Blenheim florist Nina Stanley wouldn’t have wanted a story about her in the local paper. That was the sort of person she was, according to Dad Graeme. Nina died from stomach/gastric cancer on January 20, 2024 after the discovery of a tumour which blocked her stomach resulted in a feeding tube into her intestine for up to 13 hours a day. The full time respite care meant Dad Graeme and Mum Edna were her primary caregivers at their Burden Street home. Monday marks one year since her death, leaving a void for family and friends as vast as the Yealands Estate Winery, in the Awatere Valley, a place of personal significance to the 47-year-old.
Continued on page 2.
BLENHEIM’S BLOSSOM: Late Blenheim florist Nina Stanley has been made an Honorary Member by international charity World Skills (vocational skills competition) in recognition of ‘many years’ of distinguished service as a New Zealand florist of fine repute.
Photo: Jessica Jones Photography
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‘Always Daddy’s girl’
Continued from page 1.
Eight months after her death, Nina was made an Honorary Member by World Skills (established 1953), in recognition of ‘many years’ of distinguished service as a florist of fine repute. The award was handed to Michael Naus, an aircraft engineer at Woodbourne Air Force. Michael was in Lyon, France at a conference and accepted the honour on Nina’s behalf. Michael, by his own volition, contacted Nina’s oldest sister who suggested contacting ‘Dad’ in Blenheim.
Referred to as the ‘Skills Olympics’, Nina competed, networked, and up-skilled at various conferences worldwide showcasing the floral skills and arrangements she possessed as a ‘chief expert’. Peter Spencer, World Skills New Zealand CEO says World Skills was a chance to showcase New Zealand tradespeople to the rest of the world.
Nina was the middle child of three (oldest Kim in Australia, Nina, and younger brother Todd) to proud parents Edna and Graeme. Graeme says she was a people person, “very much so”.
When asked to describe who Nina was, the raw pain and emotion from Edna is palpable.
“She was a very caring, talented girl,” her Mum says. “I can always remember when she was offered a (three year) apprenticeship with Ann Ede in Redwoodtown after leaving school. Nina was actually camping with her mates up near Pelorus Bridge so I drove to Pelorus to tell her that she had a full time
job if she wanted one.”
It was good fortune Nina accepted as she found her niche in floriculture, with a special artistic talent to make flowers look attractive, albeit the new vocation coming with the odd frustration.
“She came home one day after work and said I’m nothing but a bloody chrysanthemum basher Mum. She said I have to sit on the floor and bash the stalks with a hammer,” Edna recalls. “She would go out of her way to find flowers for somebody if they wanted something special.”
An opportunity to work as an AU Pair/nanny in Denver, Colorado, presented itself for Nina as a 20-year-old before returning to Wellington managing a florist shop, right next to Parliament. The location of the florist came with a personal lanyard with access to the Prime Minister’s room upstairs to assort and arrange flowers.
Her favourite flower Graeme says was the poppy. The love of poppies culminated in the name of her Blenheim business ‘Pinky Poppy Designer Florist’ in John Street. Nina’s urn for her ashes was decorated with yellow sunflowers, a true testament. As per Nina’s wishes she requested for her immediate family and a small number of friends to meet at one of her favourite places in Marlborough, Yealands White Road.
“It was very fitting to see the sunflowers adorn the road on the drive there. Nina chose this place as she often made trips there as she loved
overlooking the sea, says Graeme. Edna says Nina’s death is still felt by many. One of her close friends continues to bring around a cooked meal for them both once a week while others often bring around baking and call in to see them.
“We knew they (World Skills) held her in pretty high standards,” says Graeme. “We were, are extremely proud. She was a bit of a Daddy’s girl in a way, and was always up for a walk around the streets with me. I miss that.”
Our professional and caring team are here to guide you every step of the way.
With our modern chapel and facilities, you can bid farewell in comfort and style.
Pink Poppy apprentice Aroha Hebberd pictured with Nina. Aroha was named New Zealand’s best apprentice florist, an honour which took her and Nina (as judge) to London in 2011. Photo: Celeste Alexander (nee Lodewyk).
Expect to be stopped if on phone
By Chris Valli
Road safety is everybody’s responsibility yet it seems some Marlborough drivers think they are above the law, four years on from legislation.
A Marlborough police officer who looks after road policing says anyone using a cell phone while driving can expect to be stopped if sighted.
Area Prevention Manager Senior Sergeant Peter Payne says Police will continue to be out in force on the region’s roads over the summer period, targeting unsafe driver behaviour and making sure everyone gets where they’re going safely.
The comment comes after comments on social media from locals expressing their frustration and concern with the amount of Blenheim drivers who approach a number of the town’s roundabouts and intersections with their heads down and distracted by potential cell phone use.
A Blenheim Sun reader, who did not want to be named, is questioning the high number of people in Blenheim using mobile phones while driving lately.
“It’s getting real bad. I often drive past people with their head down or phone up to their ears,” the person says. “It’s become the norm for most drivers and yet there seems to be no presence whatsoever to reinforce such behaviour from Marlborough Police.”
When the Blenheim Sun asked what resourcing or police roading staff are in the region to issue infringement notices Senior Sergeant Payne says individual road policing staff are not tasked to enforce any one behaviour.
“Police focus on the four main behaviours that lead to death or serious injury on our roads,” he says. “Distraction is one of these factors and any police officer who sees a driver using a cell phone can take enforcement action. This is in addition to routine checkpoints targeting the use of cell phones.
“Anyone using a cell phone while driving can expect to be stopped if sighted.”
Using a cell phone while driving results in 20 demerit points and a $150 fine. The penalty was increased from $80 in April 2021. This includes making or
receiving calls, sending or reading texts, and using the phone for navigation or music.
However, drivers can use a cell phone to make a call while driving only if it is an emergency situation and unsafe or impracticable to stop the vehicle to make the call.
In 2023, a Radio New Zealand story reported that Police had tripled the fines doled out for drivers talking on their cell phone while driving in four years, to six million.
Marlborough Police Senior
Constable Russ Smith in 2023 said on some days in Marlborough, police issue a dozen or more infringement notices to people who drive while using devices such as cell phones.
“A number of us are a bit slow to learn well-established facts, like using a mobile device while behind the wheel causes major distraction from the task of driving,” he said.
Under current legislation, drivers can lose their license if they accumulate 100 or more demerit points within a two-year period.
Sun The
Safer boating workshops
A few spots remain on a series of free safer boating workshops being offered by Council’s Nautical and Coastal Team aimed at safer boating education for all watercraft users including vessels, jet skis, paddle boards and kayakers.
The workshops are being held on 25 January, 8 February, 1 March and 15 March. Lunch is provided. Bookings can be made by emailing harbours@marlborough.govt.nz or ph: 03 520 7400 to register your interest.
Blenheim CBD summer market
Pure Events Marlborough is bringing back this iconic market once again.
The summer market is the day before the Wine & Food Festival on Friday, February 7 from 9am – 5pm.
The event will take place down Market, Wynen and Charles Streets and in Market Place with a selection of approximately 80 new and old favourite stalls showcasing their products, alongside great entertainment, delicious savoury food, coffee, desert & ice-cream carts.
E Bike to the Light
The Seddon Lions Club fundraiser to ebike to Cape Campbell Lighthouse takes place on February 16. The ride departs at The Homestead, 301 Ward Beach Rd, 3km off SH1. Places are limited – email seddonlionsclub@ gmail.com or enquiries to Kevin 0274 486 215 or Neal 027 2089 172. Funds raised go towards the Flaxbourne Heritage Centre project.
Area Prevention Manager Senior Sergeant Peter Payne says any Police officer who sees a driver using a cell phone can take enforcement action. “This is in addition to routine checkpoints targeting the use of cell phones,” he says.
Sun The
Living Cultural Treasure
Nominations for the next Marlborough Living Cultural Treasure close at 5pm this Friday, January 24. The 2025 award will be presented at a formal ceremony in April. It is open to individuals who have made an extraordinary, inspiring and significant contribution to cultural endeavour in Marlborough throughout their lifetime. Ideally, they have also shared their knowledge and passion with the community, helping to inspire future generations.
For more information go to www. marlborough.govt.nz/our-community/ grants-and-awards/marlborough-livingcultural-treasure-award
SH1 Blenheim roundabout
resurfacing
State highway summer maintenance continues in Marlborough with two busy Blenheim roundabouts to be resealed early next month. The State Highway 1/State Highway 6 Nelson Street roundabout will be the first to be resurfaced with night works planned from Sunday, 2 February until Tuesday, 4 February, between 7pm and 5am.
During this time the roundabout will be closed to all traffic to allow for asphalting work to be carried out and a local road detour will be in place. Contractors will then carry out night works on the State Highway 1 Main Street roundabout from Sunday, 9 February, until Wednesday, 12 February, between 7pm and 5am.
Mark Owen, Regional Manager Wellington/Top of the South, says the work is deliberately planned to coincide with Weld Pass night closures.
Dr Dave swims for dyslexia
By Chris Valli
It’s amazing where life can take an individual after high school. Just ask Spring Creek resident, Dr Dave Edgar.
Dr Egdar is an accomplished marathon swimmer and endurance athlete and is swimming the Foveaux Strait to complete the New Zealand Triple Crown (Lake Taupo, Cook Strait) of marathon swimming. On February 7 (weather dependent) he is swimming the 28km’s from Rakiura/Stewart Island to Bluff.
As a kid, dyslexia was a term he admits he ‘can’t remember’. “I’ve never actually been officially diagnosed with dyslexia. The challenges I faced with reading, writing and spelling fit the bracket of dyslexia/dyspraxia,” he says.
“I know I had it. I was diagnosed with having a learning disability at high school with reader recorders for my exams and adult learning support at university.”
“It became my strength as I got older because I had more time to write up in my own time and going back day after day. My lecturer (through the triathlon club) saw my ideas but said I see you’ve got some good ideas here but there’s something up,” he says.
Dave attended adult learn to write class and how to write an essay, at 27 and concedes “how on earth did I get through school without even knowing how to
write an essay?”
Dyslexia is a learning disability which affects how the brain processes written language and can impact reading, writing, spelling, and maths.
Dave, 53, is a “born and bred Tokoroa boy” (Waikato). After leaving school he worked in a bush gang, with Black Power, conceding what he thought “that was his lot”.
However, he “pushed on through” with triathlon opening various opportunities for him, racing semi-professional for a few years, living in Rotorua and represented New Zealand at five world triathlons and duathlon championships.
Dave then joined the army in 1994 as a steward with five years’ service, culminating in working in the mines with his future wife Karen, before studying Sports Science at Otago University leading to a Masters and PHD.
“I never thought I’d have a degree yet alone having achieved a PHD,” he says.”
Returning to Waikato he landed a position as the head trainer for the Waikato Rugby Team and worked as the assistant trainer with the Chiefs. In 2009, he moved to Samoa to take on the role as the strength conditioning coach completing three rugby world cups and a 17 year relationship with Manu Samoa culminating in the 2023 Rugby
Blenheim’s Dr Dave Edgar (pictured in Cook Strait) is swimming Foveaux Strait on February 7 to complete the New Zealand Triple Crown (Lake Taupo, Cook Strait). “I became accustomed to failing and not achieving, after a while I learnt that I learned in a different way. I’m not scared to take on challenges,” he says.
