stuart.smithmp@parliament.govt.nz
Wednesday 8 January 2025
Bill of health for freed falcon
PAULA HULBURT
A critically injured falcon who almost died after smashing into a window has been released into the wild.
Adult male falcon Bill, needed around the clock care after his accident in May.
Kārearea Falcon Trust Manager
Holly Turner got a call from the Clifford family who found Bill on Old Renwick Road and rescued him. And as he was set free, the family, plus other Trust supporters and friends, were there to watch him as he began his next adventure.
Holly says Bill had broken the tip of his beak off and was suffering
from a concussion
“He was in critical condition and housed in an ICU unit with around the clock care to stabilise him.
“Due to his broken and now blunt beak, Bill needed all his food to be chopped up into small bits, he was not able to rip or tear into meat.”
Bill’s beak began to regrow slowly, but some parts grew faster than others, leading to an overbite.
To remedy this, Holly and Trustee Phil Bradfield gave Bill regular beak manicures.
“Using a small handheld Dremel, we were able to carefully reshape and trim his beak into a more natural shape as it regrew.
“A hood was used during these procedures to keep him calm,” says Holly.
Released from the end of Selmes Road by the Wairau River stop bank on 18 December, Bill flew into a nearby tree to get his bearings.
MAKING A SPLASH: Friends Meila Gardiner, 11, Harriet Cooke, 11, and Leon Cooke, 9, made
outdoor pool at Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000. Photo: Paula Hulburt.
Competitive vibe set aside at festival
With the Marlborough Wine and Food Festival approaching, William Woodworth continues his series of chats with those who help make it special. Here he catches up with Giesen’s Export Sales Manager, Roscoe Johanson.
Throngs of ticket holders will be at this year’s Food and Wine Festival but behind the scenes, it’s a chance for the industry to come together and celebrate.
Since 2012, Roscoe Johanson has seen the Marlborough Wine and Food Festival grow and evolve.
And as much as he enjoys sharing Giesen’s story with anyone he meets, Roscoe says it’s the shared ambition of stallholders which makes the day.
“The Wine and Food Festival shows how healthy and collaborative Marlborough’s wine and food industry is - we forget about being competitors and make a great event,” he says.
“It’s an opportunity to highlight winemaking and viticultural teams, learn about the people and stories behind bottles.
“Whether it’s with Giesen or any
other stand, the festival team create a fantastic all-round culinary experience, pulling big name chefs to work local produce and getting some fantastic musical acts for dancing later.”
Roscoe’s key role is to make the Giesen stand as big, bright and popular as possible – with plenty of planning going into each year’s showcase.
“We’ve been liaising with what concepts the stand will take with marketing and builders, and as we get closer, we’re catching up more, deciding on wines we show, and building a run sheet for the day - it’s quite a big job.”
“The team sets up Friday afternoon, and it’s an early morning Saturday on site - for me, I’m hosting international guests through the day.
“That evening we catch up on the stand, have a well-earned relaxed barbecue and a glass of wine, look for little improvements in offerings, sustainability, messaging and catchments, and we’re back on the train again.”
Roscoe says branching into new opportunities is part and parcel of being at the festival, whether on site or further afield.
“My favourite moment was hav-
ing a live Festival crossover on one of Australia’s key TV channels a few years ago, because Australia is such an important market for Marlborough. We really pushed the region as a whole into millions of homes with great flow-on effects for suppliers.
“Zero or low-alcohol wines will be a big focus for us this year –
we’ll be doing a low alcohol wine masterclass for the first time which will be exciting, but still offering right through our range.
“We need to adapt to what’s happening, and the whole zero or low alcohol category has evolved so fast regulations haven’t really kept up – it makes challenges, yet I’m excited to see where it goes.”
Flight of freedom for Bill
FROM PAGE 1
“He was promptly swooped by a tūī, then took off over the tops of the poplar trees,” Holly says. “About 20 minutes later a few members of the group saw him chasing a small bird through a gap in the trees and hearing him “kekking”.
Trustees, Iwi tangatu whenua, Trust sponsors and the family who rescued Bill, and “Adopt A Falcon” supporters of Bill, and DOC staff were invited to the release day.
The Blenheim Natural Learners Co-operative had adopted Bill at Silver level and their homeschool primary aged group
of around 20 were also at the release.
Bill has been banded by Department of Conservation Senior Biodiversity Ranger Patrick Cowe. Bill’s unique identification bands are silver: H-36770 / and a yellow band with large text “F42”.
Holly says the Trust are relaying on the public’s help to monitor Bill’s progress.
“If you spot Bill or other kārearea we love to receive sightings and photos from the community,” she says. Email office@kareareafalcon.org
The Trust relies entirely on sponsorship, grants, donations, and community support to carry out its work for this bird.
Kārearea Falcon Trust trustee Phil Bradfield with Bill just prior to his release.
Photo: Andy Frost.
Giesen’s Export Sales Manager, Roscoe Johanson. Photo: William Woodworth.
Stranded travellers back on the move across the Strait
PAULA HULBURT
Stranded ferry passengers are sailing across the Cook Strait again as improving weather eases rough sea conditions.
Hundreds of people had their travel plans thrown into chaos as strong winds caused huge seas over the weekend.
Both Picton and Blenheim saw an influx of visitors as travellers were left high and dry.
Raupo Café & Restaurant manager Jade Davies says passengers with cars made their way into Blenheim in a bid to kill time.
“We were a lot busier, with about 30 per cent more customers. We were at our 200 capacity several times.
“Everyone was good-natured, they were feeling disrupted but accepting about the delays. People understood that it [the delay] was beyond anyone’s control.
“We had a lot of extra families in which was great for business.”
Cook Strait ferry passengers face further disruptions after strong winds and swells cancelled weekend sailings. Photo Mark Mitchell/ Courtesy of New Zealand Herald.
Destination Marlborough general manager Tracey Green says while the delays were frustrating to passengers, there was a silver lining.
In Picton hundreds of passengers made the most of the shops and cafes.
“Delays are always challenging at this time of year.
“Picton is a tourist town, and we know that with disruptions there is a silver lining for local businesses.
“Much of the frustration for travellers is that it’s beautiful in Picton and they don’t understand why the ferries
aren’t going due to conditions in the Cook Strait.
“However, that silver lining has also meant many international visitors have seen more of Marlborough and anyone looking for guidance are more than welcome to visit our isites.”
Sailing resumed yesterday afternoon from Wellington at 3pm. Queuing passengers were given no guarantee the ferry would leave but were advised to show up just in case.
There were no new alerts on either the Interislander of Bluebridge websites yesterday.
Two sections of watermain in Blenheim streets are to be replaced.
Work to replace ageing infrastructure in Francis Street and Lakings Road is scheduled to start 13 January, Council’s 3 Waters Project Engineer Graeme Jackson says. “The new bigger watermain pipes
will provide better water flows, ensure future resilience, and replaces the ageing pipes,” he says.
The $450,000 contract for Francis Street watermain upgrade has been awarded to Simcox Construction Ltd and work is planned in two phases to reduce disruption.
Destination Marlborough’s Tracey Green
Silk Road splendour
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
A glimpse into Silk Road art made its way to Marlborough thanks to the collaborative efforts of art lovers and the local Chinese community.
The Dunhuang Art Exhibition brought seventeen replica murals and sculptures from the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for five days of display at the Marlborough Art Gallery.
The caves near the ancient Silk Road city of Dunhuang hold more than 45,000 sqm of murals and over 2,000 painted sculptures dating from 366 A.D. Many people from across Marlborough took the chance to see the art across the five-day display.
The closing ceremony, accompanied by traditional Gansu Province music and dance, was attended by Mayor Nadine Taylor, Consul General of China in Christchurch Ying He, Chinese Embassy Cultural Secretary in New Zealand Linan Wang, China Culture Centre Wellington director Tong Xu, Marlborough District Councillor Deborah Dalliessi, Marlborough Multicultural Center’s Margaret Western, and Art Gallery director
Cressida Bishop.
