Marlborough Weekly - 24 December 2019 by TSM Marlborough

SUMMER 2019/20

Field of in our region dreams

WHAT'S ON Daredevil’s dream

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Page 11 - 15

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Santa Paws is coming to town From left, Jack Russell Gus, Huntaway Rum, Border Collie Meg from Pukematai Farm in Spring Creek get into the festive spirit. Photo: Amy White.

Recipe of thanks for paramedics Matt Brown Reporter

matt@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

A man who collapsed at home has turned to a 58-year-old wed-

ding gift in a bid to say thanks to the paramedics who rescued him. Don Helman collapsed at his Blenheim home and a St John ambulance crew rushed him to

Wairau Hospital. The retired pharmacist has since made more than 2500 jars of marmalade as a way of raising funds for the St John’s team who came to his aid.

And to carry out this feat of kindness, he used a recipe book he and wife Maureen were given for their wedding more than five decades earlier. Don says he told St John volun-

teers at their secondhand store in Springlands, "I could make you a jar or two." “A particular morning, I walked

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TUESDAY 24 December 2019

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Council candidates count cost of election

Chloe Ranford Local Democracy Reporter

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Two former council candidates could face police prosecution in Marlborough for not filing their election expenses in time. Electoral officer Dean Heiford confirmed mayoral candidate Rick Ireland and Blenheim ward candidate Phil Skinner would be reported to police for not declaring what they spent on their election campaign by December 10. Candidates were given 55 days from this year’s local body election, on October 12, to submit their expenses and donations. Failure to declare expenses “without reasonable excuse” was an offence and could lead to a fine of up to $1000 under the Local Electoral Act. Heiford said each of Marlborough’s 31 council candidates were sent multiple emails re-

minding them of the deadline. Both Ireland and Skinner were warned by phone the day before the due date, but only Ireland picked up, he said. Heiford was required as electoral officer to report the offences to police and provide them with details of any inquiries he thought might be relevant. “It’s up to them [the police] to see if they do any prosecution action,” he said. Ireland said he missed the deadline thanks to his “frantic” schedule. This included a new job as a yacht broker, home schooling his two children, and two active court cases. “I was supposed to [file election expenses], and I’m still going to. There’s not a question of not doing it, but when ... I’m very busy,” he says. Skinner could not be reached

Rick Ireland. Photo: Supplied. before the publication of this article. The council’s 2019 Campaign Handbook set an election campaign limit of $30,000 for mayoral candidates and up to $20,000 for ward candidates. Topping this term’s campaign costs was Marlborough Mayor John Leggett, who spent $25,470 on his campaign, less than the $29,775 he spent in 2016. Leggett spent just over $15,000 on marketing services, and about $10,400 on advertising with local

media. Runner-up mayoral candidate and current Blenheim ward councillor Jamie Arbuckle spent a few thousand less, forking out $14,157, minus a $5000 donation in the form of newspaper advertising. Wairau-Awatere ward councillor Francis Maher clocked the most of all ward candidates, spending $11,375, $2625 short of the ward’s $14,000 limit. Maher also spent $570 on mail distributor ReachMedia, which misplaced 4000 of candidate Philip Vink’s flyers, and $1000 at Forté Management, which taught businesses to empower their staff through positive psychology. All other council candidates kept campaign costs under $5000.

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TUESDAY 24 December 2019

Marmalade gift a lifesaver six hours to make and Don makes up to two batches a week. He likes to have a supply ready to go when the shop sells out. He uses lemons and oranges donated from neighbours’ trees. “Our biggest bugbear is that the jars that we get – it’s lovely that we get the jars – but the labels are still on them. “Before we can even start, we have to soak them and then scrape the labels off them. That’s one thing we wish we didn’t have to do.” The fruit is boiled first in its juice until the rind goes soft then adds the sugar and brings it up to the boil. “It takes about an hour after that. It’s quite a long process it takes about six hours, from start to finish. “I had no idea how much marmalade people want, and it just grew really,” Don says. The batch is then set aside in a back room overnight to set. Maureen helps slice up the peel and with the testing process. “Testing it. It’s bubble, bubble, bubble like a witch’s cauldron,” she says. Don says he’s happy to be able to help. “The marmalade is just repayment for what was done.”

FROM PAGE 1 across the kitchen and hit the floor,” he says. “I said, send for an ambulance. They were here very quickly.” A paramedic wired Don up to an electrocardiograph during the short ambulance trip. “They put me on an ECG monitor, and on the way, they got something. “The paramedic in the ambulance ran into the hospital and spoke with the house surgeon. “When she came back, she said we think you need a pacemaker – we’re arranging for you to go to Nelson.” Neither Don nor Maureen know who the “fantastic” paramedic was. “She was just amazing,” Maureen says. “She knew what was wrong with him more or less straight away.” “They’re always there for an emergency,” Don says. Ten pounds of fruit and eleven pounds of sugar goes into a batch – that makes about 27 jars. Affectionately known as ‘the man’s marmalade’, the tasty spread is a favourite at the St John store. Each batch takes around

Don and Maureen Helman. Photo: Matt Brown.

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TUESDAY 24 December 2019

Christmas wishes

Thelma Sowman If I could have anything in the world for Christmas it would be good company, laughter, a fresh seafood feast, wine and sunshine on a warm sunny Marlborough day......and maybe a new pair of shoes!! Merry Christmas to everyone in Marlborough.

Little Red Fox Hub After School Club, from left, Ryder Nichollas, Ella Burnip, Jai Cootes, Richie McRae, Ishana Massey and Emily Hulburt, put the finishing touches to the tree. Photo: Paula Hulburt.

