8 April Blenheim Sun by The Blenheim Sun

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Blenheim Marlborough

April 8, 2020

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Easter delights By Celeste Alexander

Children all over Marlborough will be eagerly counting down the days, hours and minutes to Easter this weekend. Whether it be for an Easter egg hunt in and around their homes, sitting down to a special meal or sharing a prayer with their families (in isolation), Easter will be a welcome distraction from the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Alert Level 4 Lockdown restrictions. Sun publishers, Les and Katrina Whiteside, along with their staff wish everyone a very happy and safe Easter. Continued on page 2. Blenheim sisters, Alexis (2) and Miria (5) Henderson are looking forward to an Easter egg hunt this Sunday. Photo provided.

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The Sun

Wednesday April 8, 2020

How to reach us PUBLISHERS

Les Whiteside

les@blenheimsun.co.nz

Katrina Whiteside

Easter Bunny ‘Essential worker’ Continued from page 1. Children all over Marlborough may have been wondering; will the Easter Bunny be operating during Lockdown? Fortunately our Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, has announced that the Easter Bunny has been listed as an ‘Essential Worker’ and therefore will be allowed to continue its deliveries this weekend. In addition to the Easter Bunny the Tooth Fairy has also been listed so there’s no need to keep that wiggly tooth in place until after Lockdown, simply leave a window open for them both to visit. They will still be adhering to the Government’s advice about wearing gloves and cleaning their hands after visiting each home, so keep an eye out for tiny paw and hand prints on

the bars of soap in your bathrooms. However you decide to celebrate Easter this weekend, remember to stay safe and in your ‘bubble’. While the country sits at 1160 confirmed and probable cases as of yesterday, Marlborough is still fortunate to have only 12 confirmed cases, one of which is a teenager, and six probable. The total for Nelson and Marlborough announced yesterday is now 44 with four new cases. Authorities are reminding people who wish to get out of their houses to exercise to heed the rules set out by Government and stay close to home. Types of exercise Walks and other activities like cycling or scootering are fine, provided you keep a 2-metre distance from anybody outside of your household. Don’t use services like share-bikes

or hire scooters. Stick to simple outdoor exercise, and avoid activities where you can get injured or lost. For example, don’t go swimming, surfing, boating, hunting or tramping. It’s important the emergency services remain available to support the response to COVID-19. Where you should exercise Stay close to home. Enjoy your neighbourhood, but go no further. For example, if you live near a beach, you may go for a walk down to the waterfront. But don’t drive to another suburb to go to the beach. If you have a dog, try walking it around the block instead of driving with it to a park. Staying local ‘Local’ means the area near your home that you regularly visit for essential services. Town dwellers may have a supermarket, pharmacy

or dairy close by. If you live rurally, you may need to drive further. If you do leave your house, you must always keep a 2-metre distance from other people who are not part of your household. If an area is too crowded to keep to a 2-metre space between you and others, go home. Don’t stop and chat, smile and wave instead. Using your car Using private vehicles for transport is allowed. However, you can only travel if you’re: • accessing essential services • shopping for food or medicine • an essential worker travelling to, from, or as part of your essential work. You should only travel in your car with people from your household. Remember, any unnecessary travel may spread COVID-19.

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Local churches plan for Easter By Aimee O’Hagan

With all gatherings banned for the four week isolation period, nearly all community groups have been forced to find alternative means of continuing as usual. This includes Marlborough churches; and with Easter coming up this weekend – one of the biggest religious events of the year – the churches have really had be creative. According to the pastor of Blenheim Baptist Church, Shanan Barnett, the main solution churches have had to not being able to gather each week is to hold live-streamed services. “We are finding that we are engaging with new people through our online presence, and [having] a much wider reach,” Shanan says. “[The Blenheim Baptist Church has had] people tuning in from Blenheim,

Southland, Northland and even the US and UK, some of whom have communicated with us to let us know how helpful it’s been for them in this time.” In Shanan’s opinion, we are privileged to live in a time where physical separation no longer means social separation. “Although nothing can truly replace face to face connection, our people and our churches are doing a pretty good job of making do,” he says. Having had to cancel the usual combined Easter service held annually at Blenheim’s ASB Theatre the Blenheim Combined Ministers Association has put their heads together to come up with another idea of celebrating Easter this year. “We are doing an online alternative for Good Friday that will include representatives from several churches featuring music, spoken word and

original compositions to tell the Good Friday story,” Shanan says. “This year’s title for the event is “The Cross has the Final Word” and will be published on the Elim Christian Centre page and shared to all of the local church Facebook pages. “We’ve [also] started a daily photo challenge to help our members feel part of what other members are doing each day, and in preparation for Easter Sunday we are challenging homes to take a portion of the Resurrection Sunday story and encouraging them to present it in a creative way, skit or song or similar. “These will be stitched together and used as part of our stream somewhere on Sunday.” Anybody is welcome to tune in to the live-streamed services and are encouraged to reach out to the churches if feeling isolated and alone.

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Wednesday April 8, 2020

Family spots uncommon white Swallow By Celeste Alexander

The first day of isolation for one Waihopai Valley family was particularly memorable. Nadia Crighton and her children were thrilled to spot an unusual bird when enjoying their daily river walk, and according to a local bird enthusiast it’s not rare, just common with a rare look. Nadia says the family spends a lot of time watching birds so when they spotted a white bird that looked a lot like the common Swallow, it was “truly something special”. “I’ve never seen a bird like this before.” she says. “Every time we go down now he/she is there happy to flutter around us with the large flock of Swallows, swooping low on the river catching bugs. “It’s quite inquisitive and seems to enjoy our company. “We love Swallows as they tend to nest in our garage so the children adore watching them grow and then take off. They are such impressive flyers and are super quick, darting and dashing so close you can almost feel their wings on your face. “So when we spotted this white bird we knew it was special,” she says. Nadia decided to take her camera on one of their daily walks to photograph it. “It was hard to photograph as they move so quickly. I took around 300 images of the bird that day and only managed to get a few where you could make it out perfectly. “It was a very special moment, one that reminds us of

A note from the publishers.... The past two weeks in Lockdown have possibly been the strangest most of us have lived through. For some also the longest, as our way of life has changed dramatically. For now at least. It’s important to be positive, focus on what we do have instead of what we don’t. Despite feeling a little nervous and worried for the future we must remember we have much to be grateful for. The isolation of working remotely has been challenging but inspiring. Our region is surely one of the better places in the world to find ourselves ‘virtually isolated’. We find ourselves thankful for technology at this time, allowing us to still publish our paper online. Take the time also to appreciate family, flatmates, pets - whoever is sharing your bubble - at home or online. This important moment in time will be looked back on for years to come. Find strength in each other. Til next week, enjoy reading The Sun. Our talented team have enjoyed putting this together for you. Les & Katrina.