World cup in France.
In 2016, Dave went back to the New Zealand as a ‘Human Performance Scientist’ for the Defence Force where as a Major worked in Research and Development looking at injuries, Enhanced Performance, Recruitment and Special Forces. One year ago Dave moved into a position in charge of Physical Performance for Army, Airforce and Navy from Burnham – Devonport.
“I absolutely love a physical challenge and often training in the water at Waikawa in the Sounds and in the water at 5:30am and I love it,” he says. “It’s about
advocating for dyslexia awareness and the challenges I faced as a teenager which shaped me as the person I am today.”
A fundraiser for the Foveaux swim will be held at CBD Eatery, Queen Street on Friday January 31 at 6:45pm with an auction at 8pm. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at CBD which includes nibbles and non-alcoholic drinks.
A Give a Little page – and his $30,000 goal - has been set at www. givealittle.co.nz/ cause/dr-dave-swims-dr-davidedgar-swimming-the-foveaux?ref=home&ref_code=donation_feed
MAN WITH A PAN - SENIORS SOCIAL CLUB
Age Concern Marlborough invites you to join Bobby, Carol and Kim. Connect Church Hall
Thursday 30th January 11am - 1pm
Come for a coffee, come for a chat. This is a FREE fortnightly class.
Want to try your hand at cooking... (not only healthy food but cakes and puddings).
Kim and Carol are ready with their aprons on to share their kitchen know-how.
Not only are there some fantastic cooking advice/ideas there will also be cards/dominos and board games if you wanted to just sit back and enjoy the food.
Bobby, Kim and Carol are looking forward to meeting you!
Please call the office at Age Concern to get your name on the list ph 03 579 3457
DOC rangers rescue tramper
By Chris Valli
Two experienced DOC rangers and a hut warden were in the right place at the right time to help a hiker who got into trouble near Mt. Angelus in the Nelson Lakes National Park last week.
The rangers were camping in the area while carrying out kea monitoring work when they heard someone calling for help at about 9pm on Tuesday, January 14 just after heavy fog rolled into the area with a southerly change.
After about two hours, realising the person calling hadn’t moved location during that time and fearing they were injured, the rangers set off a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) and reached DOC staff via
radio so police could be alerted.
At the same time, a hiker staying in Angelus Hut saw an empty bunk and recalled passing a woman on the north ridge of Mt. Angelus, so alerted the hut warden.
The warden carried out a coordinated search until about 1am, but weren’t moving far because of the fog. The poor conditions forced the search to pause until first light.
Early on Wednesday morning, the four people searching resumed the coordinated search in the fog. After a few hours, they found the hiker on the edge of some bluffs below the north ridge of Mt. Angelus but couldn’t get to her.
The hiker was not hurt but was cold and wet, as she had left most of her tramping gear at Angelus Hut.
In the meantime, two LandSAR Teams assembled but could not fly in by helicopter due to the weather conditions, so were preparing to travel across Lake Rotoiti by boat and then head in on foot.
The rangers tried a different route and made their way carefully down to the hiker’s position. They warmed her up and walked her back up to the ridge and down to Angelus Hut. The weather conditions remained poor throughout the day and with the steep terrain, the recovery took until mid-afternoon.
The SAR teams were stood down just before being deployed as it became clear the two rangers had the situation in hand. After a night in Angelus Hut, the rangers
and the hiker walked out together on Thursday.
Ricki Mitchell, one of the rangers involved, says they were determined to find the hiker and it was an amazing moment to get her back.
“The lesson to be learned is if you’re going out, even for a short trip from the hut, tell someone your intentions and make sure you’re carrying good equipment, including a PLB and head torch, at all times. The conditions just change up there so quickly.
“Having the right gear and technology like GPS made a real difference, knowing we had everything we needed to be safe. When you’re up there traversing scree and navigating drop-offs
and can only see a few metres, it’s pretty intense.
“We were lucky it worked out the way it did, given the horrendous weather. If she had to stay out another night, there was a real risk of hypothermia.”
DOC’s Nelson Lakes Operations Manager John Wotherspoon says the hiker was in challenging terrain, and it was fortunate there were competent and experienced DOC field staff in the area that could safely get to the woman to rescue her without putting themselves at undue risk. Anyone heading into the backcountry is reminded to follow the Land Safety Code, which has five simple rules to help keep people safe:
Mt Angelus in clear conditions last Thursday. The rescue took place in the central area of the photo. DOC’s Nelson Lakes Operations Manager John Wotherspoon says it was fortunate there were competent and experienced DOC field staff in the area that could safely get to the woman to rescue her. Photo: DOC.
What was the highlight for you at the 20th Picton Maritime
Seeing
Great
see
The sunshine, the views and the
Hearing my
Kiwi Steel Rodeo winner
Congratulations to Blenheim Sun reader John Yarrall who answered the following question from last week’s story about Kiwi Steel Rodeo coming to Eastern States Speedway this Saturday night.
The question was how long has Neil been running Freestyle NZ shows around the country? Answer – 13 years. It is the first time the show has come to Blenheim. Congratulations John. Your family pass will be emailed to you from Kiwi Steel Rodeo this week.
New mooring installed
If you’re fishing in the waters around Rangitoto ki te Tonga, D’Urville Island, this summer, you might come across science at work.
A new mooring has been installed by Plant & Food Research, to the southwest of the island in Tasman Bay.
The mooring will be home to the first prototype fish pen that is part of Plant & Food Research’s new open ocean aquaculture system being trialled this year.
The prototype pen and its supporting technology will get a test drive before fish are introduced to the pen later in the summer.
The pen will be submerged approximately 10-15m below the surface and will swing around the mooring within the bounds of four navigation aids (cardinal marks) that mark the four corners of the trial area.
As per the local bylaws, people are advised to not use any of the buoys or navigation markers for mooring.
If you’re interested in learning more about our ocean aquaculture research, check out the Plant & Food Research webpage: https://www.plantandfood.com/ en-nz/open-ocean-aquaculture
Festival at the weekend?
We
a
Waitaria Bay jetty to be closed
A routine inspection has found some of the structural components in the Waitaria Bay jetty in the Marlborough Sounds have deteriorated since its last inspection in mid-2023.
Marlborough Roads Transport Recovery Manager Steve Murrin said the old jetty was well past its prime.
“Unfortunately over the last 18 months the deterioration has accelerated quickly. Our contracted inspectors WSP have recommended the jetty be closed immediately. Council and Marlborough Roads support their recommendation.”
The identified defects include failed corbels (supports) and loss of piles and bolted connections, Steve says.
“Unfortunately in certain conditions, such as rough seas, overloading or a vessel strike, these defects could cause a sudden collapse of the jetty. If the jetty were to remain open to the public there is a high risk to the safety of its users.”
“Signage and barriers will be put in place as soon as possible.”
Steve noted that the resource consent process to replace the jetty was well underway.
“We hope a new jetty will be able to be constructed later this year, if all goes to plan with the design and
construction process.”
In the meantime, it’s recommended that users use the nearby jetty at Fish Bay.
Work is underway to determine if, with minor repairs, the jetty could be reopened until construction of the new jetty starts.
The jetty was damaged in the August 2022 storm. A landslide lifted the
section of the jetty closest to land and shunted the seaward portion of the jetty forward. At the time, some emergency maintenance was undertaken to reopen it, with a load restriction of five people at a time on the jetty imposed.
A drop-in meeting on Sounds transport issues will be held at the Portage Resort on Thursday 20 February from 2pm to 4pm.
Sue Schwass Blenheim
Watching the kids who made the rafts as they were all determined to finish despite all the rafts actually sinking.
Philippa Hyndman Blenheim
workmate win the big prize and spending time watching the fireworks from Shelley Beach.
Trish Wakelin Blenheim
summer atmosphere. Was great.
Steve Walken Christchurch
to
the festival highlighting the maritime history such as the Edwin Fox.
Ruth Bray Blenheim
all the families enjoying themselves and children participating in a wide variety of activities.
Earle Williams and Natalie Joubert
had
hard time resisting the sweet aromas drifting across the bay as we came into the harbor in the evening.
A routine inspection has found some of the structural components of the Waitaria Bay jetty in the Marlborough Sounds have deteriorated since the last inspection in mid-2023.
Waitaria Bay jetty closed
A routine inspection has found some of the structural components in the Waitaria Bay jetty in the Marlborough Sounds have deteriorated significantly since its last inspection in mid-2023, resulting in its closure.
Marlborough Roads Transport
Recovery Manager Steve Murrin said the old jetty was well past its prime.
“Unfortunately over the last 18 months the deterioration has accelerated quickly. Our contracted inspectors WSP recommended the jetty be closed immediately. Council and Marlborough Roads support their recommendation.”
The identified defects include failed corbels (supports) and loss of piles and bolted connections, Mr Murrin said.
“Unfortunately in certain conditions, such as rough seas, overloading or
a vessel strike, these defects could cause a sudden collapse of the jetty. If the jetty were to remain open to the public there is a high risk to the safety of its users.”
Signage and barriers are now in place.
Mr Murrin noted that the resource consent process to replace the jetty was well underway.
“We hope a new jetty will be able to be constructed later this year, if all goes to plan with the design and construction process.”
In the meantime, it’s recommended that users use the nearby jetty at Fish Bay.
Mr Murrin said work was underway to determine if, with minor repairs, the jetty could be reopened until construction of the new jetty starts.
Keep footpaths clear of vegetation
Now is a good time to get out the clippers and prune back any branches or vegetation overhanging the footpath from your property.
This is required to keep footpaths safe and accessible for all users, be it the postie, someone with a guide dog or a push chair.
If you rent the property, check with the property manager or owner as to who is responsible.
Footpath and overhanging vegetation inspections take place throughout the year so your early attention may save you being issued a reminder notice.
Thanks for looking after our footpath users and keeping Marlborough safe, tidy and accessible.
The jetty was damaged in the August 2022 storm. A landslide lifted the section of the jetty closest to land and shunted the seaward portion of the jetty forward. At the time, some emergency maintenance was undertaken to reopen
it, with a load restriction of five people at a time on the jetty imposed.
A drop-in meeting on Sounds transport issues will be held at the Portage Resort on Thursday 20 February from 2pm to 4pm.
Spaces still available on Safer Boating Workshops
A few spots remain on a series of free safer boating workshops being offered this summer by Council’s Nautical and Coastal Team.
Funded through Maritime New Zealand, the four Safer Boating Workshops are aimed at education for all watercraft users including vessels, jet skis, paddle boards and kayakers. The workshops are being held on 25 January, 8 February, 1 March and 15 March.
Topics covered include ‘what to know before you go’, boat skipper responsibilities, and tips and tricks. Lunch is provided.
Bookings can be made by emailing harbours@ marlborough.govt.nz or Ph: 03 520 7400 to register your interest. Spaces are limited.
