Wednesday 5 February 2025
Donors deliver
Bird poo causing a stink
PAULA HULBURT
Birds are ruffling feathers in Blenheim’s town centre – fouling pavements and buildings with their mess.
Pigeons and seagulls have been bothering business owners and operators, swooping on passersby and splattering streets with their droppings.
The birds, perched mainly on roofs along the corner of Queen Street and High Street, are also a noise nuisance.
Herb and Olive café on High Street is situated close to the nesting sites.
Owner Richard Barton says the birds are putting potential customers off.
‘They’re ruining the CBD. We struggle as it is with everyone moving to Westwood and then we have this problem.
“Customers notice [the mess] and ask what’s happening.”
Both red and black billed gulls are a protected native species under the Wildlife Act. Pigeons are not protected. Their nests cannot be moved once eggs have been laid.
ABOVE: Herb and Olive café co-owner Richard Barton wants council to consider more preventative action when it comes to stopping birds nesting in the town centre.
LEFT: Stinking up Blenheim are local birds who have found a favourite place to poo much to the concern of local businesses.
netic deterrent at Te Kahu o Waipuna library/art gallery and carries out regular footpath cleaning throughout the Blenheim and Picton CBDs.
Richard would like to see something similar put in place for the worst hit areas in the CBD.
“Why’s that not happening here?
“The amount of poo, it’s just unhygienic. It’s been the businesses cleaning up, I haven’t seen any council cleaners yet.”
Marlborough Roads Principal Network Manager Amanda Smith told the Marlborough Weekly crews are responding to the issue.
She says more time will be spent cleaning up the areas where the seagulls are creating a mess.
“The team will use a sweeper unit, water cart and water blaster, starting from 2am, Monday to Wednesday.
“We will monitor the success of this initiative and adjust the regime if required.”
Bird spikes are already in place at the top of some buildings where the birds gather. But more preventative measures and needed, Richard says.
“When I arrive early in the morning, it’s like they’re taking over the place. Sometimes when I just walk past my car, they go for me.”
Building owners are responsible for maintaining their properties and many have installed spikes and other protective measures. Council uses an electromag-
Council also provides wheelie bins to all CBD businesses which means rubbish bags are no longer left on the street for gulls to get into.
Cafe owners are asked to encourage customers not to feed the birds.
Photos: Paula Hulburt.
Fast fix for monster troubles
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Heroic efforts and a record-breaking gearbox change helped save the day for a monster truck show organiser.
With just a few hours until Kiwi Steel’s monster truck event in Blenheim last weekend, a gearbox blew on one of the trucks.
With an eager crowd gathering to see the full fleet in action, Kiwi Steel organiser Neil Dempsey was determined not to let ticket holders down. The Taurus monster truck had it’s Chevrolet PH400 gearbox “blow to smithereens” on route to Pak Lim’s Road where it was going on display.
The entire team launched into a rescue mission for a replacement.
Thanks to a rapid trip to Christchurch and back, Taurus was able to enter the Eastern States Speedway arena to wow the Blenheim crowds. “It was very close to the wire, to the point we changed the entire order of the show through the afternoon to plan for the likelihood Taurus wouldn’t be able to run on the night,” Neil says. “The whole Eastern States Speedway helped get the word
out and found one in Picton, but it turned out to be the wrong one after some of the team got it unbolted.”
“We eventually found one in Christchurch, collected it and arrived back at 6pm, proceeded to do the fastest gearbox swap I’ve ever seen thanks to our crews, the Speedway and Power Farming engineers on hand, and got it running 20 minutes into the show.”
However, Neil says that de-
spite some strong language in the pits on the repair, the Kiwi Steel Rodeo crew appreciated the crowd’s support and loved their Blenheim stop.
“We were stoked with the show, and the size and enthusiasm of the crowd.
“We’ve had so much positive feedback from the show, so it’s really a massive thanks to the whole team still bringing their best to what was a fun night for all involved.”
Ferry stowaways: Interislander welcomed a couple of surprise passengers on board last week when two unexpected passengers took a day trip. Two young Prions became stranded on Kaitaki’s outer decks. Crew leaders Samantha and Laura, along with Cabin Attendant Marguerite, stepped in to help. The Department of Conservation organised for the birds to be treated at Wellington Zoo Te Nukuao, The Nest for treatment.
Handbag appeal: The 2025 Love Grace Handbag Appeal starts again on Feb 14. Held in memory of Grace Millane, the appeal started to help end violence against women and empower those affected.
Supported by Women’s Refuge, donations of bags are needed filled with items women may need such as toiletries. Drop off points will be announced soon. The appeal runs until 8 March.
Airport enhancements take off: Construction is set to begin on Marlborough Airport’s largest upkeep project to date. It will take 35 nightshifts to lay 70,500 square metres of pavement across the airport’s runway, taxiway and apron. The $10.7 million maintenance project will also see improvements to emergency access, lighting and changes to cope with the expected arrival of electric aircraft.
Adding to the kitty
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Local animal lovers can help kittens and puppies feel comfortable while awaiting their forever home in the SPCA shelter by catching up and chowing down.
The SPCA’s Chow for Charity fundraising dinner, on February 22, is raising funds to ensure that animals in the Renwick centre are well-trained, socialised and entertained before adoption day into their forever homes.
And through the support shown by attendees, local SPCA staff will be able to encourage more enrichment activities for their temporary residents so future animal parents will receive a happy, social and happy pet.
“In a shelter environment, they can easily miss all those sorts of things when it is most vital, so making sure they have enrichment, entertainment and education in the centre is key”, says SPCA’s Vicky Green.
“In homes, they’ve got lots of treats, toys and more activities to do, so funds from the night will go specifically towards their enrichment.
“It’s less stressful, more enjoy-
able, and provides them with more homely environment rather than a hospital - when you have bored dogs especially, they can lead to behavioural issues which we don’t want when they go into homes.
“Keeping their mind and body stimulated, especially for the energetic ones we get, helps with any sort of behavioural issues so they’re more likely to find their
forever home.