A Waihopai Valley photographed this uncommon bird which is likely to be an uncommon Leucistic Welcome Swallow.

how spectacular and beautiful Mother Nature is. It’s something we will remember forever,” she says. After sending some photographs to the Sun, they were then forwarded on to local bird enthusiast Will Parsons to see if he could identify the species. Will and his wife Rose operate Driftwood Retreat & Eco-Tours in Marlborough. Will is an avid birdlife photographer and often shares his images of rare and uncommon birds with the Sun.

Will posted the photos on a New Zealand birding site which was viewed and while the photos did not provide enough detail to draw an exact identification one thing was clear, it’s not a new species just a common one with a rare look. One person speculated that the bird was to likely be a Leucistic Welcome Swallow, while another thought the presence of a red throat in one of the photos was indicative that it’s not leucism, but rather albinism.

“Albinism does not affect the carotenoid pigments such as the reds and yellows,” they say. Regardless, it is an uncommon sight and one that has made headlines in other parts of New Zealand in previous years. A similar bird was spotted in a Whangarei garden over a year ago. Robert Webb from Whangarei Native Bird Recovery Centre was reported to say it was not impossible but quite uncommon to see a White Swallow.

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The Sun

Wednesday April 8, 2020

inbrief

The Sun

Correction Last week’s article about respected journalist, Phillip Campbell, who passed away on March 25, had a quote in it referring to a funeral. There has been no funeral and the quote was incorrect. The article has been amended online and we apologise for the error. Phillip’s family wishes to advise that a celebration of his life will be held at a later stage.

Marlborough Electric Power Trust Election results The results for the Marlborough Electric Power Trust 2020 Biennial Election were announced last Monday, and it’s business as usual for the existing trustees who were re-elected. Nicki Stretch, Malcolm Aitken and Ross Inder have slotted back into the three vacancies, while Cathie Bell and David Oddie were not able to pull in enough votes to secure a position. The return percentage for the election was 21.87percent (5636 valid voting papers) of which just over 82percent were voted by post, and just over 17percent voted online.

Barry Holmwood, manager of Geoffrey T Sowman Funeral Directors. File photo

Funeral restrictions during Lockdown

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what’s cooking Spiced Carrot and Lentil Soup Prep: 15mins Ingredients: • 2 tsp cumin seeds • pinch chilli flakes • 2 tbsp olive oil • 600g carrots, washed and coarsely grated (no need to peel) • 140g split red lentils • 1L hot vegetable stock (from a cube is fine) • 125ml milk • plain yogurt and naan bread, to serve

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manager, Barry Holmwood, who says thanks to technology there are still ways for families to spend time with their loved ones. “It’s trying times for everyone and I really feel for the families we are working with,” he says. “When grieving for a loved one people attending a funeral service like to hug, kiss and share their emotions which is hugely important for the grief process, but sadly in this environment we have to look at different ways to operate within the strict guidelines of isolation.” Funeral directors are considered an ‘Essential Service’ so when a person passes away funeral directors will receive a call from a family, rest home, Hospice or hospital and will arrange for the person to be transferred, following any procedures from where the deceased is being transferred from. Barry says before the transfer they will find out first if the person had symptoms of COVID-19 for everyone’s protection, then continue with the protection of partial or full PPE gear, depending on the information received. “Once we have the deceased in our care we talk to the family regarding the next stage of the journey,” he says. “This is most likely over the phone as we need to keep within our bubbles. But this is where technology is great; we can also use Zoom, and sometimes other types of technology to connect with families. “We have an open and honest discussion with the family to find out what we can do for the deceased and family, we discuss burial and cremation options, plus much more to gather up all the thoughts and feelings of that family, to help and support them through that sad time. Guidelines from the Ministry of Health now allows families from the same ‘bubble’ (of the deceased) to go to the funeral home and spend time with their loved one. People from the same bubble can also be in attendance at the burial (subject to Council permission) or cremation, however for everyone’s safety physical distancing must still be observed, Barry says. “If families from the same bubble wish to view their loved one we have a area here which they can use and using technology like Zoom, or one Room other family members

can also view and spend time with their loved one. “This way it’s still involving other family who cannot physically be there.” Barry acknowledges that friends and family of the deceased might struggle with the notion that they cannot grieve together in person. “It is sad and we really feel for families. It may not be the real thing but we will work with what we have. Families can come together to hold services and memorials at a later date but until then there are other things they can do. “Light a candle at home, share special memories within their bubble, start writing memories of your loved one, look through photos and even start a slideshow to relive memories and have it ready for when we come out of Lockdown and use these in a memorial service at our chapel or other venue. “It’s important for healing to be able to still talk to one another – laughter, tears, and talking about that person is so important.” Barry says Geoffrey T Sowman Funeral Directors can also hold a person’s ashes until a memorial service can be held, or casket for a burial at a later date after lockdown if required. “And if a family would like a form of service we could say some words or hold a farewell committal for them. It’s important that the person is acknowledged and that’s something we are happy to do. And perhaps after the lock down a Memorial Service with a Minister or celebrant with all family being involved. “This is something I was able to do for a family recently, with a short farewell committal, we recorded it and I sent the recording to the family afterwards which they were really happy to receive. They also sent that recording to other family members to watch and arranged a time so the family watched it all together at different locations. This helped this one family, but this is what we do at Geoffrey T Sowman, care and support for all our families. “We are open to hearing suggestions from families and we will do what we can within the restrictions. I encourage anyone who has questions to call us,” Barry says.