Temporary alcohol ban Renwick
A temporary alcohol ban will be in force over the public areas of High Street, Renwick from the intersection of Anglesea Street to the eastern side of the intersection of Alma Street), Inkerman Street (from the High Street intersection to the driveway of 31 Inkerman Street), Uxbridge Street (from the High Street intersection to the Renwick Fire Station and extending around the skatepark and tennis courts) and Alma Street (from the High Street intersection to the southern boundary of 4 Alma Street), for 24 hours from 6am Saturday 8 February to 6am Sunday 9 February 2025 for the Marlborough Wine and Food Festival.
Council committee meetings
The following meetings are open to the public and anyone is welcome to attend. Copies of the agendas will be available online and at Council’s Office, 15 Seymour Street.
Assets and Services
Tuesday 28 January at 9am
Environment and Planning
Thursday 30 January at 9am
Economic, Finance and Community
Tuesday 11 February at 9am
Public Forum
A public forum will be held prior to the Economic, Finance and Community Committee meeting, starting at 8.30am. If you wish to address the Committee you will need to confirm your attendance and speaking time with the Committee Secretary the Friday prior to the meeting. Please note topics are restricted to the agenda items or those within the Committee’s delegation.
The times and dates may be subject to change, please contact the Committee Secretary, Ph: 03 520 7400 for confirmation.
Waitaria Bay jetty
Photo Credit: Bayleys
A Marlborough Murder Mystery
Havelock Community Theatre’s upcoming comedy Stage Fright - a play within a play – is directed by local writer Julia Daniel. As Chris Valli discovers, theatre in Havelock creates theatre in its purest form, theatre by the community for the community.
Something rather unique was created in January 1999 with the Havelock Theatre Company founded by actor/ playwright Don Edwards.
The first production was ‘The Haunted Through Lounge and Recessed Dining Room at Farndale Castle’ by David McGillviray and Walter Zerlin Jnr. In 2010 and 2013, Havelock Community Theatre won the then Trust Power Marlborough Community Awards for Arts and Culture. The citations commented that the HCT provided the community with top class theatre and added to Marlborough’s strong reputation as a region with a vibrant theatre culture.
In 2025, a new vibrancy and ensemble of local actors are about to take the stage with a comedy called ‘Stage Fright – a Marlborough Murder Mystery’.
Local writer and Director Julia Daniel returned to scriptwriting last year. A performance of her one-act play ‘Waiting For Godwits’ won the Distinction Award for Production of a New Zealand Play at the regional TheatreFest competition in Christchurch in August while in October her script ‘Rain Stops Play’ was Highly Commended in the New Zealand Playwrights Association annual oneact play competition.
Julia and husband Don have lived in Havelock for just over six years. The attraction of Havelock she says was the realisation that they no longer needed to be living in Auckland.
“We’d had a connection with the Marlborough region for a number of years, and knew it was somewhere we would feel at home,” she says.
Julia, originally from Newcastle
upon Tyne in the north east of England, was a secondary school teacher of Drama and English in the United Kingdom, later freelancing and taking on a variety of drama education work, including corporate training and professional role-playing.
Stage Fright is the eighth HCT show she has been involved with and concedes her first three years in Havelock, she kept a low profile, keeping her background in theatre under her hat.
“Being on stage gives you a real high but at the same time it can be quite terrifying.”
“In 2021 I took on the costuming of one of the shows. I did wardrobe for three productions before being lured back on stage at the end of 2022 when somebody had to pull out of ‘A Christmas Carol’ and suddenly I was Mrs Cratchit,” she says.
Julia is a firm believer that HCT creates authentic community theatre in its purest form - theatre by the community, for the community.
“We may not be about to win any Laurence Olivier Awards but we do our best and we have so much fun along the way. It’s this camaraderie and friendship that binds the theatre group together and it’s what motivates some to travel from outside of the Havelock area to perform with us.”
“Many of our shows over the years
EMRACING THE CHAOS:
Havelock Community Theatre’s play ‘Stage Fright’ opens tomorrow night. Pictured is Director Julia Daniel flanked by Lady and Lord Winceyette (Ursula Paul and Ian Cameron). “Many of our shows have been written for our theatre group. This contributes to a really strong sense of community, with shared experiences, knowledge and mutual understanding,” says Julia.
have been written for our theatre group. This contributes to a really strong sense of community, with shared experiences, knowledge, jokes and mutual understanding.”
Along with Bladen Wines, local cafe The Sneaky Beach is sponsoring the gala opening night for the show while the Gallery Havelock sells tickets on their behalf.
“The local charity shop is a generous supplier of props and costumes on loan and then there are our local audiences who pile into the Town Hall and The Boathouse Theatre to support our antics. They say it takes a village to raise a child, well that also applies to getting a show on stage in Havelock.”
One of the characters, Kristina Valium, played by Suzanne Grenfell, is a newspaper reporter. When it came to choosing the name, Julia says, “of course, she
thought of The Blenheim Sun’s Chris Valli. Awkward.
In October, information was sent out and expressions of interest were invited. “You can imagine the panic I felt when a request for an audition pack came in from the Chris Valli, she says. “I thought it was a wind-up and I had to come clean to Chris, owning up to the Kris Valium character before I sent him the script. Fortunately, he saw the funny side. Chris auditioned and got a part in the show, but not as Kris Valium. For some reason he just wasn’t convincing as a reporter.”
When it comes to reflecting on the process and the creative input into the past five months, Julia believes Stage Fright is, if anything, a love letter to community theatre.
“It takes the audience on a journey through some of the ups and downs of the rehearsal process, giving an insight into why we do
this, and creating an appreciation of just what goes into getting an amateur show onto the stage. I’ve really tried to push the boundaries between realism, theatrical convention and absurdity in this play. At times the fourth wall comes crashing down, reality disappears out the window, and the audience just has to embrace the resulting chaos,” she says.
“Being on stage gives you a real high but at the same time it can be quite terrifying. I’ve discovered that I’m far more comfortable in the privacy and safety of my study writing scripts.
Stage Fright opens tomorrow, January 23 with six performances at Havelock Town Hall until February 1. There will also be two performances at The Boathouse Theatre on January 28 and 29. Blenheim Sun readers can purchase tickets from www. trybooking.co.nz
John Bertrand Collectables Are Buying in Blenheim and Picton Next Week
Once again, the gold and collectables buyers from Wellington company John Bertrand Collectables are visiting Blenheim and Picton next week. Mr Tony Grant from the company says, “If you are downsizing or wanting to dispose of things because they no longer serve any purpose to you or your family bring them in”. “Next week will be a great opportunity to have any items you want to sell assessed by our buyers” said Mr Grant. Particularly wanted are Gold and Silver (in any of its forms) and Collectables such as Coins, Banknotes, War Medals, Old Wind-up Watches and other interesting Small Collectables.
“We are keen buyers, especially of the items in the list below” said Mr Grant. “Nothing is too small for our consideration. We are just as happy buying 1 item as we are buying 1,000 items” he said. The buyers will be in Blenheim and Picton next week (see details below). As Tony Grant points out “If you are in doubt about any items you may wish to sell, bring them along for an instant appraisal.”
Gold & Silver At Near Record Prices
During these uncertain times we have seen a sharp increase in the price of precious metals. The gold price in New Zealand is at near record levels so gather up all your unwanted items and take them along to the buyers. Tony Grant says “We can buy old gold items in all forms, including Jewellery (Rings, Chains, Brooches etc), Coins (Sovereigns and the like), Alluvial (River Gold), virtually anything, even Gold Teeth! We also need all Sterling Silver including Cups, Tea Services, Cutlery and Old Coins” he said.
Interesting Small Collectables Wanted
The buyers from John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd, visiting Blenheim and Picton next week, are happy to look at any interesting items, for example vintage pocket and wristwatches such as Rolex, Men’s Omega, Breitling and gold watches etc. Also wanted, pre 1950’s picture postcards, Maori and Pacific artefacts, old fountain pens and other small antique or historical items.
“If you have something unusual which you would like to sell, please bring it into one of our venues, we would like the chance to at least have a look at it” said Tony Grant, buyer for the Company. “We will consider anything which may be of interest to a collector” he said.
Some Big Dollars in Early Banknotes
Early New Zealand Banknotes dated before 1932 are currently fetching big money! This is according to Mr Tony Grant, author of the John Bertrand New Zealand Coin & Banknote Catalogue . Mr Grant is in Blenheim and Picton next week on a buying trip for John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd and would be very keen to see any of these issues. “We will pay at least $300 for any undamaged Ten Shilling or One Pound
banknote from a New Zealand trading bank dated 1932 or before.
Denominations of five pounds and higher would be worth from $700. “Any banknote dated prior to 1900 would be worth at least $1000” said Mr Grant.
Also purchased are any Reserve Bank of New Zealand pre-decimal issues, especially 50 Pound notes. All overseas banknotes are also wanted, especially early Pacific Island issues.
Collectors Need War Medals
Currently, throughout NZ and the world there is a big demand by collectors for war medals. These cover all wars right through from the New Zealand Land Wars and the Boer War, to the First and Second World Wars and the later Korea and Vietnam conflicts. New Zealand Servicemen and Women first served overseas in the Boer War in South Africa around 1900 and the war medals awarded for this service are needed by the buyers, as are any other Medals from early New Zealand and the New Zealand Wars. General service medals from both the First and Second World Wars will also be purchased, but as can be imagined these were awarded in fairly large numbers. “If a group of medals has any special award for bravery such as the Military Medal, Military or Flying Cross or other medals for Distinguished Conduct or Meritorious Service, these can add great value to a group” stated Mr Tony Grant, buyer for John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd. “Many families have old medals, some dating back to early Imperial days, that they are not sure what to do with. These are better off in the hands of collectors who will look after them. We will be happy to look at any war medals whatsoever, just bring them in to venues” he said.
Old Coins Can Toss Up a Rarity
Do you have a bunch of old coins sitting around in your drawers and cupboards? You just never know what rarities may be lurking there. The advice from Tony Grant from
(Tony)
Shags succeeding in a cold climate
The endangered king shag, confined to the Marlborough Sounds, has enjoyed a greater breeding season thanks to better weather conditions last winter.
DOC Ranger Dan Palmer says it is a big relief after their breeding seasons from 2021 to 2023 were atrocious.
GO ON - EXPLORE NELSON!
When the king shag working group (Marlborough District Council, DOC, Ministry for Primary Industries, iwi, Marine Farming Association, and researchers) started studying them in 2015, the population was estimated to be 839.
“Unfortunately, from 2021-2023 king shag suffered badly from winter storm events in La Niña weather conditions,” Dan says. “Low-lying nests were swept away by storm surges, heavy rainfall flooding out nest sites, and high sediment loads in the Marlborough Sounds made it harder for birds to see food like flounder on the sea floor.”
A population census in 2024 estimated a total population of 646. This was a drop of 23% since 2021, likely due to three poor breeding seasons with very few chicks produced.
“However, king shags did incredibly
well in the El Niño conditions of 2024. The cooler, drier winter, without big storm events improved their nest survival.