Festival first for crustacean celebration Two headline music acts are set to make a festival first in Marlborough. For the first time in its 16year history, the Havelock Mussel & Seafood Festival are bringing two major music icons to the stage. Tiki Taane along with New Zealand’s favourite SuperBand The Phoenix Foundation have been announced as the main acts at the 2020 festival. They will be supported by festival favourites Sun City Soul, and Havelock’s Band of Locals. Organiser Hans Neilson says the confirmation is “a big win” for the region. “Tiki Taane is one of the most iconic names in New Zealand music, and is beyond a per-

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fect fit with the festival, it’s a big win for Marlborough and the festival.” “Our biggest point of pride is that we’re able to deliver such a high quality event that is affordable, accessible, and true to its legacy as Marlborough’s most family friendly festival,” he says. Chefs Two Raw Sisters will be joining for the first time, supported by Chris Fortune and Paulie Hooton in the culinary tent. Festival favourites such as cooking demonstrations, competitions, market stalls, industry displays, the KidsZone, and a crack at the Guinness World Record attempt for mussel opening will also return next year. “Over the years the event has

Last year’s mussel festival. Photo: Supplied. raised over $200,000 for the Marlborough community, so the bigger the festival gets, the more our community benefits,” Hans says. “This is a point of pride for our Festival goers, and we’re fortunate to be supported by such a great bunch of local businesses and sponsors that get behind the festival and are all part of the bigger family.”

The festival is priced to be family friendly and a day to be enjoyed by everyone of all ages. Tickets cost $40 for general admission, and kids 12 and under cost $5. Tickets available at www. ticketek.co.nz/musselfest Transport options are available for festivalgoers with several options available as ticket add-ons.

NMIT and Waka Abel Tasman What if you could trade a classroom or lecture NMIT Superyacht Crewing tutor Pete Carmitheatre for one of the most beautiful coastlines chael says the Waka Abel Tasman experience in New Zealand? That’s what NMIT Tourism helps students to band together and get to and Travel and Maritime students get to do know one another. every year, working with Waka Abel Tasman in “Because it’s day two of their course, the stuAbel Tasman National Park. The relationship dents turn up as a big disparate group and no with Waka Abel Tasman and other tourism one knows each other. operators in the region is part of NMIT’s com- “Then all of a sudden we go out and we’re mitment to providing students with real-world, chucked on a boat together. If you don’t padhands-on educadle together the boat tion. Waka Abel doesn’t move very Tasman owners well so it’s an aweTodd and Lee-Anne some metaphor for Jago play an imporwhat they’ve got to tant part in delivdo.” ering this unique “It’s really important brand of education to get students out to NMIT students. so that they get to Todd was NMIT’s meet industry opWaka Abel Tasman and the NMIT Tourism Level Adventure Tourism erators, and to hear 4 students. programme coordiwhat people in those nator for 20 years and is still involved as a con- frontline positions actually do.” Katrina says. tractor, so he knows how important real-world The focus on learning outside the classroom in experience is for students. a wide variety of settings makes the study ex“I love to share our Māori culture and tikanga perience more engaging and exciting for stuwith the students and all manuhiri (visitors),” dents. Recent Adventure Tourism and Guiding Todd says. graduate, Shania Kuipers, described her time at “We think being on the water and being aware NMIT as “the most fun I’ve ever had”. of kaitiakitanga, and whanaungatanga is really To anyone considering following in her footuplifting for people. Being in the waka brings steps, she says: “Do it. It’ll be the best two years people together, you have to look after each of your life.” other and the environment around you. Business Update. Adv.

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TUESDAY 24 December 2019

Bigger bunker a boon for festive season A giant new bunker used for recycled glass is open for empties – just in time for the busy festive season. The Blenheim Resource Recovery Centre has nearly doubled its glass recycling capabilities thanks to a funds boost. A $15,000 grant from the Glass Packaging Forum (GPF) plus $50,000 from Marlborough District Council paid for the new bunker. Council solid waste manager Alec McNeil says that at this time of year the old bunkers would quickly full up. However, by increasing the bunker size by 80 per cent, this should no longer be an

issue, he says. “The additional storage capacity for glass will ensure that the quality of cullet (recycled glass) being returned to O-I New Zealand (in Auckland) for processing is not compromised,” he says. O-I New Zealand is the country’s only container glass manufacturer and uses recycled glass to make new bottles. Glass must be sorted into clear, green and brown before it can be used to make new glass bottles. Glass Packaging Forum Scheme manager Dominic Salmon says the centre plays an important role in getting

Marlborough District Council solid waste manager Alex McNeil at Blenheim’s recycling centre. Photo: Matt Brown. cullet from the South Island to Auckland. “Funding projects like this, which result in improving the quality and quantity of glass available for recycling is a main objective of the GPF,” he says.

The GPF has help fund other projects in Marlborough, including rural recycling containers in Seddon, Okiwi Bay, Awatere Valley and Oyster Bay, as well as the new recycling hub at Havelock Marina.

New book a tribute to pioneering kiwis A passion for preserving the past has inspired a Marlborough writer to capture the lives of pioneering New Zealanders in a new book. Author Tony Orman has released Down a Country Road II after the earlier success of his previous book. He returns to New Zealand’s challenging and beautiful back country and the colourful personalities who have made these isolated regions

their home. Tony says he wanted to write a second book to ensure their stories did not get lost with the passing of time. “Otherwise their remarkable lives and ways get covered by the dusts of time and vanish.” Down a Country Road II features stories of resilience and survival as these hardened Kiwis wrestle a living from the land despite extreme conditions.

Tony Orman’s new book. There’s tragedy and triumphs, humour and fortitude and battles against the elements and harsh conditions all within the pages of Down a

Country Road II. Tony Orman has worked as an editor and journalist for many years and is also a keen recreational fisherman and hunter. Down a Country Road, Stories from New Zealand’s Heartland, was also published by New Holland and sold out in just six weeks. Marlborough Weekly has two copies to give to readers. Email Paula@marlboroughweekly.co.nz by the 6 January.

Christmas wishes

Mark Peters My holistic Christmas wish is to see World peace, harmony and a reflection on what Christmas really represents. My personal wish is to get the time to read the books I hope to receive for Christmas!!

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The recycling container at Foxs Island in Renwick was removed last week following a spate of illegal rubbish dumping. Council’s solid waste manager, Alec McNeil says the actions of a minority are spoiling it for everyone else.