The Sun

Wednesday April 8, 2020

He korero no te Kaunihera o Wairau NEWS FROM THE MARLBOROUGH DISTRICT COUNCIL

Annual Plan update – Have your say Council has released its 2020-21 Annual Plan Update and Marlburians are encouraged to have their say. This year’s plan outlines a range of measures to help Marlborough get through the COVID-19 crisis, including a proposal that this year’s rates increase will be less than the 2.2% local government cost index (inflation) estimate. For the average Marlborough property, 2.2% equates to about $1.10 a week. Mayor John Leggett says while it’s disappointing that we won’t be able to continue with some of the new initiatives proposed in February, the interests of the whole Marlborough community must now take priority.” “As a direct result of COVID-19 we are setting aside $1.2 million to ensure community organisations and our wonderful community facilities such as Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000 can remain viable. The funds come from our Emergency Events Reserve and have no impact on rates.” “Aside from expenditure on roads, sewerage, water treatment and water supply, the Council has earmarked funds for the new District Library and Art Gallery, new sports

facilities at A&P Park and Lansdowne Park, plus waste disposal and flood protection initiatives. These capital projects are outlined in the Annual Plan Update available online and I encourage everyone to have a read and give us their feedback.” Although Council is not suggesting any major new proposals this year, it would like feedback from Marlburians. Council will consider submissions and make its final decisions in June. So have your say at: www.marlborough.govt. nz/your-council/have-your-say-consultations Submissions must be received by 5.00 pm on Monday 4 May 2020.

Marlborough District Libraries direct to you Marlborough District Libraries may be closed but there are thousands of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, newspapers and more for you online. If you’re not already a library member, you can now sign up for a digital only membership online. This new option comes in the wake of the COVID-19 lockdown and allows new members to access library e-resources for one year, compared to the normal online registration which is limited to two weeks. So if you need something to help you pass the time during this difficult time, please sign up today by

visiting: www.marlboroughlibraries. govt.nz/about-the library/ news?item=id:29h7s3at917q9smmi8w2 People also have the opportunity to access ancestry.com from home during the lockdown period. This is an online resource that allows people to search their family history and genealogy. Library members can access this resource via the Marlborough District Libraries website, using their library ID and pin number. Remember, if you currently have items on your library account you don’t need to worry about them being overdue or fines. Your items will be automatically extended.

Keep dogs in your bubble and on a lead Whether you’ve got two legs or four, if you’re out exercising with your family, all members, including your dog, need to stay in your ‘bubble’. While dogs are very unlikely to contract COVID-19, they can carry it about with them on their coat if someone with the virus touches them. Keep your family safe and be considerate of others when out walking or running and keep your dog on a lead at all times. This includes in parks and spaces usually designated as off-lead areas. If you are planning on walking your dog from your house to one of Marlborough’s dog-friendly spaces for some exercise, please bring your own doggy doo bag to eliminate the need to touch the bag

The Council’s Civil Defence and Emergency Management Welfare team is supporting the regional response to COVID-19. The Welfare team has been working hard over the last two weeks for those in the community who need extra help with emergency accommodation or basic supplies. Over the last couple of weeks the team has helped a number of people to find accommodation and has worked with the Police to relocate non-resident campers to suitable self-contained accommodation and motels. The number of campers in the region has reduced significantly. Places have also been found for some of our homeless. These efforts are both for their own health protection and also the health of the wider public. People who need extra help or advice should call 03 520 7400 or email welfare@marlboroughcdem.co.nz If you have symptoms that could be related to COVID-19 please call the dedicated Healthline on 0800 358 5453.

Economic development and business support

Council is working alongside the Government’s business support programme across the Top of the South. That support includes: • Providing wage and leave subsidies, unemployment benefits and other types of financial support including tax relief. • Managing the registration of essential businesses and their compliance. • Providing additional regional business support services via MBIE’s Regional Business Partnership. Marlborough is helping the Government by signposting businesses to the right place for business support, and also by providing two-way information between government and the regions. In the Top of the South a number of organisations are working together to ensure businesses receive the right information in a timely

manner. Council also funds key partners who have been directly involved in the COVID-19 response: • Destination Marlborough has provided advice, support and information to the tourism sector. • Business Trust Marlborough is the lead for business mentors in Marlborough and has over 50 mentors. Mentors have been in touch with their mentees to offer support. The Council is also beginning the process to work on an economic recovery plan in partnership with Marlborough’s key industries.

Council’s essential services

Council is maintaining essential services, such as drinking water, waste management, sewerage and effluent disposal, road maintenance and emergency management. Keeping Port Marlborough and Marlborough Airport operational is also critical. Council will also continue to provide customer services through our call centre, flood protection and maintenance, environmental monitoring, harbour safety, health compliance, resource and building consents and biosecurity. Support functions such as IT, finance, HR, payroll and communications are also being maintained. Staff in non-critical areas may be asked to work in a critical area if required by either sickness or community need. An example is a secondment to the Emergency Management Team to assist with welfare support to the community. The Council’s office in Seymour Street, Blenheim is closed, as is the Picton Library and Service Centre. Cheque or cash payments can be made via the secure drop box at the Seymour St. building front doors. Please phone the Council first on 03 520 7400 or email mdc@marlborough.govt.nz if you require assistance.

Positive Ageing – look out for each other

dispensers. This will help to further reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Remember to practice physical distancing of two metres and if you’re unwell, please stay at home. We all need to work together if we want to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Community News – Don’t deliver items to op shops during lockdown Please do not drop off any items to your local op shop during the current lockdown. For health and security reasons, anything left outside op shops will be taken straight to the landfill. Please save

Council support to get Marlborough through COVID-19

any donations for delivery to charity shops once we move out of the lockdown period. But remember, all items you are planning on donating will need to be thoroughly cleaned.

www.marlborough.govt.nz

As we all continue to follow the Government’s directive of staying at home to keep ourselves safe and reduce the spread of COVID-19, some older people in our community may be feeling particularly isolated. During this time of uncertainty and physical distancing, it is normal for older people to feel distressed and experience symptoms of stress. If you know someone who is living alone, whether it be your neighbour, a friend or a family member, please reach out to them. Call them for a chat and ask them if they need any help getting their groceries or medication. A daily call will lift their spirits during this period of self-isolation. Or you could pop a note in your neighbours’ letterboxes with your contact details and an offer of help. That way they can call you if they don’t have family or

Street Address: Phone: 03 520 7400 15 Seymour Street Fax: 03 520 7496 Email: mdc@marlborough.govt.nz Blenheim 7201 New Zealand

younger friends nearby. If you’re older and you have to visit the supermarket remember to keep two metres apart from other people and follow good hygiene rules, including washing your hands and covering your mouth or sneezing into your elbow. If you need a prescription, call your doctor and they will advise you if you should pick it up from the pharmacy, or it can be delivered to your doorstep. If you’re not sure who to contact for help you can call the free Government helpline on 0800 779 997 (8.00 am to 1.00 am, 7 days a week). If you would like some local Marlborough help or advice please call 03 520 7400 or email welfare@ marlboroughcdem.co.nz If you’re feeling unwell please call your GP before you visit, or call Healthline on 0800 358 5453.

