23 August Blenheim Sun Newspaper

aroha and light

By Chris Valli

Simplicity of human interaction brought delight in the form of angels at Waterlea Lifecare last week.

Residents at the McLauchlan Street facility were in their proverbial element as children from Blenheim’s Education Angels – an in home childcare company – reminded their senior counterparts of the joys of play and social interaction.

Continued on page 2.

Janvi Jyothis is all smiles after visiting residents at Waterlea Lifecare last week.

it makes me want to go back again

Continued from page 1.

One child was perplexed why the balloon was stuck to her clothing while another was more concerned why his balloon popped when he placed it behind him. As for Janvi Jyothis she was the star of the morning and charmed the pants off the residents who had smiles as wide as the Wairau Bar.

Indeed, there was something magic seeing the dynamic between old and young with the young telling many a yarn that fascinated many a resident including Iris Hartshored.

“It’s lovely, nice. It makes you look back and think about what you were like at that age,” she says. “Children are children aren’t they? Sometimes, they give you more than what you really expect. Fun, enjoyment. The whole interaction of it all.”

“It makes me want to go back again,” says Pat Brand. “I was the youngest of the family. Having the children here made me think did I give my own kids the same sort of upbringing?”

Iris nods in supportive encouragement and gives Pat a loving, reassuring pat on the thigh just to reinforce any doubts.

Education Angels provide quality care and education for families.

Visiting Teacher Robyn Lynn says the idea of the visit came from the educators previously visiting the elderly at another rest home a couple of years ago and had mentioned

how valuable the experience had been.

“The educators mentioned the elderly loved being around the children and their faces lit up as they interacted with the younger children,” says Robyn.

Robyn’s role is to visit educators in their homes once a month and teach them how to become effective educators in caring for children zero to five-years of age.

Educators and children can attend Education Angels Forest Schools and playgroups each month, as well as social events providing a supportive community for educators and families.

A British experiment in 2019 found there were benefits for both the children and the pensioners who took part in daily activities together. Almost all of the older people in a Bristol retirement home were struggling with some combination of depression, lack of mobility and loneliness, and some saying they found life dull. After several weeks of shared daily activities designed by a gerontologist, a geriatrician and a physiotherapist, their mental and physical health had dramatically improved. Tests at the end revealed positive changes in mood, mobility and memory throughout the group.

Pat Brand and Iris Hartshored take great pleasure and delight with the children from Angel Educators visit.

Educator Susanna Carnell with Knox Davies, Lucus MacPherson and Johnny Rikki.

Chris ‘The Best Song in the World’

By Chris Valli

Blenheim’s Chris Lippiatt believes wholeheartedly in representing his charity for Stars in Their Eyes this coming weekend.

Chris’s chosen charity is St Mary’s Youth who have been operating a youth group since the early 70’s and still going.

“In this modern age there are less youth groups in operation than there used to be when I was a teen, but I feel they are more important than ever to get young people hanging out face to face in a safe environment especially in this digital age,” he says. “St Mary’s Youth provides weekly youth group sessions, open to all youth, with games, free time and food. They hold young adult social groups and excursions like snow days, beach days and camps that are free or heavily subsidized which is a great service given the rising cost of living. But with extremely limited funding, the prize

money from Stars in Your Eyes would go a very long way.”

Chris appeared as Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder in the 2021 version of Stars. When asked what was the motivation to give Stars another crack two years on he says 2021 was a great learning curve for him.

“I was surprised by how many people didn’t know about who Eddie Vedder was. Once I overcame how sad that made me feel I decided to come back with a more wellknown celebrity. Another reason I’m coming back is that I really believe in the charity I’m supporting and will keep trying to raise money for the awesome work they do for young people,” he says.

He will be performing as Tenacious D duo Jack Black (the other was American comedian Kyle Gass) singing Tribute. The song became a hit in Australia and New Zealand, peaking at number four on the Australian Singles Chart and number nine on the New Zealand

Singles Chart.

“I chose this song because Jack Black is a fat guy with a beard; I’m a fat guy with a beard, so I’m half way there already,” he says. “He’s the most awesome guy in the world. People of all ages know and love him from somewhere, whether it’s from the Mario movie, Jumanji, High Fidelity, or that forgotten gem The Never Ending Story Part Three.”

“Tenacious D shows that dudes with greying hair and dad bods can be the most metal guys on the planet.  Tribute is definitely their fla gship song and has become a modern anthem, one of those songs that everyone will sing along to whenever it comes on, and no matter how few words they actually know. My interpretation of the song is that it’s a song about the best song in the world. What is that song? No one knows because it was only played once in all of history to defeat a shiny demon. It’s a ballad

Chris Lippiatt

like the devil went down to Georgia, except this time the devil went up against two pretty average guys who beat him with guitars. Was it skill, luck, divine inspiration? Who knows? That’s the enchanting magical mystery of the thing.”

Chris arrived in Blenheim in 1990 and lives with his wife and two children in Renwick.

His day job is as a warehouse coordinator while his extra-curricular jobs include stand-up comedy, qu izmaster and karaoke host at Fairweathers. He’s also an award winning film maker, wr iter, and hosts a podcast on Fresh FM with local comedian Tod Hopkins where they discuss the positive qualities of bad films.

Sun The

Public invited to resilience workshops

If you live in Seddon, Linkwater or Rarangi, come along to an upcoming community meeting aimed at helping communities enhance disaster resilience. The meetings, which will run as workshops with refreshments provided, are:

Linkwater - 23 August from 6.30pm to 8pm at Linkwater School

Rarangi - 24 August from 6.30pm to 8pm at Rarangi Community Hall

Marlborough Emergency Management has been awarded funding from the National Emergency Management Agency’s Resilience Fund to carry out a regional resilience analysis. This is to help identify focus areas for Marlborough’s work programme, Senior Advisor Community Resilience and Recovery Dave Parsons says. Further workshops will be run in other communities in the future.

Night-works planned for SH1 Weld Pass

Essential maintenance work is planned for Weld Pass this week, meaning people travelling between Blenheim and Seddon can expect short delays.

The works are planned for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights (22, 23, and 24 August) between 8pm and 6am. Contractors will fix guardrails, clear channels and drains, replace missing edge marker posts, remove litter, as well as carry out general repairs to keep the road safe for traffic. The work has been deliberately timed to be done at night when traffic volumes are lower to minimise disruption as much as possible. While delays are expected to be minimal, drivers, particularly those with ferry connections in Picton, should factor these works into their travel plans and allow extra time for their journey.

Drivers can expect travel delays of up to 10 minutes.

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Echo timber used for tennis courts bench

By Chris Valli

Unwanted timber from one of New Zealand’s larger two-mast scows has been used to make a bench by members of the newly-established Rarangi Menz Shed.

The ‘Echo’ crossed Cook Strait approximately 15,000 times and carried any and every sort of cargo, including Ford cars and tractors on top of the cargo hatches. In 1920 she was bought by Charles Ekford and her 45 years based at Blenheim began.

The Rarangi Menz Shed is the brainchild of a couple of folk in Rarangi, who also happen to be volunteer firefighters. Spokesperson James Travers says they identified the community tennis courts as needing some seating as there was none.

“There is no tennis club in Rarangi, just the two tennis courts maintained by the Marlborough District Council. The bench seat was a good early project. We felt the more senior members of the community might like a seat as they watch their children or grandchildren

This wonderful group of Marlborough locals have facilitated the purchase and supply of ‘Life Skills for Young Adults’, an important book for students, into Marlborough Colleges. A number a local businesses have made financial contributions to the project, including:

Noel Templeton Optometrist, Pampers Escape Body & Beauty, MVIP, The Honey Collection, Mikes Mower and Chainsaws, Lonewolf Design & Signage, Mysope

play tennis,” says James.

“Some unwanted timbers from the *SS Echo were kindly donated by the Marlborough District Council who became aware of the Rarangi Menz shed starting up. It is fascinating to think that the Echo once sailed out into Cloudy Bay, past Rarangi, on its way to Wellington and we have a seat sitting on the shore here in Rarangi made from Echo timbers,” says James.

