Drug-buying agency Pharmac will begin funding continuous blood glucose monitors (CGMs) and a selection of wearable insulin pumps from October 1. Blenheim’s Geri Plant, 35, has insulin-dependent diabetes and has been diabetic since her diagnosis as a 16-year-old. Geri says the funding for the CGM’s is great news as a lot of us diabetics across the country have been waiting so long for this. Continued on page 2.
Geri Plant, 35, has insulin-dependent diabetes and has been diabetic since her diagnosis as a 16-year-old. Geri says the funding for the CGM’s is going to lessen the financial burden on many families who are already self-funding the devices to support their health,” she says.
Marlborough Sounds - Picton - Koromiko
Tuamarina
Rarangi
Spring Creek
Rapaura
Grovetown
How to reach us
Simon Byrne
simon@blenheimsun.co.nz Sales Manager
Katrina Whiteside
Sales Consultant
katrina@blenheimsun.co.nz
Rebecca Sampson
Sales Consultant
rebecca@blenheimsun.co.nz
Chris Valli
news@blenheimsun.co.nz Journalist
Want to earn money and get fit, become a Sun deliverer!
Ph: (03) 5777-868
72 High St, Blenheim Mon-Thu 9am-4.30pm www.blenheimsun.co.nz
No.1 for readership in Marlborough.
A lifeline to better health and freedom
Continued from page 1.
In the first year of funding 12,000 diabetics will receive the monitors, which communicate with a reader or smartphone to allow constant blood glucose readings without having to draw blood. An additional 5200 people will also become eligible to receive insulin pumps over the same period.
“It’s going to really lessen the financial burden on many families who are already self-funding these devices to support their health,”
Geri says. “I will be definitely be going ahead with it.”
Geri had been using the Dexcom system (wearable device which tracks glucose levels and sends them to her smartphone) and says she was lucky enough to be given a trial by her diabetes nurse.
“I have loved the convenience of using the system alongside my insulin pump. My pump links to the CGM system and can adjust my insulin needs and alarms when my blood glucose levels are going high or low,” she says. “They have made my life so much easier and I know they will be of great benefit to so many other diabetics.”
At present, 4800 people are funded to wear the pumps, which allow a constant flow of insulin instead of multiple daily injections of the drug.
Meanwhile, Blenheim’s Daniel
Burrow was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes on December 29 2021. He started using a CGM in December 2022 and says being on a CGM has changed the self-management of his diabetes significantly.
“It’s made things a lot easier because I don’t have to just leave the room to go use a lancet to check my blood levels and with it I can just pull out the reader and scan it to see my levels,” he says.
The head of Diabetes New Zealand, Heather Verry says the changes would be a lifeline to better health and greater freedom for people living with the life-threatening illness. She says it had taken too long for funding legislation to reflect the benefits the technology could provide for people living with the condition.
“Free access to these devices will not only be life-changing for thousands of New Zealanders living with Type 1 diabetes, it will also be lifesaving. We have lagged behind the rest of the world in having equitable access to this critical technology. Today we have caught up.”
Pharmac’s manager of pharmaceutical funding, Adrienne Martin thanked the diabetes community for their patience, as the agency worked their way through the commercial process to secure funding for the devices.
Bob Barnes Thelma & Alistair Sowman Barry Holmwood Ethan Williams Terry Ryan Faye Partridge
Blenheim’s Daniel Burrow was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes on December 29 2021. He started using a CGM in December 2022 and says being on a CGM has changed the self-management of his diabetes significantly.
Rates increase of 13 per cent
By Chris Valli
Marlborough ratepayers will have an average rate increase of 13.62 per cent.
The Marlborough District Councillors adopted the Long Term Plan 2024-2034 (LTP) at a special emergency meeting of Council on Monday. The setting of rates for the 2024-25 year confirmed an average rate increase for ratepayers of 13.62 per cent. Council’s Chief Financial Officer Geoff Blake says the audit report on the LTP was only received on Friday with a qualification related to two matters.
“These relate to Three Waters infrastructure asset renewals and the inflation assumptions Council used. The qualification does not mean the LTP is incorrect but that Audit New Zealand was not in a position to satisfy themselves with Council’s renewals forecasts particularly in the early years of the LTP. Council can be confident with the numbers but of course things do keep moving around us,” Mr Blake says.
“Unfortunately, new rates of inflation issued in July were higher than the ones we used in the LTP. Despite this the plan still represents a good basis for long term integrated decision making and coordination of Council’s resources and for accountability
to the community. It is pleasing therefore to finally be able to set rates for 2024-25 and I would like to thank Marlborough ratepayers for their patience.”
Invoices are being prepared and will be posted to ratepayers within two weeks.
Mayor Nadine Taylor thanked Councillors and staff for their work in preparing the LTP which had been “the most complex” in recent times. “This Long Term Plan has been a long time coming,” she told Councillors.
The complexity was due to the flow on effects of earthquakes and storm recovery on the region, the unwinding of Council’s Covid rates subsidy, fluctuating interest rates and an inflationary environment and the Sounds roads recovery project which really was now a “community resilience project”, Mayor Taylor says.
Mayor Taylor also outlined that almost all the money budgeted in the LTP was earmarked for core infrastructure.
“Central Government has said councils should focus on core infrastructure and that is exactly what we are doing with key projects including work on the water supplies around the district to upgrade pipelines, pump stations and wells to ensure they meet current needs. Drinking water improvements will continue with
The largest range of engineering supplies in the top of the South Island. Bearings, O-rings, mechanical seals, pneumatics, V-belts, stays, welders, tools, trailer components, wheels & castors, oils & lubes, safety gear, first aid kits.
Council’s Chief Financial Officer Geoff Blake says unfortunately, new rates of inflation issued in July were higher than the ones used in the LTP. “Despite this the plan still represents a good basis for long term integrated decision making and coordination of Council’s resources and for accountability to the community,” Geoff says.
chlorination to be introduced in Blenheim and a new water treatment plant in Havelock, to ensure water meets national standards,” Mayor Taylor says.
“Council will also be investing in sewage treatment plants and pump stations in Blenheim, Riverlands, Picton and Renwick, plus a new sewage treatment plant for Havelock and a major upgrade for Seddon’s plant.
Roading is the biggest item of Council expenditure at around 20 per cent, including maintenance, renewals and improvements to
roads, footpaths, bridges and drainage.”
Once invoices are issued and received rates rebates can be applied for those eligible. Payments for the first quarter of rates will be due on 11 October with subsequent quarters due on dates consistent with previous years – 11 December 2024, 11 March 2025 and 11 June 2025. Ratepayers can sign up to email to get their rates bill earlier by going to: www.marlborough. govt.nz/terms-and-conditionsof-use/online-services-account
Sun The
Te Tauihu Regional Growth Summit
A team from Marlborough including Mayor Nadine Taylor, Council’s Chief Executive John Boswell, senior economic development staff and local industry representatives travelled ‘over the hill’ to promote Marlborough’s economic priorities recently.
The summit brought together Marlborough, Tasman and Nelson councils with community and business leaders to discuss regional priorities, growth and infrastructure priorities and opportunities to partner with Government.
This included a facilitated session with Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and was the first of a series of summits around the country organised by Kānoa Regional Economic Development and Investment Unit.
Spring Flower Show
‘Spring Extravaganza’ hosted by the Marlborough Floral Art Group in conjunction with the Marlborough Horticultural Society.
Saturday 14 September, at St Christopher’s Church and Hall on Weld Street from 10am - 3pm.
Vanita Patel from Auckland will be giving a public demonstration in the Church from 10.30am - 12.30pm. Please be seated by 10.20am. All welcome.
Model Expo
The Nelson-Marlborough Truck Modellers Club 2024 Scale Model Expo is being held on the weekend of Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th September from 10am both days. Redwoodtown Hall at Oliver Park. Admission is $5, free for under 12s.
Nobody does bearings and engineering better than the team at Bearings & Accessories
Marlborough community dog walk
By Chris Valli
Marlborough Girls’ College
Year 11 students Matilda Phelps and Piper Patrick are taking their learning into the community while developing leadership skills and all for a worthwhile cause.
The pair are part of a whole school, whanau class community challenge which is student led. Every Wednesday, students have an extended whānau time.
In Years 10-13 the learning is centred around Te Whare Tapa Whā (four dimensions of health) and how students can strengthen each dimension of their hauora/well-being and effectively manage self, build resilience and apply values of whanaungatana (relationships), manaakitanga (hospitality/care) and kotahitanga (unity, togetherness).
The kaupapa (values) behind whanau time focuses on supporting students in a holistic way to empower them to be connected, collaborative, community-minded citizens.
What better way to be connected than a Marlborough community dog walk.
Piper says whanau teacher Lindsay Burrows was watching the news and a story about Pet Refuge came
on. “We soon realised when we brainstormed what do that we all have pet refuge in common, as we all love dogs and animals. What better way to fundraise for dogs than involving dogs,” she says.
The Pet Refuge shelter is a purpose-designed building which provides temporary shelter and security for pets in family violence situations.
“It’s for all kinds of animals and not just dogs,” says Piper. “It was my job to message them so I hopped on Instagram and says, this was our plan and if they had any QR codes so people could donate. We’re planning on having a gold con donation with a couple of buckets – we’ve got posters and they gave us their logos.”
Pet Refuge general manager Erin Ellis-Roberts says the facility reduced a major barrier to families leaving domestic violence by temporarily caring for their pets while families entered emergency housing or refuge.
It covered all costs, including vet treatment, transport, food, enrichment and training, to ensure each pet had the best opportunity to heal before being reunited with their owners in safety, she says.
As for leadership skills acquired
on Sunday, September 15 at 10am and
raising money for Pet
provides temporary shelter and security for pets in family violence situations.
to get the community event come to fruition Matilda says organisation and delegation has ‘definitely been’ part of the learning and leadership.
“Sometimes it takes a bit of pushing to get everyone to do the right
thing,” laughs Piper. “It’s not just us, we could do it without the other members of the whanau class.”
The dog walk will take place at 10am on Sunday, September 15 with the meeting, departure at the Munro
Street/Taylor River entrance ending up at Raupo Café/Restaurant.
“We’re hoping the Marlborough community will get behind us and bring along their dogs,” says Matilda.
COMMUNITY CHALLENGE: Marlborough Girls’ College Year 11 students Piper Patrick and Matilda Phelps (front row, left and centre) and whanau class 1BULA is taking their learning into the community with a community dog walk. The walk is
is
Refuge, which
Following simple, natural shapes
By Chris Valli
Winston Oliver enjoys mucking about in the shed and creating something nice.
Win is one of 60 artists, craftspeople and specialty collectors who will be displaying their art later this month for the third annual Alzheimers Marlborough Art, Craft and Collections Trail 2024.
Coinciding with World Alzheimers
Month the trail brings arts to the community and showcases talented artists like Win. It’s also an opportunity to meet and talk with exhibitors and learn about the inspiration for their art. The trail also helps Alzheimers Marlborough provide services for people living with dementia and their families and carers.
Win originally started out doing garden sculptures from wood and steel and various things from wine barrels but says he is now concentrating on jewellery and small sculpture from jade, shell and bone. This will be Win’s first year with the Alzheimers Trail. However, he has been selling his work at many markets and exhibitions for years now.
“I returned to Marlborough in January this year after six years away chasing the mokopuna/grandchildren,” he says. “I just enjoy mucking about in
the shed and creating something nice. I’m working hard at carving pounamu but being pakeha I’m staying away from traditional Maori carving and following simple, natural shapes mainly.”
