WednesdaySun The
Blenheim Marlborough
April 1, 2020
Sun Weather
Today 8-21
Thursday 9-21
Friday 7-19
for Today Saturday 7-20 Outlook Morning low cloud.
From school to home
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By Aimee O’Hagan
struggling, others are thriving and have managed to find multiple activities, techniques, and home-learning schemes to keep their kids occupied. While hubby Nick spends his days working in essential services as a beekeeper, Blenheim local Alison Dight works from home and homeschools their children, James (10) and Ollie (5) – alongside toddler Kerra. Continued on page 2.
With students out of school throughout the Government-imposed four week isolation period, parents are having to implement homeschooling strategies in order to ensure their children continue to learn and keep up their studies. For many, this has been a first; although some are
Local mum, Alison Dight, homeschooling her sons Ollie (left) and James. Photo supplied.
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The Sun
Wednesday April 1, 2020
How to reach us PUBLISHERS
Les Whiteside
les@blenheimsun.co.nz
Local mum full of home-learning ideas Continued from page 1. According to Alison, the family were quite excited about homeschooling at the beginning of the isolation period. “[However,] I think as the days have gone on that novelty is wearing off,” she says. “We are finding new routines and trying to keep things in the same flow each day so that the kids get used to what we are doing.” She’s been very creative in coming up with ideas for home-learning – drawing inspiration from all sorts of everyday situations.
“Remember that there are so many opportunities for learning in our everyday lives,” Alison says. “While baking pikelets for lunch I got the kids to write or draw the recipe. “We doubled the recipe, so that was great for my 10 year-old to do some maths involving fractions.” Each day of homeschooling for the Dight family starts with a morning meeting, which Alison uses as a time to plan the day and go over what the children are hoping to achieve. “It’s also a time that we talk about how everyone’s feeling,” Alison
adds. “We then spend time singing, doing bible study together, dancing, and exercising. “It’s a great way to start our day fresh, connected as a family.” In order to combat boredom and frustration, Alison tries to split the day into segments and allow the children to have regular breaks. Alison, just like other parents around NZ, is finding these times stressful, but has been able to reassure herself by remembering a number of key things. “Be gentle with yourself. We’re all
mostly new to this and it’s a difficult time all around,” she advises. “Remember that you can get much more achieved homeschooling in a shorter time frame than during a full day at school. Your homeschool day doesn’t have to be 9am to 3pm. “Don’t forget that kids are watching how we react at this time. That doesn’t mean that we have to be cheery and positive all the time. “It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. It’s okay to feel normal. It’s okay to cry. It’s okay to celebrate the good in amongst the hard times - in fact that’s even more of a reason to do so!”
Katrina Whiteside
katrina@blenheimsun.co.nz
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Alison has compiled a list (below) of homeschooling resources and ideas that she has found helpful throughout the isolation period so far. Websites: Pinterest.com - a wealth of ideas, recipes, resources, printable activities Readingeggs.com - maths and
reading Facebook group: “Keeping kids busy in isolation” Facebook group: “Sofa Shakespeare” Facebook group: “Live in your living room, Blenheim” Duolingo.com - learn a new language Youtube.com - dance classes, origami, how to draw, kids work-
outs, kids yoga, history, karaoke, magic tricks Activites: • Make a scavenger hunt • Keep a diary • Build a hut in the lounge • Baking • Grow some flowers/veges • Have a Lego builders competition • Video call friends and family • Dance party
• Chalk outside on the driveway • Homemade playdough, paint, slime • Read books • Draw family portraits • Write a book • 100 acts of kindness • Paper mache • Create a play and video it to share • Create a time capsule • Indoor or outdoor obstacle course
Marlborough Lines responds to COVID-19 Electricity distribution company, Marlborough Lines Limited (MLL) is an essential service under the Government’s COVID-19 Alert Level 4 status. MLL will maintain the essential service of keeping its electricity network operational to ensure that electricity supply to homes and busi-
nesses in Marlborough continues. This means that MLL vehicles will be seen around Marlborough, for the duration of Alert Level 4, as staff carry out essential works including responding to power outages and performing critical maintenance tasks. MLL’s Acting CEO, Gareth Jones,
requests that members of the public do not approach Marlborough Lines staff working on the network to ensure safe distances are maintained and help prevent the possible spread of COVID-19. “The health and safety of both the public, and our staff, is paramount at this time.”
MLL’s physical offices are closed, with most of the company’s staff working from home. However, we can still be contacted by phoning (03) 577 7007 or emailing: info@mll.co.nz. Fu r t her i n for mat ion is a lso ava i lable on ou r website at : www.marlboroughlines.co.nz
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The Sun
Wednesday April 1, 2020
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Changing times for our paper
inbrief
Your local newspaper The Blenheim Sun, now in its 18th year of printed publication - until this week. We made the decision to not publish our twice-weekly papers with some sadness but realising it was the only sensible action to take. The fact is every single time one of our own team, including our deliverers leaves the confines of their homes, it doesn’t just affect them and their families but our whole community and nation. Nor did we wish to create another ‘touch point’ to spread the virus, with a physical copy. A copy that we are normally so proud to produce. It wasn’t a decision made lightly as we love sharing news of what makes our region so great. Bear with us though!
Daylight Saving this Sunday
Our online edition is still available weekly and will be filled with as much positive Marlborough news you could ask for. Then, before you know it, we’ll be back with your favourite local community newspaper, sharing the best businesses, people and places this region has to offer. When the lockdown is lifted, we will be a critical vehicle for our business community to get their messages out to our readers. Til then, we are not abandoning you! Please read online at www.blenheimsun.co.nz Now as week ONE is complete, we hope you and your families are keeping safe. Remember - when people support each other, incredible things happen.
The Sun
Daylight saving ends this weekend. Remember to turn your clocks back one hour this Sunday morning. With clocks being wound back this weekend, the New Zealand Fire Service is also reminding people to check their smoke alarms. The Fire Service says it is an ideal time to check to see if smoke alarms were operating correctly.
Katrina and Les Whiteside publishers of The Sun encourage readers to share our papers online with family and friends.
Remember fire safety during COVID-19 lockdown Fire and Emergency is urging New Zealanders to think about fire safety as they self-isolate to prevent spread of COVID-19. Fire and Emergency Chief Executive, Rhys Jones, says with people staying home for at least the next three weeks, it’s now more important than ever for everyone to be fire-safe. “We’re heading into winter, and with households self-isolating together, there’ll be more cooking at home, and more use of open fires, heaters, and dryers - all things which can increase fire risk,” Rhys says. “We regularly attend fires caused by overloaded electrical outlets. So, if you’re working from home, please check your workspace set up to ensure plugs aren’t overloaded.
Make sure your heating source is at least a metre away from everything - including other people, laundry and furniture. Keep your cooking surfaces free from grease and please - never, ever leave pans unattended on the stove top.” Rhys Jones says this is a good time to press the button on all your smoke alarms to check they’re working, “A house fire can kill in five minutes - go over an escape plan with everyone in your household. “At times like this it’s really important to look after each other. So please also check in with vulnerable family members and neighbours. Do what you can to help them with their own fire safety preparations, as long as you can do so safely, following the advice about physical
distancing on covid19.govt.nz.” Rhys says New Zealanders could rest assured that Fire and Emergency was well-prepared and ready to respond to emergencies as usual during the nationwide self- isolation period. “If you do need to call 111 for a fire, we will ask you whether anyone at the address is self-isolating or has a confirmed case of COVID-19. Where this is the case, we already have necessary measures in place to ensure everyone’s safety including protective clothing, gloves, masks, safety glasses and masks. “Our top priority is to keep your people and our people safe. Together we can prevent both the spread of COVID-19 and the often-devastating consequences of household fires.”
Looking for an easy DIY project during lockdown? How about installing new fire alarms in your home, or checking your existing ones have fresh batteries.
Read us online! To all our valued readers going forward over the next little while please keep up with the news by checking out the Sun online: www.blenheimsun.co.nz Send us your news to news@blenheimsun.co.nz
Wednesday
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Wednesday April 1, 2020
The Sun
one on one with the Sun
Father Pat returns to Papua New Guinea When young Pat McIndoe decided to become a Catholic priest, he had no idea of the challenges and adventures his choice would bring him. As he prepares to leave Marlborough, Father Pat tells Bill McElhinney about a life of service. After nearly eight years serving the far-flung Marlborough Catholic community, Father Pat, 73, will soon be heading back to Papua New Guinea, in the southwestern Pacific. He had worked there previously at various times for a total of 28 years, living sometimes in the bush in remote areas far from civilisation. A country of immense cultural and biological diversity, Papua New Guinea is known for its beaches and coral reefs, active volcanoes and dense rainforest. And law and order also poses risks, with armed robbery, carjacking and home invasions, especially in urban areas such as Port Moresby. “Yes,” says Father Pat, who has lived and worked in Port Moresby. “It can be wild. There are gangs that roam the area so it’s not always safe. “I’ve been held up and robbed several times in the past, but at least I escaped with my life!” Undeterred by the challenges, he is willingly heading back there to do parish and pastoral work. At his age, does he think of retiring? “No,” he says. “You just keep going as long as you can.” The McIndoe family lived in Upper Hutt when Pat was born in 1946. His father worked for the Dunlop Tyre factory, but had always wanted to go farming, so when Pat was seven the family moved to a share milking position on Pat’s grandfather’s farm in Morrinsville. Pat was a boarder at Sacred Heart Marist College in Auckland when a priest from the Passionist Order visited the college. “I had been thinking about a vocation” Pat says, “but I was a shy boy and didn’t want to put myself forward.” However, he was invited to visit a Passionist house in Hamilton where he was impressed by the friendly and happy men there.
