Walking the world
PAULA HULBURT
A Picton woman is set to tackle a 40,000 kilometre walk around the world, rais ing money and awareness for women’s charities.
Helen-Maree Forde has a smile that shines, a smile she’s fought hard to find again.
Around her neck sits a colourful Tree of Life necklace, at her feet a backpack and her hiking boots.
Aptly Titled You. Can.Go.Far, the odys sey has been a longed-for dream. The walk of hope is to raise both mon ey and awareness for organisations supporting women who have suffered domestic and sexual abuse.
Helen-Maree knows firsthand the dev astating effects of both. At the age of 52 years old, she has found who she truly is, she says.
Now, she hopes to inspire and help others. “I want to show everyone any dream is possible,” Hel en-Maree beams.
“I was born into sexual abuse and violence and I grew up seeing a whole lot of things I shouldn’t have.”
It was a trusted family friend who sub jected Helen-Maree to four years of sexual abuse when she was a child. Her sense of self-worth, her perception of healthy relationships and the courage
Picton’s Helen-Maree Forde has a full training schedule in place ready
40,000
in 2027. Photo: Paula Hulburt.
Repeat the Brookby Beats
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Following on the success of the inaugural music event last year, round two of Brookby Beats is set to get underway.
Organisers at Two Rivers’ Brookby Hill Vineyard are keen to welcome the beats back again.
After so much positive feedback from the first event, this year’s set up looks to be even bigger, explains Two Rivers’ Shorona McLeay.
“We’ve had so much positive feedback from attendees and vendors from last year being able to put this on, and so
with some tweaks to the setup, the entertainment, we’re just generally offering more,” she says.
On the music side, Auckland DJ duo 2XM, Murray Sweetpants, Pete Green and Mausili will take to the DJ decks, while Bec Staples will bring an additional acoustic soundtrack to the event.
And while expanded numbers of vendors and ticket holders are excited for the second Brookby Beats, the organising team is even more excited after the overwhelming success last year,
“It’s 100% piggybacking off the Wine and Food Festival, but focusing on the Southern Valleys’ vineyards, getting together out in the vines on a Friday evening for both locals and travellers, it’s a hard place to beat for a fun evening out”.
Get Brookby Beats events and bus tickets from https://www. moshtix.co.nz/v2/event/ brookby-beats-2025/170901
“The whole team is looking forward to hosting Brookby Beats again and bringing something that we can continue to make fresh and fun as part of a real highlight weekend for the region we can all celebrate.
Old school style
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
A strong collection of some of the country’s oldest cars are coming together for this year’s national Veteran Car Club rally.
An array of veteran cars and motorbikes, all dating from earlier than 1919, will be coming to Marlborough from as far as Auckland and Dunedin - including a 124-year-old Wolseley.
Marlborough Vintage Car Club’s Chris Bird says he believes it’s the first time since the 60s or 70s the region has hosted such an event.
“We as a club put our hand up to volunteer to host this year’s event because it’s usually alternating between North and South Island hosts, but we wanted to step up while there was no North Island club willing to,” Chris says.
“Eight months of planning programmes, getting permits, organising safe rally routes is well worthwhile.”
The Veteran definition includes vehicles originally built in between 1900 and 1919 and while most of the vehicles are being transported by trailers to Blenheim and back, all are in working order. “However, I think we will have someone driving their
1913/14 Overland all the way down from Auckland - the Vintage Car Club’s motto is ‘Driving our History,” so we want to be using and displaying these vehicles.
“The oldest vehicle we have coming is a 1900 from Dunedin, and over the last while we’ve had two recently restored Oldsmobile’s’ from John Pauling and Rae
Fairweather get close to being finished. We’re hoping they’ll be ready for the rally as well as display while they’re still going through road registrations.
“Owning and upkeeping a vintage vehicle is a real labour of love, money and passion by people across the country, and we want to share that passion as
wide as possible.”
The rally will held by the Marlborough Vintage Car Club from the 5 to 8 of February, with Heritage Day on Waitangi Day at Brayshaw Park before a trip to and from Rarangi Beach via Thomson’s Ford Road on 7 February leaving Brayshaw Park at 10am.
Marlborough Vintage Car Club’s Chris Bird with Graham and Carroll Wiblin’s 1909 Schacht – one of the earliest imported vehicles to Marlborough. Photo: William Woodworth.
Michelle Barry, Hazel Thomson at last year’s Brookby Beats. Photo: William Woodworth.
Boots made for walking
FROM PAGE 1
But she was determined to forge a brighter future.
“I knew I had to step up out of my comfort zone. If I didn’t do that, how was I ever going to live another, better version of myself?