The self-drive event is $25 per person and tickets are on sale from September 2 at the following places: Marlborough Alzheimers Centre, 8 Wither Road, Blenheim, Monday-Friday: 9am-3pm; Fidelio Gallery & Wine Bar, Blenheim Railway Station, Blenheim, Tuesday-Sunday: 11.30am-late; Marlborough Art Gallery, Te Kahu o Waipuna (Library Building), 15 High Street, Blenheim,Tuesday – Friday: 10am – 4pm, Weekends: 1pm – 4pm
The Alzheimers Marlborough Art, Craft and Collections Trail is on Saturday and Sunday September 21 and 22, 10am – 4pm both days.
who will be displaying their art later this month for the third annual Alzheimers Marlborough Art, Craft and Collections Trail.
Chorus
The Marlborough District Council is looking for artists to submit designs for the nine sites confirmed in this year’s initiative.
The Chorus cabinet art initiative began in 2010 with a pilot in Auckland and was so successful it was extended throughout the country with 170 murals on average completed each year.
Councillor Jonathan Rosene says it was a way of reducing vandalism on telecommunication cabinets as well as promoting a sense of community pride. Successful artists are paid for their works.
All information can be found at: https://www.marlborough.govt.nz/.../ chorus-cabinet-art...
The Blenheim Rotary Boot Sale Market is on every Saturday 8am – 12pm at the Blenheim Railway Station Carpark. Everyone welcome.
No booking required, just turn up and choose a site. $5 per site.
No sales of alcohol, guns, gin traps or children!
The Marlborough Farmers Market is on every Sunday 9am - 12pm at the Marlborough A&P Showgrounds rain or shine.
Come down and support your local growers and producers and help them support you in your local community. A huge range of stalls, and live music.
This will be Win’s first year with the Alzheimers Trail and says he now concentrates on jewellery and small sculpture from jade, shell and bone. Win is one of 60 artists
French
From working at Farmers to Ray White, a very supportive, close knit and friendly community has welcomed me ever since I moved here. From coffees at Thomas’s to the City Fitness gym, I’ve been faced with acceptance and open mindedness and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.
Arriving in Blenheim, all my fears instantly vanished, as I felt welcomed with open arms. The people here are incredibly kind and always smiling, the landscapes are breathtakingly beautiful, and life is much more peaceful compared to the pace I was used to before.
My family and I arrived in Marlborough three years ago, and our experience in Blenheim has been overwhelmingly positive. The community has warmly welcomed us, and we’ve felt tremendous support from both the Multicultural Centre and the Red Cross.
I’ve lived here around two years. I’m living with my husband, we’re working together at 2Fantastic Store, we love the Blenheim community, and everyone’s supportive to migrants.
Thailand
From the first day I felt welcome despite the English language barrier, people are very kind and caring towards me. I really enjoy Wednesday mornings at the multicultural centre’s morning tea because I can learn English and meet people from around the world.
After I found out about the sports programs, I realised there is a multicultural centre in Blenheim. They do a lot of activities involving foreigners, and the mix of cultures feels very welcoming.
you go out in the rain
Bay of Plenty hooker Taine Kolose throws into an attacking line out for Bay of Plenty against the Tasman Mako at Lansdowne Park on Saturday night. The Mako won 34-15 after a rainstorm with lightning saw the match kick off delayed by 30 - 40 minutes with the floodlights going out due to a lightning strike. Photo: Chris Valli Don’t
Letters on issues of community interest are welcomed. A maximum of 150 words please. They must be signed and a street address provided to show good faith, even when a nom de plume is provided for publication. The editor reserves the right to abridge letters or withhold letters from publication.
Email them to news@blenheimsun. co.nz or drop in to our office at 72 High St.
Please note that your name and street address MUST be provided with emails.
Letters/Opinions not necessarily those of the Sun management.
Dear Ed
I encourage the Sun to continue to allow Wally Richards to write his column.
It inspires and encourages people to be with nature, respect nature, to be self-motivated and to be aware of and research information.
“Words can be either the root of discord or a force for unity.
“They can be the origin of deception or the key to learning. They can be the instru-
In light of the last Labour/Greens government ruining our energy sector, currently our coalition government is trying desperately to revive power supply in New Zealand.
Would our local company Marlborough Lines (who thank you very much support us) as consumer shareholders consider the new proposals to open up lines companies to reinvest in power generation? This would mean returning to core investment, selling a wine company. If so many local consumers would then also benefit in being shareholders in local generation as well as distribution. Taking away a portion of costs paid to outside shareholders.ie gentailers that have just paid out huge investor returns.
David Kerr
Kaituna Blenheim
ments of plotting and intrigue or weapons for truth and wisdom” - Daisaku Ikeda. Just like Wally’s column, Letters to the Editor and Txt Talk come from a person’s own research and opinion.
Not everyone agrees with everything that is said, but censoring any of these voices, would be to limit our conversations to one source.
Tracey Williams Blenheim
Victoria Giordano Argentinian
Meera Yadav Indian
Leyda Rivas Rodriguez Colombian
Daniel Portillo Argentinian
Anton Peleman
Phra Suriyasak Somsa
Canvastown streetscape upgrade
An extensive revamp has reinvigorated the gateway to Canvastown.
The area outside the iconic Pelorus Tavern on SH6 has been upgraded with improvements including new paving.
The Village Green project has also enhanced access to the historic Miner’s Hut with grassed areas, pathways and revised traffic layouts.
This all means ongoing positive effects for locals and visitors Canvastown Community
Chairman Alan Rees said.
“It makes us feel good to welcome visitors into our slice of paradise with a revitalised look that is our Canvastown village.”
Street lighting, better parking, mobility access and outdoor seating have all been installed.
There is also an improved link to the stormwater system and a speed reduction in the area.
These were all carried out in line with objectives identified by Council’s Small Townships Programme’s planning process which began in 2017 Marlborough Sounds Ward Councillor Barbara Faulls said.
“I am delighted to see that after many years of the community asking for improvements to their village hub, we have been able to do these,” she said. “It’s improved the safety aspect and also enlivened the space while retaining the rural authenticity of the area.”
Canvastown has a rich gold-mining history which began in 1864 when the precious metal was discovered in the Whakamarino/ Wakamarina Valley. More than 6,000 prospectors helped form a thriving community.
Marlborough youth invited to EMPOWER Festival
Marlborough youth are invited to attend Te Rangapikikōtuku/Empower Festival, which is to be held in Nelson on September 7 and 8. The festival is aimed at young people aged 13 to 24 and is an opportunity to connect with tech innovators, explore career opportunities and unleash their creativity in a supportive and inclusive environment.
It will feature hands-on workshops, Battle Bots and an e-sports tournament, with various events held at NMIT and The Suter Theatre.
See the Facebook event for full details and a link to the ticket portal: www.facebook.com/events/395050839818 071/?mibextid=9l3rBW
Workshops foster connection with culture
Students from Bohally Intermediate and Richmond View Schools will soon be published writers following a series of workshops with language mentors.
The initiative, organised by REAP Marlborough and Welcoming Communities Marlborough, was designed for students from non-English speaking backgrounds. It gave them the chance to create their own piece of writing and have it published in a book alongside those of their peers. It was also an opportunity to connect with and share their culture and language.
The students were guided by language mentors to write in both their first language, as well as English. The finished pieces will be collated and turned into the My Voice, My Culture book, to be launched at the end of September.
A personal copy of each book will be presented to each student and language mentor at a special multicultural school assembly just after Welcoming Week 2024, which runs from 6 - 15 September.
Catchment care and erosion planting
At risk areas in Marlborough are benefitting from plantings through Council’s Catchment Care and Hill Country Erosion programmes.
This year more than 17,000 plants were established covering nearly four hectares of wetland or riparian areas.
More than three kilometres of fencing has been completed with support from the Catchment Care programme which began in 2020 and works with Marlborough communities to invest in protecting and enhancing catchments that are degraded or at risk of degradation.
Key objectives are to protect and improve water quality, reduce erosion and sediment and protect sensitive catchments.
Programme advisor Rosanne Homewood said Council had exceeded the target for the project regarding plants established and areas planted and was on target for fencing.
“A big challenge this summer was the drought which delayed fencing and planting and meant some landowners couldn’t do work due to increased financial constraints or adverse conditions,” she said. “This year saw a 100 per cent increase in landowners involved in fencing or planting projects compared to last year.”
Having new landowners engage had been a highlight of the programme she said.
Working alongside the Catchment Care project is advisor Jenny Buck who leads the Hill Country Erosion Programme. She
works alongside landowners providing advice and funding for eroding or erosion prone hill country properties.
Some landowners choose to fence off badly eroded areas, retiring it from grazing and establishing native vegetation on their properties.
“I have spoken to several landowners who have committed to retiring non-productive areas,” she said. “They get a real kick out of watching the native plants grow and then love the bird life that returns.”
For the 2023/24 season, 2,917 poplar and willow poles were planted and 19 hectares of exotic woodlots established.
For more information on the Catchment Care programme, go to www.marlborough. govt.nz/environment/catchment-care
The revamped area outside Canvastown’s iconic Pelorus Tavern
Matilde Tayawa Figuracion and Jarenne Cabiling work together to create a piece of writing for a new book, My Voice, My Culture.
New plantings on the banks of Lake Elterwater
‘We don’t
don’t have food’ one on one with the Sun
Chilean chefs Sebastian Rocha and Daniela Arcos had a vision to show Marlborough locals about the amazing flavour of Latin America. They spoke to Chris Valli about life in Marlborough and what food means to them.
Firstly, never assume how to spell one’s Christian name and secondly, where their accent could potentially come from. Oh and thirdly, never ask their relationship status.
“Daniela with just one ‘L’, everyone puts two,” laughs Daniela Arcos. When this writer asks how two people from Colombia end up working and serving authentic Latino food to Blenheim locals from a food truck, the interview gets off to an awkward start.
“First of all, we’re from Chile.” Mate.
Sebastian Rocha and Daniela Arcos, both trained chefs, have been together for 20 years and arrived in Marlborough in 2008 on a one year working holiday visa where Daniela says, ‘I came here following him’.
The couple grew up in Santiago, Chile’s capital and largest city which sits in a valley surrounded by the snow-capped Andes and the Chilean Coast Range. Daniela met Sebastian while on her apprenticeship in a hotel where Sebastian was her boss, where they both agree, ‘the relationship started’.
“We left to come to New Zealand,” Sebastian says. “We had a cousin who was travelling and said New Zealand is amazing and there were a lot of opportunities here and maybe we should try. We were like where is New Zealand?”
Sebastian’s first venture in the land of the long white cloud was Te Anau before working at Mount Ruapehu’s
National Park Lodge where he was employed as a chef.
The couple, who now live in Mayfield, have acclimatised to all the daily happenings of life in Marlborough and an acceptance of worth and value in the community. However, it hasn’t been easy. Daniela says it was a tough time finding their respective niche and purpose.
“We were like where is New Zealand?”
“He was working in Wellington at a restaurant and they (the employer) lied to us about the visa and said they would support us. Once our visa had expired they had bought someone else in. We were like, we don’t have any money…we need to find a work permit and then we heard about the vineyard work in Marlborough. We crossed the Cook Strait, the beginning of December with like $5 each in our accounts and living in our car. We worked two weeks and then, the vineyard said there was two weeks holiday with the summer break and we were like, no, we need money.”
What made the initial transition to Marlborough ‘super hard’ says Daniela was that she couldn’t speak fluent English with Sebastian having to translate everything in everyday conversations.