“So, although the last population census was the lowest in 10 years the population now looks likely to climb, with a total of 198 chicks fledging in the 2024 season.”
Dan says until 2015 king shags hadn’t been closely studied and we’re only just coming to grips with their population cycles.
“We know their preferred habitat is somewhat challenging for survival – they like cold, southerly-facing rock stacks. They also dive up to 70m for food, which might sound like a long way but is actually fairly shallow compared to other shag species.”
Dan says people can help king shags by sharing space. “Boats should keep a good distance from their breeding and roosting colonies as king shags are flighty and easily disturbed.”
For future resilience, DOC is investigating mitigation measures including the potential to use dummy nests to attract the shags to sites that are less vulnerable to extreme weather conditions due to climate change impacts.
The Last Muster
by Carly Thomas, published by Harper Collins
By Tony Orman
Author Carly Thomas has written an excellent book on her experiences mustering sheep and cattle stations, invariably high country ones.
Marlborough features with chapters on the Muller, Awapiri and Middlehurst stations in the Awatere Valley while St James Station will be known to many Marlborough farming and outdoor-minded folks.
Other stations the author mustered include Otago’s Greenstone Station, Hawkes Bay’s Smedley Station and Chatham Island’s Bluff Station.
The author’s love of horses shines through and her writing style adeptly brings the backcountry people’s personalities to life. An engaging writing style makes for easy flowing reading.
Horses have declined in use on farms due to 4WD vehicles, tractors and quad bikes, and more recently helicopters and even drones. However some thankfully remain. A lover of horses and the back country Carly Thomas a journalist went “in search of horses and yarns, history and hard yakka” for a book idea.
“Ride with the best of them, that was the grand plan, all while hearing the reason these farming folk hold the reins
so tightly on their way of life.”
The result is a book that’s an absorbing read and complemented by a good dollop of both colour and black and white photos.
Marlborough’s Willie McDonald of Middlehurst, horse and dogs feature in the cover photo.
“The Last Muster” gets a well-earned “highly recommended.”
DOC Ranger Dan Palmer says the endangered king shag, confined to the Marlborough Sounds, did incredibly well in the El Niño conditions of 2024 with the cooler, drier winter, improved their nest survival.
BOOk review
Heat Geek has been keeping Marlborough Cool this summer
That’s all thanks to Heat Geek’s Samsung Heat Pumps Summer Heat Promotion which saw over 20 units sold in the first month!
“I am very pleased to offer such a great brand, Samsung, to Marlborough,” says Mark Taylor, Heat Geek.
“It sure has been a busy time installing units from small 3.2kW Samsung WindFree Highwalls into bedrooms to keep you cool overnight right up to big 16kW ducted systems.
“There are also two new 9kW Samsung Heat pumps installed at Arcadia Amusement, which is now the Coolest place to hang out during these hot school holidays.”
Heat pump technology has come a long way since they first appeared in New Zealand and Samsung is certainly a brand with a fantastic reputation for great consumer products like TV’s, Washing Machines, and their Heat Pump (aka Air Conditioners) line up is at the leading edge of development and technology.
Features like WindFree - SmartThings - Digital Inverters are what set Samsung Heat Pumps apart from their competition and Heat Geek is the only authorised reseller
and installer for the Marlborough area.
WindFree
WindFree™ is a technology used in Samsung air conditioners that disperses air through thousands of micro holes to create a gentle, even flow of cool air. This technology eliminates cold drafts and reduces air friction and noise. When operating in WindFree™ mode, the outdoor unit consumes over 77% less energy compared to the Fast Cooling mode.*
Built-in Wi-fi with SmartThings Intelligently connect and control to help ensure your home is comfortable at any time using the Samsung SmartThings App. You can control and monitor the air conditioner remotely with just a touch.*
Digital Inverter Boost - Reduces energy by up to 73% and reduces noise by up to 40% Save money every day with highly energy-efficient Digital Inverter Boost technology. With less moving parts, innovative design, neodymium magnets and a Twin TubeMuffler, the digital inverter works efficiently, quietly and lasts longer. Reducing energy usage by up to 73%*.
Mark at Heat Geek has been servicing and installing for years. The great thing about servicing heat pumps, he says, is you get to know all the different brands, the best units that are designed well and easy to maintain. So it was easy for Heat Geek to partner with Samsung as they are just that.
Heat Geek, formerly Airify Heat Pump Cleaning, still offers his professional Heat Pump Servicing. Having your Heat Pump serviced by a trained Service Technician is important to ensure your system is Energy Efficient and Bacterial Free.
For bookings just call 0800 432800 or book online www.
heatgeek.co.nz. Priced at $129 for your first service and yearly/ bi-yearly is just $99.
Samsung Heat Pumps Cash Back Offer Up to $750 Cashback offer for any Samsung Heat Pump purchased from 20th January 2025 to 13th April - includes Highwall and Ducted systems. T&C’s apply.
HEAT GEEK MARLBOROUGH: Owner Mark Taylor has partnered with Samsung to offer world leading heat pumps, backed up by his many years of experience in heat pump installation and servicing.
EDUCATION
CALLING ALL PARENTS!
Tutoring in Science & Maths
Are your college students struggling with Biology, Chemistry, Maths at the moment?
NCEA results show we, in Marlborough, are near the bottom of the country for performance!
I taught science and maths at two
have tutored several students to
and
in
Tutoring can make a significant difference to learning outcomes.
Ignite your creative passion
Are you looking for a way to ignite your creative passion, build your confidence,
Marlborough Children’s and Youth Theatre (MYC Theatre) offers the perfect environment to help you do just that.
With a strong focus on developing both performing skills and personal growth, MYC Theatre provides students of all ages with the tools to confidently step onto the stage and into the world of theatre.
MYC Theatre caters to students as young as four years old, nurturing their talents and encouraging creativity in a fun and supportive environment.
The drama program is designed to inspire confidence, self-esteem, and the skills needed for public speaking and performing.
Students gain valuable experience through a variety of classes, including speech, creative movement, mime, improvisation, and scene work. These classes help students explore their
imaginations while developing key abilities that will serve them throughout their lives.
The curriculum also includes opportunities to take part in performance competitions and grade exams, providing students with a chance to demonstrate their growth and gain recognition for their hard work.
With annual productions, MYC Theatre ensures that students have ample opportunity to showcase their talent on stage, fostering not only a love for theatre but also a sense of achievement and teamwork.
MYC Theatre goes beyond traditional acting classes by offering specialised courses in acting for screen, helping students build skills for the entertainment industry in both
live theatre and film.
In addition, the school provides private tuition for speech and drama, as well as singing lessons, ensuring that each student’s unique needs and interests are supported. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced performer, MYC Theatre offers courses for all ages, from young children to adults.
It’s a place where imagination can thrive, friendships can grow, and confidence can be built. Enrol today and unlock your creative potential with MYC Theatre - where talent is nurtured, and everyone’s voice is heard. Visit the MYC Theatre website to learn more and enrol today!
REAP Marlborough
REAP Marlborough was established in 1979 and from then has striven to become the Marlborough community’s ‘go-to hub’ for courses and support for the education of our rural (and often very isolated) residents and also those who reside in and nearer to Blenheim, Renwick, and Picton, our larger communities.
The objective has been to identify gaps in the provision of education for rural communities for all ages and develop strategies to fill the gaps either through REAP-facilitated programmes or in collaboration with other providers.
REAP Marlborough supports Early Childhood Education, schools, tertiary
and Adult Community Education, as well as transitions between these levels. The focus is on gaps in opportunities for education resulting from geographical isolation and isolation relating to age, disability, language, or other factors.
REAP Marlborough promotes community development, integrating education and the provision of information with activities in other sectors including health, social services, community organisations and local government. REAP Marlborough can act as the independent initiator and/or facilitator of community change but more commonly works collaboratively with other agencies.
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
EDUCATION
Start fresh this summer
Take the leap into a brighter future this summer and unlock your potential at NMIT.
Whether you’re exploring your options after school, looking to advance in your career or simply keen to learn something new, we are here to help you make it happen.
Every journey begins with one step, and we’ll be with you every step of the way.
NMIT is more than a place to study - it’s a place to grow. Think flexible study options, real-world learning and a holistic support environment, all designed to empower you to believe in your potential and to equip you with everything you need to reach your goals. From business to winemaking, NMIT
have over 100 programmes available, from certificate to master’s level.
Unsure where to begin? Book a study navigation chat with our friendly and helpful team! They’re here to help you plan your future and set you up to succeed.
With 2025 applications and scholarships now open, there’s no better time to take that first step towards realising your own dreams.
Let this be the year you say yes to embracing challenges, taking the leap and turning aspirations into reality.
Begin your study journey at NMIT this February - Believe it, become it.
Shep’s Park for dogs and everyone
By Chris Valli
It seems Marlborough’s dogs do have the freedom to run about and frolic at Shep’s Park in Yelverton, Blenheim.
Two Text Talks in last week’s edition (January 15) of the Blenheim Sun asked ‘Who says Shep Park was a dogs park?’ while the another text, ‘Entitlement’ was irritated by the ‘entitlement of recent correspondents’, saying Shep’s Park was a public reserve, adding dog walkers didn’t have a monopoly. However, a Marlborough District Council spokesperson says Shep’s Park has been able to be used for ‘off leash dog exercise’ since August 1, 2021 after public consultation on Council’s Dog Control Bylaw.
The bylaw sets controls for dogs including leashing, exercising, licensing and other controls when on public places. Dogs are permitted off-leash at Shep’s Park, provided they are ‘under control at all times’ and the person responsible for the dog has a bag to immediately remove fouling and a leash with them.
Other off leash dog areas include Harling Park and the walkway to Elmwood Avenue, and the Sutherland Stream Reserve, between Hospital Road and the Wither Hills
Redwood Street car park.
In recent years the park has seen a work utility vehicle stolen from Percy Street and subsequently left on fire in Shep’s park while posts to social media have reminded dog owners of their collective responsibilities by disposing of dog feces in the bins provided.
Other incidents have involved users parking their cars on the ground and locals having to pick up broken glass and leftover food scraps. Meanwhile, local Daniel Rarity set up a Facebook group called Shep’s Dog Park for like-minded individuals to connect and share their dog loving exploits at the park.
The MDC says all park users should respect others’ use of the park at all times.
Shep’s Park, a 2.5 hectare property was donated by the late Joy Shepard, who died aged 89 in 2005. The land was bought by her lifelong love and husband, Lloyd, whom she met in Waimate in 1948.
Joy’s request was that the property be known as Shep’s Park after her death. The land has been owned by the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust and managed by the Marlborough District Council since mid-2007.
Shep’s Park has been able to be used for ‘off leash dog exercise’ since August 1, 2021 after public consultation on Council’s Dog Control Bylaw. Dogs are permitted off-leash at Shep’s Park, provided they are ‘under control at all times’ and the person responsible for the dog has a bag to immediately remove fouling and a leash with them.
Building strong bones
By George Elder
As people age, their bone health typically declines with women being more impacted than men. This decline is gradual over many years so taking steps to prevent it and build strong bones should be undertaken early in life. A typical response for bone building seems to be ‘add calcium supplements’, however as with everything else about the human body, the answer is not that simple.