And as Chow for Charity gets closer, the team say that every dollar from tickets and auction items on the night will have a major impact on the lives of the animals they look after.
“It’s a big night out in Renwick all for a fantastic cause”, says Michelle.
“We’ve socially taken a back seat lately by focusing on the animal
rescues, so we’re looking forward to being out and about raising for more support and the funding to do an even better job.
“Happier, engaged animals mean less stress for them and for us, and the evening is just a great reason to get people together”.
For Chow for Charity tickets, email Vicky.green@spca.nz or jenna.kitto@spca.nz
SPCA Renwick’s Susanne Owen, Nicole Price , Vicky Green and Michelle Gush pose with the “Butter” litter of kittens. Photo: William Woodworth.
Kiwi Steel Rodeo’s Taurus in action at Eastern States Speedway last Saturday. Photo: Alex Roberton.
Back to school in style
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
New Year 9 students at both Blenheim’s colleges started the new school year with a fresh new look. A new year and a new uniform marked the start of the 2025 school year for incoming students at both Marlborough Girls’ and Marlborough Boys’ Colleges.
Marlborough Girls’ College hosted their Year 9s and their families on Friday with the help of the 2025 prefect body, while Marlborough Boys’ College opened its doors on Monday for the start of the year The mihi whakatau (welcoming ceremony) at both colleges was fol-
lowed by a chat with staff and parents.
Prefects accompanied new students through their first day at high school, aiming to create a more unified student body in 2025.
“We’re really delighted to welcome the lifeblood of our school, which is our youngest students, into our family,” says Marlborough Girls’ College principal Mary-Jeanne Lynch. “Our senior students are important so Year 9s are not overwhelmed by the transition - some students will come from really small schools where there’s only one or two students in the group, there’s 210 or so students in Year 9, and it
can be overwhelming.
“We’re going to work with these beautiful young students and their families to help them grow into being leaders of tomorrow.”
Marlborough Boys’ College Principal Jarrod Dunn agreed when he spoke with Marlborough Weekly on Monday morning. “It’s fantastic to see the family support behind our new students and start the school year on a positive note.
“I task our prefects to be the tuakana for our new students, assist them with the transition into our school, and task our new students with getting stuck into their interests across school life through their time here.”
Principal Mary-Jeanne Lynch, left, with Year 9 students Tanisha Langi, Ella Hodgkinson, Izzy Lavirick, Ariana Pedersen, Breese Chilvers, Katie Clarke, and Year 9 Dean Jenny Pullin. Photo: William Woodworth.
Marlborough Boys’ College Head Boy Nathan Brooke-Taylor, left, Principal Jarrod Dunn and new Year 9 student Koda Murphy. Photo: William Woodworth.
‘Dr Dave’ prepares for epic swim
PETER JONES
Dave Edgar’s eyes will be firmly fixed on weather forecasts in the deep south over the next few days.
The accomplished marathon swimmer and endurance athlete plans to swim Foveaux Strait, the 28.6km stretch of water between the lower tip of the South Island and Stewart Island, around February 7, his bid dependent on weather, tide times and local knowledge.
If Dave manages the Foveaux crossing, he will have completed the “New Zealand Triple Crown of open water swimming” after swimming Cook Strait in February 2024 and circumnavigating Lake Taupo five years ago. However, the southernmost challenge is considered as tough, if not tougher, than the others. Only 15 people have successfully swum the Foveaux Strait. It is notorious for unpredictable weather and chilly waters. Triple Crown swimmers are not allowed to wear wetsuits. Beyond the physical challenge, swimmers often encounter local marine life, including the presence of great white sharks, adding an extra layer of excitement to the endeavour. Only 10 swimmers have complet-
ed the Triple Crown. The first person to swim Foveaux Strait was John van Leeuwen in 1963, taking 13 hours and 36 minutes.
Meda McKenzie became the first woman and second person, to complete the swim in 1979.
The 52-year-old Army Major, born and bred in Tokoroa but resident in Marlborough for the past nine years, hopes to touch down in Stewart Island in around “eight to 10 hours”.
As a high-performance strength
and conditioning coach and military officer, Dave combines his diverse skills to empower others and raise awareness and vital funds in support of children and teenagers with dyslexia and learning difficulties, an issue close to his heart.
“Last year, after I swam Cook Strait I just wanted to do something, so I set up a Dr Dave Swims Givealittle page to support dyslexia, because I am dyslexic, which most people don’t even
know because I have found my way through it. Now I am just trying to advocate for other people with [dyslexia]. Trying to help them find their ways round it.”
Last year he personally paid for some reader recorders at MBC, equipment designed to help dyslexics at exam time, and set up an ongoing Navigators Learning Award for achievement in learning. Although Marlborough-based, Dave travels widely, his role of “officer commanding
physical performance” for all branches of the military taking him all around the country.
An accomplished triathlete and Ironman contestant in his early years, attending five world champs, knee issues forced Dave to change tack, with long-distance, open-water swimming becoming his discipline of choice.
Asked why he takes on such gruelling missions, he is blunt.
“I don’t like to rest on my laurels, you know. I love doing it and at the end of the day I have always been an endurance athlete … I think it’s normal, although my wife always tells me, ‘no it’s not’. Basically, I just like to challenge myself.”
He has not shirked on the challenges. On the academic side, Dave has a PhD in sleep and recovery, plus a Masters in strength and conditioning, having spent several years as the strength and conditioning coach of the Manu Samoa men’s rugby side, attending two World Cups.
His forthcoming trip south is yet another challenge, a sizeable one, but if preparation, motivation and attitude count for anything, the job’s as good as done. Dave’s Givealittle page is https:// givealittle.co.nz/.../dr-daveswims-dr-david...
Dave Edgar has been training at the local stadium’s outdoor pool. Photo Peter Jones.
Original plans for town square unearthed
PAULA HULBURT
Original plans for Blenheim’s picturesque Seymour Square included a reflecting pool and a band rotunda it has been revealed.
Council’s Parks and Open Spaces and Heritage Marlborough teams have unearthed the original plans for the town centre space.