“If we can’t love ourselves, how can we love someone else? “‘I needed to step out of my bubble.”
The Kiwi, who grew up in Marlborough, is predominantly based in the UK, but returns regularly to Picton where her mum lives.
Both Marlborough and England are home, the former Royal Navy chef says but Picton and the Sounds have a special place in her heart.
The town has been her training ground for the last few weeks,
taking the Tirohanga in her stride daily.
She started walking the Queen Charlotte Track on Monday 27 January, with every step taking her closer towards her goal.
“My intentions are to start early 2027 I will be 56 at this point and all going well I’ll be arriving back home to NZ four years later.”
Helen-Maree was forced to delay after she broke a bone in her right foot, and damaged ligaments and tendons in her leg while training in the UK.
This is the year, training begins again in earnest, she says.
“All round, I feel great.”
Her mobile phone is close at hand, a photo of her younger self with her arm around her granddad. The photo will accompany
News in brief
Holiday haul: New Zealand wine proved popular in the UK over the festive period, with a value growth of 7.3 percent and volume growth of 9.7 per cent compared to last year. Half of all money spent on Sauvignon Blanc in the UK over December came from New Zealand wines.
Superyacht status: Picton Marina has
her on her global trek.
Leo Forde died in 2019; a devastating lost for Helen-Maree. “He was my hero,” she explains. “He’s my hugest inspiration.
“I began to think about what he
achieved “Superyacht Ready” accreditation and “Gold Anchor” status from the Marina Industry Association (MIA Australia) This accreditation highlights Marlborough Sounds Marinas’ dedication to providing world-class facilities and exceptional service for superyacht guests, captains, and crew.
Talent needed: Musicians, singers, buskers, jugglers and magicians are needed to help make Brayshaw Heritage Park’s annual Waitaingi Open Day come alive. Organisers
My favourite
knock
would have wanted for me and that would be for me to live my best life.”
Helen-Maree will walk along the ancient pilgrim routes (Caminos) across Europe before doubling back and heading to Africa. She is expected back in New Zealand in 2031.
In each country she hopes advanced publicity and word of mouth will help raise vital funds for local women’s abuse centres.
A budget of 80 eros per day is all she has.
“I know my granddad would be cheering me on. He’d say, ‘you go girl, I’m proud of you.,’”
“I’m a dreamer,” Helen-Maree, explains, “but it’s time to stop dreaming the dream and put them into action”.
would like to hear from those who can help bring the Olde Beavertown Village alive with music and fun.
Regatta winners: The Picton Beach Races dragon boat regatta saw exciting, good-humoured racing throughout Sunday off Shelly Beach. The Marlborough-based crews of Simply the Breast and Marlborough Dragons defended home water admirably throughout the day against all comers, with Simply the Breast winning their Le Mans race division.
Helen-Maree Forde is preparing to walk 40,000km. Photo: Paula Hulburt.
Hato Hone St John have benefitted from the support of motorbike enthusiasts from across the region. The first responders were given a $2000 donation from the Marlborough chapter of the Triumph Riders Motorcycle Club following a charity ride. Club spokesperson and ride organiser Phil Stuart says it is the third year the club has organised the December fundraiser.
About 120 bikes and riders took part in the 200km ride which started at Blenheim’s Waterfront Bar & Grill. As well as a rider entry fee, local businesses donated raffle prizes.
Reserve soldier’s birthday was the pits
PAULA HULBURT
An engineering student has literally sunk to a new low as he marked his 20th birthday sleeping in a pit.
ough Boys’ College. But on a friend’s advice he decided to study and pick up his passion for the Army as a part-time journey instead. “It was a bit of a different day.
Triumph Riders Keith Singlewood, Joe Larrington, Alistair Crawford and Phil Stuart with Hato Hone St John Blenheim staff Jo Douglas, Lisa Sturgess and Meg Parr. Photo: William Woodworth.
Digital art captures senior stories
PAULA HULBURT
As the black and white photos of her parents are projected onto the wall, Rose Francis watches in quiet pride.
The 80-year-old Blenheim woman is one of several senior artists to feature in the Marlborough Art Society’s latest exhibition – A Moment In Time.
At the official opening on Friday evening, Rose joined other contributors to showcase a compilation of their stories through digital art.
Rose’s work was a video compilation created on publishing platform Canva.
“When I heard that the grandkids were learning Canva, I felt a bit embarrassed and out of touch,” she explains.
“It was no big deal to them,” Rose laughs, “but it is to me.”
The wide variety of digital art tells of a personal journey.
For Rose, it was also a way to ensure her family’s history does not get lost as time unfolds.