You need adequate protein. Every part of the body is built from protein so that if your level is deficient, you may actually be losing the protein matrix
you already have in your bones and muscles. Standard dietary guidelines of 0.8 grams per kilogram of your weight are too low. They are a minimum for living. To grow and preserve muscle and bone as an older adult you need 1.5 - 2 grams per kilogram. So, a 70kg woman needs 105 to 140 grams of protein per day. Your body cannot store protein between meals, so you must eat protein with every meal and you need about 25 grams minimum per meal to stimulate muscle synthesis. Plant foods have only about 40 percent of the protein bioavailability of animal foods.
Bone is continually remodeling based on many factors including diet, exercise and strength demands. To build
bone you need to create osteoblasts from protein, calcium, vitamin A, magnesium, boron, vitamin D and vitamin K2. These together strengthen existing bones by becoming new more dense bone cells.
Calcium is critical, but it doesn’t just magically head for areas that need bone growth. Without the other building elements or, if taken in excess, can end up in soft tissue such as blood vessel walls where it can harden arteries and increase cardio vascular disease (CVD) risk.
Vitamin D must be available and the best source is sunlight on the skin. Get outside, without sunscreen, when your shadow is longer than your
height and soak it up. You will also be building up nitric oxide stores. If supplementing use vitamin D3.
Where to get vitamin A. Beware foods claiming vitamin A but really only having beta-carotene. Beta-carotene (sometimes called ‘provitamin A’ to further confuse you) is not vitamin A. Your body has to convert this to vitamin A and the process can be very inefficient. Best sources of real vitamin A include cow’s milk, cheese, eggs and oily fish.
A critical but poorly understood element in the bone building is vitamin K2 (not Vitamin K1 which assists blood clotting and comes from plants). Vitamin K2 comes from ani-
mal-based food and is necessary to direct the calcium towards bone. See my blog https:// www.takebackyrhealth.com/ post/how-grass-finished-beefreduces-heart-disease-risk
Boron comes from apples, peaches, oranges, broccoli, nuts, eggs, greens, beans and avocado while magnesium comes from meats, fish, dairy, chicken, beef, seeds, peanuts, beans and dark chocolate.
Get free nutrition guidance or my book at www.takebackyrhealth.com. Seek professional medical advice before dietary changes, particularly if on medication. George Elder, Health Coach, Diploma in Nutrition. “The best thing you can do for your health is eat better”.
We have created new glass solutions specifically for Marlborough conditions to provide superior insulation for your home, keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer. For superior double-glazing solutions CONTACT US TODAY. COME TO US FOR
SPRINGLANDS SCHOOL 2025
Happy New Year and welcome back!
School resumes on Monday 3rd February 2025
Know Your Learner Teacher/Parent/Student meetings Friday 31st January.
The School Office will be open for new enrolments, stationery and uniform sales; Wednesday 29th, Thursday 30th & Friday 31st
Official Blessing and Opening of the new New Students Pōwhiri at 8.45am
All new students, meet at the top carpark to be welcomed onto QCC
Tuesday 4th February Full School Attendance
School buses will operate at normal times from Friday 31st January
Spring Creek School
20 25
Opens for all students on Tuesday 28 January 2025
Our office is open from Thursday 23 January 2025, 9.30am-12.30pm for new enrolments and to purchase stationery packs. Enrolments can also be completed online via our website www.springcreek.school.nz All new enrolments for year 1-6 are welcome. We offer:
enquiries to: admin@springcreek.school.nz Phone 570 5514 | springcreek.school.nz facebook.com/SCSchool
We welcome our students back to school on Monday 3rd February for our Whānau Hui.
Our office is open from 9am - 3.30pm on Thursday the 30th of January.
Rapaura School has a dedicated staff and board, providing our students with a wellresourced school, positive culture and high expectations for behaviour and successful learning. We welcome families who want to be part of an inclusive and supportive school. Enrolments are open for our out of zone second ballot period: Terms 3 & 4 2025. The deadline for receipt of applications is 28 April 2025. The ballot date is 5 May 2025.
For further information, please contact: office@rapaura.school.nz
PH: 03 570 5752
2025 COMMENCEMENT
PROGRAMME
Wednesday 22nd January
• MBC Front Office & Finance Office re-open 8:30 am – 4:00 pm
Thursday 23rd January
• MBC Hall - Course confirmation Year 11 9:00 am
10:30 am Year 12 11:00 am
12:30
Wednesday 29 th & Friday 31st January
• New Enrolments 9 am – 11 am (By appointment only)
SCHOOL BUSES WILL OPERATE AT NORMAL TIMES FROM MONDAY 3rd FEBRUARY 2025
Monday 3rd February 2025
Year 9 and other students new to the College will assemble at the Francis Street east gate by the front field for our Pōwhiri [Hall if wet].
• 8:50 am – 10:30 am Pōwhiri
Pōwhiri (Welcome ceremony) for new staff, Year 9 students and other students new to the College. Family/ Caregivers are welcome to attend.
After the Pōwhiri formalities, we will have an opportunity for parents to meet the teachers while Y9 students will be undertaking a programme alongside our Year 13s and Senior College leaders.
• Returning Year 13 students assemble in the quad at 8:15 am
Tuesday 4th February 2025 – Full school attendance, Years 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13.
• All levels will have their Whānau Classes posted on the Parent Portal
• 8:45 am - All students to go directly to their Whānau room.
Thursday 6th February 2025 – Waitangi Day Observed. Friday 7th February 2024 – MBC Swimming Sports Competition
2025 Start of Year Programme
Welcome
thursday 23rd January
students
10.00am – 12.00pm New Enrolments to Guidance Suite
9.00am – 2.00pm Course changes with Deans. Please book via Schoolpoint (details will be sent)
monday 27th and tuesday 28th January
Star Mentors Training - all day
tuesday 28th, Wednesday 29th and thursday 30th January
Staff Only Days
friday 31st January
Year 9 and New Students - in school all day
8.45am - Students gather on the tennis courts, and meet their whānau teacher and class.
9.00am - Mihi Whakatau for all new students, their whānau and new staff. School buses run from this date. School Canteen open. Year 9 students should bring their device, pens and paper. School uniform should be worn.
monday 3rd february - 8.45am – 3.15pm
Students to report to their Whānau classes.
tuesday 4th february
Timetabled classes begin. thursday 6th february
Waitangi Day – School closed.
friday 7th february School as usual.
As from Monday 3
Healthline, Pharmacists, GP or GP Practice Nurse, and Urgent After Hours GP offer professional health advice.
If you arrive at Wairau Hospital’s Emergency Department with a non-urgent health concern you may be referred to your GP.
Celebrate LOVE in Nature together this Summer at Maruia River Retreat
Get your veins checked early before they become a serious problem
Just call 03 578 9109 or email bookings@mmimaging.co.nz for a free no obligation vein assessment
Did you know that your ears and brain are 'equal partners' when it comes to hearing well?
While your ears pick up sound, your brain gives meaning to what you hear. So, when you prioritize your hearing health , you're also supporting your brain health
Maruia River Retreat’s most popular Lover’s Luxury Getaway Special Offer has been extended to February 28, 2025 for stays until March 31, 2025.
Save $300 and book your 2-night all-inclusive luxury time to rest, relax, rejuvenate and reconnect with nature in one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand.
Treat yourself to nightly 3-course dinners, nourishing breakfast and lunch, plus luxurious massage treatments for both of you. Hurry, we only have 7 villas each week and a maximum of 10 guests. Book now at maruia.co.nz and use code SUMMERHOLIDAY or call 02102 33 11 44 for inquiries.
Say NO to GMO!
Sun The txt talk with
Excellent service
Thank you to the ‘Fabric Creations’ store for helpful suggestions and excellent service. You ladies are awesome!
Game’s up, JC. It’s plain to see You’re in cahoots with CCP. You seek to sell us on GE. The first to die will be the bee.
So when we starve you’ll beam with glee while dining out with Chairman Xi!
Cartoon
I just read last Fridays paper.
Page 10 cartoon about Rock Star Luxon, making his jokes about what they did to NZ last year, and HIS tax free selling of his properties, laughing all the way to the bank. The last laugh will be ON him, not by him.
Had enough
I’m sick of these greenies whinging about the 12 million tonnes of plastic dropped annually into our oceans and the 358 trillion microscopic pieces floating on the surface of the world’s oceans. The greenies need to get to work and make stuff that people really need.
Welcome to Blenheim
Am so surprised that a Civils company was allowed to position its stone heaps so close to the main road and to the entry to north side of Blenheim. Not a good look. Keep your windows closed for the dust clouds.
No shelter
Visited Green Waste today. Lovely polite staff. But horrified to learn they have no shelter from rain or sun. Staff member has a chair to sit on if they wish but no covering from the elements. Come on council and whoever else owns this. Surely a couple of sheds for protection would not be unreasonable. Definitely not a waste of our rates contribution.
Fuel prices
Just watching the tv ads for Z New Zealand with their coffee ads and other products they endorse but they fail to say they have the most expensive fuel in the country. Example diesel at $1.96 a litre, 500 meters down the road it $1.65 a litre. Z is for NZ yer right, just a rip off.
Weeds
Pollard Park stream needs clearing of weeds. Its flooding in the area due to build up of weeds just before it goes under the Parker Street bridge. The other side is just as bad. Been like that for a couple of weeks now.
Unmowed Lawns
Anyone else noticed the unmowed lawns of the rental properties. Wouldn’t be nice if the lawn mowing contractors took pride in their work and did their job they are well paid to do.
Sheps Park
Sheps Park is not officially a dog park, and there’s no signage claiming it is.
The MDC website lists 11 off-leash dog-friendly spots including the park, which was donated as a public reserve - not a dog park.
The donors intended it for everybody in Blenheim to use which it is, when people’s cricket teams, wives and screaming children’s are there. Not just 2 people and their dogs. This park is not exclusively a dog park.
If you are desperate to walk your dog in the four hours a week the park is used by cricketers only in summer, I suggest heading over to the actual designated dog park in Renwick or one of the other 10 spots instead.
Justice
Glad to read that justice was serviced in a recent article regarding a Blenheim business. Also hoping that the two lawyers that were named get their just desserts.
Marlborough Roads
Our roads are not dangerous, it’s drivers that make them so. If people drove to the conditions and rules of the road we would all be safe. As for median barriers, will not work on our 2 lane so called highway. Lets face the fact that roads will never be idiot proof .
Dogs in cars
In this weather leave the window down in your cars enough so dogs can breathe and stick their noses out at least. Leave water if you are going to leave them in a car, even if it’s overcast, it’s still hot. Think about it, you shouldn’t have dogs if you can’t do the basics, cruel, karma, report idiots. Think people, the amount of people that do this is appalling. Report them.
Wonderful crew
Shout out to the wonderful crew at Carters. Every time I visit people are helpful and friendly and I’m always greeted with a smile. Special thanks to Aussie John.