TUESDAY 24 December 2019

Christmas wishes

Gerald Hope Joy to the world and all living things. Global peace, a restful New Zealand, personal fulfilment and sharing an abundant table of fresh seasonal foods. Most important to me having all the family around the table to celebrate the past year while looking forward with optimism to the year ahead’

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Lost penguin finds freedom after treatment A rescued Little Blue Penguin lost in a Picton container yard is back in the wild in time for Christmas. The confused penguin was discovered earlier this month wandering around in broad daylight. Three weeks later the bird was fully-recovered and released at Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary near Picton. “We are lucky as this was a quick rehab of only three weeks” says EcoWorld’s director John Reuhman. “The team has cared for the Little Blue really well and by ensuring the bird maintained its wild nature it should have adapted well for its return into the wild,” he says. The Little Blue was one of four cared for at EcoWorld Aquarium’s wildlife rehabilitation centre recently. John says it has been a busy spring, and, despite their best efforts, three penguins bought in did not survive. “Although we tried hard, another three penguins brought into rehab were too ill and died in our care.” EcoWorld Aquarium works

EcoWorld director John Reuhman with the Little Blue Penguin who was rescued earlier this month. Photo: Supplied. with local vet Christine MacKenzie. John says people should be careful around Little Blue Penguins. “It’s penguin breeding season and more injured and sick Little Penguins are expected to ar-

rive at EcoWorld Aquarium. “If you find a sick or injured Little Blue Penguin please contact EcoWorld, your local DOC office of the SPCA for advice. “Please take care, Little Blue Penguins are wild animals and they do peck.”

Christmas wishes

Barbara Faulls I guess in light of the last few days my answer is that everyone stays safe and enjoys the company of family this Christmas and New Year Season. Our country has seen far too much tragedy this year and I wish for all friends, family and the wider community a Christmas full of memories, lots of Marlborough sunshine, Snapper on the line (not Spotties), bare feet in the tide and happy times at home with loved ones. Best present as a child: a pony called Barney.

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TUESDAY 24 December 2019

Daredevil’s flight of fancy Pilot, entrepreneur and risk taker, Jack Gould flew across the Cook Strait in an amphibious plane. Here, Marlborough Weekly reader and amateur historian Nigel Perry recounts some of Jack’s daring adventures. John (Jack) Mervyn Gould was born near Wakefield in late 1927. History has it that Jack was constantly getting up to mischief. Jack was obsessed with making money and was always on the look out for the next big thing. Near the end of the Second World War, Jack changed his birth name from Goul to Gould. He told people he had been a fighter pilot in the Pacific and although he had been in the air force, he was ground based.

err y .

Jack was instrumental in setting up the Paraparaumu Flying School, with himself as the first pupil. He purchased a Tiger Moth and proudly painted it orange before embarking on a programme of buying surplus war aircraft, including more than a 100 Airspeed Oxfords, several Tiger Moths and

two Walrus amphibian biplanes stored at Woodbourne. The Oxfords cost him ten pounds ($20) each and he sold them on for 32 pounds and ten shillings ($65) each. Jack then talked air force bosses into restoring two of the Oxfords and painting them in the chosen livery colours of Gould Air Service, orange. He intended to use the two Oxfords for freight work and the Walrus amphibians for port work. As sales of the Oxfords got underway, Jack became a familiar sight in and around Blenheim in his orange painted Ford Mercury car. He would also often visit in his Tiger Moth, loading it for the return flight with items for resale. He would sometimes arrive at Paraparaumu with less than he’d stashed in the rear cockpit as turbulence cost him some of his cargo. To get Gould Air Services up and running, he needed to get his Walrus aircrafts to Paraparaumu. Both had stood in the open at Woodbourne since decommission in 1945. On 11 June 1947, Jack flew the unregistered plane across Cook Strait and landed on the beach. According to notes in the press at the time he was alleg-

A Walrus amphibian biplane. Photo: Supplied. edly warned by the station commanding officer that the plane was not even to be taxied on the aerodrome, let alone flown. But undaunted, Jack climbed into the cockpit, opened the throttle and sent the ponderous Walrus roaring across the runway for a good cross wind take-off. To astonished witnesses, he appeared to have the aircraft fully under control. He landed at Paraparaumu Beach an hour later to be given a 20 pound ($40) fine

and a stern rebuke from air department staff. He was warned not to fly the Walrus planes again until they were air worthy and registered for civilian use. But later, again ignoring officials, he taxied from the Wairau Bar in July 1947, taking his wife on a sevenhour trip which she later recalled as being as much under the water as above it. The two Walrus aircraft never flew again. The final straw came when he offered a group of eight men a

cheap flight to Christchurch from Wellington. Sitting on bench seats and made to link arms on take off and landing, the men faced an expensive return trip, forcing them to make their own way home after Jack was grounded. His candle burned brightly but briefly: on 24 December 1947 he gave one of his friends a Christmas Eve surprise and went roaring over the house at low level before he struck a power pole and was killed after his plane burst into flames.

Opinion

TUESDAY 24 December 2019

Shouldn’t a pākehā know more Māori history? Last month, a national celebration took place – Tuia 250 – commemorating 250 years since Captain James Cook and Tahitian navigator Tupaia first came to Aotearoa. Reporter Matt Brown was lucky enough to be part of the historic event.

Matt Brown Reporter

matt@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

The event was billed as an opportunity to hold honest conversations about the past, the present and how we navigate our shared future. But as the searing Marlborough sun turned my pasty, pākehā skin red and local iwi officially welcomed the guests with haka and speeches, I realised I wasn’t particularly well equipped for the conversation. I don’t speak Māori. Travelling to the remote bay in the Marlborough Sounds, children from Omaka Marae singing

waiata, the excitement in the air was palpable. And as the masts of the tall ships appeared on the horizon and dolphins leapt through the water alongside, the sun glittering on the water, I found myself reflecting on the contrast of the Māori people’s connection with the past, and my almost complete disconnect. Now, I can’t say I’ve spent all that much time thinking about Captain Cook, but I admit I was a wee bit surprised when the Endeavour replica was given the moniker, ‘Death Ship’, in mainstream news. My history education is sorely lacking, and in small-town, South Island, rural Blenheim – I was brought up to believe Cook was one of the last great explorers. And perhaps, despite his shortcomings, he was. 250 years ago, Captain James Cook sailed into Meretoto, or Ships Cove, to perform repairs to his ship, the Endeavour. Cook loved the spot so much he effectively made the spot his base of operations – spending more time there than anywhere else in New Zealand.