Her father, she explains, sold his motorbike in England to sail to New Zealand where he met her mother.
Working as a pilot with the Royal New Zealand Airforce at Base Woodbourne, John Person, flew battle-damaged
planes to check their sturdiness after repair. Badly injured and burnt after a crash, he was hospitalised at Wairau Hospital. “That’s where he met my mum, Betty,” Rose smiles.
“It’s emotional seeing their photos, it brings back lovely memories but of course, there’s grief there too.”
A former international journalist, Rose says she enjoyed the three workshops which enabled her to explore technology while sharing part of her story.
Organised by Presbyterian Support and Marlborough District Council, the opening saw about 80 people gather in support.
Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor, councillors and organisers from Presbyterian Support Upper South Island joined family and friends for the special event. Prints, digital photos, audio and video will be displayed at the Marlborough Art Society on High Street Blenheim until 9 February.
Rose Francis is delighted to be showing her work at A Moment In Time Exhibition at the Marlborough Art Society. Photo: Paula Hulburt.
Dollhouse labour of love
PAULA HULBURT
A talented Blenheim woodworker is helping spread joy by donating his handmade dollhouses to children across the region.
Eighteen months ago, Blenheim man Dave McLeod started to try his hand at woodwork.
Now hundreds of children in kindergartens and preschools have benefited from his skills and dedication.
It all began with a bird house, Dave explains.
“A fellow came in to change the gas bottle and saw I was building a bird house.
“He said I should be making dollhouses as it was hard to find any that weren’t made of plastic.
“I thought about it, finished making the bird house and gave it a go.”
Alongside wife Marilyn, the semi-retired tractor driver has found new homes for the special pieces.
Mayfield, Seymour, Redwoodtown, Springlands, Witherlea Picton and St Marys Kindergartens, a preschool in Kaikoura and Renwick have all received dollhouses.
Women’s Refuge were also given one.
Dave says he rarely accepts private commissions as he wants as many children as possible to benefit.
“I’d rather give them away so lots of children get to enjoy them.
“The first one I made was a
bit smaller with balconies but then I realised I was making them a bit too elaborate, and they might get easily broken.
“The first thing the kids do is try and open the doors, but I glue them shut now or they wouldn’t last for long.”
Each house comes with carefully wallpapered partitions which are easily moved so children can create different rooms inside the house.
Working in his garage at home, Dave says he spends part of every day creating the unique dollhouses. Family dog Buddy, often supervises.
Each one is a true labour of love, taking months to complete.
“If I worked full time on them, I could make one in about three weeks. I never really plan what I’m going to do. I just sit down, and it comes to me, usually at 3 o clock in the morning,” he laughs.
Alongside wife Marilyn, Dave choses a kindergarten and surprises them with the gift.
“I don’t plan anything in advance because what happens if I just dropped down dead one day and couldn’t finish it.
“This helps keep me alive,” Dave says with a grin. Dave is interested to hear from any children’s charities or fundraising efforts for children who may benefit from a dollhouse donation.
Please email paula@top southmedia.co.nz and messages will be forwarded on.
Saturday
freestyle motorcross riders and stuntmen bringing their best for an incredibly eager, excited crowd of 3500 people at Eastern States Speedway. The energy of the crowd fed through to the drivers and riders putting on an incredible show, who thoroughly enjoyed their time in Marlborough. See more photos on Out and About.
Marilyn and Dave McLeod working on the latest dollhouse. Photo: Paula Hulburt.
Kiwi Steel Rodeo hit Blenheim on
night at Eastern States Speedway, with monster trucks,
Photo: Alex Roberton.
Variety spices up festival
Reporter William Woodworth continues his series talking to some of the people who help make the Marlborough Wine and Food Festival a success. Here, he speaks with Marlborough chef and Cloudy Bay Clams’ general manager, Aaron Piper.
While finding fine wines and tasty dishes will be paramount for Aaron, connecting with familiar faces keeps him coming back to Marlborough’s Wine and Food Festival.
“For me, it’s the people that make the festival as great as it is,” he says.
“The food and wine industries meld together wonderfully, and the team puts on a great show, but it’s because you’re surrounded by friends, family, colleagues and acquaintances which makes the day.
“Whether it’s with vineyards, restaurants or personal connections having worked in the same circles over the years, it all really comes together so nicely.”
Aaron hopes festival guests will use the day to get out of their comfort zone, to dig a bit deeper into what has become the region’s biggest social event.
“I’ll pop in and see a couple of friends like Sander from Kaiaka Catering in the VIP tent and Fran, the Boom
Chef.
“I’m always interested to see what our namesakes in Cloudy Bay Vineyards do, and the Vinyl in the Vines Groove Garden was plenty of fun last year so I’ll be back there too.