“The villages were little huts with sago palm thatched roofs, scattered throughout the bush.” Pat returned to college and did his first year of sixth form studies before, at age 16-and-a-half, applying to go to the Passionist Order house in Australia. There he joined 20 other young men, several from New Zealand, studying for a year before moving on to the next stage of their journey. In 1965 young Pat made his first
Father Pat McIndoe with a Sepak carving given to him on one of his last missions in Papua New Guinea.
temporary vows in his journey to priesthood before undertaking more years of study and pastoral work. “At the seminary in Melbourne, where we were studying theology for four years, they also wanted us to have a rounded life, so we worked outside the seminary one day a week, with the money going back to the seminary funds,” Pat says. The many jobs he did included being a cleaner and even working as a barman in a local hotel. After eight years of study and formation, Pat was ordained as Father Pat in Auckland before going back to Sydney to do pastoral work. “It was there that they were asking for volunteers to go to PNG to do missionary work, so I put my hand up,” Father Pat says. He was then sent to join a class of patrol officers – “really rough guys” – to study Pidgin English
and anthropology before being sent to Vanimo on the coast, next to the border with Indonesia, where guerrilla warfare between PNG freedom fighters and the Indonesians flared up from time to time. “It was a huge area, and pretty primitive,” Father Pat recalls. “The villages were little huts with sago palm thatched roofs, scattered throughout the bush.” As well as the scattered population, there was also the challenge of up to three different languages being spoken in some villages. After nine years in PNG, Father Pat returned to Melbourne to teach and study before returning for a further stint in PNG. At one stage he was based in Port Moresby, where he was in charge of a group of students. “They couldn’t pronounce the letter ‘P,’” he says with a grin, “so I was Father Fat!” Although he didn’t get fat on a
diet that consisted mainly of rice, sago, taro and tinned fish. After a short stint back in Australia, Father Pat went to Korea, where he joined two other Passionist priests going to China. “We didn’t go in to China as priests, we went as teachers,” Father Pat says. “We went to the Guizhou province where we learned Mandarin. It was a challenge, as I was 50 and it was tough learning a new language. And I wasn’t a trained teacher, but we managed. “But we did have to be careful, as the Chinese Government was always watching you.” In 2006 Father Pat returned for a two-year stint in Tasmania before being sent back to PNG for more parish work in the bush villages. In 2013 he came to Blenheim to work in what was then St Mary’s Catholic Parish, now called Star of the Sea, serving the parishioners from Picton through
to Kaikoura and meeting “lots of wonderful people” as he conducted many baptisms, wedding funerals and masses. The sudden death of Blenheim Parish Priest, Father John Pearce in May last year, was a shock, but Father Pat stepped in to take over his role. “In mission work they teach you to expect the unexpected,” Father Pat says. “So while Father John’s untimely death came as a shock, I knew I had to step in and take over.” Father Giltus Mathias, who previously served in Blenheim, will be arriving soon to take over as Parish Priest, assisted by Fr Jacob Kuman who was one of Father Pat’s students in PNG, and Fr Thomas Thanh Nguyen, from Vietnam. Then Father Pat will have a short holiday before returning to his life-long work of serving others.
The Sun
Wednesday April 1, 2020
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Experiencing COVID-19 away from home By Aimee O’Hagan
It’s a well-known fact that it isn’t just New Zealanders that have had to go into self-isolation over the next four weeks, but backpackers and tourists, too. Israeli native, Nadav Venkert, is one of these travellers; he’s been in NZ since the day before Christmas, stayed in Blenheim for the last two weeks, and has witnessed all of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the nation – all whilst hearing about it’s effects on his loved ones back home in Israel. For Nadav, the hardest part of this has been dealing with the fact that he can’t be there for his family. “The part that concerns me the most is the border closing and
that there is no ability to travel,” Nadav says. “It’s not that I’m worried about the Coronavirus effects, it’s just the understanding that if anything bad happened (could be a car accident even) I can’t get to my loved ones.” “You want to be around your loved ones when something like this happens. “[However,] it’s a choice that I have made.” Nadav is impressed by how quickly the New Zealand government has responded to the outbreak and put an action plan in place, especially with a much lower number of cases than the rest of the world. “In Israel, they have been less strict than kiwis,” he says. “The culture in New Zealand
is very similar to the culture in Britain – everybody does what they’re told. “The chances of getting it are very high if you don’t follow the rules... [but luckily] my family have been very rational.” Nadav is currently employed by a Marlborough contracting company and is working throughout the harvest season, but has plans to finish his travels around New Zealand once the isolation period ends. “My plan is to stick around in NZ until it gets too cold to work, then I will go to Australia,” he says. “After leaving Australia, I’ll come back here and work again. “I’ve fallen in love with New Zealand – the romance is not over yet!”
Israeli native, Nadav Venkert, is one of the many backpackers who are currently stranded in New Zealand and are unable to return home. Photo supplied.
Penguin survives dog attack, released just before Lockdown Just eight hours before the four week Lockdown period began last Thursday Little Penguin “Penny” was released into the wild near Picton. Penny has been one of EcoWorld’s most challenging rehabs. She was brought into EcoWorld, at the beginning of March, a bloody mess, having been attacked by a dog at Ngakuta Bay, Queen Charlotte Sound. The Little Penguin’s partner was killed by the same dog! After a quick triage by EcoWorld staff the Little Penguin was rushed off to Picton Vet, Christine MacKenzie, who performed emergency surgery. Surgery was quite involved, heavy sedation, numerous sutures in multiple bite wounds, inserting a drip and antibiotics. Once out of ICU Penny was placed in rehab at EcoWorld. “She is damn lucky, released just in the nick of time, and at full health,” EcoWorld director, John Reuhman, says. “Its been quite a long saga. We really didn’t think Penny would make it. She was closely monitored by EcoWorld’s team and vet Christine. “Penny vomited up all her food for the first 24 hours with us, couldn’t move and struggled with her breathing. After 48 hours on we managed to get the food to
history from the
archives The Blenheim Sun Newspaper has teamed up with the Marlborough Museum archives department to provide a weekly snapshot of events, people and historic moments
Little Penguin Penny gets her first taste of renewed freedom at Ngakuta Bay. Photo provided.
stay down and Penny began shuffling in the incubator. “Then 72 hours on and Penny was standing, a bit wobbly on it. The drip was taken out on day five and sutures removed by vet Christine on day 11. “Penny had her first carefully supervised swim at EcoWorld on day 14. On day 23, at healthy weight, strength restored and feisty again Penny was released by us at Ngatuka Bay off the Queen Charlotte Drive, which brought great joy to us” John says. Penny’s lucky rehab is a classic
example of man meets nature and nature comes off second best. “We are very grateful the dog owner thought to bring the injured penguin immediately in for our attention, giving the best possible chance of a successful outcome,” he adds. EcoWorld is an ‘Essential Business’ during the Covert-19 Alert Level 4 and may be able to attend to sick or injured Little Blue Penguins on a case by case scenario. Contact EcoWorld Aquarium or your local DOC office for advice.
Online form to report Level 4 restriction breaches to Police Police have launched a new online form which the public can use to report COVID-19 Alert Level 4 restriction breaches. The online form can be found at www.105.police.govt.nz. It can be used to report isolation breaches or cases of businesses continuing to operate when they are not part of the essential workforce. Police Commissioner, Mike Bush, urged people to use the online form
instead of calling Police. “We know that people want to do the right thing if they see people flouting the restrictions, but we want to ease the load on the non-emergency phone number. “Police will take the information reported online and make contact to remind those breaching the restrictions of their responsibilities. “We are continuing to take the approach of educating and inform-
ing people of their responsibilities in the first instance, but we will not hesitate to take enforcement action if people continue to ignore the restrictions.” “Police do not want to have to arrest anyone or visit people because they doing are the wrong thing. “Please stay at home, follow the guidelines on www.covid19.govt. nz and don’t give people a reason to report your behaviour to Police.”
captured through the lens. Each week the Sun will feature a photograph with a caption about the person, place and time, as kindly provided by the Museum.
The unveiling of the War Memorial in Renwick. A crowd of people gathered at the official opening of the War Memorial, before the Second World War. CREDIT: Renwick Museum.
y a w a e v i G THE
CORNER
The Sun Newspaper will be running a series of reader giveaways throughout the year, so keep an eye out on what goodies will be on offer next.
THIS WEEK... A selection of Formula 10.0.6 skincare products To enter into the draw to win this prize, email your name and contact to celeste@blenheimsun.co.nz Prizes can’t be collected until Lockdown lifts.
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The Sun
Wednesday April 1, 2020
Kiwi can champions – respect Kiwi Can is the transformational programme reaching over 50% of Marlborough children every week during their years at primary school.
Positive Relationships Resilience Integrity Respect
This action-packed programme, run by the Graeme Dingle Foundation Marlborough, teaches important values like resilience, integrity, positive relationships, and respect. Kiwi Can is about transforming young lives forever and enhancing the communities we live in.
