Marlborough Magazine - October 2021

OCTOBER 2021

QUEEN of

DRAMA On the Fly Finding

COREY

Fishing for trophy trout

A young leader’s weight loss battle

PLUS: Andre’s awesome foursome | At Home | Woman of Substance

AUGUST 2021

Contents Features 7–9

STAYING FOR LOVE How one woman’s visit to NZ changed her life

10–13

FINDING COREY Making the big decision to lose weight

14–15

A WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE Responding to life’s challenges with a smile

7–9

24–25 ANDRES AWESOME FOURSOME

A pledge to win in

loving memory

Regular 26

What’s Hot

29

On The Street

30-31

Beauty

49

What’s On

50

Social Page

53

Recipe

10–13

19–21

3

Editor’s Note

He l l o Wow, there are some truly inspiring people living in this wonderful region we call home and this month we have a chat with some of the best. Our cover girl Rose Platenkamp is making quite the impression on the Marlborough theatre scene, not just in terms of her own undoubtable talent but in encouraging our young people to reach for the stars, instilling both confidence and know how and all in her second language too.

Impressive.

Another inspirational Marlburian who has shared their story this month is Corey Hebberd. The young general manager

has lost 65kg so far and is a wonderful example of the tenacity of the human spirit, even when the journey he faced seemed overwhelming. Let’s face it, we can all relate at some level, we’ve all made bad food choices at times, but would we all be brave enough to make such a life-altering change?

There are some wonderful people in this month’s magazine and we hope you enjoy reading their stories as much as we enjoyed meeting them. Thanks for chatting with us guys, we are privileged to help share your successes.

Summa

EDITOR Summa Donald summa@marlboroughmedia.co.nz CONTENT EDITOR Paula Hulburt DESIGN Patrick Connor, Matt Brown and Toni Woolf CONTRIBUTORS Paula Hulburt, Peter Jones, David James, Tracy Neal and Chris Valli.

ADVERTISING Rosa Tate rosa@marlboroughmedia.co.nz Gemma Bartlett gemma@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

Cover: Staying for love. Page 7.

Photo: David James.

DISTRIBUTION Phil Brown, Paula Brown, Wendy Aberthenthy PUBLISHER Marlborough Media, 52 Scott St, Blenheim www.topsouthmedia.co.nz

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October 2021

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5

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October 2021

Staying for love It was one of the last promises she made her family as she hugged them goodbye, to have fun in New Zealand but not to fall in love.

Here she tells Chris Valli how Marlborough found a place in her heart and how she’s using her drama talents to help nurture Marlborough’s next generation of theatrical talent.

David James

P

ressing down hard on the suitcase, Rose blew a strand of rogue blonde hair from her face as she finally zipped it shut with a sigh of relief.

The bulging case sat on her bed in the Netherlands, its hard case shell protecting her belongings, clothes, shoes and suntan cream, photos of her family tucked carefully inside.

Glancing up at the heavy grey sky, Rose shivered in anticipation. In just over 24 hours she would leave the cold of the Netherlands for New Zealand and a year’s adventure.

Eight years later, it is a clear blue sky that sits above but a cold wind keeps the performing arts teacher inside her Blenheim home but her infectious smile is still in place as she explains how the urge to travel saw her leave home in 2013.

“Initially the plan was to ‘pop over’ for just a year and return.

My family joked with me before I left to do my travelling to have fun in New Zealand but promise them you won't fall in love. My reply was, sure, I’m not that type of girl, I’ll be sweet!

But I did fall in love with a guy and here I am.”

Rose, 33, arrived in Blenheim in 2015 after her partner Luke was working here. Immigration followed thereafter. She admits she gets attached to people and she likes to create a bond and stay in one place.

Discovering Marlborough had its own flourishing arts scene was the icing on the cake for the qualified drama teacher who founded her own performing arts school StageLab in Blenheim in 2019.

7

I make sure the kids are laughing a lot. Making mistakes and experimenting is way more important than it must look good.

“I saw Mamma Mia (2016) and I was like wow, how awesome, there’s like a real theatre scene in this place - I thought I would've had to move to Wellington or to Dunedin to teach.”

Encouraging young talent is so important to her and she has quickly found her place encouraging children of all ages to believe in their abilities, to believe in themselves.

“When I go to the theatre, that is something I like to see and to be touched by a performance through an actor’s vulnerability is wonderful. I love that.

She admits when she was young, she was very modest and didn’t want to capture too much attention. However, her teacher was always encouraging and pushed her in a guidance sort of way.

“When I see kids coming into the (StageLab) studio and they feel like, “I don't know about this” or lack confidence. Yet when you give them a role and see them grow and become comfortable is awesome.

“I love that I get this opportunity to do that to the kids I teach now. I say to them now, it’s not about you, it's about the character.”

“The beauty of theatre is that they (children or adults) are not themselves. The need to visualise who the potential character is and or could be is a magic process.”

The origins behind the name Stage Lab came about from her friend in The Netherlands. She says she wanted the name ‘lab’ for her brand and business.

In recent years Rose has acted in shows such as Avenue Q, sung in Stars in their Eyes (as Adele) and has directed comedy shows at the Boathouse Theatre. It’s My Party and I’ll Die if I Want to (2019) and Boeing Boeing (2020). She admits the theatre is a wonderful medium where creativity takes over and the connection of human interaction to the fore.

“I liked the idea of maybe a musical lab which was the initial thought. The concept or idea of a lab is that it evolves, it’s not perfect, that you try things out and you're allowed to make mistakes.”

A graduate from the prestigious School of Arts in The Netherlands, Rose has worked in a variety of sectors. During her time developing role-playing scenarios with the emergency services, Rose was continually being arrested, she jokes.

“They got to practice on me which was great. On Monday’s I would get arrested at least 10 times and on other days I would pretend to be running out of a war zone.

“We often worked with psychologists and discussed afterwards how it went. Was it authentic, realistic? Was it a reflection on what actually happens in a real-life scenario?

She says working with the police and the army helped develop her own mental strength skills as an actor.

“I loved my job but the urge to travel took over in 2013.”

Rose admits she had no plans to stay, she was searching for new experiences for fun and new friends. Now the exuberant blonde reveals she found so much more – a new home and a place in Marlborough’s drama scene.

8

October 2021

Rose describes her Performing Arts teaching style as ‘fun and safe.’

“I make sure the kids are laughing a lot. Making mistakes and experimenting is way more important than it must look good.

It will look good and become better once it evolves. If they can’t explore and try things out it becomes dull. Unpack what kids are good at and what they can personally bring. If kids feel like they would like to be part of that, they will come.”

In June this year, Rose Directed Penny’s Dragon at the Boathouse Theatre to great acclaim. The show is about a girl called Penny who lives in a fictional town called ‘Boring’ and one day hears about finding a dragon.

Rose wrote the script with her friend in The Netherlands and the show was a huge success and ‘really took off’. Performing the show and travelling throughout her homeland opened her up to the opportunity that the show presented. She then translated the Dutch version to English to accommodate a cast of 35 - 40 children in Blenheim.

Rose acknowledges that two Blenheim women have had a significant influence and impact on her own personal and

Rose Platenkamp has been sharing her passion for performance with young actors through Stagelab. Photo: David James

professional development.

One is Robyn Simmons from Marlborough Academy of Dance who she says is a constant support and friend and encouraged her to pursue StageLab. The other is local director Pam Logan, who she describes as ‘awesome’ and one who is ‘always open to new ideas.’

“We can talk for hours about a play and discuss it in detail.

The way she directs people is so aligned with how I like to work. She is good at acknowledging the actor. To trust themselves and their influences, to give them confidence.

“It’s not what is said in the script but the reason, the motivation, let the actor think about the movement, the purpose - the why behind it all?”