“I thank the Marlborough Library and the local Chinese community for their efforts in hosting this exhibition, and I hope the unique cultural and artistic charm of Dunhuang promotes further cultural exchanges,” says Consul He.
Mayor Taylor welcomed expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to provide Marlborough residents with the unique
art experience of the Dunhuang Art Exhibition.
Blenheim’s Bridget Omen, one of the visitors, enjoyed the artistic styles.
She shared that her mother, Gabrielle Hope, who passed away in 1962, was a well-known New Zealand artist who used Chinese brushes to paint.
“It is so good to see that Marlborough embrace multicultural cultures - it creates the environ-
ment for people keeping their own culture while embracing Marlborough and contributing to the society,” says New Zealand Chinese Association Marlborough’s Xuemei Zhang.
Xuemei and Marlborough Library’s Duncan MacKenzie, thanked the Chinese Consulate in Christchurch, the China Cultural Centre Wellington, and library staff and volunteers for their assistance.
News in brief
New Year’s Honours: Congratulations to former councillor Cynthia Brooks, theatre director Pam Logan and new council chief executive John Boswell for their achievements in gaining New Year’s honours Retired major General John Boswell has been made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit, Pam was awarded the King’s Service Medal for her work in local theatre and Cynthia a King’s Service Medal, for her contribution to local government and historical research.
Veteran vehicles: Waitangi Day at Brayshaw Park will be full of some of New Zealand’s oldest vehicles as the Marlborough Vintage Car Club hosts the National Vintage Car Club Veteran Rally from the 5th to 8th of February. The National Rally will include the Waitangi Day display at Brayshaw Park, alongside Vintage vehicle rally’s around the region throughout the four day event.
Garden glory: Seymour Square in Blenheim has achieved 4-star status as a Garden of Significance. NZ Gardens Trust Garden Assessment Award is recognition for the council’s highly skilled garden team, led by Brad Moloney, says mayor Nadine Taylor.
PLUMBINGROOFINGDRAINAGE GAS
Linan Wang, Tong Xu, Yu Zhu, Xuemei Zhang, Ying He, Deborah Delliessi, Neil Henry, Nadine Taylor, Nicola Neilson, and Cressida Bishop at the Dunhuang Art Exhibition closing ceremony.
Fire threat as ban remains
A complete fire ban is still in force across Marlborough South despite cooler temperatures.
A prohibited fire seasons remains in place meaning no outdoor fires are allowed, and all fire permits are revoked as temperatures start to rise again.
This includes south of the Wairau River, as far as the boundary with Canterbury, and includes the rest of Cloudy Bay/Te Koko-o-Kupe up to Rarangi.
It also includes Department of Conservation land, but not the Ministry of Defence land at Woodbourne.
Nelson-Marlborough District Manager Grant Haywood says the hot, dry and windy weather over the last few weeks means there is still a very high fire danger in the district.
“In these conditions, with a lot of dry vegetation around, fires can start and spread very easily, and are then extremely difficult to contain,” he says. “We’re putting a prohibited fire season in place for this part of Marlborough as a necessary step in reducing the risk of starting wildfires.”
Grant asks people to avoid any activity that produces heat or sparks
in dry areas, such as welding, grinding, mowing lawns, or parking vehicles in long dry grass.
“If you want to know the fire safety risks around what you’re doing, there is good advice and guidance at checkitsalright.nz,” he says.
“The website can also tell you what the fire restrictions are for your exact location.
Metservice are forecasting lower than average temperatures for the rest of the week, with a high of just 20 degrees expected on Sunday and Monday. Rain is predicted for Wednesday and Saturday.
Lifejacket upgrades a priority
A bid to help keep people safe at sea has sparked a bid by coastguard staff to offer a discount on new lifejackets.
While people take good care of their boats and fishing rods, less care is often taken for lifejackets aboard boats.
Avid boaties Richard Barr and Shane Williamson of the New Zealand Coastguard Old4New programme believe people need to step up and do better.
More than 22,000 lifejackets have been traded in over the past 10 years as part of the scheme’s efforts to upgrade New Zealand’s
water safety equipment.
Richard and Shane visited Blenheim and Picton on Monday as part of the nationwide roadshow replacing old, ineffective lifejackets with new Hutchwilco replacements at a discount.
“We’ve both spent much of our lives on the water which is really why we wanted to get behind the Old4New campaign,” Richard says.
“It’s not just about the lifejackets though, but the general care and respect needed for any water activities.”
Marlborough boasts 1800km of
coastline and is a popular hotspot for locals and tourists to enjoy water activities.
“It’s so important that people aboard their boats not only have good quality lifejackets, but enough for all on board and in the right sizes and types for who’s aboard and what they’re doing on the water,” Shane explains.
“It’s one thing to look after the boat and the gear you use on the water, but personal safety has to be maintained just as well as fishing gear – so it’s not just the lifejackets, but an education mission too.”
Shane Williamson of the Coastguard Old4New lifejacket scheme has been touring the country ensuring people update their most crucial equipment aboard. Photo: William Woodworth.
Complete your summer with the
There’s so much to do in the Top of the South this summer and you’ll find it all in the Top of the South Summer Guide, available to be picked up FREE from businesses and holiday hot spots across the region.
Pipes no longer calling as project completed
Six years and $6million dollars have seen Renwick’s aged asbestos cement water pipes replaced.
New PVC pipelines has been completed, marking the end of a mammoth project by Marlborough District Council.
And residents are getting a big vote of thanks for their patience.
Council’s Infrastructure Projects Engineer Brett Walker thanked residents for their patience during the past six years as various stages were completed.
“It’s been a $6M project that’s taken place with significant disruptions to residents as streets were excavated to accommodate the replacement of 9km of pipelines – that’s all finished now,” he says.
The infrastructure upgrade began in 2018 following as aging pipes were found to leak and were prone to failure.
The pipeline replacements coupled with the recent introduction
of water metering in Renwick has provided water saving efficiencies of 30 to 50 per cent.
The new pipelines will also significantly reduce the frequency of watermain failures.
Snapchat founder’s superyacht seen in Sounds
PAULA HULBURT
Snapchat co-founder Evan Spiegel’s luxury superyacht has been spotted in the Marlborough Sounds.
Two hundred-million-dollar US superyacht Bliss was seen anchored offshore in Resolution Bay just before New Year’s Eve.
The three deck luxury launch was then seen in the waters off of Golden Bay ear-
lier this week.
While there was no sign of the social messaging app mogul or his wife, Australian Supermodel Miranda Kerr, staff on board waved to other boaties.
Built in 2021, Bliss, which costs an estimated 20 million a year to run, can comfortably accommodate 14 passengers and 20 crew.
The 95-metre-long yacht was anchored an hour’s boat
ride away from Picton, sheltering near the shore. Spiegel, 34, co-founded Snapchat with Bobby Murphy in 2011 while he was studying at Stanford University. He met the renowned Victoria’s Secret model at a gala dinner at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City and the pair married in 2017.
The couple have three children together.
New PVC pipelines being installed in Renwick replacing ageing asbestos cement ones. Photo: Marlborough District Council.
Superyacht Bliss was anchored off Resolution Bay in the Marlborough Sounds.
Photo: Anna Simpson/Marlborough Weekly.
Festival alcohol ban to return, year-round Renwick ban floated
MAIA HART
LDR REPORTER
An alcohol ban will return for the streets of Renwick during next year’s Marlborough Wine & Food Festival and there’s talks of the ban becoming permanent.
The ban was first launched at the 2024 festival in February after a request from police.
At a full council meeting on December 12, solicitor Claudia Mark talked the council through a renewal of its Alcohol Control Bylaw which had recently been reviewed.
The review found the bylaw was the best way to deal with alcohol consumption in public places, Mark said, as there were already permanent alcohol bans for central Blenheim and Picton.
“It has been very effective, and regulated people’s behaviour to address problems of crime, disorder [and] incidents of harm,” she said.