“R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me…” All around Marlborough, children have been learning about respect in the Kiwi Can programme this term. This concept of respect is explained to children as: “treating people, things and places as important”. In 2020 Kiwi Can respect lessons have been focussed on: • respect for ourselves; • respect for others; and • respectful communication Depending on the age of the children, these lessons take different forms, but all involve active learning and reflection! Junior students have been learning to identify and celebrate our strengths, how to treat others kindly and with respect, and practicing active listening and respectful communication. Older students have been identifying their strengths, recognising and accepting others’ differences, learning effective ways to communicate respectfully, and looking at the effects that respectful communication (and lack of respect or discrimination) has on ourselves and others. recognising respect Each of the Kiwi Can Schools has nominated a “Kiwi Can Champion” – a student who has come to their notice, exemplifying respect in some way. These children are role modelling values we want to encourage and see more of in our community. Our challenge is to think about how we can all include these values in our everyday lives and make them a topic of conversation around our dinner tables and in the workplaces everywhere in Marlborough! Here are the nominations and their stories.
Respect Means treating people, things and places as important.
Tēnā koutou katoa and hi everyone, In this uncertain time of COVID-19, the Graeme Dingle Foundation Marlborough is committed to the ongoing delivery of our youth development programmes to support our young people here in Marlborough. We are here to help schools maintain the social and emotional component of student life. Participation in our programmes will help students to allay their anxiety, keep social connectedness in a safe way and build resilience – more important now than ever before. We are busy planning to maintain our programme delivery now schools are closed and are making adaptations so that our programmes can be implemented to learners in their homes. Students can find our Kiwi Can online content on YouTube by typing in this link: https://bit.ly/GDFMYT Parents and whānau can also keep up to date via our Facebook page @graemedingle foundationmarlborough Take care and be kind to each other
the Kiwi can champion awards are brought to you by
The Sun
Wednesday April 1, 2020
Kiwi can champions – respect
Amelia Diu
Grovetown School
Age: 5
Hayley Bond
Havelock School
Age: 9
Max Templeman Linkwater School
Age: 7
“Amelia is great at showing respect to others. She is kind, thoughtful and notices when others are in need. If someone needs a bandaid or is sad, Amelia is quick to help and support them. She also has a great smile and a happy attitude.”
“Hayley consistently shows respect for herself, for others and for her environment. During our recent camp she made sure rubbish was picked up, and willingly volunteered to do all the dishes. She is a positive and caring person - and is a great role model to others.”
“Max Templeman is our Kiwi Can Champion for this term. Max always uses polite and respectful manners and tone of voice when communicating with students, staff and visitors. He always treats people nicely. Congratulations Max!”
Rose Matheson
Starriana Uasi
Shayna Woolley
Age: 7
Rapaura School
Redwoodtown School
Age: 10
Riverlands School
Age: 7
Chloe Tucker Mayfield School
Age: 6
“Chloe demonstrates respect in everything she does. She listens to others when they speak and values other people’s opinions. She is sensitive to the feelings of her classmates and is a great friend to many of her peers. She shows great respect for the classroom environment by cleaning up after herself and being an excellent role model to others.”
Sienna Martin
Seddon School
Age: 7
“Rose is not only respectful of others and the school REACH values, she actively supports others whenever and wherever she sees need. Rose has also volunteered to step up and be an environment leader within the school. Rose is a wee superstar!”
“Starriana consistently shows respect in all that she does. She shows self-respect by being goal-driven and giving 110%. She shows respect to others by being inclusive and making sure that she takes care of the needs of others. Starriana shows respect towards the environment by taking care of equipment and resources. Her smile and positivity bring sunshine and warmth even on the greyest of days.”
“Shayna is an absolute delight to be around. In the class and around others she uses beautiful manners, thinks of others and shows respect each day. In the playground she is trusted - and she likes to help others out.”
“Sienna is a very respectful person. She shows ‘full-body listening’ when others are talking. Sienna is the first one to greet the Kiwi Can Leaders at lunchtime and displays respectful relationships with her peers. Sienna knows a lot about respect for herself, others, and respectful communication - and displays this by contributing thoughtfully in discussions during Kiwi Can lessons, and putting it into action.”
McKenzie Haronga
Addison MacDougall-Woodmore
Dori Proctor
Serafina Varley-Gibson Age: 10
“Addison is our Kiwi Can Champion because of the outstanding respect, resilience, kindness and responsibility she has demonstrated this year. She has tried so many new things this term and has been a great inspiration to her teachers and classmates. We admire Addison’s quiet acts of kindness and support and know that she is always a respectful and responsible citizen of our kura. Ka rawe Addison.”
“Dori always goes out of his way to help others without being asked, including playing with others who may be alone. A perfect example of this was when Dori gave up his own free play to do activities with one of the higher needs children. He shows active listening at all times, waiting for his time to talk and being respectful of his classmates and their opinions. Dori is a strong positive role model and never fails to put a smile on others’ faces!”
”As an Enviro Leader, Serafina is dedicated to our environment and promoting sustainability. She shows respect for all things by upcycling and repurposing leftover materials into all manner of things to sell for the benefit of the school community.”
Spring Creek School
Age: 10
“McKenzie is a very respectful leader. She demonstrates this through her ongoing behaviour and attitude. McKenzie consistently models respect to others, herself and our environment. She is a leader in our enviro school group and has been selected to attend the Wairau Clusters Leadership Camp. McKenzie shows positive and respectful relationships in our tuakana-teina learning.“
Tua Marina School
Mekka Boyce
Whitney Street School
Age: 8
Age: 10
“Mekka is a standout when it comes to all Kiwi Can values, and the value of respect is well engrained into her day to day ‘humaning’. She always speaks respectfully to adults and her fellow peers, relates well to others, is able to empathise with them, and is a true Year Six leader at Whitney Street School. In the community, Mekka can be seen standing up for what she believes in and supporting the local arts - she is an amazing performer at the Boathouse Theatre and we are so proud to have her as a part of the Whitney Street School Learning Community.”
Waikawa Bay School
Ward School
To find out more about Kiwi Can visit www.dinglefoundation.org.nz/kiwi-can Or connect with us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ graemedinglefoundationmarlborough
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Wednesday April 1, 2020
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The Sun
Shame on you Out for a stroll in my bubble, bubble burst when I saw that some irresponsible dog owner left its dog’s business on the front lawn of Bohally Intermediate. I mean really I know the kids aren’t there... really... Shame on you
Irresponsible dog owners While out on my daily walk with my dog on Saturday 28th March on Adams Lane, Roseneath Lane and Ward Street I was disgusted to see the amount of dog poo that had not been picked up by irresponsible dog owners. This poo was from both large and small dogs, come on owners pick up after your dog craps.
Let driving distract you from your phone
Thanks Thanks Sun. We miss you but appreciate you not having papers to lessen the passing on of this horrid virus. I’ll just read online so that’s alright.
Great humour Dog poo Lovely to see some many people out walking at this time, but can dog walkers please still pick up their dog poo. Noticed a lot more on the Taylor River track lately, no excuses to just ignore it.
Good to see some humour still with all the ‘funny’s’ doing the rounds. Clever at times. This one - I need to practice social distancing from the refrigerator.
Missed tumour Why did Wairau Hospital miss a GBM Brain tumour as Whangarei Base Hospital picked it up. So did Auckland City hospital.
Halved rent? To help business out. Why don’t the owners of the premises halve the rent? This will work both ways, the business will be able to keep going and the buildings owner will have a shops rent coming in. At end of lock down, at full rate.
Stay at home People please - stick to the rules! Stay at home. How hard is it? This is a small price to pay to be safe, for yourselves but also your loved ones.
Stick together Some tough times ahead but if we stick together, stay home and keep level heads then we’ll surely end up in a much better place.
Positivity It’s great seeing all the positivity and cheerfulness at the moment. It’s especially fun seeing the teddy bears in windows when I go for a walk.
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of the week Big love
Big love to our health professionals right now working so hard. Also the supermarket owners and their employees keeping food and necessities on hand for us. We welcome your texts on 027 242 5266. Limit to 70 words please. Name supplied please. We reserve the right to publish at our discretion. Please note the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Sun management.
Got an important issue to share with Marlborough?
Text your thoughts to: 027 242 5266
Supermarket pricing I’ve been seeing so much negativity for supermarkets and their prices but so far haven’t noticed any difference in my own shopping. I’m sure there are some bad eggs that have changed their prices but it still makes me wonder how much of this ‘price hike’ is just the normal weekly changes and people buying things full price that they would normally only purchase when on special.
Got an important issue to share with Marlborough?