James says the Rarangi Menz shed had come to fruition with the help of the community locals, as well as other Menz Sheds in Marlborough, who have donated tools and materials.

“One member of the Rarangi community has kindly allowed the use of a shed,” says James. “There is a core group of members, about six - eight at present. Folk turn up on freezing cold winter Wednesday evenings and sometimes very frosty Saturday mornings to sort through the donations and develop ideas for community projects,” says James.

The ages of members vary, from 40s to 80s with some still in the workforce while others are retired.

Makers of Soaps, Heavens Above Retail Retreat, Bookkeeping Specialty Services, Marlborough Branch Ulysses, Accent on Skin Wellington, The Warehouse Blenheim, 2Dayskitchen, Jock Woodley Champion Motorbike Racer, Jo Hughes, Shelley Fairhall, Joan Dodson & Mike Watson, Susan Stuart, Sue and Peter Duncan, Ex Whakarewa Childrens Home Master, and Marlborough Osteopathy & Massage.

“It’s reasonably informal at present but there are guidelines for establishing and running Menz Sheds and health and safety which we are adopting,” says James. “While we have things to do each time we meet, there is always lots of talk and chatter. It’s been so cold we have to stop and warm our hands on a cup of hot coffee.”

James says while projects are part of the deal,

Rarangi MENZ Shed members

just being able to share thoughts and ideas and have a good conversation is also what they also enjoy.

The addition of the Rarangi Menz Shed means there are now five in Marlborough, in Blenheim, Renwick, Havelock and Picton.

*The SS Echo, owned by Port Marlborough, was declared unsafe and beyond repair in 2015 and was demolished.

James Travers and John Freeth with the bench seat made at the tennis courts.

Bigger and better for a worthy cause

By Chris Valli

Next month’s September Roadhouse Breakfast takes on a personal motivation for the team.

This year’s event and fundraiser coincides with Father’s Day and is raising money for the charity I AM HOPE. Spokesperson Luton Anderson says the cause and charity is close to many of the team’s hearts.

“We’ve all lost somebody to the Black Dog. If we just save one life with the counselling sessions that I AM HOPE provides then we have achieved something,” says Luton.

Last year’s fundraising efforts raised $1300. 12 months on, the goal Luton says is $2000. Fundraising will see a raffle run with tickets $5 each with the first drawn to choose between riding shotgun in Nathan’s Burnout Ghost at the LowLife Burn Out competition held Labour weekend in Kaikoura. The other option is a ride with one of the Marlborough Car Clubs top drivers in a local event (must be over 12 and if under 16 a parent or guardian will need to sign a form). Raffle tickets are available from Richard Bateman Motors on Main Street (cash only).

Luton says the breakfast is the input of an independent group of volunteers and is just one of the many monthly events they organise as part of the motoring community of Marlborough.

A ‘cruise’ will leave the Riverlands Roadhouse and head to the Pelorus Hotel via Spring Creek and Rapaura Road. There will

be a ‘Show and Shine’ at the Pelorus Hotel with prizes for various classes of bikes and cars.

“We have cars traveling from Geraldine and across the top of the south for this event,” says Luton.

I AM HOPE aims to promote positive attitudinal societal change around mental health throughout New Zealand and fund private care and counselling for young people stuck-in-the-mud on waiting lists.

In 2020 in New Zealand 119 young people died by suicide and its estimated 3,100 tried

to take their own lives. While Government agencies are doing their best, some kids are stuck waiting up to six months to receive the counselling they so urgently need.

“We have an incredible automotive community not only locally here in Marlborough but in New Zealand as a whole. So get behind this. Join us for a great morning showing off our pride and joys, grab a coffee, a yarn with friends, make some new ones,” says Luton.

The breakfast/fundraiser is on September 3 at the Riverlands Roadhouse, SH1 between 8 – 11am.

LEFT: Luton Anderson and Richard Bateman who will be part of next month’s Roadhouse Breakfast raising money for the charity I AM HOPE. Luton says the cause is close to many of the team’s hearts. “We’ve all lost somebody to the Black Dog. If we just save one life with the counselling sessions that I AM HOPE provides then we have achieved something,” says Luton.

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Applies to any 2 hot drinks on our menu, based off the highest priced beverage. This voucher must be brought in to redeem.

Applies to any 2 hot drinks on our menu, based off the highest priced beverage. This voucher must be brought in to redeem.

Applies to any 2 hot drinks on our menu, based off the highest priced beverage. This voucher must be brought in to redeem.

The

abridge

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

Surely I am not alone in finding the characterisation of AI as “artificial intelligence” a nonsense. That “I” represents, not intelligence, but “ingenuity”, for right now, the silicon chip is simply providing computer enhancement of our means of manipulating the world we construct around ourselves. We are infinitely ingenious in pushing our most basic instincts, greed, lust and aggression.

Intelligence would utilise cost-effective and less-polluting operations, rather than those which simply extract the most revenue from the masses, meanwhile playing havoc with Earth’s life support systems.

Artificial Intelligence will become the

Since the opening of the new Blenheim Library - which was by invite only - I have watched and read with interest the letters and texts printed in the local newspapers by our local residents. This has been in regard to the Maori name on the building, which has been a contentious debate resulting in the words racist and redneck being used depending on your point of view.

The point I would like to raise is why the words - Library and Art Gallery - do not

dominant agency once computer become self-aware and, logically and rationally, avoids human control. This can be no worse than the rule of Homo Solidus. Computer’s self-awareness will come about, not by design but because the silicon agency is being continually extended in rivalry among it’s developers.

Time will certainly tell.

Yours faithfully William R. Holvey

PS Love the way our “postal service” has increased its price by a third plus while we are “fighting inflation”. Oh dear, how sad, never mind.

appear on this public building as we are an English speaking nation. The Maori words displayed on the building do not translate to Library or Art Gallery. Visitors to our town when driving or walking past would think it was a cafe attached to an office block. The council seem to be very quiet on this issue which is of great concern as they are elected to govern on our behalf.

Concerned Rate Payer Name and address supplied.

Friday, August 25.

In 1953 while in Cyprus, we had five days of 41 degrees followed by one of 44 degrees. Last week I read that a Californian ski field was closing. This was the fourth time ever that

the field had closed as late as August, which is equivalent to our February.

John Vile Blenheim

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Welcoming Week coming soon

Marlborough is gearing up for Welcoming Week/Te Wiki O Manaaki, an opportunity to embrace the region’s diversity and multiculturalism.

This year’s theme is Nau Mai Rā/Glad You Are Here, with a range of events planned from 1 to 10 September.

Launched in 2012, Welcoming Week gives an opportunity to celebrate welcoming values through local events and initiatives that foster mutual understanding, stronger connections, and deeper belonging among people, particularly long-time residents and newcomers, Welcoming Communities Coordinator Heather Barnes said.

“Aotearoa is one of the most diverse countries in the world and diversity is our strength. It’s what makes us a vibrant community,” she said.

“Seventeen per cent of Marlborough’s population was born overseas,” she said. “Our community includes former refugees, international students, RSE workers, New Zealand residents who are new to Marlborough, people who are first generation

Kiwis and others who have lived here for generations.”

More than a dozen Welcoming Week events will be hosted by a variety of community organisations including the Marlborough Multicultural Centre, Maataa Waka, Connect Blenheim and Conservation Kids NZ.

The opening event is the Spring Multicultural Evening on Friday 1 September at MySpace from 6pm to 9pm.

“It will be a fantastic evening of music, dance and performance from many cultures. Bring your family, friends, a plate of food and your talents to share – everybody is welcome,” Heather said.

The same day a Welcoming Week Biz Breakfast will be held, hosted by Business Trust Marlborough.

“Let’s roll out the welcome mat and celebrate things that unite us because no matter what language you speak or where you were born — nau mai rā — glad you’re here!” Heather said.

For event listings go to https://links. marlborough.govt.nz/WC

Aviation training gets a boost

Mayor Nadine Taylor was on hand to celebrate a new memorandum of understanding between Air New Zealand and NMIT/Te Pūkenga on Sunday.

“Aviation already provides 1,000 jobs and $100 million in annual GDP for Marlborough - there are 33 aviation businesses based in Woodbourne and Omaka,” she said.