“A real magic part of the day is exploration, whether it’s between the different entertainment stages, ex-
ploring new wines and cuisines, so spreading yourself around the event and taking the time to chat with friends and future friends is what the day’s all about”.
The Marlborough Wine and Food Festival takes place on 8 February. For tickets visit marlboroughwine festival.com
Marlborough car thieves prefer upmarket vehicles
PAULA HULBURT
Thieves are bucking the national trend when it comes to stealing cars, with an upmarket Audi coming in as top choice in Marlborough.
The most frequently stolen vehicle in the region is an Audi A4.
It is the only European car to make the top 10 list in regions across the country.
Figures from insurance brokers AMI reveal the top stolen cars for 2024.
For a consecutive year, the Toyota Aqua has claimed the title of New Zealand’s most stolen car. In Nelson, it is the Mazda Demio which takes first place.
AMI Executive General Manager Claims Wayne Tippet says Marlborough has the lowest number of vehicle thefts compared to other regions in the country.
AMI Executive General Manager Claims Wayne Tippet says Marlborough has the lowest number of car thefts in the country.
“While the Audi A4 is the most frequently stolen vehicle, there were six theft claims lodged last year for this vehicle, among a total of 19 claims. “ The majority of these vehicles were recovered and, across the board, 52 per cent of stolen vehicles are repaired and returned to our customers.”
He added the popularity of certain vehicles among drivers in the region can also lead to higher theft claims for those models.
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Cloudy Bay Clams’ Aaron Piper working alongside chef Michael Meredith at last year’s Marlborough Wine and Food Festival’s Culinary Pavilion.
Photo: Supplied.
Opinion
Community Comments
Chlorine is toxic to humans and known as a major cause of cancer. There is no good reason for the Blenheim main water supply to be chlorinated but Government is applying pressure to Council to ensure that this happens. Why the continuing obsession by Government with controlling personal health choices of people? Robyn Hutchison.
Caravan Park growth sparks road upgrade:
Every morning especially when there’s ferry traffic on the road that’s barrelling over the new bridge to join the queue through Blenheim, no fun at all.
At least the person in your article was only doing it once, so if NZTA/Kotahi can accommodate the odd car turning right onto State Highway 1, surely, they could sort out the turning right out of Budge Street, also on to State Highway 1- there’s a lot more traffic trying to do it. Put a 30kph limit on the bridge to slow traffic down and make it easier to merge as turning left can also be a nightmare.
But what would really make life easier would be to put a roundabout at the intersection of Budge Street and Grove Road (like Nelson Street) as they work and so would one at Budge Street. One can only hope. Regards, M Whitmee.
Shear dedication as Duncan tallies 626 lambs:
The previous article explained that there were standards to be adhered to. Every lamb was examined and if it was not cleanly shorn then it was not tallied. There were no un-tallied lambs. He’s a pro. Deborah Pruden.
Outstanding effort Duncan, pretty damn good to have a brother and sister both holding shearing records. Lavinia and Mike Holland.
More highway summer maintenance in Marlborough: They need to fix the Northbank road, it’s been in the same condition and down to one lane in places for years. Sarah Deane.
The lady’s on the road are awesome and always nod or wave when u pass, so be patient especially today when it’s going to be super hot. Tui Caldwell.
Animal charity needs more hand to help:
Didn’t even know you had a shop, although I do now.. good to know to donate the clutter clear out. Elaine Johnson.
Went in today.. so much bigger than I thought and lots of great bargains. Bonus having lunch at Fat Tony’s next door! Louise Hide.
Good luck guys. Rosie who you allowed us to adopt her this week has already settled in well and a beautiful dog companion for Fred our other staffie. Amazing what you do and how much you care about fur babies. Jo Brown
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...
Next weekend is the Marlborough Food and Wine Festival, have you ever been?
Nikau Te Huki I haven’t been as I’m just visiting Marlborough, but I love food and I love music so sounds pretty good to me!.
Debbie Tunnicliffe I have been in the past when I was still living here permanently, and it’s was such a great event each year.
Belinda & Megan Botha We only emigrated here in March last year so just missed last year’s event, but we’re hosting friends for this year’s one so it’s exciting to see the whole event in action.
Dawn Neal I went along a long time ago, but I’m more of a Sunday market or concert kind of person now..