The Sun

Wednesday April 8, 2020

Sun readers have their say... from their lockdown bubble!

Q: What’s the first thing you want to go out and do when Lockdown lifts?

Milinda Higgins Blenheim The first thing I will do is go visit all my family and give them the biggest hug ever!

Khloe Warner Blenheim The first thing I want to do when Lockdown is over is go and see family.

George Aitken Blenheim Have all my friends over for a dinner party.

Check or install smoke alarms now By Celeste Alexander

At a time when people are in isolation and are working from home or using more devices during the day, having working smoke alarms throughout the home is paramount, principal rural fire officer for the Marlborough Kaikoura Rural Fire District, John Foley says. “People are working on computers from home and with additional people in the house during the day we want to make sure people are not overloading electrical outlets. The more you stack into these outlets, the higher the fire risk is. “We are also reminding people not to leave cooking unattended. It’s easy to get distracted when you have kids at home or someone is calling out to you but unattended cooking is a common way for house fires to start,” he says. With families at home in isolation for four weeks, children can become bored and if lighters, matches and even magnifying glasses are left around, it could be

Miria Chin Blenheim I can’t wait to go to the beach or the hills, and get away from the suburb bubble.

Daniel Brunel Blenheim A drive to the beach to spend some time in the surf.

Trina Russell Blenheim I would go and have a cuppa with my Mum.

Letters to the editor Letters on issues of community interest are welcomed. Guidelines are that they should be no longer than 150 words. 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 send a fax to phone 577 -7863. Please note that your name and street address MUST be provided with emails.

Exercise in your own area an opportunity for curiosity to turn into a potentially deadly situation, John adds. “Children might become inquisitive so make sure you put these things up and away so that kids can’t experiment with fire. “It’s also the ideal time to check all smoke alarms in your home by pressing the button to see if the batteries need replacing. “And if you have a smoke alarm still sitting in its packaging up on a cabinet, use this time to install them. “Smoke alarms are deemed essential items so if you need a new one, there are avenues to purchase them like supermarkets and Mitre 10 stores,” John says.

We are all very aware of your need to exercise, keep fitness up but that has to be within your own area. That is why you are seeing videos of athletes managing their needs at home and in the case of some that were or was going to an event, they are running around their own home for the distance they were going to do. They are the wise ones of staying close to home, keeping them and their families safe plus emergency staff volunteers safe as the likelihood of being called out for you in your

own area is much reduced. NZ Police made public the policies they have adopted for moving out or in of your area. Find it on the COVID-19 website or NZ Police website. Do you want to join the ranks of the Minister Health who travelled in a vehicles to get his fitness fix? The more we all do what is needed to beat this virus, the earlier we can all get back to work and/or get back to some normality in our fitness regime. Look after yourself and

others. We are all in this together. Public Events: No decision has been made yet to postpone, cancel or have our public events. We are watching very closely the Governments rules. While we are not accepting online entries yet, no damage done in refunds etc but we are ready to pounce to have the events should the rules be relaxed and people are wanting a challenge so it is a case of “Watch this space”. Marlborough Harriers

Kindness means everything

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In the past nearly two weeks since the county was put into Lockdown I have visited the supermarket three times. People are in general very respectful of other shoppers and the staff except for a few who allow their impatience and frustrations to take over. It’s a tough time for all and I for one am very grateful of the measures taken to protect the community. The supermarkets do look strange with their plastic screens and

stickers showing where you must stand while lining up at the checkout. But it’s for our own good. So please show kindness and patience towards these people who are working in our essential services. They do not deserve to be yelled at or treated badly. I’m sure they wish they could be home with their families where they are safe and not in contact with people every day.

txt talk

The Sun

And while I’m at it, to those who insist on still walking down the Taylor River Bank and stopping to chat with one another – stop being so selfish! Follow the rules. Four weeks is not that long and if you do your part by isolating yourself correctly, we will be able to get back to our jobs and lives. Safe at home

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The Sun

Wednesday April 8, 2020

The Sun

Wednesday April 8, 2020

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The Sun

Wednesday April 8, 2020

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Wednesday April 8, 2020

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Supermarket strategy Times sure are interesting. I never thought planning my outings to the supermarket would ever be so strategic. Hoping I picked the right day and time to avoid any of the Easter chaos.

Difficult times They say when we face difficult times, just know that challenges are not sent to destroy us. They are sent to strengthen us.

Cover up I can’t believe the number of people in general that aren’t covering up whilst going into public areas like supermarkets etc. It’s less than 50% that do by the looks. C’mon people, get with the program. This shit kills, maybe not you but maybe someone you love. Cover up & leave it behind.

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of the week

Happy Easter Happy Easter to everyone. Have fun with your families or whoever is in your bubble. Chocolate still available I’m sure or find your baking skills. 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

Missing sport Very much missing all the local sport and international games of every code. Can their seasons restart or can they even survive? I really hope so.

Isolate the region I wonder why our bloody mayors do nothing! The West Coast could be shut at all the passes, only B train freight trucks, changing tractor units at the passes, nobody else in, perfect isolation. Trailers only on the ferry, no passengers, tractor units swap at Ward, Murchison and Pelorous. No one else through. Too easy to protect and indeed isolate our region! Inaction causes death by Cindy by vicarious liability.