Claudia said police had been in contact with the council about extending the ban to Renwick.
“We have agreed to open that conversation after the summer period, because it’s too busy for them to have that conversation now and we need that bylaw in place now,” she said.
Wairau-Awatere ward councillor
Scott Adams said he was aware of the Renwick concerns, particularly at the Renwick Domain skate park where people often left empty bottles and cans around.
“It is a bit of a concern for the community out there,” he said.
The full council agreed to approve the bylaw, which had a 10-year term. Should conversations with police lead to an amendment in the bylaw to allow for a Renwick ban, the council would consult
with the community.
The bylaw did not extend to Renwick, so the council would need to publicly notify the temporary alcohol ban for the 2025 festival.
The ban, on Inkerman, Uxbridge and Alma streets, had been requested by police after festival-goers ended up at the Woodbourne Tavern in 2023, for an event coinciding with the festival that was dubbed an “after party”.
Police told the Marlborough District Council that people “eject-
ed” from that event met up with others and congregated on the footpath, and were “generally uncooperative”.
The ban would run from 6am on Saturday, February 8, until 6am on February 9.
The council earlier this year also agreed to have another look at drafting a local alcohol policy.
The council first began drafting a local alcohol policy (LAP) in 2013, but in 2014, the Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Au-
thority recommended councils halt their development, because some were being appealed by “large players”.
At an environment and planning committee meeting in July, the council’s environmental health officer Karen Winter told councillors that recent changes to the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act removed the ability for an LAP to be appealed.
“If we go through special consultative procedure in the right way, there is no appeal option now for some of those large players to basically tie us up in legal costs.”
A local alcohol policy applied to on-licence premises, where alcohol was consumed on-site, as well as off licences, where alcohol was sold for consumption elsewhere, such as a liquor store.
It could include rules on location, such as restricting bottle stores from opening near schools and churches or opening in high deprivation areas.
The draft had not yet been brought to the council.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
New citizens welcomed at milestone ceremony
Twenty-seven people from 12 countries are now officially Marlborough’s newest citizens.
People from Finland, UK, USA, Kiribati, Philippines, Ireland, South Africa, Germany, Tonga, Vietnam, Uruguay and India are among the region’s newest additions.
Marlborough mayor Nadine Taylor officially welcomed them all to the region in a special ceremony just before Christmas.
The ceremony marks an important
milestone in their lives, she said.
“Your decision to apply for citizenship was no doubt made after very careful consideration and is a commitment to your future.
“It is not a rejection of your past but in future your first loyalty will be to New Zealand.”
Following the Mayor’s opening address and the presentation of certificates, Council’s waiata group performed for the new citizens and their friends and families.
Helicopters in action at the Marlborough Wine & Food Festival at Renwick Domain in 2024. Photo: Anthony Phelps.
Marlborough’s newest citizens are now official after an official welcome at Marlborough District Council Chambers. Photo: Marlborough District Council.
Out & About
3. Rosey Bristow and Dianne Bopp
4. Brenda and Robert Burr
5. Rose Cameron and Trish Landers
7. Terry, Ella and Lynley Sowman
8. Dave Murray, Nigel Fluit, Luke and Sam Hansby
Blenheim Probus Club visit to Te Rawa in December
1. Ian and Anne Mitchell
2. Anne Mitchell, Pat Daw, Graham Daw
Photos: Brian Nicholas
Rapaura tennis tournament
Photos: Anna Simpson
6. Max Sowman and Liam Jones
Restaurant and Bar
SPORT
Young fighter steps out of comfort zone
PETER JONES
He may be just 19 years of age, but Vitor Lopes has put the country’s mixed martial arts community on notice after a couple of stunning performances late last year. The teenager, an accomplished Brazilian jiu-jitsu exponent with a string of national titles to his name, decided to up the ante, entering a couple of high-profile national amateur MMA events.
First up was the annual Beatdown 7 eight-fighter elimination tournament in Hamilton, where Vitor took on three different welterweight opponents on the same night, all more experienced, and beat them all.
He followed up with victory in the Canterbury Takedown event, his one fight a straight final.
He now boasts a 4-0 record from his first foray into the hugely popular sport of MMA, a far cry from Brazilian jiu-jitsu which he was first introduced to aged five at his father Marcelo Lopes’ gym in Blenheim, already home to three world champions.
So, after so much success at the latter, why the change to MMA?
“I just wanted to get outside my comfort zone,” explained Vitor.
“You can combine all the martial arts, so there’s always more to learn, which gets me excited to do it.”
Given the step up to a new discipline, and against such seasoned operators, most fighters would have been a little daunted and Vitor says he was no exception.
“Every fighter is a little bit scared before they get in the cage or the ring … but if you just train hard, you get more confidence. If you’re just more prepared, you’ll per-
form better under that pressure.
“Everyone feels that pressure … you’re scared of being knocked out or something and getting hurt, but it’s part of the game.
That’s why I like it … also the fact that not many people want to do it. That’s why it is so exciting.”
Exciting it may have been, but Vitor’s first MMA fight night was also a test of the young man’s mental and physical prowess.
“Having three fights on one night was pretty challenging, yeah … it took a lot of focus.
“I was pretty confident in my grappling, in my jiu-jitsu … I thought I would be able to dominate in that field. But still, there’s always that, you know, that thing in the back of your head saying, oh, it could go another way, you know?”
Amateur MMA rules differ from
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professional guidelines in that no elbow or knee strikes are allowed, but Vitor says “everything else is allowed … like punching in the face, kicking the face, ground and pound”.
“So, yeah, you can still get seriously injured, but I was pretty confident going in. It was tough though, because after the first fight you get an adrenaline dump, then you go backstage, cool yourself down, then you have to warm back up again, get that adrenaline up, and then after the second fight, another adrenaline dump, go back stage, recover, focus, and then come up with different game plan for the other fighter.
“By the last fight, it was the last fight of the night, around midnight, so I had to take some energy drinks to keep me focused and put some caffeine in the body.”
Despite his rookie MMA status Vitor got the job done in the final, taking down the hometown favourite four times and winning a unanimous decision, providing the highlight of his fighting career so far. “I felt really good because everyone back home was watching, you know, my students, friends and family were watching on the live stream.”
Closer at hand was the man who has guided his career so far. Dad Marcelo was in the corner, shouting encouragement, often in Portuguese.
Marcelo admits he had reservations about his teenaged son stepping into the MMA arena, as did the Hamilton event promoter Carlo Meister, a former pupil of Marcelo’s.
However, a gruelling workout for Vitor against four kickboxers in
Christchurch convinced Marcelo that his protege was ready, and he persuaded Meister that he need not worry about the young man’s safety.
As it turned out, the promoter may have been better placed worrying about the health of the other seven fighters.
Vitor says he has never worked so hard in his life in the lead up to the event, a fact reinforced by his coach.
“I told him, look, people want to do it, but they don’t want to pay the price,” said Marcelo.
“He paid the price and that’s what happened. He fought three of four times but he could have fought 10 times. He is way better prepared physically because we have been just doing repetition here for hours.”
Having tasted success, Vitor is keen for more fights in New Zealand before a possible trip to a major tournament in Melbourne. A shot at the professional ranks is also a long-term goal for the rising star.
“If I just keep improving, keep getting better and get more experience at amateur level, then I can hopefully start a new journey at the professional level.”
Vitor does not have to look far for inspiration. His father and mentor is a former champion with a 3-0 MMA record, while MMA legends such as George St-Pierre and Anderson Silva are athletes he admires.
“Guys like that, they really inspire me … I just hope to do the same with the younger generation. I just want to show them that it’s possible to achieve their goals, to step out of their comfort zone, work hard and succeed.”
Jade takes centre stage in Auckland
PETER JONES
Former Marlborough tennis star Jade Otway got a chance to show her skills on Centre Court at the ASB Classic women’s tennis tournament in Auckland last week.