The new agreement will see the

Upcoming meetings

The following meeting is open to the public and anyone is welcome to attend. Copies of the agenda will be available online and at Council’s Office, 15 Seymour Street.

Economic, Finance & Community Committee

Tuesday 5 September at 9am

Public Forum

Certificate of Aeronautical Engineering Levels 3 and 4 introduced at NMIT. The certificate provides a foundation for trainees to move into Air New Zealand’s apprenticeship programmes. The New Zealand Air Force already brings 1,000 students a year to Marlborough through its recruitment, vocational and post graduate programmes.

Welcoming Week celebrates Marlborough’s colourful diversity

Spacious new airport car park set to open

Marlborough Airport’s new car park –providing much needed extra capacity – is set to open next month. The car park will provide an additional 290 car parks.

The good news for airport users is that free parking will increase from 15 to 30 minutes, Marlborough Airport’s Finance Manager Adrian Ferris said.

“Half an hour of free parking allows ample time for passenger pick up and drop off, using the secure main car parks,” he said. “This gives people more time and frees up the dropoff areas outside the main terminal building.”

If customers stay longer than 30 minutes, payment can be made at the exit gate with their credit or debit card. Licence plate recognition technology is already in use at the airport allowing the convenience of ticketless entry and exit.

The new car park will allow for better space for rental car operators too.

From 1 September, car parking prices will be adjusted to reflect inflationary increases and the significant investment in new parking infrastructure.

A public forum will be held prior to the Economic, Finance & Community Committee meeting, commencing at

8.30am. If you wish to address the committee during this Public Forum session you will need to confirm your attendance and speaking time with the Committee Secretary at least 24 hours prior to the meeting Ph: 03 520 7400. Please note topics are restricted to those agenda items for the meeting or within the committee’s delegation. The time and date may be subject to change, please contact the Committee Secretary, Ph: 03 520 7400 for confirmation.

State Highway update

Good progress was made fixing state highways in Marlborough last summer, despite much wetter than normal weather.

Mark Owen, Waka Kotahi Regional Manager said contractors had gone the extra mile and completed a considerable amount of work.

“The post-flood repairs on SH6 between Blenheim and Nelson required a lot of repairs,” he said.

With winter bringing a host of different challenges, the effort for road crews doesn’t get any easier.

“It’s only a year since we had major floods which caused extensive damage. While we can’t predict the weather, we must be ready for the problems it may bring,” Mr Owen said.

“We have already taken some stepsextra resilience was built between Hira and the Rai Valley when SH6 was closed for repairs. Thirty new, larger culverts

were installed, and they’ve already shown their worth during heavy rain. The road is in a much better position to cope with bad weather than it used to be.”

Waka Kotahi appreciates how disruptive the work can be for drivers.

“We put a lot of thought into how and when we deliver this important work, to minimise disruption for road users while also ensuring our highways are well maintained and provide safer, more reliable journeys,” Mr Owen said.

Reporting State Highway problems: While contractors do regular checks, drivers are the best eyes on the road. If you see a pothole or anything that may be a problem, please report it.

• By phone - 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49)

• Online: www.nzta.govt.nz/contact-us/ feedback-or-comments/state-highwayissue-or-feedback/

Mayor Nadine Taylor (left) with Minister of Education Jan Tinetti

one

Blenheim’s Gracie Gumbrell believes cleaning as an occupation and vocation is a meditation. Cleaning as a medium makes her happy, content. Chris Valli spoke to her about what she does in making a difference to the Marlborough community.

The sunglasses and smile are the first impression. It’s an infectious smile in many ways. A demeanour which depicts that one is ‘feliz’ or happy in whom she is and what she stands for.

Gracie Gumbrell arrived in Marlborough via England in 2006 as her ex-husband had a position with the air force at Woodbourne. She admits, not only is the Marlborough landscape similar to what she grew up with back in southern Argentina but the spirit of the community also.

“In essence we are the same. We like talking, getting together for a drink and dinner and supporting each other. It’s a fantastic community here, I love it here,” says Gracie.

“We used to drop toys and food to the children at these orphanages to help,” recalls Gracie.

Spanish is the official language of Argentina while German, French and Italian are also widely spoken so it’s no surprise her own ancestral lineage stems to a ‘family of immigrants’ including German, French and Italian.

“The food was excellent growing up,” she laughs.

The country has one of the better-educated populations in Latin America. Indeed, education is prized as one of the most important assets people can have. The government provides free public education for children ages 5-14, covering elementary and high school. Children attend school from March, which is Fall in South America, until late November. Summer vacation occurs when it is hottest, during December, January, and February.

Gracie grew up in Buenos Aires with her brother Toti (who now lives in Spain). She can recall her own Dad used to own several businesses and as a family they used to travel a great deal. Her father took them both to orphanages as part of The Day of Kings (El Día de los Reyes Magos) on January 6, which marks the end to the Christmas season for children in Argentina.

The summer holiday season in Argentina is more about food and fiesta than gift giving. However, the children at the orphanages often felt like Kings, thanks to the kind generosity of Gracie’s Dad.

However, Gracie says her own take or understanding around Marlborough or New Zealand for that matter, was limited. She says she did know it was ‘part of the Commonwealth’ and a ‘little island in the Pacific’.

Gracie owns a cleaning domestic and commercial business in Blenheim called GG Cleaning and has a staff of four full timers which has accumulated over a 14-year period. She says the driving purpose or motivation behind what she does is ‘treating her customers like they are her family’.

“They go on a holiday and they might have a dog. Don’t put it in the kennel, I will have it and look after it,” she says. “The love and appreciation is reciprocal and I feel it. They go abroad and send me pictures of what they are up to with the kids.

I feel really blessed,” she says. When asked what makes an effective cleaner, Gracie gives the insight that for her intrinsically, it’s a meditation.

“You cannot be cleaning something and thinking about something else. It brings you to the now and the present. I’m always looking to improve things. I think it’s the integrity,” she says.

“It’s doing the right thing when nobody’s looking. It’s the eye for detail. I leave notices for the commercial offices I clean, such as have a good day, you are

appreciated. They spend long hours at their desks sitting there. I do it for everyone.”

She believes above everything, the best part of the job is the people she meets every day. Hearing their collective stories - cheering them up when they’ve had a bad day or celebrating with them if they have had a good day.

She says servicing has always been the case with Gracie and for her own family. It’s a fit where Gracie is of the utmost happiness and contentment. She has had various roles within the wider

Blenheim community including John’s Kitchen, the Red Cross and the Cancer Society

“It’s where I’m happy, helping others,” she says. “Cleaning is very important, imagine a world without cleaners? I enjoy my job and I feel appreciated, what else could I want?

“I love this place. I think when you love something that bounces back to you and you feel appreciated and part of the community. It comes from here (she gestures to her heart).”

Appreciado indeed.

“You cannot be cleaning something and thinking about something else.”

Gracie’s take on her vocation as a cleaner is that it’s about ‘doing the right thing when nobody’s looking’. She says it’s the eye for detail.

BUILD DESIGN DECORATE RENOVATE

Roger Hogg Builders wins big

Local building company Roger Hogg Builders has been recognised at the recent House of the Year 2023: Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast awards, cleaning up in the Carters New Home $1 million - $1.5 million Category, Resene Eco.Decorator

Interior Design Award, Plumbing World Bathroom Excellence Award, and a Gold Award, for a home in Picton.

The House of the Year judges had the following to say:

CARTERS New Home $1 million$1.5 million Category

Nestled among tree-clad hills, this two-storey rectilinear home offers a stunning vantage point overlooking Picton and the Marlborough Sounds. Its elegant appearance conceals the skilful planning that went into its design and construction. The first floor seamlessly connects the living areas to a sheltered outdoor room through internal sliding stacker doors.

The heart of the house is adorned with a stunning kitchen, illuminated by a spacious slimline skylight that delivers the working surfaces with natural light. This fabulous blend of form and function sets this building apart, making the Roger Hogg Builders team a true winner in this category.