Text your thoughts to 027 242 5266
Here to help I know many of you are feeling anxious about the health and livelihoods of your families and community right now. As the MP for Kaikōura I am here to help and support you. Please do not hesitate to contact me by phone or email if you require information or assistance. I want to serve our community by providing information, advocacy, connection and support for you and your loved ones. I have suspended all planned campaign activities so I can focus on these duties. Like you I am suspending attendance at community events and gatherings until further notice. To ensure I remain accessible I will be trialling online virtual door knocking and Facebook live. You can follow me on Facebook @stuartsmith.national The ripples of this unfolding pandemic are being felt by all of us, from kids to grand-parents to neighbours, please know you are not alone in your worries and concern. It’s important we support each other during this difficult time and I have great faith that the values of New Zealanders will come to the fore as we rise to this challenge. Kia kaha & ngā mihi,
Stuart Smith MP for Kaikōura
22 Scott Street, Blenheim 03 5793204 • 0800 STUART stuartsmith.national stuartsmith.national.org.nz
CORONAVIRUS UPDATE Health Information & Advice
Community Connection & Co-ordination
The most up-to-date health information on the coronavirus is available at this Ministry of Health website: health.govt.nz or call Healthline free on 0800 358 5453
I am in touch with community leaders and support services. If you want to know what support may be available in your neighbourhood, please let me know and I will connect you.
More general information about New Zealand’s efforts to address the virus and its impact can be found here: covid19.govt.nz If you have other unanswered questions please contact me directly.
I am impressed by the efforts of so many already to provide moral and practical support to local neighbours and communities.
Business & Employment Support
Support for the Isolated & Vulnerable
The Government has released a package of financial support for businesses and employees, contractors and the selfemployed.
Many in our community are feeling isolated and vulnerable right now. Some don’t have access to the internet and may need additional information or help with deliveries, food or other services.
Information on the support that may be available to you is detailed here: workandincome.govt.nz If you are concerned you “fall between the gaps” or are having difficulty accessing support please contact me so I can help navigate and advocate for you. The Government has acknowledged there will be a need for a second phase of support, so I will provide Ministers with your feedback on what that should look like.
If you are concerned for a community member or relative please let me know so I can give them a call, provide support directly or help connect them with some of the incredible local people and organisations readied to provide assistance. If you or anyone you know is feeling overwhelmed and needs to talk to a trained counsellor they can free call/text 1737 Authorised by Stuart Smith MP, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.
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Wednesday April 1, 2020
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Pet Selfies
Sun Newspaper readers sent in their Pet Selfies, sharing how they and their pets are coping during the four week Lockdown. You can continue to send in your Pet Selfies by emailing them to: celeste@blenheimsun.co.nz along with the names of those pictured. Ben (9) and Chloe Hardaker (5) snuggle with the family cat, Lola. Tyler O'Donnell and her puppy Saddle enjoy some cuddles.
Addi Neal, Alfie the mini Schnauzer and mum Holly Neal share their own pet selfie.
Madie Lammas enjoys a cuddle with the family Caitlin Alexander (7) poses with her cat Bella who loves to sleep among the soft toys. dog, Zoey.
SPCA sadly farewells sick cat By Celeste Alexander
It’s been a sad end for a white cat which was blind and found with advanced cancer which had been left untreated. Vincent, as he was named by the SPCA Marlborough staff, was trapped by Michelle Madsen of local organisation Marlborough Dog Pawz, before being dropped into the Springlands Veterinary Centre on March 15. Later that afternoon he was taken out to the SPCA Renwick centre. Centre manager, Donna Sologar, says Vincent’s cancer was well advanced and he had been left without treatment for some time which caused infections. “He was also blind for unknown reasons. But he was such a sweet cat and all he wanted was cuddles and food,” she says. Unfortunately for Vincent the kindest thing was the euthanise him and after some last pats, cuddles and pampering he was put to sleep eight days after arriving at the SPCA centre. Vince’s sad case has prompted Donna to appeal to the public to tell staff about any concerns they have around the care of an animal as soon as possible, so that the animals can be checked. “Or if you can see an injured or sick animal, please try and catch it
Cluster cases linked to region Yesterday Marlborough once again recorded no new cases of COVID-19, with the number of confirmed cases still sitting at nine and one probably. One of the affected remains in Wairau Hospital in a stable condition, while over in Nelson a patient is in a critical but stable condition.
However the Ministry of Health did reveal that there were two significant clusters of cases being investigated which are linked to Marlborough; one being an Air Force rugby team’s trip to the US and the other stemming from Alzheimers Marlborough. These cluster cases are not new and those affected are in isolation.
Activities for families
Rest in peace Vincent!
and take it to your local vet clinic. Thank you to everyone that asked about Vincent and sent him love, and thank you to Michelle for getting this boy off the streets,” she says. Meanwhile Donna says despite the four week Lockdown period, the SPCA has been classified as an ‘Essential Service’, allowing staff to continue to care for the animals in centres. Fortunately for SPCA Marlborough, all of the adoption animals either went into foster homes or down to Christchurch last Tuesday morning and were all adopted, Donna says. “Very few animals remain onside at the moment and we have a roster for staff to go out each day.
“Our phones have been diverted to the Nelson SPCA with emergencies coming through to us as necessary. “We are just asking people be sensible during this time and respect our staff and the need for us to be safe. “I would like to give a big thank you to my team as this is a difficult time. Also a bit thank you to all the foster families and everyone who has offered help, and those in Marlborough and Christchurch who adopted one of our furbabies,” she says. Please donate to the animals to ensure we can keep doing what we need to do throughout this time. You can donate here: www.spca. nz/covid19updates
The dilemma - what ideas are on hand that suit isolation? With cinemas, libraries, shopping venues and the like all shut down, parents will be looking at other ways to keep their kids entertained. Getting creative seems like the go-to. Painting, jigsaws, card games, board games, tea parties, playdoh, reading, to name a few. It could also be a good time for the kids to help with household chores, which don’t have to be boring. Encourage the cleaning, tidying of bedrooms, also a way to keep
them active. If you have enough pantry supplies, you can also enjoy baking with the family. Usually a hit with everyone. Children may be missing their learning in the classroom but there are other life skills that can be taught during this time. Depending on their age of course. Learning to cook, do the laundry, sewing, phoning grandparents, studying world maps. Another family option is to get out the old photo albums and enjoy looking at precious moments from years gone by. Be inventive - good luck!
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Wednesday April 1, 2020
Memories shared of respected journalist, Phillip Campbell By Celeste Alexander
“Straight up, fair, kind, successful, and one of the old original honest journalists” – these are just some of the many ways friends and former colleagues have described Phillip Campbell, a notable journalist who forged his name in an industry which now paying tribute to his life. Phillip is well known and loved by many from all corners of the country, including here in the Marlborough, and will be respectfully remembered after passing away suddenly last Wednesday in Waikato Hospital, aged 72-years from a heart condition. He is survived by his wife Lesley and daughter Rebekah. Born in Island Bay, Wellington Phillip took his first step into journalism with a position at the Marlborough Express where he worked in advertising and as a reporter from the late 1960s to 1972. Former colleague and now retired journalist, Bill McElhinney, fondly remembers his time working with Phillip. “He was a reporter when I worked there in 1970 and we became good friends,” Bill says. “I was a subeditor and he was a reporter. His main interest was sport and he was a particularly good rower. “He earned the nickname ‘Sculler’ because of his rowing abilities. He was a very genuine person, made friends easily and was popular among his sporting contacts. “I’m very sorry to hear of his passing; he was a lovely guy and a well-respected journalist – a true local boy,” Bill says. The same sentiment was shared by retired photographer, Graham Brooks, who is close to the Campbell family. “I knew the family well and went through college with Phillip’s
younger brother, Lindsay. I worked with his mother and saw a lot of his father. I went on to spend a lot of time with the family over the years and they were a lot of fun – a cracker family! “In later years I got to know Phil and with the rise of social media we made contact once again around three years ago and started corresponding more, talking about memories and the local people he knew. “Then one day he offered to write some pieces for the Facebook page; Old Marlborough, the way we were, and I said ‘right, let’s go’! “He would send them to me, I’d correct dates and times to the best of my ability and send it to him, then he would rewrite them and send them back again,” Graham laughs. “Phil emailed one day saying he didn’t think he would be writing much anymore, and looking back I can see now he wasn’t well with his heart condition. “Before he came to Blenheim for a recent reunion we made plans to catch up. He had a whole lot of ideas from the reunion to write about… but sadly it wasn’t to be. “He was an extremely gifted man, very fair and he worked so hard. He was one of the old original honest journalists. If something wasn’t right he would say so. “The Campbell family was a very tight family and were proud of him, and they had the right to be proud! What Phil had and took with him you can’t replace. Marlborough District Councillor and friend, Mark Peters was saddened by his passing but grateful for the time he and wife Viv spent with him during a recent reunion held in Blenheim for former pupils of St Mary’s Boys School Forms 1 and 2 classes. The old school they attended doesn’t exist now, but was located on part of what is now St
Respected journalist and a great friend to many, Phillip Campbell (left) has left a lasting impression on all of those who knew him after passing away on March 25. He is pictured here with Mark Peters at a recent reunion held for former pupils of St Mary's Boys School Form 1 and 2 classes. Photo provided
Mary’s School grounds. Mark and Viv hosted Phillip for both nights of the reunion and say he was “thrilled to bits he could make it”. “He was a dear friend, chum, supporter, scribe, commentator, raconteur extraordinaire, and overall bloody good bugger. Phil has always been a really neat guy – just a gentleman! He had the most amazing command of the English language I have ever come across. “He was clearly not well when he came down with his brother Lindsay but he took part in the reunion and thoroughly enjoyed it. “We were all thrilled to bits that he could make it and he was delighted he did. We had around 63 people attending and of that, 37 were from the combined classes of Forms 1 and 2. In 1960 we had about 54 boys in that combined class; eight or nine have since passed but of the rest about 37 came to the reunion.