What is she most proud of?

“Working with a wide variety of people in this job is a privilege. People are genuine - that is the most important thing, whether you are working with adults or children.

“The beauty of theatre - you have to be honest how you feel especially when working alongside a group and the dynamic it brings when it brings ‘genuineness’ out of people- that is something that makes me very proud.”

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All About You Lingerie I

am constantly surprised when people tell me they never knew of my store or they didn’t know about the products and services I provide.

This lingerie store has been part of Marlborough for almost 30 years and I have had the pleasure of working in it most of that time. It has had several different names, locations and owners and I have worked for each of them and it was a pleasure to do so. But it was a dream come true for me when I became the owner.

I absolutely love what I do, this business is my passion and I hope I project that feeling to all my customers. I take great pride in offering a bespoke service.

Over the last couple of years there have been challenges and changes in all our lives and who would of ever foreseen a pandemic on such a scale. It has affected everyone in some way. I am probably one of the lucky ones, I am still here and so is my business in no small part due to a wonderful landlord who was extremely supportive and I will be forever grateful.

My customers have been and still are incredible, the support I have had from them has been amazing and I thank you all from the bottom of my heart.

My primary service is bra fitting. I cannot emphasise enough just how extremely important this is. You wouldn’t squeeze your foot into a size 6 shoe if you were a 7 or vice-versa. Also wearing the wrong size bra can cause multiple problems. I have been trained by various bra companies and had many years experience. I am qualified to fit bras for everyone, from young ladies needing their first bra through to visiting rest homes if required. I am also happy to do home visits if for whatever reason they are unable to come to me.

I am a qualified prothesis fitter, helping clients with the process of finding the correct size prothesis following a mastectomy. I am also a registered Ministry of Health provider, so I can help clients with the prothesis and bra subsidy they are entitled to following a surgery. To me, being able to offer this mastectomy service is the most important part of what I do. I am completely humbled by the fact these ladies come to me and trust me to help them through one of the most vulnerable periods of their life. It is a privilege to be able to help them.

10

October 2021

Owner of All About You Lingerie Erica Sprosen.

My Lingerie range also includes Maternity Bras – a small range at present but I am extending the very popular Hot Milk maternity range which is gorgeous.

Shapewear is also available – if you have ever watched Gok Wan you will know all about what that can do for you.

My beautiful Special Occasion range offers chemise’s, robes, bodysuits, bra’s and briefs in the most luxurious silks, satins and lace. In fact why should these be just for special occasions, why not all the time. We know how great we feel when we are wearing something absolutely gorgeous.

The beautiful Femme de la Mer swimwear range has just arrived instore it is stunning and also features a mastectomy range.

If I don’t have instore what you require please ask, just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean I can’t get it. I am always happy to help.

I hope to be living the dream for a good while yet and can’t wait to see you instore soon

The future is looking brighter for Corey Hebberd.

Finding Corey Six months ago, the 27-year-old general manager of Rangitāne o Wairau, had gastric bypass surgery. Now more than 65kg lighter, Corey Hebberd talks to Paula Hulburt about his second chance at life.

David James

L

ight sparked off the sleek stem as laughter and good wishes flowed. Holding his glass aloft, Corey grinned as he accepted the birthday greetings of his friends and family. It was his 27th birthday and he had plenty to smile about.

The general manager of Rangitāne o Wairau, one of Marlborough’s oldest and most eminent iwi, was used to putting on a brave face and smiling through his selfconsciousness. Being able to enjoy his birthday, relax and not fear getting his photo taken was a very special first.

“I hated getting my picture taken or seeing myself in the mirror. I didn’t really realise just how much until now,” he explains. His face falls as thoughts settle briefly on more challenging times before a smile takes over once again.

“My tolerance [to alcohol] is nothing now,” he laughs. “I used to be able to drink a whole bottle over a night, but I barely managed a couple of glasses before I went to bed.”

He pauses for a moment to take a sip from the latte in front of him, the cup chinking back down onto the saucer with the smallest sound.

All around us in a central Blenheim café, people are eating and drinking. Sugar dusted delights and chocolatey treats abound, and the cabinet is full of tempting lunch time goodies. Corey smiles as he tells me these days he must choose if he eats or drinks. After his surgery, doing both at the same time is just not an option anymore.

But it is a choice he is happy to live with.

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SUPPLIED Corey, pictured both before and after gastric bypass surgery, says the procedure has helped prolong his life.

I was at Dreamworld and couldn’t get the belt on for one of the rides, and that was an ‘oh my God’ moment.

“I have to think about every drink, every meal. A coffee will sometimes fill me up and then other times I get to lunchtime and only then feel hungry.”

Almost eight months ago, Corey made not just a life changing decision but what he believes was a life saving change. Incongruously, this new chapter began with eight weeks of Optifast diet drinks.

“I’ve not drunk one since,” he grimaces. “The idea is not to lose weight before surgery but to shrink up your liver. It gives the surgeon better access to your stomach, making it easier and safer.”

Corey clearly recalls being wheeled down to surgery.

His mum, dad and nana supported him, only bidding their goodbyes just before surgery at Corey’s insistence.

The fluorescent lights shifted overhead, caught his eye briefly as the hospital bed was pushed towards theatre. A wonky wheel slowed process and the bed veered off course slightly before being quickly righted.

Smiling faces peered down at him reassuringly as he journeyed from his room at St George’s Hospital in Christchurch to theatre. Corey explains how it was a journey which began five years earlier; the juncture when he first thought about the possibility of bypass surgery.

As the moment arrived, he looked forward, ready to leave his old self behind and embrace a new life.

“By this stage I was totally ready for it.

“It was the culmination of things, I wanted to walk long distances again and not take the car to every appointment, I wanted to sit on the floor and play with my niece.

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October 2021

“I was at Dreamworld and couldn’t get the belt on for one of the rides, and that was an ‘oh my God’ moment. I snored terribly, probably had sleep apnea, my asthma was quite bad, I had flare ups of gout and I had higher blood pressure.

“My uncle died young in the USA on Christmas Day 2006 and it’s no secret that heart issues run in my family. For a while I wondered if I was going to be one of those people who died young but there’s so much I still want to do.”

As a descendant of Manaia MacDonald (Nugget), Corey says he is very conscious of the mantle of responsibility he now holds.

Very close to his parents and grandparents, the former Grovetown School pupil began to worry he would not live long enough to make any meaningful contribution to his family, to his iwi and to his community.

“My great grandfather helped to set up the rūnanga and I want to help carry it forward, it really is a privilege. My work really is so intertwined with my whānau so I can’t switch off, I can’t just leave it at the office door.

“Blood, sweat and tears have gone into getting Rangitāne to where it is today - it isn’t a responsibility that I carry lightly.”

His beloved nana had successful gastric sleeve surgery and Corey says he knew what to expect. “My nana’s only regret was not getting it sooner. Why would I wait 20 years when I knew I was ready?”

The mini-gastric bypass procedure Corey chose is restrictive and malabsorptive. The procedure reduces the stomach size and restricts the amount you can eat and the absorption of food by bypassing up to 6 feet of intestines.

SUPPLIED Corey Hebberd has recently been made permanent general manager of Rangitāne o Wairau.

Corey did not always have issues with his weight. Up until he began at Bohally Intermediate School, the boy who looked back at him from the mirror was smiley and pleased with life.

For the rest of his life, Corey will need to take calcium and multivitamins to ensure he gets the nutrition he needs. He looks and feels happy and well. But getting to this point has cost the talented young man a lot, both financially and emotionally.

“This was not an easy fix,” he ruminates as he picks up the small silver coloured teaspoon on his saucer, twirls it for a couple of seconds and puts it back down.