Their plan Daniela says was to work
party if we
in the vineyard and save enough money to fly to Denmark. Sebastian says at the time, the last option he wanted was to go back into the kitchen because of the ‘really bad Wellington experience’ where they promised me the work permit and visa.
“We were lucky because Sebastian asked for a chef job at Fairweathers and Crofty who used to be the owner (Warren Croft) says come back the next day.” Sebastian was part of the Fairweathers kitchen team for three years where he thrived. Yet, something was missing.
Cue the La Ruca (translates to thatched hut) food truck, Sebastian says it was all Daniela’s idea, who missed the flavours and food of Chile, fairly simple but varied with seafood, beef, fruit and vegetables. The cuisine stems from a combination of traditional Spanish cuisine, Chilean indige-
nous culture and local ingredients.
“The idea was to do exactly what we had in Chile, here in Marlborough. There was something in Wellington but not in Blenheim.”
They started showcasing the Chilean culinary skills with a BBQ and delicious Chilean burgers at the Marlborough Artisan Market in 2012 in Market Street - no irony lost, their food truck is now parked up one block away, outside Te Kahu o Waipuna, the art gallery and library. To be fair, the feedback from locals wasn’t that flash.
“It was hard in the beginning, the feedback was like, this is not real food with comparisons to Mexican. So we started to give free food to people who came to the market and they were like, hmm, this is good,” says Daniela. So how does food make them feel?
“It’s amazing to prepare our own food because we know what we like and that’s the best part. In fact, food in general,” explains Sebastian. “We love to cook for our close friends because here now in Marlborough, those friends are like family now,” says Daniela. “Food is for everything. We don’t party if we don’t have food. In Chile and Latin America the party is at night, you start to go out at midnight and come home at 6am with food available in food trucks.”
“When you work in Marlborough in the wine industry or cooking and wanting to do something or be better, people tend to like you and take care of you,” says Daniela.
“Someone like Crofty is our Kiwi Dad,” they both laugh. Famila (Spanish for family) in Marlborough through a much loved Chilean recipe.
A TASTE OF CHILE IN BLENHEIM: La Ruca food truck owners Daniela Arcos and Sebastian Rocha. Daniela says they love to cook for their close friends in Marlborough because those friends are like family now.
All aboard for HMS Pinafore
By Chris Valli
Blenheim Choral and the Marlborough Civic Orchestra combine their vocal and instrumental talents this weekend with the comic opera, H.M.S Pinafore taking to the ASB stage for two performances.
The story takes place aboard the Royal Navy ship HMS Pinafore. The captain’s daughter, Josephine, is in love with a lower-class sailor, Ralph Rackstraw, although her father intends her to marry Sir Joseph Porter, the First Lord of the Admiralty.
She abides by her father’s wishes at first, but Sir Joseph’s advocacy of the equality of humankind encourages Ralph and Josephine to overturn conventional social order. They declare their love for each other and eventually plan to elope.
H.M.S. Pinafore or, The Lass That Loved a Sailor is in two acts, with music by Arthur Sullivan and a libretto by W. S. Gilbert, affectionately known as Gilbert and Sullivan. It opened at the Opera Comique in London on May 22, 1878 and ran for 571 performances, which was the second-longest run of any musical theatre at the time.
H.M.S. Pinafore was Gilbert and Sullivan’s fourth operatic collaboration and their first international sensation.
Marlborough Civic Orchestra committee member Allison Haywood says she told the committee about Rudall Carte, the instrument company behind D’Oly Carte, the operatic company that produced Gilbert and Sullivan
productions and introduced the dramatist Gilbert to the composer Sullivan in the first place.
“Basically there would have been no Gilbert and Sullivan operettas, or Savoy Theatre without D’Oly Carte, and no D’Oly Carte Opera Company without Rudall Carte,” says Allison. “Richard D’Oly Carte was the son of Richard Carte, one of the founders of Rudall Carte, who made the high
quality English instruments of that time used in G & S productions.”
Speaking of quality instruments, Allison says the instruments are still sought after, and she has three of them – two flutes (one from 1879) and a piccolo (half sized flute).
“I have just had the piccolo overhauled, with a view to playing it for the production.
The piccolo almost certainly
A refurbished 1940s piccolo, previously owned by a first flute of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. The piccolo almost certainly would have been used in G & S productions (possibly in both London and Melbourne) as it dates from the 1940s when these shows were still very popular Allison says.
would have been used in G & S productions as it dates from the 1940s when these shows were still very popular,” she says.
The score has charmed audiences from ‘I’m Called Little Buttercup’ to ‘He is an Englishmen’. The talented cast of locals will include special guests Joanna Foote (daughter Josephine) and Chris McRae (Ralph Rackstraw).
The captain overseeing the opera
is Musical Director and Conductor Robert Tucker. Dunedin born, Robert completed a Bachelor of Music at the University of Otago in 2004 and has worked extensively with New Zealand Opera with highlights including playing Adolfo Pirelli in Sweeney Todd and Masetto in Don Giovanni. HMS Pinafore is this Saturday, September 7, 7:30pm and Sunday, September 8, 2pm.
MARITIME MERRIMENT: Blenheim Choral and the Marlborough Civic Orchestra rehearsing at the Nativity Anglican Church at the weekend for H.M.S Pinafore which has two performances at the ASB Theatre this Saturday and Sunday. Photo: William Butt.
Alzheimers Marlborough contract rolled over
By Chris Valli
Health New Zealand/Te Whatu Ora has listened to Alzheimers Marlborough’s concerns and have rolled over their current contract for an additional five months.
Last week the Blenheim Sun ran a story on HNZ deciding to cap the number of clients that can attend Alzheimers Society
Marlborough’s day centre on a daily basis.
HNZ was initially looking at only funding ASM for 160 clients. Manager Catherine Donnelly says what they were upset about, is that they were not looking at the increase in new clients that they have had over the past six months, or the fact that Dementia is on the increase.
Catherine says the five month roll over will
TALK TO YOUR LOCAL EXPERTS
be reviewed to ‘look at their current growth’ “What that means for us is we are at this stage able to continue to run our day programme without any cap to numbers that are attending which is great news,” says Catherine.
HNZ had suggested that clients either private pay, or used the Carer Support allocation, but this Catherine says still wouldn’t
cover their daily costs.
The centre could have up to 30 clients a day through its doors, enjoying activities such as walking groups, singing, exercise and crafts.
Alzheimers Marlborough was formed to assist and support carers and families dealing with dementia, allowing the person with dementia to live with dignity in their own homes.
Not to be missed
The Marlborough District Brass Band will present a star-studded cast at their Brass on Broadway concert in ASB Theatre Marlborough on Saturday, September 14.
Performing with the Band, the cast and chorus of Blenheim Musical Theatre will present a reprise of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat staring Spencer Kingi as Joseph, Vita Vaka as Pharoah, and narrator Iona Panoho.
Local soprano Jessie Sawers, who played lead roles of Eva Peron in BMT’s Evita, and Eponine in Les Misérables will sings songs from these musicals with the band, while locally raised man and rising baritone/tenor vocalist
David Moseley will sing numbers from Les Misérables and Jesus Christ Superstar. Other numbers from hit Broadway shows including Lion King, Chess, and Chicago will feature the band with soloists Ella Kernick-Harvey (vocal) and Tala Natapu (euphonium), and the amazing dancers from Marlborough Academy of Dance.
Musical Director Rob Randall says that Brass on Broadway will be two hours of the best known and favourite shows from Broadway, and features some of the best talent Marlborough has to offer.
Brass on Broadway tickets are available from the theatre or online at www.asbtheatre.com
Vocalist Ella-Kernick Harvey, percussionist Aimee Moore and soprano Jessie Sawers will be performing with the Marl borough District Brass Band’s, Brass on Broadway concert at the ASB Theatre on Saturday, September 14.
FAT TONY’S The Heart of Community Flavour
Nestled just outside the vibrant heart of our town, along SH1 between Grovetown and Spring Creek, Fat Tony’s serves as more than just a café, bakery, bar, and restaurant; it is a celebrated gathering place and a labour of love that invites everyone to indulge in delightful flavours and heartfelt connections. Our mission goes beyond offering delicious food and drinks; it’s about building a community where everyone feels welcome and valued.
At Fat Tony’s, we pride ourselves on our diverse menu, crafted with care to encompass the best of comfort food, artisanal bakery delights, and innovative drinks. From the moment you step inside, the aroma of freshly baked breads and delicacies envelops you, making it impossible to resist a warm treat or a cup of our expertly brewed coffee. Each item in our bakery is made from scratch, utilising high quality ingredients to ensure that every bite is a delightful experience, bursting with flavour and freshness.
As the sun rises, our café comes alive with the chatter of happy customers enjoying breakfast or brunch with friends and family. Whether you’re indulging in our renowned pancakes or savouring a big hearty breakfast, the warm, welcoming atmosphere encourages you to linger a little longer. We believe that every meal should not only fuel your body but also nurture your soul.
As day turns to night, Fat Tony’s transforms into a lively bar and restaurant where flavours truly come to life. Sip on a refreshing specialty drink or choose from a carefully curated range of National and International craft and house beers or local wines that reflect the best of our region.
Our kitchen team, passionate about culinary traditions, presents a menu featuring everything from hearty classics to contemporary dishes that entice the palate.
We would like Blenheim to give a warm welcome to our newest team members, we’re thrilled to announce the exciting addition of two talented culinary professionals to our team—our new Head Chef, Gabor Rozsos and Edit Csobai our skilled Baker.
Many of you may recognize Chef Gabor, who brings a wealth of experience and a passion for seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Chef Gabor previously
delighted the town some years ago at the beloved Baccas Restaurant, where his innovative dishes and warm hospitality left a lasting impression on the community. We can’t wait for you to experience his creative flair and culinary vision right here at Fat Tony’s.
Joining Chef Gabor is our new Baker, Edit, an expert in artisanal baking and a true master of the craft. With a background in both traditional and modern techniques, Edit promises to tantalize your taste buds with an array of freshly baked breads, goods, and desserts that will make every visit to our establishment a special occasion.
Together, this dynamic duo is dedicated to enriching our menu and creating an unforgettable dining experience for all of you. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Chef Gabor and Baker Edit — we are excited for you to meet them and taste the magic they will bring to our kitchen!
Stay tuned for upcoming special events and tastings, where you can get to know our new culinary stars and indulge in their delicious creations. Welcome aboard, Chef Gabor and Baker Edit!
But it’s not just the food and drinks that make Fat Tony’s special; it’s the sense of community we foster. From live music to themed nights, we aim to create experiences that resonate with our patrons. We’re proud to support local artists, musicians, and small businesses, establishing a place where culture and creativity thrive.
At Fat Tony’s, we believe every guest is part of our family. We are committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring that your experience is nothing short of memorable. Our staff, a dedicated team of locals, is eager to serve you with a smile, share their favourite recommendations, and make you feel right at home.
As we continue to grow and evolve, our vision remains clear: Fat Tony’s is a place to gather, enjoy, and celebrate life’s simple pleasures. We invite you to be part of our journey, to savour the flavours, and to create lasting memories with us. Come in, pull up a chair, and let the heart of our community take your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure.
Welcome to Fat Tony’s—where every bite brings people together.
GeT Ready To Roll up in youR FlyesT FiTs, sliCk youR HaiR baCk & join us FoR a niGHT oF GansTa vibes!
Welcome to the Team - Chef Gabor and Baker Edit
Welcoming Week Community Expo
Welcoming Week 2024
Welcoming Week is an opportunity to celebrate the region’s welcoming values and fosters mutual understanding, creates stronger connections and a deeper belonging.