The 75-year-old discovery comes after The New Zealand Gardens Trust recently awarded the town centre garden four stars, sparking
fresh interest in its history.
Heritage Marlborough Manager
Liz Ward says after the Second World War the government encouraged communities to remember the war in the form of community spaces.
“There was a fund available for building memorials that provided cultural and recreation spaces.
“This could be why the council looked at converting Seymour Square into a war memorial garden at the time,” she explains.
In the 1950 plan by Ernest Hubbard a new band rotunda was set to be built
The idea later scrapped as the way people listened to music was changing, Liz explains.
“The fact that the idea of band rotunda was abandoned also says something about changing leisure habits of the time.
“With widespread radio ownership no one needed to go to a park to listen to music as it was available at home.
“These plans never came to fruition and instead the existing band rotunda was demolished, and the current fountain was built as a memorial to those from Marlborough who served in the war.”
The council holds many local history gems in its local authority archive including minutes, registers, maps, plans and photographs, with some dating back to the 1860s.
Marlborough District Council’s Parks and Open Spaces Manag-
er Jane Tito says the one-hectare area was set aside in 1857 and was initially used for rugby and cricket.
“Today Seymour Square is a much-loved park of which we can all be very proud,” she says.
“The New Zealand Garden Trust’s four-star rating is wonderful recognition for the garden team, led by Brad Moloney, who spend many hours to ensure all Council parks and gardens are in great shape for locals and visitors.”
Heritage Marlborough Manager Liz Ward with the original plans for Seymour Square.
Photo: Paula Hulburt.
Council's Blenheim office, Marlborough Library (Blenheim) and Picton Library and Service Centre are closed on Waitangi Day, Thursday 6 February.
REFUSE, RECYCLING, AND KERBSIDE COLLECTIONS
Kerbside refuse and recycling will be collected as usual.
The Resource Recovery Centre, Re-use Centre and Waste Sorting Centre will be open from 8am until 4.30pm. The landfill will be open between 8am and midday only. The E Waste facility will be closed.
The Picton and Havelock transfer stations will be open as usual from 8am until 4pm. Rai Valley Transfer Station will be open from 9am until midday.
Transfer stations in Seddon and Wairau Valley will be closed.
BUS SERVICES
Bus services will not run on Thursday 6 February.
Bloody good response for donations
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
For the first time since 2016, Marlburians have contributed locally to the New Zealand medical system’s collective need for blood.
New Zealand Blood Service’s mobile clinic collected 230 donations over three days, with many new donors stepping up alongside dedicated returnees.
NZ Blood’s Southern Donor Relations team leader Boyd Warren says the mobile clinic will be returning to Marlborough now the safe transport of blood products had improved.
“The safety of blood products are paramount, so we haven’t felt comfortable over the past few years confirming the safety of the donations post the 2016 earthquake,” Boyd says.
“But, by working with NZ Post to courier donations regularly, Sounds Air flying up our nine nurses, and volunteers from the Marlborough Women’s Club as support staff, it’s great to be able to come back.
“We’ve been really happy with the support especially from the 60/40 ration of new donors to returnees.”
Two collections a day were sent to Christchurch from the collection site at Lansdowne Park between 28 January and 30 January. This ensured the blood was processed into its three elementsplasma, platelets and red blood cells - in time to be processed for South Island blood banks.
Two donors the Marlborough Weekly spoke to said donating was a small way they can support fellow Kiwis in need.
“It’s my first time donating and I’ve always wanted to in Blenheim, and I always think to do it when I’m in Christchurch but just never have,” Nadine Rarity says.
“People that are using the donated blood really do need it, and donating has been good, easy, and great to see lots of people getting involved.”
“It’s my 49th donation I’ve just done,” Peter Richardson says while sipping on a juice.
“I was in the Air Force for 35
years, and when medics would ask for volunteers to donate everyone put their hands up.
“I give regularly when I can ever since, because it’s just a little good thing to do, isn’t it?”
Marlborough Women’s Club members and volunteers Sue Cooke and Judith Fisher loved being a part of the donation efforts.
hot drinks, juice, cookies, cheese and crackers, and having a chat to make sure they’re alright before leaving,” Judith says.
“We’ve been able to meet so many new people serving them
“I take my hat off to the donation team and the donors, everyone’s been so lovely, fun and relaxed and it’s been lovely to be involved in something so worthwhile,” Sue adds The blood donation mobile clinic’s return is planned from September 30 to October 2, 2025, with bookings opening closer to the time.
Nadine Rarity gives blood for the first time. Photo: William Woodworth.
Peter Richardson after his 49th blood donation.
Dear diary, looks like the lawn mowed itself again today
Opinion Community Comments
Proposed Blenheim Street names divide councillors again: This sort of provocative reporting frustrates me! This headline is far from the truth, ONE councillor has questioned the accuracy of a suggested street name by a developer contained in subcommittee minutes and council has since gone back to a representative of the developer group for comment, it is certainly not a big deal or controversial as this headline would lead you to believe.
David Croad - Councillor for Marlborough.
When I first arrived in Blenheim, I was confronted with three major streets called ‘Renwick’ New, Old, and Mid. Took ages before I could sort them out. I don’t care what the new streets are called as long as they aren’t all called the same.
Jo Mason
Blue Hills Estate, which is developing property in Springlands, off Rose St near Blenheim’s Westwood Business Park, wants to name its three new streets Blue Hills Dr, Chalice Dr and Patriarch Close. I like Liz Davidson close or Alistair Sowman Place!
Yllek Nomis
Marlborough car thieves prefer upmarket cars:
You have to be mechanically minded and in the know to break these down and sell for spare parts… you’d need a well-equipped garage.
Jamarl Thomson
So poor people don’t need to worry awesome to know.
Tui Caldwell
Dollhouse labour of love
Our bird house gives us so much joy. Thanks Dave. Bringing happiness to all walks of the community. Jenny Andrews.
They look beautiful. And “small world play” is shown to be just awesome for kiddies imagination. What a wonderful effort! Emmy Farnes.