Jade and Kiwi partner Monique Barry reached the quarterfinals of the prestigious event, before losing 6-0, 6-3 to number two seeds Jiang Xinyi and Wu Fang-Hsien on Wednesday night.
After a memorable 6-3, 3-6, 10-4 victory in their first-round match over Nao Hibino and Oksana Kalashnikova, they weren’t able to record another upset victory, but kept battling to the end in the Sky Sport televised encounter.
The scoreline didn’t reflect the balance of the match, with Jiang from China and Chinese Taipei’s Wu winning the vast majority of the sudden death deuce points.
“We had great fun, a level that we haven’t played
at regularly, and it’s always an honour to be on Centre Court and play that level,” Jade said.
“It was an honour to do it with Monique and not the result we wanted, but we had fun, and we gave it our all.”
Jade said there was disappointment at their run at the ASB Classic coming to an end, but in time they’ll be able to take confidence from making it to the quarterfinals of a WTA tournament.
“The first set was a little tough, just like adjusting to the level and the atmosphere,” she said.
“But we got into it in the second set and definitely had some opportunities, which is disappointing right now, but it’s also exciting knowing we had those opportunities and, we can play at that level.”
Jade, who played in the wildcard playoff tournament just before Christmas, says she hopes to play doubles with Monique more once she finishes up at TCU in the States later this year.
Vitor Lopes, left, in action during his MMA debut. Photo: Supplied.
A touch of magic
The Marlborough junior touch finals were staged at Lansdowne Park late last year, the competition finale involving nearly 100 teams. Placings were decided across four grades - year 3-4 and year 5-6 mixed, plus year 7-8 girls and boys – with plenty of skill on show as the region’s younger brigade enjoyed a final hit out in 2024. Photos: Peter Jones.
New venue, same enjoyment, as doubles decided
PETER JONES
The venue may have changed, but enthusiasm levels remained high as the 46th Wairau River Wines Rapaura Doubles tournament was played out at the Marlborough Tennis Centre over the weekend.
Inclement weather before and during the event prompted a switch of venue for the three-day event, organisers forsaking the grass courts of the Rapaura club for the hard courts at Pollard Park.
However, the shift to a different surface did not detract from the standard of play as 24 mixed doubles combinations did battle on Friday, then 24 men’s doubles duos, plus 15 women’s pairs, lined up on Saturday and Sunday. On Sunday afternoon, the event culminated in two quality three-set finals to decide the overall victors, both played in great spirit and sportsmanship.
The men’s doubles decider was contested by two accomplished pairings. Lee Harborne, a regular at the event and part of last year’s winning combination, teamed up with top Nelson player Simon Phillips, a previous winner alongside his twin brother Sam in 2019.
They were up against Rai Valley-bred siblings Dene and Glenn Wilson, the latter a former Davis Cup player and captain.
The final turned into a hugely-entertaining encounter, ultimately won 6-3, 4-6, 6-1 by Lee and Simon.
Both duos played a serve and volley game, usually best suited to grass courts, with some spirited exchanges at net and some cleverly-placed lobs often deciding key points.
Glenn showed the skills that took him to the top of NZ tennis in the mid-1990s, while keeping the crowd entertained with repartee and tennis quips.
But ultimately it was Lee and Simon who proved more consistent, relishing the chance to play together after their original partners pulled out.
Lee said they had paid attention to the way their final rivals had played in their semifinal and expected a tough encounter.
“We felt that if we took our chances we would go alright and so it proved.”
Simon said after playing against Glenn “probably 20 years ago” and knowing his doubles prowess “he expected nothing less”.
The winning pair felt all four finalists would have preferred to have played on the grass courts and reckoned a similar match would have ensued, but “it wasn’t to be this year, so we just made the most of it”.
In the semifinals Lee and Simon battled their way past a spirited challenge from Sergey Sanin from Christchurch and the colourful Gavin Mockford from Dunedin, coming away with a 7-6, 6-3 win.
In the other semi the Wilson brothers accounted for the Nelson combination of Claus Reichardt and Oscar Symonds 6-0, 6-4.
The women’s title was taken out by veterans Renny Spruijtenburg and Ruth Seeman, a former professional player. It was a first Rapaura title for both as they mounted a strong comeback to eventually get the better of Christchurch player Casey Fitchett and Dunedin’s Angela Fitzgerald 3-6, 7-6, 6-2. Ruth who has made a couple of title-less trips to Marlborough for the annual event, leaves with two titles, having wrapped up the mixed crown on Saturday morning. “I’m very happy with that,” she said. “Today’s doubles final was anybody’s really … although we were ahead in the second set, they came back to make it 6-all and you can toss a coin after that.
“I’m certainly going to come back, it is a great country tournament, especially on the grass as it usually is. It is all about enjoying the tennis at the end of the day and there is a lot of tennis to be had.”
In the semis Casey and Angela defeated Penny Olsen and Vicky Wutzler 6-0, 6-2 while Ruth and Renny beat Jeanette Marston and Kerry Noble 6-1, 6-2.
Doubles
Meanwhile, the mixed doubles trophy has headed west.
In a thrilling and evenly-fought final, played on Saturday morning after rain curtailed play before the decider could be started on Friday, Nelson duo Seeman and Symonds defeated last year’s champions Ella Sowman and Dan Clarke.
The young local pairing took out the first set 6-4 but were outclassed 6-2 in the second by the vastly-experienced Ruth and big-hitting Oscar.
The super tiebreaker was much more evenly-fought before the top-seeded visitors produced some big points to prevail 10-7.
On Friday, Ruth and Oscar downed Sergey and Casey 9-4, while Ella and Dan overcame Felicity Sampson and Dene Wilson 9-3 in the semifinals.
The special plate, for places 9-16, was taken out by Donna Clark and Stu Campbell over Eveline van der Linden and Jaco van Hensbergen. Ben Burridge and Cathy Kitto won the 17th - 24th section beating Joey Beckett and Logan Croad.
The Rapaura men’s doubles finalists, from left, Dene Wilson, Glenn Wilson, Lee Harborne and Simon Phillips.
The women’s double finalists, from left, Ruth Seeman, Renny Spruijtenburg, Casey Fitchett and Angela Fitzgerald. Photos: Peter Jones/Anna Simpson.
Gavin Mockford plays an overhead.
Annabelle Fluit in action.
Josh Joseph lines up a shot at the net.
Amber Lyons.
The colourful Mitchell brothers, Andrew and Mike celebrate.
TRADES + SERVICES
BAILEY: Janene Helena
6 April 1972 - 14 December 2024
It’s with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Janene. Janene was the cherished mother of Isabella and Liam, daughter of Kevin (deceased) and Jennifer Bailey, sister of Rebecca Brosnan, Bryan Bailey and Emma Bailey. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends. A private service to celebrate Janene’s life has taken place with her close family and friends. Any messages can be sent to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Rest peacefully, dear Janene. You will remain in our hearts forever.
BISHELL; Alan Francis
On 23 December 2024. Finally at rest after a short illness, aged 91 years. Devoted husband to Margaret (deceased). Much loved father and father-in-law of Keith, Delwyn (deceased) and Nigel, Glenda and Ray. Adored grandad of Kara and Blair, Dayna and Gareth, Chase and Sam, Travis and Becca. Loving great grandad of Madalyn, Ben and Grace and a loved uncle. Messages to 170 Maxwell Road, Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A private farewell has taken place.