Restaurant owner launches online vouchers to keep afloat during Lockdown By Celeste Alexander

A local restaurant owner is calling upon the community to help them to keep afloat until the Government’s Alert 4 Lockdown has lifted. Bu-nga Krataitong and her husband Nuttavut Rodsienglum own Blenheim’s popular restaurants, Bamboo Garden and The Lemongrass. Both were successfully operating their online ordering system at the beginning of the Alert Level announcements until they, along with many other businesses, had to close their doors due to restrictions. Thinking of ways to help keep their businesses afloat during the Lockdown, Bu-nga has introduced an online voucher system which will not only benefit their customers, but also help them to continue paying their business costs. How it works: Customers can purchase a voucher and pay online, and Bu-nga will email the voucher to them. It’s simple and contactless. And to thank customers for their support, Bu-nga is offering a generous 20percent discount off each voucher. “For example, if you buy a $100

voucher you only pay $80, but still benefit from having the full value to spend with us after the Lockdown lifts,” she says. “Then when we can begin to operate our takeaway and restaurant services again, you can use your vouchers with us. “It’s a tough time for many businesses but with the community’s support we can continue to pay our bills until we can be operating again. “Thank you, we really appreciate it,” she adds. The couple has owned Bamboo Garden Restaurant and ChaiYo Café for seven years. They launched their newest restaurant, The Lemongrass, five years ago which focuses on fresh, lean and green. Specialising in authentic Asian cuisine, they look forward to welcoming back their customers. To purchase vouchers for any of the three establishments visit either of the websites for Bamboo Garden Restaurant or The Lemongrass where you can select the amount for your voucher and purchase online. www.bamboogarden.co.nz or www.thelemongrass.co.nz PBA

Bu-nga Krataitong owns Bamboo Garden Restaurant, The Lemongrass and Chai-Yo Cafe, and has introduced an online voucher system to help keep her establishments afloat.

The Sun

Wednesday April 8, 2020

Farming news

Vintage 2020 will be ‘memorable’ Much like others in the region, the 2020 vintage has been a very different experience for the team at Yealands who say they have adapted “incredibly well”. When the news came that the country was moving to Alert Level 4 and that New Zealand was entering a lockdown period, Yealands was around 10percent of the way through harvest. “We quickly had to rethink how we approached the balance of harvest, taking into consideration the new COVID-19 related guidelines from the government, with our priority now focused on reducing any potential contamination or spread of COVID-19,” Yealands CEO, Tiffani Graydon says. “And as I’m sure the team will tell you, it’s no easy feat to conduct a harvest while social distancing! “We implemented some effective ways to do this such as having our teams colour coded into ‘bubbles’ so they can be quickly and easily identified. “Each team stays with their colours during shift and during their breaks; these ‘bubbles’ are effectively their

The Yealands 2020 harvest will be memorial for more reasons than one. Photo supplied.

new families for the duration of harvest,” Tiffani says. A COVID-19 pastoral care was established to ensure that the harvest teams are fed, watered, cared for and some light entertainment is provided for their down-time onsite. Board games have made a real resurgence during these unusual times, she says. “We’re now about two-thirds of the way through harvest and whilst it may be said that it’s been the most challenging yet, the true spirit of comradery, determination and commitment from our team is both humbling and evidence of the strong ‘team-first’ culture within our business. “They are all superstars, working as hard as ever, still smiling, keeping their distance, staying safe and well, and bringing in the grapes.” This year the weather has certainly played ball, with a long, dry period in the lead up to harvest - sunny days and cool nights; exactly what the vines thrive on. For multiple reasons, vintage 2020 will be a memorable and very special vintage for many.

Unknown vehicle ‘lurking’ in Port Underwood area Marlborough’s Rural Police have been out about speaking with rural residents as normal, but last week while in Port Underwood near Hakahaka Bay, the locals reported a suspicious vehicle. A vehicle with a single occupant in it has allegedly been lurking around the area, and seen on multiple occasions but is not known to normally be there. The vehicle is described as: Nissan Navara Ute Possibly a 2005 model Mid Blue colour. No dog box or anything distinctive.

Registration Number similar to but not this one : GMB147 Driver described as: Male about 45-years-old with full beard. Has a small white dog with him. He is said to avoid eye contact and doesn’t wave out and takes off when approached. Police ask that if you see it please try and get the registration number. If safe to do so, ask what the person is doing. If you are the owner of this vehicle please contact the Blenheim Police and ask for Constable Reidie or leave a message for him.

If you can think it, we can help you make it. Talk to an ITM sales rep today and let’s get it underway.

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Wednesday April 8, 2020

The Sun

Just keep creating art By Frances Chin

Marlborough artist Tui Johnson says that she remembers “preferring to stand at [her] kindergarten easel than play outside”. Raised by her father who was a potter, and her mother who was an illustrator, Tui has always been artistically minded. She had her first exhibition when she was 16, and left school soon after to paint murals— specifically, different scenes in a store she later worked at. Tui then travelled, living in Christchurch, Melbourne, and Cromwell. She arrived in Marlborough two years ago “by accident,’ and has lived here since. Tui enjoys Marlborough’s scenery, and the dry weather as it “is great for drying [her] work.” “I love the hills around here - especially around the golden hour. I ended up here by accident, but it’s becoming home.” Tui creates art within a range of mediums, such as; paint on canvas, clay, and digital. “I don’t actually think I have a particular style,” Tui says. “I have people comment I’m quite diverse.” “I don’t have a favourite medium. All the mediums have different purposes and it depends on what I want to convey.” “I have a few projects on the go. Painting, pottery, digital art— if I get sick of something I put it on hold and do something else.” Tui is a member of the Marlborough Community Potters group, and uses the kiln. She says it’s been a great way to meet people in Marlborough.

“My dad’s a potter, so it’s always been a part of my life. Six months ago I caught the bug. I’m still learning really. When looking for inspiration, Tui draws on reading materials, and dreams; things that have “nostalgic significance.” “Stuff that makes me feel good. Not anything political. I’m trying to take people somewhere they’d rather be, to create a good feeling. Not anything controversial.” “A lot of my work is contract work. The clients give me an idea of what they want, and then I build around that.”

“I love the hills around here especially around the golden hour.” Working as an artist during Lockdown, Tui says her days are more or less the same. “I generally work from home anyway so I have to create my own structure around my day. I’m used to having the house to myself, so it’s finding that balance with distractions. Mostly it’s easier for me because I can’t leave and go around.” Finally, to aspiring artists, Tui gives the following advice. “I would say just keep doing it. Share your work with artists you admire and ask for critique. When they give critique; take the bits you like from it and leave the rest.”

Artist Tui Johnson with her work. These paintings are part of a series called "Big questions on small canvas”. Photo provided.

Pet selfies Nick Chin exercising with the family dog, Mischief.

Brea and Riley pose for their pet selfie. The photo was sent in by Sharon du Preez

Ginny Warren (left) and Jackie Aitken with Archie the dog.

