Eli Dalton-Harvey ran 14 hours at the weekend from Saturday 4pm – Sunday 8am to support his Blue Brothers in the Cancer Society Marlborough’s Relay for Life.
The Stadium 2000 group fitness instructor completed 101kms of Lansdowne Park in 15 hours and 13 minutes. Eli, 21, was advocating for Blue Brothers Marlborough, who not only provides exercise classes for men living with cancer in the region but a space to connect with men facing their respective cancer narratives.
Continued on page 2.
Eli Dalton-Harvey pictured middle left with the Blue Brothers Marlborough family and friends on Saturday. Eli completed 101kms of Lansdowne Park in 15 hours and 13 minutes. Photo: Chris Valli
NO 1 for readership TRUSTEDin our region for over 22 years
Editorial : Chris Valli 021 0206 6999 chris@blenheimsun.co.nz
They are the true troupers
Continued from page 1.
“If I’m being honest there was a lot of relief that I could stop running,” he says when asked what the initial emotion was after completing his goal. “It all came into perspective when I was shaking the lad’s hands and realising that because of cancer, both them and their families have been through so much more than I could ever imagine.”
“They are the true troupers and I was just there to acknowledge their courage. When I wanted to stop running at 87kms I saw one of the lads get up and read the back of his t-shirt….giving up is not an option.”
When spoken to on Sunday morning, Eli says on reflection he started off too fast and paid for it in the second half of the run. “The response from the lads was awesome and they were there to support me the whole time with getting my food, drink and massages. I ran side by side by some of the lads and got to know them better but also spent time alone and with people from other teams.”
Eli says it all came into perspective for him when he was shaking the
hands after the run. “Realising that because of cancer, both them and their
have been through so much more than I could ever imagine,”
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Marlborough’s favourite read.
Blue Brothers Marlborough started on October 17, 2023. The brainchild of the group was the late Dave Cattermole (June 23, 2024) who laid the foundation culminating in the legacy that is now the Blue Brothers.
“When the opportunity came up I thought, yeh, I need to be involved and do it for them,” he says. Either way I was going to do the run. A lot of it was about the mental challenge, chipping away, me out there, and head down.”
One of the gents who attend the Blue Brothers group is Gary Cooke. Gary says a cancer diagnosis has made him care more about other people and not just himself.
“It makes you think when other people get sick and how they cope. I look in the mirror now and see every morning that joker I’m looking at is going to be with me until my last days to see if I’m doing alright by him. I’m waiting for him to wink back at me. We’re put on this earth for a reason.”
Another ‘trouper’ is Kelvin Watson. The 76-year-old was diagnosed with a tumour in his oesophagus in February 2024, the muscular tube that moves food from the mouth to the stomach. He says, he shouldn’t say it but he was one of the lucky ones. “If I hadn’t been picked up early it
would have been a different outcome.”
“A lot of the chaps want to know about our experiences and the journey we have been on. They are prepared to listen –we’ve all got a different story to tell.”
Eli says the support he received went through the roof and kept him motivated. “I’m feeling great that it’s all done. There is a good sense of pride being involved with the organisation.”
“It was pretty cool to do it on behalf of a group of guys that have gone through a lot more than I have been through,” he says. “I’m ready to have a good wash and get into bed.”
lad’s
families
he says. Photo: Chris Valli
Giving back - locals supporting locals
By Chris Valli
Mark Elkington and Andrea Boock know a thing or two about the holistic benefits of connection through community.
Owner operators of PAK’nSAVE Blenheim for the past 12 years, last year the store supported 93 community groups in the Marlborough region through donations, fundraisers, working bees and other initiatives.
Mark and Andrea were the owner-operators of New World Blenheim before opening the PAK’nSAVE store in Westwood Park in 2013. Andrea believes although the supermarket and brand is well-known, their point of difference is aligning with the Foodstuffs Cooperative ethos - working alongside their staff and being personable with their customers all day, every day.
“Being part of the community and building relationships is a key driver in what we do,” says Mark. “The people we know in our own back yard whether that is the Marlborough Boys’ College First XV, the ASB Theatre or their students heading to Maadi Cup rowing teams (Lake Karāpiro March 24 – 29).”
In 2024, the store gave back to the Inspire Foundation Marlborough, dedicated to supporting Marlborough’s young talent,
through recognising, rewarding and assisting them to achieve excellence in their chosen field and to develop leadership skills that will benefit the community.
“It’s normally been community groups and schools that we have supported in the past - single sponsorship was tough for us to be fair. We signed up because we saw the wonderful things happening in the community across the arts and in sporting endeavours,” says Andrea.
One of the initiatives the store has been supporting was the Relay for Life, raising funds for people affected by cancer.
PAK’nSAVE Blenheim entered a store team, with members taking part in the relay, while sponsoring an outdoor movie night to provide relay participants with entertainment.
The ethos of giving back stems from Andrea’s DNA. Her own father Bruce used to work in New World Gardens in north Dunedin after his own parents Bill and Win Boock owned the supermarket in 1980. Wife Maria and Bruce set their sights on owning a store of their own and moved to Christchurch to own New World Bishopdale in 1990. They then took the opportunity to move to become the owner operators of New World Blenheim in 2000.
“A lot of it is never being afraid to get your hands dirty and
GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY: Owner operators of PAK’NSAVE Blenheim Mark Elkington and Andrea Boock. Last year the store supported 93 community groups in Marlborough through donations, fundraisers and working bees. Photo: Chris Valli
being prepare to do the work you ask your own staff to do,” says Andrea.
Mark says, in the current economic climate it’s easy for businesses to look at the budgets and make cuts in terms of sponsorship, particularly in community groups.
“If you’re cutting funding, you are creating more of a problem, they need people to put back into the community,” he says.
When asked what local community group they have supported in recent times where ‘giving back’ took on a whole new definition, Andrea says it is
Dr Rachel Inder and the team at Manu Ora, the kaupapa Māori charity set up to offer healthcare in a more flexible, culturally-safe, and whānau-centred way.
“We soon came to realise the amount of work these people are putting in to better people’s lives. We are lucky enough to help them with their funding but there are people there who are giving serious time and effort into those other areas of the community,”
Andrea says. “If you didn’t have empathy for that sort of stuff, you would just be saying no to everyone. It’s a nice feeling to give back.”
Celebrating Our People, Our Past
An upcoming Marlborough Heritage Festival promises a four-day celebration of the people, places, and stories that have shaped our region. Events will take place across Marlborough from 15 to 18 May providing an opportunity for communities to connect with their heritage in meaningful ways, Council’s Arts, Culture and Heritage Manager Nicola Neilson says.
The festival events are organised by community groups and heritage organisations with coordination provided by Heritage Marlborough. It includes a Heritage Marlborough Children’s Scavenger Hunt in Blenheim’s CBD all weekend, from 16-18 May.
The festival includes the Blenheim Family History Group Open Day, Renwick Museum Exhibition Opening - ‘Renwick Houses 18501940’, Pakohe Kōrero with Ngakau - discover the history of Te Hoiere and the connections Ngāti Kuia has to pakohe (argillite) and Changing Landscapes Floor Talk - history behind the parks and open spaces in the region.
A full schedule of events will be published soon. Register here: www. eventfinda.co.nz/user/heritagel8x/ events
Hospice vehicle display
The 2025 annual Hospice Vehicle Display run by Classic Cars Marlborough on March 9 was another huge success. The total amount raised came to $9,092.80.
The event saw over 400 exhibitors take part in the day. Over $600 was raised by raffles alone
Sun The
Wither Hills Farm Park
reopen
Autumn’s arrival along with some rain and cooler temperatures saw the Wither Hills Farm Park reopen last Thursday.
Council’s Parks and Open Spaces Officer Kiri Whiteman says the risk had eased and therefore the decision had been made to open the park.
Council closed the park on 27 February in the interest of public safety following talks with Fire and Emergency (FENZ) due to ongoing hot and dry conditions and had been monitoring the situation daily.
Working for Nature grants open
The 2025/26 Working for Nature/Mahi mō te Taiao grant scheme opens for online applications on Tuesday, 1 April. In its sixth year of funding, $138,000 is available for projects that range from pest control to the restoration of wetland areas on public, private, or Māori-owned land in Marlborough. The scheme enables groups and individuals to safeguard and improve the environment. The maximum funding limit for a Habitat Marlborough project is $10,000; for Protecting Marlborough, it’s $15,000, and for Environmental Advocacy, it’s $2,000. Paper applications will not be accepted. All online applications should be made at: www.marlborough. govt.nz/our-community/grants-andawards/working-for-naturemahi-mote-taiao
from Wednesday, May 14 - Saturday, May 24.
Bouncing off each other’s strengths
By Chris Valli
With character names Wendy Jo, Rusty and Urleen one could be forgiven for thinking the trio sounds like a credit list from the American television western Little House on the Prairie.
However for Ainsley Bell, Carolie
Andrew and Nadia Zintl being cast as Ariel’s high school friends is a “wonderful opportunity to learn off each other and to bounce off each other’s strengths.”
Marlborough Girls’ College student Nadia’s strength she says is definitely dancing, while for Year 11 Richmond View student Carolie, her vocals are her point of difference. The trio are adamant depicting their individual and collective characters comes down to physical nuances, subtleties for greater understanding.
“We definitely have and are spending a lot of time together. We are an exclusive group because we are in so many scenes together,” says Ainsley.
Ainsley is no stranger to the Blenheim Musical Theatre family and brings indeed some wisdom and experience to the fold. Her first show was as an 11-year-old in
the Children’s Choir as part of the 1997 production of Jesus Christ Superstar. Recent credits have been in Priscilla Queen of the Desert (2023) where she played Marion, the estranged wife of drag queen Tick and in the ensemble for Les Miserables in 2022.
“I’m not telling you my age, you’ll print it,” she quipped when asked how old she was. Bless. As for depicting a 17-year-old as a Mum of three, Ainsley suggests it is challenging. Homework behind the role of Wendy Jo and how teenagers physically move or respond has been the framework to the character.
“I’ve actually got teenagers right at my fingertips,” she says, referring to the young ensemble involved with the production. “It’s not there yet (the full character) but it’s coming.”
The character description of Rusty is one who is a ‘bit scatter-brained, sweet, fun and knows everything about everything’. When asked if Carolie agreed with that she says Rusty does talk really fast.
“I think she over thinks things a lot. Sometimes what comes out of her mouth is like a big pile of spaghetti,” she says.
AUCKLAND,WELLINGTON ORCHRISTCHURCH
Wellington or ChristChurCh, to the Chatham islands
DIRECTTOCHATHAMISLANDS
Experience 8 days in one of New Zealand's most remote and unique places. The Chatham Islands are the closest most Ne w Zealanders can g e t to international travel without p acking their passport.
Experience 8 days in one of New Zealand’s most remote and unique places. The Chatham Islands are the closest most New Zealanders can get to international travel without packing their passport.