With an overall financial commitment of almost $30,000, Corey used much of his house deposit savings and got some help from his family.

‘There’s no point in having a house if I’m not around to enjoy it,” he laments, still concerned that people may judge him harshly for having taken the surgery route.

He had a close group of friends, lived in a tight knit, supportive community and little clouded his days except homework and bed times.

If this doesn’t work for me, there’s nothing else, this is my second chance and I won’t let it pass me by.

“Even in my own family, not everyone was on board [with the surgery] to start with. Weight loss in general isn’t easy but this [surgery] is another tool I can use.

Corey Hebberd

“I went to Bohally and got a bit more independence. I got the bus to and from school and got a job at the old Junction Hotel doing dishes. My first job put money in my pocket. Looking back, I made a lot of bad decisions with that but I enjoyed food and even now I still get the occasional desire to sink my teeth into a pie.

“I do still get nervous around what I eat. We have an air fryer in the office and the old Corey would have been really dangerous with that.

Now, I take one or two bites of chicken and I’m completely full.”

Corey shared his surgery plans with his family and work colleagues, all of whom have been very supportive, he says.

“I have a better relationship with food now, it’s changing and I don’t think I’ve taken an easy road, even though I suspect that some people may think I have.

“I had to tell them”, he jokes, why else would I have been drinking all that Optifast.”

“I’ve learnt so much, how I put up a wall and pretended it wasn’t really there, how I learnt not to draw attention to myself.

Alongside his new wardrobe one he has to change every few weeks, is a new outlook on life. Corey’s goal now is to weigh double digits- a goal he has almost achieved.

“Things do feel easier. People thought I was a confident person but underneath I wasn’t really - but I am starting to feel better about myself.”

“That really would be a dream come true.

“If this doesn’t work for me, there’s nothing else, this is my second chance and I won’t let it pass me by.”

13

A woman of substance Chloe Ranford/LDR

“I

f you sell your house, and I sell my boat, we could buy the leasehold on Furneaux Lodge,” Ros Benson’s partner said, after spotting a notice in the paper. The year was 1995.

“In a deserted place like that ... a rule for one is a rule for all.

You can't deviate from it because otherwise it doesn’t work.

Ros was a receptionist-turned-firearms officer moonlighting two nights a week at the Kāpiti Boating Club as a barmaid, trying to earn a little more for her son.

“We had a rule that you couldn’t bring boots inside Furneaux Lodge. You had to take them off and add them to the row, outside. There was a couple who used to come to the lodge with their dog. Its name was Boots, so it had to sit outside.”

She’d only been to the century-old lodge in the Marlborough Sounds once before, during a quick weekend trip with friends.

Benson spent the sail back clinging to a rope in the dead of night after the motorboat she was in hit a storm.

Her life took a spin in the middle of 1997, when a “very, very wealthy fisherman” sailed into Endeavour Inlet, anchored and walked up to the bar. The lodge’s freehold was on the market, and he said he wanted it.

But she was the “adventurous sort”, so it was no wonder she turned to her partner – when he suggested buying Furneaux – and said, “Alright then”.

“We couldn't fight him because he was a millionaire. We were nobodies. We just couldn't afford to buy the freehold,” she explains.

So began Ros’s life in Marlborough which, over three decades, saw her leapfrog from the owner of an isolated lodge to a water taxi revolutionary, then from a winter ball planner to an emergency operations centre trustee.

Just five months after Ros and her partner left lodge life behind them, Furneau hit headlines across the globe as the place Ben Smart and Olivia Hope spent New Year’s Eve before vanishing.

Her partner at the time was in the Coastguard and was former bodyguard for New Zealand Prime Minister Robert Muldoon.

The couple cashed in their home and boat, and moved to the-then “very, very run down” lodge.

They gave it a makeover, got to grips with running things, and toughened it out with time. Ros’s earliest hours were spent preparing the restaurant for its morning rush of boaties. Then, she would work through to either 11pm or 1am (switching with her partner every night), so customers saw a face they knew. Looking back, she joked she was “probably the grumpiest owner of Furneaux Lodge ever”.

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October 2021

Ros and her partner retreated to Picton where a water taxi business seemed a natural step forward.

It was christened ‘West Bay Water Transport’ as a nod to Endeavour Inlet, which was called West Bay in the days of Captain James Cook, but renamed several decades later.

Their first boat was a Naiad – a brand of workhorse favoured

by Coastguard crews around New Zealand because they could travel quickly, even in rough weather.

“Her name was West Bay. She had two outboard motors on the back of her and everyone said, ‘That’s not going to go very fast.’ But we put her in the water, and she went vroom.”

OPPOSITE PAGE: Picton woman Ros Benson retired from the Picton Emergency Operations Centre Trust in August, 16 years after helping to set it up.

Photo: Scott Hammond/Stuff/Supplied RIGHT ABOVE: Ros shows pictures of STB, the second boat in the West Bay Water Transport fleet.

Photo: Scott Hammond/Stuff/Supplied RIGHT: The Ogilvie-Lee Emergency Operations Centre marries together Marlborough Coastguard and St John in one central location in Picton.

Photo: Scott Hammond/Stuff

She travelled three times faster than the boats used by West Bay Water Transport’s three competitors, cutting the once lengthy sail between Picton and Torea Bay to 15 minutes.

“We revolutionised water taxis in Picton, basically, because no-one travelled at those speeds before then,” Ros explains.

One boat quickly became two. But, before the business could become too big for its boots, it was bought out by a rival.

West Bay was sent up north to Whakaari/White Island while the business’s second boat, STB, went to Queenstown.

Ros can now only guess as to what happened to West Bay (“she probably wouldn’t have been used to rescue people during the White Island eruption”) but knew STB had been painted “bright orange” and put to work as a tour boat. The boat was renamed Tina after Tina Turner, singer of the pop hit Simply The Best, from which STB was abbreviated.

Another change beckoned and Ros took up the post of barmaid at the Toot N Whistle (later Cockles Kitchen And Bar, which closed) and her friends often came to visit. She was talking to a bigger than usual group of them one night when someone said residents had little to do during the quieter winter months.

“So I said, ‘Why don't we have a winter ball?’” laughs Ros. She already knew where to host it – in the “big, huge room” on the top floor of the Picton Yacht Club Hotel, overlooking the Marlborough Sounds. Her friend, the hotel owner, agreed and on June 19, 2004, the town had its first ‘Yuletide Ball’.

A year later, it had its second, this time “fancy dress”.

By then its organisers – Ros included – had raised several thousand dollars and were unsure how to use it for the best.

They noticed the town’s only ambulance never left a storage shed on Market St because its battery was often flat from disuse. Meanwhile, the Coastguard had been given two years to leave the portable building it used as headquarters.

The two components snapped together into an idea and the idea to build a joint area for Coastguard Marlborough and St John was born: The Picton Emergency Operations Centre Trust. Ros was sworn in as secretary.

Five years later, at the opening of the Ogilvie-Lee Emergency Operations Centre’s opening, she would proudly watch the dream become a reality. She stayed on the trust for another decade – through a separation, two house moves, and her retirement from the workforce – before finally hanging up her hat in late August this year.

“I’ve always strived to be charitable and to do things to the best of my ability,” she said, tracing the cause back to her upbringing in Sussex, a large county in south-east England.

Her mother, a pub owner, was a decorated captain in the Girl Guides, which encouraged young women to better the world.

“Charitableness was just something I grew up with,” says Ros who followed in her mother’s footsteps and, in time, garnered her own collection of badges: first Brownie, then Guide, First Class Guide and finally Guide Captain. She stuck the badges on a hat, alongside her other accomplishments.

Her favourite one? A small silver medal, flecked with age.