GUARD: Robert Andrew (Bob)
16 October 1945 - 22 December 2024
Bob has folded his wings for the final time after a battle with Motor Neurone Disease. Husband of Joy and father and father-in-law of Tanya and Greg (Blenheim), Natasha and Will (Abu Dhabi) and grandfather of Gus, Leo, Hannah and Ben. Special thanks to the Marlborough Hospice, Dr C.J. Drury, Dr Tomi Moore and the Assisted Dying Medical Team. In accordance with Bob’s wishes, a private cremation has been held. Messages can be sent to 18 Harakeke Place, Redwoodtown, Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz
GUARD: Robert Andrew (Bob)
16 October 1945 - 22 December 2024
Bob has folded his wings for the final time after a battle with Motor Neurone Disease. Husband of Joy and father and father-in-law of Tanya and Greg (Blenheim), Natasha and Will (Abu Dhabi) and grandfather of Gus, Leo, Hannah and Ben. Special thanks to the Marlborough Hospice, Dr C.J. Drury, Dr Tomi Moore and the Assisted Dying Medical Team. In accordance with Bob’s wishes, a private cremation has been held. Messages can be sent to 18 Harakeke Place, Redwoodtown, Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz
nursing team. Messages to 115 Howick Road, Redwoodtown, Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. At Trevor’s request, a private cremation will take place. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Rest easy by the sea now dad.
SMITH: Vincent John (Vince)
Beloved husband, father, brother, stepfather, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle and friend to many, passed away peacefully on December 19, 2024. Dearly loved husband of Melva and the late Doreen, Loved dad of Loraine, Karen, Craig, Josephine and Sheree. Loved stepdad of Veronica, Ann, Denise and the late Lynette. Vince is survived by his loving grandchildren and great grandchildren, who will forever carry his memory in their hearts. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Bethsaida for their exceptional care and support during Vince’s final days. Their kindness, dedication, and professionalism made a difficult time more bearable, and we are forever grateful for the comfort they provided to our family. Messages to Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 and www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Marlborough Hospice trust via their website. A Requiem Mass has been held and a recording of the service is available to view on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
Email us at accounts@marlboroughweekly.co.nz with your address and when you didn’t receive
In lieu of flowers, a donation to Hospice Marlborough would be appreciated and may be made online to a/c 03-1369-036520700 Ref. BROWN. A private cremation has taken place and a Requiem Mass for Bernice was celebrated at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Friday January 3, 2025.
HANNA, Joan Essie (née Austin):
Passed away peacefully at home, on Friday December 27, 2024 with family by her side. Aged 94 years. Dearly loved wife and best friend of the late Tom. Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Graeme and Judy, Rose and the late Bryan Anderson, the late Gaylene Beasley, Stephen, Jenny and Jamie Coltman, and Tony. Loved Grandma of 16 grandchildren and great-grandmother of 28. Special thanks to the Nurse Maude Caregivers. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Hospice Marlborough would be appreciated and may be made to a/c 03-1369-0365297-00, Ref: HANNA. A private cremation has taken place and a public memorial service for Joan will take place on January 25, 2025.
WOOLF, Elsie Janet (née Gleeson):
SPENCER: Graeme Cyril
Beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully at home on 12 December 2024. Treasured husband of Lyn for 63 years. Loved Dad and best friend to baby Paul (deceased), David and Ann, Gayle and Craig, Lance and Suzanne. Cherished Grandad to Dene, Melanie, Pauline, Rachel, Michelle, Sam, Jessica and Couper. Messages to the Spencer family c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Special thanks to Hospice Marlborough, Dr Rhondda Turner, Civic Health staff and pharmacy and St John Ambulance. A private service has been held.
THOMAS: Glen Dean
On 16 December 2024, at Ashwood Park Rest Home, aged 84 years. A Dearly loved husband and soulmate of Pam. A loving dad, stepdad, and grandad (Jock). A heartfelt thanks for all the loving care that Glen received. In accordance with Glen’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place. Messages c/- Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz “Many happy memories that will be cherished forever”.
Passed away, on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Very dearly loved wife of the late Royd. Loved and respected mother and mother-inlaw of Carolyn and Troy, Joanne, Tony and Angela, Rodney and Gael, Sam and Janet, Angie and Glen; and special Grandma to Nick, Ben, and Alex Buckendahl; Daniel and Pamela Kearns; Hayley, Amber-Leigh, Julian and Rowan Woolf, Thomas and Lucas Woolf; Arielle and Lachlan Mackie; Joshua Woolf; and all her great grandchildren. Messages may be sent to the Woolf family at 27A Percy Street, Blenheim 7201. In lieu of flowers a donation to St John would be appreciated and may be made to a/c 12-3167-0165142-00
Ref. WOOLF. A private family interment has taken place and a public memorial service for Janet will take place in the near future.
Respectfully cared for by Geoffrey T Sowman FDANZ
Phone (03) 578 4719 www.sowmans.co.nz
1 BDRM, comfortable furnished cottage on vineyard in Rapaura area. Suit 1-2 people. Ph 021 898 892
JENNINGS; William Arthur (Bill)
On 17 December 2024, aged 75 years, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Loved husband of Kathy, incredible dad (Willy) of Karrin and Martin, Sarah and Nigel, Todd and Emma. Special Grundie of Nathanael, Danielle, Zachiah, Willow, Lola and Yogi. Brother and brother-inlaw to Bev and John, Steven and Anne, and the late Peter and Cheryl. “Little brother” to Barrie and Dawn, and special friend to Sandra and Phil. A loved uncle to all his ‘favourite’ nieces and nephews. A respected friend of many. Messages to 59A Alabama Road and www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz In lieu of flowers donations to the Marlborough Hospice Trust, account number: 03-1369-0365207-00 would be appreciated (reference Jennings). At Bill’s request, a private cremation has been held, and a memorial service will take place later in the new year.
MAWSON: Joan
LOCAL MARLBOROUGH CARAVAN RENTAL - Short/long term hire from 1 night to permanent residential hire. We can deliver and set up for you! Ideal for extra beds, family events and holidays. Call/text Scottie 027 570 5775. TO LET
Passed away peacefully on Sunday, 22 December 2024 at Bethsaida Retirement Village, in her 93rd year. A loved wife of the late Murray. An adored mother and mother-in-law of Annette, Tony and Nennit, Chrissy (dec), Gaye and Ron, Brenda and Terry, and Paul. A much-treasured nana, great nana and great-great nana. Thank you to Bethsaida staff for the wonderful care given to Joan. Messages to Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz In accordance with Joan’s wishes a private cremation has been held.
MCKENNA: Wanaka Barker
Passed away peacefully on Sunday, 15 December 2024, at Ashwood Retirement Village, sadly three days before her 91st birthday. Loved wife of the late Len, much loved and cherished Mum and mother-in-law of Diann and Duncan, Raewyn and David, and Dale and Mark. Loved and treasured “Nan” of grandchildren Michelle and Kieran, Tania and Brett, Shane and Jenny, Karen and Jason, Matilda, Mungo and Taylor. Great grandchildren Jonty, Louis and Harriet, Emily, Florence and Olive and Lewis and Max. A lovely lady who will be sadly missed Messages can be sent to c/- 1 Windsor Close Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Sincere and heartfelt thank you to the wonderful staff in Kowhai Wing at Ashwood for their care and support of Mum during her time there. We are forever grateful. As per Wanaka’s wishes, her cremation has taken place. The family will celebrate her life together at a later date.
TRADES / SERVICES
TRIPP: Joseph Charles
On 13 December 2024, at Kaikoura Hospital. A loved husband, father and grandfather. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz In accordance with Joseph’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place.
WOODS: Graeme Leslie (Woody)
LAWN MOWING, HEDGE TRIMMING, YARD MAINTENANCE, CUSTOM AND READY-MADE GARDEN BOXES
On 16 December 2024, doing what he loved, cycling on the Otago Rail Trail, aged 73 years. Much loved husband of Cheryl. Loved Dad of Melanie, David and Andrew and their extended families. Special friend of Melanie and Willie, and Rebecca and special uncle to Kelly and John. Loved son, grandad, uncle, brother and friend to many. Messages to The Woods family, c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Special thanks to all the Emergency Responders. At the family’s request, a private cremation and farewell will be held.