Welcoming Communities Coordinator Heather Barnes says there are more
than 50 nationalities in Marlborough, with even more cultures and ethnicities represented within those nationalities.
“The Expo this year is an event where people can access a wealth of information and make those connections without having to visit each individual organisation,”
Heather says.
“We encourage everyone to pop in for themselves or to get information to share with neighbours, workmates, friends on their sports team or at church.”
The week will see various events during the week including a Marlborough
Business Trust breakfast at Fairweathers, a multicultural evening at My Space/ Marlborough Youth Trust and a waiata and an opportunity to learn Te Reo Maori at Maataa Waka (social service provider) in Main Street the following Friday, September 13 from 10am – 11:30am.
A stroke of luck Welcoming Week Expo
A new event for the region, Marlborough’s inaugural community expo is part of the annual celebration of Welcoming Week which starts on Friday, September 6.
Held at the Convention Centre on Tuesday, September 10 from 3 – 6pm, the expo provides a wonderful opportunity for newcomers and the wider community to learn about and stay informed on the various organisations and services available in Marlborough.
The expo will feature over 35 stalls with artistic performances every 30 minutes on stage. Some of the cultural performances include the Chinese Association, Latin American Community, Indian Dances and local groups such as the “V.P.B” academy (Latin dance).The Colombian Community will be presenting a folkloric dance from Colombia, with the dances demonstrating the joy and energy of the Colombian culture.
Marcelo Gonzalez is the Cultural and Sports Events Manager with the Marlborough Multicultural Centre at 21 Henry Street. The MMC is a not for profit organisation dedicated to ‘fostering social unity and a sense of belonging’.
In 2006, in response to significant demographic changes, Marlborough emerged as one of seven regions selected to spearhead a pioneering ‘Settling in Initiative’ project by the Ministry of Social Development. The aim was to address challenges faced by newcomers and their integration into the local communities.
Marcelo Gonzalez from the Marlborough Multicultural Centre is originally from the southern part of Chile, specifically the Araucania Region, in a small city called Loncoche. He arrived in Marlborough, January 2023 and says it was quite literally, a ‘stroke of luck’ that brought him to the region. After experiencing a car accident near Blenheim, he needed to stay in the area for a few days while his car was being repaired.
“During my time here, I had the chance to explore Blenheim and was introduced to the morning tea sessions offered by the Marlborough Multicultural Centre. Since I was on holidays, I attended the morning tea session and had the opportunity to meet the work team. After discussing my background, which includes over five years of experience as a coordinator of cultural and sporting events at a University in Chile, MMC offered me the chance to work with them. I was entrusted with organising the Multicultural Festival and forming a group for traditional Latin American dances, which I gladly accepted,” says Marcelo.
Marlborough now has a centralised directory for groups, services, and activities.
Marcelo Gonzalez, Cultural and Sports Events Manager at the Marlborough Multicultural Centre.
Free Entry - Everyone Welcome
Tuesday September 10th, 3pm - 6pm Marlborough Events Centre (next to ASB Theatre)
Event Guide
FRIDAY 6 SEPTEMBER
Marlborough Business Trust Biz
Breakfast
7:30am – 8:45am / Free (order and pay for your own breakfast at the counter), at Fairweathers, 36 Scott Street, Blenheim. Join us to hear more about the work being done by Business Trust Marlborough to help migrants understand and navigate business in New Zealand. We’ll share more about the support available and the business networking organisations that exist to accelerate business success. Please RSVP to: manager@ businesstrustmarlborough.co.nz by 2 September.
FRIDAY 6 SEPTEMBER OR
SATURDAY, 7 SEPTEMBER
Te Tiriti o Waitangi Workshop
10am – 3pm / Free (lunch included) at ASB Theatre, 2 Hutcheson Street. We encourage our community to come along and learn about Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Rangitāne o Wairau. Rangitāne have resided in the northern South Island for many generations since the arrival of our tupuna Te Huataki in the sixteenth century. Te Tiriti o Waitangi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s founding document which outlines the relationship between Māori and the British Crown. As part of Welcoming Week, Rangitāne o Wairau are delivering free Te Tiriti workshops to our community. For more information or to register contact events@rangitane.org.nz
FRIDAY 6 SEPTEMBER
Spring Multicultural Evening – Opening Event for Welcoming Week 6:30pm – 8:30pm / Free at MySpace, 18 Kinross St. Blenheim. Experience a mesmerizing evening where the magic of music, dance, and performance from around the world comes to life. Join us for a vibrant celebration featuring diverse cultures and talents. Bring your loved ones, a delicious dessert to share, and your unique talents to add to the fun. All are welcome. If you are interested in performing please contact Ewa at 021 105 0483.
SATURDAY 7 SEPTEMBER
Hora del Cuento – International
Storytime
2pm – 3pm / Free at Te Kahu o Waipuna Blenheim Library , Room 2 (bottom level). Bring your family and join the Marlborough Multicultural Centre for a special ‘Hora del Cuento’, with storytelling in Spanish as well as other languages from around the world. A great way to introduce different cultures and languages to children through children’s books and a fun craft. For more information contact marcelo@mmc.nz
Volunteering
Welcoming all newcomers
SUNDAY 8 SEPTEMBER
Youth Sports Day
1pm – 3pm / Free at Churchhill Glade, Pollard Park. Marlborough Youth Council and Sport Tasman will have a range of sports and activities available across the afternoon. Come along with friends or family. As well as sports and outdoor games, Youth Council is offering a BBQ and fruit. There will also be a chill out area for those wanting to watch rather than take part. For more information contact Jodie Griffiths 0276 278 762.
TUESDAY 10 SEPTEMBER
Welcoming Week Community Expo
3pm – 6pm / Free at Marlborough Events Centre (beside ASB Theatre). Come visit Marlborough’s 1st Welcoming Week Community Expo! Learn about local groups and organisations that can help with settling, meet people, get information and ask questions. Watch cultural performances from around the world and go in the draw to win great prizes. Everyone welcome, newcomers and long term residents who want to find out what is available in your community. For more information contact heather.barnes@marlborough.govt.nz
THURSDAY 12 SEPTEMBER
DiversiTEA Company Café
10:30am to 11:30am / Free at Picton Library, 2 Dublin St. Picton. Join a special morning tea at the Picton Library. Try teas and snacks from around the world and meet new people. For more nformation contact heather.barnes@ marlborough.govt.nz
FRIDAY 13 SEPTEMBER
Waiata at Maataa Waka Ki Te Tau Ihu 10am – 11:30am / Free at Maataa Waka, 56 Main St. Blenheim. Nau Mai Haere Mai o Maataa Waka Ki Te Tau Ihu. Come and Join us for some beautiful waiata and an opportunity to learn Te Reo Māori in a comfortable, safe space. This will be followed by parakuihi (morning tea) with this welcoming group in Waiharakeke. RSVP to kiaora@maataawaka.co.nz or 03 577-925
SUNDAY 15 SEPTEMBER
Conservation Kids NZ Open Day for Families
1pm – 2:30pm / Free at Pollard Park (beside the playground). Enjoy all sorts of fun and nature based activities whilst learning more about Marlborough’s amazing natural environment. Weather permitting - event won’t happen if it is raining. For more information contact conservationkids@ envirohub.co.nz
Marlborough’s commitment
The Welcoming Communities - Te Waharoa ki ngā Hapori programme rolls out the welcome mat for all newcomers to Marlborough. It provides a framework for Marlborough to become even more welcoming and attractive to newcomers, a place where people want to come, stay and make their home. Welcoming Communities is coordinated by Immigration New Zealand and aims to encourage and support councils and their communities to take a greater leadership role in welcoming newcomers. Marlborough is one of 40 councils and local boards in New Zealand participating in the programme. Marlborough signed the Welcoming Communities Statement of Commitment at a ceremony in the Marlborough District
Council Chambers on November 24, 2023. The Statement of Commitment was signed by Rawiri Faulker, Pou Toa Matarau of Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Mayor Nadine Taylor, Turi Hippolite, Pou Whakahaere of Ngāti Koata, Corey Hebberd , Kaiwhakahaere Matua of Rangitāne, Mark Wheeler, then CEO of the Marlborough District Council and Matilde Tayawa Figuracion, Chair of the Marlborough Multicultural Centre.
The signing was the final step in achieving stage 1 accreditation as a ‘Committed Welcoming Community’ and a symbol of the journey of working together to welcome and support newcomers and create an inclusive community where everyone felt they belonged.
great things that RM has been doing for our whanau new to Marlborough
Celebrating Former Refugee Drivers Licensing with REAP Marlborough
Date: Thurs, 10th Oct - Thurs, 14th Nov 24 Act code - 44588
A hands-on opportunity with a wonderful tutor. Feel the clay and make your own koru. Glazes and firing complete your art work and will be delivered to REAP Marlborough when finished.
This beginner’s course will teach you the basics in pronunciation and simple sentence structures. You’ll be able to use formal and informal greetings, introduce yourself and recite your pepeha.
Grey Power Marlborough
Advocating for people 50 +
Wishing all our members a special merry Christmas and a happy new year
From the President’s Desk
Wheelie bins – love them or hate them. The wheelie bin rollout (pardon the pun) has been and gone, and we are 6 weeks into the new regime. I have taken particular interest in this initiative from Marlborough District Council (MDC) as there was some angst at the public meeting Grey Power hosted about the changes being made.
First off, some people complained about where they were going to store their bins before July 1st - I am pretty sure they were stored where they still are now. Then there was the concern about manhandling them out to the curb, and I know there are still some issues surrounding that concern. Then the worry about what bins to put out when (I have to admit I looked up the MDC website, didn’t read it properly, and put out the wrong bin the first week).
I now rely on my husband to tell me if I put the right one out.
I now see the shiny new bins out every week and think how much better they look than torn black rubbish bags. From my perspective - you got it right, MDC. It is much cleaner, easier on the eye and more efficient, so the bouquet goes to you from me.
I also want to share with you some of the areas Grey Power are working on nationally.
• Cognitive testing for renewal of Drivers’ Licences when you reach 80 to be consistent
Submission to NZTA on their Draft Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits Rule
Office Snippets
We are still following up some unpaid subscriptions. Please do let us know if you have decided not to renew this year, and not assume that not paying achieves this. Many of our members are Grey Power Electricity customers and do need to renew to keep the power discounted rate. Please check your email SPAM/ JUNK folders, as sometimes the invoices and newsletters end up in there. If you believe that you have paid, but
Tuesday 10 September, 3pm6pm, Welcoming Week Community Expo at the Marlborough Events Centre (next to ASB Theatre).
Friday 20 September, drop-in between 1- 3pm at Blenheim Library, Seniors Digital Workshop: Recording Your Digital Story.
21 & 22 September, 10am - 4pm, Alzheimer’s Marlborough Annual Arts and Crafts Trail. Contact 021
still have a green sticker on your card, please check your bank statements. Some payments have been made to an old bank account number and they then return to the member’s bank account a day or two later. We are unaware that you have tried to pay, and the membership remains outstanding. If you have a yellow membership card and Discount Book, your membership has been renewed - thank you very much for your continued support.
126 2508 or MarlboroughAdmin@ alzheimers.org.nz for more information.
Tuesday 24 & Wednesday 25 September, 3.30pm - 4.30pm, at Blenheim Totara, 22 Alfred Street, Blenheim. Seniors Digital Workshop: Using Photos, Audio and Text for Digital Storytelling, includes Canva.
Thursday 26 September, 10.15am,
Use that Discount Book
If you have a business and would like to advertise next year, please get in touch with the office at office@greypowermarlborough. co.nz as we begin work on this shortly. Current advertisers will be contacted. We do encourage you to look through your Discount Book, there are some great savings to be had.