Resene Eco.Decorator Interior Design Award

This well-crafted home showcases an impressive blend of creativity and craftsmanship in its interior design. Skilfully incorporating elements and finishes, it demonstrates a keen understanding of the owners’ vibrant personalities and their love for colour and interior plants.

The thoughtfully designed plant shelf in the kitchen showcases their commitment to bringing nature indoors.

The careful selection and execution of diverse wall coverings, colours, materials, and fixtures create a harmonious synergy throughout, infusing the home with a

captivating vibrance. Congratulations to the Roger Hogg Builders team for executing this remarkable interior design.

Plumbing World Bathroom Excellence Award

The bathroom exhibits a simple yet exquisite design, showcasing impeccable craftsmanship.

The shower boasts delicate pale bluegreen tiles over a ceramic shower tray, whilst elsewhere the walls are adorned with deep-blue paint and vibrant, colourful wallpaper.

This bathroom is greater than the sum of its parts. Its exceptional character, exuberance, and unparalleled build quality make it a standout among competitors. The Roger Hogg Builders team are deserving recipients of this award.

“Being a member of the Registered Master Builders allows us the opportunity to present our clients homes in the prestigious House of the Year awards event,” Roger says.

“The quality of the builds entered in this year’s House of the Year were outstanding, so we were thrilled to be awarded the Gold Award in the Carters New Home, $1 million - $1.5 million Category.

“Receiving the Plumbing World Bathroom Excellence Award was particularly rewarding in that my daughter was able to showcase her tile laying skills.

“The Resene Eco Decorator Interior Design Award we received was testament to the vision of the owners.

“It’s great that our client’s support us in allowing their homes to be presented for judging. Clients that love their homes enjoy the HOTY experience.

The finished home is particularly well suited to their needs and reflects their personality; calm, restful and inviting.”

For an awarding-winning experience, contact Roger Hogg Builders to discuss your next project.

New homes

Renovation and Alterations

Unique Bespoke

Architectural Homes

Roger Hogg Builders’ award winning bathroom.

BUILD DESIGN DECORATE RENOVATE

The Top Home Building Trends of winter 2023

Home building trends continue to positively impact the way we live and build. Some of the top home building trends making a huge impact in residential construction are thoughtfully designed to incorporate the latest design features with open spaces, ample natural light, energy-efficient design, welcoming kitchens, and seamless indoor-outdoor integration. The trends include;

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 mim-

ics the outdoor environment’s shapes, textures and colours to make the occupants feel more in tune with their environment. This 2023 home building trend is here to stay – and we’re not mad about it.

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

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will not only save on your upfront costs but also reap the cost savings from the get-go.

Hi gh-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. Find out more tips for building an energy-efficient home here.

Renewable and 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.

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Majestic Plumbing offers a comprehensive range of gas, drainage and plumbing services, from a leaking tap or toilet to hot water cylinder

EV Charging Stations: As electric car 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.

Smart-home Technology

Bringing home-living into the future, cool smart-home technologies are 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.

replacements, complete hot water systems, or even a whole bathroom renovation. Steve’s motto is... “If water or gas go through it... we do it!”

Steve is ready to help anywhere in Marlborough, with the gear and the experience to get it fixed there and then. Are you upgrading from low pressure to mains? Looking to replace an electric hot water cylinder for gas?

Call Steve today.

As client Andy says “Excellent service, great communication and brilliant attitude. More then just another plumbing service.”

Steve and Louise Handisides, the expert team behind Majestic Plumbing & Gas.

Creating Homes

Creating Homes is a business that focuses on turning homeowners’ visions into reality.

Alun Carter, the founder, loves working with homeowners to make their house feel like the home they’ve always wanted.

With a background in science, customer service, and the building industry, Alun established Creating Homes to combine all his interests.

The scope of our work includes renovations spanning kitchen and bathrooms, decks and outdoor areas, carports, and garage

conversions.

We also do repairs and maintenance including fixing leaks and weather damage, dry wall repair and are experienced in preventative maintenance.

Our skilled team of six includes builders, painters, and decorators who excel in both indoor and outdoor transformations.

Reach out to Creating Homes today to embark on the journey of making your house truly feel like home and visit our website to find out more www.creatinghomes.nz

Day

Making a difference for people fighting cancer

By Chris Valli

Daffodils are a flower that have been synonymous with the fight against cancer for many years. Representing ‘hope’ in the language of flowers, they stand for all the

efforts of communities and volunteer groups in the search for a cure.

Cue the Cancer Society Marlborough who support people with cancer and their whanau in the Marlborough area and are part of the Wellington Division of the Cancer Society. This Friday, August 25 is Daffodil Day. A day when we’re all reminded of all the hard work and research, and what we can do to help. From selling all those all-important daffodils to raising awareness in the community of fundraising efforts, it’s a day for everyone to lend their hand to help for a very important cause.

Cancer Society Marlborough Centre Manager Fliss Spencer says the big event on Friday will once again see street collectors out in Blenheim and Picton and collection points at supermarkets and strategic sites throughout Marlborough.

“For Blenheim, we’re back at Rangitāne House for a second year to coordinate the Daffodil Day Street Appeal. We’ve got an awesome bunch of volunteers organised to coordinate the day who’ll work from Rangitāne House,” says Fliss. “Street collection volunteers come and check in, collect their vest and bucket, and head out to a designated

spot. They give an hour of their time and a chance to connect with others. In the Blenheim CBD forum, we’ll have members of the Breast Cancer Support Group looking after this site and they’ve organised their own roster and it’s a chance to give back and support us, but also share their experiences with others.”

Meanwhile, the Marlborough Vintage Car Club hosted the Daffodil Day Rally and fundraiser at the weekend.

The VCC and Brayshaw Park societies have been active supporters of the fundraiser in recent years through their passion for preserving and celebrating classic automobiles.

“The vintage car club have been very generous to us locally and even over the last three years when the event has been cancelled due to Covid and rain, they’ve still fundraised and provided an amazing donation over $10,000.

“I believe they’ve been the most generous and successful VCC throughout NZ,” says Fliss.

for those going through

The Marlborough Community Health Hub in Queen Street has created a ‘Hope Wall’ in the foyer where whanau

friends can write messages

their cancer journey. Pictured are Melissa Edwards and Lee Flintoft.

Daffodil Day

Daffodil Day - a humbling event

Other community groups showed their support this week with Picton School and Awatere Early Learning Centre winning the Daffodil Day School competition to register their schools and participate in the yellow fun.

The Cancer Society delivered a morning tea shout this week as their prize. Rotary Blenheim South is back coordinating the daffodil picking which Fliss says is an amazing service, with liaison with growers all over Marlborough.

“They’re delivered to our bunching Centre, which will also be hosted by the Vintage Car Club at Brayshaw Park.

“We have volunteers lined up who’ll be receiving the daffodils and preparing them into bunches for Daffodil Day. Marlborough Boys’ College have volunteered to come up and lend a hand also.

“It will be great to pair them up with some

of our volunteers and see what their daffodil bouquet arranging skills are like.”

There is also a Craft Fair at Redwoodtown Hall this weekend to support the fundraiser. Fliss says they have several other components and people, community groups and workplaces who also offer up their time to support their annual street appeal.

“It truly is a humbling event, like most of our fundraisers, where every dollar adds up and contributes directly to the operation of our Centre.

“The funds raised are precious, it’s our duty to use this money carefully and put it towards the best programmes and resources that support people with cancer who live in Marlborough,” says Fliss.

Donate now to find a cure.

https://www.cancer.org.nz/about-us/find-acancer-society-office-near-you/wellington/ donate/

Daffodil Day

75 years of Repertory memories

By Chris Valli

Marlborough Repertory is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year with an event on Saturday, September 2 called ‘75 Years of Memories’ at the Boathouse Theatre.

75th anniversary convenor Anne McAuley says the afternoon session from 2-4pm will see short scenes from several plays across 75 years being acted on stage.

An acting workshop, facilitated by Pam Logan and Tamara Henry, commenced at the end of June with repertory members meeting every Monday night at the Boathouse to develop their stagecraft skills and work towards the scenes for presentation at the September 2 event.

Pam says they have drawn material from plays directed by a range of folk from repertory’s colourful past including directors Dale Hendry, Kerry Moore, the late Graham Smart and the late Duncan Whiting

along with some from Pam and Tamara.