AN OPPORTUNITY AWAITS

Waka welcome the replica of the Endeavour to Meretoto. Photo: Matt Brown. Interpreter and liaison, high priest and skilled navigator in his own right, Tupaia was able to calm waters between the English ‘goblins’ and the native Māori people and created bonds of friendship and respect. It is little wonder that iwi lamented when, on subsequent voyages, they learned of his death. The event was moving, the location magical – but in translation, something is always lost. I asked Omaka Marae manager Kiley Nepia how he thought Marlborough would look in 50 years.

And on the surface, that was the gist of the celebrations – 250 years ago white dudes ‘discovered’ New Zealand. There’s so much more than that. Prior to Tuia 250, I didn’t know who Tupaia was. I may not have been listening in class – or maybe I was one of the rare teenagers who was correct when I said I thought school was not the be all and end all. For those who are in my boat, or ship as it were, Tupaia is the single reason Captain Cook’s voyage was successful.

He told me he hoped it had “browned up” by then. Reflecting on my cultural identity, or lack thereof, I hope he’s right. Watching people from the various tribes of Marlborough, I was struck by how history is a living thing. To them, the wounds of the past are still raw because the past isn’t an abstract thing. Fifty years from now, at Tuia 300, I hope not only for more cultural diversity but the casual racism endemic to the region be but a distant memory.

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TUESDAY 24 December 2019

A popular Marlborough Sounds lodge is now offering tourist activities with a sister company, Sounds Fun.

Lochmara Lodge manager Bruce Anderson says Sounds Fun was introduced as a way of extending their offerings at and around Lochmara. “You might get a family of four or five and people often want to do

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different things, some are happy sitting at the café having a glass of wine while some people want to kayak five kilometres, or walk five kilometres, it’s giving them those options,” he says. Situated on Picton’s foreshore, the Sounds Fun Booking office provides a central location for locals and visitors to book their adventure. They offer both tours and activities including boat trips, kayaks, paddleboards, walking trails, mountain bike tours and helicopter flights, which is an extension of existing attractions including the native wildlife and underwater observatory. “We looked at what was already successful at Lochmara and how we could work more closely with other operators and create a more exciting experience here in Marlborough,” Bruce says. Bookings can be made now at the new Sounds Fun office on the foreshore, or by calling 03 573 4554. The elite providers in the collective: Pelorus Air: Specialists in showcasing the beautiful region through a range of scenic flights. A new addition to the fleet, their 2015 GA8 Airvan is complete with large windows, making it perfect for scenic Marlborough Sounds. Exploring the bays and bush of the sounds, you will see secluded homes the many stunning bays. Fly down the Koromiko Valley for views of the Wairau River and Marlborough’s wine country.

Marlborough Trike Tours and Pelorus Air are just some of the fun ways to see stunning Marlborough with Sounds Fun. Precision Helicopters NZ: Precision Helicopters offer helifishing and heli-hunting experiences, flying you into the beautiful Marlborough Sounds and taking you to spots which offer the best chances of catching great fish, or into the backcountry with a team for a hunting weekend. If you’d prefer to relax, take a helicopter flight to Lochmara Lodge to enjoy the food, wine, walking, kayaking, paddleboarding, wildlife and beautiful surrounds, including pristine and untouched places waiting to be explored Katabatic Charters: Offering tailored sightseeing, fishing and diving charters around the Marlborough Sounds, Katabatic Charters is the ultimate way to get up close and personal with the sights and wildlife of the area. Spend the morning with a spot of fishing or diving, before relaxing with a glass of Marlborough wine and some freshly caught seafood, prepared and cooked by owner Grant Orchard, who also happens to be an experienced chef. There is also transport for walkers doing the Queen Charlotte Track, dropping them at their desired location and

collecting them later in the day to provide them with dinner, and if they wish, a good night’s sleep on board. Marlborough Trike Tours: Marlborough Trike Tours offer a unique sightseeing adventure throughout all of Marlborough, whether you want to explore the Queen Charlotte Sound, the Wairau Plains and vineyards or the Kaikoura Coast. Powered by a 5.7 litre V8 engine, zoom your way around the region and take in the stunning sights along the way. It’s the ultimate adventure tour. Suitable for anyone from kids to elderly to those with physical challenges, the experienced tour guides will share their intimate knowledge of the region and the individual places you’re visiting. The tours range in length from 20 minutes to a full day, including the Quick Blast, Scenic Tour and Wineries or Custom Tour with full Trike hire. A four passenger seater and two passenger seater means that a tour can cater for up to 6 people for a thrilling day out in Marlborough.

Feature

TUESDAY 24 December 2019

WHAT'S ON

in our region

Looking for ways to make the most of our Marlborough Summer? Check out these top picks to add to your summer diary Visit https://marlboroughnz.com/events/ for more happening in our region Happy Summer Celebrating New Year’s Doubles Tournament Where: Rapaura Tennis Club When: Friday 27th December 2019 – Sunday 29th December 2019, 10am For more info, visit the Rapaura Tennis Club on Facebook.Social mixed doubles will be played on Friday 27th December. Women’s and Men’s doubles will be played on Saturday & Sunday 28th & 29th December.You do not have to be playing in the tournament as you are welcome to come along and watch and enjoy catering and Wairau River Wines. Marlborough Flyer Steam Train – Super Special Sunday Where: Blenheim Railway Station When: Sunday 29th December, 12:10pm – 3pm Buy Tickets: 03 974 1812 Website: www.marlboroughflyer.co.nz enjoy breath-taking views along the Dashwood Pass and the picturesque Awatere Valley, before crossing the historic Awatere River Bridge into Seddon. New Year’s Eve Party with Masden Promotions Where: Clubs of Marlborough When: Tuesday 31st December, 8:30pm – 12:00am Admission: $40 Want to dance your way into the New Year then this is the Show for you. Madsen Promotions sell out again and again when they play here so don’t leave getting tickets until the last minute. Ignite Marlborough – New Year’s Eve Celebration 2019 Family Entertainment Where: Picton Foreshore, London Quay. When: Tuesday 31st December, 7:00pm – 12:00am Join us to for Marlborough’s biggest New Year’s eve celebration! Starting at 7pm, this is a smoke