D ue to e v er increasing popularity and i n conjunction with Air Cha thams and Hotel Chathams, w e have decided to run a tour ou t to the C hatham Islands for folks from Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch during 2022 W e will be using a 50 passenger ATR aircraft, w here w e will have up to 8 fully guided day s to e x plore our most e astern is land before returning home. Pitt Island is a n option as is shing
Tour #59
Tour# 4 3 is for 8 da y s & 7 nights on Chatham XAuckland
Speaking of food, the 1980’s in America encompassed eat-entertainment spots like Chuck E.Cheese and culture shifting films such as Footloose and The Breakfast Club while fads and trends like Pac Man, shopping mall culture, Jazzercise, Cabbage Patch Kids became synonymous.
Ainsley admits one of the great learnings throughout the rehearsal process has been about “channeling the 80’s” and what was relevant then with regards to pop culture.
“Even though we have a modern twist with this production and
depiction, you still have to incorporate a nod to that era,” she says.
Vocally, they agree there are some “really cool harmonies” taking shape and without giving too much away, come to fruition for all to hear in the song ‘Somebody’s Eyes’ where the trio are finding their ‘playful element’.
“The music sells itself,” Ainsley says, when asked why punters should get along to see the show in May. “My kids know songs such as ‘Let’s Hear it for the Boy’, it’s still relevant. The quality that Blenheim puts on when we do shows is brilliant.”
Sat 4th June 2022, departs Auckland 1 3 0pm - arrive Chatham Islan ds 4:30pm Sat 11th June 2 022, departs Chatham Islands 8:30am-arrive A uckland 10.30am
Tour #63
Tour# 44 is for 8 da ys & 7 nights on Chatham X Wellington
Mo n 2 0th June 2022, departs Wellington 2 .00pm - arrive Chatham Islands 4:30pm Mo n 27th June 2 022, Chatham I slands 9 45am-arrive W ellington 11.1 5 am
Tue 4th Nov 2025, depart Christchurch 2.00pm - arrive Chat’ Islands 4.45pm Tue 11th Nov 2025, depart Chat’ Islands 9.30am - arrive Christchurch 11.00am All Inclusive Costing per person: X Christchurch or Wellington
Tour# 45 is f o r 8 day s & 7 nights on Chatham X C hristchurch Tues 12th July 2022, departs Christchurch 2.00pm - arrive C hatham Islands 4:45pm Tues 19th July 2 022, departs Chatham Islands 9:30am-arrive Christchurch 11.00am
All Inclusive Costing per person X A uc kla nd, Wellington or Christchurch
Make up your party now and take advantage of your preferred accommodation while availability lasts.
Blenheim Sun journalist Chris Valli will be writing a weekly column and a behind the scenes snapshot on Blenheim Musical Theatre’s production of Footloose which is on at the ASB Theatre
This week Chris talks to Ainsley Bell, Carolie Andrew and Nadia Zintl who are playing the parts of Wendy Jo, Rusty and Urleen
COLLECTIVE STRENGTH: Nadia Zintl, Carolie Andrew and Ainsley Bell have been cast as Urleen, Rusty and Wendy-Jo respectively in the May production of Footloose the Musical. Photo: Chris Valli.
Marlborough Colleges Old Girls’ Association alumni Marlene Cresswell and Ellen Jarvis catch up on the good old day at the Scenic Hotel Marlborough on Saturday.
MGC Old Girls’ swansong
By Chris Valli
A look back on the good old days while celebrating 66 years of continual service to Marlborough Colleges took place on Saturday. 57 alumni including partners attended the Marlborough Colleges Old Girls’ Association lunch and function at the Scenic Hotel Marlborough. 47 of those members live locally.
One of the alumni in attendance was 99-years young Ellen Jarvis who is the oldest surviving member of the College Old Girls’ Association and made the trip south from Hamilton. Ellen cut the official cake and was presented with flowers from the association. However, unfortunately with
aging and declining membership, committee member and Past President Daphne Corbett says it was “impossible to continue as they have been” and the decision was officially made to close the association.
“The decision to close now allow Old Girls’ to distribute any monies held after expenses to be passed on to Marlborough Girls’ College rather than forfeited by the 2026 deadline,” says Daphne.
2025 marks 125 years since the Marlborough High School opened on March 26, 1900, with a role of 18 pupils where one Dr Innes was the sole teacher. Classes were held in the Nativity Sunday School room. On March 8, 1901, the high school opened
on its present site at Marlborough Boys’ College in Stephenson Street.
The Old Pupils Association was formed co-educationally in 1904 with a Board of Governors electing a name change to Marlborough College in 1919.
Daphne says MCOG had some major interruptions during its history notwithstanding World War 1 in 1914 and the influenza epidemic of 1918/1919, forcing the closure of the college with meetings commencing in 1924.
With World War 2 in 1942, Marlborough College was taken over as an emergency hospital, then handed over in February 1943.
“We remained in recess during 1944 -1946, resuming in 1947
with 60 members, only to close again 1950 – 1958 with the polio epidemic. No further period of interruption has occurred since,” says Daphne.
Daphne says the Old Girls’ Association aim was to continue friendships which can and have lasted a lifetime.
“It was also an opportunity for ladies to show support through projects within the college and its pupils such as Dux or Proxime Assist with financial support on the completion of their college years enabling further educational opportunities.”
There is good news for those who wish to continue socialising with a plan of a friendship group to meet at a café once a month.
The
MDC climate action
A new draft action plan for Marlborough on climate change has been created, more than two years after a climate-focused council subcommittee was formed. The draft plan replaces one approved in 2020, and follows work by a cross-council working group of staff from the environmental policy team, assets and services, environmental science and others.
Marlborough District Council strategic planner Jamie Sigmund told the environment and planning committee on March 13 the new draft action plan looked at future climate threats and impacts, and how to become more resilient.
Airport maintenance
The short-term car park at Marlborough Airport will close in early April to empty it of vehicles and enable re-paving of the area. It is the final stage of the airport’s largest maintenance project to date. So far, re-paving work has been undertaken on the runway and other aviation surfaces.
Major works are due to start in the short-term car park, closest to the terminal, after Easter. Airport users are asked to use the long-term car park from early April until the renovated car park reopens in June, weather permitting. This $10.7 million infrastructure investment is funded by airport operations, such as landing and parking fees. With runway re-paving only happening about once every 15 years, the opportunity has also been taken to improve aviation lighting and access for emergency vehicles.
Ellen cuts the cake alongside current president Liz Anderson.
Photos: Chris Valli
We asked locals who they were walking for in the Relay for Life and what legacy did their loved ones leave behind? Sun readers have their say... with the WORD on the Street.
I walked with the Marlborough Library Novel Wanderers for our colleague Marj who had a scare recently.
Paula
I was with the Live Stronger exercise group. I walked and remembered Yvonne Sidwell who walked with us last time and was an inspiration for setting up Live Stronger.
Letters
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.
Sigrun Steinhagen
I walked for my late partner, Peter Franks. He left behind a legacy of love, DIY projects, a deep passion for organic wine growing, gold and two beautiful children who carry his spirit.
I was there in my capacity as a Cancer Society Marlborough board member, and to support my daughters who were walking in memory of their grandparents, and my beautiful Mum who is a survivor.
I just don’t understand it. Recently in the supermarket I saw Norwegian farmed salmon for sale, bullet tuna from Vietnam. Why?
After all, we have natural sea fisheries, despite being slanted by the QMS to the commercial corporates. We have salmon farming here although reading about salmon farming whether in Norway (read “The New Fish” book) or NZ, I wouldn’t want it on my plate.
We import other commodities like Australian meat, oranges from California, pork from Canada, all competing and probably undercutting our own farmers?
My understanding is basically exports are a country’s earnings and imports expenditure. The difference is trade surplus or trade deficit. Yet New Zealand almost without exception runs trade deficits. In short, we’re overspending. In 2012, there was a $69 billion trade
Dear Ed
I think the legacy of people who have passed and leave us, is the advice to live life to its full, don’t sweat the small stuff and recognise the things that are truly important. Treating others with love and respect.
deficit. Last year under National’s coalition, it was $27 billion.
Well in 2024, apparently New Zealand’s net core Crown debt reached $175 billion. Note, not millions - but billions. Would you run a business or household like that? In economic terms is NZ bankrupt?
Since 1984 and Rogernomics, NZ has obeyed free trade, which embraces buying unnecessary imports, begging foreign corporates to come and buy up and worshipping GDP. Is there a better way? Apparently there is. Read “Doughnut Economics” by UK economist Kate Raworth. “Doughnut Economics” is not just based on economic but also environmental and human social values.
Tony Orman Blenheim
There have been a number of recent letters and texts to the Sun regarding upcoming fluoridation and chlorination of Blenheim’s water supply. I would like to express that, as a Blenheim resident, I am in favour of both. Fluoride is a naturally-occurring element in waters worldwide. Seawater, for example, contains 1.3 parts per million (ppm) fluoride. When added in minute quantities to water supplies it is known to improve dental health, particularly in children. The planned level of fluoridation in Blenheim water is 0.7 to 1.0 ppm, well below The World Health Organisation recommended safe upper limit of 1.5 ppm. A large body of public health evidence suggests that the benefits to our community’s dental health outweigh any health risk.
The water supplies of Renwick, Picton, Wairau Township, Seddon and Havelock are all chlorinated. Blenheim’s water supply is disinfected by ultraviolet light but there is a chance that disease agents could enter the system downstream of this and cause illness. For example, in 2016 a contamination event in the reticulated water system of Havelock North by a waterborne disease caused more than 6000 cases of illness, 42 hospitalisations and 4 deaths. Chlorination would have prevented this. I’d rather the slight taste of chlorine in our drinking water than the risk of a similar outbreak of waterborne illness here.
Tom Powell Marlborough
More letters on page 9.
Chris McMurtrie Blenheim
Blenheim
Olliver Blenheim
Duncan Mackenzie Blenheim
Kia King Blenheim
Emma Toy Blenheim
Jo Lorraine Debby Arthur
Raine & Horne
Blenheim
My walk was for two good friends taken from us all by cancer last year – my cycling role model Gerard and my sailing mate Mark. Both were generous with their time and knowledge so fighting what took them is my way of supporting our community.
Working for Nature/Mahi mō te Taiao grants open in April
The 2025/26 Working for Nature/Mahi mō te Taiao grant scheme opens for online applications on Tuesday 1 April.
In its sixth year of funding, $138,000 is available for projects ranging from pest control to restoring wetlands on Marlborough’s public, private or Māori-owned land. Funding is awarded in three categories:
• Habitat Marlborough – for restoring native habitats, improving biodiversity and enhancing freshwater quality.
• Protecting Marlborough –for controlling animal and plant pests
• Environmental Advocacy –for initiatives that promote environmental awareness. The scheme enables groups and individuals to protect and enhance the environment.
The maximum funding cap for a Habitat Marlborough
project is $10,000; for Protecting Marlborough, it’s $15,000, and for Environmental Advocacy, it’s $2,000.
Community groups or trusts involved in multi-year projects are encouraged to apply for multi-year funding through the grant, up to the specified category maximum each year. To be eligible, the trust or group must show a proven history of successfully delivering environmentally beneficial biodiversity projects.
Further information can be found on Council’s website via the link below. Applications close at 11:59pm on Wednesday, 30 April, and all applicants will be notified of the outcome by July 2025.
Paper applications are not accepted. Online applications should be made at: www. marlborough.govt.nz/ our-community/grantsand-awards/working-fornaturemahi-mo-te-taiao
Bus fares to increase from 1 July
Fares on Marlborough’s publicly funded buses will rise this July for the first time since the service started 20 years ago.