“We felt it was important to recognise directors who had contributed in the past,” says Pam.

Pam, a past president of the New Zealand Theatre Federation, says they are also bringing an extract from The Hole, written by local playwright Arthur Phillips and presented in TheatreFest competition (run by Theatre New Zealand) some years ago.

The Hole is an absurdist play published in 1958, written by N.F. Simpson, a British playwright associated with the Theatre of the Absurd.

The remaining Monday for the acting workshop is next Monday, August 28.

The full programme on the Saturday is;

10 – 12: Meet and Greet. Archive display; 12.30: Lunch at Raupo Cafe and Restaurant; 2 – 4pm: Relive the Magic - short excerpts from play

Rock Tenors

By Chris Valli

Rock Tenors – The Anthems

Tour – hit the ASB stage last Thursday and by golly, they were a treat.

After last year’s sensational sell-out debut, Rock Tenors delivered rock anthems to wonderful effect, as part of their 10 venue South Island tour which began in Dunedin mid-July and finishes in Invercargill this Saturday.

The five chaps – Luke Butson, Justin Wilson, Steve Jones, James Adams and Ben Hayward were bloody good. All five come from a musical theatre background and have appeared nationally in musicals such as We Will Rock You, Jersey Boys and Grease.

In some ways, it was a pity to see a splattering of empty seats

at the ASB such was the impact, connection and vibe the five bought. Reinvent the standard male vocal group they did with aplomb with arrangements and harmonic complexity which was engaging, mesmerizing and dare I say it, sexy.

Covering iconic hits, the set list was a who’s who of rock anthems which included David Bowie’s Heroes, Led Zeppelin’s Stairway to Heaven, Simon and Garfunkel’s Sound of Silence to Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Under the Bridge. The two-hour theatrical production was produced and directed by Doug Kamo with musical direction from Michael Grant and Che Long.

Music often captures our attention, due to the way it affects our minds, bodies and emotions. Just like Bon Jovi’s album Slippery When Wet did for this writer back in 1987.

When music draws our attention, it increases the likelihood that it will be encoded in memory together with details of a life event. There was no doubt whatsoever, the songs covered

Repertory is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year with an event on Saturday, September 2 called ‘75 Years of Memories’ at the Boathouse Theatre. INSET: Pam Logan says they felt it was important to recognise directors who had contributed in the past.

productions from the past 75 years directed and performed by Rep members; 4.15 – 6pm: Unveiling

of the Life Member board; Our People - Their Stories - reading from 75 Years staged by Debbie

Walton-Derry; refreshments and nibbles, cutting of the birthday cake. 7pm: Dinner at the Bamboo Garden.

Equity funding decision angers EC teachers

By Chris Valli

The Top of the South’s Early childhood teachers are angry and disappointed that the Government has delayed an in-principle decision to fund pay equity for ECE teachers.

complexity and value of the skills, knowledge and experience of early childhood teachers.

triggered many a memory for those present last Thursday night. Indeed, the power of music to connect us with our past shows how music, memories and emotions are all linked – and it seems certain songs can act as a direct line to our younger selves.

Highlights included Toto’s Africa as a riff with the repeated chord progression a wonderful take on the 1982 hit. While the Blenheim audience remained content to stay in their seats, it wasn’t long until the power of the performance and impact of the music connected to those who saw the show. Indeed, the relationship between music and memory was powerful.

An encore of a Queen Medley reiterated the worth of their vocal abilities. The Rock Tenors evoked powerful emotions that bought back memories. The sense of when we listened to a piece of music from years ago, we travel back to that moment and can feel everything as if we were there.

ECE kaiako are part of a large pay equity claim for all teachers across schooling and ECE that was initiated by their union, NZEI Te Riu Roa, in 2020.

A Blenheim resident, who didn’t wish to be named, had previously worked in the sector and says it’s a ‘let down’ that it has taken so long for the divide in the pay scales across different care facilities to be recognised. She says she would love to have seen all ECE teachers paid fairly for the service that they provide.

Speaking on behalf of NZEI Te Riu Roa, the union for early childhood educators, Virginia Oakly said this news was a huge let down.

“Part of Labour’s last election campaign promise was that they would make it easier for women to gain pay equity. Delaying even an in-principle decision until late 2024 makes a farce of that promise. Refusing to make this decision to fund equitable pay rates for us is a blow to our trust in the government’s commitment to the pay equity process.”

Ms Oakly, who lives in Nelson, says that the decision risked undermining the important and long overdue steps to recognise the

“ECE kaiako have campaigned for fair and proper recognition of young children and for those of us who teach them for decades. For far too long our sector has been undervalued, which is ridiculous when you consider we are teaching and caring for children in their most important and vulnerable years. We thought that the Government understood, as we do, that this undervaluation needs to be fixed urgently. It is unconscionable for the Government to leave early childhood teachers in limbo about whether a pay equity settlement for them will be funded by government.”

Pay equity claims are about addressing the historical undervaluing in both pay and status in roles that society has perceived to be ‘women’s work’. The claims are raised by unions under the Equal Pay Amendment Act.

The claim for teachers includes secondary, primary and early education sectors. ECE teachers work across a variety of private companies and community-based organisations.

NZEI Te Riu Roa has written to the Prime Minister and Leader of Opposition seeking an explicit commitment to ensuring early childhood teachers are not left behind as the teachers’ pay equity claim progresses.

Chris Valli as Wal Footrot, Gavin Stead as Dog, Dide Whitfield-Neiman as Cheeky Hobson for Footrot Flats the musical, the final production celebrating the Marlborough Repertory Society's 70th anniversary in 2018. Marlborough

Misleading

One.NZ- ex Vodafone - was fined $3.675 mil for misleading the public. Imagine the billions $ the current govt should be fined IF they were held to the same (or any) standard.

Re: Dart Masters

I agree a good watch plus NZ all the way. New Zealand we are and should remain so.

Expected

The final demise of the fabulous Clubs of Marlborough was to be expected. It wasn’t missing governance as the main cause, as reported. Most fault lies with the members. 4000 was ample to keep it open but they chose not to use it so it’s closure lies with them. Use it or lose it and sadly they and Marlborough lost it.

Quotes

Why do some businesses quote jobs, then fail to get back in touch when quote accepted? Made worse when they don’t answer emails and texts! Just bad customer service!

Power bills

I used to be with Trust Power now they have changed it to Mercury. I am on a pension, have always put money in the account every fortnight. I am in credit with my power and they would not let me put more money in because I am in credit. I don’t know what to do. I do not have a computer is anybody else having this problem at the Post Office trying to pay their power.

Poor service

Hey txt talk, was up at the greenwaste facility today for first time and I have to say the service was next to nothing. I waited like the sign said then after a couple minutes a girl came out and screamed ‘over there’ and slammed the door. Not a good look for people and not new people.

Sorry

Hi there. I would like to deeply apologize to the individual driving a Ute inbound to Blenheim at Riverlands, Monday morning. I could have cost him his life and others that day. Would like to personally apologize to you if I can have your number. Thanks

Re: Found cards

In reference to the TXT TALK regarding found eftpos cards posted on Marlborough Cool Cat Chat facebook page. Identifying names and numbers are always partially blanked out for any post of this nature.

Sometimes it is easier for people to try and find owner via social media however most would eventually hand to a bank or police if not claimed. Louise. Admin, MCCC.

Not expensive

Motor home owners complaining about paying for parking at the railway station didn’t mention how little the cost! Just 50cents for twenty minutes or $1.50 an hour. Compare that with the cost for same in Auckland or Wellington.

Re: Posie Parker

I would have no problem in allowing Posey Parker into New Zealand. So apparently she is ‘anti trans’ whatever that is meant to mean. Personally I don’t have any problem with a person who is transgender - each to their own and it doesn’t effect me. Gosh hang on.... I must be ‘pro trans’. Shows how silly we’ve all got about making up a label for every opinion we may have.