Smig Wigs chilling in her favourite backyard chair. Taylor-Rose Blick (11) with family dog Lilly.

The Sun

Wednesday April 8, 2020

MINUTES WITH

It’s a good time to get out and tidy up and weed all your gardens plus mow the lawns.

GARDENING THIS WEEK Wake up call: By Wally Richards Here we are into the first few days of lockdown and likely already early signs of cabin fever are starting to show. It’s a good time to get out and tidy up and weed all your gardens plus mow the lawns. Weeding: Start at one end and work your way through each garden. There are two ways you can do this one is with a sharp carving knife where you cut under the soil slicing the weeds roots off below soil level and then leaving the foliage on the bare soil to be absorbed back in. This causes little soil disturbance which can be beneficial and the weeds become food for the soil life and plants. For very small weeds you can just scrap the surface of the soil to eliminate them. The above is best for established gardens such as ornamentals, flower gardens, perennial and annuals as well as trees and shrubs. In the vegetable garden the same can be applied but I prefer another method which is using a hand trowel or hand fork. Here we are going to disturb the soil around our vegetable plants and obviously slice through some of their roots. Roots are the same as branches on a plant nip the end off a branch and it will make new side shoot branches back to the trunk. Slice a root and it will

make a lot more rootlets off the root. More roots make for greater collection of moisture and nutrients and the plant grow bigger faster. One of the reasons older gardeners hoe up around their vegetable plants it stimulates growth. Even the beneficial fungi in the soil have to regrow from their damaged filaments. The microbes in the soil will also benefit from the loosening up of the soil and the oxygen that can get in through soil movement. Weeds that are lifted in this manner should have the dirt shaken off the roots and then laid also onto the soil to be absorbed back in. You can however cut the roots off the base of the weed so there is less chance of re-establishing. Once you have weeded you can check your plants and in the case of flowering plants dead head them. This means cutting the spent flowers off the plant which encourages them to flower again because all the flower plants want to do is reach maturity, flower and produce seeds so they will live on for eternity through their prodigy. Removing the spent flowers make them try again to set seed.. Also you may want to tidy up some plants, remove yellow or

diseased leaves, check leaves for insect pests under the leaves if found either remove the leaves affected if they are lower ones and seal the leaves in a plastic bag. Alternatively spray with my Super Neem Oil under and over the foliage late in the day. Even this action of spraying the Neem Oil over plants such as brassicas that have caterpillar damage you will notice within a couple of days strong new growth. Why? Cause for one thing the plant does not have to use energy to protect itself from damage so puts that energy into new growth. Also the life blood is no long been sucked out of the plant from pests feeding on it. The Neem Oil has also some food and fungicide benefits as well which improves the plants wellbeing. Likely you will notice powdery mildew on some of your plants such as pumpkins and pansies. Spray the foliage with the Super Neem Oil and they will return to green very quickly which means they can carry on gathering energy from the sun instead of dying so quickly. Add some Raingard to the Neem Oil so it does not dilute or wash off in the rain or with your watering. P roblems? R i ng me at 0800 466464.

Jacob Page Senior reporter Blenheim Sun  What food do you crave most often? I love raspberries or a good eye fillet medium rare steak with a mushroom sauce.  When you have had a bad day, what do you do to feel better? I really enjoy listening to podcasts or an audiobook.  What was the last photo you took? I took a photo of my partner Liz and I at the Queen and Adam Lambert concert on the Gold Coast.  What’s one thing on your bucket list? Attending an Olympic Games would be something on the bucket list. Certainly for the sport but even an opening ceremony would be a spectacle.  What thing do you really wish you could buy right now? I’ve been hunting for many years to try to find a 1996 All Blacks jersey. That team was the one I fell in love with as a seven-year-old so to find that with the Canterbury Clothing Company logo on one side and Steinlager on the other with a white collar, that’d be great.

 What is the best or worst purchase you’ve ever made? My house, I really enjoy my own space so to have my own piece of the world that is all mine is something I cherish.  Who has been the biggest inspiration in your life? Probably my Grandad. I find I have a few of his positive traits and I find myself thinking what would he do in certain situations.  What’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever been? In terms of a sporting venue it’s the Adelaide Oval. In terms of place I’d say Vancouver is beautiful.  Favourite programme currently watching? Two I’m currently watching. I love The Crown on Netflix. Watched the entire third season in one day. Also Frasier is a series I watch and re-watch.  If you had to flee the country, where would you choose to live? I love the Gold Coast of Australia but if pressed I would go with Canada.

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The Sun

Wednesday April 8, 2020

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...

Annabel Trends reusable bags To enter into the draw to win this prize, email your name and contact to celeste@blenheimsun.co.nz Congratulations to last week’s winner; Sue Norrish. You can collect your prize when the Sun office re-opens.

Region still in total fire ban - no burning! By Celeste Alexander

Principal rural fire officer for the Marlborough Kaikoura Rural Fire District, John Foley, is reminding the community that there is still a total fire ban for the whole of Marlborough. “We will stay in a total fire ban for some time until the Awatere and Clarence gets more rain, then there will be a blanket lift for Marlborough and Kaikoura. “We are asking people not to burn and to play by the rules. There are areas which have received rain and have greened up but people are ignoring the ban and choosing to have a fire because it’s green. “The area south of here is still extremely dry and if we partially lifted the ban it will

cause confusion, so we are sticking with the total ban. “People are not to be burning unless they are using authorised fire types like barbecues and pizza ovens, but no rubbish or incinerators,” John says. Even though there has been a nationwide decrease in fire callouts during the Lockdown period there’s still the risk of structural fires or events in and around the home, John says. “With the Lockdown there are now additional people in the home all of the time, so we are asking people to stick to the rules and be vigilant,” he says. There are authorised fire types which can be used for cooking apparatus, so for more information visit www. checkitsalright.nz