Council’s Assets and Services Committee has approved a 20 per cent increase which will see the price for an adult one-way bus fare in Blenheim rise from $2 to $2.40 and a child fare increase from $1 to $1.20. The Picton bus one way fare will increase from $4 to $4.80 for an adult and from $2 to $2.40 for a child. This is subject to the approval of full Council on 3 April.
The new fares take effect 1 July.
Marlborough Roads System
Manager Wayne Oldfield said the increase was in response to increased operating expenses, the need to maintain the service and to meet the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) directive to the sector to increase the private share funding component which comes from ticket sales and advertising on the buses.
“The public transport system in Marlborough has seen
an increase in operational costs like many other sectors due to inflation, wage increases, fuel price rises and maintenance expenses,” he said.
“To date these have been absorbed by NZTA and Council however that is not sustainable in the long term. To maintain our current service and to meet the NZTA obligations, we need to adjust fares.”
“Our private share component is currently sitting at around five per cent and we need to increase that to 6.5 per cent by 2027. Super Gold card holders, who travel for free, make up 70 per cent of passengers.”
Mr Oldfield said the new fares still represent great value for money and the public transport service continued to offer an excellent alternative to private vehicles as well as providing a social service for users. It also supports Council’s regional climate change mitigation efforts.
The Marlborough bus service began in 2005.
Health of Marlborough estuaries revealed
A report to Council’s Environment and Planning Committee about the health of the region’s 13 estuaries has revealed several important findings.
Senior Coastal Scientist Katie Littlewood said the estuaries were assessed for various environmental indicators and understanding their condition was essential for proper management.
“Estuaries act as vital buffers between land and sea, delivering essential ecosystem services like maintaining biodiversity, providing habitat and nursery grounds for wildlife, and aiding in coastal protection against storms,” she said.
“Findings indicate that the inner estuaries of Tōtaranui/Queen Charlotte Sound are in ‘fair to good’ condition, benefiting from healthy seagrass beds and native forest catchments despite some human modifications. The outer estuaries in this region are rated ‘very good’, with minimal human impact enhancing their ecological value.”
However, Ms Littlewood noted that not all findings are positive.
“Kura te Au/Tory Channel is considered to be in ‘fair to poor’ condition, due to shoreline modifications and other environmental stressors that have significantly diminished the estuaries’ ecological health,” she said. “This reminds us of the growing human pressures impacting our estuarine ecosystems.”
International author visiting Picton Library
Australian author Isobelle Carmody is visiting Picton Library next Monday.
The successful and popular writer of science fiction, fantasy, children’s and young adult books will host “A Conversation with Isobelle Carmody” on 31 March at 12.30pm.
The relaxed and informal session is free with all ages welcome.
Carmody’s most recent novel,
Comes the Night, is set in near-future Canberra and is a thrilling standalone novel from the queen of young adult fantasy.
It follows a reluctant 16-year-old hero on an epic quest through a mysterious alternative dreamscape, filled with secrets and danger at every turn. Comes the Night is available from Marlborough District Libraries.
Many families had a great day exploring and connecting with the sea at a Seaweek event hosted by Envirohub Marlborough in Momorangi Bay.
Children used bathyscopes to see what lives in and around the rock pools of Momorangi Bay. There was even a small pop-up aquarium and a microscope to examine the microscopic life that lives underwater. Many people contributed to making the event a success, including Port Marlborough, Te Ātiawa o Te Waka-AMāui Trust, Nelson/Marlborough NZ Landcare Trust, Waikawa Dive Centre and Simcox Construction.
The Council aims to use these insights to monitor trends over time, implement necessary management measures, and ensure the sustainability of Marlborough’s precious estuarine ecosystems for future generations.
To find about more about the state of the region’s estuaries, go to: www.marlborough.govt.nz/ environment/coastal/estuaries
Seaweek success at Momorangi Bay
Estuaries, such as this, act as vital buffers between land and sea
Young adult fantasy writer Isobelle Carmody is at Picton Library this month
Oscar, Maddy, and Zara joined Council’s Senior Coastal Scientist Katie Littlewood at a Seaweek event held at Momorangi Bay, organised by Envirohub Marlborough.
one on one with the Sun
Upper Wairau Cemetery Tours
Do you know the story of a swagman, a flat-footed baker who was an arsonist? Or the burial of William Cuthbert Parsons, a 37 year old farmer and Catholic who was buried in a plot according to his religion? Sharon Evans from the Renwick Museum does and in fascinating detail. Chris Valli sat down with Sharon to learn about Renwick’s early settlers.
If Sharon Evans was a contestant on then TV1 quiz show Mastermind her specialty subject would be genealogy/whakapapa on Renwick’s early settlers.
Sharon, a committee member at Renwick Museum, researches family history on Renwick settlers who lived in what was then known as the ‘Upper Wairau’. Indeed, the town was dubbed “Renwicktown” after an early landowner, Dr Thomas Renwick.
“People make inquiries about if their family ever lived here and if they did, are they buried here and I answer those questions,” she says.
Sharon has been in her current volunteer role for four years. Before Sharon and her husband moved to Marlborough six years ago they lived in Pāuatahanui, near Wellington where she was involved with the local cemetery.
Twenty-three taphophiles (cemetery nerds) turned up at the Upper Wairau Cemetery earlier this month to tap into Sharon’s knowledge and historical lens. She spoke of the history of the cemetery and its 151 unmarked graves, and told stories of some of the early burials.
“We had more people want to come on the tour than what we could cope with,” she says.
The land for the cemetery was set aside by the Marlborough Provincial Council in 1875, and the Upper Wairau Cemetery Trust was set up to run it. The Trust is still responsible for the cemetery.
Unlike most Marlborough cemeteries, this one is not administered or funded by the Marlborough
District Council. Instead, its funds come from the sale of plots, together with the occasional generous local donation.
The Trust is headed by Jeff Hammond, with other members being Chris Kay, James Kay and Neville Guthrie. Sharon is the newest trustee and has also been appointed sexton. When the cemetery came into existence, one of the first priorities was to fence it. In common with most early New Zealand cemeteries, it was fair game for grazing by local farmers’ livestock. The Provincial Council allocated 50 pounds, but that wasn’t enough, so in 1894 the Renwick Ladies Rounder Club stepped in and raised eight pounds by holding a garden party.
“We had more people want to come on the tour than what we could cope with”
The burial of William Cuthbert Parsons, a 37 year old farmer, took place in 1875. He was the first of 709, with the latest being in the last month. William was a Catholic, and it was important to bury him in the correct part of the cemetery. Like most early cemeteries, plots in Upper Wairau were allocated according to religion. In this case, Catholics in the southern part, Presbyterians in the middle and Anglicans to the
north. As the decades went by, this division was disregarded.
The 151 unmarked graves are in a large grassy area. Sharon was able to find out who is buried there, although not their actual location. This information is in the 150 year old Burial Register, which has been kept by successive sextons (with various degrees of accuracy).
Many of those in unmarked graves have unusual life histories. One of these drowned in the Wairau River in 1891. He was a swagman who, Sharon found, was a flat-footed baker who was an arsonist.
Many of the 151 were stillborn, babies and very young children. In the manner of the day, their deaths were recorded in the Burial Register with no mention of the mother, the child’s name or whether it was a boy or girl. An example is, “Hillman, infant stillborn. Child of Harry Hillman, buried 20.7.1891”.
Sharon says, there were a number of reasons why graves have no headstones. Some would have had a temporary marker such as a wooden cross which later disappeared. Some of the deceased had no family in the area. In some cases the family moved on before placing a headstone. For some, a headstone would have been too expensive and difficult to obtain.
“For some there are always unanswered questions in family history,” she adds.
Some surely did have headstones which fell victim to a bulldozer. In the 1980s part of the cemetery became very overgrown, and the trustees agreed that the Marlbor-
Twenty-three taphophiles (cemetery nerds) turned up at the Upper Wairau Cemetery earlier this month to tap into Renwick Museum committee member Sharon Evans early settler knowl edge. Sharon spoke of the history of the cemetery and its 151 unmarked graves, and told stories of some of the early burials.
ough County Council could clean it up. The bulldozer took out undergrowth and headstones alike and the resulting pile was trucked away.
The cemetery walk was the first of three offerings by the Museum. Sharon’s recent research has led to a listing of the 151 graves that have no headstone.
Meanwhile, Renwick Museum is part of the upcoming Marlborough Heritage Festival, a four-
day celebration of the people, places, and stories that have shaped the region. The exhibition is called ‘Renwick Houses 18501940’, exploring historic homes in the area. Events will take place across Marlborough from May 15 – 18 providing an opportunity for communities to connect with their heritage in meaningful ways, Council’s Arts, Culture and Heritage Manager Nicola Neilson says.
Investment in Havelock
By Chris Valli
Port Marlborough CEO Rhys Welbourn has welcomed the announcement of a $9.9 million loan from the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) to support the dredging of the Havelock Channel and the renewal of key marina infrastructure.
The investment will support the delivery of a $19.8 million project to ensure Havelock Marina remains a fit-for-purpose marine transport hub, supporting the aquaculture industry, Sounds residents, and the wider boating community.
Havelock Marina is a central hub for New Zealand’s Greenshell mussel industry, facilitating access, processing, maintenance, and support services. Severe storms in 2021 and 2022 caused significant sediment build-up in the channel, reducing depth at low tide and restricting vessel movements. This has resulted in delays for aquaculture vessels and reduced berthage access for commercial operators and residents. The dredging project will restore navigability, improve berthage capacity, and enhance water access resilience for the aquaculture sector and the wider Marlborough Sounds community.
Rhys says the project is vital for ensuring long-term operational reliability. “Havelock is a pivotal port and marina for aquaculture in New Zealand. The channel is essential infrastructure, much like a road or rail link, and its reduced depth has been causing access constraints for vessels. This project
will ensure that Havelock continues to meet the needs of the aquaculture industry, commercial operators, and local residents who rely on marine access,” he says.
“The construction of three new jetties will further increase berthage capacity and support future industry growth. With the confirmation of the funding announcement, our project team will look to progress plans efficiently and work constructively with the local community, Havelock’s tangata whenua iwi Ngāti Kuia, and the industry” he said.
The project will also benefit the wider boating and tourism sector, as Havelock Marina is a key destination for visitors exploring the Marlborough Sounds. The marina is surrounded by cafés, restaurants, shops, and marine services, making it a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike.
Port Marlborough is required to meet half of the $20m cost of the project and will be working through the planning and regulatory processes, keeping their stakeholders informed, and ensuring that they deliver a practical and sustainable solution for the long term.
to the editor Letters
Chlorine
Dear Ed
It seems the political forces behind the poisoning of our water with chlorine and fluoride are stone deaf to the voice of the people. Tactics to stonewall and bully us into compliance suggest perhaps it is time the Ministry of Health was more aptly renamed the Ministry of Harm and Disease.
Why do they desire to poison our water? To break down our health and treat us with their latest wonder drugs. A major
source of revenue for big Pharmac and the powers that be on the gravy train with them. Our bodies are not the property of politicians or the so called Ministry of Health. It is time to end this artificial treatment of oral hygiene. Honest Health and Wellbeing is the New Way. When all living beings are healthy the people are happy, and NO toxic residues can be found.