Bypass
Even more reason Blenheim needs a bypass. Marlborough Express Friday Jan 17th. Roundabouts closed for 2 days.
You’re on my beer mat
A work associate recently invited me to a bar for a drink after work, on the wall in this bar was a glass wall case which had beer glasses inside with customers names stamped on them. I was informed that for a fee I could purchase my own named glass, this entitles me to a reduced cost on my beers, what about a beer mat with my name on, more reductions ?
Ordinary
Weather since Christmas has been fairly ordinary. Our summer really doesn’t start until the end of January. The only reason we start our summer holidays at Christmas is because of Jesus‘s birth day. The reality is no one knows when his actual birthday really was. 25 December is purely an arbitrary date. Why don’t we shift his birthday to 25 January when our summer really starts and when it’s the best time for our holidays to start. How’s that.
Talk of the week
Thank you
Last month I was in town, it was very windy and my walker went one way and I hit the pavement. It was near Postie and I would like to thank the people that helped me up and made sure I was OK. Very appreciated. Many thanks, Jan
Four star garden
Great to see that the Seymour Square gardens have been given a four star status as a garden of significance. All the staff who look after the gardens are to be congratulated, they do a magnificent job.
Trail angel
To the kind person who found my credit card on the Wither Hills and returned it to the bank, thank you very much. Your actions are very much appreciated.
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.
Sheps Park
Sheps Park, untidy, messy,.Downers should use Weed Eater and do whole park, walkway covered in huge weeds. Mow lawns with catcher then Barley Grass won’t spread. Enough fields in Blenheim to play cricket but not walk dogs, get rid of pitch.
hosted the annual Festival of Cricket tournament at Horton and Oliver Parks recently.
Havelock
Community Theatre – Stage Fright
Havelock Community theatre presents Stage Fright, a new comedy by local writer Julia Daniel. In this playwithin-a-play a fictional Havelock Community theatre muddles their way through rehearsals to bring a classic whodunit to the local stage.
Dave (Rick Edmonds) and Julia Darnell (Sarah Nathan) at a recent rehearsal. The show opens tomorrow night in Havelock.
From Marlborough to Melbourne
Marlborough tennis enthusiasts took in the action of the Australian Open in Melbourne last week
Picton Maritime Festival
A huge crowd gathered for the 20th Annual Picton Maritime Festival on Friday 17 and Saturday 18 January. Attractions included a live concert, buskers and street performers, pop-up food and beverage vendors, and some on-the-water action.
side
RIGHT: Ned Bell shakes coach
Kyle Heagney’s hand after the team beat Canterbury Country. Ned had figures of 3-13 in the 40 over match.
Back left: Jarrod Englefield, coach, Julian Englefield, Amari Doonan, Josh Abrahams, Dylan Wells, Reon Holdaway, and Kyle Heagney, coach. Front: Ryan Batty, Carter Eden, Freddie Heagney, Ned Bell and Joseph Gilhooly.
From left: Bill Taylor and Kerie Smith from the Marlborough Tennis Club, and Marsha Woodbury and Helen Redshaw are from the Rapaura Tennis Club.
Peter Johnson wins the Seagull race in his self-built 4.9m boat, Red Devil.
Some determined competitors in the build-a-raft race. This event was won by The Cuzzy Smugglers, who swam to the finish line after their raft sunk.
The Mussel Float race was another crowd favourite. This event was won by The Mega Mussels team.
Let’s chat with…
Neil HeNry
Are you a dog or cat person?
We have a lovely ginger cat called Tiger.
Favourite global cuisine?
Undoubtedly bangers and mash with HP Sauce.
What would you buy if money was no object?
A home in Europe so I could have summer all year round.
Celebrity-wise who would be at your dream dinner party?
Arsenal legends Tony Adams and Dennis Bergkamp, author and comedian Caimh McDonnell, and the ‘Yes Minister’ cast.
Veggies or fruit?
I eat an awful lot of fruit.
The shop you cant walk past is...? Williams & Co, see above answer.
If you didn’t live in Marlborough where would you choose?
Italy, for the weather, history, cuisine and football.
Favourite programme or series currently watching?
Slow Horses on Apple TV+.
What do you do for your own mental health? I run quite slowly and play football quite badly for Rangers City.
Whats your favourite colour? Green.
If you had to choose another job what would it be?
Jony Ive’s old job at Apple.
What truly matters to you?
My family and friends….and Arsenal FC.
The best advice I ever received was? Move with my family to New Zealand.
My friends would say I am? That short Pom.
gardening this week
Bugs: By Wally Richards
Bugs are often the things that gardeners have on their minds and on their plants this time of the year. The real answer of course is to prevent their populations growing early in the spring so that when the summer comes they are easier to keep under control.
Once they get out of hand they need a lot of effort and spraying to get back to small numbers.
You may have a pest affecting a plant and using suitable sprays you knock them back only to find a few days later they are back and even more of them.
It is not that your sprays didn’t work it means that from plants nearby or from over the fence they have re-infested your plant.
Thus when you have an infestation on one plant you need to check all other plants and weeds in about 5-10 metres away. Also pays to look over the fence as well.
If the source of the problem is in the neighbors garden then you either have a chat with the neighbor and maybe offer to spray their plants as well.
Failing that, then expect the rest of summer to have a problem till winter comes.
Stink bugs and leaf hoppers are two that I am often asked about. My suggestion here is to make up Wallys Super Pyrethrum at 1ml to 2L of water (pipet is supplied so you can measure 1ml) and go out at dusk and disturb the pests on the plants they are on, then spray them on the wing, in mid flight like you would do with flies and fly spray. Take a 1L trigger spray bottle for this purpose and put 0.5ml into the 1L of water.
You can double the strength and put a whole mil into the 1L. Now, most important when you have not used all the mixed up spray, place into a dark cupboard where it will keep till next use. Exposed to light it is useless within a couple of hours, especially in sun light.
Go out each night at dusk and spray them on wing till you reach the time when there’s none about, then again check every few days for any re-infection.
The same can be applied to white fly on tomatoes and other plants.
Keep killing the adults and sooner or later you have control. But you need to be regular like every nightif left for a week or so you are back to where you started.
On citrus trees you don’t need to spray at all just sprinkle Wallys Neem Tree Granules under the tree and lightly water to get them started. Normally within 6 weeks or so the citrus tree will be free of pests, including borer.
Citrus Borer is on the wing at this time so treat all your citrus trees to a sprinkling of Wallys Neem Tree Granules. You can apply them to the root zone of other plants as well and they can help as part of your control methods.
Spraying the adult flying insects is one way to gain control and you can speed this up by taking Wallys Super Neem Tree Oil and mixing that at 5ml per 1L of warm water and once again spraying at dusk and this time spraying under and over the foliage concentrating on the under the leaves as that is where the nymphs are. They get a dose of Neem when they are feeding, stop eating and starve to death. The Neem Oil treatment/spray needs to be only done once a week till you have control.
It’s safe to use and there is no withholding period other t han washing produce before consuming.
If you have cherry or pear trees you may have the pest called the Cherry Slug. It is black, looks like a garden slug, and it is eating the foliage of the those trees.
The simple solution is to spray the foliage with Wallys Liquid Copper as they can not handle copper and fall off the tree, dead.
White butterfly - traditionally we used derris dust power sprinkled over the leaves of brassicas but since the derris dust has been associated with possible Parkinson disease it’s not so well favored these days.
Sticky Yellow pads are also a non invasive way to catch flying insect pests best in a glasshouse but also good outdoors.
Once again this season I have hung little gauze bags of Wallys Cat Repellent in my glasshouse where I am growing tomatoes.
Not a sign of any white fly as the smell of the naphthalene disguises the smell of the tomato plants so white fly adults do not know there are tomatoes growing there. I have yellow sticky pads in the glasshouse as well and none have caught a white fly but lots of other flying insects.
This will only work if you start off in the beginning when you first put tomatoes in your glasshouse too late to close the gate when the horses have bolted.
Problems ring me at 0800 466464
Economic Development Manager at MDC
Thursday 23 January
Marlborough Museum:
11am-3pm. Adults $10, children free. The Museum celebrates an inspiring collection of items which tell the story of Marlborough and its people. Current Exhibition -The Power of Flowers-how flowers inspired fashion.
Picton Poets:
4th Thursday of the month, 10.30-11.30am, Picton Library, all welcome. Phone Lyn 021 129 4342. Keep U Moving: Gentle indoor walking exercise for seniors. 11.30am12.30pm $3.00. St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St. Ph 0273852333 or donna@stchristophers.co.nz
Older Persons Seminar: Every 4th Thursday of each month. $6.00. Contact Donna 027 385 2333 or donna@stchristophers.co.nz: (Next seminar 27th February, none in January).
Table Tennis Summer Season:
Blenheim Indoor Sports Centre run a table tennis session every Thursday, 6.30pm - 8.30pm, $6 per person to be paid at front desk. Social Badminton Club:
9am-noon: Thursday mornings. Simcox Stadium, Battys Road. $6. All adults welcome. For more details phone Cathy 021 503 348.
Ulysses Retreads Group: 11am: Meet Brayshaw Park Thursdays. Ride to various destinations for lunch. Bring your laughing gear, a thermal to wear and a story to share. Library Book Club:
6.30pm-8pm: Marlborough District Library. We meet on the last Thursday of the month. Simply bring a book to recommend to other members, and enjoy listening to other member’s (including librarians) book picks. Picton Library Book Club:
6.30pm-8pm: Picton Library and Service Centre. Join us in meeting new people and chatting about books. We meet on the first Thursday of each month. To register please email pictonlibrary@marlborough.govt.nz. Knit and Natter:
At the Marlborough Library from 10am. Come along and join the friendly group of social knitters upstairs in the library each Thursday morning. Bring along your knitting project and/or get inspiration from other knitters. No need to register, just turn up on the day.
Friday 24 January
Momorangi Treasure Hunt:
2-3.30pm. Come and discover nature’s treasures at Momorangi Campground. You will be given a list of treasures to find, then learn how to identify them. A FREE event that is fun for kids and kids at heart. Meet DOC staff at the start of the nature trail at the top of Momorangi Campground and don’t forget sun protection and solid shoes. Blenheim Family History Group in PICTON:
1.30-3.30pm. Need help with your family history research, come to the Picton Library and meet members of the Blenheim Family History Group. Contact Helen 0210390106. Meeting today and every fortnight. (Next session Friday 31st January).
Vintage Farm Machinery: Open daily, 10am to 3pm, Brayshaw Vintage Farm. Phone John 577 7442. Family Movie Time:
Marlborough library 10.30am-12pm All children are welcome to attend this free event. Children must be accompanied by an adult during these sessions. Visit our website to see other school holiday activities.
Saturday 25 January
Havelock Lions Club’s monthly market: Will be held on Saturday 25th January , outside the Havelock Town Hall 9am -1pm. There will be a good variety of stalls, including Okiwi Bay Market Garden. preserves, clothing, woollen items, crafts, soaps, books, art works, vegetables and fruit plus much more. Plenty of bargains to browse through. Enjoy a sausage sizzle and invest in a raffle ticket for a leg of Hogget.There are still sites available. $5. Ring Ian 574 2558 Blenheim Repair Café: 9am-11.50am at Crossroads, 2 Redwood St. We work on vacuum cleaners, to broken trinkets, to cellphones. No
what’s on in marlborough
job too big or small. Please come in and enjoy a cuppa, and share the “repair cafe” experience.