A global pandemic ‘be more like the Kiwis’ By Frances Chin

New Zealand is currently reaching the mid-point of its four weeks of Lockdown. As Kiwis practice social distancing and stay home, it is time to look to other countries and see the extent they are going to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In the United Kingdom, there are currently 41,903 cases of COVID-19 positives as of April 4. The UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, has ordered a three week Lockdown as of March 23 to slow down infection. Legal researcher, Rhiannon Gibbs-Harris, is a New Zealander who is working in London. Rhiannon is currently self-isolating with her three flatmates in her apartment in Central London. “We have been in ‘full lockdown’ since Monday,” says Rhiannon. “So three days, but I have been working from home for a week.” Rhiannon says that the UK Government’s COVID-19 counter-measures were less than effective. “The government wasn’t particularly good at communicating with the public, so it recommended that we do things but didn’t necessarily follow through with them. For instance, Boris Johnson recommended that pubs shut but didn’t force them to shut until later. “At the moment, I only leave the house for groceries or for my daily exercise. It’s such a shame because it had been such awful weather before quarantine but now it’s sunny and mild. “I think New Zealand has been much faster at dealing with [COVID-19,]” Rhiannon says. Another person dealing with the UK COVID-19 crisis is Katrina Steinman, a Canadian secondary

Secondary school teacher Katrina Steinman looks out the window of her London, East Dulwich apartment to the empty street below. Photo provided

school teacher working in West London. Katrina says the main issue with the coronavirus pandemic in the UK is that people are still going outside. “I went to the park the other day and couldn’t move for the amount of people out and about. It was absolutely ridiculous. “People aren’t taking [the pandemic] very seriously at all. It’s concerning.” Katrina, like Rhiannon, blames the

Government’s lack of response for people’s actions. “Boris Johnson has been very vague about what people are meant to be doing so people think it’s okay to be outside. It’s like a holiday to them.” When told about New Zealand’s response to COVID-19, and our level-4 Lockdown, Katrina was very impressed. “People need to stay inside, and be more like the Kiwis.”

DIY – Keeping Safe With many New Zealand homeowners now having ample time to complete those jobs that need doing around the home, Cowan Building has some top safety tips to help avid, Do It Yourselves, during lockdown from COVID-19. “There is no doubt that many Kiwis will be dusting off the paintbrushes and screwdrivers and getting stuck-in during this current lockdown,” Clayton Cowan from Cowan Building says. “However, it’s really important that homeowners take care with any DIY projects at this time.” According to ACC, in 2019 more than 1.3 million injuries occurred in and around the home, with gardening and DIY activities accounting for 96,782 of those claims. With the current COVID-19 pandemic in full swing, it’s important that people keep safe. “Now is the not the time to end up in the hospital with a DIY injury,” Clayton recommends. “It’s really important that kiwis keep safe to keep the strain off our medical industry, so only tackle the sensible DIY and

leave the rest to the experts.” Top tips for DIY • Wear protective gear at all times • Keep all chemicals and paint out of reach of children • Be ladder safe • Ensure good ventilation when painting or using chemicals • Leave the big jobs for another day • Do not undertake any electric or plumbing work unless you are qualified • Slow down, asses the risk and take your time planning “Ladders are a big one,” Clayton says. “It’s really important you keep safe when using a ladder or attempting to reach and work in any high places like rooftops.” Some basic ladder safety include: • Keep your hips square with the ladder and don’t reach too far to the left or right • Have someone spot you at the bottom and secure the ladder • Never sit or stand on the paint shelf • Don’t lean a closed step-ladder up against the wall and climb it, it will slide from underneath you.

• It’s recommended to never stand above the 3rd highest step • Always remove the ladder when not in use Safe DIY Now is a great time to get in the garden, fix-up those fences, getting outside furniture up to scratch and protecting the deck for winter. Even consider a lick of paint on the walls. Basic DIY will help keep you busy and also offer a feeling of accomplishment, but be safe. “If you are not a plumber or electrician say away from those types of fixes and call in the experts when you can,” Clayton says. “Home insurance policies do not take lightly to DIY work that could lead to a possible insurance claim.” It’s also not advisable to start smashing out walls or pulling down the bathroom. “You don’t know what is lurking behind those 20year old tiles, and it could be opening a pandora’s box,” Clayton warns. “So it’s best to keep your DIY projects simple and affordable at this time.”

The Sun

Wednesday April 8, 2020

We want to tell you a story... This story is about you and us and how we’re in this together. Your local Blenheim Sun newspaper since 2002. Our stories inform our community about what matters. Our stories also entertain, enlighten and inspire, forming the fabric of our community. We can tell this story best because our employees are part of the community too. We are your friends and neighbours.

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Wednesday April 8, 2020

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Wednesday April 8, 2020

Public Notices

BRUNO PAINTING AND WATERBLASTING Rai Valley based will travel anywhere in the Sounds ph 022 064 6953

URGENT services

Got an important issue to share with Marlborough?

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.

Text your thoughts to: 027 242 5266

Clothing Alterations and Repairs Nulook Quality Tailoring at competitive prices Same day service Available

Ph/Txt Christine 021703020

FACT of the WEEK

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

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Send your tips to news@blenheimsun.co.nz

Coca-Cola was the first soft drink in space

Wednesday

You can’t buy happiness but you can buy local and that’s kind of the same support the local businesses who support the area where you live, work and play

Wednesday

SPINACH and EGG PIE SERVES 6 INGREDIENTS:

2 bunches of spinach, trimmed 8 sheets filo pastry 60g butter, plus extra 10g, softened 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled, halved 8 eggs 150g ricotta 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated 1/2 cup Parmesan, grated 1/2 tsp grated nutmeg 2 tablespoons dried breadcrumbs

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 180C Lightly grease a 3cm deep 22cm flan pan with removable base. 2. In a saucepan of boiling salted water, blanch spinach for 30 seconds. Drain well. Cool, then chop roughly. 3. Layer filo sheets, brushing between each with butter. Line pan with pastry stacks, overlapping to cover. Trim edges, leaving 3cm overhang. Then place on an oven tray.

4. In a large bowl, whisk the 8 eggs together with cheeses and nutmeg. Stir in spinach, then season. 5. Arrange boiled egg halves, cut side down in pastry case. Cover with spinach mixture. Fold edges of pastry over filling. Sprinkle centre with breadcrumbs and dot with extra butter. Bake for 35-40 mins until set in centre and golden on top. Serve cut into wedges.