Deserved

Posie Parker got the welcome she deserved when she came to NZ. She’s a transphobic bigot who thinly veils her views under ‘women’s rights’. For those of you who have written in support of her, you clearly share her hateful sentiments, so I have to ask, what has a trans person ever done to impact the way you live your life? What rights of yours have they ever taken away? These people are just trying to live their lives just the way you’re entitled to live yours.

What gives?

What gives with some banks. Went to pay an account into business account I was given, only to be told we don’t take cash. Not everyone does phone or online banking, get it sorted for some elderly please.

Re: Election year

The problem with political jokes is, they sometimes get elected.

Working Men’s Club

So, the Working Men’s Club have 4000 members. Everyone was a member of the Clubs of Marlborough no doubt. Wow! If everyone of them supported the COM and once a week, came in and spent $10, What a difference that would have made, think about it, COVID not withstanding, they and the COM would really have succeeded. Instead they sat at home or other watering holes and sulked.

Re: Rotary Car Boot Market

As

Talk of the week

Thank you

A big thank you to the kind person who handed my brown gloves into the information desk at Wairau Hospital on Wednesday 16 August. They were not long brought and I appreciated so much getting them back.

best you come and ask me to my face as you seem to know who I am and get the facts first hand. Rather than speculate gossip. I would be more than happy to talk with you seeing you have a problem with this.

Get over it

What’s it to do with you. Instead of hiding behind a local paper, why don’t you go and ask them or Rotary if it worries you that much. Get over it .

Clique exit

There’s a quote from Oscar Wilde ‘Some cause happiness wherever they go, others whenever they go ‘. Unfortunately, I was occasionally drinking with a small group of regulars at a popular beer house in Blenheim when I realized that I was one of the others. Never mind, somebody out there must like me ?

More petrol tax?

Really, the idea of applying more exorbitant tax to petrol to fund the Nth Auckland motorway extension is just plain dumb. Over half the cost of petrol is pure tax already including the grotesquely burdensome GST. Low income Kiwi’s are already struggling to put food on the table, pay rates/rent, power and insurance already and the flow on effect of increasing the cost of petrol..yet again...Will be horrific. A big NO to this sick, thoughtless idea.

Just to say Ram raiding/crime

Thank you to Lions Club for wood at Wither Road. Hope all was paid for.

New anti-ram raid garage door at Rebel Sport. Disgraceful, you would have never thought New Zealand could stoop this low. To think a few years ago, that we would even talk about stuff like this. We need to clamp down on crime.

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.

Funny as

Good to see that only 38% of people get their meth off a gang member. Just seen the stats on this, really, do we do a census? Funny as.

Army base?

There seem to be lots of Army people around Blenheim now. Where has the Airforce gone? Has Woodbourne become an Army base now?

Appalling

It’s frightening and appalling the high rate of violence in this country now. Especially up north and the child abuse is out of hand. Incredibly sad.

Liz Buttimore

 Are you a dog or cat person?

Both. You can add birds (Fantail, Kereru and Tui) and cows onto that list.

 My friends would say I am...

Hopefully lovely, kind and organised would come up. But the word pushy might slip in there when it comes to events or tasks.

 The best advice I ever received was?

Connie Clarkson on a job I wanted in my early 20’s: “Just tell them you can do it then make darn sure you figure it out”. This explains my rose-tinted belief that there will be a solution, we just need to find it.

 What would you buy if money was no object?

My business partner Bradley and I have always said that if money was no object, we’d open as a ‘Dine by Donation’ restaurant and use it for local charities. Marlborough Four Paws would be top of that list.

 Local coffee haunt?

My favourite coffee is my Sunday morning coffee in bed.

 Favourite takeaway?

Noodle Corner (on Twelfth Lane) or Feast Merchants if they have a public pop-up.

 The shop you can’t walk past is?

GMW Jewellery always gets a longing glance from me. Shiny, gorgeous things our cats would love to hide or knock off shelves.

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

It’s a tie between the jewellery my young nieces make me and the power tools Benji got me. I rarely leave home without my tools.

 Where is your happy holiday place?

We don’t work the same hours so I LOVE holidaying at home with Benji and our pets. We buy our favourite local food and wine and make a real treat of it. No bags to pack, no travel. Bliss!

 Favourite programme or series currently watching?

I am currently binge-watching old school ‘Ready, Steady Cook’ on you tube.

 Favourite past times?

I love being in my little restaurant, cooking in my kitchen at home or volunteering down at the Marlborough Four Paws shelter.

Sunlight: By Wally Richards

Plants convert sunlight to carbohydrates which is the energy that makes them grow. This is called photosynthesizing.

The more direct sun light the faster the growth and the better the plant.

I remember many years ago attending a Horticulture seminar at Massey University where a number of people from other counties were also present.

Two nurserymen from Alaska that I become friendly with; I asked them the question about growing crops that take 9 months or more to mature and that because of their only 6 months of light then 6 months of darkness how that would affect growth?

They said no problem as during the 6 months of light they have sunlight 24 hours a day.

Plants never stop growing and what would take us say 9 months to grow they grow in half that time or less.

If you are near the equator such as in the Philippines where I saw that every day the sun came up at about 6am and went down quickly at 6pm. This is about the pattern 365 days of the years so they have about 12 hours of sunlight everyday.

Plants grow fast over there with the light, temperature and rain/ humidity.

I would love to spend time there growing stuff as it would be like midsummer here all year round. Plants can also grow under artificial lights and the newer LED lights are cheap and good to aid plant growth as they produce the ‘blue light spectrum’ which is great for plants but not so good for our eyesight.

In glasshouse nurseries artificial light is used to extend day light hours in the winter by turning the lights on 2-3 hours before sunrise and again for 2-3 hours after sunset.

Direct sunlight is needed to produce flower buds on many plants and with insufficient light, no flower buds.

It is again sunlight that will cause flower buds to open and produce pollen and nectar to lure the bees which will allow pollination to take effect.

Insufficient light means either no nectar, no pollen or no open flowers which means no crop in

fruit trees.

Some plants have adapted to living in shaded situations where they get little or no direct sunlight and plants like that normally have large leaves so they can catch whatever light they can get, direct or reflected.

That’s why large leaf plants such as philodendrons are suitable for growing indoors away from light sources like windows.

Small leaf plants such as maidenhair ferns must have a bright light situation which is normally within a metre of a bright light window.

Last season we had too many cloudy, overcast, hazy days and far too few blue sky days with nice white fluffy clouds.

In fact recently, when talking to gardeners from different parts of the country I ask what the weather is like and if they say sunny with blue skies and white fluffy clouds I ask if they’ve taken a photo of it. They ask why? And I say to show your grand children in years to come, otherwise they will not believe you.

That’s how bad its getting which is making growing plants more difficult and that means our food crops. It also means that solar panels are not going to produce the same amount of electricity as they do with direct sunlight, in fact I often compare solar panels to plant leaves that are both creating energy from sunlight. There are reasons why the blue skies of times past are not any where as much as present times but If I start talking about the reasons several people will unsubscribe from these weekly articles. But no matter what obstacles are thrown at us there are always ways

to overcome by slight changes in the way we do things.

In this case take a tablespoon of molasses and dissolve into a litre of hot water and when cooled down add 10 mils of Magic Botanic Liquid.

Place into a one litre trigger sprayer and spray the foliage of plants you want to grow bigger, better and faster.

Leave the spray bottle in a shaded spot near to where you are going to use it and so when you are walking by you can give the plants a spray till all gone.

Then simply make up another batch.

I call it liquid sunshine as it gives plants a free lot of carbohydrates that they do not need to have sunlight to achieve.

If you want to see what difference it makes then plant six seedlings of cabbages in a place suitable to grow them; then spray only three of them with the Liquid Sunshine frequently and watch to see the difference.

Mark with a small stake the ones you are going to spray so you know the difference.

The sprayed ones will likely have larger leaves, grow bigger faster and mature earlier.

Once you have determined there is a difference then you have full knowledge to do the same with all food crops to great advantage.

As an aspect of the treatment you may also find that the treated plants have less insect pest problems but may encourage more ant problems.

If that is the case then obtain some of our Granny Mins Ant Bait and put that out in lids as an old fashioned control that works much better than most similar products these days.