“I got it coming second running 100 yards against Gordon Perry's wife. He was the second man to run the ‘four-minute mile’ ... I was probably about 14-years-old, and she was 18.”

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16

BARRY BECK

Fishing a fine line The season of trout is upon us. For those puzzled by the quiet mysteries of fly fishing, we aim to solve at least some of them. Tracy Neal reports.

I

t happens each October.

Usually it rains, muddying rivers and the hopes of hundreds who have been waiting months to cast a line.

The official opening of the seven-month trout fishing season is the time for eager anglers to haul on bib pants and waders and spend weekends stalking their favourite rivers.

It’s often a solitary time for partners whose preference is not to spend hours on a riverbank, swatting sandflies and drinking coffee from a thermos.

But as the old saying goes, if you can’t beat ‘em, then join ‘em.

As it turns out, the top of the south hosts some of the world’s best waterways for catching trout.

It’s one reason Felix Borenstein moved here from Australia to set up what has become a five-star luxury fishing lodge.

“After fishing around a lot of New Zealand, it became obvious to me that the Murchison/Nelson Lakes region of the South Island has the best sighted brown trout river fishery in the world.”

The Owen River Lodge near Murchison had, until early last

year, focused largely on the international visitor market.

Historically, 96 per cent of guests annually were from the US, Australia and the UK, with “four or five” bookings from New Zealanders.

That all changed suddenly when the borders closed due to Covid. The overseas anglers were gone.

“We tried to pivot as a country luxury lodge which by and large was a failure – so we stuck with what we do best.”

Luckily, Kiwis were suddenly keen to go fishing. Felix says 65 bookings from New Zealanders halted the downward revenue spiral, assisted by lowered rates to suit the Kiwi market.

“It blew me away. I was incredibly grateful, and still am, for the number of Kiwis who decided to come here and stay at the lodge.”

Felix says it also helped to keep his staff employed, to whom he felt obliged.

“They offered to take a pay cut, but I said ‘no’. My head chef has been with me 10 years and I’ve made good money in that time, so it wasn’t fair to have them take a hit because of what

17

OWEN RIVER LODGE

Kylie Sargeant with a wild brown trout on the Owen River.

Fewer people had a positive spin-off on the river.

and how to tie (fishing) flies on his camp table, and he showed them how to cast.”

“Our guides saw far less anglers on the river, making the fish a little easier to catch.”

Kylie learned then that casting was just as much an art form as an outdoor activity.

Helping to run the business is Felix’s partner Kylie Sargeant.

The avid fly fisher is certified by the International Federation of Fly Fishers, making her New Zealand’s only female certified fly-casting instructor.

“It’s what led me to study to become a casting instructor.”

was going on beyond their control.

She says fly fishing is most certainly something more women should be encouraged to do.

“It’s an incredibly restorative practise – I’m not sure men like to share that too much; the secrets of how restorative fly fishing can be. It takes you to some divine places and it provides an opportunity to just be still.

“As women we’re usually pretty awful at that, but to take time out, to be in solitude somewhere stunningly beautiful, be still and present in the moment, is what fly fishing is all about.”

The former special needs teacher became hooked on fly fishing after a camping holiday with her children in her native Australia.

“It became something to do on school holidays. It began with me dropping a handline over a footbridge at the beach. Then we started going to some really nice quiet places and fishing became a side activity to keep the kids entertained.”

Kylie says on one trip they were camped beside a fly fisherman.

“This gentleman got the kids really excited about insects,

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October 2021

Kylie says the advantage New Zealand has over other top fishing destinations is that it’s safe.

“There are no snakes, there are no bears – the bush is quite benign in terms of things that can kill you…well, yes, the sandflies can drive you crazy, but they won’t kill you.”

Fish & Game New Zealand manages, maintains and enhances sports fish and game birds, and their habitats. It is funded through the sale of fishing and hunting licences, which are required by anyone wanting to go fresh-water fishing or game bird hunting.

Last season, Kiwis stuck at home by Covid prompted a nine per cent increase in domestic licence sales - the highest in 20 years.

Fish & Game spokesperson Richard Cosgrove says the Nelson Marlborough region has some acclaimed trout fisheries. It hosts four designated backcountry fisheries (the Travers, Goulter, Upper Wairau and Upper Matakitaki) but has loads of places close to Nelson and Blenheim for anglers of all skill levels to go and catch a fish for the plate.

“There's a saying in Fish & Game that every bridge you cross is a fishing opportunity, and the fisheries close to Nelson certainly fit that category.”

To take time out, to be in solitude somewhere stunningly beautiful, be still and present in the moment, is what fly fishing is all about.

Kylie Sargeant

OWEN RIVER LODGE

Fishers either catch and release their trout or save their prize for eating, but catch limits do apply.

Richard says trout are highly regarded as a delicacy. Fish & Game has partnered with celebrity chef Angello Georgalli (host of the television show The Game Chef and author of associated cookbooks) to create the Fish & Game Cookbook, set to go on sale next April.

Fly fishing on the Wairau River.

The New Zealand Fish & Game Council says: •

Last season saw a nine per cent increase in domestic licence sales.

•

Non-resident (overseas) anglers normally make up 10 to 15 per cent of licence sales.

•

The Nelson region is an international trout fishing destination because of its large number of acclaimed wilderness rivers. It also has an array of top-rated lowland rivers offering many public access points.

•

The Motueka, Wairau and Pelorus rivers are close to residential areas and support high numbers of trout.

•

Learn to be an angler at a “stepping-stone fishery” such as an enclosed waterway like Lake Argyle – a small hydro lake in Marlborough. They are easy to access and are regularly stocked with rainbow trout.

The resident angler base has grown in recent years because of these fisheries.

It will feature all the species that Fish & Game manage, including brown and rainbow trout.

Felix says they have planned for the coming season with a focus once more on Kiwis.

“I have cancelled every single booking I had from overseas for all of January 2022 and moved them to January 2023.

Everyone’s been supportive and understands.”

He says some Kiwis who stayed at the lodge last year had booked to return this season.

“There is certainly a market there from New Zealanders who want to spoil themselves.”

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October 2021

Forestry firm awarded for putting the heat on emissions A Marlborough sawmill has received kudos from the Government for its trailblazing efforts to cut emissions.

By Tracy Neal

N

estled in a valley surrounded by green topped hills and rows of vines, sits an unlikely hero. At first glance, there is nothing of note that sets Kaituna Sawmill apart but beneath the green corrugated roofs something special is happening.

The thriving Marlborough business just west of the Wairau Bridge on State Highway 6, is being hailed for finding a workable alternative to burning fossil fuels in a major part of its operation.

So impressive is its solution to burning biomass efficiently for its timber drying process that the mill recently won the forestry category award in the Cawthron Marlborough Environment Awards.

Burning waste oil is now a thing of the past as biomass takes over, providing a renewable energy source, such as such as wood, that creates electricity and heat when burned. While it is carbon neutral, drawbacks so far have included that it is generally less efficient than fossil fuels.

The company was previously spending more than half a million dollars a year burning waste oil to run the boiler that dried timber products. The new boiler system burns wet sawdust to generate the energy needed for drying timber.

Climate Change Minister James Shaw who attended a field day on site prior to lockdown, says the sawmill’s achievement had given him hope for the future.

“It’s companies like this that are using a natural wood product to make things we need, like timber for houses.

“They have also dramatically reduced their emissions using new technologies and have opportunities to do more in the future.”

The sawmill, which is owned by trans-Tasman business OneFortyOne, was also acknowledged for halving its carbon emissions and finding markets for its waste products including bark, sawdust and pine chips.

OneFortyOne has forests and mills in Australia and New Zealand and bought the Kaituna Sawmill and surrounding forests in 2018.