“One of Phillip’s recent emails was how glad he was that he made the effort to come to Blenheim to be with us, and how he enjoyed everyone’s company. Given that the whole reunion was his and Bill Lynch’s idea, thanks so much Phil that you did that. “The reunion was a fateful and final farewell for those of us here though, and for that we must be thankful.” Mark says Phillip attended the school “with the rest of us” around 1957-61. “Then when he was 16 he applied for a job at the Marlborough Express and waited two hours sitting on the steps to see the editor. “He said he really wanted the job and got it! He went on to work with my cousin Gabriel David who mentored Phil through those days and for his efforts became an award winning sports writer, successful journalist and editor. “Our thoughts, prayers and
sympathies go out to Lesley and Rebekah, to Lindsay and to his entire family and friends. He will command a lofty perch in Heaven because he was wise and good and honest,” Mark says. Phillip was awarded the Queen’s Service Medal for services to sport and journalism in 2013. Former Prime Minister, Helen Clark, was quoted by SunMedia in his obituary to “greatly admire” Phillip. “Phil will always be remembered as a professional journalist of the highest integrity who was dedicated to informing the public accurately. He set a standard for all journalists present and future. Phil will be greatly missed.” RIP Phil Campbell 30/01/1948 25/03/2020 A funeral has not taken place and a celebration of his life will be held at a later date with more details to come.
Free flowers for workers By Aimee O’Hagan
A family of local flower growers are doing their part to spread a message of positivity during these trying times. Sitting outside 198 Rapaura Road (opposite the Vines Village) are a particularly eye-catching sign and buckets of colourful, premium gerberas. They were placed there by the owners of local business The Pot Shed, Melisa and Andrew Bassett, who both came up with the idea of giving away free flowers to the essential workers who often pass by their property each day. According to Melisa, the idea initially stemmed from their need to find creative ways of making sure the beautiful flowers don’t go to waste during the month-long isolation period.
“I usually send the flowers to the florists and the supermarkets,” Melisa says. “But I’m not using them at the moment and I didn’t want to throw them away.” She says that the couple wanted to show that they appreciate all the hard work that local essential workers are doing for Marlborough and the rest of New Zealand. “It’s a way of sharing the love, sharing the gratitude, and sharing kindness: giving back locally and looking out for the community,” Melisa says. “I originally had the idea of driving around Blenheim and dropping them off at people’s doorsteps, but obviously I’m kind of limited in that sense!” She and Andrew have had lots of help from their children to collect the gerberas and put them
The Pot Shed owner, Melisa Bassett, has started up a small initiative providing free gerberas for essential workers in Blenheim. Photos supplied. LEFT: Look out for this sign on Rapaura Road.
in bunches. “We’re showing our kids that this is the kind of positive thing we can do,” Melisa says. For Melisa, the response she’s had from Marlburians has been “moving”. “I cried when I read all of the
comments on my Facebook post and saw the overwhelming appreciation that people have,” Melisa smiles. “It’s so lovely to know it’s making an impact in the community. “ The gerberas will be outside the property 24/7 from now until an
undecided date. Please remember to be respectful of others and only take one bunch of flowers per worker, making sure that there is plenty to go around. Personal protective equipment has been used to ensure the flowers are safe for others to handle.
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Wednesday April 1, 2020
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The Sun
Wednesday April 1, 2020
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Wednesday April 1, 2020
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Overseas travel recently? Recent overseas travellers urged to get a free assessment if they develop COVID-19 symptoms Nelson Marlborough Health (NMH) Clinical Director of Public Health, Dr Stephen Bridgman, urges anyone in the region who has returned from overseas in the past 14 days, or who has been in close contact with someone who has, to seek urgent medical advice from a community-based assessment centre as soon as they develop even the mildest of COVID-19 symptoms. As at March 29, all 18 confirmed cases and 1 probable case of COVID-19 in the Nelson Marlborough
region are related to travel. Eleven of the 18 confirmed cases are primary cases. Primary cases are people who have returned from overseas. The remaining seven cases are secondary cases – people who have been in close contact with primary cases. NMH Clinical Director of Public Health Dr Stephen Bridgman explains why it is important for recent travellers and their close contacts to proactively seek medical advice at this point of time:
“People who have returned from overseas, or who are close contacts of those who have, might be feeling quite healthy, but be incubating the virus. Or they may only be experiencing mild coldlike symptoms. “It’s understandable why people who have mild respiratory symptoms – such as a congested or runny nose, sneezing, a sore throat or cough – might not seek advice. But if you are having mild symptoms and have returned recently from overseas you may be infecting your
close contacts with the virus. “By assessing someone as soon as symptoms start, we have the best chance of preventing spread of the virus among close contacts. It will also help prevent a local community outbreak. “Therefore, in these exceptional times anyone who has been travelling overseas and develops even mild cold like symptoms should seek assessment as soon as possible,” Dr Bridgman says. Dr Bridgman says that, given all cases to date in Nelson Marl-
borough are travel-related, it is crucial that anybody who has been overseas in the last 14 days follows the Government’s self-isolation rules, as they are a high-risk group for COVID-19. “While there is no proof yet of community transmission of COVID-19 in the Nelson Marlborough region yet, this is a real risk and we urge all residents to comply with the Government’s ‘Level 4’ isolation and physical distancing rules, to prevent a community outbreak.”
Rubbish and recycling services during the COVID-19 event The government has announced the movement to level 4 in response to the COVID-19 situation. Level 4 restricts our movements as a community to reduce the potential for spreading of the virus. The community should therefore restrict how often it visits the council operated rubbish and recycling facilities. With immediate effect the following changes in rubbish and recycling services supplied by council will apply: Kerbside collections in Blenheim and Picton will continue as normal. Ensure bags and crates are out at the kerb by 7.30 am on your collection day. To minimise the handling of recycling by the collection crews, these materials will now have to be
sent to landfill until further notice. Public holiday kerbside collections put additional pressure on resources as we have to collect two days in one route. To mitigate this, kerbside collections will now be carried out on the day of the public holiday. Good Friday - Collection on Friday Easter Monday - Collection on Monday ANZAC Day - Collection on Anzac Day Council refuse bags (rolls of 10) can continue to be purchased from the supermarkets and the annual vouchers will be issued in July as normal. Council refuse bags will not be sold from Council offices for the foreseeable future.
Blenheim couple, Neroli and Peter Edwards, have embraced the spirit of community and Easter by placing a blue bunny on their letterbox at their Beaver Road Blenheim address.
Caitlin Alexander (7) has placed one of her favourite teddy bears in the front window of her family home on Taylor Pass Road, Blenheim.
People should continue to observe good hygiene practices when handling their rubbish or recycling, says Council Solid Waste Manager, Alec McNeil. “Our priority is ensuring the health and safety of our contractors and of the public during this time.” “Wash your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds after handling rubbish or recycling and carry cleaning wipes with you to use at the Council’s transfer stations, resource recovery centre, rural community recycling bins and coin skips.” “Please also practice social distancing - maintain a two-metre space between yourself and other people when using our facilities.” “Please use Eftpos at the trans-
fer stations to minimise contact through the use of cash. The Eftpos terminals are wiped down between transactions.” “The transfer stations will continue to open as normal. The community is requested to use the transfer stations for bagged waste only where possible. Blenheim and Picton residents who receive the kerbside service should avoid using the transfer stations and should put their rubbish and recycling at the kerb on their collection day.” “The resource recovery centre will continue to open as normal but access will be controlled to ensure social distancing is being observed.” “The rural community recycling
services and coin skips will continue to operate as normal at this time, but this could change if resources become stretched,” Alec says. “The reuse centre in Blenheim will close with effect from Midday on Wednesday 25 March.” “For commercial waste operators the landfill site will continue to operate as normal at this time. There are some changes to the booking-in protocol when you arrive at the site. These measures are designed to protect you and the landfill staff. Your co-operation is appreciated.” “The community are asked to keep waste generation to a minimum and observe the restriction on movements that will help us limit the spread of the virus.”
Window teddies spread cheer Teddy bears in windows, large and small, and of every colour imaginable – this is how Marlborough families are showing solidarity with one another as the region hunkers down for the Government’s four-week COVID-19 lockdown period. Already a number of local families have started to adopt the idea which was initiated elsewhere in New Zealand via the Facebook page ‘We’re Not Scared – NZ Bear Hunt’.
It was designed to encourage people to place a teddy bear where it can be seen from the street. As people are permitted to go outside for fresh air and a some might like to go for a walk in their neighbourhood, don’t forget the rule of keeping a two-metre distance from others. Thank you to everyone who has sent in their photos. Please continue to send them through to celeste@ blenheimsun.co.nz and the Sun will publish them weekly.
A number of families who are part of the Friends of Renwick School parent support group got creative in their own homes to make some posters with positive messages, thanking ‘essential workers’ in Marlborough, and attached them to the front fence of Renwick School on High Street. Dubbed 'Renwick's Fence of Gratitude', the posters are a positive reminder to 'stay in your bubble', 'stay safe at home' and thanked 'essential workers' and the Police for their service during what has been a difficult time for many. Pictured is the middle section of the posters. Many more feature along the fence.
