Marlborough Weekly 27 February 2024

Enforceable speed limits for school zones

MAIA HART AND PAULA HULBURT

Speed limits are set to be enforced around Blenheim schools as council pushes for a 40kph limit. Twelve schools could see speed limits permanently lowered in

a bid to boost safety. The move comes as council ditched original plans to put a 30kph limit in place.

In a recent technical assessment report prepared for Marlborough District Council, specialist company LMC made short and

long-term speed change recommendations.

The changes are part of council’s 10-year speed management plan.

“Changes to speed limits will be on-going as development in the district continues and to achieve desired road safety outcomes with

respect to speed management,” the report says.

Schools in Marlborough currently have “variable” 40kph signs that police were not able to always enforce.

Under the plan, many of the advisory signs would be switched out

for enforceable speed limits. Most of these switches would take place at urban schools, while rural schools would continue to have advisory signs.

Continues on page 2

Blenheim’s Athletic Park was a blaze of colour on Friday as students from Marlborough Girls’ College put their

Distributed to more than 18,200 homes and businesses in Marlborough CONTACT US

News

Paula Hulburt paula@topsouthmedia.co.nz

William Woodworth william@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Peter Jones peter@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Advertising Sales

Rosa Tate rosa@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Summa Donald summa@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Alex Roberton alex@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Accounts accounts@topsouthmedia.co.nz

General Enquiries hellomarlborough@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Proud

| Ph 928 4121

Lower limits a boost to student safety

From the front

The Speed Management Plan part of an overall road safety goal of reducing deaths and serious injuries.

Originally the council consulted on lowering speeds to 30kph outside schools.

Assets and services chairperson

Brian Dawson said of all the decisions the panel ( Councillors Brian Dawson, Scott Adams and Barbara Faulls) had to make, school speed limits was the one

they “wrestled” with the most. He said it came down to a question about whether people would adhere to a 30kph sign.

“I think our worry was that at 30kph people would say that’s way too slow and just dismiss it and just think ‘I’m going to ignore it’,” he said.

AA say in New Zealand, approximately one child is killed walking or cycling to and from school a year. Thirty are seriously injured and more than 100 receive minor injuries.

Recent changes made to the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits, revoked deadlines and targets for reviewing speed limits around schools.

But Marlborough Roads senior transport planner Laura Skilton told the council’s assets and services meeting last month the plan was 90 per cent done.

“You will see I’ve updated the implementation plan in the speed management plan, to try and spread out the costs, so that the first three years will be the stuff

that we’ve identified that needs to be done.”

The draft Marlborough Speed Management Plan was put out for public consultation in June/ July 2023.

A total of 130 submissions were received, with 24 submitters wanting to attend a hearing. Nineteen submissions represented an organisation.

Rural drama and rugby benefit from funds boost

PAULA HULBURT

A Fijian rugby team and Marlborough students with a flair for the dramatic are set to benefit from a funding boost.

Five Top of the South community organisations have benefited from forestry company OneFortyOne’s community grants program this month.

The Marlborough Fijian Community received $1800 which supports their Covenant Brothers Team, a dedicated group of rugby enthusiasts, to participate in the Marlborough 7s, hosted by Navigation Pasifika.

REAP Marlborough received a $1800 grant which will help fund drama eduction for rural communities in Marlborough.

Education Adviser for REAP Marlborough Selena Tonks says the grant funding will allow them to deliver the drama workshops in six rural communities

in Marlborough.

“The performance will bring the community together as we use drama to learn about local Marlborough places and stories,” she says.

As well as having fun, students will learn new skills in a positive way which helps build resilience.

“The programs will be aimed at tamariki and students and along with having fun and learning a

Kaihautū joins Council

STAFF REPORTER

Johnny Joseph has joined Council as Kaihautū, responsible for facilitating partnerships with iwi and promoting collaborative and positive engagement with Māori within the Marlborough region.

Mayor Nadine Taylor warmly welcomed Johnny to the Council at a mihi whakatau this week.

“Council’s relationships with its iwi partners are extremely important and Johnny will support

us to strengthen and grow those relationships.”

“Council works with iwi in many different ways and we need to build our capability and develop practical frameworks for how we work together.”

“Johnny will provide guidance within Council so that our interactions are positive, respectful and mutually beneficial.”

new skill it’s also hoped it will help build student resilience and emotional regulation, leading to reduced stress and anxiety,” she says.

