liam Keegan 33, Mike MacLeod 32, Blair Chicken 32. Div.2: Duncan Bint 32, Lance Nuttall 31, Euan MacKellar 31. Div.3:Brian Chippendale 35, Corey Franson 35, Jeff Clarke 35.

Picton Golf Club

Tue 11 Jul: Ambrose Nett- Sharon Eden/ Julie Rosie 70.5; Denise Finch/Mary Butler 73.25; Jo Prescott /Ricky Asworth 74.0.

Thu 13 Jul: S/F- Ian Aldridge 40, Graham

Phone 03 578 1010 or 027 578 1010

For your sewing requirements Quality Service Guaranteed

Bridge lessons for beginners, Wednesday evening, starting 16th August. $30 for series of 10 lessons or $50 includes lessons and Bridge club membership for the rest of this year. Contact Andrew 578 8573.

Marlborough Returned and Services Association (Incorporated)

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING BLENHEIM BOWLING CLUB 2PM ON SUNDAY 10th SEPTEMBER 2023

BUSINESS

1. Confirmation of Minutes of AGM held 24th September 2022.

2. Adoption of Annual Report and Balance Sheet from the period ending June 2023.

3. Announcement of results of Elections for Office.

4. Notices of Motion

5. General Business.

Please note: Nominations for Committee and notices of Motion in accordance with Club rule 20 opens 10am Monday 7th August and closes 5pm Friday 18th August 2023. Marlborough RSA.

+2, Mike Collins +2, John McLauchlan -1, Richard Bruce -2, Rob Chee -3, Mike McKenzie -3, Rex McGarry -3. Twos: Richard Bruce, Mike Collins, Robyn Pupich

Çouldrey 40; Gary Aldridge 38; Jeff Pascoe 37, Nick Wright 37; James Fattorini 32; Jock Mannington 31, Iain Berrie 31.

Chloe Vervaart pushes up against strong Wellington opposition at the recent Central Zones Tournament, part of the qualifying process for the New Zealand Secondary Schools Underwater Hockey Championships.

Kyren eyes on the prize

By Chris Valli

Rugby’s a funny old game. Just ask Waitohi’s Kyren Taumoefalau who took the field from the bench for Tonga against Australia A last Friday.

Known affectionately as the ‘Ikale-Tahi’, they kicked off their pre-Rugby World Cup preparations defeating Australia A 27-21 at Te’ufaiva Park in Nuku’alofa.

The Waitohi and former Marlbor ough Boys’ College First XV back was included in the 23 man squad ahead of the world cup in France

Proud Dad Tonga Taumoefalau says Kyren is ‘pretty full on’ train ing at the moment after what has been a whirlwind year for the 20year old after representing Tonga on the 7’s circuit and now in the 15’s format.

Tonga says Kyren has great self-belief and knew he had the potential after ‘not being recognized locally’.

“He decided at the age of 18 to have a crack and back himself at representing Tonga in footy,” Tonga says. “Sevens was the opening where he trialed over several weeks and made the cut. That’s where the Ikale Tahi saw him and the rest is history.”

Kyren represented the Tongan Barbarian Schools at the World School 7’s in January 2022 and burst onto the World Men’s 7’s for Tonga. He

was part of the side that won Oceania 7’s last year in Brisbane and was one of the impact players at the Hamilton and Sydney World Series. He also represented the Moana Pasifika under 20’s.

Several former Wallabies and All Blacks made their return to their homeland at the weekend to wear the red of Tonga with over 10,000 fans cheering their heroes on. The Tongan team featured former Wallaby Israel Folau and former All Black midfielder Malakai Fekitoa.

Tonga will now meet the Flying Fijians in Lautoka, Fiji, this Saturday in their opening Pacific Nations Cup

match.

The Ikale Tahi will line up in Pool B, beginning their RWC 2023 campaign against Ireland in Nantes on 16 September, before playing Scotland in Nice on 24 September, South Africa in Marseille on 1 October and finishing against Romania in Lille on 8 October

In 2011, the Ikale Tahi achieved an historical 19-14 victory over France in world cup. The 2023 version is scheduled to take place from September 8 – October 28 in nine venues across France. It is the first time the Rugby World Cup is to take place entirely in France.

Ryan all smiles in Hamburg

By Chris Valli

All the hard work has paid off for Blenheim’s Ryan Marfell.

Ryan has finished a credible eighth in the U19 Sprint Distance Age Group Triathlon World Champs in Hamburg, Germany. The Super Sprint format comprises a 300m swim followed by a 7.5km bike ride and a 1.75km run.

Ryan has success at regional and national level including first place in the U19 New Zealand Schools Triathlon Champs in 2021. Ryan’s coaches and mentors comment

on his fantastic work ethic and mental resilience, both essential to continue to perform well in his chosen field.

The 17-year-old was ‘super stoked’ with his result and wanted to thank his coach, Mark Grammer, his parents, family and friends.

In 2021, Mark said he saw a bright future for the teenager.

“Ryan is one of those kids that have a natural ability to win, he’s one of the most talented youth runners I have ever seen,” he says.

Ryan wanted to acknowledge his local sponsors including Berakah

Estate, Inspire Foundation, Bikes and Scooters, Benoli Vineyards, Blenheim Round Table, Provincial Coldstores Limited and Solutions 93.

Meanwhile, Olympic bronze medalist Hayden Wilde is the newly crowned Super Sprint World Triathlon Champion after winning the final in Hamburg with an early burst on the run.

New Zealand’s Wilde broke away on the first lap of the 1.75km run course to clock 19 min 26 sec, mere seconds ahead of Portugal’s Vasco Vilaca and Britain’s Alex Yee.

HAPPY DAYS: Blake Miller and Ryan Marfell.

IN FULL FLIGHT: Kyren in 7’s action for Tonga earlier this year.

THE LITTLE FELLAS TO THE BIG TIME: Kyren Taumoefalau, third from left in front row, as part of the Seddon Shield U52kg rugby tournament in Nelson, 2015. The Waitohi player has been included in Tonga's final training squad ahead of September's Rugby World Cup in France.