Jill Rogers Springlands
Alzheimers Book-a-Fair
Alzheimer’s Marlborough is holding their annual Book-a- Fair on Saturday, March 29th and Sunday, March 30th, from 9.30am to 3.30pm at 8 Wither Road, Blenheim, with books, puzzles, raffles, a sausage sizzle, and firewood for sale.
Catherine Donnelly, Alzheimers Marlborough Manager says the Marlborough District Council, Troon Civil Ltd, and Blue Bins have all supported this year’s event.
“Last year we raised around $9,000 and we would love to do the same again this year,” Catherine says.
“We have heaps of books again this year. Plenty of fiction to choose from, and lots of non-fiction, including reference books
on all sorts of things like science, health and wellbeing, spirituality…..you name it, we’ve got it.
“There’s also some board games, and quite a few jigsaw puzzles.”
Alzheimers Marlborough is still accepting donations of books, games, and magazines (in good condition) right up until midday this Friday, 28th March. This is a good opportunity to clean out some of your storage space and donate to a very worthy cause. All funds raised stay in Marlborough to help meet the ever-increasing demand for services needed by people living with dementia mate wareware and their care partners in our local community.
King Salmon Government support
Recently, it was reported that King Salmon farms were being moved further out into the Sounds, for sustainability and ecology.
However, why should the public purse invest, when King Salmon not only refuses to pay Council rates, but, I’m given to understand, it has actually challenged MDC’s intent to charge, as any farmer would have to.
Also, I wonder what our Marlborough Harbour hope to gain from investing too, as I can only see a loss of ratepayer’s profits.
King Salmon only employs just a handful of staff and all its considerable profits go overseas?
Chris Davies Picton
Reply from Marlborough District Council
In response to Mr Davies:
The Council proposed levying coastal occupation charges in the Proposed Marlborough Environment Plan when it was publicly notified in 2016. NZ King Salmon Ltd appealed the proposed provisions to the Environment
Court. The company does not oppose the concept of charges but seeks a specific method for calculating them. While that method is effectively the same as that proposed by the Council, we await a decision from the court. The NZ King Salmon Ltd appeal is available here: https://www. marlborough.govt.nz/repository/ libraries/id:2ifzri1o01cxbymxkvwz/hierarchy/documents/ your-council/environmental-policy-and-plans/mep-decisions/ appeals/51-new-zealand-kingsalmon-co-limited/A_T -MEP.pdf
Preparations are well underway for this year’s Alzheimers Book-a-Fair. Alzheimers Marlborough Manager Catherine Donnelly with Chris Bryant and Colin Roper.
Pam likes a challenge
By Chris Valli
At 83-years-young experienced Blenheim Director turned actor Pam Logan concedes her current undertaking is “not easy” but she is learning heaps.
“You think you’ve got it (dialogue/ lines) when you are at home and working it through and then you get on that stage and it’s whoops, something distracts you,” she says. “I could hear that director’s inner dialogue a while ago saying…. lines?”
Pam has been cast as Marilyn in Marlborough Repertory’s upcoming play Ripcord, written by American playwright David Lindsay-Abaire. The comedic play is about two ladies Abby and Marilyn who have to share a room in a senior living facility.
However, Abby doesn’t want to share with Marilyn. A seemingly harmless bet between the two quickly escalates into a dangerous game of one-upmanship which reveals not just the tenacity of the characters but deeper truths each would rather remain hidden
In preparation for the play, Pam says she has dropped commitments such as Marlborough’s U3A – Uni-
versity of the Third Age – a local organisation which meets once a month and encourages lifelong learning for older adults, focusing on education, stimulation, and social interaction.
Hmm, lifelong learning you say?
Director Rose Platenkamp approached Pam and suggested there was a “good part in this play for you and I’d love you to do it”.
“I wasn’t sure about the play the first time I read it but I read it again and I thought hmm, yes, I do like it,” she says. “I suppose I like a challenge, my character says she likes a challenge. I’ve always been one for jumping in the deep end.”
“It’s about breathing and telling yourself you can do it.”
The last time Pam trod the boards as an actor was in Marlborough Repertory’s The Beauty Queen of Leenane in 2004, 21 years ago which was an Irish play written by Martin McDonagh, directed by the late Duncan Whiting.
Pam was awarded the King’s Service Medal in the New Year’s Honours for her involvement in the local theatre scene and around the country for over 60 years. She has been a member of the Marlborough Repertory Society since 1975, serv-
ing as president for two terms, and is now a life member.
“It’s exciting she says and just being there and involved. I can do this, I think I can. I’m
bouncing up and down on a bed and being active, it’s great,” she says. “It’s a great team and it’s fun, I love focusing on my role.”
“It’s been great to have the
boot on the other foot.”
Tickets for Ripcord are now on sale. The show opens next Wednesday, April 2 and runs through to Saturday, April 12.
Blenheim property awarded top 10 best holiday home
By Chris Valli
Grovetown’s Eliza Garden Cottage has made the Bookabach Top 10 of 2025 based on “what travellers desire most”.
2025 marks the 14th year Bookabach recognises some of the “most exceptional private holiday homes around New Zealand.” Bookabach is a New
Zealand-founded, US-owned holiday Rental Company.
Eliza’s Garden Cottage is located in a private acre of woodland.
The BBQ, pool and garden are the perfect space to relax or play, while complimentary homemade breakfast provisions and chilled wine will top off your stay, according to Bookabach.
Of the 12,000 holiday homes
on Bookabach, the top ten homes were selected based on what travellers desire most, such as exceptional guest ratings of 9.8 and above, multi-bedroom homes and premier host status with a proven track record of providing excellent guest experiences.
Eliza Garden Cottage has three bedrooms, sleeps six people and
includes a swimming pool.
“Each year, the Bookabach’s Bach of the Year aims to inspire travellers to book their next group getaway, and the 2025 collection is no different,” says Haley Purdon, Bookabach Travel Expert. “The baches on this year’s list reflect incredible guest ratings, experienced and dedicated hosts, and stunning
spaces that offer some of the most requested amenities from private pools to fire pits.”
Bookabach, New Zealand’s original holiday rental website was introduced as a new way for kiwis to travel together, pairing homeowners with families and friends looking for places to stay. They are part of Expedia Group.
PULLING THE RIPCORD: Debbie Cox and Pam Logan rehearsing a scene for the upcoming play Ripcord which opens at the Boathouse Theatre next week.
Principal meet your
Spring Creek School - Cheryl Alderlieste
As the tumuaki of Spring Creek School, I feel incredibly privileged to lead our beautiful rural kura, just five minutes from Blenheim. Our strengths-based approach ensures that every child is valued for the unique gifts they bring to our waka. Inclusiveness and belonging are at the heart of everything we do—we believe that all tamariki deserve a learning environment where they feel supported, respected, and celebrated. Kindness and aroha guide us, not only in how we treat one another but also
in how we care for ourselves and our taiao, our environment. We are committed to removing barriers to education by providing a school van for transport, small class sizes for personalized support, and lunches to nourish our students.
Adding to the warmth of our kura are our beloved school pets—Frankie and Fergie, our kunekune pigs, and Heihei the chicken—who bring joy and connection to our learning environment.
Spring Creek School is more than
just a place of learning; it’s a whānau where every child is empowered to shine. I am so proud to be part of this special community.
Springlands School - Hamish Stuart
At Springlands School, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive community where each child’s growth is nurtured in a safe and positive environment. Our core values—whanaungatanga, manaakitanga, manawanuitanga, and kaitiakitanga—guide everything we do, from the classroom to the playground, helping shape our students into compassionate, responsible, and resilient individuals.
Whanaungatanga is about building strong relationships, fostering a sense of belonging, and creating a connected community. At Springlands School, we believe that every student, teacher, and whanau (family) is a
valued member of our school.
Manaakitanga reflects our commitment to kindness, respect, and caring for others. We encourage our students to show empathy, offer support, and create a welcoming environment for everyone. Manaakitanga is about making sure that everyone feels valued, respected, and supported.
Manawanuitanga is the value of resilience and perseverance. We instill in our students the importance of staying strong in the face of challenges and never giving up. Whether in their academic pursuits or personal growth, we encourage them to keep moving forward with patience, determination, and a positive mindset.
St Mary’s School - Bridget Comer
Kia ora koutou, Ko Bridget Comer tōku ingoa, he Tumuaki o Te Kura o Hato Mere. It is a privilege to lead St Mary’s School in Blenheim. St Mary’s is more than just a school - it’s a community where faith, learning, and culture come together to create a supportive and inspiring environment for every student.
At St Mary’s, we are committed to providing an excellent faith-based education that nurtures the whole child.
Our vision is to foster caring, connected, and confident learners who walk in Christ’s light to achieve personal success. I feel incredibly proud to see our students grow not only in their academic achievements
but also in their confidence, kindness and understanding of the world around them.
I am passionate about creating a learning environment where every child feels valued and their cultural identity is celebrated.
Our focus on culturally responsive education ensures that the rich heritage and diversity of our students is reflected in our curriculum and daily life at school.
We have worked closely with iwi and whānau to develop a localised curriculum that honours our values of Whakaute (Respect), Manawanui (Perseverance), and Whakamana (Empowerment).
Partnership with our families is central to the success of our kura. I believe that
Kaitiakitanga is about taking responsibility for the world around us. We believe in teaching our students to be guardians of the environment, taking action to care for and protect our natural resources. Through sustainable practices and an appreciation for the earth, we empower our students to make a difference in the world. Together, these values create a foundation where every student feels supported, respected, and motivated to succeed, both as individuals and as active members of the Springlands School whānau.
when we work together, we create the best outcomes for our tamariki. It is an honour to lead St Mary’s and to work alongside such a dedicated team of teachers, supportive whānau and incredible ākonga. I warmly invite you to visit us and experience the warmth, faith and excellence that make St Mary’s School such a special place.
Marlborough Boys’ College - Jarrod Dunn
The vision of Marlborough Boys’ College is to inspire and empower their learning community to be the best they can be. This vision is underpinned by the RIPR values: whakanui/respect, whakauru/ involved, whakāhi/pride, and kawenga/responsibility.
Principal Jarrod Dunn says as a staff their fundamental role is to educate and challenge students academically. However, he also believes they have a collective responsibility to send “good people and young men out to the community”.
“The way that we measure that is through our values,” he says. “The values come from the community and the cultures we represent at the college and outside of the school.”
He believes the college has made positive strides in recent years, notwithstanding the systems put in place around expectations, attendance and consequences. “My role is to continue the work which has been started and with the continuity and the opportunity to go forward
not only for the school but the community.”
Jarrod says he is lucky he has a ‘”great team behind him” in the day to day running of the school. He says he certainly has a new-found respect for what the role of a principal entails with an ever growing administration and job description.
Spring CreeK SChool
St Mary’s School Blenheim
Cats in laps – not traps
The wonderful folk at Vet Marlborough in Redwood Street, including vets, nurses and animal care assistants, gave up their time volunteering on Sunday, March 16 to desex and microchip the regions feline fraternity with 65 cats done in one day. Chris Valli takes up the story of the continued plight and advocacy of Marlborough Four Paws.