OneFortyOne’s Corporate Affairs Manager Kylie Reeves says the company is keen to support projects which benefit People, Ideas, Nature, Environment (PINE) in the form of one-off grants up to $5000.

“We assess the applications every two months, giving consideration to our objectives and impact – this ensures the process is fair, but otherwise we leave it to applicants to let us know what they need most.”

“This funding round we received applications from a diverse range of projects. The five successful organisations were chosen as it was felt that they would all make a big impact in the community in their own way.

“Since we launched in July 2021, we have supported 60 community projects in the region, contributing over $160,000 in funding and building materials through the community grants program,” Kylie says.

Other successful Top of the South grant recipients in February are: Hearing Association Nelson Inc: $5000; Tamaha Sea Scouts based in Mapua: $1430; Valley Stags Rugby Club: $2000.

Wairau born and bred and father of six, Johnny has worked as a Biodiversity Ranger Supervisor at DOC and General Manager for Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira. Johnny has a passion for te taiao

(the environment) and is a keen freediver and spearfisherman.

Mayor Nadine Taylor and Johnny Joseph. Photo: Supplied.

The Covenant Brothers Team have been supported by OneFortyOne. Photo: Supplied.

Rubbish treatment of river frustrates

WILLIAM WOODWORTH william@topsouthmedia.co.nz

A riverside resident is sick of finding rubbish and dumped offal on native reclaimed bush planted by her family.

The stretch of the Omaka River that runs along the back of the Walsh family’s vineyard off Dog Point Road is incredibly important to Hannah Walsh.

She has spent a lot of time over the years playing in the river, building huts and planting more than 7000 native plants.

But the family’s “little riverside oasis” which they have lived beside for generations is being ruined by people not showing the land the respect it deserves, Hannah says.

She is baffled by the disrespect shown to a place she holds dear to her heart.

“It’s not people just using the river and the banks, because I don’t blame people for wanting to enjoy this stunning river.

“It’s the couple of people disrespecting it that ruin things.”

From using the dry riverbed as a dumping ground for rubbish to ditching animal carcasses, the special spot is gradually being ruined.

“We as a family spent eight years clearing old man’s beard, wattle and willow from the banks and replaced it with kawakawa, kowhai, native flax, rimu, kauri and beech,” says Hannah.

“It’s even got irrigation if needed, it’s fully accessible for my dad who’s now a paraplegic after a motocross accident - it’s a little riverside oasis.”

The Walsh family have lived along the stretch of the Omaka since Hannah’s great-grandpar-

ents settled on a farm in the area which grandfather Bill turned into Highfield Estate Winery. But the waterway is changing and

Call out to chefs all in good taste

A culinary tutor is putting the call out for seafood savvy chefs to create a special dish to help celebrate an iconic Marlborough festival.

NMIT Te Pūkenga culinary tutor Chris Fortune is organising this year’s Te Pūkenga Festival Chef

competition held at the Havelock Mussel and Seafood festival. He hopes people of all abilities will step up to the challenge.

“We want to encourage amateurs, young chefs and professionals to put forward their best kai moana dish,” he says. Entries must highlight NZ King Salmon and/or NZ

Green-Shell Mussels.

Chris will be joined by Master Chef NZ Chef of the Year, Zennon Wijlens. “The festival is such a great opportunity to learn from people like Zennon,” Chris says. The winner of each division, under 18 or over 18, will take out the title, be awarded the annual tro-

phy and a selection of prizes. All applicants must complete and submit the registration form before to 29 February 2024. The festival will be held in the Havelock Memorial Park on 16 March 2024 between 10am and 6pm. For more information visit www.havelockmusselfestival.co.nz

Hannah spends afternoons clearing up empty beer cans and shifting fish into more suitable bodies of water to give them a better chance of survival.

“I definitely have an environmental streak which is probably why I’m taking this quite personallyI remember doing some quite intense climate change speeches at high school”, Hannah laughs. She says a now long-gone population of shorebirds called stilts were scared away as people encroached on their territory.

“…obviously coming across dumped offal is never a fun surprise either,” says Hannah.

“People literally just run over some of our growing native trees on the banks for no reason, and in parts it literally has been turned into a highway of sorts with river channels filled in because of collapsing stone banks into ponds.”

Hannah Walsh’s family have lived on the Omaka River’s banks for years, but she is sick of the “disrespect” of a place she holds dearly.