Each month we would like to acknowledge the support shown to
our members by some of the businesses: Beaver Partnership for local accommodation, Blackmore Audiology, Blenheim Appliance Repairs, Blenheim Chimney Cleaning, Blenheim Electric House, Browns Chimney Services, Cerise Home and Giftware, Citizen’s Advice Bureau, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, Cycle World Blenheim, Estate Busters, Geoffrey T Sowman Funeral
Please remember to let us know any changes of address, phone numbers and/or emails by emailing office@ greypowermarlborough.co.nz or telephoning 578 4950.
Grey Power Marlborough and the Marlborough District Council are putting on another of their popular seminars – this one is all to do with Mobility Scooters. See events below (Life Without a Vehicle) and featured poster for more details.
Grey Power Marlborough and the Marlborough District Council, free seminar and open to all, members and non-members - Life Without a Vehicle. This will cover Mobility Scooter care, hazard identification, Total Mobility Scheme, safety advice, and practical advice on using a mobility scooter, with a model available to try. At the Nativity Centre, 76 Alfred Street, Blenheim.
Directors and Gleeson Electrical. New discount: Specky the Handyman, offering lawn maintenance, mowing and gardening, landscaping, weeding and home repairs. Call Peter Speck on 022 300 9237. Lastly, we would like to extend our condolences to the family of Lee Chan, Quartz Carpet Care.
Events:
Ombudsman’s Office - what do they do?
We have all heard about the Ombudsman’s Office, but many of us do not know exactly what they do. Two members of the Grey Power committee took the opportunity to find out about this role when we attended a recent road show.
The Ombudsman is an officer of Parliament. That person and those within that Office are independent, impartial, and strive to adhere to their mantra of Tuia Kia Ōrite - Fairness to All.
Peter Boshier has held the role of
Ombudsman since 2015, but due to government age restrictions he will retire from this role in the near future.
The Ombudsman’s office employs 250 staff with 78% of them being lawyer-trained. They are not advocates but work in an advisory capacity. An example might be that you believe a relative is being mistreated in a residential care facility, but the management will not look into the mistreatment.
Their mandate includes:
Guidance and advice.
Investigation of complaints (against government agencies and councils and about the right to information requests).
Receipt of protected disclosures (whistle blowing), monitoring and inspection of places of detention and monitoring performance under Disabilities Convention.
Who can the Ombudsman look into?
• Government Departments and Ministries.
Life without a vehicle...
This is a seminar brought to you by Grey Power Marlborough and the Marlborough District Council Thursday 26 September at the Nativity Centre, 10.15am
These seminars are free and suitable for anyone.
The topics being covered are listed below. There will be time for general questions, but specific questions for a person will not be able to be answered in this public forum. Please bring a friend or family member, light refreshments will also be provided.
10.15am Mobility Scooter Care
Debbie Gull from Access Mobility Blenheim will talk about:
Charlotte Campbell-Lamerton from NZTA will talk about:
• What is the Total Mobility scheme & criteria
• Hazard identification - who and how to advise if there is a safety issue for scooter users.
11.05 Safety advice
Community Police Officer Russ Smith and Mike McCann will talk about:
• What are the rules
• How to keep yourself safe
Gain more insight into the guidelines and rules when operating a mobility scooter.
As well as advice on how to keep yourself safe when getting around.
11.30 Practical session
Russ Smith and Mike McCann will take you through a special session where you can get practical advice on using your scooter.
For those interested in trying out a mobility scooter, there will be a model available.
For more information contact the Grey Power office on ph 5784950 or email jodie. griffiths@marlborough.govt.nz
• Ministers (about decisions on requests for official information).
• State-owned enterprises and crown entities.
• Universities, polytechnics.
• School boards.
• Public funded care, aged care facilities.
• Custody providers for children/tamariki).
How can the Ombudsman help you?
• If you believe you have been treated unfairly by government agencies, councils or school boards.
• Have not been able to resolve your concern with these bodies.
• Are having difficulty getting
information that you have requested from them. What can’t the Ombudsman help you with?
• Private individuals or companies.
• Private training establishments.
• Police and Lawyers.
• Members of Parliament.
• Decisions made by a full council or tribunal.
• Government Ministers (unless it relates to a request for official information review or appeal).
• If you have the right to appeal a decision to a court or tribunal.
Contact by phone: 0800 802 602
Fabric-a-Brac zipped up for another year
By Cathie Bell
Fabric-a-Brac events raise money for local Hospice and this year’s event in Blenheim raised $7,638.87 for Hospice Marlborough from sales of donated fabric and sewing supplies.
The sales also included pop-up cafe, raffles, stallholder fees, gold coin donations and the proceeds of the Mop-Up Pop-Up sale the following week.
Over 300 keen sewers and crafters zipped into the fourth annual Fabric-a-Brac event on Saturday, August 17, walking out with big smiles and armloads of bargains. People came from as far away as Auckland and Balclutha to make a weekend visit to get in on the Fabric-a-Brac action.
For the week following the event the Hospice Shop in Redwoodtown ran a ‘Fabric-a-Brac Mop-up, Pop-up’ in store for fabric-a-holics who didn’t make it or wished they had brought more.
Marlborough organiser Tracy Johnston is thrilled with the outcome and the willingness of so many to help for a good cause
“This event is a real team effort with the team at Blenheim Flooring Xtra and Hospice Marlborough volunteers putting in long hours to
Dublin Street reopens
Picton residents and visitors were able to travel directly across town via Dublin Street last Thursday with the road reopening to traffic and pedestrians.
KiwiRail project manager Doug Carter says they’ve had crew putting in some big days the past few weeks to get the job finished and says they’re even a day or two ahead of schedule.
“Most importantly, barrier arms and signals, and a new pedestrian safety feature, a ‘maze’, on the level crossing are all installed and tested. We’re good to go. There is a bit of tidying up to do. The footpaths aren’t quite finished and the road surface needs tidying up in due course, but the most important thing is to get the road open. We hope it’s another step back to normality for residents,” Doug says.
ferry redevelopment project.
“Work continues on the last section of the Waitohi Awa Culvert, which once finished will have greater capacity to manage stormwater. The new mechanical depot and offices are almost done. The demolition of the old depot and the reinstatement of the vehicle marshalling yard are well underway – these are the final pieces of work to be completed.”
Over the next few weeks, the Simcox Construction team will be undertaking final tidy up works off the road carriageway with as little disruption as possible. A crew from Marlborough District Council will construct a footpath at the Dublin and Auckland Street intersection, completing the work to reconnect Picton’s port side and town centre.
prepare all the donated fabric and sewing supplies ready for sale on the day. Then there are the bakers who set up and serve in the pop-up cafe, the venue team and the many others who help pack in, pack out and promote the event,” says Tracy.
In the past four years Marlborough Fabric-a-Brac has collectively raised $26,790.37.
Hospice Marlborough rely on fundraising to help supplement their funding from Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand to enable them to provide their services free to the community.
Events and Engagement Lead
for Hospice Marlborough Leigh Somerville says community fundraisers like the Marlborough event play a crucial role in their ability to continue to deliver exceptional palliative care across the region. Fabric-a-brac Marlborough will return in August/September 2025. It is never too early to donate fabric and sewing supplies. Donations of quality fabric and sewing supplies can be dropped into the Hospice Shop in Redwoodtown Blenheim or the Hospice Shop on High Street in Picton during normal business hours, at any time of year.
“Port Marlborough, Marlborough Roads, NZTA, Marlborough District Council and KiwiRail have all collaborated to get this work done on time, and Simcox have done a terrific job on the construction front. It’s a real pleasure to work together on this and other projects.”
Broadway also reopened, made possible by the reopening of Dublin Street as the main route for cross-town traffic. The reopening of Dublin Street and Broadway mostly completes KiwiRail’s work to wind up the
Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor welcomed the reopening and acknowledged KiwiRail’s efforts to return Picton to ‘the way it was’ before the ferry precinct redevelopment work began.
“I would also like to make special mention to the patience shown by the community of Picton during what has been at times a frustrating and disruptive situation for everyone. It’s great to have Broadway reopening as well – made possible by the putting right of Dublin Street,” Mayor Taylor says.
Over 300 keen sewers and crafters zipped into the fourth annual Fabrica-brac event in on Saturday, August 17, walking out with big smiles and armloads of bargains. People came from as far away as Auckland and Balclutha to make a weekend visit to get in on the Fabric-a-Brac action.
RAISING AWARENESS TO FIGHT PROSTATE CANCER
Know your prostate
By Chris Valli
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and more than 4,000 Kiwi men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year.
Every day 10 mates, fathers, sons, brothers, grandfathers will be told they have prostate cancer – if you
you’re bound to know someone who has.
Prostate cancer occurs in the prostate and is a small walnut-shaped gland in males that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. It’s also one of the most common types of cancer.
prostate gland, where they may not cause serious harm. However, while some types of prostate cancer grow slowly and may need minimal or even no treatment, other types are aggressive and can spread quickly.
Prostate cancer that’s detected early - when it’s still confined to the prostate gland - has the best chance
in Blenheim for men and their families living with a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. They met yesterday at the Marlborough Family Chiropractic in Henry Street for an opportunity and demonstration of their Pelvipower machine.
The prostate sits between the pelvic floor and bladder. When the pelvic floor contracts, the prostate is lifted up into the bladder (that’s how you can stop the flow of urine). However, chronic or stress-related tension in the pelvic floor causes chronic compression of the prostate into the bladder.
MFC has recently acquired some pelvic equipment which is seeing positive results with clients. The Pelvipower system con-
Chiropractic assistant Leonie MacDonald tries out the Pelvipower system, in effect, two ‘chairs’ which provide a training system for the pelvic floor.
training system for the pelvic floor.
The pelvic floor muscles can be considered to have two important functions.
They provide support or ‘floor’ to the pelvic viscera and secondly, constrictor functions to the urethra, and anal canal.
Karen says there is a misconception that the terminology ‘pelvic floor’ correlates with or affects ‘just women’. It’s important for men, too. The pelvic floor muscles are located between the tailbone (coccyx) and the pubic bone within the pelvis and support the bowel and bladder.
“It affects a lot of women after childbirth but also men who have had prostate problems,” she says.
Don’t wait for symptoms, many men don’t have them when they are first diagnosed and many don’t know how dangerous this disease is, they don’t talk to their doctor about it, their doctor doesn’t talk to them about it, or they simply don’t know they may have it as they have no symptoms and don’t feel unwell. The Prostate Cancer Foundation receives
the generosity to help spread the message for men to get regular checks, to fund research that will improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes, and provide support for those who need it the most - the Marlborough men and their families living with prostate cancer every day. Visit prostate.org.nz to find out more.
taPi Wines joins Vintners
By Chris Valli
A ‘bright and memorable drop’, named after Marlborough’s Mt Tapuae-o-Uneku has joined the Vintners New Zealand portfolio.
TAPI wines joins Vintners New Zealand founded by a trans-Tasman winemaking partnership, Altschwager + Kenneally wines and is based in Marlborough and South Australia.
Vintners represent some of the finest wine estates from around the world and say they are delighted to have TAPI sit alongside their other notable Marlborough producers Framingham, Summerhouse, and Rapaura Springs.
The small family winery is directed by Gus and Swan Altschwager of Marlborough with Mark and Emma Kenneally of South Australia.
With over 40 years of combined viticulture and winemaking experience, Gus and Swan place sustainable, organic, small-batch production at the heart of the family owned and operated business.
Gus is enthusiastic about their organic credentials and says they wanted to have a vineyard that they felt comfortable
having their kids run and play in.