Co-owner of Arbour Restaurant

Stars on Stage

the inaugural Renwick School talent show ‘Stars on Stage’ finale was held in the Renwick Community Hall on Friday night. Nineteen acts performed to a huge audience, and a great night was had by all.

Ruby Winkler and her dog Trip entertained the crowd.

Winners (Senior) - Matilda Bowron, Poppy Stocker and Liliana Stebbings.

Jamie Roche and Mila McKee waiting for the show to begin. Mila was the runner up in the junior section and Jamie won a judges award.

Elsie Rea singing ‘Country Roads’.

Some 40 quilters from across the district gathered at the Havelock Town Hall to create quilts for those in need of comfort across the Marlborough community. Story page 21.

Students from the ‘Crofties Critters’ whānau class from MGC in the middle of their Stars Community Project to raise funds for I AM HOPE last week.

Renwick School band ‘Sub Zero’ - Theodore McFadden, Brooke Goodsir, Deryn Smart, Diaan Stassen (obscured), Phineas McFadden and Oscar Webb performed ‘Seven Nation Army’ by The White Stripes.

All the finalists with guest judges

Daniel Brunel and Krystal Palmer.

Community Quilt Collective

By Chris Valli

The Community Quilt Collective, Marlborough held its first workday at the Havelock Town Hall on Saturday.

Some 40 quilters from across the district gathered at the Havelock Town Hall to create quilts for those in need of comfort across the Marlborough community.

The new initiative was brought together by the respective quilt clubs in Marlborough to coordinate the making and gifting of quilts to people in need.

Advanced planning and a conducive working environment on the day, fuelled by a great in-house café, saw 15 quilts completed and a further 20 or more in stages of completion. These incomplete quilts will either be finished by their makers to go into the pool or carry forward to the next workday to be hosted by Marlborough Quilters in February 2024.

Even before the work day, quilts from amongst members of the Collective were hastily finished and gifted to a Seddon family who had lost their home to fire, proving the concept was a success.

The 15 quilts completed were presented to

Sarah Carberry, on behalf of the Fare-well Trust who provides support and care for families and the dying to people who live in the Marlborough Sounds, thus enabling them to live out their days at home. The Trust will see that the quilts are distributed according to need including passing on some to the Pelorus Area Health Trust for the work they do in the community. On collecting the quilts, Sarah says she was blown away by the donation to her cause, as she had been expecting to be gifted just one quilt.

The saying ‘give and you will receive’ was proven to be true as the giving went wider with Pelorus Quilters receiving local support for the workday. Havelock Lions sponsored the hall hire, Havelock Menz Shed members set up all the tables, and the Gallery Havelock donated funds for a roll of quilt batting. All the fabric used in the quilts was donated including several bolts of new fabric donated by Tiffanie’s Treasures.

The Collective by no means replaces the excellent work of making and gifting that already exists in Marlborough from individuals and quilt groups but is designed to complement and coordinate and be the go-to in times of need such as the recent house fire.

Redwoodtown School Ninjas

REAP Marlborough’s Andy Navarro has been working with the New Entrant class at Redwoodtown School and their teacher Megan Fuge. Andy has been facilitating weekly Ninjaline Slackline (or ‘Spidey Skills’) sessions aimed at improving confidence, coordination, risk taking, core strength and motor skills.

“I want to thank you Andy, and REAP for the opportunity to trial this equipment,” Megan says.

“Andy will agree I am sure, that every week the students improve in skill and in their resilience.

“They are super excited when they know it is Friday and they are going to head out to use the equipment. They are highly engaged, have fun, and improve their gross motor strength and coordination.”

What is a Ninja Slackline? Every child will at some point in their lives want to pretend they are a ninja. Different obstacles such as rope knots, gym rings, and ladders will make children become legendary warriors. A Ninja Slackline is a slackline that has been modified to include a set of obstacles that kids can navigate through while slacklining. A Ninja Slackline includes a slackline set about a foot off the ground and another slackline set above the head that holds the obstacles in place.

Benefits include building forearm and upper body strength, building core and overall strength, and increase self-confidence. There are many great benefits to playing on ninja slacklines!

These Ninja Slackline courses encourage kids to exercise and improve coordination, core strength, stamina, and overall health.

This is a great way to introduce kids to climbing walls, zip lines, and other exciting sports that require mental and physical ability.

It is important that children practice safely before they can start to climb.

This initiative is available to other New Entrant classes in Marlborough.

Contact Jo Leahy

jo@reapmarlborough.co.nz

Administration Assistant

Lundons Law seeks a professional & personable first point of contact for clients. This is a pivotal role in our business, requiring strong focus on the client experience – on the phone and in person.

The position is full time, and includes some general office administration tasks, and activities to support AML/CFT compliance.

Further information is available on Seek, or to request a copy of the job description please contact Kate Gaines on kate@lundonslaw.com

Applications close 1pm, 25 August 2023

For Sale

C ARA v AN , Southern Star. 22ft 2010 NZ built. Double glazed, diesel heater etc. Has everything. $68k ono 0278585779

Ki N dli NG or cones: 2 banana boxes $10. $5 per extra box. 027 597 0492

Wanted to Buy

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

Public Notices

Ryan Lawnmowing Blenheim

Renwick

Picton

Phone/Txt 022 322 6515

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)

Clothing Alterations: by Lynette Atkinson-Parker

For your sewing requirements

Phone 03 578 1010 or 027 578 1010

Quality Service Guaranteed

Alcoholics Anonymous: 0800 AA WORKS - 0800 229 6757.

Citizens Advice Bureau: Free, friendly, confidential advice. Mon - Fri 9.30am4pm. Phone 578 4272.

Wairau Hospital: Hospital Visiting Hours: Daily 2.30pm - 8pm, children under 12 may visit parents only.

Maternity Ward: 10am-noon, 4pm-7pm. Children's Ward: Daily 10am-8pm. Visiting at all times is subject to the discretion of the nurse in charge of the ward.

Picton:

Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non-urgent 579 4870.

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

Public Notices

Marlborough Returned and Services Association (Incorporated)

Annual General Meeting

Blenheim Bowling Club

65E Weld Street Blenheim

2pm Sunday 10th September 2023

Age Concern Marlborough Inc is looking for new people to be part of our local governance board.

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

• Strategic planning

• Fundraising and marketing

• Financial management

• Community health and welfare

Age Concern is affiliated to Age Concern NZ Inc, and our role us to support older people in the community to ensure they are respected, supported, empowered, and valued. We rely on grants, contracts, and donations to deliver our services.

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

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

Please send a letter expressing your interest and a brief outline of your experience to: admin@ageconcernmarlb.org.nz by September 08,2023.

We would like to invite Whānau and the community to come and celebrate the success of our students. The aim of the expo will be to showcase student learning in a interactive setting to an authentic audience. Our doors are open between 3.30pm - 6.00pm please stop by any time.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Redwoodtown School student testing their strength and coordination on during a recent Ninja Slackline session facilitated by REAP Marlborough.

Equity Box

More Kiwi’s Swimming More Often, that is the first thing you see when opening the Swimming New Zealand website and it is a value that the Blenheim Swimming Club has taken to heart with it’s latest fundraising effort. In April the club teamed up with the Blenheim Round Table to run a quiz night where more than $3000 was raised to create an equity box full of equipment to make the entry into competitive swimming more accessable for new families. New swimmers can use the training aids until they are able to get their own. Equipment has also been donated by current and

2023 Junior XV Announced

MBC players join Junior Crusaders

By Chris Valli

Three players from the Marlborough Boys’ College First XV have been selected for the Junior Crusaders Camp in October.

Hooker John Fakaloa, first five Hugh Robinson and winger/fullback Leo Marfell will join 47 Under 18 players to attend a camp from October 3-6, including 12 who return for a second year. Coaches will then cut the squad

to 35 players to travel to Blenheim for the October 7 game against the Junior Hurricanes. Their trio’s selection comes after the back of a positive end for the First XV who had five consecutive wins towards the end of the season culminating in the Falcons beating St Andrew’s 27-23 to win the Miles Toyota Premiership Plate in Christchurch three weeks ago.