free and alcohol free event. Picton Foreshore will be the place to be to ring in the New Year! Music, food, entertainment, and Fireworks! Marlborough Flyer Steam Train – Kekerengu Day Trip Marlborough Flyer Steam Train – Super Special Sunday Where: Blenheim Railway Station When: Sunday 5th January, 12:10pm – 3pm Buy Tickets: 03 974 1812 Website: www.marlboroughflyer.co.nz Journey with us on a majestic steam train ride from a bygone era. The two-hour outbound journey from Blenheim winds its way through the Dashwood Pass and majestic Awatere Valley, taking in magnificent coastal views of the Pacific Ocean en route to Kekerengu.Disembark in Kekerengu at “The Store” to enjoy leisure time, lunch, refreshments, or join a tour of the renowned Winterhome Garden (these optional extras can be added when making a booking). DEPARTURE TIMES: Train departs Blenheim 10h10 ; Train arrives Kekerengu 12h05 ; Train departs Kekerengu 15h00 ; Train arrives Blenheim 17h45 The Great Momorangi Treasure Hunt Where: Momorangi Bay Campground When: Thursday 9th January, 6:30pm – 8:00pm Fun for all ages! Come and discover natures treasures in The Great Momorangi Treasure Hunt. You’ll be given a list of nature’s treasures to find, then learn how to identify them using old-fashioned ID books and new-fangled ID apps! Fun for kids and kids at heart. Meet us at the top kitchen block. Bring warm clothes, solid shoes and your thinking caps!

The annual King and Queen of the Withers race is on Saturday 11 January.

Feature

TUESDAY 24 December 2019

WHAT'S ON

in our region

King and Queen of the Withers Where: Rifle Range Carpark When: Saturday, 11th January 7:00am – 10:30am Website: www.harriers.net.nz Run or walk or both this popular 10k hill race in the Wither Hills farm park, Blenheim. Great views over the town across to Taylor Pass and a challenging but fun course attracts participants of all abilities, from first timers giving it a go to some of New Zealand’s top runners. Prize Giving, Sausage sizzle & refreshments. Performances prize for King of

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at 2019’s Ignite Marlborough on the Picton Foreshore. the Withers plus Queen of the Withers then spot prizes open to all. Family Fishing Day Where: Lake Argyle, Ward. When: Saturday 18th January 10:00am – 2:00pm Admission: Free Come and have a go at trout fishing at one of the region’s best fishing destinations: Lake Argyle. Be in to win some great prizes, including the chance to catch some lucky tagged trout which could net you a $500 Henderson’s voucher plus other great prizes! There will be fishing guides there to help you set up your fishing gear and teach you all you need to catch fish. Fish & Game will release a tanker load of fish during the day which you’ll be able to see - including some monster trout over 10 pounds! There will be a BBQ provided and even a fish smoker on hand if you’re lucky enough to catch a trout and feel like fresh smoked trout - a real delicacy! Beach Fest (R13) Where: Picton Foreshore, London Quay When: Friday, January 31st, 6:00pm – 9:00pm. For more info visit, myt.org.nz Marlborough Youth Trust is hosting another back to school beach party for all youth aged 13yrs - 24yrs based at the Picton Foreshore with

a live DJ playing throughout, inflatables, volleyball competitions, food vendors, stallholders, competitions and much more! Tickets $5pp, door sales also. Renwick Summer Concert Where: Giesen Sports and Events Centre When: Saturday, 1st February 4:00pm – 7:00pm Admission: Free For more info, visit www.marlborough4fun. co.nz Summer time family fun in the gorgeous park surrounds of the Renwick Domain, Village Green. Free entertainment for the whole family with live music on the main stage. Plenty on offer for the kids with inflatables and face painting. Even virtual helicopter tours using the latest in drone technology. World Wetland Day Celebration When: 2nd February, 10:00am – 1:00pm Where: Wairau Rowing Club Admission: Free Celebrate World Wetland Day by experiencing the community-led wetland restoration project Grovetown Lagoon with a walk around the lagoon (3.2km; flat/graded track and boardwalks). There will be activities for the kids. Dogs on leads welcome.

Feature

TUESDAY 24 December 2019

WHAT'S ON

in our region

Marlborough Wine and Food Festival Market Where: Blenheim CBD, Market Street. When: Friday 7th February, 9:00am – 5:00pm Admission: Free Why not grab some friends and kick start the Wine & Food Festival weekend and enjoy a fun filled day with a visit to the annual festival market. Marlborough Wine and Food Festival 2020 (R18) Where: Brancott Estate When: Saturday, 8th February 10:30am – 6:00pm Website: www.wine-marlborough-festival.co.nz Festival-goers will get the opportunity to sample a unique selection of world-class wines, enjoy delicious local cuisine and dance to their heart’s content with music from some of New Zealand’s top bands all in the heart of one of Marlborough’s oldest and most picturesque vineyards, Brancott Vineyard. Marlborough Wine and Food Wind Down Where: The Vines Village When: Sunday, February 9th 10:00am – 5.30pm Admission: Free A free family friendly festival celebrating the best of Marlborough food, wine & beer set amongst the expansive grounds of The Vines Village, Marlborough on Sunday after the Marlborough Wine & Food Festival from 10am til 5pm. The VVC Gourmet BBQ will be running too so relax and chill amongst the spacious lakeside grounds. Live music from 11am with performances from some of Marlborough’s best talent: South Island Show Jumping Championships Where: Marlborough Equestrian Park When: Saturday, February 5th (8:00am) and Sunday February 16th (8:00am) Admission: Free Some of the best Show Jumpers in the country will be in Marlborough to compete at the South Island Show Jumping Championships. With classes up to Olympic height 1.60m it is sure to showcase some thrilling jumping. The first time in 20 years that a show of this standard has been in Marlborough.

favourites Sun City Soul, and Havelocks Band of Locals. To tantalise your taste-buds we also have Two Raw Sisters joining the Festival for the first time, supported by Chris Fortune and Paulie Hooton in the culinary tent. With a great line-up of live music and entertainment, delicious food, fine