Our tamariki absolutely adore the doll’s house we received! It is constantly in use. Thanks Dave St Mary’s Pre-School, Blenheim.
Person critical in three vehicle crash About time they fixed that road, it’s dangerous, it’s a main trunk rd. Where is the new South Island Minister? And Chris Bishop? Veronica Sayer.
Veronica Sayer where is it dangerous? 99% of crashes are caused by human error not roads. Raquel Looms.
It might have something to do with it’s like a back country road. Dark? traffic getting off the ferry late, cars towing boats, campervans and trucks. Holds up traffic for hours when there is an accident due to insufficient pullover bay or passing areas. It might meet local people’s standard but you’re not every user. Veronica Sayor.
If you have a Community Comment you would like to share please email through to: paula@topsouthmedia.co.nz or visit us at 52 Scott Street
STREET YOUR WEEKLY TALK
CHATS TO LOCALS AND ASKS...
Do you think central Blenheim has a seagull problem?
Janet McPherson
Yes I do, generally around the café’s and restaurants in town because they’ll go after unsupervised food there.
Ian Roberts
Coming from the Central North Island, we’ve got more of them in Taupo.
Aija Olsen
I’ve only been here 12 hours and I already don’t like the seagulls.
Helen Tatham
Yes, we’ve been town for 5 minutes and already encountered them. It doesn’t help I have a bit of a bird phobia though.
New era for Queen Charlotte College
PAULA HULBURT
The air was still and stars the only light as people gathered to mark the official opening of the College’s new administration and Science/Tech Buildings.
Led by Te Ātiawa o Te Waka-aMāui and Waikawa whānau, the poignant gathering marked both an ending a new beginning.
An overarching theme of the $9million project has been ‘Titiro whakamuri – kia anga whakamua’ reminding those involved to look to the past to move forward into the future.
For former Queen Charlotte Principal Betty Whyte, the blessing last Wednesday marked the end of a project which began nine years ago.
It’s completion, just as she retired after 32 years at the college, was well timed she says.
“What a way to say goodbye. I feel a great sense of pride in what has been achieved, I’m very proud.”
Addressing about 100 members
of the community who gathered in the college hall after the blessing, Betty paid tribute to both Te Ātiawa o Te Waka-a-Māui and all those who helped bring the pro-
ject to fruition. “I’d like to thank Te Ātiawa for the relationship we’ve had, the support we’ve had from them, we have worked well.
“An amazing people to work with
and their support is really appreciated. We stand on their land.”
Seen by the public for the first time this morning, the new additions include purpose-built tech-
nology and science classrooms and workshops.
Betty says she was delighted to see former pupils involved with the build. “One of the nicest things about meeting the subbies was that there were so many ex-students coming on board… some of whom we’ve taught on the way through.
“I hope we taught them well,” she smiled, “I think we did.”
The two buildings pay homage to manawhenua’s pepeha and their surrounding environment.
The cultural narratives weaved throughout the buildings were set by Marama Burgess and Amai Thompson, on behalf of Te Ātiawa. A mauri stone carved by kaiwhakairo Kahu Paki Paki, has been gifted to Queen Charlotte College from Waikawa Marae and Te Ātiawa and sits in pride of place. It recognises the importance of the whenua of where the school is, and the relationships held between manawhenua and the college.
Celebration time: From left, Marama Burgess (Te Ātiawa) former Queen Charlotte College Principal Betty Whyte and new Principal Brenden Carroll with a mauri stone carved by kaiwhakairo Kahu Paki Paki. Photo: Paula Hulburt.
Out & About
Chinese New Year celebrations at St Andrews Church
1. Zhongzhi Zhang, Jing Yu, Judy Young, Linda Li, Stephanie Tse, Eva Au-Yeung and Karen Whyte
2. Nikita Fostina, Samantha Alcock, Louis Baker, Vincent Meng and William Lin
3. Michelle Jin and Peggy Li
4. Alice, Avalyn and Chenchen Zhu
5. Selly Nia and Catherine Kerby
6. Qiuqin Huang,Himani Goswami and Palek Julka
7. Mia Tisi-Bana, Andrew Li-Wilkes, Frank Tisi-Bana, Raphael de Lucca, Daniel de Lucca and Daniel Li-Wilkes
8. Cheng Hong, Zihan Hong Dengyao Liu Photos: William Woodworth
Stuart Smith pictured celebrating with Brian Dawson, Deborah Dalliessi, Xuemei Zhang, Margaret Western, Yunfei Zhao, Chris and Trish Redwood, and Neil Henry.
The write start for school for 250 kids
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Students at two Marlborough primary schools are starting the year strong, with new stationary packs providing the essentials.
Almost 250 students, 90 from Mayfield School and 159 at Blenheim School, received pens, markers and books for the beginning of the new school year.
The new packs come courtesy of the Tautoko Community Trust and supporters who have been helping both school since 2011.
Tautoko Community Trust manager Carmen Da Costa says contributions from members of Oasis
Family Church, Blue Door, Rannoch Charitable Trust and the wider community mean all students are supported.
Both Mayfield and Blenheim School principals say the support means their students and teachers can start the year strong.
“Mayfield School fully appreciates the support we receive from the Tautoko Trust through the supply of the stationery,” says principal David Nott. “This support removes a start of year cost from our whānau, lessens the stress of getting the kids back to school, and allows our staff to get started with our teaching and learning pro-
grammes straight away, with the tamariki having everything they need for their learning.
“It is a very generous contribution and we are incredibly grateful.”
The Tautoko Trust understands the financial strain and pressure this time of year can cause, says Blenheim School principal Kellyann Thorstensen.
“This invaluable contribution plays a significant role in removing barriers and enhancing the educational experience of our student.
“Our students can simply focus on their learning without any worries about not having the essential tools required.”