The sawmill supplies radiata pine products to Australia, Europe, Asia and the local New Zealand market.

James Shaw says if it was possible to transfer Kaituna’s leadership to other industries, then the country would be a long way down the path towards emissions reduction.

“We know where we want to be and where we are now, but we can’t quite figure out how to get between the two. The team at Kaituna Sawmill shows us a pathway.”

OneFortyOne Environmental Planner Kristie Paki Paki says the journey of emissions measurement began 10 years ago, with the aim of improving environmental performance.

“As a company we’re keen to share our experience to help others on their road to reducing their carbon footprint.”

OneFortyOne’s New Zealand forests cover around 80,000 hectares. It also helps to protect more than 9000 hectares of conservation land, while helping to take care of endangered species, including the kea. The forestry company says its workforce protects and monitors the health of these birds in conjunction with the Kea Conservation Trust.

The Cawthron Marlborough Environment Awards are held every two years to showcase businesses and community projects which have a focus on environmental protection.

The awards are supported by the Cawthron Institute, Marlborough District Council, Department of Conservation, and the Marlborough Forest Industry Association.

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Time - it’s a wonderful commodity In a world of zoom calls, social media and paying rates, Bikes and Scooters Marlborough is setting the standard when it comes to providing customers with quality time and know-how on ‘anything Bikes and Scooters’.

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he business opened its doors in December 2020 and after nine months in the Redwood hub , co-owners Chris Lang and Lisa Erikson are loving the community and location of the business. She says, one of their priorities is to give customers their time and expertise while implementing their wide range of product knowledge.

“Definitely our access to a multitude of brands. This not only applies to all bikes from kids bikes to full suspension E Bikes but accessories as well. We are 100% independent and not aligned to any one brand or supplier meaning we are autonomous in our decision making on what we stock and how we price it.

“Giving our time to ensure that everyone we connect with in our business feels at ease, valued and well informed,” says Lisa.

“We put awesome package deals together for our customers on the spot just based on having a chat with them and finding a solution for their needs!”

“We have fantastic support from our Redwoodtown business neighbours and the feedback from the community has been incredibly humbling. Everyone who comes into the shop says it has great energy. The massive car park full of free parks is a bonus for customers too.”

Stocking a multitude of brands across numerous suppliers is Bikes and Scooters local, point of difference. So what sets them apart?

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October 2021

Lisa says ‘cross terrain’ E bikes are their ‘best seller’ and leading the way thanks to Marlborough’s natural environment and terrain.

“Marlborough is the perfect playground for this genre of E Bike. They are perfect for those who want to get out on the road, riverbank and the lower farm park but aren’t fussed on needing the capacity to enter the mountain bike trails.

We put awesome package deals together for our customers on the spot just based on having a chat with them and finding a solution for their needs!

Mechanic Merrick Thompson enjoys helping keep people on the road. Photo: Chris Valli.

Lisa Erikson

In a world under Covid and the ever-evolving nature of operating a business under various alert levels, according to Lisa, one of the positives has been the rejuvenation in people wanting to focus on their mental and personal health through purchasing and riding bikes.

“Covid has resulted in a resurgence in the bike industry globally, so we are grateful to be involved in an industry to have this fortunate outcome in these times,” says Lisa. “Like every other small business, it is certainly a challenging time.

However, it is important to us to always look at the bigger picture and that definitely brings everything into perspective.”

Lisa says the idea and initial business model for Bikes and Scooters was fairly straight forward.

“The plan and model was pretty simple. Just a home workshop (for Chris) to tinker in and take time out from 20 years in IT. Fixing bikes, scooters and mobility scooters was the intent and that is reflected in the name. Lisa and Chris are rightly proud of the branding done for them by Steph at Rubyfive Design and the logo design by Alex at Lloyd Creative which evolved with the use of the tagline “your local bike shop”’ “All the branding is now cemented and in huge signage including an LED lightbox, so it’s here to stay!”

For Lisa and Chris, it has been full circle for the Marlborough natives who have bought a smorgasbord of transferable life skills to the business.

Chris grew up in Marlborough and had multisport ‘in his veins’.

Chris was initially recruited to the RNZAF as an avionics mechanic which saw deployment in Bougainville (1000km’s east of Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea). He then embarked on a career in IT based in Auckland. It is Chris’ passion for anything to do with bikes that Lisa says, drives the business.

Meanwhile Lisa returned to Marlborough in 2013 after the Christchurch earthquakes. Her passion for music and the arts found opportunities within the local arts scene. Lisa says, bikes as a vocation was never on the radar and or ‘to do list’.

“Did bikes ever feature? No, I have always been fit and active.

I LOVE my Cannondale E Bike because now I can finally keep up with Chris.”

Completing the Marlborough flavour in the business and workshop is Merrick Thompson. A key, invaluable member, who Lisa says is a ‘bit of a superstar’.

“He has two decades of experience as a mechanic and has a fabulous reputation across the region as being highly skilled, reliable and honest. We are so lucky to have him!”

Merrick, a passionate rider himself, has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to componentry and the ‘nitty gritty’ of how bikes work. And in a nutshell, that sums up the Bikes and Scooters mantra.

Offering a classic Kiwi approach to what they do - keeping it simple with great, friendly and efficient service.

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Andre’s awesome foursome do it for ‘the big fella’

By Peter Jones

I

f a province ever needed a ray of sunshine to lighten sagging post-Christmas spirits, it was Marlborough in early January, 1998.

A feeling of gloom had pervaded the region after the disappearance of local youngsters Ben Smart and Olivia Hope from Furneaux Lodge on New Year’s Eve. Although the search for the missing couple continued to dominate headlines then, and for years to come, the efforts of a group of Marlborough sportsmen provided a timely feel-good story during the early stages of the wide-ranging investigation.

Utilising an unstoppable mix of skill, determination and emotional motivation, lawn bowlers Andre Smith (skip) and Bob Dowling, from the tiny Havelock club, Lloyd Gallop from Blenheim and Renwick’s Kevin Greenwood joined forces to claim the national fours title in Wellington.

Their fairy tale run to the nation’s blue riband bowling title began eight months earlier, at the funeral of Lloyd’s older brother Kevin.

‘The big fella’ as Kevin was affectionately known, was a national singles finalist in 1993, and had skipped a team, including Smith, to a national fours semi-final in 1994. His death, due to cancer, at just 46 was a huge shock, not only to his brother and extended family, but to all in the tight-knit Marlborough bowls fraternity.

Kevin had been their clubmate, colleague in various rep teams and partner pairs and fours at national championships - but more than anything he had been their mate.

At his send-off, brother Lloyd, Andre, Bob and fellow bowler Mike Mehlhopt decided to put a team together to honour Kevin at the forthcoming nationals, bidding to win the national title that ‘the big fella’ had dearly wanted but never achieved.

Unfortunately Mike, due to work commitments, was forced to miss the Wellington trip, but the trio found a more-thancapable replacement in Kevin Greenwood, who had given up the game three years earlier to become a rep selector.

Flying well under the bowling radar, the Marlborough quartet

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October 2021

Raising the Dominion Trophy aloft are, from left, Bob Dowling, Andre Smith, Lloyd Gallop and Kevin Greenwood.

made their way comfortably through post section play with four wins.

Then it was on to three rounds of knockout play to find the final 16. Victories over Barry le Page (Wanganui East) 16-13, Denis Ryan (Paraparaumu Beach) 24-11 and Bruce Malcolm (Port Chalmers) 17-14 saw them begin to attract attention.

In the round of 16 Andre’s giantkillers beat Ken Walker’s wellperformed Fairfield four 25-19 to reach the final eight, before a 20-10 win over Lou Newman of Victoria saw them book a semi-final berth against Patrick Campbell of Rawhiti.