Out & About
1. Aimee Preston, Aroha Cherrie and Alex Preston
2. David Swanson, Aurora Corbyn, Addison Swanson, Rhian Corbyn and Riley Swanson
3. Courtney and Guy Brown
4. Maddison Fogarty and Fraser McEwan
5. Ella Joyce, Hannah Lamb, and Jono McClelland
6. Chris Brice, Brenda King, Izzy Brice and Austin Brice
7. Kerryn Dymock, Thomas Mcdonald, Pyper Mcdonald, TJ Dymock and Riley Dowling.
8. Matei and Hunter Matyas
9. Brad and Harrison Renner
Alex Roberton.
Kiwi Steel Rodeo Tour
Photos:
BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER • OPEN 6 DAYS
GREAT COFFEE, NZ CRAFT BEER ON TAP AND LOVELY LOCAL WINE. 03-929 3320 • 61 HIGH ST, RENWICK
SPORT
‘Jim’ handed leadership role
PETER JONES
The appointment of blockbusting Mako winger Timoci Tavatavanawai as co-captain of the Highlanders for Super Rugby Pacific certainly raised some eyebrows.
There is no doubting the physical prowess of the man, known in rugby circles as Jim, but he brings very little captaincy experience to the role, which he will share with Hugh Renton, and fills a position rarely associated with a leadership role.
Jim admitted he was somewhat surprised when advised of his new role last week by head coach Jamie Joseph.
“I wasn’t really expecting it,” said the man whose previous captaincy role was with his school side in Fiji.
“But I’m very grateful for the opportunity to lead the team,” he said, “it’s an honour to be chosen.
“I’m looking forward to the challenge, it puts me out of my comfort zone … I’m not a big talker so I will just lead with my actions, just concentrate on playing my footy and set a good example.”
Jamie, another man with Tasman connections, emphatically endorsed his leadership choices, saying, “Jim and Hugh embody the qualities we are looking for in our leaders –passion, commitment and the ability to inspire others with their actions or words … I believe they will complement each other well”.
Interestingly the only previous Highlanders skipper from the outside back division was Ben
Smith, appointed co-captain with Nasi Manu in 2014, the duo going on to win the title alongside Jamie a year later.
Nowadays, Ben and Nasi are among the Highlanders’ wider coaching personnel, providing handy sounding boards for Jim as he comes to grips with the leadership role.
“We have got the mana from the man himself [Jamie], plus Nasi and Ben as coaching staff … so they will all be a big help,” added Jim.
The powerhouse winger’s absence was keenly felt by Tasman at the back end of their recent NPC season, the Mako losing a couple of crucial matches when he was sidelined with a knee injury.
He says his rehab has been going very well and he has resumed full training.
“It’s been a long journey … that was certainly not the way I wanted the Mako season to end, but that is footy,” he add-
ed.
Now he can look ahead to the Super Rugby campaign and a chance to work closely with Hugh, a person he admires and played alongside at Tasman.
He says there is a good feeling in the Highlanders camp, with everyone “working their arses off every day” during pre-season preparation.
“We have got a great group of intelligent young men down here, off the field we get on really well with plenty of golf, hunting and fishing and exploring the outdoors … that is the way we connect.
“We have also got a really good fan base who love this team and the region, so it all helps.” Their first hit out is against Moana Pasifika in a pre-season match on January 31, then they open their 2025 season against the Waratahs in Sydney two weeks later.
Captain Crusader: Jim and Hugh are not the only
local news delivered to your inbox. Stay informed with what’s happening in Marlborough with a free weekly newsletter. Delivered to your inbox every Friday morning, the Marlborough App newsletter recaps the week that’s been while highlighting what’s coming up over the weekend. Visit the marlboroughapp.co.nz and enter your email address to subscribe!
men with Tasman connections to be handed the reins of Super Rugby sides this season, with David Havili being named captain of the Crusaders, completing a South Island quinella.
David succeeds Scott Barrett, who held the Crusaders’ captaincy for the past four years. “I was sounded out about it before going away on the All Blacks end of year tour, and had two or three weeks to think about it,” said David. “I discussed it with my close circle of friends and the Crusaders leadership group and, of course, I accepted it.
“I will have lots of support from Scott and Cody Taylor and other good people around me. I have filled in as captain for the Crusaders eight of 10 times over the years and it sems to bring out the best in my game,” he suggested. David led the Tasman Mako to back-to-back NPC titles in 2019-20.
Sport in brief
Golfers go well
Three young Marlborough golfers shone at the recent 2025 Canterbury Age Group Champs. Tasman Golf sent a team of five boys south to the event staged on January 20-21 - including Kobe Hart, Spencer Gregg and Harry MacNeill. After round one, Kobe led by two strokes on 72, Spencer was sixth and Harry 10th in the under-16 gross category, with Spencer leading the net category. After day two, Kobe claimed the gross title by two strokes, putting together a second round of 73, with Spencer eighth and Harry ninth. Spencer came fourth in the nett competition, Kobe sixth and Harry 17th.