LIFE’S A PICNIC FOR MARLBOROUGH’S NEWEST RESIDENTS: Newcomers from around the world have been making new friends in a new home this summer. The Marlborough Multicultural Centre’s (MMC) Pollard Park summer meetups throughout January have brought together people from across the community. More than 50 people showed up for the latest event last Wednesday. MMC culture and sports coordinator Marcelo Gonzalez says the casual, friendly atmosphere means genuine connections are formed. “Marlborough is a small place, and so for events like this having the support across likeminded community groups like the Pasifika Trust and the Red Cross’s resettlement team, it benefits everyone involved when we work together.”
Tautoko Community Trust’s Rob Agnew, Carmen Da Costa, with Mayfield School students Jade, Evie and Tane, Mayfield School principal David Nott and Tautoko’s Logan Brown.
Photo: William Woodworth.
Photo: William Woodworth.
Starting the cycle again
Reporter William Woodworth continues his series talking to some of the people who help make the Marlborough Wine and Food Festival a success. For the final interview before the Marlborough Wine and Food Festival, he speaks with Wine Marlborough Association Deputy Chair and Festival advisory committee member Tracy Johnston.
The hard work for Tracy Johnston’s role on the Marlborough Wine and Food Festival’s advisory committee starts as the final guests leave Renwick Domain on Saturday night.
Festival day marks the culmination of long-term plans coming to fruition for the Wine Marlborough team and the Festival Committee before the process starts again in preparation for the 2026 event.
“At this point it’s all set in place, and we now just need to execute well on the day – this is the biggest single activity that Wine Marlborough does each year.
“It’s a significant piece of work that we deliver for our members and the region,” Tracy says.
Wine Marlborough is also very proud to employ 15 community
groups who support the success of the event with the funds going directly back into local initiatives. Tracy says her Saturday will be primarily spent experiencing the
region’s biggest day out.
“On the day, the Festival Committee members are observing how everything is working together, hearing from people just
what this event means to them and picking up that sentiment to take into planning for next year.
“A big part of our work is almost straight after the event, assessing what went well and what we’d like to do a little differently to keep the event fresh…”
The team has also introduced a new VIP experience in the Culinary Pavilion offering front row tickets for the real food focused attendees.
This year features more varied entertainment across three stages and showcasing low and no alcohol wine options.
Tracy loves that the variety of the festival now reflects the variety of the attendees.
“We’ve been just delighted with the response to the Renwick venue - part of the excitement for this year was looking at how we could evolve the offering within the site,” she says,
“The day brings something for tourists who plan their NZ itinerary to attend, familiar faces catching up with friends and celebrating the last big hurrah before the business end of harvest, or locals proudly hosting out of town guests.”
Marlborough Sounds the scene of new book
PAULA HULBURT
Author Val Clifford fell in love with the Marlborough Sounds as a child, now its unique location features in her latest published work.
A Londoner by birth and now based in Australia, Val spent 20 years living in New Zealand and has a deep love of the Marlborough Sounds.
Speaking ahead of the launch of her new book, Play of Light on Water, Val’s second creative book explores the relationship between Ellen and Tom.
She uses a fictitious fishing village in the Sounds as a backdrop to her tale of two people finding refuge and healing themselves.
Val says that falling in love with the Sounds when she lived in New Zealand and writing about it is a wonderful excuse to keep returning.
Val’s background includes a life of education and women’s health research.
After years of formal research writing, she shifted her focus to memoir and creative writing
and has completed two books.
“Writing is a constant learning curve,” she says.
“Over the years I have published two academic books, a memoir and now a novel. Another two books are waiting for my attention to become a reality. I think writing has become an addiction,” Val says.
Her first book, a memoir, Fijian Shadows: Living through the Coup of 2000 covered two years working and living in Fiji when a coup erupted around her.
The book was Highly Commended in the Society of Women Writers NSW Non-Fiction Book Awards 2022.
The Picton Historical Society is delighted to invite the public to meet with Val and hear excerpts from her novel at Picton Heritage & Whaling Museum on February 8 at 3pm. Signed copies of the book will be available to purchase on the day.
For more information email info@pictonmuseum.co.nz
“From the plays, stories, poetry of my youth (all condemned to the wastepaper bin), through the research and academic writing required of a career in university teaching, to the memoir of my time in Fiji and now my novel, set in the Marlborough Sounds in New Zealand,
Writer Val Clifford will be at Picton Heritage & Whaling Museum to launch her new book which is based in the Marlborough Sounds. Photo: Supplied.
Wine Marlborough Association Deputy Chair and Marlborough Wine and Food Festival advisory committee member Tracy Johnston. Photo: William Woodworth.
BLENHEIM NOW OPEN
School feels ‘more isolated than ever’
MAIA HART
Local Democracy Reporter
A new jetty for Waitaria Bay will cost about $650,000 and construction is expected to start mid-2025, reports show.
The Marlborough District Council earlier this month announced the jetty, in Kenepuru, Marlborough Sounds, has been closed due to safety concerns as it had “deteriorated significantly” since its last inspection in mid-2023. The move has made the remote Waitaria Bay school feel “more isolated than ever”, principal Tineke Giddy says.
The main road to the school, Kenepuru Rd, still had temporary closures for roadworks despite reopening to the public in December, currently including daytime closures at the Onahau Rd intersection.
While none of the pupils were using the jetty to get to school at the moment, their relief teacher took
GARDENING
a water taxi to school each day.
They would need to be driven to and from the nearest jetty at Fish Bay, which Tineke says is about a 15-minute drive.
The new water taxi route could also add extra cost to the relief teacher’s commute, she says.
The water taxi had been subsidised while Kenepuru Rd was only open to homeowners during
repairs.
The Waitaria Bay jetty was damaged in the August 2022 storm after a landslide lifted the section of the jetty closest to land and shunted part of it forward.
Marlborough Roads transport recovery manager Steve Murrin said earlier this month the jetty was “well past its prime” and over the last 18 months its deteriora-
tion had “accelerated quickly.”
Defects included failed corbels (supports) and a loss of piles and bolted connections so the jetty was closed immediately.
“Unfortunately in certain conditions, such as rough seas, overloading or a vessel strike, these defects could cause a sudden collapse of the jetty,” Steve says.