Photo: William Woodworth.

Renowned New Zealand chef, author and educator, Chris Fortune is looking for chefs of all ages and abilities. Photo: Supplied.

PAULA HULBURT

Hotel d’Urville’s transformation sets the bar for Blenheim’s dining and bar scene

flavours on offer.

Hotel d’Urville, one of the few remaining heritage buildings in the heart of Blenheim, was first transformed into boutique accommodation complete with restaurant in the early 2000s.

Built in 1923 and occupied by the Public Trust until the mid-1990s it has always been appreciated for its stately art deco style and, since becoming a boutique hotel, has been consistently lauded for its service and style.

A brand-new refurbishment has transformed the building anew and has both locals and visitors to the region buzzing with excitement.

Hotel Manager Michelle Bradley is thrilled with the response to the transformation.

“With a Jungle Lux theme, we wanted to create a welcoming, relaxed venue where the bar, restaurant and outdoor areas flow easily in a cohesive way and bring a vibrancy to the local dining and bar scene,” she says.

The restaurant is now named Taika (Maori for ‘tiger’) and serves Tapas in a Pacifica/Asian style.

“Tapas are a great way for diners to share food and try a variety of flavours and styles of food,” says Michelle.

“We are having a wonderful response to the change to this more relaxed type of dining with plenty of options available to suit all tastes.”

Dishes such as Panipopo, soft Samoan coconut buns with coconut sauce, Yellow Fin Tuna Ika Mata with cured tuna, coconut, lime, coriander served with taro crisps and Shaking Beef, a wok-tossed eye fillet with Japanese radish, broccoli, ginger and garlic, and black pepper offer a glimpse of the wonder of tantalizing

The Tempura Tiger Prawns with Kewpie Mayo, hot and sour sauce, ginger and garlic and the Scorched Hoisin Regal Salmon with smashed cucumber and chili, daikon and wakame are other dishes causing a sensation.

“We wanted this venue to be the centre of great hospitality in Blenheim and a place where people can come with friends, colleagues or whanau and feel like they are transported to another world by the experience,” says Michelle.

“It is somewhere to completely relax, unwind and enjoy the great service while having a fun dining or bar experience.”

Alongside the Taika restaurant is Bamboo Tiger, Blenheim’s only Jazz & Cocktail Bar in a 1930s Asian fusion style. Its sumptuous, elegant décor is the perfect place to experience a stunning range of cocktails, indulge in the tasty offerings from the bar menu along with great music.

“Make sure to keep an eye on our Facebook page for weekly live music every Friday night,” says Michelle. An outdoor bar, Tiki Hut, is available for drinks, dinning and can be hired out for functions and private events.

The transformation at Hotel d’Urville is a total step up for Marlborough, bringing a dynamism and excitement to the restaurant and bar scene which is also affordable.

“Although we get a lot of visitors from the rest of New Zealand and overseas, we wanted to create an experience that locals will enjoy coming to regularly,” says Michelle.

“The response has been even better than we expected and it is awesome to see our guests enjoying themselves so much.”

ADRIENNE MATTHEWS

News in brief

SEAWEEK CLEAN UP

Envirohub Marlborough are leading local coastline cleanups next week to acknowledge Seaweek. The Rarangi Cleanup on Sunday 3 March starts at Rarangi Community Hall, and the Picton/Shelly Beach Cleanup on Wednesday 6 March from 10.30am starting at the Picton Foreshore. Register for the cleanup by emailing info@envirohub.co.nz or register at www. envirohub.co.nz/event.

REAPING STUDY REWARDS

The next series of REAP Marlbroough courses are about to start, with the as well as the weekly Better Digital Futures for Seniors and the monthly First Aid Certificate revalidation courses. The next month sees the start of the Te Reo Māori March intake on the 28th and Ukulele for Beginners on March 4th, as well as part 3 of Spanish for Beginners on March 6th. For more information, go to www.reapmarlborough.co.nz.

MEET THE MAKERS

Join The Cranky Pantry at their new location in the Forum, 48 Market Street, this Thursday 29th Feb for an afternoon of tastings and learnings from the amazing people that produce a variety of outstanding food in Marlborough! Explore local produce with the local producers of cheese, coffee, garlic, curry spice kits, chutneys and more. Pop in store on Thursday, join our Cranky Pantry Club and go in to win a Cheese Gift Pack worth $65!