Howzat!
Marlborough cricket umpire Dave Paterson has been appointed to New Zealand Cricket’s inaugural National Umpires and Scorers Advisory Group. Dave has given almost 30 years’ service to umpiring in Marlborough and throughout Central Districts and will be part of the new group which brings together NZC, Major & District Association personnel and key stakeholders from the umpiring and scoring community to focus on the development of umpires and scorers across the country.
New Highlanders’ co-captain Timoci Tavatavanawai in typical NPC action. Photo Shuttersport. Marlborough golfer Kobe Hart.
Cricket umpire Dave Paterson.
Renwick batsman Isaac Rawlings-Briggs took a positive approach to batting on Friday evening. Photo: Peter Jones.
T20 finalists confirmed
PETER JONES
Celtic will take on Wairau in the final of the senior Twenty20 competition after both sides scored wins on Friday evening.
With Celtic having previously booked their spot as top qualifier, Wairau needed a win over Renwick to ensure they played their part in the decider, scheduled for February 7. Although their clash came down to the last over, Wairau clinched a four-wicket victory and will battle a Green and Gold side that has lost only twice in the nine preliminary matches. One of those losses was to Wairau, but Celtic enjoyed two victories over their final rivals later in the season, suggesting the forthcoming final will be a tight affair.
On Friday, Renwick batted first on Horton Park three and scored a moderate 148-7. After the loss of early wickets, Isaac Rawlings-Briggs, 22 from 17, Cody Golding, 28 from 20, and Lachie Edwards with an unbeaten 24 from 22 ensured the Green Machine at least had something to bowl at. Both Zariab Karkaria, 2-25 from four, and Griffin Carter, 2-24 from four, picked up a brace of wickets. Wairau’s reply was consistent. Harry
Boyce’s 54 from 44 was a standout, while Sam Young, 29 from 23, and Carter with an unbeaten 25 from 20, provided substance as they went to the final over needing seven runs.
Two fours to Carter did the job, pushing them to 150-6 with two balls remaining.
On the number one ground, Celtic again defended a low score. Batting first they were able to muster only 114-8 in their 20 overs, but restricted Wairau Valley to 110-3 when their allocation ended.
Ben Holdaway, 22 from 20 and Jaden Adams with 20 not out from 17, were the main contributors for Celtic, with James Bell claiming 3-15 from four and Greg Stretch 2-14 from three.
In reply, Sam Boyce scored an unbeaten 53 from 51 for Valley and Luke Pannell compiled 24 from 32 but they struggled to create momentum against a steady Celtic attack and got behind the asking rate. Needing eight from the final over bowled by Hunter Ruffell for victory, they could only manage three singles, leaving Celtic winners by four runs.
Liam Young was the main wicket-taker with 2-14 from three, while Tom Sutherland, Holdaway and Ruffell all
bowled economically without snaring a wicket.
Topsy-turvy
Meanwhile, on Saturday afternoon, the unpredictable Town v Country series continued.
After being well beaten last weekend, Country quickly turned the tables on their urban counterparts, winning by five wickets at Horton Park.
In the 50-over white ball clash, Town batted first and were dismissed in 36 overs for just 171.
Opener Tarin Mason’s 54 from 57 and Griffin Carter’s 31 from 29 helped Town reach a reasonable total after the loss of four top order wickets, with Sam Boyce, 3-19 from seven, doing the early damage, then Piers Landon-Lane, 3-31 from six and James Bell, 2-33 from nine, completing the job. Country’s batting was more solid, anchored by an unbeaten 60 from 60 balls from youngster Benji Nation. Corey Bovey added 27 from 41, while Boyce, 37 from 85, batted responsibly to establish a vital 54-run partnership with Nation.
Country reached their target in the 37th over, finishing at 172-5. Karkaria, Joel Lavender and Carter were the pick of the Town attack.
Waikawa BC hosts successful regatta
PETER JONES
Changes to the previous format helped ensure the annual threeday Waikawa Boating Club New Year regatta was “a big success”. Waikawa BC spokesperson Clive Ballett said, “this is our flagship event of the racing calendar and the focus this year was on racing, racing and more racing, with a goal of getting more races started and less time bobbing around on the water”.
“We shook up the format somewhat, with a reduced entry fee, free crew entry, a mixture of round the buoys racing, sprint racing, harbour racing and long
harbour racing. Using a separate start and finish boat meant that more races could get underway across all three divisions.”
Nineteen boats entered across the three racing divisions, including visiting boats from Royal Port Nicholson YC, Nelson YC and Tasman Bays Cruising Club. Prizes were also awarded for line honours, PHRF and two-handed divisions across the fleet in addition to the conventional club handicap racing.