“With spending as long as we have in the (wine) industry, we also wanted to create wines we were proud to have on the dinner table,” says Swan.
TAPI’s fruit comes from hand-picked, organically certified blocks throughout the Marlborough Valley and boasts a string of Medals and noteworthy accolades.
Their Organic Sauvignon Blanc has claimed a Gold Medal six years running at the Aotearoa Organic Wine Awards (2019, 2020, 2021,2022, 2023, & 2024), Champion Sauvignon Blanc twice (2019 & 2024), and the Reidel Wine of Show (2022). Most recently the Sauvignon Blanc was selected by Rolling Stone Magazine as Best White Wine in their wine and spirits awards.
Named after the tallest mountain in Marlborough, Tapuae-O-Uenuku, meaning footprint of the rainbow, TAPI’s colourful, distinctive labels are inspired by the rainbow that forms over the mountain every time it rains.
The TAPI Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay was available from September 1, with a Marlborough Organic Sparkling wine to be released later in the year.
September spike in motorcycle crashes
By Chris Valli
ACC is challenging riders across the Marlborough region to be ready to get back on their bike this month.
James Whitaker, ACC Injury Prevention Leader says more than 50 percent of motorcyclists de-register and put their bikes away over the winter months but that changes in spring.
“As we come into September, it’s a great time of year and we want motorbike riders to celebrate their love of riding,” says James. “As you get back on the bike, make sure you’re ready to get the most out of the riding season.”
Every year from September, ACC sees a spike in motorcycle crashes, injuries claims, and fatalities. Motorcycle Awareness Month (MAM) is
run every September and is promoted by ACC, the Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council (MSAC), NZ Police, the Marlborough District Council and Waka Kotahi.
In 2023, ACC accepted 44 motorbike-related injury claims in the Marlborough region, which came at a cost of $2.1 million to help people recover. In 2024 (up to July 23), ACC has accepted 34 motorbike-related injuries in the Marlborough region.
Over the past five years (2019-2023), ACC accepted 231 motorbike-related injuries in the Marlborough region with the injuries coming at a cost of $10.5 million to help people recover.
MAM was launched in 2018 when some of the riders at Ride Forever were looking at the crash statistics from the previous year. They outlined
that many riders hurt themselves when they ride their bike for the first time, after a long winter break.
James says motorbike riders and car drivers are both responsible for reducing motorcycle fatalities and injuries.
“We are still not getting the message,” he says.
Riders need to make sure their gear and bikes are in good condition before hitting the roads, while car drivers should keep an eye out for motorcyclists, particularly at intersections. Riders who have completed a Ride Forever course are up to 50 percent less likely to lodge a motorcycle-related accident claim than non-trained riders. To date, around 16,000 riders have completed at least one Rider Forever course.
Over the past five years (2019-2023), ACC accepted 231 motorbike-related injuries in the Marlborough region with the injuries coming at a cost of $10.5 million to help people recover.
Wairau Valley’s TAPI Wines has joined the Vinters New Zealand portfolio. The small family winery is directed by Swan and Gus Altschwager of Marlborough, pictured, with Mark and Emma Kenneally of South Australia.
Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford says they have been advocating for a national conversation about the use of technologies like gene editing for a long time.
They believe last month’s genetic technology announcement as a positive step forward for New Zealand.
“The last time New Zealand took a serious look at the potential use of these technologies was in the early 2000s, but the science has continued to develop at breakneck speed since then, he says. “Our collective understanding of some of the big global challenges we’re all facing, like climate change and biodiversity loss has also continued to quickly develop over that time.
“The announcement from the Government opens the door for us to consider all the potential benefits, weigh them up against any risks, and decide how we want to move forward together
as a country.”
Gene-tech conversation positive step
Supporting the better use of technologies was one of Federated Farmers’ 12 policy priorities for restoring farmer confidence in the lead-up to the 2023 General Election.
“Farmers are always looking for new technologies to help them improve their production, increase their profit, or reduce their environmental footprint,” Langford says.
“There are huge opportunities to help us reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, improve drought resilience, or increase our farm production using these technologies.”
Langford says there are also potential conservation benefits, like eradicating possums that are spreading disease and decimating our native forests, and benefits for healthcare.
“These aren’t just imaginary concepts - they’re real possibilities,” he says.
“Of course, there will always
be risks and trade-offs that need to be carefully considered too, like how our international consumers would feel about such a change.”
Federated Farmers will be engaging in the Select Committee process on behalf of their members to ensure any legislation is fit for purpose and adequately addresses any possible risks.
“The potential opportunities here are too great to just leave them sitting on the table without even taking a look at them,” Langford says. “We would be doing ourselves a huge disservice as a country if we weren’t even prepared to have that conversation.”
Federated Farmers President Wayne Langford says the Government’s announcement opens the door for them to consider all the potential benefits, weigh them up against risks, and decide how farmers want to move forward as a country.
Father’s Day in blenheim saw the Omaka Aviation Centre’s Wings & Wheels Day. It was an amazing day of flying and a fantastic display of classic aircraft.
Photos: Dominique Chiroux.
Daffodil Day
Daffodil Day was on Friday August 30 and saw a number of volunteers in blenheim and Picton giving up their time to support the Cancer Society Marlborough.
Photos: Chris Valli
Dreads for Cancer
At lunchtime Luke Roberts, 27, shaved his distinctive dreads in the forum to a small but vocal crowd of supporters and onlookers. In 2030, Luke’s brother Logan died from Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. As of Monday, September 2, Luke had raised $5731 for the Cancer Society Marlborough.
Photos: Chris Valli
A clean shave. Luke examines the new feel and look.
Karen Maxted from Allure Hair Design does the initial honors of cutting Luke’s dreads.
Eileen and Barry Lions outside The Goodhome Marlborough.
Sandy Marshall and Dinah Turner on the corner of High and Queen Streets.
Erica Dean and Sage inside Rangitane House.
Jude Goodall and Jude Hardy-Jones in Market Street.
Collette Marfell, Alana Sagar and Marco Hope outside CPR.
5 minutes with...
John Boswell
Marlborough District Council Chief Executive
Are you a dog or cat person?
Both.
My friends would say I am…
The world’s worst golfer.
The best advice I ever received was?
Head up and swing as hard as you can.
What would you buy if money was no object?
A secluded, boat access only bach in the Marlborough Sounds.
Local coffee haunt?
Streetwise Coffee Cart in Boyce Street.
Favourite takeaway?
A curry.
The shop you can’t walk past is...?
A good pub on a hot day.
What’s the most thoughtful gift you’ve ever received?
My parting gift from the NZ Army was a fully carved WWII 303. It’s truly magnificent – a real taonga/treasure and representative of my military career.
Where is your happy holiday place? Somewhere warm, not too far from a great beach and a cold beer.
Favourite programme or series currently watching?
The Rugby Championship.
What’s one thing on your bucket list?
Whatever the next adventure is . . .
Come check out our great range
gardening this week
New season growing tips: By Wally Richards
It is now September and the daylight hours are increasing every day.
In fact depending where you are in New Zealand day light hours have increased by approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours since the winter solstice at the end of June.
That is why deciduous trees and roses are ‘waking up’ as they welcome a new season of living.
We are also waking up from the ‘winter blues’ to another spring in which we become more active and many will do ‘Spring Cleaning’ in their homes and gardens.
‘Spring Fever’ is in the air and the extra sunlight hours increases our Vitamin D content if we allow our skin to have gradual exposure to the sun to build up the self protection pigments.
Sunlight is health and to get out in the morning or later afternoon at this time of the year and do some gardening will refresh the spirit and elevate the stresses of life.
Us gardeners like to grow the food we eat because we have control of what goes into our food chain and we can enhance the nutritional value and taste of our food by using natural products which include any animal manures, blood and bone, fish and seaweed extracts and compost made from healthy plant residues. (Not lawn clippings full of herbicide weed killers).
I am often asked how to grow Kumara. The sweet potato is a dicotyledonous plant that belongs to the bindweed or morning glory family, Convolvulaceae. Its large, starchy, sweet-tasting tuberous roots are used as a root vegetable.
The young shoots and leaves are sometimes eaten as greens.
Kumara contains a dietary significant amount of potassium (they are one of the highest potassium-containing vegetables).
Kumara is one of the highest carbohydrate containing vegetables so it makes an excellent source of energy. The coloured flesh and skin of kumara supply an array of phytonutrients including phenolic compounds, flavonoids and carotenoids.
Red or purple varieties contain anthocyanins (found in the skin of red varieties), and those with orange and yellow colouring are rich in beta-carotene. The richer the colour the more phytonutrients present.
Which means ideally you don’t peel Kumara just wash and roast or boil instead of throwing the goodness in the skins away.
To obtain Kumara plants one simply sprouts a Kumara tuber by placing it into a container with damp sand or growing medium so it is just buried with most of the ‘eyes’ (that where the shoots come out of) facing upwards.
You could in fact peel a Kumara with a paring knife so you are taking about
5mm of flesh with an eye and skin and place that in a container just covered with mix or sand.
The eye will sprout and form roots and when it gets to about 12cm to 15cm tall it is then ready to plant out.
If you have buried a whole tuber then when the eyes have sprouted and reached the desired length you simply lift the tuber and with a sharp knife cut the sprout off, taking a few mm of parent flesh with it and the roots that have formed.
You need to prepare a bed to grow Kumara slips in so take a plot about a 1Msq in size and remove all the soil to a bit over a spade depth.
Put the soil into your wheel barrow if you have one if not lay down a small tarp and put the soil onto that near the dug out area.
At the base of the dug out area you need to trample the soil to make a very hard base.
If you have clay base soil then make it smooth and wet it and allow to bake hard in sun light.
Another way would be to put down a piece of tight woven weed mat in fact a double layer would do nicely.
The reason is that the sprout will send down roots and when those roots hit a solid base they stop and fill out forming the tuber you harvest. If there is no base to stop the root it will carry on to China (as we say) as a shoe string root.
Once you have your solid base you are going to fill the area with the dug out soil but mixed with the likes of sheep manure pellets, blood & bone, some BioPhos, Unlocking your Soil, Wallys Calcium & Health and Ocean Solids all mixed with the soil in your wheelbarrow or tarp, and if your soil is not friable add sand to it to make it more friable.
Then to put it all back into the dug out area which it will likely be a bit higher than the surrounding area making like a small mound.
To plant your Kumara slips, lay them on the ground with the roots pointing North and back about 20mm from the end of the shoot place your fore finger and press down carefully to insert the root end into the soil in the shape of a fish hook with the foliage standing up like a little soldier.
Plant all your other sprouts the same way, about 15cm apart. If concerned about later frosts during the establishment period, some crop cover can be put over the area using ridged alkathene pipe hoops to raise it above the sprouts.
If your soil is cold where you are at planting time then part fill the area with your mix to about half full then mow the lawn and catch the grass clippings and put a good layer of them over the soil. Then fill with the rest of the mix of soil.
As the grass decomposes it will heat up the soil nicely and encourage growth plus
also supply more food for the Kumara growing. Even if your soil is warmish it still is a good idea to use the under heat to establish quicker.
If you want to grow yams you can use the same method but only make the area to grow dug out to about half a spade depth.
If you wish to grow pumpkins, squash etc you make a mound using a lot more animal manure and the other products as above.