An update on the situation was set to go before the council’s assets and services committee on Tuesday.
The agenda for that meeting says an insurance claim was settled for damage from the storm in late 2024.
Because of the age and condition of the jetty, the insurance settlement totalled $229,000, less than half of the replacement cost, estimated at $650,000.
Marlborough Road’s “jetties account” provided extra budget for the replacement.
Construction was expected to start mid-year, and take about
three months, according to the report.
However, a resource consent was needed first, which was applied for in September last year.
The application said the new jetty would be 31m long.
The existing floating pontoon and connecting aluminium gangway would be retained and attached to the new fixed jetty.
The floating jetty would be fixed in place by four piles. Consent for 15 years of use was also sought.
The council expected to have the resource consent settled in late February, according to the assets and services agenda.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Tips to keep your garden thriving during summer’s peak
ADRIENNE MATTHEWS
If you have a mixed garden like mine with fruit trees, vegetables, herbs, shrubs, roses, flowers and many trees, February can be stressful as it is generally the hottest month of the year.
Water restrictions can add to the anxiety as precious plants begin to wilt in the heat.
In order to avoid this stress, I have gradually covered most areas with a layer of thick, clean cardboard (you need to take off any plastic, tape or staples first) with straw on top.
Straw that hasn’t been sprayed with fungicide, insecticide or
herbicide is preferable so that the vibrant life of the millions of organisms that live in the soil below can continue to keep it healthy in order to benefit your plants.
Always keep a small space around the base of your plants clear so that you can still provide water and nutrition if need be.
Many weeds and spent plants can be used as mulch too.
Cut them up and mix them and they will break down over time and provide a good source of soil food. Just be careful to never put noxious weeds such as Jasmine, Asparagus Fern, Convolvulus, Oxalis or Ivy, to name a few, in your mulch mix as this will spell
trouble for your gardening future. Take them in sealed bags to the dump (not green waste) or burn during winter if permitted. Thick layers of wonderful, rich compost will also aid water retention and now is a good time to be seeing the terrific range of options from local suppliers like Centaland.
Always wear a mask when working with straw or compost to avoid breathing in the bacteria that lead to Legionnaires disease. Around 100 people a year are admitted to hospital in New Zealand with this dangerous form of pneumonia and between 10 and 25 percent die from it.
If you have plants, vegetables and fruit growing in pots like I do, you need to be extremely vigilant with watering.
I have had phenomenal success with beans and tomatoes in tubs this year but have needed to water them most days to keep up the production level.
Grey water from your washing machine can be a great source of the liquid stuff but unless you have an easy system to distribute it straight to your plants, carrying buckets in occasions of droughts has led to an increase in ACC claims for shoulder and arm injuries.
Regardless of whether you have
access to compost or not, many plants such as roses, citrus, vegetables and fruit trees need feeding.
Unless you are using a quality foliar fertiliser, avoid spraying the leaves to prevent fungal diseases. One of the most joyful parts of gardening is planning your next move.
Whether it is redesigning sections of your garden, saving seed, or beginning to raise plants or sow seed for winter crops, now is the time to get those tasks underway. February is a month for MRRP –Maintain, Repair, Replenish and Prepare.
The jetty was damaged in the August 2022 storm and has deteriorated quickly since. Photo: Maia Hart/Supplied.
SPORT
Erin trades four wheels for two
PETER JONES
She’s risen to the top ranks of her sport on four wheels, now Erin Green has set her sights on doing the same on two wheels.
The 19-year-old has been Marlborough’s leading inline skater for most of the past decade, winning a string of national titles, breaking records and representing her country at Oceania and world championships.
However, after attending the 2024 world inline skating champs in Italy in September, where she finished 11th in the onelap race and 14th in the 500m track event, Erin returned home with a brandnew plan.
alise her dreams.
“It is just that the opportunities up there are way better,” she explained.
Up north she will train as part of a hub development team, which sits under the Cycling NZ umbrella, allowing her access to the world-class facilities in the area.
She had dabbled in both road and track cycling for the past few years, participating in the Grape Ride and, more recently, racing for Marlborough at the national track champs.
While she enjoyed life on two wheels, her focus and training has been almost exclusively on skating.
“For the last three years I have been on and off the bike,” explained Erin, “now I want to immerse myself in [cycling].”
Part of that plan involves a geographical shift, with Erin relocating on Friday to Cambridge, the hub of New Zealand cycling, to give her a better chance to re-
The opportunity arose through her contact with another Marlborough athlete, former Olympic track cyclist Callum Saunders, who helps coach members of the Cambridge-based hub team.
“He mentioned [the Cambridge opportunity] to me after I got back from the skating worlds and I said, ‘hell yeah, I want to do that’.”
Over the past few months Erin has been working hard with Callum at Athletic Park, picking up tips from a man who has been there, done that on the international scene.
Their initial meeting was serendipitous.
“I had been doing some track [cycling] on and off with skating, so fortunately when I finally decided to make the move he
was returning from Europe. “He came back to Blenheim and said, ‘if you need coaching just let me know’, so I quickly replied, ‘hell, yes’. That’s how it came about. It was in November last year, so it has all happened pretty quickly. He’s an awesome coach.”
Like Callum, Erin is keen to focus on the keirin, a demanding
discipline over six laps (1500m) involving six riders who start behind a motorized pacer and sprint against each other over the last three laps.
Although she lists the keirin as her favourite event, she is also keen to try out the kilo time trial and the sprint races, both individual and team.
Her first chance to dip her foot in the waters of top-level track cycling comes at the Oceania champs in Brisbane during early February, where she will wear Marlborough colours and race in the elite grade.
“This will be my first international event. We are going to do a development team sprint over there,” she said, “with a couple of girls from up north. It will be a big step up.
“I will be up against people like [double Olympic champion] Ellesse Andrews so really I will be just feeling the water, looking for personal bests and to go from there.”
Erin will not be short of company and elite advice in Cambridge, sharing accommodation with Nelson’s Shaane Fulton, another member of the
high-performing NZ Olympic women’s track team.