Blenheim’s kitten and cat owners are not taking fur baby parenting seriously with an influx of felines not desexed or microchipped.
Three months into 2025, 225 cats/kittens have been desexed by charity group Marlborough Four Paws. That could have doubled if they had more funding – the more desexing, the less neglect and ultimately a solution to protecting the region’s native bird population as they trap areas where Tui and bellbirds habitate. They’ve also desexed 22 dogs.
Microchipping allows a cat’s owner to be identified at the vet clinic where it was registered while adding the microchip to the national register allows the cat to be identified by any vet or approved agent, such as Marlborough Four Paws or the SPCA Renwick Centre.
Identification, in addition to keeping pets and owners united, will protect pet cats from feral cat trapping measures being undertaken across the region.
Vet Marlborough Practice Manager Katharine Bowen says when it comes to desexing, the felines are given “a cocktail of drugs” which puts them to sleep to perform the microchipping and desexing surgery.
For the male cats, she says its all external removing the testicles with their scrotum left behind. Meanwhile, for the females, access is through a wee window in the side removing their uterus and ovaries. They are then given a drug to wake them up which usually takes them around 40 minutes to recover.
As for microchipping – or permanent identification – the chip is placed under the cat’s skin between the shoulder blades. The loose skin between the shoulder blades is gently pulled up, and the needle is quickly inserted. Katharine says, a local anaesthetic is then placed in the incision site followed an anti-inflammatory and pain relief injection post-surgery.
Marlborough Four Paws submitted a proposal to the Marlborough District Council in June 2023 asking for a regional management plan for the stray feline population to be included in the then 2023/24
annual plan.
Two years ago, the biggest hope for the charity lay in the possibility of an animal bylaw collaboration which would have seen Forest & Bird, Dawn Chorus, MFP and the Council working together to strengthen the Animals Bylaw with a goal to remove the impact owned cats have on the unowned population. MFP suggested they did this through simple, enforceable and measurable additions to the general requirements of a cat owner.
Marlborough Four Paws says it doesn’t matter how much they desex or microchip the message is simply not getting through. The only way to change the pattern is for the Council to introduce domesticated cats to the current animal bylaw.
“I just wish the Council could see the positive of what we do. The staff themselves and the community team are true supporters, but there is a group in there that are so negative towards everything we do that we are feeling worthless. We come away from meetings feeling helpless. We can’t simply call their bluff and stop cleaning up Marlborough’s public areas or the animals and birds suffer. So much donated time and money is pumped into curbing the rising population of dogs and cats in Marlborough and we are treated like a pain in their side. We have 120 volunteers that deserve better. The public are amazing, we feel humbled by their support if only our council leaders could see our worth,” says Michelle.
Meanwhile, the Nelson City Council’s cat management bylaw came into effect from December 19, 2024 effectively meaning all new cats over the age of four months had to be microchipped, desexed, and registered on the New Zealand Companion Animal Register.
Existing cats did not have to comply with the rules until the end of the 18-month transition period on 1 June 2026.
A cat is exempt from the desexing requirement if it is kept for breeding purposes and registered with a nationally recognised cat breeders’ body, or issued with a certificate from a registered veterinarian stating that desexing would adversely affect its health or welfare.
Vet Marlborough’s vets, nurses and animal care assistants, gave up their time volunteering on Sunday, March 16 to desex and microchip the regions feline fraternity with 65 cats done in one day.
Veterinarian Sarah Hart with a large Tomcat who can finally stop reproducing.
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Ideas for creating your perfect celebration...
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Trends for Grooms
Grooms are embracing style including accessories.
Personalised items like engraved cufflinks or a tie or pocket square with a meaningful design or pattern. For extra sentiment perhaps a watch or ring passed from a late family member. And for fun - perhaps a pair of creative eye catching shoes. A playful twist to a traditional wedding and can tell a story and meaning to a special day.
Flaxbourne A&P Show
Three generations of the Oliver family: Lapu and Dave Oliver with son Tom, and grandchildren Isha (7), Izayah (9), and Ezekiel (12).
LEFT: Richard and Katrina Cooke take in the sights.
Amelia Gilmore and son Oscar (3.5 years old) watch the dodgems.
Sam Forsyth and son Jack with their Champion Corriedale. Jack turned 5 on Tuesday 25th March - happy birthday Jack!
Paula and Garry Marshall manned the Meloyelo tent and had some e-bikes on display.
Harry Forsyth (3.5 years old) takes out second place with his sheep, Freddie.
Beau (2.5 years old) and Ava Patchett (4) tucking into chocolate-dipped Mr Whippy ice creams before they melt.
Water chlorination
Sun The txt talk with
The Water Services Act 2021 was mandated by the last Labour government and is being continued by the current government. Local councils have been mandated to carry this out, they have no choice.
Say no to water additives
Wake up people! Poisoning our water with chlorine and fluoride creates disease. Toxic policies promoted by MOH to get you hooked on their drugs. Their wealth at the expense of your health! Time to end corrupt politics and reclaim your life.
Re: Appalling
I would have dumped it on their property, all of it. You also should have shamed them by putting their address in your txt.
School lunches: more than just a meal
I don’t understand why so many people are against lunch for school children. We should do away with lunch box mentality. Where children won’t feel isolated and alone.
Having a nice hall were children can all share a meal and chat. Where they can learn to connect and have real hard conversations. Learning skill, on cleaning and cooking and serving.
Community
It was so cool to see the community come together at weekend at the Flaxbourne A&P Show. There were people everywhere, enjoying all the Show had to offer, and in perfect weather too.
Lunches
It’s sad that we find ourselves here, but these are the times we live in. Thankfully our leaders care enough to do something about it.
Re: Lunches
So sad to see dinosaurs bagging the provision of school lunches and using the “in my day” theory. It isn’t that time any more, when one income supported a family of 4 children. And the “can’t feed them, don’t breed them” brigade have just hit rock bottom.
Re: Feeding kids when parents don’t
What a disgraceful attitude you have, you can’t even spell, so don’t go running others down hey.
And some can’t, it’s not don’t. Some people as has already been pointed out, people on a lower, even middle income, after paying all the very basic necessities, are simply unable to provide lunch, sometimes not even breakfast, you are so out of touch.
Poor lighting at train station
Safety and health need to get involved in the lack of lighting when disembarking from the train at night. It’s really dangerous. Lick of paint wouldn’t go astray either bringing it up to scratch, hiding the low lifes who had vandalised the “holy hole,” which I thought was going to be covered over.
Re: Appalling
Well done, that person. We could all do with following your example.
3 Strikes - You’re Out!
Thursday evening we bought a scoop of chips & 2 pieces of Rig from our nearest Fish & Chips shop, a 14 km round trip.
Got home & both of our pieces of Rig were paper thin - approximately 90% batter fritter.
At $8-90 a piece, that’s totally unacceptable!
This is our third bad experience with their cooked fish - the other 2 occasions were Elephant fish which were that leathery (over-microwaved?) even our cats turned their noses up! No real apologies given on those 2 occasions either.
Now we are done. You have lost our custom for good - no fourth chances.
Landlines
A question: Why is it, with technology so advanced still racing along, a good old landline phone is erratic, drops out and is poor quality?Is Big Brother wanting only mobile phones so it knows where people are? Silly me! Sounds conspiracy-like! Nuh!
Re: Four year term
‘My current govt’? Really? It’s ‘our govt’, surely. Just like that last lot were ‘our govt’. A lot of the people who voted them in for a second destructive and divisive term then switched and voted the other way at the last election. And now ‘our govt’ is working to undo a lot of the damage that was done.
Bowel screening
I don’t know why we don’t just start bowel screening from age 50, for everyone. Well I do, actually. It’s about cost, isn’t it? Australia seem to manage it okay, though. But not us. Instead, now we have a bigger issue with both sides of the divide crying ‘foul’.
Dangerous road
If the Mayor is worried about the state of the road over the Grove Road Bridge she wants to have a look at the vehicles parked on Rene Street when customers attend the Kaiaka Cafe. It’s going to be worse when the Springlands vet start their business as it’s damn dangerous now.
Our water
I’m all for safe clean drinking water, but why chlorine and fluoride? There must be a way of treating our water without using these potentially harmful chemicals. More research is needed!
Re: American Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
There is no doubt that the seed pods can be a nuisance but consider also that these trees remove tonnes of particulate and gaseous pollution from the air you’re breathing, intercept and filter rainwater, sequester carbon, provide shade on hot days and several other intangible benefits. The larger the tree the more the benefits. They do this for free 24/7 while in leaf then (as currently) put on a stunning display of colour. Nature is not always ‘convenient’. Like it or not we are part of it. Unlike trees we mostly take rather than give.
Copper wire techs
Kudos to our copper wire techs. So appreciative out here when we do manage to get a fault logged.
Talk of the week
Thank you
Recently I had surgery at Wairau Hospital. I am so appreciative of the great care and thoughtfulness shown to me while I was there. Thank you so much Wairau Hospital Staff on the awesome work you do.
Appreciated
Thank you very much to the unknown lady that pushed my wheel chair for the Relay for Life - really appreciated.
Flaxbourne A&P
Another great day out at the Flaxbourne A&P Show. A good turn-out of locals, and lots to see and do. It was like stepping back in time to the days when communities came together to celebrate the simple things in life. There is not enough of that these days.
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Re: Disappointed
A group of concerned people did meet with the council. The council is under enormous pressure from the Government, who threatens councils with outrageous fines for not complying with their orders (democratic aye!) I just wish people had the confidence and guts to do their own research using a variety of sources. Most European countries for example have banned fluoride due to an imbalanced risk/benefit ratio...
the true definition of the Marlborough community came to the fore at the weekend with the Relay for Life in stunning autumnal conditions at Lansdowne Park. $154,000 was raised online for the Cancer Society Marlborough with all money staying in Marlborough. Final registrations, sponsorship and donation buckets are still to come in with a final figure in the next few days.
Photos: Chris Valli.
LIVE STRONGER LADIES – an exercise class for ladies that have had cancer and held at Well and Good every Wednesday at 6pm. From left: Rosie Cookson, Tracey Hewitt, Diane Cooper, Paula Olliver, Carolyn Thompson-Edwards, Sigrun Steinhagen, Sandra Stewart and Lyn Linklater.
Blenheim Volunteer Fire Brigade Chief Fire Officer Nigel Botham and Katja Thompson join the throng of supporters.
MBC teacher Buxton Popoali’I and his children enjoying the community spirit on Saturday afternoon.
The power of HOPE: Friends of Renwick School – far right - acknowledge the opening walk/lap for Marlborough’s cancer survivors with loved ones, whanau and friends.
Former MBC Classics teacher Peter Olliver cuts the ribbon, officially opening the 2025 Relay for Life.
D’oh! The Simpson’s from left: Kia King, Pam Vallender, Brianna Adams, Duncan MacKenzie and Lizzie Nott
Ngā rangatahi o Hawaiki Kura perform the haka as part of the opening ceremony.
Rangitane o Wairau’s Paora Mackie opens the event with a ceremonial performance on the pūtātara.
Let’s chat with…
Louisa Murray
Te Au Pūngao manager | Innovation Advocate
Are you a dog or cat person?