Pumpkins etc can take a lot of room and I have in the past taken the runners up into shrubs and smaller trees so they grow and form fruit up in the branches. Otherwise allow them to run across a waste area or lawn. They can be grown under trees and shrubs and if you take a 50L container with drainage holes on the sides near the bottom, not underneath and fill with your mix and sit that in a sunny spot under the trees you can allow the runners to run up or over the ground where they are out of the way. Then you plant into the mound or container 3 pumpkin plants or place three seeds a triangle pattern and prior to planting soak them over night in a solution of Magic Botanic Liquid (MBL) they will germinate very quickly. One gardener told me within 24 hours. Zucchini, if you like them, are easy to grow and as they also take a bit of room use a 50L container and the preparation as above. Put two plants or seeds opposite each other near the rim of the container. They can then grow out of the container and produce the fruit while nicely balancing the container with their mutual weight. Sit on concrete or any where that is sunny.
There’s a lot to do now so get moving!
Becoming Stale
Sun The txt
Roundabouts
I won’t be surprised when a new roundabout gets put in on the intersection between Blicks Lane, Rene Street and Old Renwick Road.
I recently revisited a bar in town which is now under new ownership to see whether any changes had been made.
I’m glad to report the bar/restaurant still has the same happy young professional staff, which gives the bar its appeal, apart from its fine beers and food.
I feel being a regular at the one particular establishment makes you become stagnant, this bar is certainly an exception.
Car keys found
Car key found Saturday 24 August on the side of Maxwell Road between Stephenson and Whitney Streets. Key has a green ‘M’ also attached to the metal ring. Please contact The Sun paper if this key may be yours.
Road needs fixing
Wairau Bar Road is in an absolutely appalling state, there is more pot holes then road with some potholes 2mtrs long and 200mm deep. Disgraceful to let a road get this bad. Marlborough Roads it’s about time this is fixed.
Salary Joke
First we have the Green Party leaders too spineless to use a law to expel one of their own. Secondly we have the leader of the Labour Party endorsing his deputy going on a game show for weeks playing for money all the time on salaries paid for by the taxpayer, nothing short of a joke.
Re Town Asset
Can someone please explain to me where Witherlea Racecourse is. It’s been mentioned for the last couple of weeks on this page. I know Waterlea Racecourse is in Blenheim.
Alzheimers cuts
I was utterly disgusted to read in your paper on 28/08/24 that our local Alzheimers Centre has had their funding cut by $100k per year. This means they will be now be able to care for a lot less clients each month, as the number attending will be capped, when the need is in fact increasing. How cruel can this Government get.
Wind and wheelie bins
Well well so it’s blowing just like l said on the 9 July. Five wheelie bins on their sides.
Gardener’s delight
Keen veggie gardeners Gray’s Floral Gardens, Alabama Road, east of NPD fuel station, great for robust plants, smiley service too. Great to see.
Re: Refreshing
Perhaps you could let us know what your basics are? Infrastructure? Playing fields? Roads? Clean water? This government is pushing costs off its books and into local government with a view to demonising our local bodies. It’s a deeply cynical tactic and you, your hook, your line and your sinker are taking the bait and running with it.
Kiwi land
Don’t know about this. What’s wrong with New Zealand? I Don’t understand why so many are using Aotearoa, or as radio and TV say Artearoa or Oatearoa, depending on who you are listening to. As I understand it Aotearoa refers to the North Island, read the writings of the great Sir Apirana Ngata. All of the olympians were from the North Island, and businesses promoting their sales to Aotearoa are limiting their scope.
Bad ad and best ad
My opinion but I think the McDonalds McDelivery ad is disgusting. That is no way to treat children and is a really bad example of parenting. Come on McDonalds you can do better than that.
The best ad at the moment is the Purina Tux dog biscuits ad which shows that no matter how small or what sort you are, everyone should get the chance to be treated equal.
Delightful!
A & P Grounds
Apart from other obvious reasons, this asset was donated to the town by the A & P Association on the proviso that it could be used for their shows, when needed.
Council spending
With regard to the letter about the PM ticking off councils over spending.
No doubt there will be many haters willing to pillory him but what he said is what many ratepayers up and down the country have been saying for years.
Here in Marlborough we have Seddon that has been living under a boiled water notice for years and no amount of spending on car parks, theatres or libraries is going to alleviate that.
I’m not saying a library or theatre is not nice to have but surely core services should be prioritised.
River flow improvements
Contractors are going great guns at Spring Creek.
Perhaps while they are on the case they could remove debris from ferry bridge piers, then dig out the gravel build up down stream.
And while at it go to river mouth and remove build up on the south side. All to aid river flow.
Re: Show prices
I would like to support the suggestion re Show prices 28/08/24.
I lived in Melbourne for 27 years before moving back to NZ.
During that time I saw every Show, Opera, Ballet, some several times, generally on a whim of the day, by rocking up to the Ticket Office around an hour before the show started and on most occasions was able to get really good unsold seats for around 25%-50% of the full ticket price.
Real win-win, they had full houses. I had tremendous pleasurable experiences.
Ground for housing
Instead of using A and P park for housing why don’t we rip out some grapes and use that for housing.
Oh that’s right the ground is all toxic.
Re: Cyclists
Is it going to take a bad accident before there is something done about them riding on the footpath on Market St. School boys riding their bikes on the rear wheel.
Is it going to take someone to go through a shop window before something is done, hope not.
Where is the Law?
Talk of the week
Christopher Hazelden
A gentleman that we saw walking quietly around town, with flowing locks and a coffee in hand. Now in the arms of loved ones, bless. A thank you to Sowman’s for providing a farewell for Christopher, so he was laid at rest with dignity. This act really touched my heart.
Muddy fun
Heartwarming to see children revelling in being outside in a thunderstorm after dark at the Mako’s match. The deluge turned the grassy slope quickly to a mud slide. Exhilaration writ large on sodden, muddy faces as they hurtled down and clambered back up for another go. I thoroughly enjoyed the spectacle. Plastered head to toe in mud, my question is, were they hosed down before they left the ground or after they arrived home?
Thank you
A big thank you to the kind gentleman who handed in my vape to Countdown last Friday.
We welcome your texts on 027 242 5266.
Limit to 70 words please. We reserve the right to publish at our discretion. Please note the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Sun management.
Rope removed
To the miserable sod who took the rope off the swing at the end of Waipuna St, I hope it breaks on you.
The local kids and big kids all enjoyed a swing over the creek.
Providing quality care and education for children aged 3 months - 5 years, Omaka is a space for children to grow, explore and flourish as unique individuals, through a child-led, nature play based environment, where children are given the wings to fly.
Annual General Meeting
The Marlborough Ploughing Association (Inc.)
Date - Tuesday 17th September 2024
Time - 7.30pm
Venue - Woodbourne Tavern, Renwick, Back Bar
All Members and interested individuals are welcome to attend.
Out of Zone Vacancies
The Board of Trustees advises that 30 Year 7 out of zone vacancies have become available at Bohally Intermediate School for the enrolment of the 2025 Academic year.
Because the Board operates an enrolment scheme, it is required to fill any vacant out of zone places by ballot when there are more applications than places available.
This is necessary for all out of zone students including those currently in our contributing schools.
The map can be found on our website.
The board is prepared to receive applications from Monday 16th September until 3pm Tuesday 15th October.
The ballot will be held on Wednesday 16th October. Families will be notified Friday 18th October via the email address provided.
Enrolment details can be found on our school website www.bohally.school.nz
news tips
Send your tips to news@blenheimsun.co.nz
Springlands School
2025 Enrolments
Enrolment at the school is governed by an enrolment scheme, details of which are available from the school office.
The board has determined that 16 places are likely to be available for out-of-zone students next year. The exact number of places will depend on the number of applications received from students who live within the school’s home zone.
Next year there will be 2 enrolment periods.
The first enrolment period runs from 29th January 2025 to 27th June 2025.
For students seeking enrolment within the first enrolment period, the deadline for receipt of applications for out-of-zone places is 14th October 2024.
Parents of students who live within the home zone and intend enrolling their child at any time during the next year should notify the school by 14th October 2024 to assist the school to plan appropriately for next year. Application forms can be collected from the school office, 20 Murphys Road, Springlands, Blenheim or by emailing office@springlands.school.nz.
If the number of out-of-zone applications exceeds the number of places available, students will be selected by ballot. If a ballot for out-of-zone places is required, it will be held on 21st October 2025.
Parents will be informed of the outcome of the ballot within three school days of the ballot being held.
Details relating to the second enrolment period are as follows.
Length of enrolment period: from 14th July 2025 to 19th December 2025. Deadline for receipt of applications: 28th April 2025. Date of ballot: 5th May 2025.
Mo tēnei tūranga mahi | About the role
Council is seeking expressions of interest to fill flexible positions, providing service to our community. We are seeking positive, loyal, enthusiastic individuals as the first point of contact to assist our community and staff.
You will thrive in a fast-paced environment, be confident in navigating multiple systems and utilising resources to exceed customer expectations. You will answer queries and provide information on Council’s wide range of community services, receive payments and direct enquires to the correct departments to name a few. The role will include a mixture of face to face, phone interaction and digital channels, therefore, confidence in all these areas is necessary.
You will need to be a team player, be adaptable, resilient, and have a can-do attitude. In your daily duties you will need to be able to multi-task, problem solve and use initiative without compromising on quality. Backed by your excellent listening skills and clear verbal and written commination.
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply
Full details of the vacancy and how to apply can be located at https://links.marlborough.govt.nz/current-vacancies
Applications close 5.00 pm on 11 September 2024
ROBB, Marion Doreen:
Died 30 March 2024 in her 95th year. A memorial service will be held at the Beach Side Conference Centre, Tahuna Motor Camp on Saturday 14 September at 2pm. All welcome.
Judith Beauchamp, 14/05/1934 - 07/09/2023
One year has passed though wonderful memories remain of a beautiful, caring intelligent lady, one who loved flowers, fauna and many feline companions. Enjoyable cups of tea and interesting talks. Picnics by the foreshore so much fun, ice cream cones a must. Sadly missed, lovingly remembered by all her Renwick friends.
MORRISON, Francis Norman:
29 May 1945-01 September 2023
It’s been a sad year but memories can’t be taken away, so that is some comfort. All our love, Carole and all his family.
URGENT services
Urgent Care Centre: Wairau Hospital Grounds. Entry off Hospital Rd, Blenheim, 8am-8pm daily. Phone (03) 520 6377.
Wairau Hospital: Hospital Visiting Hours: Daily 2.30pm - 8pm, children under 12 may visit parents only.
Maternity Ward: 10am-noon, 4pm-7pm. Children's Ward: Daily 10am-8pm. Visiting at all times is subject to the discretion of the nurse in charge of the ward. Emergency Dentist: Contact Wairau Hospital 5209999.
Picton:
Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non-urgent 579 4870.
Chemist: Picton Healthcare Pharmacy. Ph 573 6420 Mon -Fri 8.30-5.30pm, Sat 9-2pm. Medical Centre Pharmacy, Ph 928 4265, Mon-Fri 8am-5.30pm
In Memoriam
or phone 577 7868. Remember your lost loved one on their anniversary.