Get sandy hands at the More FM Beach Day. More FM Beach Day Where: Whites Bay When: Sunday, February 16th 10:30am – 2:00pm Admission: Free A fun day out for the whole family with a BBQ, competitions, actives and tons of prizes up for grabs. Picton Summer Concert 2020 Where: Picton Foreshore When: Saturday 22nd February 2:00pm – 4.00pm Summer time family fun on the gorgeous Picton Foreshore! Complete with live music, food stalls and refreshments and plenty to keep the kids entertained! NZ House and Garden Tours Where: Blenheim i-SITE Visitor Centre When: Friday 13th March, 10am – 4pm Website: www.nzhouseandgardentours.co.nz Step inside the pages of your favourite magazine and experience some of the regions most outstanding homes and gardens – all in support of Breast Cancer Foundation NZ. Gather your friends for a day of fun and discovery on a selfdrive tour, for a great cause. Havelock Mussel and Seafood Festival 2020 Where: Havelock Domain When: Saturday March 14th, 10am to 6:00pm Website: www.havelockmusselfestival.co.nz The 2020 HMSF will be headlined by NZ Music Icon Tiki Taane, along with New Zealand’s favourite Super-Band The Phoenix Foundation. Supporting both headline acts will be festival

TUESDAY 24 December 2019

Feature

WHAT'S ON

in our region climbing wall, making it the first centre of its kind in Blenheim. Entertain the kids for hours while you relax. Little Red Fox Hub can be hired for parties and also features a bouncy castle, outdoor play area and sandpit. Opening hours - Saturday 10 am to 2 pm Preschool $6 5-12 years $7

beer and wine and seafood, summer in Marlborough wouldn’t be complete without the Havelock Mussel and Seafood Festival. The 2020 event will also include all the Festival Favorites like cooking demonstrations, competitions, market stalls, industry displays, the KidsZone to keep the wee ones busy, and of course another crack at the Guinness World record attempt for mussel opening.

Kayaking in the Sounds with Sea Kayak Adventures

Take the whole whanau to the Lake Argyle Family Fishing Day in Ward. Sport Tasman Marlborough Muddy Buddy Where: Havelock Marina When: Saturday March 21st 12:00pm – 4pm Website: www.sporty.co.nz Sport Tasman Marlborough Muddy Buddy offers all the fun that can be found on an estuary. Be one of those fleet footed dare devils who will navi-

gate the water, mud, slippery slide and hurdles to complete a loop of absolute fun! Little Red Fox Hub A top of the range soft indoor playground has been installed in one of Marlborough’s newest childcare facilities. The Witherlea facility features ball machines, trampolines, slides and a rock

The Marlborough Sounds offer some of the best outdoor settings in New Zealand. In Anakiwa, on the popular Queen Charlotte Drive, there is one of the best experiences in NZ. In the large purpose built base on the Queen Charlotte Drive, Sea Kayak Adventures are only minutes from the best Sea Kayaking, Mountain Biking and Hiking that the Sounds has to offer. Specialising in nature-based adventuring for the intrepid traveller and families, with an emphasis on experiencing the environment without interfering with its delicate ecosystems, you will be sure to have an amazing holiday experience. Book in now.

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Sport

TUESDAY 24 December 2019

‘Throwing things’ pays off for Abbey Peter Jones She has just won a national track and field title, and perhaps broken a New Zealand javelin record into the bargain, but Abbey Moody’s true sporting love lies elsewhere. The 15-year-old, who recently completed Year 11 at Marlborough Girls’ College, is one of those fortunate sportspeople who are able to excel at the top levels of more than one sport. In early December she travelled to Wellington for the national secondary schools track and field champs and came away with a gold medal in the junior javelin. She finished over 10 metres ahead of her nearest rival, her throw of 42.42m awaiting ratification as a new NZ record. She also came fifth in the discus, throwing a personal best of 34.11m. The javelin PB and pending record gave her a “four-peat”, having set new marks at MGC, Tasman, South Island and now national levels this season. Previously this year Abbey underlined her burgeoning potential as a water polo player, her efforts as part of the MGC team earning her most valuable player awards at both the division two senior nationals and the under-16 division two nationals. Asked to name her favoured sport, there is no hesitation. “Water polo – that’s my passion. I’ve just been doing it longer and I want to go further with it. It’s a team sport and is growing all the time. My ultimate goal is to play for New Zealand.”

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She is well on her way to that ambition, having been included in Water Polo NZ’s “Born 2004” squad which has been set up to prepare a group of athletes for the 2022 World Champs. Abbey’s interest in water polo began when she was just 10 years of age, initially playing flipperball for a Bohally team in the 2m pool. “That was such a fun team,” she recalls, “then I started playing for Marlborough Girls’ and just went on from there. “[Water polo] was just different to most sports … so much fun and you got to meet new people. Physically it’s a full-body workout and you have to be switched on mentally as well … it’s quite a strong sport, you feel strong in the water and when you shoot a goal or steal the ball it’s just an amazing feeling.” She has also set athletics goals, one of which was a strong showing at the NZ schools champs, which she can certainly tick off. Her record-breaking throw, Abbey’s first of the competition, followed some patchy training form, but she said her sport was all about what happens on the day. “With the first throw, if it flies, it flies, you’ve just got to see how it goes,” she suggested. Not a fan of running, Abbey admits she has always been keen on “throwing things”, which led her into the field side of track and field. “The first time I threw a javelin was in year nine at the MGC athletics and I think I threw it 16 metres,” she recalled. “I came fourth that day but there was another girl there -

Water polo is talented teen Abbey Moody’s preferred sport. Photo: Peter Jones. Eleri James-Sitters - who threw it about 32 metres and I was amazed with the way the javelin just flew through the air … how much power she had … it’s sort of a similar motion to throwing in water polo.” After expressing an interest on improving her javelin technique Abbey was put into contact with local coach Ian Carter who offered his help and has had a major influence on her career so far. “He drives an hour into Blenheim and an hour home for our sessions, which are usually three times a week … and it’s all voluntary. He’s so passionate about the sport.” Ian is not the only one sacrificing his time to further Abbey’s career,

with her Picton-based parents Felicity Gardiner and Richard Moody often having to get up at 5am to drive her into Blenheim for gym then pool sessions. She also mentioned the input of her water polo coach, Alistair Keay, who does a lot of research and is continually updating his knowledge of the sport. “He did a lot for the MGC team both this year and last year too.” Abbey resides in Picton, where she attended Waikawa Bay School and Queen Charlotte College, in years 7-8, but faces a change of scene in 2020, having decided to attend St Cuthbert’s College in Auckland for the final stages of her secondary education. The shift north is mainly water

polo-inspired, says Abbey, with a higher level of competition available there and the national coach, Oliver Gibb, being based at the 1300-student strong private school. Wherever the multi-talented youngster plays her sport she will be seeking that feeling that makes it all worthwhile, a feeling she knows well and wants more of. “When you just hit it right and everything feels so easy. “When you take the shot or you throw the javelin and it makes you happy and everyone else happy … it’s just the best feeling, so different to succeeding in other areas, knowing that hard work does pay off in the end. “That keeps you motivated.”