Dog person all the way. Cats know it, and they hold a grudge. And I like knowing where I stand
Favourite global cuisine?
Italian – carbonara, margherita pizza, and osso buco would be my death row meal. If that’s wrong, I don’t want to be right.
What would you buy if money was no object?
A private jet, purely for efficiency of course not world domination (yet).
Dream dinner party guests?
Heston Blumenthal to cook, Noam Chomsky to debate with, John Mayer to set the mood, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to keep things interesting. One way or another, we’d all leave changed—if not enlightened, then at least well-fed.
Veggies or fruit?
Veggies, hands down. Roast kūmara is elite.
The shop you can’t walk past is…?
Blenheim Electronics on Scott Street. Philip and Jaydin know their stuff, and I love a gadget I absolutely don’t need.
If you didn’t live in Marlborough, where would you be?
Rome or Madrid—both have history, culture and good weather, but churros might tip it in Madrid’s favour.
Favourite show or series right now?
Mostly I watch documentaries—last night was The Black Power Mixtape 19671975. Also, I’m probably overdue for a Gossip Girl rewatch (original, obviously).
What do you do for your own mental health?
Work on my cars, music loud, notifications silenced.
Favourite colour?
Red—because red cars go faster.
If you had to choose another career?
Private investigator, linguist, or theoretical physicist (theoretical is doing some heavy lifting here).
What truly matters to you?
Integrity, equity, and leaving things better than I found them. Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri ā muri ake nei.
Best advice you’ve ever received?
When I was a kid, my Toua (grandmother) told me there are only two rules in life: “Rule 1: Be a good person. Rule 2: Don’t be a dick.” I think she was paraphrasing Marcus Aurelius: “If it is not right, do not do it; if it is not true, do not say it.”
How would your friends describe you?
Generous, loyal, and never afraid to go down the rabbit hole.
gardening this week
Making use of garden and kitchen wastes: By Wally Richards
We have a lot of garden waste from the average size garden and all of it can be put to good use rather than tossed in the tip.
Waste comes from lawn clippings, leaves, weeds, pruning and tidying up plants.
All of these can be re-used back into your garden to benefit.
Lawn clippings likely are the biggest continual green material to dispose of.
Clippings can be mulched around existing trees and shrubs to suppress weeds, retain moisture and feed the existing plants.
Layered a few inches deep around but not close to the trunks, is a good way to dispose of lawn clippings to benefit.
Caution though - during wet times plants such as citrus that do not like wet feet, so avoid any mulching that will prevent excess water from evaporating. During dry summer time they are an advantage to retain moisture.
Even lawns that have been sprayed with chemical weed killers can be safely mulched in this manner around well established trees and shrubs. If there is any activity in the clippings still, they will help kill weeds in those areas.
Don’t put herbicide sprayed clippings into compost or around young plants, on vegetable and flower gardens.
If the grass is seeding when cut, then you can transfer grass weeds to the areas mentioned so be aware of this and don’t place where you don’t want grass weeds.
Another useful method of using some lawn clippings is to place them into a barrel or similar and fill with water. Leave for a time with an occasional stir and then you have some neat liquid plant food with a high nitrogen content.
This is a good way when there are grass seeds in the clippings, the seeds will float to the top and can be scooped off. Dilute with water at about 1:10 as this is a safe dilution ratio if spraying over plants other wise no dilution is needed if applying to soil as a side dressing.
Add some Mycorrcin or Thatch Busta to the container for an even better plant food and if there is any animal manure available this too can be added.
Some lawn clippings can go into the compost bin but not too much.
After every catcher of clippings is placed in the bin, scatter a handful of Wallys Calcium Hydroxide over it. This will quickly aid the break down and sweeten the compost.
After 3 to 5 catchers of clippings sprinkle a layer of soil over the material and water in some Mycorrcin or Thatch Busta to speed up the decomposing. For those that are not familiar with Calcium Hydroxide here is an explanation:
Calcium hydroxide is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Ca(OH). It is a colorless crystal or white powder and is produced when quicklime is mixed with water.
Calcium hydroxide is perfect for pH adjustment with a high pH of approximately 12.5-12.8.
Fast acting it reduces acidity in composting making for better compost, used as a side dressing for vegetables when the pH of growing medium is too acidic to feed plants.
Made into a slurry with water it’s ideal to whitewash your glasshouse in summer to help reduced temperature. Also use in preserving eggs.
A useful product for your gardening endeavours.
If you have a rotary lawn mower, then you have the ideal machine to shred clippings and weeds for mulching or adding to the compost bin.
Spread the material over a section of the lawn which is away from sight of your gardens and thus one which is not so important on how it looks, as spreading material over the lawn and picking it up with a rotary mower, always makes a bit of a mess.
Don’t put the material on the lawn too thick, about 2-3 inches is about right, lift up the height adjustment of the mower and run it across the material with the catcher on.
Once most of the material has been shredded, then add more material to the area and repeat till all is done. You then can lower the mower height to get more of the bits left behind.
This is a great way to obtain really good mulch and compost material.
Leaves in autumn can be treated in the same way.
You don’t have a compost bin? Well if you use the rotary mower method and don’t have a compost bin then simply obtain some black plastic rubbish bags.
Put the clippings of green material into a bag till its about one third full. Then sprinkle a handful of Wallys Calcium Hydroxide onto it, a handful of soil and water in some Thatch Busta or Mycorrcin.
Fill to 2/3 and repeat with soil etc, then fill near to the top and tie off the bag.
Punch lots of small holes in the bag, all over with a small nail or very small screw driver.
Place the full bags in a sunny spot and leave for some months. You will end up with some great material for the gardens.
For those with compost bins, besides using green waste from the garden you should also use all your kitchen scraps including egg shells. The shells place good calcium into the mix and should be crunched up to aid breakdown better.
Animal manure is important for a good balanced compost and if you don’t have a supply of kitty litter, dog droppings or chooks, then obtain the likes of chook manure from a poultry farm, stable manure or similar.
The best compost is obtained by having a good mix of material (even your vacuum cleaner bag) some soil added along with Wallys Calcium Hydroxcide and Thatch Busta or Mycorrcin watered in.
Use the Mycorrcin at 100ml per 1L and the Thatch Busta at 50 to 100ml per 1L of water.
Either of these two products aids the micro organisms to break down the green waste faster.
Turning the compost to aerate also speeds up the process and improves the end result.
If you have the type of plastic compost bin that sits on the soil, simply lift the bin off the heap, that has been sitting for a while and set up along side the heap. Then with a garden fork lift the material and drop into the bin. This process can be repeated as often as you like but once a month will be fine for many. If done every week you will have compost ready to use much sooner. When moving the material ensure that it has not dried out. If it has, then sprinkle with water to moisten.
Too dry or too wet, the composting action stops.
When doing major trimming of trees and shrubs the branches that are too big, to use a rotary mower on them, so a shredder/chipper is needed for this. Hire one, or if you have the use for a unit then buy one. Larger branches should be cut up for firewood and if you don’t have a fire place then give them to someone that does.
Another tip, if you are using any weed killer sprays, add 5ml of Thatch Busta or Mycorrcin to each litre of weed spray made up. It will break down the drying weeds much faster and also assist the weed killer to work better.
Thursday
Marlborough Camera Club
- meetings on 2nd Thursday of the month at St Mary’s Community Centre, Maxwell Rd at 7pm. Workshops are held on the 4th Thursday of the month. Everybody with an interest in photography welcome.
Cancer Society Marlborough Ladies Support Group
- Coffee and connecting. Peer support for women partners of men living with cancer. Every third Thursday of the Month
- 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm. Cancer Society Rooms, 76 A Maxwell Road. Next meeting April 24th
Marlborough Museum
- 11am-3pm. Adults $10, children free. The Museum celebrates an inspiring collection of items which tell the story of Marlborough and its people.
Picton Poets
- 4th Thursday of the month, 10.30-11.30am, Picton Library, all welcome. Phone Lyn 021 129 4342. March meeting 27th. Keep U Moving
- Gentle indoor walking exercise for seniors. 11.30am12.30pm $3.00. St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St. Ph 0273852333 or donna@stchristophers.co.nz
Older Persons Seminar
- Every 4th Thursday of each month. $6.00. March meeting 27th. Contact Donna 027 385 2333 or donna@stchristophers. co.nz Table Tennis Summer Season
- Blenheim Indoor Sports Centre run a table tennis session every Thursday, 6.30pm - 8.30pm, $6 per person to be paid at front desk.
Social Badminton Club
- 9am-11.30 Thursday mornings. Simcox Stadium, Battys Road. $6. All adults welcome. For more details phone Cathy 021 503 348.
Ulysses Retreads Group
-11am - Meet Brayshaw Park Thursdays. Ride to various destinations for lunch. Bring your laughing gear, a thermal to wear and a story to share.
Library Book Club
- 6.30pm-8pm Marlborough District Library. We meet on the last Thursday of the month. Simply bring a book to recommend to other members, and enjoy listening to other member’s (including librarians) book picks. March meeting 27th.
Picton Library Book Club
- 6.30pm-8pm - Picton Library and Service Centre. Join us in meeting new people and chatting about books. We meet on the first Thursday of each month. To register email pictonlibrary@marlborough.govt.nz. Next meeting April 2nd. Knit and Natter at the Marlborough Library from 10am. Come along and join the friendly group of social knitters upstairs in the library each Thursday morning. Bring along your knitting project and/or get inspiration from other knitters. No need to register, just turn up on the day.
Company Café
– Picton Library 10.30am Thursdays. Pop in and spend a while with us chatting, chilling and relaxing. Tea, coffee and snack provided. Everybody welcome.
Friday
Blenheim Family History Group in PICTON, 1.30-3.30pm Need help with your family history research, come to the Picton Library, meet members of the Blenheim Family History Group. Contact Helen 0210390106. Held fortnightly, next meeting Friday 28th March. Marlborough Vintage and Farm Machinery Society
- Brayshaw Heritage Park, open weekdays 10.00 am - 3.00 pm and Saturday mornings. For further details contact Gerard (Secretary) 022 039 2460.
Link Board games and Puzzles
– Fridays 1pm-4pm Nativity Lounge, Church of the Nativity, 76 Alfred Street. A time of board games and afternoon tea. No strangers here, only friends we have not met. Gold coin donation is appreciated. Transport to and from Link can be arranged if needed ph 5783909
Saturday
Free Palestine Demonstration
- Every Sat 11am. Flag waving, music. All welcome. Blenheim Railway station near roundabout. Redwoodtown Market
- 8am-12 noon, Cleghorn St. supporting Marlborough Food Bank. Variety of stalls. Something for everyone. Marlborough Quilters meeting
- every 2nd Saturday of the month at Marlborough Vintage
and Farm Machinery, Brayshaw Park. 10am - 4pm. Join us to learn quilting or bring your own projects. Sewing Machines available. Newcomers welcome. Liz 0212067382.
Blenheim Chess Club
- Meets at Table Top Café, Scott Street, every Saturday 10am – 1pm. All welcome.
Ulysses Club
- Every Saturday, Coffee at The Runway Café, Woodbourne, 10am. Depart The Runway at 10.30am. The Blenheim Rotary Club Boot Sale Market
- Every Saturday Morning from 8am till 12 Midday, held in the Blenheim Railway Station Car Park.