Yes, I like piña coladas And getting caught in the rain I’m not much into health food I am into champagne I’ve got to meet you by tomorrow noon And cut through all this red tape At a bar called O’Malleys Where we’ll plan our escape
NEWPORT: Trevor Charles
Passed away peacefully on Saturday, 21 December 2024, aged 85 years, at Hospice Marlborough with family by his side. Loved husband of Yvonne. Father of Wayne (dec), and Sharon and Brian. Loved and treasured grandad of Leighton. Thank you to the staff at Hospice Marlborough and the district
Locally Family Owned - Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004 www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
CLEANING SERVICES
GOULD, Margaret Rita (née Hebberd): Sadly passed away in Lower Hutt Hospital on Wednesday December 11, 2024, after a tragic accident. In her 94th year. Loved partner of the late Pat Glassonbury (Renwick) and loving wife of the late George Gould (Onahau Bay). Daughter of the late Ida ‘Nan’ (Onahau Bay), sister of the late Don, Jean, Joe, Jim and Bill; Gwen Hounslow (Picton), and Laura and Rob Patterson. Messages may be sent to 58A Broadway Picton 7220. A memorial service to celebrate Margaret’s life will be held in early 2025, details to be advised.
& PICTON AREAS VERY GOOD PRICES FREE QUOTES Rebecca 027 398 1774
JONES, Stephen Fraser (Born Tauranga): Sadly lost his battle to illness and passed away at home in Havelock, peacefully with loving partner Christine as his side, on Sunday evening December 15, 2024. Aged 67 years. A devoted partner, father, brother, grandad, uncle, and friend to all. He enriched the lives of all who knew him. Brave to the end. Our Hero. Messages may be sent to 7 Outram Street, Havelock 7100. A private farewell has taken place.
1800mm x 1000mm $220 180mm x 500mm $195 1350mm x 500mm $165
STRAIGHT LINES MOWING SERVICE on facebook or call Neil 0210 273 9755
STR AIGHT LINES MOWING SERVICE on facebook or call Neil 0210 273 9755 FOR SALE
BROWN, Bernice Catherine (née McPhee): Passed away peacefully at Wairau Hospital on Saturday December 28, 2024, with her husband by her side. Aged 79 years. Loved wife of Brian for 53 years, loved mother and mother-in-law of Darren and Nicky, Kelly and Richard, Tessa and Vince. Loved Grandma of Liv, Lachlan, Petra, Patterson and Ash. Cherished sister of Stefan and Donna, loved sisterin-law and aunty to many. Special thanks to the nurses and doctors in ED and Day Stay at Wairau Hospital. Messages may be sent to 81A Budge Street, Riversdale, Blenheim 7201.
MARLBOROUGH’S COMMUNITY NOTICES
PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY
MARLBOROUGH’S HOME OF ENTERTAINMENT • THE LATEST BLOCKBUSTERS • SNACK BAR • FAMILY MOVIE DEALS
MONDAY
MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS BARBERSHOP CHORUS. 7pm, Spring Creek Hall. If you love singing, come and join us. Ph: Chris 021445261.
BLENHEIM SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING 7pm, Whitney St School Hall. Ph: Heather 02102587325.
BLENHEIM BEGINNER LINE DANCE CLASSES 2-3pm & 6-7pm. Senior Citizen’s Hall, 172 High St. Ph: Judith 5787554 / 0212341095. First lesson free, $7 per lesson after that.
CARE & SHARE A place for creatives to meet, encourage & share their skills. 9.30am fortnightly. Barnies, Nativity. 76 Alfred St. Ph: 5783909.
ROTARY CLUBS BLENHEIM Meet Mon & Tues 5.30pm. World-wide service club for men & women doing great things in your community. For info on meeting venues. Ph: Blenheim Club Frank Porter 0272781546, or Blenheim South Club Secretary Dean Heiford 0212462642.
STEADY AS YOU GO CLASSES, Mon, 10.30-11.30, The Foundry, John St, $2. For info: Ph: 5793457.
TARGET RIFLE SHOOTING, Summer shooting. 2nd & 4th Mon of month, 7.30pm, Athletic Park range, Riverside Club. Visitors welcome. Cost $10.
TUESDAY
PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Meet 1st Tues of each month except Jan, 7.15pm. Cancer Society Blenheim 76a Maxwell Rd. Ph Murray 0276085667
KNITTERS & SPINNERS Meet 10am, Picton library. Bring your knitting for this social catch-up.
TUESDAY BLIND WINE CHALLENGE, Tues, 10:30am - 10pm, Fidelio Cafe & Wine Bar. Come and try a mysterious wine by the glass every. Wines and questions change weekly. 18+. $14.
PICTON TABLE TENNIS for adults 10-12pm. Little Theatre, Picton. $4 Morning tea included. Ph: Ernest 0275888453. AL-ANON FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP meetings. Help for families/friends of problem drinkers and addictions. Every Tues, 6.30-7.30, Salvation Army, George St, Blenheim. Margaret 0210 260 7468.
MARLBOROUGH WOMEN’S CLUB MAHJONG, 13.30pm, 12 Battys Rd. Ph: Gail 0272214121. $4.
STEADY AS YOU GO, Gentle Exercise/ Balance Class for Seniors. Tues, 11.30-12.30pm, St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St. Ph: 0273852333 or e: donna@stchristophers. co.nz. $3.
PERSISTENT PAIN SUPPORT GROUP, Tues, 5-6pm. Dropin group for people with persistent pain & those supporting them. For info Ph: Cindy 0273809120
TENNIS AT MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB, Tues, 8.3012pm, Marlborough Tennis Club, Pollard Park, Parker St. Social Doubles Tennis. Morning Tea at 10am. Non-Members $5. All Welcome. Ph: 0275786436.
JUMP N JIVE FOR UNDER 5’S Come along to our preschool rhythm and music group. 9.30am, The Foundry on John St. Jump n Jive runs during school terms. Morning tea included. Check out tautokotrust.org for more info. Gold coin donation.
RENWICK ARMS COUNTRY CLUB CARD SECTION, Tues, 1pm, Redwood Tavern, Cleghorn Street, Blenheim. Meet and play EUCHRE and CRIBBAGE. Beginners are welcome to learn and play. $5 per afternoon. Ph: Chris 0272077631. SUNBELT TOASTMASTERS Learn public speaking. Improve your confidence. 6.20pm fortnightly. St Mary’s Community Centre. P: 0276001788 or e: sunbeltblenheim@ gmail.com.
MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB, 8.30-12pm, social, Morning Tea 10am, Parker St. Non-members $5. Ph: 0275786436.
BLENHEIM CHORAL 7pm. Nativity Church Hall. www. blenheimchoral.org.
BLENHEIM AIR TRAINING CORP, 6.30-9pm, RNZAF Base Woodbourne. Recruiting new cadets aged 13 & 15 years. e: 27sqn@cadetforces.org.nz.
PICTON NEWCOMERS NETWORK 1st Tues of month, ‘COFFEE & CHAT’ 10-11am, Seabreeze Café, London Quay. New to town? Need help to settle in? Interested in local activities? We can help! Ph: Cathy 0210451799 e: picton@ newcomers.co.nz
RED HAT SOCIETY for women to enjoy fun & friendship. We meet 1st & 3rd Tues of the month. Ph: Tina 0211045945.
MARLBOROUGH HERB SOCIET Y Meet 4th Tues of month, 7pm. Various locations. To promote use, educate & identification of herbs. e: mhsgarlicpress@gmail.com.
STEADY AS YOU GO CLASSES, last class 17th Dec.11.30am-12.30pm St Christopher’s Church Hall. $3. 92 Weld St. 0273852333 donna@stchristophers.co.nz
WEDNESDAY
VINES VILLAGE MONTHLY MARKET, Sept-May, 3rd Wed of month, 4.30-7.30pm, The Vines Village, 193 Rapaura Rd.
MARLBOROUGH MULTICULTURAL CENTRE hosts newcomers, Wed, 10.30-12pm, Henry St. Opportunities for Newcomers & Marlburians to make friends, practice English & support each other. Ven y practica tu inglés. Te esperamos.
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS casual parents/caregivers catch up. Wed, 10.30-12pm Town Plunket Clinic, 16 Henry St.