Sport

TUESDAY 24 December 2019

Tennis honours former president Peter Jones The Marlborough Tennis Association has a new life member after Brett Forgesson was honoured with the prestigious award at the latest annual meeting of the MTA. Brett was an active and innovative president of the local association from 2010 until 2018, after joining the MTA committee in 2009. In his first annual report he outlined his goals, which included making the MTA “known as the best small association in NZ Tennis within the next two or three years and looked at as a model for success by other districts”. Current MTA president Lindsay Parkinson said Brett certainly achieved that objective. “He became president after a turbulent few years for Marlborough tennis and, through an enormous amount of work and dedication, Brett ushered in a new, very successful era,” said Parkinson. “Brett was an impressive administrator who worked tirelessly for the good of tennis in Marlborough over many years. “He led a committee which established a successful relationship with a professional and accomplished coaching team meaning that both juniors and seniors were delivered a quality and consistent product.” He also introduced a number of new annual representative matches for Marlborough’s players, increased fund-raising opportunities and rebuilt the primary school competition which grew from 180 participants in 2010/11 to around 280 in 2017/18. Under his leadership, Marlborough hosted the TNZ Junior Masters finals in 2011 and both the TNZ under 16 national champs and the South Island Primary Schools tournament in 2012.

Marlborough 420 sailors Georgina Dempster and Grace Hodges in action. Photos: Supplied.

Sailing away in Picton

Brett Forgesson. “Brett embraced the new technology available and brought a new professionalism to the Marlborough tournaments,” said Parkinson. “He also increased the revenue steam from funding organisations and sponsors, raising the reserves of the association considerably, while at the same time managing to grow the programmes that the association offers. “Although Brett was ably assisted by his committee everyone will testify to how much work he put into the Association. This was most evident in 2013-2014 when the MTA operated without a paid administrator. Brett effectively did the administrator’s role while also working fulltime,” added Parkinson. Brett joins Nigel Perry, David Winstanley and Barry Stringer as life members of the MTA.

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Peter Jones Running the Marlborough/ Nelson regional sailing champs was always going to be a big ask for the small, Picton-based, Queen Charlotte Yacht Club but, as always, they delivered. On December 14-15, QCYC played host to three events the 2019 Zephyr South Island championships, the 2019 Regional Open Skiff regatta and the 2019 A class South Island championships. With 90 boats entered and 15 different types of yachts sailing in three different racing courses the pressure was firmly on the club’s volunteer base, who banded together to deliver a great event. On day one the D flag was raised a little after 10am and all fleets, besides Optimist Rainbow, Green and Open skiff headed out to the outer harbour. The A course featured Open Optimist, Starling, Splash, Laser, Zephyr, Finn, 420 and Europe class boats, who sailed in light winds (five knots northwesterly) which built throughout the day as three races were completed. The B course catered for A class, Paper Tiger, Flying Dutchman, 29er, and Weta class boats who competed in 10 knots northwesterly winds, measuring over 15 knots at the end of the day. In the superb conditions spectators were treated to the sight of A-class yachts zooming past on their foils. Meanwhile, in the inner har-

Laser sailor Jack Bennett from the host club. bour the junior sailors completed three races. On Sunday the sailors again split over three courses, the Open skiff heading out with the rest of the fleets while Optimist Rainbow and Green Fleet had the inner harbour for themselves. The first race started with a light breeze building to 15 knots which built to over 20 knots with gusts up to 30 knots. After race one for course A and race two for course B, further racing was cancelled for the day. There were several capsizes as the boats sailed back to port, but the QCYC safety craft got all sailors safely home. The Zephyr South Island title was won convincingly by Greg Wright from WBBC while the A class South Island crown was claimed by Dave Shaw from Nelson who won all his races, including lapping some of the other competitors. The Open Skiff title was taken by William Beg from NPCL, holding off QCYC sailor Fin

Stichbury, who placed second. In the Laser class Jack Bennet took victory over several other QCYC sailors while the Open Class was won by Cameron Doig in his Finn. The 420 title went to the girls’ team of Eden Amos and Skye Baker while Ben Mangin (NYC) took the Starling crown in front of QCYC member River Hopkins. In the 29er class the Nelson Team of Jones and Schneider took first place with the QCYC duo of Edwards and Overend second. The Paper Tiger class saw a clear victory by Nigel Greenbank from QCYC while, in the Flying Dutchman, David Gibb and Craig Pettie were victorious over other Nelson teams. The Optimist Open grade saw victory by Noah Malpot (NYC) with QCYC sailors Moss Hopkins and Louie Poletti hot on his heels. The Optimist inner harbour event was won by Emily Preece (Green Fleet) and Harry Pitts (Rainbow Fleet).

Sport

TUESDAY 24 December 2019

Pickleball gathering momentum Peter Jones There’s a new game in town. It’s called Pickleball and, despite its unusual name, is played by sober folk looking for a bit of exercise and a chance to test their skills. Most Thursdays at the Blenheim Indoor Centre on Batty’s Road a group of women gather to play the sport, which was invented in the United States during the summer of 1965 as a children’s backyard game. Washington State Representative Joel Pritchard and two friends returned from golf and found their families bored on a Saturday afternoon. They set out to play badminton, but no-one could find the shuttlecock so they improvised with a “wiffle ball” [a lightweight plastic ball with holes in it], lowered the badminton net and fabricated some bats from plywood in a nearby shed. Early suggestions claimed the unusual name for the new game came from the family dog “Pickles” but Pritchard’s wife said the name came from “Pickle boat”, a rowing term in which oarsman were chosen as leftovers from other crews. The dog was in fact named after the game. Played on a badminton-sized court in either singles or doubles format, the rules of a game which incorporates elements of badminton, table tennis and tennis are relatively simple. Serves are underhand and diagonal, as in table tennis, with just one attempt allowed, unless it is a let. The ball must bounce once after the serve and once when it is returned, then players can volley, but are not allowed to do so from within a seven foot, no-volley zone (referred to as the kitchen) on each side of the net. Points can only be scored by the team serving, with games played to 11 points. Pickleball was first played at the