Marlborough Artesian Craft Market
- Cnr Market Street & High Street, 9:00am - 2:00pm. Stallholders include local artisans both casual and regular attendees as well as visitors from around the country. Entertainment area for kids.
Sunday
Marlborough Museum, on Sunday 30 March at 2pm. Special event to commemorate the arrival of the Carnatic in Jan 1875 in Picton. This was the only immigrant ship to sail direct from UK to Picton & this year marks 150 years since that arrival & the passengers who stepped ashore & made a home in Marlborough. Entry $5, members free.
Marlborough Museum
- 11am-3pm. Adults $10, children free. The Museum celebrates an inspiring collection of items which tell the story of Marlborough and its people.
Marlborough Farmers’ Market
- 9am-noon. Marlborough A&P Showgrounds. Fresh produce from your local farmers. Tasty line up of fresh and seasonal, gourmet and artisan produce and products that this region has to offer.
Picton Rail and Sail
- On the Foreshore - mini train rides and mini yacht hire to sail on our pond every Sunday 11am-3pm. Only 20 cents per ride/yacht hire!
Blenheim Bonsai Group
- Islington Gardens, Rowberry Road on the 2nd Sunday of the month 1pm-3.30pm.
Marlborough Tennis Club - 3pm to 5pm, Parker Street. Every Sunday - Social Tennis. Non Members $2. All welcome. Contact number is 027 578 6436.
Ulysses Social Ride
- Sunday rides are now by WhatsApp under Marlborough Ulysses lets ride. All rides are weather dependent.
Lego Club
- Picton Library@ 1-4pm. Marlborough Library @10am-4pm, Come along each Sunday afternoon to build a Lego kit in the Library. Each week there is an assortment of kits to choose from to build in a designated area. Everyone is welcome to have a go. This free activity is great fun for the whole family!
Marlborough Vintage Car Club
- 1:30-3:30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, Blenheim. Other times by arrangement. Ph Bill 0275784322. Donation appreciated. New Members welcome
Monday
Target Rifle Shooting winter season
- Athletic Park Range. Blenheim Club 7pm starts Monday 24 March, cost $10, contact 02102464417. Table Tennis Summer Season
- Tua Marina Table Tennis, every Monday at the Tua Marina Hall, Tua Marina 6.00pm - 8.00pm $5 per person. Contact Janice 027 422 9095
Marlborough Stamp Collectors Club
- 34 Arthur Baker Pace. Phone 021 157 3496 for more information.
Rotary Clubs in Blenheim
- Monday & Tuesday evenings at 5.30pm. Rotary is a world-wide service club for men and women – doing great things in your community. For further details phone Kevin on 0211 738 784.
Blenheim Scottish Country Dance Club
- Every Monday at 7.00pm at St Andrews Church Hall, Corner Alfred and Henry Street, Blenheim. Come and try it! You don’t need a partner. For information ring Heather 02102587325.
Blenheim Badminton Club
- Every Monday, juniors 5.30-7pm, seniors 7-9pm, St Mary’s Hall, corner Francis and Hudson Streets. Anna or Mike, email blenheimshuttlers@gmail.com.
Whitehead Park Bowling Club Redwoodtown
- Every Monday afternoon from 12.30pm to 3pm. All welcome. Contact Mike 572 4013 or John 577 5295.
Link Board games and PuzzLes – Fridays 1pm-4pm n ativity Lounge, Church of the nativity, 76 alfred street. a time of board games and afternoon tea. n o strangers here, only friends we have not met. gold coin donation is appreciated. Transport to and from Link can be arranged if needed ph 5783909
Beginners Line Dancing
- Senior Citizen Hall, 172 High Street, 2:00-3:00pm & 6.00-7.00pm.
Come along and enjoy the music, make new friends, have fun and learn to dance. You don’t need a partner. All welcome men, women and children over 12. The first lesson is free for new beginner’s then $7 per class. For information
Phone Judith 03-5787554 or 0212341095
Tuesday
Target Rifle Shooting winter season
- Athletic Park Range. Blenheim Club 7pm. Services Club 7.30pm, cost $10, contact 0276522640. Cancer Society Marlborough Blue Brothers Exercise and Comraderie
- FREE exercise and peer support. Every Tuesday, 10 am at Stadium 2000 Kinross Street. Cancer Society Marlborough Breast Cancer Support Group
- Every second Tuesday of the Month 7pm - 8pm, at the Cancer Society Rooms - 76 A Maxwell Road. Blenheim.
Peer support and connection in a safe welcoming space. Marlborough Museum
- 11am-3pm. Adults $10, children free. The Museum celebrates an inspiring collection of items which tell the story of Marlborough and its people.
Steady As You Go (SAYGO)
- Gentle Exercise/Balance Class for Seniors. 11.30am12.30pm, $3.00. St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St. Ph 0273852333 donna@stchristophers.co.nz.
Toastmasters Club
- In Blenheim meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday, 6:30pm, Community Centre, St Mary’s, 59 Maxwell Road. Friendly group encourage shy people how to give a speech, how to tell stories, how to make business presentations etc. Ideal for young people entering the workforce. Older adults are welcome to share their experiences. No charge for guests. Contact: Vivienne 021 0544003.
Marlborough Tennis Club
- Parker Street. Every Tuesday 8.30am to 12 Noon, Social Tennis. Morning Tea at 10am. Non Members $5. All Welcome. Contact number is 0275786436.
Lions Club of Havelock
- Providing community service in the Pelorus area. Meeting every 3rd Tuesday, at Havelock Hotel. Inquiries to Ian Cameron phone 574 2558. Knitters and Spinners
- Picton Library and Service Centre from 10.30. Bring your morning tea along and current project to work on. Share your ideas, skills or simply enjoy time with fellow creators. There’s no need to book a spot, simply turn up on the day. Cheeky Monkeys
- Marlborough Library. Join one of our sessions of fun and creativity for children under five years old. Session 1 - 10am to 10.45am or Session 2 - 11am to 11.45am Sessions include stories, songs and simple fun craft. No need to register, just come along and join in.
Picton Line Dancing
- 10-11.30am. Anglican Church Hall $7 per class. Beginners welcome. Phone Carol 0212125252 or Raewyn 021715484. Renwick Arms Country Club, Card Section 1pm Redwood Tavern, Cleghorn Street. Meet and play EUCHRE. Beginners are welcome to learn and play. $7 per afternoon. Ph Christine 0272077631.
Pencil Pals
- meets at Connect, corner of High Street and Beaver Road every Tuesday 1.00 to 3.00pm. Come and join Sydney and Issie to practice your drawing skills and enjoy the company of like-minded people. Sydney 0211568398; Issie 0204668008.
Wednesday
Blenheim Probus Club
– First Wednesday of the month 10am Lansdown Hub. For retired or semi retirees looking for fun, friendship and fellowship. Ph Anne 5787046, 0226353919 Indoor Bowls
– Every Wednesday 7pm at The Foundry, John Street, until mid September. Equipment and Instruction provided. 0223804730 for more information.
Target Rifle Shooting winter season
- Athletic Park Range. Riverside Club 7pm starts Wednesday 26 March, cost $10, contact 021667746. Cancer Society Marlborough Live Stronger - Women’s Exercise, peer support and wellbeing - Exercise classes for women living with cancer. Wednesdays 6pm6:45 pm - Well & Good - 1 Grove Road. Cost $5 members - $10 casual. Cancer Society Marlborough Stretch & Breathe - Gentle strength/balance class for seniors. 10-11am, $3.00. St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St, Ph 0273852333 donna@stchristophers.co.nz. Lions’ Club of Blenheim - Like to know more about the Lion’s Club? Meet on the1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month. For more details Contact Delphine Lee 029 942 5004. Picton Mahjong
- Marina Cove Club Room, 53 Waikawa Road, Picton at 1pm. Phone Adrianne 02102591639 or Kaye 0211312331 for more information.
Whitehead Park Bowling Club, Redwoodtown - 9.30am to 12noon. Mixed roll – ups, all welcome, contact Bob 577 9436. Summer timetable starts October. Blenheim Rock N Roll Club Nights
- 7.30-9.30pm: Top of the South Rock n Roll Club, club nights at the Blenheim Bowling Club, bring comfy shoes and water. Great music, have fun and exercise at the same time. Phone Erin 0272341709. Death Café - lifting the taboo: share what is on your mind and heart about death and dying in a safe and open environment. Meet every first Wednesday of the month at 7.00 - 8.15pm, at Speights Ale House (separate alcove). For all ages. More info on deathcafe.com or call Joss 035794771. Next meeting 02 April.
Picton Scottish Country dance group - 7.30pm at Picton Little Theatre. Beginners welcome. First night free. No partner needed just a pair of soft soled shoes. Phone Lynda on 0212600860 if you need further information.
Marlborough Vintage Car Club -1:30-3:30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, Blenheim. Other times by arrangement. Ph Bill 0275784322. Donation appreciated. New Members welcome
Coming Up:
Cancer Society Marlborough Support Group. Art For Wellbeing - Expressions of interest open for 2025 classes. FREE therapeutic art sessions. For all enquires or to book contact Dallace - Supportive Care Phone - 03 5794379 email -dallacel@cancersoc. org.nz
Riverside Railway, Brayshaw Park Station – Sunday 6th and 13th April. Train is being hauled by a Vintage Diesel Engine on the Beaver Line at 1.45pm along the Taylor River and the Omaka Line at 1.15 & 3.15pm. Check Details at www.riversiderailway.nz and Facebook for other information.
for
3 months - 5 years, Omaka
St Patrick's Day antics
Carrick Fergus, better known locally as Peter Thomas, presented a very well - received rendition of 'The Dublin Fusiliers' to the Waitohi Social Club last week. Unfortified by anything stronger than tea, he reduced his audience to helpless laughter (see Marlene Schroeder at right - also unfortified by anything stronger than tea). The social club meets at 10am on the third Wednesday of every month at the Waitohi (Picton) Library and all comers are warmly welcomed. Photo and caption: Glenise Dreaver
For Lease
Situations Vacant
Situations Vacant
Role Title:
Qualified Diesel Mechanic
Location: Blenheim
Contract Type: Full Time
The Opportunity
We are looking for an experienced diesel mechanic to join us at Fulton Hogan, Blenheim. This is an exciting opportunity to join our hard-working team servicing a large variety of vehicles and equipment. If you are passionate about machinery and can think outside the square, we want to hear from you.
We are offering a competitive remuneration package for the right person including medical and life insurance.
What you’ll bring to the table
• Qualified Diesel Mechanic - up to 4 years’ experience is preferable but not essential.
• Current NZ Driving Licence - Classes 1-5 - please note class 5 is desirable but not essential
• Be able to work both independently and as part of a team
• Have an unwavering commitment towards living safely
• Be a reliable individual with a strong work ethic
What’s in it for you
At Fulton Hogan we truly care about the wellbeing of our people and giving them the tools, they need to succeed. This includes:
• Guaranteed 40 hours per week and job security
• Medical Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Access to a great list of retail discounts, including extraordinary fuel discounts
• KiwiSaver employer contributions
• Further training and qualifications
• Full PPE and FH uniform
• Family scholarship programmes, learning and development programmes, long service leave
Sound like you?