In a thriller, Campbell, with former champion Nick Unkovich at three, led 9-0 after four ends but Andre’s crew chipped away, drew ahead 16-14 with a four on the 12th and prevailed 21-17 with a two on the final end.

Fittingly, their final opponent was a four skipped by the prodigiouslytalented Cantabrian Gary Lawson, who had ousted Kevin Gallop’s four, which included Andre, at the semi-final stage in 1994.

The title-winning Marlborough combination celebrate with friends and family. Photo supplied.

Lawson’s quartet went in as the hottest of favourites. After all, the skip had been national fours champ during four of the past five years and had such accomplished operators as Andrew Curtain, Glen McDonald, and singles champion Kelvin Scott around him. They boasted 13 national titles to the Marlborough four’s none and were at ridiculously short odds on the TAB. However, the odds-makers had not reckoned on the Marlburians’ “secret weapon” - the need to honour a fallen brother and team-mate.

The final, at the Naenae green, began as predicted, Lawson’s quartet racing to a 6-0 lead after four ends.

However, a four on the fifth gave Andre’s combination confidence and belief. They picked up another shot on the sixth then hit the lead in the seventh as Lloyd and Andre drew shots.

The Marlborough four’s lead lengthened to 10-6 with the damage being done at the front as Bob (lead) and Kevin (two) held sway over Curtain and Scott.

But Lawson’s team were a seasoned crew and, helped by a four on the 11th end, had tied the match up at 13-13 by the 15th.

Then, with a large group of supporters, including Kevin and Lloyd’s mother Kath, riding each delivery greenside, the underdogs took over, shutting out the Cantabrians with five

shots on the final three ends to claim the game’s blue riband event 18-13.

“We figured we would try to work together to get a title for the big fella,” said Andre. “This is what we came here for, to play this one for Kevin, and it was just a matter of seeing it through.”

“This is a pretty emotional moment,” said Lloyd immediately after the final. “We were on a mission for my brother when we came here and that’s been our motivation throughout.”

Andre’s four were just the second Marlborough combination to claim the national fours crown, following the efforts of Rangi Brown, Harry Todd, Stan Barlow and Bill Humphreys (all from the now defunct Marlborough club) in 1962.

Then, in 2011, Lloyd was joined by his son Matt, along with Ali Forsyth and Graham Hood from the Pelorus club, as they became the third four from this province to get their name on the impressive trophy, the top prize in NZ lawn bowls.

All three stories are unique and inspirational. However, the 1998 four, who were honoured with the top award at that year’s Marlborough Sportsperson of the Year dinner, proved that sometimes sporting fairy tales really do come true.

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October 2021

ON THE STREET Bex Vuletich lives an active lifestyle, that’s why her favourite style is active wear. And in her role as a real estate salesperson, her chic style shines through.

What are you wearing today?

A long sleeve, high necked KETZ-KE top, Camilla and Marc Blue Jacket with my usual Just Jeans Super Pants because I’m just not a skirt on its own kinda girl. And boots because as much as I envy people who wear heels during the day, I know that my boots have got my back on all terrains.

Do you have a usual style?

Classic chic.

What item do you have the most of in your wardrobe?

I have a ridiculous number of dresses and kimonos for one wardrobe. I did a count up, turns out I have 31 dresses and 15 kimonos that sit patiently waiting for me to decide to wear them. That’s one kimono per two dresses, slight self-confessed obsession!

What looks or trends do you like now?

I love all the new active wear types that keep rolling out. I get FOMO from them because I want them all but can’t decide which ones I like best, so luckily I don’t have as much active wear as I do dresses and kimonos. Some days I put active wear on to remind myself that I should be doing exercise even if I don’t do it and instead end up cleaning the bathroom and cooking dinner in it, sighing at myself having had good intentions at the end of the night. Other days I’m a 6am nutter and use it for its intended purpose.

Where do you buy most of your clothes?

If you look in my wardrobe an abnormally large portion of it is from Pagani. Since that has closed down, in Blenheim I do my shopping at Crew, Thomas’s, No.4 Boutique, Farmers or Just Jeans, but, everyone who knows me knows I really miss Pagani!! Outside of Blenheim, Decjuba, Forever New or Portmans.

What is your favourite all time buy?

My animal print fur jacket by Society Amuse from Crew in Blenheim. It was actually love at first sight.

Worst clothing disaster?

Ordering some jumpsuit shorts from Shein for summer.

They must have been stitched up so fast the left side was about 10cm below the right side. Learnt my lesson and never ordered from them again!

What’s a wardrobe staple everyone should invest in?

A quality black dress never lets you down. Even on your crappiest night, it delivers.

Which celebrity’s sense of style do you admire?

Sienna Miller, she always seems to pull off an effortless chic beachy boho style.

Finish this sentence. You would never catch me wearing…

Socks with crocs are just not ok and won’t ever get the seal of approval or land on my feet... unless I’m at someone’s house and need to borrow a pair to scurry across a wet driveway of course!

Sarah Brown

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October 2021

My Home

View of the luscious garden featuring a unique tiled egg BBQ

My

home

Helene Marchant welcomes us into her home where treasured antiques and statement pieces tell their own story.

Home Owner, Helene Marchant with a warm welcome from her entrance way

Where is your home and who lives here, and how long have you lived here?

What four words would you use to describe your home?

Our home is in Renwick, Heart of Wine Country. We migrated from Australia 26 years ago and after looking at more than 45 houses in the first week we came across this one that wasn’t even on the market. We loved it so much, we asked the realt estate agent at the time to stop and knock on the door and ask the current owner if he was keen to sell. My husband Ian and I raised our two boys, Brodie and Luke, here and currently Ian, myself and Princess the Hungarian Puli live here.

Homely, elegant, luxurious and inviting

What inspired this look?

I love clean lines and elegant looks, plus the spaciousness of the house allows freedom and extra comfort without feeling cluttered. True comfort for me is liveability and functionality.

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What do you love about the neighbourhood where you live?

I love living in Renwick and I guess 26 years in the same home is testament to that. We are walking distance to pubs, café, chemist, post office, grocery store and close proximity to winery restaurants and the views to the Richmond Ranges never disappoint.

What piece would you never part with?

The Sculpture Face Artwork from Sweden.

Handmade by a famous Swedish Glass Artist.

What’s your favourite spot in the house?

The kitchen, where I create restaurant quality meals for the Eleni Food Bag, and Eleni Catering, but for relaxation I think the lush green garden as it helps me unwind.

Where do you shop for homewares?

Have you done any renovations?

We turned the upstairs living quarters into luxury accommodation with three unique rooms. Aphrodite, Zeus, and Eleni. What I like to call the Oasis of the Gods.

What’s your favourite room?

Anywhere from local to all over the world.

If it captures my eye, its mine.

There are so many rooms that are a favourite depending on the mood of the day, but the downstairs lounge has the sun beaming in all of the seasons and has spectacular views to the garden.

What’s your decorating style?

What should every home have?

Elegant and sophisticated modern classic.

A mix of old and new décor. A mix of modern pieces and antique never tires.

When it comes to homeware, do you save or splurge?

Which items or fixtures did you splurge on and where did you save?

Splurge for sure. If you buy one good piece every year for five years then you’ll always have five great pieces even if everything else changes.

Our fabulous antiques which only get better with age. Better to cry once and have forever pieces that can be handed down.

Best money spent?