While skating and cycling are obviously quite different sporting disciplines, Erin says her time on four wheels has, “set me up so well”.
“The cross training is insane … all the same muscles, there are so many similarities. Plus, I have experienced top-level competition, so race days become a lot easier … even the race styles. I think I like the keirin so much because it is so similar to a skating race, it is all about watching people, knowing when to go, stuff like that.”
Although she is fully committed to seeing how far she can go as a track cyclist, Erin has not totally ruled out getting her skates on some time in the future.
“It is the end of the competitive skating … for now anyway, although it is always good to get back out on my skates every now and then.
“But I got as far as I wanted to with [my skating] and I feel now there is a lot more opportunities in cycling. I can see a much clearer pathway with cycling than what skating was going to give me.
“So, I thought that’s where I want to go now. It’s fresh and it’s exciting … there’s that element of it being such a new thing, all the learning, I just love it.
“I always want to be involved in sport,” she added, “it was just a matter of which one.”
Erin Green during a training session at Athletic Park.
Photo: Peter Jones.
The Marlborough women’s team gather around after the fall of another Nelson wicket. Photo Shuttersport.
Women rep cricketers win one, lose one
PETER JONES
The Marlborough and Nelson women’s cricket rep sides shared the honours across two T20 matches played in Nelson on Sunday. The sides were playing for the newly-minted Hiwa-i-teRangi Trophy, with the Nelson Nyxons having claimed first blood with a four-wicket victory in the first game at Horton Park in early November.
Saxton Oval on Sunday, winning the opening T20 match by eight wickets.
After electing to bowl, the visiting side held a potent Nelson batting line-up to 91-6 at the conclusion of their 20 overs.
Stella Cornelius claimed 3-24 from her four-over spell, Olivia Roseingrave picked up 1-5 from her allocation while Eva Davey grabbed 1-14 from four.
Marlborough controlled the run chase superbly, reaching
Carly Englefield, 30 not out from 44, defied the Nelson attack in the early stages while Eden Pettigrew remained undefeated on 20 from 18 when the target was reached.
The second match was also low-scoring, Marlborough unable to make the best of a strong start with the bat.
This time Nelson amassed 113-6 from their 20 overs, CD rep Kate Gaging scoring 57 from 55 balls. Cornelius, 2-12 from three, bowled well, along with Roseingrave and Davey who both picked up a wicket.
Englefield, 17 from 16, and Pania Dallarossa kicked off Marlbor-
ough’s reply with an opening stand of 34, but after they departed wickets fell regularly, and in clumps.
Gaging, 3-18 from four, was the chief destroyer as the visitors came up well short, scoring just 88-9 when the match concluded.
The final match on the series, a 40-over affair, takes place in Nelson on Sunday February 16 after which the destination of the trophy will be decided.
The Marlborough women’s side: Eden Pettigrew, Carly Englefield, Eva Davey, Olivia Roseingrave, Stella Cornelius, Charlotte Brooke-Taylor, Fenella Cooney, Jody Klempel, Tyler O’Donnell, Filippa Palm, Vicky Underwood, Pania Dallarossa.
Powering up
The Rotoiti Powerboat Club’s 2025 regatta is set to be “bigger and better than ever” according to event organisers. The roar of powerboats will resonate across the National Park waters of Lake Rotoiti on Saturday and Sunday, March 8-9. Club spokesman Joe Blakiston says there will be a lot of interest in the GP Hydroplane division, with the final round of the Hydro Thunder series being held at the event and promising thrilling viewing. South Island hopes rest with Christchurch-based Raymond Hart in Thunderstruck, the round two winner, and Jason Haggerty from Te Anau, in Lady Liz. A full schedule of races is scheduled, from the popular clubman class to the flat bottom and tunnel hull races and the Formula 1 Series final round. Besides the on-water action, on each day a fighter plane display from the Blenheim-based Yak 3 “Steadfast “will take place in the lunch break.
Athletic success
Marlborough’s athletes have competed out of town recently, with considerable success. At the Cooks Classic in Wanganui, both James Hansen and DJ Arbuckle recorded personal bests. James finished second in the 400m hurdles in a time of 53.90, a new PB, and won the 400m final in 50.01, a season’s best. DJ’s high jump PB of 2.02m placed him fifth in an event won by Olympic champion Hamish Kerr. (2.19m). Soon after, DJ finished seventh at the Capital Classic with a jump of 1.94m. Meanwhile the Masters athletes took part in the South Island Masters at Ngā Puna Wai Sports Hub. The local stand-out was Remy Le Brun who broke two South Island Masters records in the M35 Age Group, subject to ratification. He registered a time of 11.69 for the 100m and 23.91 for the 200m.
Town v Country cricket
Ascendancy in the on-going senior cricket Town v Country series continues to fluctuate. Last week Country claimed a solid victory, this weekend Town were back on top.
At Horton Park on Saturday, Town defended a low total superbly, winning by nine runs. Electing to bat first, Town scraped their way to a mediocre total of 144 before being dismissed in the 32nd over. They began promisingly, openers Aiden Conroy and Sam Young combining for a 31-run partnership. Young went on to topscore with 44 from 58 balls but had little help as wickets fell regularly. Late in the innings Zariab Kakaria hit 25 from 27 balls, combining in a valuable partnership of 30 with Baxter Croad to help Town put together a small total, but one they could bowl at.
Eden Pettigrew led the way with the ball, taking 4-49 from nine overs, while James Bell snared 3-10 from 5.2 and Sukh Aulakh bagged 2-39 from 10. In reply, Country quickly slumped to 3-21 before Piers Landon-Lane, 30 from 38, and Aulakh, 36 from 78, combined for a 42-run partnership. When Landon-Lane went, James Bell, 26 from 35, joined Aulakh and the pair batted sensibly to take the score through to 1175 after 31 overs, their side seemingly in control of proceedings, needing just 28 runs from 19 overs with five wickets in hand. However, the re-introduction of Andrew McCaa to the bowling crease turned the match on its head. Within five overs he had claimed the remaining five Country wickets for the addition of 18 runs. He finished with 5-22 from eight, leaving the Country side to rue a match they dominated for most of the afternoon.