If you are looking for a role to showcase your skills, build a long-lasting legacy, and want to help us build our Good Work culture, then we want to hear from you. Please forward a cover letter and CV to Veronica Christian, HR Nelson/Marlborough veronica.christian@ fultonhogan.com.
All successful candidates must under-go and pass a pre-employment medical and drug screen
Reporter
Are you passionate about your local community?
About the role:
Are you a reporter with a passion for news and a desire to tell compelling stories? The Blenheim Sun is seeking an ambitious and adaptable reporter to join our team.
This full-time position will be based in our Blenheim office, where you will write articles and capture photos for our weekly community paper The Blenheim Sun, keeping the Marlborough community connected through lively, local and engaging news and human interest stories every week.
You should have reporting experience or a journalism qualification, along with a strong interest in news and storytelling. You should be enthusiastic about breaking news, covering community events, and able to work efficiently and calmly under pressure to deliver timely stories.
A valid driver’s license is required for this role.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
• Journalism skills
• The ability to build connections within the community and engage with a diverse range of individuals
• A genuine passion for sharing the stories of the community
• A commitment to fostering a positive, safe, and inclusive workplace
• Be driven to deliver high-quality work
We offer:
• A permanent position with The Blenheim Sun, Marlborough’s favourite newspaper
• A great opportunity to grow your journalism skills and serve your community
• Supportive on-the-job mentoring
these roles would be great but full training for the right person will be given and you must be over 20 years of age to obtain a Duty Managers License. Please email a CV to John@alehouseblenheim.co.nz
• Flexible hours within a 40 hour week - some weekend work from time to time
• Access to Southern Cross medical insurance
About The Blenheim Sun:
We have been publishing in Marlborough for 22 years and have been the region’s favourite community newspaper for most of that time with a broad and loyal readership.
Recently purchased by family owned Allied Press we are now part of a large group of community newspapers covering the South Island.
As part of Allied Press we welcome your ideas and contributions, as they will help us to continue to expand our services and improve our business for our current and future readers.
Join us and be part of an award winning, supportive team that takes pride in delivering quality products for over 160 years.
How to Apply:
If you believe this role is a good fit for you, please apply via SEEK. Applications will be accepted until 15 April 2025. We will be in touch if you are shortlisted for this opportunity.
For more information see our website at alliedpress.co.nz/employment for a full position description, or contact Simon Byrne for a confidential discussion (ph. 021 706 936 em. simon@blenheimsun.co.nz)
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 closed. Public Holidays - phone us to be advised Community Care Pharmacy: Within the Blenheim Warehouse, open 7 days 9am6pm. Closed on Public Holidays. Lifeline Marlborough: 0800 543354, 24hr helpline.
Women’s Refuge and Sexual Violence Support Centre Marlborough: Crisis line number phone 0800 refuge or 03 5779939.
Victim Support: 0800 VICTIM (0800 842 846)
Alcoholics Anonymous: 0800 AA WORKS - 0800 229 6757.
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. Emergency Dentist: Contact Wairau Hospital 5209999.
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
Sun The Sun The
Death Notices
2025
SPERRY, Doreen Vivienne (née Barry): February 23, 2025
TAYLOR, Hiram George (Spud): March 16, 2025
BOYCE, Brian Murray (Joe): March 18, 2025
PATERSON, Nevil James: March 23, 2025,
Death notices
DELANY, Michael John (Mike):
It is with great sadness that we announce that Mike passed away at his home in Blenheim on March 17th, 2025. Loved husband of Raewyn (Rae), loved father and father-in-law of Greg and Trina, Lianne and Damien. Loved grandfather of Zia and Ryan. Along with some of his life's achievements, Mike was a brilliant fullback, playing many games for Nelson from 1958, he had first class appearances against the Lions, Australia and France, then retired from playing in 1966. “He will be very sadly missed.” Messages to 37 Karina Crescent Redwoodtown Blenheim or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz In accordance with Mike's wishes, a private service will be held.
BOYCE, Brian Murray “Joe”: Passed away suddenly at home on 18 March 2025. Aged 84 years. Dearly loved husband of Elaine, father and father-in-law of Liz and Tane, Geoffrey and Marie. Loved Grandad of Steven, Stacey and Luke, Jarrod and Kass, Jacob and Melissa, Leah and Luke. Great Grandfather of Amity. Dearly loved brother and brother-in-law to Val and the late Noel, Peter and Lorraine, Rosemary and Graham. Messages may be sent to The Boyce Family c/- PO Box 110, Blenheim 7240. A private service has been held.
CHURCH, Annette Audrey:
On March 17, 2025, Annie passed away peacefully at Hospice Marlborough, in her 78th year, surrounded by family. Dearly loved wife of Denis for 57 years, mother and mother-in-law of Richard and Andrea, and Mark and granny to James and Rose. Loved sister of Fiona and Lesley, daughter of the late Jim and Audrey Findlay, loved aunty to her nieces and nephews. Messages to the Church family c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Special thanks to all the staff at Wairau Hospital and Hospice Marlborough for their exceptional care of Annie. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Marlborough Hospice Trust via their website would be appreciated. A private family service has been held.
PATERSON, Nevil James: Passed away peacefully at Wairau Hospital, on Sunday 23rd March 2025, aged 85 years. Beloved husband of Rosemary, adored father and father-in-law of Jane and John, Susan and Stephen, and special mention of Hannah and Bryce. Cherished brother to the late Pam and Zoe. Greatly treasured Grandad by all his grandchildren and great-grandson. He will forever be loved and missed by his family and friends A celebration of Nevil’s life will be held in the Sowman’s Mayfield Chapel, Cnr of Hutcheson and Parker Streets, Blenheim on Thursday 27th at 11am, followed by a private cremation.
T:
E:
TAYLOR, Hiram George (Spud):
Passed away peacefully on Sunday March 16, 2025, at Springlands Lifestyle Village, Blenheim. Aged 85 years. Loved husband of Trish and the late Carol. Loved father of Hiram, Stephen and Rachel, stepfather of Jason and Rachel. Grandfather and great-grandfather of Katie and Phil, Tash and Ryan, Harriet, Florence, Frank, Maggie, Charlie, Ben, Abby, and Laura, Jack and Levi. Father-in-law to Virginia, Simon, and Kate. Special thanks to Jen, Kev, Willie and Lee. Messages may be sent to the Taylor Family, 1 Shearwater Drive, Kaikoura 7300. In lieu of flowers a donation to Kaikoura SPCA (https://www.spca.nz/donate) or to Avodah (https://www.avodah.nz/donate) would be appreciated. A service for Spud was held at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Kaikoura on Thursday March 20, followed by interment at Kaikoura Cemetery.
T:
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz W: www.sowmans.co.nz
SCOTT, Dot: 24th March 2024
Dot, one year on, the memory of you gives me inspiration and encouragement every day and takes my thoughts to places much further away and gives me great joy and reassures my world.
Your loving soulmate, Walter
MANSELL, Marion Helen:
Passed away peacefully on Monday 17th March 2025 at Ashwood Park, aged 89. Daughter of Cathinka and Joseph Mansell. Loved sister of Dianna Dumbell, Auntie of Bryan and Neil, Treasured God Mother of Anne Grbin and Lifelong friend of Paula O’Regan. Thank you to Ashwood staff for their amazing care. A private cremation has been held
GARAGE SALE
WOODFIELD, Geoffrey Keith: On March 6, 2025, Geoff passed away peacefully at the Redwood Retirement Village in his ninety third year surrounded by family. A memorial service to celebrate Geoff’s life will be held at Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street on Friday 28 March at 1.30 pm. For the full notice, please refer to the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
and overseas artists. Blue Note, Prestige, Riverside, ECM, Verve, Impulse, CTI, Milestone etc. Top prices paid for good titles. Please phone Dave 021 222 6144, Pennylane Records, Chch. 7 days.
Alzheimers Foundation Marlborough would like to thank the following businesses, organisations, and individuals for their generous support of this year’s Alzheimers Golf Tournament.
As a fundraiser the tournament was highly successful, raising in the region of $13,250, all of which will remain in Marlborough to help meet the ever-increasing demand for services needed by people living with dementia mate wareware and their care partners in our local community.
Ashwood Park Retirement Village, Clarke & Haack Construction, Crafar and Crouch, Foreshore Construction Marlborough Ltd, Gilbert Haymes, Jane Ingram, Marlborough Plumbing & Heating, Wadsco Trucks.
Prize Donors
Agrivit, Auto Electric City, Astrolabe Wines, Blenheim Flooring Xtra, Chantilly Café, Flooring Extra, Fresh Choice Renwick, GM Engineering, Harcourts Real Estate,
in term 4, 2024. A lot of teams were mixed with family and friends just wanting to have fun.
Marlborough Netball 2025
By Chris Valli
It’s a game which has captured the imagination of many participants and officials throughout the region and the impending 2025 Marlborough Netball season which is only weeks away, is looking healthy at the grassroots level in particular.
Marlborough Netball Centre Manager Tina Little says local clubs had a huge turnout of player’s trialling in the Year 9 and 10 space which was very positive.
The Marlborough Netball Centre is the lead deliverer of netball for all community members across the region, providing training for coaches and umpires and while providing a vehicle for those that simply love to play the game with their mates at Lansdowne Park or Stadium 2000.
At the time of writing, Tina says registrations were still open, so they were unsure of official team numbers. However, Tina says it was sounding similar to last year with hopefully a few more teams. The Wairau Netball Club, who was first established in 2011, is entering two teams this year instead of one.
The key dates on the Marlborough Netball calendar are with the Premiers starting on April 29 and
Saturday Netball, May 3, 2025. The finals day for seniors is August 30.
Representative honours will see the Under 16 and Under 18 teams represent the region at tournaments in Christchurch, Wellington and Dunedin, showcasing individual and collective talents across the country’s talent pool.
The U16 representative trials are to be held on March 31 from 4-6pm and April 3, 4-6pm (Year 10 and above players only). Meanwhile, the U18 representative trials will see players selected from club trials with one trial date still to be confirmed.
Fundraising this year comes from Churchill Private Hospital, Lion Foundation, Bobby Foundation, Pelorus Trust and Redwood Trust.
Netball Competition
Netball Competition is held at Lansdowne Park Netball Courts and games run from 9:30am – 4:30pm.
Marlborough Netball caters for a variety of grades from Senior 1-7, Social, Years 7/8 and Years 5/6.
Future Ferns
Future FERNS is Netball New Zealand’s official junior Netball programme for Year 1 - 8 children. The programme is all about encouraging Marlborough’s kids to aim high while increasing their skills and having fun with their friends with modified Netball activities and games.
Walking Netball
Meanwhile, Walking Netball which started last year continues to grow and is held every Tuesday, 9.30am at Stadium 2000. Walking netball is a modified version of netball and is a low impact sport but with the enjoyment of social fun.
Games are four quarters, 10 minutes each with no running or jumping. A player must have at least part of one foot in contact with the court at all times. Participants must be over 18 years of age with all other standard netball rules apply.
Sponsors
The main sponsors for the 2025 Marlborough Netball season are MTF Finance – Friday night Future FERNS, Winder & Co – Saturday Netball and Callahan & Martella Electrical – Premier.