Death notices
BARRATT, William (Bill):
Passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 31, 2024. Aged 95 years. Beloved husband of the late Rachel. Dearly loved Dad and father-in-law of Mark and Jenny, Michele (Shelly) and Phillip, Sue and Derek, and loved by Rachel’s family. Loved granddad of Aimee, Joel, Benn, Luke, Daniel, Chelsea, and great-granddad of eight. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Patricia (d. 1979). Special thanks to the caring staff at Seaview Rest Home. Messages may be sent to 73 Kent Street, Picton 7220. In accordance with Bill’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place. ‘Your eyes will see the King in His beauty and behold a land that stretches afar’. Forever in our hearts and memories.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz
W: www.sowmans.co.nz
HEENAN, William (Bill):
On 25 August 2024, passed away peacefully at home after a long battle, aged 90 years. At Bill’s request, a private cremation has taken place with a Memorial Service to be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street on Saturday 7 September at 1.00pm. Bill’s wishes were for bright clothing to be worn
Cloudy Bay Funerals 03 578
HOLDAWAY, Allan Stanley: Passed away at Maxwell Lifecare 26th August 2024 in his 78th Year. Loved Son of Ron and Grace Holdaway (deceased). Loved Husband of the late Glenis. Dearly loved Father and Father-in-law of Leigh, Melanie and Allan, Gregory and Rovena. Beloved Bundy to Bella, Tom and Emma, Eddie, Stan and Ruby. A special thanks to the wonderful teams at Waterlea Rest Home Forget me not Wing and Maxwell Lifecare for your loving support for Allan and Family. Messages may be sent to The Holdaway Family, 103 Wither Road Blenheim or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A celebration of Allan’s life has been held. The service was live streamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services Website.
Bay Funerals
MANEY, Desmond Douglas (Des): Passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 31, 2024. Aged 96 years. Loved husband of the late Diana and father to Simon, Lelia, and Nicholas. Grandfather to Elite and Casey and great grandfather to Arjun. Anchors Away. Messages may be sent to 5 Suffolk Street, Picton 7220. A Requiem Mass for Desmond will be celebrated at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 5 Otago Street, Picton at 9.30am TODAY Wednesday, September 4, followed by private cremation at the Sowman Crematorium.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz
W: www.sowmans.co.nz
JOHNSTON, Peter Kenneth: Born Aniseed Valley, Nelson 09.11.1926. Died Blenheim 29.08.2024. In his 98th year, in the excellent loving care of Staff at Ashwood Retirement Village, Blenheim. Formerly of Henderson Auckland, Mount Maunganui Tauranga and Blenheim. A Life well lived as a Tramper/Mountain Climber, St. John’s Paramedic/Tutor, Member of SARs, Wood Worker’s Guild, Wood Turner, (supplier of excellent hand-made rocking chairs to family) Masonic Lodge Free Mason, Sheep Shearer and Foreman Stevedore for the USSCo. at Port of Auckland and Port of Tauranga. Dearest Brother of Gillian James, and the late Joan Hunt, and the late Garry Johnston. Devoted and much-loved husband of the late Pat (Garratt) and the late Molly (Webber-Borman). Dearly loved and special Dad and dad-in-law, of Kathryn & Warren, Helen, Gus and Lynnaire, Bruce and Debbie. Dearly loved step-dad and good friend of Ann, Denis and the late Jeanette, Gary and Diana, Peter and Linda. Adored, fun loving, rocking-horse and gocart maker Grandad and Great-Grandad of the Johnston, Trezise, Edwards, and Borman Families. Adored uncle, great-uncle, brother-in-law and cousin of the Johnston, James, Garratt and Borman Families. Messages to PO Box 9 7240, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, Blenheim or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz. According to Peter’s wishes a private cremation has taken place.
Cloudy Bay Funerals
03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z.
NATHAN, Lyree Gaye:
On Tuesday 27 August 2024, suddenly at her home, aged 58 years. Dearly loved Mum of Kiriana Nathan and nana of Taiki-Johnson. Loved friend of Sonny. Messages to 57 Eskdale Road, Porirua 5024 or www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A celebration of Lyree’s life will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street, Blenheim on Wednesday 4 September at 1.00pm followed by private cremation. The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
Cloudy Bay Funerals
03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z.
WOODWARD, Judy:
Passed away peacefully with her daughters at her side, on Saturday 24th August 2024, aged 77 years. Much loved and cherished Mum and Mother-in-Law of Sara and Darryl, Georgie and Regan. Very special Nana to Hannah, Hazel and Maeve. Loved sister of Mary Hayes and Rose Arbuckle (deceased). Messages to 10 Temple Mews Renwick 7204 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Waterlea Resthome and Wairau Hospital. At Judy’s request a private farewell and cremation has been held.
Cloudy Bay Funerals 03 578 2004
NATHAN, Lyree Gaye (Lulu): Loving daughter of Sheila (Fairy) Simpson and Roger Nathan (Huntly) Loved sister of Donna (Brisbane), Tina (Christchurch) and the late Jason. Loved by her Aunties and Uncles, cousins aplenty and her many friends. An Angel for God’s Garden Love you my Darling Forever From your Mummy
Cloudy Bay Funerals
No roof for bowling club
Whitehead Park Bowling Green Club member and spokesperson Mike Ponder says the decision from the MDC to not fund 1.7 million dollars to put a roof over the green has been met with ‘bewilderment, sadness, and astonishment’, by Marlborough’s lawn bowlers.
By Chris Valli
Marlborough’s lawn bowlers asked the Marlborough District Council in June for 1.7 million dollars to put a roof over the Whitehead Park Bowling Green in Redwoodtown.
However, the request, as part of the Council’s Long Term Plan submissions, has been declined. A Council spokesperson last week says the outcome, confirmed at the Council meeting on July 31 was that ‘the funding request from Whitehead Park Bowling Club Inc be declined’.
At the time of submissions, a Council spokesperson says during the deliberation process, Councillors decided to decline the application and refer the request to the Assets and Services Committee for further investigation.
Club member and spokesperson Mike Ponder says the decision has been met with ‘bewilderment, sadness, and astonishment’, by Marlborough’s lawn bowlers.
“I am told we can apply again in three
Local Karate students shine
Blenheim Seido Karate students competed in the Seido Karate Top of the South Junior Tournament in Nelson recently, competing with other juniors from Nelson, Motueka and the Westcoast. They competed in age groups and were judged on their technique and spirit.
During the tournament there were some fantastic examples of Kata (techniques done in a pattern), Shia (freestyle techniques), sparring and weapons. The Blenheim team had a very successful tournament with all of them being placed and receiving medals for their efforts.
Seido Karate runs beginners classes from
5.30pm at the Senior Citizens Hall on High Street, with all ages welcome. For more information phone Eric on 027 281 6436.
RIGHT: A VERY SUCCESSFUL TOURNAMENT:
Blenheim Seido Karate students from left to right: Sam Molony who came 2nd in Green belt Kata, Lennox Radka who came 3rd in Blue Belt Kata and 4th in Shia, Finn-Lee Jenkins who came 1st Blue Belt Shia and 2nd in Kata, Amelie Molony came 2nd in Blue Belt Shia and 3rd in Kata, and Cooper Murray came 2nd in Blue belt Kata and 2nd in Shia.
years’ time. Good God, by then many of us who have worked so hard to get a roof will be too old, or dead, and the cost to build the roof will be a hell of a lot bloody dearer than the price we were quoted,” he explains.
Mike says he would have thought the most prudent course of action by the Council, and the outcome he expected, would have been for them to sit on the application while detailed investigations were made to secure sources of finance, and what grants would be available to help fund the roof.
“Remembering always, of course, that Whitehead Park is owned by the Council, so the new roof, regardless who pays for it, would belong to them. A wonderful asset growing in appreciation over the years for Marlburians,” he says.
The new roof Mike claims would enable lawn bowls to be played, regardless of the weather, and at night. The Whitehead Park complex he says has attracted national and regional tournaments, bringing a much needed boost to the accommodation and hospitality
industry in Blenheim. Currently there are 10 bowling clubs in Marlborough with 423 bowlers paying full membership and over 1000 playing socially. Mike says for the sport to continue to grow Marlborough must have an all-weather bowling facility.
There are 12 bowling facilities throughout the country that have greens which are covered with roofed facilities in Dunedin and Invercargill.
The Tauranga South Bowling Club opened their facility with a new roof in May.
A Council spokesperson says the MDC Sports Strategic Facilities Plan 2021 suggests a multisport approach when making decisions on large capital investments.
“Speaking on behalf of the many hundreds of lawn bowlers in Marlborough I would appeal to the Council to re-look, and reconsider our application, and to sit down with us to try and find a way forward on this vital issue that will have an enormous bearing on the future of our amazing sport,” Mike says.
Golf Results
‘Massive achievement’ for BSC
By Chris Valli
The Blenheim Swim Club did themselves proud at the recent 2024 Apollo Project New Zealand Short Course Swimming Championships in Auckland with a total of 13 medals.
Held at the Sir Owen G Glenn Aquatic Centre, from August 20 – 24, seven Blenheim Swimming Club members competed including; Jack Bugler - Para Multi Class, Jack Love (18), Jessica Lovell (17), Nicola Lovell (15), Finn McNabb (16), Quinn Verran (13) and Max Skehan (16).
Thirteen medals at a national meet is a massive achievement for the team who have been training under new coach Shane Skehan for the last 18 months.
The highlights of the championships were Jack Love winning his first national medal, with a gold and two silvers. Jack also achieved personal bests at the champs. Jack Bugler achieved three personal bests and New Zealand relay records while Nicola came home with five bronze medals. Jessica finished a credible fifth in
the 50 fly and 13-year-old Quinn also achieved personal bests. Meanwhile, a recent quiz night to raise funds for new and improved dive starting blocks at the Stadium 2000 pool raised just over $10,000 for the club. A spokesperson says they have raised about 20 percent of the target and says the club is in the process of putting together sponsorship packages to approach businesses.
The total cost of the project, including the blocks, backstroke ledges, freight, concrete tiling, and GST is $122,000. Shane says having up to date blocks will make a significant difference to all swimmers who compete at meets around the country from our newest juniors through to the senior and age group swimmers competing at the national and international level.
77. Thurs 22 Aug-Tony Calvert 41;Jeff Pascoe 39;Gary Aldridge 37;Ian Johnson 35,Paul Howden 35;David Bunt 33. Sat 24 Aug Nett-Art Blom 73,Ian Aldridge 73;Jeff Pascoe 74;Tony Calvert 75;Richard Avery 76,Mark Ivamy76,Maria McConway 76;Aaron Wilson 77,Nick Wright 77;Phil Hawke 78. Thurs 29 Aug S/F-Warren Robertson 36,Gary Aldridge 36;Jelle Keizer 33:Jeff Pascoe 32;Graham Couldrey 31. Fri 30 Aug 9H Scambled Eggs-Mary Butler 20,Helen McIsaac 20;Shirley Smith 18,Dido Harper 18,Denise Finch 18,Lynette
The pride of Blenheim Swim Club: Will Atkinson, Max Skehan, Jessica Lovell, Jack Bugler, Finn McNabb, Nicola Lovell, Jack Love, Quinn Verran, Shane Skehan (coach). The team picked up 13 medals in Auckland under the tutelage of new coach Shane Skehan.
Pearce 18,Judy Jones 18.
PrecisioN agriculTural droNe services
viNeyard sPrayiNg
Whether you want to enhance your vineyard’s output or control invasive weeds, our cutting-edge drone technology is here to help you succeed.
Weed sPrayiNg
Our drone-based weed spraying service offers a highly efficient solution to combat invasive plant species such as gorse, old man’s beard, blackberry, thistles, wilding pines, willow and banana passionfruit, on any scale.
seediNg
Choose our drone seed spraying service for precision, efficiency, and sustainability, and watch your agricultural endeavours flourish like never before.
“I used Alex from AgriDroneSpecialists for early season spraying on pears and grapes while the ground was too wet for tractors and sprayers. The spraying was very accurate and water rates were the same as computerised spraying equipment from the tractor.
I found Alex to be thorough, professional, and precise. I highly recommend AgriDroneSpecialists for targeted spraying and mapping work”