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Wednesday April 1, 2020
Business owners urged to seek help Business Trust Marlborough is urging local businesspeople to take up the Government’s offer of assistance. Business Trust Marlborough manager, Brian Dawson, says Business Trust Marlborough is keen to talk to business owners to ensure they are accessing all the support they can. Brian is at home on lockdown, but is working remotely, helping Marlborough businesspeople during the crisis. New Zealand is on lockdown for four weeks, with only people working in essential services allowed to leave their homes to work. All domestic travel is
banned, and the borders have closed. Marlborough is fortunate that it is a district with many primary industry producers able to keep working during the lockdown, Brian says, but there are many other businesses in the district unable to operate. “I encourage everyone to look at the COVID-19 information the Government has online at covid19.govt.nz and to see what help they can get for their businesses at this time.” Brian says he is keeping busy at home during the lockout helping locals apply for the wage subsidy and the self-em-
ployed business assistance that has been made available by the Government. He urges locals not to be shy and to take up the help being offered. Businesses can make contact with the Business Trust if they want to talk through the assistance available. “This pandemic is having a profound impact on the economy and we just don’t know how long it will last. “The lockdown is for four weeks, but it is uncertain what measures will be in place after that and how businesses will be able to operate. We don’t know what the new normal will be like.”
Creativity during lock-down By Frances Chin
Amid the nation’s level four lockdown, parents attempt to keep their children busy while families adjust to the new status quo. Tasman based artist, Nerys Ngaruhe, says the lock-down is an incredible opportunity to get artistic with your children, while taking inspiration from your own childhood. “Think back to your childhood. What games would you play? I was always making some-thing, be it banjos from cereal boxes or potions from the garden. Take a child-like ap-proach toward everything. Daydreaming, I find, is what helps the most.” Nerys has experience in thinking creatively. An artist since she was fifteen, she had her first solo exhibition aged twenty. When she was 24 she was presented with the Te Manu Pirere Award from Creative NZ. Nerys credits her family and especially her husband Rangi as influences towards the artist she is today. Nerys says her artistic style is unique to herself. “I can’t define it. When you’re starting out you’re constantly being told ‘you must fit in this box and you will be this type of artist.’ It works for some, but for a different genre of artists like myself we’re a mix of everything, so I guess the best word I can think of would be ‘miscellaneous’.” While artists such as Lady Diva & Phat1, Steve Dikto, and Tim Jacobus all influence Ner-ys’ art; her biggest inspiration is her Maori culture, Nerys says. “Maoridom is like nothing else. There
Tasman artist Nerys Ngaruhe and son Aneurin Ngaruhe show an example of creative work they've enjoyed together during Lockdown.
is an everlasting source of stories, history, tikan-ga/traditions, and having that connection literally in my blood is a blessing.” When creating with their children during lock-down, Nerys encourages parents to think outside the box, and use household items. She herself uses a variety of salvaged and upcycled items for her art, including greenstone, native wood, and second-hand skateboards. “I find inspiration is everywhere, I just need to look.” “Unlearn what the intended uses for objects are. Pretend you are Macgyver. Don’t stress about creating masterpieces, just have fun with the process. Household items are the best crafting materials.” Possible activities Nerys suggests includes building a blanket fort, or drawing with your children. She says to “go with their interests, break it down.” “Perhaps there was a toy you always
dreamt of having back in the day. Churn out some easy homemade air dry clay and build it, paint it, and takarokaro/play!” “Teach your tamariki the origins of Easter, and how other cultures pay homage. Who cares if it’s not Hallowe’en or Christmas, it can be any day you want it to be. [You could] craft some decorations, and bake traditional kai/food.” “Choose a theme for each day of the week, dress up and create an in-house theatre with a script written by your tamariki.” “Make a mixtape of your top ten childhood songs, have a dance off and craft a trophy from edible items.” Nerys says her children Aneurin, Evander, and Ranea are major influences to her career and artwork. “I want to be the artist I dreamt of being as a kid, to show them that they can do literally anything they dream.” “Tohaina oo painga ki te ao” “Share your gifts with the world.”
Business Trust Marlborough owner, Brian Dawson, is urging local businesspeople to take up the Government’s offer of assistance.
Covid-19 Scams By community constable Russ Smith
The current lockdown means that a significant percentage of the population are spending increasing amounts of time using social media and other online forums. Criminals are often quick to take advantage of a situation and the pandemic the world is facing is no exception. Scammers and attackers are using public interest in Covid-19 to create opportunistic online scams and attacks. A scam email claiming that it is from the World Health Organisation is in circulation. It has COVID-19 in the subject line and seeks donations to the WHO COVID-19 Response Fund. Don’t respond! Any digital donation you make goes to scammers. Similar emails also encourage people to fill out their email and password before they can get information on COVID-19. They claim to be able to provide information on new cases of COVID-19 in your city and a guide to pandemic survival. These are not legitimate and are an attempt to steal personal information. In another email, the scammer demands payment of a ransom, threatening that the recipient’s family will be deliberately infected with Corona virus if there is no payment. Security researchers have
Russ Smith
identified that a ‘coronavirus map’ application available for download onto devices is a malware application designed to steal sensitive information like passwords and bank account details. Australians have been receiving COVID-19 themed text messages that have a link claiming to direct people to testing facilities. The link is not legitimate and instead is likely to install malicious software on your device. The basic massage is to be suspicious when receiving unsolicited advice, requests or links that appear to come from official sources. Check the claims out independently. Never click on a link sent to you unexpectedly. Never disclose your passwords or login credentials and keep you device up-to-date. Stay safe out there and look after one-another.
Wither Hills and Victoria Domain mountain bike parks to close Following recent rainfall and discussion with the Marlborough Mountain Bike Club, Council has decided to close its mountain bike parks in Blenheim’s Wither Hills Farm Park and Picton’s Victoria Domain. Deputy Mayor and Assets and Services Committee Chair Nadine Taylor says; “Council is following the Government’s Covid-19 guidance closely and we want
to minimise the potential risk of injury to mountain bikers, which could result in emergency callouts or compromise our emergency and health workers. “This is also consistent with other potentially risky pastimes such as fishing and tramping, which have also been restricted. “The current national advice is that people should stay home or stay local. In line with this advice,
if people have to drive to their place of recreation or travel beyond their immediate neighbourhood then they’ve probably gone too far.” Walking the upper tracks of the Wither Hills and Victoria Domain outside the mountain bike parks is permitted. These are open areas with wide trails. Biking can still take place on the easier bike-designated trails outside the mountain bike park areas.
“Please always maintain two-metre physical distancing and stay within your ‘bubble’. Where possible, gates have been left open. Please avoid directly touching closed gates - wear gloves or use hand sanitiser before and after opening and closing, and wash your hands thoroughly when you return home. Please take extra care and exercise within your ability. “If behaviour is not consistent
with the Government’s lockdown guidance, Council would consider further park closures. Let’s hope that is not the case because the open space exercise opportunities are very beneficial for all of us during this challenging time,” says Nadine. Signage will be put up advising the public of the changes. For further information go to www.marlborough.govt.nz
The Sun
Wednesday April 1, 2020
GARDENING THIS WEEK Rain at last: By Wally Richards The arrival of Autumn rains has not let us down and progressively most of the country is enjoying the benefits of water from the sky. Rain brings down nitrogen which gives plants a nice growth spurt and as its not full of chlorine like some peoples tap water it allows the soil life to prosper and breed, increasing their numbers to the advantage of the soil and plants. I have seen in a nice wet spring how the gardens come alive; along with the longer daylight hours and temperatures rising to warm the soil. As time passes and the rains stops, we then have to start watering and if your tap water is chlorinated then your plants suffer with leaf diseases, also they don’t look as healthy and as happy as previously. Then a summer shower for a day or so and suddenly the gardens perk up again as the soil life, which can have three generations in a 24 hour period, respond, assisting the plants by breaking down organic material. Plants obtain great benefits from their actions when their populations are high. You want great gardens and happy plants then keep destructive chemicals out of them. With the rain comes a few problems as well as the advantages of our gardens perking up. Slugs and snails which have been dormant during the dry times will come out very hungry and your seedlings which smell nice will be very enticing. You do not want to use chemical poisons for slug baits as they are harmful to you and your food crops and to pets/wildlife. There is a bait that is iron based and not harmful from Tui called Quash. You could make your own bait using a combination of bran, sulphate of iron and yeast. The bran is the carrier. The yeast is the attractant and the chelate sulphate of iron is the killer. Other ones I saw on a web site are: Cornmeal – Slugs love it and die shortly after eating it. (interesting) Caffeine – diminishes slugs and
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Melisa Bassett Rapid Transformation Coach snails appetites, very effective slug killer, small amount of coffee with water and the slugs dies within two days. Spray on or around plants or on the slugs themselves. (not sure about that but try it) Iron phosphate – Completely disrupts their digestive system and adds iron into the soil while it’s at it. (Yep iron is a good killer) Copper is a compound/metal that slugs and snails can’t abide by and if they come into contact with it they die. I suggest placing untreated sawdust around your seedlings and the spraying them with Wallys Liquid Copper with Raingard added. Spray the seedling at the same time, repeat two weeks later. Slugs and snails will not go over copper. This is also a good control for ornamental garden plants that get shredded by the pests. Copper wire can be used by some as a snail wall but metal copper tends to tarnish and become ineffective. Powdery Mildew will now be seen on a number of annuals and vegetables plus some ornamentals. This is normal and older annual plants are likely coming to the end of their days, cubits such as squash, pumpkins and zucchini are also on the way out. Roses are going to drop leaves and winter rest. It may be useful to keep a few vegetables going to mature a bit more produce but with flowering annuals there is little point. The best control for delaying the problem that I have found is
spraying the white foliage with Wallys Super Neem Tree Oil. It turns the leaves back to green straight away allowing the plant to gain energy from the sun. If you have plants unaffected by the mildew then you can protect them by mixing a tablespoon of baking soda into a litre of warm water, add a mil of Raingard and spray the foliage. Moist times brings out the ‘Bryophytes’ which are small, non-vascular plants, such as mosses, liverworts and hornworts. They play a vital role in regulating ecosystems because they provide an important buffer system for other plants, which live alongside and benefit from the water and nutrients that bryophytes collect. They also can be unsightly and with mosses and algae, slime dangerously slippery when wet. Where you do not want them or where they can cause a fall such as on steps and paths best to get rid of them. Wallys Moss & Liverwort control is the most cost effective product to use, cleans up the problem nicely and does not harm plants. For moss and liverworts mix at 50mils per litre of water and turn the nozzle of the sprayer to a jet and shoot them. A mist or spray does not work as the product has to be forced into the target bryophyte.. For lichen and others a mix at 25mils per litre is usually sufficient and a good wetting spray normally does the trick. P r o bl e m s? R i n g m e a t 0800 466464
What food do you crave most often? Dark Chocolate When you have had a bad day, what do you do to feel better? I’m a Coach and so I understand the power of the mind and so I very rarely have a bad day. If I do then I would take a bath and reflect in my journal. I find writing down what my challenge has been that day I get clarity around it and how to overcome it. What’s one thing on your bucket list? To write a book. Who has been the biggest inspiration in your life? That’s a hard call. I’ve been inspired by many incredible people in my life and if I had to choose I’d say my Dad. He’s taught me how to live and love life to the full with a playful spirit. What’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever been? Gosh I’ve been to many beautiful places around the world, each holding their own special memory. Probably my favourite would be Aitutaki Cook Islands where we spent our honeymoon.