Marlborough Quilters meeting:
Every 2nd Saturday of the month at Marlborough Vintage and Farm Machinery, Brayshaw Park. 10am - 4pm. Join us to learn quilting or bring your own projects. Sewing Machines available. Newcomers welcome. Liz 0212067382 Blenheim Chess Club: Meets at Table Top Café, Scott Street, every Saturday 10am – 1pm. All welcome.
Ulysses Club:
Every Saturday, Coffee at The Runway Café, 10am. Depart The Runway at 10.30am. The Blenheim Rotary Club Boot Sale Market: Every Saturday Morning from 8am till 12 Midday, held in the Blenheim Railway Station Car Park.
Marlborough Artesian Craft Market: Cnr Market Street & High Street, 9:00am - 2:00pm. Stallholders include local artisans both casual and regular attendees as well as visitors from around the country. Entertainment area for kids.
Sunday 26 January
Dragon Boat Regatta: 9am-3pm, Shelly Beach in Picton. Come and watch teams from around the South Island battle it out on the water. Simply the Breast dragon boat team in conjunction with Aoraki Dragon Boat Association is excited to be hosting the inaugural dragon boat regatta in Marlborough. Racing will take place throughout the day. Food and drink available to purchase
Marlborough Vintage Car Club:
Wed & Sun 1:30-3:30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, Blenheim. Other times by arrangement. Ph Bill 0275784322. Donation appreciated. New Members welcome.
Marlborough Museum: 11am-3pm. Adults $10, children free. The Museum celebrates an inspiring collection of items which tell the story of Marlborough and its people. Current Exhibition -The Power of Flowers-how flowers inspired fashion.
Marlborough Farmers’ Market:
9am-noon. Marlborough A&P Showgrounds. Fresh produce from your local farmers. Tasty line up of fresh and seasonal, gourmet and artisan produce and products that this region has to offer.
Picton Rail and Sail:
On the Foreshore - mini train rides and mini yacht hire to sail on our pond every Sunday 11am-3pm, operating every day during school holidays. Only 20 cents per ride/ yacht hire!
Blenheim Bonsai Group:
Islington Gardens, Rowberry Road on the 2nd Sunday of the month 1pm-3.30pm.
Marlborough Tennis Club: 3pm to 5pm, Parker Street. Every Sunday - Social Tennis. Non Members $2. All welcome. Contact number is 027 578 6436.
Ulysses Social Ride:
Sunday rides are now by WhatsApp under Marlborough Ulysses lets ride. All rides are weather dependent.
Riverside Railway, Brayshaw Park Station: Train is being hauled by a Vintage Diesel Engine on the Beaver Line at 1.45pm along the Taylor River and the Omaka Line at 1.15 & 3.15pm. Check Details at www. riversiderailway.nz & Facebook for other information.
Lego Club:
Picton Library@ 1-4pm. Marlborough Library @10am-4pm, Come along each Sunday afternoon to build a Lego kit in the Library. Each week there is an assortment of kits to choose from to build in a designated area. Everyone is welcome to have a go. This free activity is great fun for the whole family!
Monday 27 January
Target Rifle Shooting:
Summer shooting at Athletic Park range, visitors welcome, all gear provided. Riverside Club 1st and 3rd Mondays of month, 7:30pm, cost $10, contact 021667746. Blenheim Club 2nd and 4th Mondays of month, 7:30pm, cost $10, contact 02102464417.
Table Tennis Summer Season:
Tua Marina Table Tennis, every Monday at the Tua Marina Hall, Tua Marina 6.00pm - 8.00pm $5 per person. Contact Janice 027 422 9095
Marlborough Stamp Collectors Club: 34 Arthur Baker Pace. Phone 021 157 3496 for more information.
Rotary Clubs in Blenheim: Monday & Tuesday evenings at 5.30pm. Rotary is a world-wide service club for men and women – doing great things in your community. For further details phone Kevin on 0211 738 784.
Blenheim Scottish Country Dance Club:
Every Monday at 7.00pm at St Andrews Church Hall, Corner Alfred and Henry Street, Blenheim. Come and try it! You don’t need a partner. For information ring Heather 02102587325.
Blenheim Badminton Club:
Every Monday: Juniors 5.30-7pm, seniors 7-9pm, St Mary’s Hall, corner Francis and Hudson Streets. Anna or Mike, email blenheimshuttlers@gmail.com.
Whitehead Park Bowling Club, Redwoodtown:
Every Monday afternoon from 12.30pm to 3pm. All welcome. Contact Mike 572 4013 or John 577 5295.
Beginners Line Dancing:
Senior Citizen Hall, 172 High Street, 2:00PM - 3:00PM
Come along and enjoy the music, making new friend, having fun and learning to dance. You don’t need a partner. All welcome men, women and children over 12. The first lesson is free for new beginner’s then $7 per class after that. For more information Phone Judith 03-5787554 or 0212341095
Tuesday 28 January
Marlborough Museum: 11am-3pm. Adults $10, children free. The Museum celebrates an inspiring collection of items which tell the story of Marlborough and its people. Current Exhibition -The Power of Flowers-how flowers inspired fashion. Steady As You Go (SAYGO): Gentle Exercise/Balance Class for Seniors. 11.30am12.30pm, $3.00. St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St. Ph 0273852333 donna@stchristophers.co.nz.
Toastmasters Club:
In Blenheim meets 6.30pm every second Tuesday. Friendly group encourage shy people how to give a speech, how to tell stories, how to make business presentations etc. Ideal for young people entering the workforce. Older adults are welcome to share their experiences. No charge for guests. Contact: Vivienne 021 0544003.
Persistent Pain Group: Meet every Tuesday at Biddy Kates, 2 Market Street, 5pm-6pm. For people with persistent and chronic pain and their supporters. All welcome.
Picton Line Dance Group: Who meet on a Tuesday 10am till 11.30am at the Anglican Church Hall in Picton, restarting on Tuesday 28th January.
MARLBOROUGH BOY'S COLLEGE TUESDAY 27TH MAY - BOOK NOW
Marlborough Tennis Club:
Parker Street. Every Tuesday 8.30am to 12 Noon, Social Tennis. Morning Tea at 10am. Non Members $5. All Welcome. Contact number is 0275786436. Lions Club of Havelock : Providing community service in the Pelorus area. Meeting every 3rd Tuesday at Havelock Hotel. No meeting in January. Inquiries to Ian Cameron phone 574 2558 School Holiday Fun for Tweens: Marlborough Library, 2-3pm. Come along on for fun activities or crafts. See our website for details. These events are free for all tweens (aged 10 plus), no registration required, just come along on the day. Knitters and Spinners: Picton Library and Service Centre from 10.30. Bring your morning tea along and current project to work on. Share your ideas, skills or simply enjoy time with fellow creators. There’s no need to book a spot, simply turn up on the day.
Wednesday 29 January
Newcomer Summer Meet-Up: Pollard Park 10.30am-12pm, Come and join a welcoming group of newcomers and longer term residents for an outside morning tea at Pollard Park. All ages welcome. Organised by the Marlborough Multicultural Centre and Welcoming Communities. Meet on the grass area beside the playground. Weather permitting - we won’t meet if it is raining. Hope to see you there. Stretch & Breathe: Gentle strength/balance class for seniors. 10-11am, $3.00. St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St, Ph 0273852333 donna@stchristophers.co.nz. Lions’ Club of Blenheim: Like to know more about the Lion’s Club? Meet on the1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month. For more details Contact Delphine Lee 029 942 5004. Picton Mahjong: Marina Cove Club Room, 53 Waikawa Road, Picton at 1pm. Phone Adrianne 02102591639 or Kaye 0211312331 for more information. Whitehead Park Bowling Club, Redwoodtown: 9.30am to 12noon. Mixed roll – ups, all welcome, contact Bob 577 9436. Summer timetable starts October. Blenheim Rock N Roll Club Nights: 7.30-9.30pm: Top of the South Rock n Roll Club, club nights at the Blenheim Bowling Club, bring comfy shoes and water. Great music, have fun and exercise at the same time. Phone Erin 0272341709. Picton Line Dancing: 10 - 11.30am. Anglican Church Hall $7 per class. Beginners welcome. Phone Carol 0212125252 or Raewyn 021715484.
MoMorangi Treasure HunT: 2-3.30pm. Come and discover nature’s treasures at Momorangi Campground. You will be given a list of treasures to find, then learn how to identify them. a Free event that is fun for kids and kids at heart. Meet DoC staff at the start of the nature trail at the top of Momorangi Campground and don’t forget sun protection and solid shoes.
Wanted to Buy
Wanted to Buy
Reporter
Public Notices
Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the Marlborough District of the New Zealand Automobile Association Inc will be held in the Boardroom of the AA Centre, 23 Maxwell Road, Blenheim on Wednesday 19th February 2025, at 5.15pm. BUSINESS
1. To approve the Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 21st February 2024.
2. To receive and discuss the Annual Report of the District for the 2023/24 Financial Year.
3. To elect District Councillors to fill vacancies on the District Council. Nominations for candidates for the vacancies on the District Council caused by rotation in accordance with Rule 11 of the Association are called for. Nominations must be in writing signed by two members of the Association and by the nominee, who also must be a member of the Association, are to be left with the District Manager no later than 5.00pm, 29th January 2025.
Appropriate forms are available from the District Manager at Blenheim AA Centre, 23 Maxwell Road, Blenheim.
4. To transact any other business of which due notice has been given in accordance with the Rules of the Association.
5. General Business.
Admission to the meeting is by presentation of your current financial Automobile Association membership card.
For further information please contact: Ingrid Ovenstone
Marlborough District Manager
Phone (03) 578 3399
Email: iovenstone@aa.co.nz
Public Notices
Are you passionate about your local community?
About the role:
Are you a reporter with a passion for news and a desire to tell compelling stories? The Blenheim Sun is seeking an ambitious and adaptable reporter to join our team.
This full-time position will be based in our Blenheim office, where you will write articles and capture photos for our weekly community paper The Blenheim Sun, keeping the Marlborough community connected through lively, local and engaging news and human interest stories every week.
You should have reporting experience or a journalism qualification, along with a strong interest in news and storytelling. You should be enthusiastic about breaking news, covering community events, and able to work efficiently and calmly under pressure to deliver timely stories.
A valid driver’s license is required for this role.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
• Journalism skills
• The ability to build connections within the community and engage with a diverse range of individuals
• A genuine passion for sharing the stories of the community
• A commitment to fostering a positive, safe, and inclusive workplace
• Be driven to deliver high-quality work
We offer:
• A permanent position with The Blenheim Sun, Marlborough’s favourite newspaper
• A great opportunity to grow your journalism skills and serve your community
• Supportive on-the-job mentoring
• Flexible hours within a 40 hour week - some weekend work from time to time
• Access to Southern Cross medical insurance
About The Blenheim Sun:
We have been publishing in Marlborough for 22 years and have been the region’s favourite community newspaper for most of that time with a broad and loyal readership.