MARLBOROUGH CHINESE FELLOWSHIP Wed, 6-7.30pm,
St Christopher’s Church. 92 Weld St. Chinese Christian group. Interested in the Bible or Christianity, desire to grow in the faith or would like to meet new friends, we welcome you. Ph: Guan 0221642782 | Mandy 0224326886.
MARLBOROUGH VINTAGE CAR CLUB MUSEUM, Wed & Sun, 1.30 – 3.30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, Blenheim. Other times by arrangement. Ph: Bill 0275784322. Donation appreciated. New members welcome.
BLENHEIM PETANQUE CLUB, Wed, 1-3pm and Sun, 1012pm, Games held at courts, 65A Weld St. Ph/Txt: John 021979323.
STRETCH & BREATHE Last class 18 Dec. 10-11am, St Christopher’s Church Hall. 92 Weld St 0273852333 or donna@stchristophers.co.nz. $3
ROCK ‘N’ ROLL, Wed, 7.30pm. Blenheim Bowling Club, 65 Weld St. Ph: Erin 0272341709.
PICTON - SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING, Wed, 7.30pm, Picton Little Theatre. No partner needed. Beginner’s welcome. Ph: Lynda 0212600860.
CHEESE & CHEERS is part of the Silent Book Club Aotearoa. 1st Wed of month, 5.30pm, Vines Village, 193 Rapaura Rd. Ph: 035727170 for info.
BLENHEIM PROBUS CLUB Retired/semi-retired? Meet 1st Wed of month, 10am. Wesley Centre. Ph: Ann 5787046 | Jan 0226353919.
LIONS’ CLUB OF BLENHEIM, Tea Meetings, 1st & 3rd Wed (Feb-Nov). Serving the community for over sixty years. Would you like to know more about the Lion’s club or are interested in becoming a Lion? Ph: Delphine Lee 0299425004 | Helen Williams 0211458572.
PICTON LIONS, meet 1st Wed on month. Join a worthwhile volunteer group, both female & male members wanted, good fellowship, all money raised goes back to Picton community. Ph: Norman 0274336242.
WAITOHI SOCIAL CLUB, 3rd Wed of month, 10am, Picton Library. Meet for fun & friendship. After meeting we go for lunch if you wish to join us. Gold coin donation for morning tea.
BLENHEIM SENIOR CITIZENS 2nd & 4th Wed of month, 2pm, 172 High St. Entertainment and afternoon tea provided. Ph: Shirly 0210388616.
STEADY AS YOU GO CLASSES,Wed, 1.30-2.30pm, Marlborough Community Centre, 25 Alfred St, Blenheim. $2 . For info: Ph: 5793457.
THURSDAY
TAI CHI & QIGONG with Nancy. Classes resume 9 Jan. 11am Wairau Valley, 3pm Redwoodtown Hall. Have a happy and safe holiday! lasfronteras@xtra.co.nz or 572 2884 or 027 572 2881
KEEP U MOVING Last walking group 19th Dec. 11.30am12.30pm St Christopher’s Church Hall. $3. 92 Weld St. 0273852333 donna@stchristophers.co.nz
PICTON BRIDGE CLUB, Thurs, 6.50pm, Port Marlborough Pavilion. Ph: Judy 021685348.
SOCIAL BADMINTON Thurs, 9am-12pm, Simcox Stadium Batty’s Rd. All adults welcome. Ph: Cathy 021503348. $6.
PICTON TABLE TENNIS for adults, Thurs, 10am-12pm. Port Marlborough Pavilion, Waikawa Rd. Morning tea included. Ernest 0275888453. $4.
THURSDAY QUIZ NIGHT 2nd Thurs of the month, 6:30pm, Fidelio Cafe & Wine Bar. Get your team together to match wits for a fun evening of quizzing with plenty of time for great banter and laughs aplenty. Four Trivia rounds. 18+, unless with a parent or guardian. $20 per team.
KNIT & NATTER, Thurs, 10am-12pm, Blenheim Library. All welcome. Bring your yarn & have a yarn. For info Ph: Sue 5785317.
COMPANIONS Ages 60+, 1st Thurs of month 1pm, Harvest Life Church, 22 Nelson St. Ph: Avon 035792440 | Lorraine 035781240 |or Shirley 035783728.
MARLBOROUGH AMATEUR RADIO CLUB 2nd Thurs of month, 7.30pm, EOC, 4 Wither Rd. For all interested in Amateur Radio, Electronics & Emergency Communications.
COPD SUPPORT & EXERCISE GROUP Tailored for people with breathlessness. 2nd & 4th Thurs of month, 1.15pm. Redwoodtown Community Hall, Cnr Weld & Cleghorn St. Ph: Diana 0272105780 | Gillian 0274545102.
PICTON POETS, 4th Thurs of month, 10.30-11.30am, Picton Library, all welcome. Ph: Lyn 0211294342.
STEADY AS YOU GO CLASSES, Thurs, 10-11am, Anglican Church Hall, 54 High St, Renwick. $3. For info: Ph: 5793457.
FRIDAY
OLDER PERSONS SEMINAR No Seminar for December. LIVE MUSIC FRIDAYS, Every Friday, 6:30pm, Fidelio Cafe & Wine Bar. Enjoy lively music every Friday evening with rotating musicians from the Top of the South and on tour, with varying music styles and genres. 18+, unless with a parent or guardian. Free.
MARLBOROUGH COMMUNITY CLUB INC Meet Fri, 4.30pm, Redwood Tavern. Courtesy Coach available. Wayne Love, Country Ramblers, and many more entertainers. Line Dancers, Rock and Roll Club. Raffles, Lotto draw. Fellowship, meals and drinks. Ph: Margaret 0276238269 for info.
NATIVITY TUNES FOR TOTS music, food & fun for pre-schoolers & caregivers, Fri, 9.30am, Nativity Hall, 76 Alfred St. During term time. Ph: 5783909.
SALVATION ARMY GAMES Rummy O or Cards ‘500’, Fri, 1-4pm. Ph: Moira for info 0284213163. $2 to cover afternoon tea.
BOLIVIA CARD GAME, Fri afternoons. Redwoodtown. Ph: Mal 0273157675.
PICTON NEWCOMERS NETWORK ‘SUNDOWNERS’, Fri, 5-6pm, Café Cortado on the waterfront. New to town? Need help to settle in? Interested in local activities? We can help! Ph: Cathy 0210451799 or e: picton@newcomers.co.nz. LINK, Fri, 1pm, Nativity Centre Lounge, 76 Alfred St. Fun, board games & afternoon tea. Ph: 5783909 for info. Gold coin donation appreciated.
UPBEAT ORCHESTRA All ages. Instruments. Fri, 5-6.30pm, St Ninians Church Hall, Alabama Rd. From beginner-grade 5. e: upbeatorchestra@gmail.com.
MARLBOROUGH WOMEN’S CLUB ARVO, Fri, 2-4pm, 12 Battys Rd. Guest speakers. Dianne 0212147757. $5.
CRAFT FAIR, Sat and Sun, Oct 26, 27, 10-4pm, Oct 28, 10-3pm, Havelock Town Hall. Free Entry, Lots of crafts and plants Supporting Alzheimers Marlborough
SATURDAY / SUNDAY
REDWOOD MARKET, Sat, 8-12pm, Redwood Tavern car park, Cleghorn St. Plants, garden products, flowers, crafts including handmade soaps, cards & jewellery. Raising money for your community.
PICTON RAIL & SAIL on the Foreshore. Mini train rides & yachts from 20 cents. Every Sun & the school holiday’s, subject to weather.
MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB, Sun, 3-5pm, Parker St Social Tennis Non-Members $2. All welcome. Ph: Joanna 0275786436.