The Chesterfield Sofa. Classic and timeless

Captions: Hutch Dresser handed down through Ian’s family. It belonged to a stately home in England. | Handmade Sculpture Face by Famous

Swedish Glass Artist. | Handmade by Ian (Husband) from a jarrah winery tank. | The beloved chesterfield | Reindeer skin purchased from Lapland in Northern Sweden. Sustainably harvested from the North of the Artic Circle. | The Zeus room in the Eleni Homestay. | Heaven under the Wisteria. | The Aphrodite room in the Eleni Homestay.

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October 2021

True comfort for me is liveability and functionality.

Best seat in the house?

The Chesterfield

Do you have any tips on how to keep your living area orderly?

No clutter, a home for everything and everything in its home, fresh flowers and a throw and cushions keeps things looking great.

What is one thing you would change about your home if you could?

Put a glass sliding door from the master bedroom out to the garden. That would create the ultimate sitting spot with a morning cuppa.

Best memory in your house?

Our boys growing up in the house and it’s still a place where they come back to hang out and feel connected.

Did any of your purchases cause a debate?

A good debate helps you see the power of rational. The story is always compelling.

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Extraordinary swimming pools, like extraordinary homes, don’t just happen, they are created.

12 Timandra Place, Blenheim | 03 578 5928 www.aquanort.co.nz | norton@aquanort.co.nz

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October 2021

Gina Maunder of Spark Business Hub Marlborough is focused on finding the best tech solutions for her clients.

Supporting local businesses like no other

S

park New Zealand are helping give local businesses an edge in the ever-changing world of Information Technology (IT). With their finger on the pulse for everything digital, Spark are able to tie all business IT needs into one neat, steam lined, package to help each business become more productive and sustainable.

Gina Maunder, Spark Business Hub account manager for Marlborough, is focused on finding the best tech solutions for each and every client and says the biggest issue that she sees businesses struggle with is that their technology is spread over many different providers. “Having tech systems spread across different contracts with different suppliers is what we encounter most frequently. Being able to condense everything they need into one provider is a huge advantage.

We are a one stop shop!”

The ability to provide a personal face-to-face service for each local business is key, Gina says. “We are the only telecommunications company that have business representatives in each region that can sit down with the client and go through everything with them one-on-one. Our customers really enjoy that personal connection.”

For state-of-the-art winery Yealands, Spark has been a vital partner assisting their digital system transition within their business. Mike Wentworth, general manager for Yealands Wine Group, says: “Ensuring we have a resilient network with technology that is versatile, robust and enhances decision making is imperative in today's ever-changing environment”.

Gina and her team are committed to making IT transitions as smooth as possible, offering local expertise and support.

In-depth knowledge of the area and being able to provide a personal touch sets Spark Business apart from other competitors, says Gina. “Being part of a small region people know who you are and word of mouth is really important.”

Spark Business Hub Marlborough support local businesses and help them grow. “We are all about getting the right solutions to fit each business.”

Another area of interest for many businesses recently is IoT, otherwise known as the ‘Internet of Things’. IoT encompasses every object or ‘thing’ connected to the internet. From sensors to smartphones, vehicles to entire buildings, IoT is made up of connected devices that ‘talk’ to each other while collecting useful information that isn't available otherwise.

For example, arrays of connected moisture sensors monitoring the condition of fields on a farm and constantly relaying that data to the farmer’s computer, or asset-tracking tags on the containers of a freight company allowing them to track where they’re currently located.

Spark predicts that around 22 million ‘things’ will be connected in Aotearoa by the end of 2021. They believe our country is ready for a more sustainable and productive future, and that their Internet of Things can help make it happen.

Spark Business Hub Marlborough Ph 0800 482 673 77 Market St, Blenheim spark.co.nz/business

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Rea ch for the sky

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Outside In Art Exhibition

T

he Mayfair - Te Whare Toi ō Kaikōura is a brand-new award-winning architect designed Arts & Culture Centre that opened its doors in November 2020.

The Centre is launching its visiting artists programme with an impressive exhibition Outside In by Nelson based artist Geoff Noble, opening to the public on 1 October until 31 October 2021, open daily from 10am - 5pm, closed Mondays.

Geoff has strong connections with the Kaikōura Coast and his affinity with the region is channelled into a skilfully produced exhibition, mingling stylised realist images with traditional landscapes to capture his observations of the area.

The essence is conveyed in bold, colourful paintings that indulge the eyes, wow the mind, and stir a feeling of nostalgia for all those who share an affinity with the region.

The purpose of this body of works is to bring the ‘outside in’, to highlight the environment that Geoff is so fond of by adding windows of many colours for the viewer to sense and savour the many moods that the Kaikoura Coast displays from dawn to dusk.

This body of paintings are a progression from Geoff's last solo exhibition Synthesis, maintaining the atmospheric environments, yet moving further from figurative to natural land and seascapes.

You will feel the impact of the larger, striking paintings immediately, such as Out of the Blue with its sublime aqua barrel and lush green of the land. In Weightless, Arctic terns dance in the ocean air, followed by detailed smaller works that equally cascade Geoff's passion for the ocean and its surroundings on to the board.

Paintings like Freight Trains touch on the beauty of the area while introducing the base colour palette to the viewer. By the time you get to the Mount Fyffe painting Dawn Chorus, the palette has expanded and surprised you yet again, then flowing as you walk through the show to discover more involved and complex representations.

Tahi, a rendering of the two bridges at Iron Gate punches through the division of colour and mixes traditional hand painting with airbrush application, allowing the artist to highlight the visual content in textures.

With love for colour and process Geoff starts with a hint of the conservative, then pulls apart the realist tendencies and delves into a more involved pallet and application, breaking the traditional mould while maintaining a clear narrative in the compositions.

Geoff Noble works from his Studio in Tahunanui, Nelson, and has been travelling to the Kaikoura region for the past 20 years, having a close family connection there. With more than 25 years of solid studio practice refining his process in Art, he also enjoys surfing, which in itself explains his very close connection to his theme and which locals will especially appreciate as they see their gems rendered by hand into works of art.

This is a wonderful opportunity to see a vibrant and striking body of new works, especially curated by Geoff Noble for exhibit at ‘The Mayfair - Te Whare Toi ō Kaikōura’.

For more details on The Mayfair’s programme and the exhibition go to Facebook @geoffnobleartist or geoffnoble.co.nz. Facebook @MayfairKaikoura or themayfair.org.nz

ABOVE: Works such as, from left, Weightless, Dawnchorus and Out of The Blue are immediately striking.

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October 2021

PUKAPUKA TALKS Join 29 of Aotearoa's leading authors and change-makers for four days of inspiring kōrero.

Info & tickets: nelsonartsfestival.nz Supported by

21 - 31 October 2021 47

Captivating displays, amazing stories, warbird joyflights and excellent coffee!

Open 7 days, 79 Aerodrome Rd, Blenheim Ph (03) 579 1305 www.omaka.org.nz

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October 2021

16 October FABRIC-A-BRAC MARLBOROUGH 2021 An event for fabric-lovers and lovers of sewing - if you are looking for modern or vintage fabric, haberdashery, patterns and all things sewing-related, Fabric-a-brac is for you!

Connect Blenheim, 8 Beaver Road 10am–2pm

MARLBOROUGH EVENTS GUIDE

Pick up your copy from Marlborough District Council follow-me.co.nz

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2 BLENHEIM MUSICAL REGISTERED THEATRE MISERABLE MASTERLES BUILDERS INFORMATION NIGHT APPRENTICE OF

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THE YEAR AWARDS Blenheim

Renwick 1.