CUEING UP

Marlborough Snooker & Billiards Inc have opened their newest snooker venue, Jailhouse Snooker Hub, in central Blenheim. The new club, off First Lane next to Cotton On, contains six full sized snooker tables. The first evening introduced the club on Friday, alongside an afternoon introductory session on Sunday, and cue sports enthusiasts hope this bring a successful snooker hub to central Blenheim.

A VIEW OF HOME

Marlborough Art Society’ newest community exhibition Across the Motu. Local artists have been briefed to create something related to Aotearoa as a nation: land and seascapes, flora and fauna, explorations of history, legends, and current events across a variety of artistic mediums. “Across the Motu” opens with a preview on Friday 1 March at 6pm and then daily from 10.30am to 4.30pm from Saturday 2 March through to Sunday 17 March, with all artworks available for purchase.

Trio’s pool toy plan makes a splash

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

A trip to the dump has sparked a colourful business idea giving unwanted pool toys a new lease of life.

Young Enterprise Scheme ReFloat Bags is the brainchild of Marlborough Girls’ College students Bess Cuddon-Corlet, Laura Elliot-Whale and Sydney White.

The girls are putting their sewing skills to good use by making unique bags from recycled PVC, commonly used to make inflatable pool toys.

Now the entrepreneurial trio are asking for the public’s help to keep their business afloat with new material.

“The original idea I guess came from my Year 9 Textiles teacher who showed us a range of toiletry bags along the same lines, but last summer I noticed the amount of pool toys at the dump,” CEO Bess says.

“I pitched the idea to Laura and Sydney, and here we are.

“We’ve had lots of support from friends and family promoting what we’re doing to their colleagues and social circles, as well as Marlborough Cool Cat Chat. “We’re hoping having the drop off points now means more people can know about us and do-

nate materials.”

The three good friends say they almost had positions decided for them, with Bess as the CEO and most experienced sewer, Laura handling the financial side as chief financial officer and Sydney having experience with marketing.

The girls have included a fitting philanthropic side to their business, with 15 per cent of proceeds being donated to Surf Life Saving New Zealand.

“We wanted to give back to our community in more ways than just collecting rubbish, and thought it would be a pretty apt

tie-in”.

And while the team isn’t sure what will happen when they finish college at the end of this year, ReFloat has sparked a shared interest in combining business and fashion.

“I think we work really well together because we complement each other’s skills, and after we started studying business it was a no-brainer to work together on one”, says Bess.

“I learnt to sew from both of my nanas and grew up doing it, but Laura and Sydney have picked it up last year so it’s a real team effort.”

A legacy of love

An appeal set up to honour the memory of murdered backpacker Grace Millane is helping women in Marlborough. The nationwide Love Grace Handbag Appeal helps victims of domestic abuse by collecting handbags containing essential items.

It’s an annual appeal that almost saw Marlborough miss out, says Volunteer Marlborough Manager Meg Martin. She noticed the region was lacking a collection point and stepped in to help.

“The lovely Katie Phillips over at Herb and Olive originally volunteered to collect donations unofficially and take them to Nelson, but we asked further and found that whatever was donated in Nelson would be used in Nelson”, Meg says.

“We then requested to be an official donation site so Marlborough’s women in need would be benefitted directly by what gets do-

nated here. Grace’s fondness for handbags saw her family and friends create the initiative as a legacy in her name. Meg says she has been blown away by the response in Marlborough so far.

“The list was broken up into essentials, nice-tohaves, and luxuries - but some donations have just included the whole list which is incredibly generous.

“Women that need the assistance have said that having everything they need instantly in a bag full of basic essentials to help them get back on their feet takes so much stress away at what is already a very hard time for them.

“We’re obviously just a drop-off point, but I’m so glad to be involved.”

Women’s Refuge Marlborough manager Rachel Black says that while the appeal is in memory of Grace, it’s also a reminder that domestic violence against women happens all the time in New

Zealand.

“Knowing that these bags are coming from the community with goodwill and kindness behind the donations means it’s so much more special for us to hand them out,” says Rachel.

“We have a generous group of donors, and a generous community overall here in Marlborough but sometimes we don’t have everything we want to supply women in need.

“We hope the bags give women in need a sense of support from the community, crucial supplies that help bring a sense of normality to their lives and a lovely bag they most definitely deserve.”

The Year 13 students are looking at future options, they’re focused on learning and improving while they have the opportunity.