The event, staged from January 10-12, was sponsored by sponsored by Aon Insurance, New Zealand King Salmon and Marlborough Sounds Marinas, plus
additional prize sponsors Boomtown Brewing, Tempello Wines, Rockferry and DK Handy.
Overall regatta results: Division 1: 1 Astruso, Matt Mi-
chell (WBC) 18pts; 2 Last Sirrah, Martin Harris (WBC) 20pts; 3 Zimmerframe Racing Team II (RPNYC) 21pts.
Division 3: 1 Kayimai, Karen
Selway (TBCC) 8pts; 2 Felice, Michael Williams (WBC) 9pts; 3 War Paint, Bryce Ecklein (WBC) 14.
Division 4: 1 Nijinsky, Katharine Davis (WBC) 8pts; 2 Total Eclipse, Richard Coon (WBC) 10pts; 3 Cisco, Chris Shaw (WBC) 12pts.
PHRF Division 1: 1 Freaky, Rob Carpenter (WBC) 14pts; 2 Rocket Science, Justin Fletcher (NYC) 17pts; 3 Loco, Sam Edwards (WBC) 23pts. Two handed division: 1 Nijinsky, Katharine Davis (WBC) 8pts; 2 Felice, Michael Williams (WBC) 9pts; 3 Cisco, Chris Shaw (WBS) 10pts.
The Astruso crew took division one honours. Photo: Supplied.
Rep bowlers do the business
PETER JONES
“An amazing effort from both teams”, was how Marlborough senior bowls selector Shane O’Leary described the recent double victory over their Nelson counterparts.
For the past few seasons Nelson combinations have dominated the annual battle for the McKendry Cup and Masonic Trophy, but this year fortunes turned around dramatically at the Blenheim Bowling Club greens.
The 14-man Marlborough senior men’s team prevailed 10-2 to claim the McKendry Cup while the junior men’s reps finished locked together with Nelson but prevailed on countback to reclaim the Masonic Trophy.
Each team comprised two fours, two pairs and two singles players, all combination playing twice. At the lunch break the Marlborough senior side held a 4-2 lead, handy but hardly insurmountable.
However, after the break they produced some unstoppable bowls, winning all six games on the trot to claim the silverware for the first time in seven years.
“Nelson have strong clubs and a strong bowling fraternity so for us to do what we did was a mas-
sive effort,” said Shane.
In November, Marlborough were almost totally dominated by Nelson in the annual Noble Adams event at Murchison, finishing third, so to reverse that result so quickly was a thrill, said Shane.
“It was a huge turnaround, a whole team effort,” he said.
“I’m proud of them all. We have a good mix of young and old …
there were no standouts really, they just clicked and looked after each other.
“Bowls is a team sport … it is all well and good to have a team full of champions, but they might not be a champion team. These fellas just gelled well, played well and it was awesome to watch.
“It shows that we are well placed for the future and have some real
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depth.”
Junior selector Craig McDonell described it as “a great day for Bowls Marlborough”.
The Marlborough teams: Senior: Singles – Simon Hitchcock, Kevan Greenwood. PairsSteve Roberts/Ken Lond; Sanjhe Prasad/Damin Hitchcock. Fours - Josh Boyd (s), Max Brydon,
Nick
Pairs – Dave Barnes/Craig Smith, Kerry McNulty/Matt Collins. Fours – Barry Fishburn, Jordan Hart, Mike McFadden, Simon Hansen; George Arneson, Murray Logan, Al Humphrey, Andrew Bishell.
Tournament manager Brian Goodwin and Brooklyn Croquet Club president Peter Burt at the venue for the forthcoming tournament.
Marlborough’s Brooklyn Croquet Club will host the prestigious national GC+3 golf croquet tournament from Friday, January 31 to Sunday February 2. The tournament is designed to encourage emerging players with handicaps no lower than plus 3 to compete on a national basis.
This year’s event has attracted entrants from Auckland to Otago. Several top locals will also be in action,
including David Grigg, Sam Robinson and Michael Guillemot from the Blenheim Croquet Club, plus Peter Burt from the Brooklyn club.
The Brooklyn CC is situated at 15 Brooklyn Drive and games will commence from around 8.30am on Friday through to late afternoon on Sunday. The winner of the tournament receives the CNZ’s President’s Encouragement Salver.
Visitors are welcome to attend and watch the competition. Top croquet tournament to be played
Chase Bishop, Mark Grenfell; Salve Muollo (s), Ivan Munday, David Smit, Phil Guthrie. Junior: Singles –
Murrell, Taz Moanaroa.