Director Peter Meikle and Shelley Fraser

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Josh Marshall and Michelle Chapman John and Trevor Tovey James Dight, Ella Kendrick Harvey Rowan Lee, Donna Lee, Daniel OKeefe and Theodore McFadden and Scott Kinzett Emily Hales and Choreographer Liana Bell Brent Woodward and Cameron Palmer-Mcgruer Chris Valli and Linda van Kuyk Henry Leov and Mark Lovelock Ella Kendrick Harvey and Racheal Kenyon Kelvin and Jess Deaker Joshua Wright and Peter Meikle Mathew Campbell and William Reimers Louisa Woods, Liana Bell and Shandi Smale Fergus Kearns and Hamish Scott Vocal Director Linda Holdaway, Production Rodney Cooke and Small ManagerWiblim, MichaelGary Wentworth andDaniel Liana Bell

9. Stuart Caulfield, Neville Ward and Kieren Mallon 10. Meghan Deaker, Donna Ryan and Hamish Ryan MALINDA BONIFACE MARLBOROUGH MAG

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Gardening

It’s planting time Kitchen Garden Sow seeds: Beetroot, beans, carrots, cabbage, cauliflower, eggplants, kohl Rabi, lettuce, cucumber, melons. Transplant to the garden as the weather warms and when they are showing at least two sets of true leaves. If you’re not sure about growing from seeds.

Plant seedlings: Eggplant, capsicum, cucumber, melons, lettuce, capsicums, leeks, cabbage, corn, pumpkin, celery, onions, silverbeet, courgettes.

Tomatoes can be planted now the weather is warmer. Dig compost into the soil before planting. Put the stake in at the same time to save root damage later on.

Plant seedlings: Beans, peas, courgettes, cauliflower, carrots, radish, beetroot, pumpkin, spinach, corn, lettuce and tomatoes.

Feed all vegetable plants fortnightly with a liquid fertiliser, water and fertiliser at the same time!

Feed your potatoes with blood and bone every two weeks and remember to mound up the soil around as the foliage as it grows.

Protect seedlings with slugs and snails with bait, scatter around each plant.

Garden Colour Keep on top of the weeds around your vegetables when they are small, use a torpedo hoe to nip them off at the roots.

Lavender makes a great low hedge, suits every garden and is perfectly happy by the seaside.

Sow seeds: Alyssum, Californian poppy, marigolds, cosmos, nasturtium, Livingstone daisy, petunia, salvia and gerberas.

Transplant to the garden as the weather warms and when they are showing at least two sets of true leaves.

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Plant seedlings: Ageratum, alyssum, aster, begonia, californian poppy, carnation, cosmos, dahlia, impatiens, marigold, and petunia. Your local Mitre 10 store will now be stocking a full range of spring annuals.

Sunflowers can now be planted directly in to the soil.

Plant for bees: Pineapple sage, bergamot, lemon balm, blue salvia, coreopsis, echinops, eryngium, gaillardia, alyssum, rosemary. They love these simple flowers.

Feed all flowering annuals and perennials, use an all purpose fertiliser.

Trees and Shrubs Fill up any empty space in the shrub border. More plants, less weeds.

Feed flowering shrubs with a side dressing of general fertiliser.

Evergreen hedges should be pruned before the end of the active growing season. Prune lightly with hedge shears to desired height and width.

If hydrangeas are looking a bit pale, give the colour a boost.

Sulphate of Aluminium will intensify the blue coloured flowers; add lime for your pink flowers.

Lawn Spray for Onehunga weed, it comes in to flower in September and October now is the time to spray for it.

Attack the broadleaf weeds in the lawn. Wait for a calm day before using any sprays.

Sow new lawn; take advantage of the spring rain and warmth to germinate new seed.

Fertilise your lawn for spring. Apply evenly across the whole lawn and water in.

Roasted Asparagus and Mushrooms October means it’s finally truly spring and we can get really excited about one of our favourite vegetables – asparagus!

Asparagus is in season for a short time so make the most of it with this simple but super-tasty dish.

INGREDIENTS •

0.5kg pound asparagus, trimmed and halved crosswise

•

0.5kg of field mushrooms

•

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

•

1 teaspoon kosher salt

•

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

•

1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

•

1 cup loosely packed watercress or arugula (about 1/4 ounce)

•

Flaky sea salt

•

Aged balsamic vinegar, for drizzling

DIRECTIONS Step 1 Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminium foil. Arrange asparagus and mushrooms in an even layer on prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with kosher salt, and toss to coat. Roast in preheated oven, stirring occasionally, until charred and tender, about 15 minutes. Add butter and thyme leaves. Once butter is melted, toss vegetables to coat, and roast until glazed, about 5 minutes.

Step 2 Arrange roasted vegetables on a platter, top with watercress, and season with flaky sea salt to taste. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar.

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October 2021

Health

Fitness for mental fitness If you’ve been feeling a bit low over the colder months, get outside for some exercise and see the difference it makes to your mental well-being.

Words: Dr Marissa Kelaher

W

hile we all hear about how good exercise is for mental well-being, what does the research actually show?

These studies have found that exercise works by: • Reducing cortisol levels (stress hormone)

Scientific studies are often divided among population groups and look at patterns within large numbers of people, versus clinical trials where an intervention takes place, and the effect is measured.

• Increasing the size of your hippocampus (the part of the brain that stores memories and regulates emotional responses - this also makes you smarter and your brain age slower!)

In both areas there is amazing evidence which shows exercise is a powerful tool for use in preventing mental health issues from occurring, and in treating them.

• Releasing hormones that make you feel good (endorphins) and those which make you happy (serotonin and dopamine).

For example, large population studies from around the world consistently show that regular exercise (150 minutes per week) reduces the risk of depression by around 30 per cent. That is just as effective as many antidepressant medications.

• Increasing blood flow to the brain and stimulating the release of BDNF (a hormone that causes brain growth and rewiring).

And if you’re pushed for time, even shorter, more intensive exercise has a similar effect. This might be running 10 minutes per day or doing 10 minutes of high intensity training (HIIT).

• Triggering vagus nerve activation (the “rest and relax” part of your nervous system).

Exercise is highly potent in guarding against mental health problems in young children and teenagers as well.

Clinical trials have backed up these findings. One trial compared a group of people prescribed exercise against a group prescribed antidepressants, and one group given a placebo. A follow up four months later found that regular exercise was a remedy as effective as those who took antidepressants.

Each group improved significantly over that which took the placebo, but even more impressively, the people who exercised remained well when followed up a year later. The conclusion was that it prevented a relapse into depression.

Exercise is also proven to help with both anxiety and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is known to help ease the frequency and levels of anxiety symptoms, and the severity of panic attacks.

• Reducing inflammation (strongly linked to depression).

Exercise also improves sleep, concentration, libido, selfesteem, and energy levels - all of which are symptoms of depression or anxiety.

If you exercise in nature, such as a hike in the mountains or a swim in the sea, the effects are even greater. Studies have shown this can reduce stress levels by up to 60 per cent.

Motivation is often a barrier to exercise and if you’re feeling down, starting an exercise plan can feel overwhelming.

The secret is to begin with small, achievable goals and slowly build up from there. Even a 10 minute walk each day can really help, but try making it a regular habit.

The more you do it the easier it will get - new habits need about four weeks of consistency to become inbuilt. Find an activity you love doing and you’ll soon notice the difference.

Exercise also appears to “rewire” the brain out of the cycle of thoughts that occur after trauma, therefore helping to ward off the onset of PTSD.

So how does it actually work?

Scientists have done some interesting research on this, using blood tests to measure levels of stress hormones as well as “happy hormones” before and after exercise. They also use functional magnetic resonance images (MRIs) to look at how the brain changes in response to exercise.

Dr Marissa Kelaher is a Nelson based GP who runs lifestyle, nutritional medicine and plant-based health clinics. She is based at Nelson Family Medicine.

Check out Marissa’s blogs and health and wellness tips at thesimplicitydoctor.com or on Facebook and Instagram @thesimplicitydoctor

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