“While we’re not sure what happens next year, the amount of donations and support we’ve had so far from not just Marlborough but from contacts across other regions has been really encouraging, so we’ll wait and see,” Bess says.

Donate your unwanted PVC pool toys to ReFloat Bags at Envirohub Marlborough on Auckland St, Picton, or Marlborough Youth Trust on Kinross Street, Blenheim.

ReFloat Bags entrepreneurs Bess Cuddon-Corlet, Sydney White and Laura Elliot-Whale are turning old pool toys into waterproof bags, and want the community’s help sourcing unused inflatables.

Photo: William Woodworth.

Volunteer Marlborough manager Meg Martin alongside two donated bags for the Love Grace Handbag Appeal. Photo: William Woodworth.

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

Marlborough council proposes draft rates rise of 12.6 per cent

MAIA HART Local Democracy Reporter

Marlborough’s council says it has no plans to cut back on its services, meaning ratepayers face a draft rise of 12.63 per cent.

Marlborough mayor Nadine Taylor said it was a challenging time financially for councils.

“Like every council in New Zealand, we are facing increased costs due to factors outside our control, such as inflation, contract price increases, the on-going impact of damaging storms and the lasting effects of the Covid pandemic,” Taylor said.

Councillors would get around the table to discuss the proposed rates rise on Monday at a longterm plan meeting, which will also look to set out priorities for the next decade.

A report prepared for the LTP meeting last Monday said a large chunk of the rates rise (5.11 per cent) was down to the council needing to start paying off money it had been dipping into to keep

The

rates down during Covid.

It planned to repay this $12.8 million Covid rates relief over 20 years. It would also look to sell $4.5m in carbon credits to help keep this year’s rates down.

The roll-out of wheelie bins in the region was only bumping rates up 0.68 per cent.

But council would continue to invest in core infrastructure, Nadine said, “because we don’t want to see Marlborough going backwards”.

“Over the next 10 years our investment in infrastructure will be $790m, which is $85m more than our previous 10-year plan, from 2021 to 2031.”

The council would spend $80m on infrastructure in the next year.

Some projects in the LTP report that could impact the final rates rise included a new A&P Park pavilion ($3.7m), expected to start in 2026, a new Riverside Park boardwalk and lighting system ($493,600), stopbank repairs in Spring Creek ($8.7m), Taylor and lower Ōpaoa River dredging

Dental Prosthetic SPECIALISTS

($800,000 compared to the usual maintenance budget of $180,000 each year), new IT systems and websites for the Marlborough Museum and the Edwin Fox Museum ($198,000).

A proposal to increase parking charges in Blenheim’s central business district could bring rates down.

However, “one of the most significant items” on Monday’s agenda was the Marlborough Sounds Roading Funding Recovery, Na-

dine said. Councillors would discuss and decide on the preferred options for funding the region’s share of the $234 million repair and improvement costs, “so that we can get on with the job of fixing the Sounds’ roads”, she added. The New Zealand Transport Agency-Waka Kotahi agreed to pay 71 per cent of the cost of repairs, and 51 per cent of road improvements, subject to further detailed design work, leaving

Marlborough with $106m to pay. A lot of that cost won’t kick in until the region has decided how to spread the bill across ratepayers. Options for paying for Marlborough Sounds roads

- Do nothing (which means NZTA won’t release funding)

- Split the cost across all of Marlborough

- Split the cost across the Sounds (excluding Picton and Havelock)

- Split the cost across different zones within the Sounds

- Split the cost across different zones within the Sounds, with the rest of Marlborough contributing (preferred option)

The Long Term Plan 2024/2034 will go out for public consultation from April 4 to May 6 and include public meetings and hearings. Dates and locations to be confirmed.

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ on Air.

Celebrating Marlborough’s colourful cultures

Marlborough’s annual celebration of the many cultures which create a community is back with another free community party.

The Marlborough Multicultural Festival on 9 March will again be a highlight of the region’s cultural calendar.

And organisers and hosts from the Marlborough Multicultural Centre (MMC) hope the 2024 event will be by far the largest festival yet. Events Manager Marcelo Gonzalez and event coordinator Ewa Zielinska say the annual Pollard Park festival is a great way to learn about other cultures.

“We’re so excited, as is the community. We sold out of spaces for our 56 stalls over a week ago, and last year’s event saw around 5000 people come through throughout the day.