What was the last photo you took? A photo of a plant pot I’m going to paint and upcycle for my Therapy room. I bought a Peace Lily plant to raise my spirits during this challenging time. What thing do you really wish you could buy right now? I wish I could buy a vaccine for the COVID19 to help save those infected. What is the best or worst purchase you’ve ever made? My best purchase was a Skydive over the Namibian Desert. It was a mind blowing experience and one I’d love to do again one day. Favourite programme currently watching? I don’t actually watch TV. I normally study, research and upskill. Ha ha I know that sounds like I’m really boring but I love learning new things. If you had to flee the country, where would you choose to live? Ha ha, Well right now I wouldn’t be able to flee the country. I’ve travelled the world and I love living in NZ. We have so much beauty on our doorstep.
REAL CARE IT’S WHAT WE DO BEST AVAILABLE NOW: Fully decorated large and spacious rooms, with the care and atmosphere of home. All with ENSUITES, and stunning views over our famous gardens and pathways.
Phone now for ALL LEVELS OF CARE From Rest Home to Hospital to Dementia Level. And if you need support, or a break, RESPITE care is available now. Just call for your free personal tour, opposite Springlands Shopping Centre
118 - 130 Middle Renwick Road, Springlands | ph 03 577 9990 | ashwoodpark.co.nz
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The Sun
Wednesday April 1, 2020
Trades and Services AIR CONDITIONING
BUILDING
CARPET INSTALL & SERVICE
COMPUTERS
ELECTRICAL
For all your electrical needs THE HEAT PUMP, AIR CONDITIONING & VENTILATION SPECIALISTS
For all your home & business IT needs
MARLBOROUGHS AUTHORISED DAIKIN DEALER
Call us now!
1 Freswick St, Blenheim Ph 578 0030 www.martella.co.nz
FURNITURE
• Furniture and Kitchens • Bespoke Designs • Remodelling • Restorations • Repairs
Quality assured! For friendly efficient service call Dave Monahan today 0274 419 028 or 578 3312 www.uptonoaks.co.nz 33 Hammerichs Rd, Blenheim
We service all Commercial Kitchen & Laundry equipment. Local agent for Starline Dishwashers.
Ph: 579 4445 www.cmelectrical.co.nz
Ph: (03) 577 9498 17 Kinross Street
sales@bpcomputers.co.nz
GARAGE DOORS
GATES GATES
JEWELLER
GARAGE DOOR SYSTEMS
Classic Gates
PhiliP Gibbison
ENGINEERING MARLBOROUGH POWDERCOATING • Sectional Doors • Roller Doors • Tilt Doors • Commercial Doors • Gate Systems • Garage Door Openers 41 Grove Road BLENHEIM Ph 578 8251 info@dominatorblenheim.co.nz
KITCHENS
See the experts for:
Sandblasting Powdercoating Gates, Fencing Furniture Pool Fences
PROMOTE
YOUR BUSINESS Advertise on the sun’s
Trades & services pAge
6 Nelson St, Blenheim
Ph/Fax 578 0374 a/h 021 838 550
CAll us todAy
577 7868
Jewellers Your Watch & Clock professional.
Quality repairs to all brands.
Ph 578 2595 Cleghorn St Redwood Village
DAVE REES PAINTERS & DECORATORS For all painting and decorating needs
Interiors, exteriors, residential, commercial Including wallpapering, varnishing, roof spraying, new homes, repaints - we do it all All Workmanship Guaranteed
davereespainters@xtra.co.nz
Mobile 0272 472 784
for detAils
PANEL & PAINT
PAINTER
PEST CONTROL
PLASTERER
YES We Repair Everyday Vehicles
Loca ll
and m y design ed anufa Make sure there is a cture d Mastercraft Kitchen at the heart of your home
MARLBOROUGH
Panel & Paint
Residential & Commercial Pest Control
Approved Gold Repairer for Classic Cover Insurance • Panel and paint specialists • Plastic welding • Large and small repairs • Fully equipped paint booth • Touch-ups and full re-sprays • Insurance work
Roger Abernethy Qualified Technician Urban Pest Management (3) PMANZ
Ant Specialist 572 7268 021 0250 6271
by Cantwell Joinery Visit us online at www.mastercraft.co.nz or call us on 03 578 3375 Showroom: 15 Bristol Street, Riverlands, Blenheim
PLUMBER
spouting SPOUTING
BLENHEIM TRUSTED PLUMBERS, GASFITTERS AND DRAINLAYERS
Spouting
WHETHER YOU NEED GAS, DRAINAGE OR PLUMBING SERVICES, WE HAVE GOT YOU COVERED.
Call Steve today 03 577 6920 021 625 378
Repairs & Replacement
No job too small PVC Galvanized Coloursteel Internal gutters
Call Don today 027 279 7392 Over 30 years experience. Locally owned and operated.