The Marlborough senior men’s rep team with selector Shane O’Leary, holding the trophy. Photo: Supplied.
PETER JONES
Photo: Peter Jones.
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NICOLL, David Henry (Dave):
On Friday January 24, 2025 at Aberleigh Village, Blenheim. Aged 76 years. Eldest son of David Alexander Nicoll and Helen Margaret (née Jacobs) Nicoll. Devoted and loving husband of Rosalie for 48 years. Brother of Bob and Suzie, Alistair and Donald (both deceased), and Winston. Uncle of his nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews. Messages may be sent to 28 Brewer Street, Blenheim 7201. In lieu of flowers, a donation to St. John or Blind Low Vision NZ would be appreciated and may be made at the service. A service for Dave will be held at Havelock Cemetery, 1 Slogan Street, Havelock at 2pm on Thursday January 30. The service will be livestreamed and details may be accessed via our website www.sowmans.co.nz/upcoming-funerals
NICOLL, David Henry (Dave):
On Friday January 24, 2025 at Aberleigh Village, Blenheim. Aged 76 years. Brother of Morris and Midge (both deceased), uncle of Colin and Carolyn Nicoll, Daryl and Norman Knezovich, and their families (Perth, Western Australia).
CAMBRIDGE, Susan Jill (née Dorman):
On Sunday January 26, 2025, at Hospice Marlborough, with family at her side. Aged 77 years. Loved wife of the late Michael. Loved mother and mother-in-law of Caroline and Anthony Bowron, Olly and Catt, Annabel and Warren Jones, and Guy and Carolina. Loved Granny of Elizabeth, Ned and Matilda, Lavinia and Cordelia, Franco and Carmelo. Loved sister of Elizabeth and Simon. Messages may be sent to the Cambridge Family, 41 Murrays Road, Spring Creek 7273. A service for Sue will be held at the Church of the Nativity, Alfred Street at 11.30am on Thursday January 30, followed by private cremation at the Sowman Crematorium. The service will be livestreamed and details may be accessed via our website www.sowmans.co.nz/upcoming-funerals
EDGAR, Allan Thomas:
Ulysses No. NZ505, Railway No. 56752. Passed away at Hospice Marlborough on Sunday January 19, 2025, with family at his side. Aged 85 years. Loved husband of the late Patti, loved father and fatherin-law of Peter and Lisa, Wendy and Bryan, and the late John. Loved grandad and great-grandad. Messages may be sent to 4 Chelsea Way, Mayfield, Blenheim 7201. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Cancer Society and may be made at the service, or online to a/c 06-06010044826-00 Ref. EDGAR. A farewell service for Allan was held at Sowman’s Mayfield Chapel on Saturday January 25. A private interment took place at Kaikoura Cemetery.
DRAKE: John Alexander
On 24 January 2025, peacefully at Hospice Marlborough, aged 74 years. Dealy loved partner of Rosemary and a loving brother and brother-in-law of David and Margaret; Bruce and Rae; and Diane and Rod (all of Christchurch). Messages to Rosemary Finch c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at Christchurch Public Hospital and Hospice Marlborough. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Marlborough Hospice Trust would be appreciated and can be made via their website or at the service. A cremation has taken place with a Memorial Service to celebrate John’s life to be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street on Friday 31 January at 11.00am.
HARBORD; Hazel May
Peacefully at Hospice Marlborough, on Sunday 19th January 2025, aged 75 years. Loving wife of Michael, and devoted mother to her sons and family, Kelvin and Lisa; John and Lucy; James and Larissa, George, Geoffrey and Rose; plus grandchildren Zoe, Tahlia, Ashton and Estelle. Cut flowers by request. A thanksgiving service for Hazel was held on Friday 24 January. Messages to 15A Main Road, Havelock 7100 or email to hmnutmegs@ xtra.co.nz or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
RYAN: Michael George
On Sunday 19 January 2025 at Hospice Marlborough. Aged 82. A fabulous husband, friend, soulmate and work mate to Jan Bilton/Ryan. Great stepdad to Andrea O’Connor and Todd Bilton and best friend to their respective partners, Patrick and Rachel. ‘GPs and Mike’ to Alice, Emma, Johnny and Bruno. Very much loved by his Adelaide family: Trish, Sharon, Shaun, Mandy and Jessica. A generous and fun-loving friend to many. What a battler! We will all remember Michael for his intelligence, wit, word skills — and his books. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Marlborough Hospice Trust would be appreciated via its website. Messages to Jan Bilton, PO Box 5015, Springlands, Blenheim 7241 or www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz At Michael’s request a private cremation has been held.
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