Griffin Carter took 2-25 from his 10 overs, while Kakaria picked up 2-6 from five early overs.
Young athletes impress at Colgate Games
PETER JONES
Marlborough junior athletics is in fine fettle, underlined by a hefty swag of precious metal and pennants at the recent Colgate Games. Twenty-eight Marlborough athletes travelled south to attend the Games, staged from January 17-19 at Nga Puna Wai in Christchurch. Their ages ranged from 7-14, with both the older and younger brigades turning in top performances against tough opposition.
achieved numerous pennants and a string of personal bests.
At their first Colgate Games were seven-year-olds Louie Gaudin (1st 200m, 2nd 60m; 3rd long jump; 1st 7mixed relay) Tahn Heng (1st discus, 1st long jump, 1st 7mixed relay, 2nd shot put) Mackenzie Manu (1st 100m, 2nd 60m, 1st long jump, 1st 7 mixed relay) and Lottie Norton (1st 60m, 1st 200m, 1st 7 mixed relay, 2nd discus, 2nd long jump).
In the 11 girls section Marlborough excelled, Georgie Griffiths claiming gold in the high jump, Honor McKenzie winning the 800m and 1500m double, while the 4x100m relay team (Kobe Smidt-Robinson, Honor, Emily Ker and Greta Foote) also prevailed. Honor also came third in the 400m. Greta bagged silver in the 100m and bronze in the 200m. Alyssa Haronga also claimed bronze, in the 13 girls’ high jump. In the 14 girls section Brooke Goodsir came second in the high jump, Leia Shaw also second, in the 400m, while the 4x100m relay team of Chloe Cook, McKenzie Haronga, Brooke and Leia Shaw finished third.
The younger crew, aged 7-9,
In the eights Mackenzie Wallace finished 3rd in the 200m and 60m and was part of the winning 9G relay team. Tommy Campbell was second in the discus in the 9 boys’ section. Ollie Gaudin (9B) was second in the long jump and 60m and won the 200m. Denver Hart, also 9B, was third in the long jump and second in the shot put.
In the 9 girls’ group, Reeva Macdonald won the long jump and 200m, came second in the discus and shot put, third in the 100m and won the 9G relay. Taylor Rayner (9G) won the shot put and discus, was second in the long jump, third in the 200m and first in the 9G relay. Mila Scott (9G) won the 100 and 200m, was second in the long jump and part of the winning relay team. The 2026 Colgate Games will be held in Nelson in January.
FREE RENTAL PROPERTY HEALTHY HOMES CHECK
Marlborough’s Brooklyn Croquet Club recently played host to the national GC+3 golf croquet tournament. Players came from far and wide, including locals David Grigg (bottom right), Sam Robinson (top left), and Michael Guillemot (top right) from the Blenheim Croquet Club, plus Peter Burt (bottom left) from the Brooklyn club.
For
While compact and light in transit, the Nomad 1300 unfolds to reveal an impressive mattress space of 2050 x 1600mm. That’s larger than your standard queen size bed!
• Compact transit size and weight makes it perfect for installation on ute canopies and small wagons.
• A mattress larger than your standard queen size bed means room to move
• The generous 1200mm internal height allows for plenty of room to sit up and allows a sensible use of the tent for rainy day refuge.
• The skylight roof window allows for the ultimate stargazing experience.
The Marlborough contingent at the Colgate Games in Christchurch. Photo supplied.
Georgie Griffiths won the 11 girls’ high jump.
TRADES + SERVICES
BROWN Pamela (née Weston):
On Tuesday December 10, 2024, peacefully at Hospice Marlborough. In her 97th year. Cherished wife of the late Fred, mother of Kevin, the late Gary, and Jill. Mother-in-law of Dagmar and Greg. Cherished Nanny of Roman, the late Anya, Devon, Taylor and Callum. Great Nanny of Hunter and Zoe. Sister and sister-in-law of Derek and Kay Weston, Jackie and the late Athol Smart, and the late Lola and Bob Jurgensen (USA). A loved aunty to the late Karen Weston; Michelle Weston and nieces and nephews in USA, Kit Lethby and nieces and nephews in UK and Australia. Also loved by many of her friends at St Christopher’s Church and the Redwoodtown/Blenheim community. A memorial service to celebrate Pam’s long and joyful life will be held St Christopher’s Anglican Church, Weld Street, at 1.00pm on Monday, February 10. Messages may be sent to 67A Cleghorn Street, Blenheim 7201 and in lieu of flowers a donation to Hospice Marlborough would be appreciated and may be made online to 03-13690365207-00 Ref. BROWN
Respectfully cared for by Geoffrey T Sowman FDANZ Phone (03) 578 4719 www.sowmans.co.nz
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Passed away on 23rd January 2025, aged 93, at Ashwood Retirement Village. Wife of the late Nick Davies. She was a loving Mother and Mother-in-Law to Craig and Di, Coral and Shane, Arron and Jenny. Beloved Grandmother to Jade Davies and Tiffany McLeod. Great Grandmother to Jordan, Taylah, Mela, Eva, Cooper and Mackenzie. She will be sadly missed by all. At peace now. Messages can be sent to 1/22 Lane Street, Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A private cremation has taken place.
STAGG: Dorothy (Dot) Freda (née Morgan) 15.3.1948 - 29.01.2025
Dot passed away peacefully after a short illness. Dearly loved wife of the late Kevin. Loved mother and motherin-law of Denise and Don French, Clinton and Kellie, loved Nana of Bradley, Morgan & Michael; Ryan & Ella and Gemma. Loved companion to Izzy the dog. A heartfelt thanks to Wairau Hospital ED, the inpatient unit, and hospice staff. Messages to the Stagg Family, 123A Weld Street, Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
In accordance with Dot’s wishes, a private funeral has been held.
Locally Family Owned - Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004 www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
NICOLL, David Henry (Dave): DAVIES: Thirza