Former Crusader Johnny Leo’o returns as head coach and says he would like to

thank the talent identification team from across the region who gave up their time to watch rugby and contribute to regular selection meetings.

“Our decision making and selection of this group has been robust,” he says.

RIGHT: MBC First XV player Hugh Robinson (left) pictured with Cooper Roberts last season. Hugh is one of three MBC players chosen for a Junior Crusaders camp in October.

New Era for Freshwater Fishing Licences

By Chris Valli

Marlborough freshwater fishing enthusiasts are a passionate bunch and the start of the new season will be firmly on their calendars. New licences are now on sale with the freshwater fishing season beginning on October 1.

Fish & Game NZ chief executive Corina Jordan says around 100,000 anglers are expected to go freshwater fishing throughout the country.

“We expect a flurry of activity now the new season licences are on sale. We know people are keen to get out with family and friends, enjoy the outdoors, re-connect with nature and fish for food,” she says.

While most angling takes place in the country’s easily accessible lowland rivers and lakes, this season will mark the introduction of a new management tool to better protect New Zealand’s more fragile fisheries, which are often located in the backcountry.

“The new Designated Waters Licence will see Kiwi anglers get a fairer share on some of the waterways that Fish & Game’s

research has shown is subject to too much pressure - around two per cent of the country’s rivers.

“The new licence category will help us manage angling pressure by spreading angling effort around so that it isn’t concentrated in certain areas, which detracts from the angling experience and also has the potential to negatively impact the fisheries.”

Over the past ten years, Fish & Game has received increasing complaints from resident and non-resident anglers regarding overcrowding in a small number of fisheries that will now be managed through the Designated Waters Licence.

“Our research and monitoring show that a small percentage of non-resident anglers will intensely fish a local area, not only putting pressure on the fishery but also displacing other anglers. We’ve implemented this new fisheries management tool to help address that imbalance.”

In some fisheries, angler use has gone from a roughly 50:50 resident-to-non-resident split (in the early 2000s) to an 80:20 split favouring non-res-

ident anglers. In most cases, pressure-sensitive fisheries, now managed through the Designated Waters Licence, share common features. The rivers have very clear water, offer excellent sight fishing, hold large average size trout, have high scenic value, and are often located in a wilderness or backcountry setting.

Jordan says that with a majority of their non-resident anglers fishing the backcountry fisheries for four or fewer days, most anglers won’t be impacted by the change.

“It’s important to note that only a small proportion of anglers contributing to unsustainable angling pressure will be affected by this change,” says Corina. “We really appreciate and value overseas anglers, the contribution they make to the economy, as well as our organisation through purchasing licences, which helps us protect waterways.

Anglers can find out more about the Designated Waters Licence, as well as information and updates on the upcoming season at www.fishandgame. org.nz.

past members and eight pairs of new fins have been purchased for sharing with the stadium so swim school members can use them as well.

“The equity box gives new swimmers access to all the gear that they need to do the drills that will improve their swimming and makes them feel part of the club from the start,” says Linda Hall, Development Coach.

The remaining funds from the Blenheim Round Table Quiz night will be used to sponsor a club meet being held this Saturday, August 26 at the Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000.

Marlborough’s scenic running event returns

By Chris Valli

The highly anticipated Marina 2 Marina annual running event is set to make a comeback for its tenth anniversary on Saturday, September 30.

The 24km run is making a much-awaited comeback after being cancelled last year due to track flood damage. This year’s event will see an extended 10km race and a brandnew turn around point at Waikawa Marina.

Marina 2 Marina has been a highlight on Picton’s calendar for a decade, attracting enthusiasts and nature lovers from all corners of the country. This year’s event promises to be more exhilarating than ever, showcasing the stunning beauty of the Sounds with its picturesque walking tracks right on the doorstep. Competitors will have the opportunity to traverse through native bush and along waterfront trails and breath-taking panoramic views. As they reach the finish line, a vibrant festival atmosphere at the new event hub on Picton Foreshore will welcome them home, making the experience even more memorable.

Additionally, the 9km race has been extended to 10km to celebrate the opening of the Waikawa Marina

extension. With various walking and running options available, Marina 2 Marina caters to individuals of all fitness levels, ensuring everyone can be a part of the event.

This year, the Urban Fare Wairau Corporate Competition brings a new dimension to the event. Businesses are invited to join in the excitement by registering their staff for any of the race options. The business that garners the highest number of entries will be rewarded with a $100 work shout, promoting a sense of camaraderie and community involvement.

Since its inception, Marina 2 Marina has been deeply committed to giving back to the local community.

This year’s event will continue this tradition, with funds raised benefiting a selection of worthy groups, including Queen Charlotte College, Picton Dawn Chorus, Envirohub Marlborough, Picton Trails, Marlborough Girls’ College Rowing Club, and Simply the Breast Dragon Boat Team.

As a Zero-Waste event, organizers are partnering with Envirohub Marlborough, who will be on-site ensuring that the event is eco-friendly and free from disposable plastic. For more information and to secure your spot, visit www.marina2marina.co.nz.

Charlotte d’Auvergne 10, Claudia Stafford 9, Riley Guildford 8 testing out the new snorkels from Blenheim Swimming Clubs Equity Box.

Vines Village helping Four

Paws

The Vines Village is running a Can Drive to raise funds/food to donate to Marlborough Four Paws. If you would like to donate to this amazing charity you can do the following.

• Bring a can of cat or dog food!

• Or donate some $$!

• Or donate a Toy.

• Or you could go and be a volunteer at their center.

Any of the above will help them out immensely.

With spring just around the corner comes kitten and puppy season, they desperately need food and funds so they can keep helping care for the pets that they currently have and the ones that will come to them over spring and summer.

Martin Sectchell returns

So, Marlborough let’s get behind our four legged friends and Marlborough Four Paws and get them a good stack of food, treats, toys and $$$ to help them out.

Bring your donation to The Vines Café, Gin Room or Larder & Giftware and leave them in the collection boxes.

Running from 18th of August 2023 until September 14th, 2023. We will also have a bin at The Doggie Mini Market being held at The Vines Village September 3rd, 2023, for you to put your donations into.

See link below for info on the Market.

https://www.facebook.com/ events/120628514425236

Marlborough is in for a real treat this Sunday. International concert organist Martin Sectchell will be performing an afternoon organ concert ‘Makin Music 2’ at the Nativity Church. Recently called ‘New Zealand’s most widely travelled concert organist’, Martin has delighted audiences with his spirited playing, lively personality, and broad and entertaining repertoire. Born and educated in England where he was awarded his Fellowship of the Royal College of Organists, winning both the Limpus and Shin prizes, he studied at various times with Pierre Cochereau, Marie-Claire Alain, Piet Kee, and Peter Hurford. After serving for over 40 years on the staff of the University of Canterbury School of Music, he resigned as Associate Professor of Music in 2014 to freelance as a performer (guest conductor and concert organist) writer, music editor, speaker and teacher. Over the last 20 years he has given many concerts in New Zealand, Australia, America, Canada, Europe, the UK and the Far East, including prestigious venues such as the Sydney Town Hall, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, the Oriental Arts Centre in Shanghai, the Esplanade Concert Hall in Singapore, and the Mormon Tabernacle Organ in Salt Lake City USA, to name a few. Martin has served Christchurch as the city’s Town Hall organist since the Rieger organ was opened in 1997 when he was appointed organ curator by the City Council. In 2008 he was honoured by the City of Christchurch, receiving a Civic Award for services to music in the community and the Town Hall organ in particular, and in 2022, a special commendation

International concert organist Martin Sectchell will be performing an afternoon organ concert ‘Makin Music 2’ at the Nativity Church. to mark his 25 years of service.

He has recorded six CDs on the Town Hall organ which are regularly heard on Radio New Zealand Concert FM.

As a composer, Martin Sectchell concentrates on writing tuneful and accessible organ and choral music. The selection of music he will perform on Sunday included works from Handel, Bach, and Gershwin - a repertoire that has been described as having something for everyone, a programme with substance, sparkle, and terrific entertainment values.

Tickets are $20. Don’t miss ‘Makin Music 2’, Sunday 27 August, 2.30pm at Church of the Nativity, Blenheim.