Recently purchased by family owned Allied Press we are now part of a large group of community newspapers covering the South Island.
As part of Allied Press we welcome your ideas and contributions, as they will help us to continue to expand our services and improve our business for our current and future readers.
Join us and be part of an award winning, supportive team that takes pride in delivering quality products for over 160 years.
How to Apply:
If you believe this role is a good fit for you, please apply via SEEK. Applications will be accepted until 31 January 2025. We will be in touch if you are shortlisted for this opportunity.
For more information see our website at alliedpress.co.nz/employment for a full position description, or contact Simon Byrne for a confidential discussion (ph. 021 706 936 em. simon@blenheimsun.co.nz)
URGENT services
Urgent Care Centre: Wairau Hospital Grounds. Entry off Hospital Rd, Blenheim, 8am-8pm daily. Phone (03) 520 6377. Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non urgent 578 0797.
Community Care Pharmacy: Within the Blenheim Warehouse, open 7 days 9am8pm. Only closed Christmas Day. Lifeline Marlborough: 0800 543354, 24hr helpline.
Women’s Refuge and Sexual Violence Support Centre Marlborough: Crisis line number phone 0800 refuge or 03 5779939.
Victim Support: 0800 VICTIM (0800 842 846)
Alcoholics Anonymous: 0800 AA WORKS - 0800 229 6757.
Wairau Hospital: Hospital Visiting Hours: Daily 2.30pm - 8pm, children under 12 may visit parents only.
Maternity Ward: 10am-noon, 4pm-7pm. Children's Ward: Daily 10am-8pm. Visiting at all times is subject to the discretion of the nurse in charge of the ward.
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
cooler.....etc etc Photos/Info: www. jwauctions.co.nz Fall of Hammer + GST John Walker - Auctioneer 027 443 2525
Community notices
Havelock Lions Club’s monthly market
Will be held on Saturday 25th January , outside the Havelock Town Hall 9am -1pm. There will be a good variety of stalls, including Okiwi Bay Market Garden. preserves, clothing, woollen items, crafts, soaps, books, art works, vegetables and fruit plus much more. Plenty of bargains to browse through. Enjoy a sausage sizzle and invest in a raffle ticket for a leg of Hogget. There are still sites available. $5. Ring Ian 574 2558
Scottish Country Dancing
Intro course starting Monday 10th February 7pm-8.30pm St Andrews Church Hall, corner Henry and Alfred Street, Blenheim. Cost $40 for 6 weeks. Contact Heather 02102587325 or Linda 0221656699
HYNDS: Kenneth Edwin
Death notices
A82731 RNZAF Passed unexpectedly but peacefully at home on 16 January 2025. Dearly loved husband of Robyn & father & father in-law of Terry & Vivienne, Christopher, Jonathan & Hana, Loving Granddad to Luke, Matthew & Kaedyn, Much loved brother & brother in-law of Trevor & Jocelynne, Chris & Anna & Paul, Loved uncle to all his nieces & nephews. Will be sadly missed, RIP Ken. Messages to c/- PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz 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 Thursday 23 January at 11am.
Cloudy Bay Funerals 03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z.
JENNINGS: William Arthur (Bill)
On 17 December 2024, aged 75 years. A Memorial service to celebrate Bill’s life will be held on Saturday 1 February at 11am in St Ninians Church, Alabama Rd Blenheim. In lieu of Flowers, donations can be made to Marlborough Hospice Trust (Account Number 03-1369-0365207-00 Ref: Jennings)
SCOTT, Jan Clarke (née Milliken):
With great sadness we announce the passing of Jan on Tuesday January 14, 2025, after a very long illness. Much loved mother and mother-inlaw of Megan and Lindsay, and Nigel. Adored Nana of Charlotte, Georgia and Hudson. Loved daughter of the late Beryl. Sister and brotherin-law of Sue and Tom, and the late Stephen. Adored by all her nieces and nephews. Many thanks to Aberleigh Village for all their support and ongoing care over the years. Messages to 49 Stanford Way, Rolleston 7615.
DEANE, Philip James (Phil)
METCALFE: Richard Francis (Frank) Passed away peacefully on Wednesday 15 January 2025 at Ashwood Park Rest Home, aged 78 years. Beloved husband of Di McCarthy-Metcalfe. A dearly loved father and father-in-law of Matthew and Liz, and Melanie and Nico Jamieson. A much-loved grandad of Ben and James, and a muchloved G-Pa to Sam and Roman, Jana, Jared and Jordan. A loved brother and brother-in-law to Lewis and Jean, Waveney and the late Reg, the late Wallace, and the late Rowan. Thank you to the wonderful care given to Frank during his time at Ashwood Park Oaks unit. Messages can be made out to Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz. Donations to Marlborough Four Paws would be gratefully appreciated and can be made via their website or at the funeral service. A funeral service for Frank will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street, Springlands, Blenheim on Friday 24 January at 1:00pm, followed by a private cremation. The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
Much loved brother and brother-in-law of John (deceased), Suzanne and Ray, Helen and Steve, Graham and Michelle, Andrew and families, loved stepbrother of Denise and Patrick, Bridget and Dave, and Cindy and families would like to thank everyone for their love and support on his passing. Their attendance at his service in Upper Hutt on the 8th January and with the 23 mini’s present were much appreciated. The donations to the Wellington Special Needs Children’s Christmas Party at our Givealittle page https://givealittle.co.nz will be going towards a new bouncy castle for the children. Your support and love has been a huge comfort to his family and friends.
DEVINE, James William (Jim)
Nancy, Jillian & Pete, Michael, Jo-Anne & Mark would like to thank everyone for their kindness with the cards and flowers we received with the passing of Jim. Loved Husband, Father and Father In-Law. It was much appreciated by us all. Please accept this as a personal acknowledgement.
MARK, James Langton (Jim)
25.01.2016
You have left my life but will be forever in my heart. Remembered always
workers looking for accommodation for the Harvest period (March 2025- May 2025). If you can assist, please email Alistair at alistair.mcintosh@nzwineries.co.nz
Win a Fishing Trip
Sponsored by
Renwick ARms countRy club
Family
Friday 21st, Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd of February with prizegiving being held on Sunday
Thousands of dollars worth of prizes to be won
Entries cost members $30.00. Non Members $35.00 Junior under 12 - $5.00 Entry Forms available at outlets displaying posters or at Renwick Arms Country Club 92 High Street, Renwick. All enquiries to Renwick Arms Country Club ph: 027 572 8597 | www.renwickarms.co.nz email: office@renwickarms.co.nz Entries close 9.00pm Wednesday 19th February.
Admin Support
NEAL: Carol Lynette
On Wednesday, 15th of January 2025, aged 78 years at Hospice Marlborough. A loved mother of Jackie and Raymond. A muchloved nana of Dillon and Caleb. A loved daughter to the late Ted and Doris (Dos) Neal of the Wairau Valley. Thanks to Hospice Marlborough and Wairau hospital staff for their wonderful care given to Carol. Messages to Cloudy Bay Funeral Services PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Marlborough Hospice Trust would be appreciated and can be made via their website. At Carol’s request a private cremation has taken place.
We have a position available on reception at The Blenheim Sun office.
Two days per week - Wednesday / Thursday 9am-5pm. The role includes front desk and admin support, payroll, spreadsheet reconciliation, and assisting with delivery coordination. Some experience in these areas would be advantageous. Immediate start.
If you enjoy dealing with people and have a sense of humour, join our great team who publish Marlborough’s favourite weekly newspaper!
Apply by emailing a covering letter detailing any relevant experience you have to: simon@blenheimsun.co.nz
Applications accepted until January 31st, 2025.
Antique & Classic boatshow set to go
By Chris Valli
It’s full steam ahead for the New Zealand Antique & Classic Boatshow at Lake Rotoiti in early March.
A stunning alpine backdrop, the beauty of old boats and a uniquely quirky vibe, have built an international reputation for Nelson’s Antique & Classic Boat Show, which will be celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Billed as a weekend of ‘Glorious Hydromatic Relaxation’ there will be displays on land from early morning, with races on the lake in the afternoon, both days.
Sleek cedar kayaks, jet boats from the 60s, veteran sailing craft and hours of
effort in meticulous restorations will be on display in the spectacular setting of the Nelson Lakes National Park.
In 1999 there were 35 home-built clinkers and runabouts on the lake.
In 2025, 50 boats are expected, and spectators are promised classic Italian motorboats, early Hamilton jets, veteran sailing craft, 1950’s runabouts, and a speedy motorised bathtub.
The Boat Show has been named the ‘most unique boat show on the planet’, by the US based ‘media empire and web forum’ WoodyBoater. Nautical photographer Steve Lapkin has attended several shows and the accolade ran alongside his photos of the 2024 show on the popular website.
“It’s official, the world has spoken, this is the most unique boat show on the planet, new, old, in a convention centre, small old marina, this show exhibits the uniqueness of what is possible in boat design. I love it,” wrote Matt Smith who founded the WoodyBoat site in 2007.
Judging is on Saturday, ahead of the evening awards ceremony at the Alpine Lodge. At stake is the Jens Hansen Trophy where the judges are after good looks as well as history, construction, and a boat with a story to tell.
The show is supported by the Nelson Regional Development Agency in recognition of the economic benefits it brings to the region.
Summer of Harness
Marlborough Harness Racing Club hosted another successful Summer of Harness meeting over the weekend on Friday 17th and Sunday 19th January. Good crowds turned out on both days to enjoy the thrills and entertainment of Harness Racing at Waterlea Race Course.
Mako new Crusaders captain
By Chris Valli
Tasman Mako David Havili is the new Crusaders Super Rugby captain for the upcoming season. Havili, the first Tasman Mako to captain the Crusaders, takes over from All Blacks skipper Scott Barrett, with Crusaders coach Rob Penney deeming it too demanding for the lock to hold both roles.
“It’s very humbling. I was pretty blown away when Penney approached me,” Havili says. “This is certainly the proudest moment I have had for a while. The Crusaders are all about community and I love this team.”
Havili has played 128 games for the franchise since debuting in 2015. He was named vice captain in 2020 and has long been part of the Crusaders leadership group.
The 30-year-old, who plays mostly in the midfield, captained Tasman to victory in the 2019 and 2020 NPC seasons.
Havili will lead the Crusaders on Friday in their first pre-season game against the Blues at Kirwee Rugby Club.
The son of former Nelson Bays rugby representative Bill Havili, David was born in Nelson, but raised in Motueka.
Golf Results
Blenheim
It’s full steam ahead for the NZ Antique & Classic Boatshow at Lake Rotoiti on 1 - 2 March, the 25th anniversary of the event.
The view from the pace vehicle as another race gets underway.
Sisters Joey and Emma Mortimer enjoy the racing on Sunday.
Winner of Race 2 on Sunday, Two Ticks, driven by Samantha Ottley