E: rogerandabby@ gmail.com
03 578 0086
info@classicandcustom.co.nz | classicandcustom.co.nz | 3 Warwick Street
TIMBER
Marlborough's locally owned timber Merchant & Manufacturer We stock • Sawn and gauged SG8 timber • All decking and fencing timber materials • Timber for Horticulture and Viticulture • Building hardware • Plywood • Marine grade timber • Beehive boxes • Roundwood for Vineyards
163 Hammerichs Rd, Blenheim Ph: 03 578 0221
WINDOW TINTING TINTING WINDOWS
WINDOW TINTING
Controlling: HEAT GLARE FADE PRIVACY SECURITY Free Measure & Quote
Lloyd Yorke
0274 327 949 A/Hrs 578 7889
TREE CARE
Tree Removal Height Reduction Trimming/Thinning Branch Chipping Hedge Trimming Line Clearance Stump Grinding Mulch Supplies Fully Insured FREE QUOTES
Ph. 03 578 0083
(Lance) 021 361912 cts@xtra.co.nz
• Exterior plaster systems • Speciality coatings and painting • Approved EQC repairers Over 25 years local experience locally owned and operated
Jared Hall 027 454 4023
velvetplastering@gmail.com
WATER TANKS
Summer Special
The Sun
Wednesday April 1, 2020
Public Notices HEATPUM P supply, service, install. Free quotes. Call now 0284052863
Txt Talk Text your thoughts to: 027 242 5266
Public Notices
BRUNO PAINTING AND WATERBLASTING Rai Valley based will travel anywhere in the Sounds ph 022 064 6953
ClOthing AlteRAtiOns & DRessmAking Ready 3 - 7 days Will pick up and deliver Phone Robyn 573 7257 OR 0223172948 Situations Vacant
KITCHEN LAUNDRY CAREGIVER positions available
If you enjoy working in a team environment and have a passion for the elderly, then we would like to hear from you. Please email facilitymanager@ashwoodpark.co.nz
MARLBOROUGH LINES Network Maintenance DISCOUNT PAYMENT 2020 On 25 MarchAdministrator 2020, Marlborough Lines Limited (MLL) made
discount payments to eligible consumers connected to Marlborough a progressive MLL’s network,Lines via theiriselectricity retailer. electricity distribution business providing high quality Ordinarily, MLL would issue a letter to eligible consumers electricity distribution services the Marlborough outlining the discount payment processtoand amount region. receivable. However, due to the current COVID-19 situation, MLL will delay issuing these postal letters until when normal Wepostal haveservice a vacancy Network Maintenance resumesfor (i.e.awhen “non-essential” post is Assistant provide administrative support to the allowableto again). Maintenance Manager Network division. Some consumers are able toand receive the discount payment letter via email, if their electricity retailers permit this option. MLL willduties still issuefor discount letters via email to Primary this payment position include: consumers. those assisting in the management, reporting and The amountof thatasset an “average” domesticrelated consumer (as and analysis inspection data defined by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and information Employment) will have received is $226 (incl. GST). The monitoring and timely reporting of maintenance amount that each consumer receives depends on the workoforders progress including nature their electricity connection and thecosts amountincurred of relative to budget energy consumed between February 2019 and January 2020. setting up meetings, prepare agendas, record, type andshould distribute minutes and on follow Consumers see the meeting discount payment appearing their or Aprilpoints. monthly electricity invoice as a credit. up March on action MLL was intending to include a copy of its latest with the discount payment letter. The“Connections” successfulnewsletter applicant will have: Connections newsletter information The excellent written andprovides verbalimportant communication for consumers about MLL and its electricity network, skills and willingness to share including safety advice. An online copy ofinformation Connections canand including learnings with colleagues where be viewed at https://www.marlboroughlines.co.nz/ News/ and when appropriate Download-Connections.aspx a high levelMarlborough of literacyLines withLimited Microsoft suite especially Word1and AlfredExcel, Streetand willingness to Boxcomprehend 144, Blenheim 7240, Zealand learnPO and new New systems quickly Phone: 03 577 and 7007 organisational good analytical, planning Email: info@mll.co.nz skills. www.marlboroughlines.co.nz
For a full job description and to apply for this role please visit our website www.marlboroughlines.co.nz/careers Situations Vacant Or for a recruitment pack email: recruitment@mll.co.nz Ph. (03) 577 7007 Applications close Friday 22 November 2019
Switch on to a new career opportunity
FOOD PROCESS WORKER POSITIONS We have a number of seasonal and full-time ‘Food Process Worker’ positions available for people who enjoy working in a team environment, and have a good work ethic, particularly around attendance. Full training for all positions is available. Mussel Factory • Make good $$$ on contract mussel opening • We are also looking for Packers • Dayshift and Afternoon shift positions available Vegetable Factory • Enjoy working in a processing environment where food safety and team work is important • Dayshift and Nightshift positions available Coolstore/Yard Staff • We are always on the lookout for physically fit people to work in our coldstore • You should have good English and Maths skills, with attention to detail
FACT of the WEEK
The longest wedding veil was longer than 63 football fields!
NEWS TIPS Send your tips to news@blenheimsun.co.nz
Wednesday 72 High Street, Phone 03 577 7868
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The Sun Got an important issue to share with Marlborough?
Text your thoughts to: 027 242 5266
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 579 4870. After Hours Chemists: Springlands Pharmacy: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 6pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am - 5pm, Public Holidays 10am - 5pm. Closed Christmas Day. Ph 578 2271. Community Care Pharmacy: Within the Blenheim Warehouse, open 7 days 9am8pm. Only closed Christmas Day. Lifeline Marlborough: 0800 543354, 24hr helpline. Women’s Refuge and Sexual Violence Support Centre Marlborough: Crisis line number phone 0800 refuge or 03 5779939 . Citizens Advice Bureau: Free, friendly, confidential advice. Mon - Fri 9.30am 4pm. Phone 578 4272. Victim Support: 0800 VICTIM (0800 842 846) Wairau Hospital: Hospital Visiting Hours: Daily 11.30am-7.30pm, children under 12 may visit parents only. Maternity Ward: 10am-noon, 4pm-7pm. Children's Ward: Daily 10am-8pm. Visiting at all times is subject to the discretion of the nurse in charge of the ward. Picton: Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non-urgent 579 4870. Chemist: Picton Healthcare Pharmacy. Ph 573 6420 Mon -Fri 8.30-5.30pm, Sat 9-2pm. Medical Centre Pharmacy, Ph 928 4265, Mon-Fri 8am-5.30pm
Community notices
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION COVID-19 has changed the way we live, work and play. We are all in this together, as a community and NZ wide. What hasn’t changed is our steadfast commitment to honouring our loved ones, respectfully and with dignity. As an essential service we will continue to deliver professional services to be proud of. We are all prepared and have put in place new ways of working that will protect our staff and your family. Our customer service and hygienic standards are of the highest standard. We won’t compromise on this. We may not be able to bring communities physically together for a funeral service, however we can discuss options with you at that time. Our premises are open by appointment only, via a phone call; we are still operating, and staff are available 24 hours seven days a week for all families if the need arises.
• Forklift Operator and General Labourer positions available for day and night shifts • Having a forklift licence will be a definite advantage, but we will provide training for people with the right work ethic Application forms are available from Talley’s Gatehouse, 742 Old Renwick Road, Blenheim All applicants must be legally eligible to work in New Zealand
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We are just a phone call away (03) 578-4719. Be Kind, Be Safe.
www.sowmansfunerals.co.nz
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The Sun
Wednesday April 1, 2020
SPORTS TALK With Jacob Page
Common sense reigns as sport dries up The stubbornness of the International Olympic Committee was admirably foolish at best. The decision to postpone the Tokyo Games until next year amid Coronavirus was the only logical step. I’ve spoken to several Olympic and Paralympic athletes both on and off the record over the past week and they were all in agreeance this was the best decision. Part of me does feel for the athletes who have worked extremely hard over a four-year
cycle to get themselves to peak at the right time but world events dictate we all have to give up something for the greater good. Of course, some lose more than others from this outcome. The likes of two-time medallist Nick Willis, who will be 38 next year and now has to put more kilometres on his legs to prepare for a final tilt at 1500m glory. Mahe Drysdale, a champion rower in his day, is in a similar position as is throwing phenom Valerie Adams, now a Mum faces
similar challenges. Rest assured Tokyo and Japan as a whole, will still put on a spectacular fortnight of competition. It will be just as grandiose as China in 2008 but more to scale for Japan’s smaller population. This enforced lockdown and general uncertainty is daunting at times but when we get out of it, and we will, there will be plenty of sport to watch, that is for sure. The NRL has clearly never planned for a
rainy day and now players are being asked to take a whopping 87 percent paycut just to keep the competition afloat. American sports like the NBA, NHL, and Major League Baseball are all looking at ways to keep their 2020 seasons alive in the coming months while English football is the same. The prospect of a buffet of sport after this pandemic is exciting. As long as we all stay home and stay in our bubble.
Sweating the small stuff With gyms closed and the government ordering people to stay home, many people’s fitness routines have been disrupted. Sun reporter Frances Chin speaks with F45 Blenheim owners Aimee Pickles and AJ Dixon about staying fit during four weeks of lock-down. In response to the question, “is it possible to stay fit during quarantine,” AJ and Aimee give a resounding, “yes!” “Yes. I do think it is possible to stay fit while in quarantine!” AJ says. “The use of equipment is overrated! The greatest tool you can use is your own bodyweight. You also need to make sure that you are surrounding yourself with like-minded people, whether that be in fitness groups or with a small group of friends. They will help you find the motivation to continue to exercises every day.” “It just comes down to finding the thing that works for you, getting and finding your routine so that you are still getting in your session every day.” Aimee says. Aimee says the easiest mistake to make during these four weeks is “disconnecting from your fitness community.” “This will result in lack of accountability and in term, motivation. Plus it’s always better doing things in a group.” Aimee says. “As we are limited to what we can actually do during the day, the biggest mistake I think will be eating too much or snacking more regularly,” AJ adds. “We have to remember that we won’t be as active as we once were so we won’t feel the need to consume as much food as we use to. However, that is going to free up more hours during the day and I think snacking is going to be a big part of people’s day.” For people at home with no gym equipment, AJ and Aimee recommend getting back to body weight exercises, and using household items as a weights. “Start with anything bodyweight, get back to the basics such as squats and pushups,” Aimee says. “Set yourself a challenge around these, like number of reps, or going from push-ups on your knees to push-ups on toes.” “People would be surprised at the amount of exercise you can do with little to no equipment,” AJ says. “Pushups, squats, pull-ups, sit ups…..the list goes on!” “In regards to household items you can use anything and everything,” Aimee adds. “We recently took our F45 community through an ‘at-home’ resistance based session and got them to fill up a backpack that we used
F45 Blenheim owners, Aimee Pickles and AJ Dixon, give advice for staying fit during Lockdown.
as weight for the session. Be creative with what you can find!” “I used a ladder for a workout, and I did front raises to work my shoulders and delts as well as squats and deadlifts. In times like these we really need to prioritise fitness and get creative
with what we can use at home!” AJ continues. Finally, Aimee and AJ encourage families to work out together, “as a way to stay fit and build morale.” “There are so many ways to get your family involved in a session! We have been running
online workouts, and during this time we have seen a number of families doing the workouts with us. Children can always be used as extra resistance for exercises but getting back to basics you can always go for a run or walk as a family.”
The Sun
Wednesday April 1, 2020
Stay safe during this lockdown
Mike Pero Real Estate Ltd. Licensed REA (2008)
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