Pickleball players, from left, Val McMurtry, Carol Stanton, Lowri McNabb and Annie Percy. Photo Peter Jones. Blenheim Indoor Centre in July this year and has quickly become a popular pastime for a group of eight players who have embraced the challenge of mastering a new game. Lowri McNabb, who is involved with many sports throughout the province said, “It’s a lot of fun. I was looking to get back into a racquet sport but I haven’t got past Pickleball yet. “It’s a very social game that anybody can come and join in, that’s part of the attraction”. Val McMurtry said she also enjoyed the social side, meeting different people, and “likes the exercise”. Carol Stanton also relished the “extra exercise” and said “it brings back some old skills that I might not have used for a very long time”. “I enjoy it very much and look

A Pickleball bat and a wiffle ball. forward to Thursdays a lot,” she added. A common theme among the players was that this is certainly not a game for the elderly and, after being run around the court relentlessly during a 10-minute

game, I can report that is very much the case. I can also report that tennis-style topspin is hard to impart onto a wiffle ball and the game, which appears relatively simple from the side line, takes some time to pick

up. However, when you do, it is a great low-impact way of sharpening your hand-eye co-ordination and raising your cardio levels. The Thursday players are keen to attract more people to the game, which can be played by those of all ages. Entry to the five courts available at the centre is $5 per player, with Thursday play running from 1pm until 3pm. New players are welcome. Courts are also available on Wednesday, both during the day and in the evening. They can be booked by phoning 035784851. Centre owner Dorothy Fitzpatrick says they intend to affiliate with Pickleball NZ, adding yet another sport to the centre’s current menu of badminton, indoor cricket, indoor netball, table tennis, tenpin bowling, indoor bowls and indoor hockey.

TUESDAY 24 December 2019

Sport

Best of the rugby best Choosing the top MBC First XV of the professional era no easy task Peter Jones Reporter

peter@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

Soon after Nelson College won the 2019 UC Championship, a group of Nelson rugby folk were inspired to put their heads together in a bid to come up with a team containing the greatest 1st XV players from that famous school, comprised of those who played in the modern era, post1995. In the spirit of the festive season, and just for the hell of it, I have endeavoured to repeat the exercise for Marlborough Boys’ College, with a little help of course from some learned rugby followers on this side of the hill.

Obviously, in such a formidable rugby school, selection was extremely difficult - especially in positions such as hooker and first five where MBC have produced a string of top players. However, with some mixing and matching position-wise, we have come up with a side that would surely prove far too good for the Nelson College outfit, MBC possessing hard-nosed physicality up front, plus superior skills and pace out the back. Having five All Blacks in the MBC mix hints at the quality of the side, and how tough it was to make the cut for the chosen XV. Leading the side will be former All Blacks skipper Anton Oliver, who has been chosen at No 8,

Anton Oliver has been named to lead the MBC First XV. the position he filled with such aplomb at MBC. To ensure the playing field is [relatively] level for a hypotheti-

cal matchup with Nelson College, former MBC head boy and World Cup referee Ben O’Keeffe would be on the whistle, with for-

mer MBC teacher Kieran Keane coaching the MBC combination. As the Nelson side’s selectors [Peter Grigg, Kahu Marfell and Andrew Goodman] suggested, “selecting a team such as this is an art, not a science”. “There are numerous players with outstanding credentials and this selection is a very subjective exercise. We apologise to anybody we have offended with non-selection but are willing to discuss them over appropriate refreshments.” The same qualifying terms apply on this side of the hill … let the debate begin. Without further ado, here are the greatest Marlborough Boys’ College and Nelson College 1st XVs of the modern era:

Marlborough Boys’ College

Nelson College

1. Atu Moli (All Black) 2. Quentin MacDonald (NZ Maori) 3. Hamish Cochrane (NZ under-20) 4. Joe Wheeler (Highlanders, NZ Maori) 5. Jamie Joseph (All Black) 6. Vernon Fredericks (Crusaders) 7. Braden Stewart (Tasman) 8. Anton Oliver (All Black) - captain 9. Toby Morland (Highlanders, Chiefs, Blues) 10. Jeremy Manning (Newcastle, Munster) 11. Hayden Pedersen (Highlanders, NZ Maori) 12. David Hill (All Black) 13. Aaron Bancroft (Highlanders) 14. Kade Poki (Crusaders, Highlanders) 15. Leon MacDonald (All Black)

1. Wyatt Crockett (All Black) 2. Ratu Vugakoto (Fiji) 3. Sak Taulafo (Samoa) 4. Quinn Strange (Crusaders, NZ Schools) 5. Kahu Marfell (NZ U19) 6. Anton Segner (NZ Schools) 7. Tevita Koloamatangi (Tonga) 8. Ita Vaea (Brumbies) 9. Mitch Drummond (All Black) 10. Mitch Hunt (Crusaders) 11. Leicester Fainga’anuku (Crusaders, NZ Schools) 12. David Havili (All Black) 13. Tom Marshall (Crusaders, Chiefs,) 14. James Lowe (NZ Maori) 15. James Marshall (NZ Sevens)

Leon MacDonald, left, slots in at fullback for MBC while Joe Wheeler, below, has been chosen at lock. Photos: Shuttersport.

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$21 +gst pw*

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•• Winter Lawn &Garden Garden tidy up

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• End Lease • End of• of Lease End of Lease tidy upup tidy up tidy

Find out more or visit: Find out call more call or visit: Find out more call or visit:

0800 0800 803 803 200 200 0800 803 200

Ph: 021 669 666 Office: 573 7944

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www.greenacres.co.nz www.greenacres.co.nz 0800 0800 803 803 200200

www.greenacres.co.nz 0800 803 200

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PEST CONTROL

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abernethypestcontrol.co.nz

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Blenheim & Picton Blenheim 578 3366, blenheim@summit.co.nz, 30 Alfred Street, Blenheim Picton 573 6166, picton@summit.co.nz, 56 High Street, Picton