HOT CROSS MUFFINS INGREDIENTS:

2 cups self-raising flour 1 tsp mixed spice 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 cup brown sugar 3/4 cup sultanas 1/2 cup dried apricots, finely chopped 2 eggs, lightly whisked 3/4 cup milk 100g unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup icing sugar 2 tsp water

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 200C. Line 12 muffin pans with paper cases. Sift the flour, mixed spice and cinnamon into a large bowl. Stir in brown sugar, sultanas and apricots. Make a well in the centre. Combine the egg, milk and butter in a jug. Pour into the well. Use a large metal spoon to stir until just combined. 2. Divide the mixture among the prepared pans and smooth the surfaces.

Bake for 15-20 mins. Set aside for 5 mins to cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. 3. Place icing sugar in a small bowl. Gradually stir in water to make a thick icing. Place in a small sealable plastic bag. Cut 1 Corner off the bag to make a small hole. Pipe a cross onto each muffin and set aside until the icing is set.

The Sun

Wednesday April 8, 2020

SPORTS TALK With Jacob Page

Grumpy for the greater good I’ve got a little grumpy this week. Like “the terrible two’s” is to a toddler, the second week of this important Lockdown has been challenging. Week one, for a naturally introverted person like myself, was a breeze. The nostalgic games of rugby, cricket and league were a welcomed distraction from the world outside and I found it mostly satisfying. Week two, however, has left me

yearning for actual sporting competition where the result is unknown. I miss the American sports the most, the baseball season was meant to start last week and realistically I’m not sure if they will get even part of their 162-game season played. I’m yet to miss Super Rugby and I think part of that is down to the large amount of the game I’ve watched over a number of years. The game has over-saturated television screens and a break to

refresh it may help. Also, I’m a Crusaders fan and we’ve won it the past three years, so my hunger for victory is naturally lessened and replaced with an element of complacency. I feel bad for horse racing folk. Their game has long struggled to capture the imagination of Joe and Jill Average and with no racing occurring, horses still need to be feed, watered and run around so the expenses do not stop.

Mainland Netball essentially folded last weekend and you’d have to wonder how many other niche sport organisations are currently sitting on a similar knife edge. Hockey New Zealand made what I think is a wise decision to cancel all national tournaments this year which takes pressure off regions, schools and teams as they try to plot and plan their path through this. An argument could be made that summer sport could be the next lot

of organised activities played. Coronavirus may be slowing, or not, depending on what you read but no one country has eradicated it yet. If and when this can be achieved is the all important question. This lockdown is simply mind over matter. Yes, it is frustrating at times but it is for the greater good. I just hope sport isn’t a catastrophic casualty in all of this.

The new Marlborough Meals on Wheels service still available By community constable Russ Smith

By Aimee O’Hagan

Red Cross Marlborough want locals to know that their Meals on Wheels programme is classed as an essential service and is still running over the period of the four week lockdown. It’s a service which provides people in need from around the region with hot meals, delivered right to their doorstep. According to Red Cross Marlborough community activator, Trudy Langford, the service is managed by an “amazing group of volunteers” – co-ordinators Belinda Vavasour and Gretchen Bristed, and approximately 70 people from around the region, mainly Blenheim. “About 70% of our volunteers are over the age of 65,” she says. Many of these people have had to stay in isolation and are unable to help out with the service until the lockdown ends. “Belinda, Gretchen, and I have been in contact with young people [that we know], so there are about 20 volunteers now,” Trudy says. “We’ve created a contingency roster for about six weeks.” Trudy says that everything is “running smoothly” – volunteers work in shifts of about 2 and a half to 3 hours, with 10 volunteers working each week. The service is currently operating 5 days a week in Blenheim, and 4 days a week in Picton. “We’re doing so well that we’re considering running Meals on Wheels over Easter and on weekends,” Trudy says.

Red Cross Marlborough volunteer, Moira Conroy, dropping off food as part of the Meals on Wheels service. Photo supplied. “At least people will have access to hot meals.” Trudy’s incredibly thankful for the volunteers who are helping with the service throughout this difficult time. “It’s because of them that we’re able to do such a good job,” Trudy says. “Meals on Wheels is not just a meal delivery – it’s a wellfare check up.” For more information about Meals on Wheels or sign up as a Red Cross volunteer, Trudy can be emailed at Trudy.langford@redcross.org.nz.

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 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.

Working as a policeman in Marlborough over the last two weeks or so has been a truly unique experience. Normally bustling and busy streets have been deserted apart from the odd truck or delivery vehicle, and occasional private vehicle on the way to the supermarket or chemist. The whole of Marlborough has the feel of a post-apocalyptic scene, and the only time I’ve experienced something similar was around a decade ago when I was tasked with patrolling the ‘red zone’ in Christchurch after the big earthquake. Police are still busy, providing reassurance to those who need contact and information from us, including people and communities in the furthest-flung parts of rural Marlborough. Our Prevention staff recently visited the Leatham Valley and came across a Possum Trapper who had been in the back-blocks for over a month. He had no idea that New Zealand was in a Level 4 lockdown until Police explained the situation to him. While things are quieter around Marlborough with most sensible people doing all that they should be to keep us all safer from Covid-19 infection, there are always a few who try it on, and think they are the exception to the rules that apply to everyone. Police will continue to deal with those who they find breaking the self-isolation rules on a case-by-case basis. As a refresher, here are the additional guidelines Ministry of Health and Police released over the weekend for Alert Level 4, including around shared bubbles and what exercise people can partake in: Everyone in New Zealand is to be isolated or quarantined at their current place of

Russ Smith

residence except as permitted for essential personal movement. Exercise is to be done in an outdoor place that can be readily accessed from home and two-metre physical distancing must be maintained. Recreation and exercise does not involve swimming, water-based activities (for example, surfing or boating), hunting, tramping, or other activities of a kind that expose participants to danger or may require search and rescue services. A child can leave the residence of one joint care-giver to visit or stay at the residence of another joint care-giver (and visit or stay at that residence) if there is a shared bubble arrangement. A person can leave their residence to visit or stay at another residence (and visit or stay at that residence) under a shared bubble arrangement if: one person lives alone in one, or both of those residences or everyone in one of those residences is a vulnerable person. Aerial topdressing and rabbit poisoning using chipped carrots increased Molesworth Station’s stock carrying capacity. Bi-planes, such as this one on Davies’ farm in the Kaituna Valley, were used before the purpose-built Fletcher, and other aircraft. The bi-plane proved manoeuvrable and could take off with heavy loads from the smallest farm airstrip. Credit: Marlborough Archives, Marlborough Historical Society Collection.

The Sun

Wednesday April 8, 2020