BARNABAS CHURCH BLENHEIM, Sun Service, 4pm, St Ninians Church, cnr Riley Cres & Alabama Rd. barnabas. org.nz. KETO SUPPORT GROUP meet Sat, fortnightly (approx. beginning & mid-month), 10am, Revival Café, Springlands. Informal gathering of folk interested in this dietary practice. No charge, no obligation but the coffee’s great! For info Ph: 0275057774
BLENHEIM ROTARY BOOTSALE MARKET, Sat, 8am12pm, Railway Station carpark. Blenheim Rotary Bootsale operating over 25 years, funds to local/international projects. New or used items, plants, food, coffee carts welcome. See bootsalemarket on Facebook.
MARLBOROUGH STROKE CLUB a voluntary organisation dedicated to the wellbeing of those who have experienced a stroke, and to the support of their caregivers. We offer support, friendship & education with various meetings held each month. Ph: Vyvienne Dunlop 5783837 or 021929955.
MARLBOROUGH FARMERS MARKET, Sun, 9-12pm, A&P showgrounds. Local fresh & seasonal produce & products. SOUNDS ANGLICAN CHURCH SERVICE, Sun, 9.30am, St Peter’s - 30 Lawrence St, Havelock.
THE ROADHOUSE BREAKFAST for car enthusiasts of all genres. 1st Sun of month, Riverlands Roadhouse. Coffee cart on site, cafe has great food. 100+ cars at each of first two events.
BLENHEIM HEALING ROOMS open 1st & 3rd Sat of the month, between 11-12.30pm from Feb- beginning Dec. We offer free, confidential prayer for healing or other needs. You can find us at Connect, High St, Blenheim.
MARLBOROUGH QUILTERS, meet 2nd Sat of month, 10-4pm, Marlb Vintage & Farm Machinery, Brayshaw Park. Join us to learn quilting or bring your own projects. Sewing Machines available. Newcomer’s welcome. Ph: Liz 0212067382.
REPAIR CAFÉ, 4th Sat of month, 9-12pm, John’s Kitchen, 2 Redwood St. We’ll fix your small repair on site. Sewing, darning, bikes, small furniture, wooden items, toys, electronics & mobile phones. Donations accepted.
BAHÁ’Í DEVOTIONS, meet, 1st & 3rd Sun of month, 10.3011.15am, Marl Community Centre, 25 Alfred St, 12th Lane. Blenheim. Cnr Farmers carpark. www.bahai.org.
BLENHEIM RIVERSIDE RAILWAY Runs 1st & 3rd Sun of the month. We have Eftpos. Facebook - Riverside Railway. MARLBOROUGH ASSOCIATED MODELLERS SOCIETY
miniature train rides 1st & 3rd Sun of month. $2. Model yacht & boat sailing Sun, 1pm-4pm, Brayshaw Park.
GROVETOWN LAGOON plant/weed/mulch Wed, 9.3011.30am & Thurs, 1.30-3pm. Ph: Rosanne 0210709267. Sun session, every 2nd Sunday , 9:30am-12pm, Wairau Rowing Club, Steam Wharf Rd, Grovetown. followed by a BBQ. e: Justine Johnsonmarlborough@gmail.com.
BLENHEIM FAMILY HISTORY GROUP, Informal gatherings, 3rd Sun of the month, 1.30-3pm, Family History Rooms, Brayshaw Park. Interested in Family History Research & building your Family Tree? For for advice & assistance. Ph: Lauri 578 8385.
WHALING CAVALCADE Sat 21 Dec 3pm, Marlborough Museum A programme of unique whaling films from our rich maritime heritage, an informative once only celebration event to mark SIXTY YEARS since the last whale was taken from NZ waters. Also expert talks & discussions from special invited guests. $8 entry.
GENERAL GROUPS
MARLBOROUGH MUSEUM New exhibition The Power of Flowers- how flowers inspired fashion. Open Tues,Thurs & Sun 11am - 3pm. Adults $10 children free.
MARLBOROUGH BRIDGE CLUB, Mon, Tues, 6.45pm, Wed, 12.45pm, Connect Hall, 8 Beaver Rd. Ph: Christine 021315650 (Mon), Ann 0212296933 (Tues), Marsha 02102395252 (Wed).
RENWICK MENZ SHED, Tues, 8.30-2pm, Fri, 8.30-12pm, 54 High St Renwick. Left of church. Morning Tea provided. Ph: Dave 02102282592.
PICTON MEN’S COMMUNITY SHED, Wed, 8.30am-3pm, Sat, 8.30-12pm, 2 Market St. Ph: Bill Rogers 5735507.
PICTON DAWN CHORUS, checking volunteer trap lines, walking through native bush. Ph: Jen 03 928 4957 ext 1. e: volunteering@pictondawnchorus.nz.
BLENHEIM MENZ SHED, Sat, 9-12pm, Mon & Thurs, 1-4pm, 4 Dillons Point Rd, Bright Centre Complex. Where men of all ages meet to just chill out or do projects for themselves or the community. We provide equipment, tools & workspace for most woodwork & metalwork projects. Ph: Dave 0212340057.
SENIORNET MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS Linkwater Hall, Queen Charlotte Drive. Tutors for people 50+ needing assistance with computer/smartphone. Ph: Ian Cameron 035742558 to arrange.
BROOKLYN CROQUET CLUB Tues, Thurs, Sat, 1pm, Golf Croquet, Whitehead Park grounds, Brooklyn Dr. Mallets supplied.
MARLBOROUGH MOUNTAIN BIKE CLUB committed to seeing mountain biking flourish in Marlborough. We hold regular rides suitable for all levels of fitness & ability. Including back-country expeditions, easy local rides, more serious mountain bike races. e: marlboroughmountainbike@gmail.com.
MARLBOROUGH TRAMPING CLUB A very active club. Mid-week, Sunday trips, overnight & extended trips. Info at www.marlboroughtrampingclub.co.nz or e: marlboroughtrampingclub@gmail.com
LEARN TO ROW, Sun, 8.30am or from 4.45pm on Tues & Thurs. Give rowing a go, or get back into rowing, with the Blenheim Rowing Club. We’ll teach you the basics and get you on the river with experienced rowers to get you started. More info: blenheimrowing.co.nz.
CUDDON C YCLING MARL Road racing alternate Sats, details on facebook. Loan bikes, coaching & tuition available. Ph: Chris 035780433 | Warren 021663910 for info. www. cyclingmarlborough.co.nz.
SIT AND BE FIT, Tues & Thurs, 1.15pm, Riversdale Community House. Ph: 5780469 | 0223007342. $2.
MARLBOROUGH GUILD OF WOODWORKERS, Mon, 9-12pm & 7-9pm. Wed, Sat, 9am-12pm, 1st Sun of the month, 1-4pm, Brayshaw Park. Wooden toys, projects. Ph: Philip 5705188.
WORKING BEE – TE WHANAU HOU GROVE TOWN LAGOON plant/weed/mulch, Wed, 9.30-11.30am & Thurs, 1.30-3pm. Ph: Rosanne 0210709267. Sun session, every 2nd Sun, 9.30-12pm, Wairau Rowing Club, Stream Wharf Rd, Grovetown. Followed by BBQ. e: justinejohnsonmarlborough@gmail.com.
ULYSSES CLUB, Coffee, Sat, 10am, The Runway Café. For info : marlborough@ulysses.org.nz or marlborough.ulysses.org.nz.
NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS, Thurs/Sat 7-8pm, Riversdale Community House, 131 Budge St. MARLBOROUGH COMMUNITY VEHICLE TRUST Have difficulty getting to medical appointments in NELSON? This trust was created to carry people to Nelson for medical appointments. Ph: 5741311 or e: soundsvehicle@gmail.com. AA MEETINGS Marlborough area. Meetings: Mon, 7.30pm, Plunket Rooms, 21 Bythell St | Web, 7.30pm, Picton Model Railway, 1 Picton Wharf | Fri, 7.30pm, St Luke’s Church Hall, 20 Ferry Creek Rd, Spring Creek | Sat, 7.55am, Salvation Army Rm, 35 George St | Sun, 7.30pm, Church, 54 High St, Renwick. Ring alcoholics anonymous for help to stop drinking. Ph: 08002296757. www.aa.org.nz.