“The entertainment and the stalls will have something for everyone from local kapa haka groups and choirs to individual performers, and this year we even have groups travelling down to be a part of the festival from Auckland.

“Seeing the variety of sup-

port from across Marlborough last year come was amazing…”

With this year’s event including 56 stalls and over 200 performers representing different countries and cultures, the hosts are confident there is something for everyone.

“The whole leadup to this event is a wonderful celebration of belonging and community connection,” Ewa says.

“Whether people are involved in performances or stalls, or just coming along, we really encourage people to stand proud, and both teach and learn something.

“It’s always a blast on the day.” The Multicultur-

al Centre organisers says they couldn’t do the Festival without the support of the Marlborough District Council, community organisations and cultural groups.

“The Festival is MMC’s premier event, not only for its entertainment value but also for its role in fostering unity and celebrating the cultural diversity of the Marlborough community”, says inaugural organiser Margaret Western.

“As our province becomes increasingly diverse, we believe that the connections formed at events like these are crucial to building social cohesion and promoting inclusivity.”

“Marlborough is proud to be

an inclusive, connected and welcoming community with rich and diverse cultural diversity”, says Council events advisor Samantha Young.

“The festival celebrates all the wonderful cultures and communities that call Marlborough home and provides a fantastic opportunity to promote unity in diversity.

“It also enables our ethnic communities the opportunity to share and showcase their cultures to their friends, families and greater Marlborough community”.

The Marlborough Multicultural Festival is at Churchill Glade, Pollard Park, Blenheim on Saturday the 9th of March from 11am until 3.30pm.

Marlborough District Council chief executive Mark Wheeler. Photo: Supplied/Stuff.

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

The Marlborough Multicultural Festival brings together a wealth of different backgrounds and generations. Photo: Supplied.

Marlborough business mentors buzzing

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

Business savvy students have been making the most of a chance to meet with local mentors.

As part of the Young Enterprise Scheme’s (YES) first event, KickStart, 70 Business Studies students from Marlborough Boys’ and Girls’ Colleges met with 20 local mentors.

Organisers are impressed with the range of entrepreneurial ideas being brought to the table.

YES Top of the South Regional Coordinator Trina Zimmerman and Event Coordinator Kelsie Skelton say support is key to the success of the initiative.

“This is our fourth year running the Young Enterprise Scheme here in Marlborough.

“We really rely on the buy-in we get from all local business communities who take time out of their day to assist with our mentoring schemes, open opportunities and help when and where they can”, says Trina.

Ideas include locally sourced produce cookbooks, recycled pool toy bags, shoe charms built for

laces and the reclamation of wine barrels for home décor.

Mentors were impressed by the variety and depth of the ideas that students brought to the table.

“It’s really interesting to see the passion of young entrepreneurs challenging themselves by developing businesses”, said GeoInsight’s Rob Desaans.

“We’re going through similar processes that the students are

to develop their businesses, so connecting with them and sharing lessons has been really insightful.”

McKendry Advisors’ Kim Hamilton says both the students and mentors benefit from the process.

“Students are always going to be our future, so it’s a real two-way street when we connect with the opportunity to learn from one another.

“The engagement and passion I saw from groups I spoke with was just amazing, there’s real entrepreneurial spirit shining through already.”

Leanne Hayes from Vanilla Hayes says students starting to learn to be innovative through the Young Enterprise Scheme from school age is a wonderful opportunity. “It’s really interesting to press a bit further and examine what

they see as key problems and solutions and why they think that – I wish I had the chance to do it at school.”

YES alumni include the founders of Xero, Charlies, Eat My Lunch, Kea and Give a Little.

For Trina and Kelsie, the first task is to get students to brainstorm and validate their business pathways with experienced businesspeople who then help strengthen plans.

“It’s amazing to see the development of the kids as they can ask questions in a safe, constructive space.

“People give advice from an external point of view and build confidence with their confidence through their public speaking and marketing conversations,” expands Kirsty.

Many of the mentors came out of the day “buzzing” from the ideas pitched and the enthusiasm shown by students.

There are four more challenges ahead spread throughout the year – including more chances to speak to Blenheim’s business community.

Restoring community spirit

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

A monthly volunteer repair shop’s bid to keep waste products out of landfill is fast becoming a bastion of community spirit.

The Repair Café, set up in Marlborough by Gerrie Mead, Stephen Leitch, Richard Dyer and Konrad Cross, sees volunteers put their repair skills to the test.

And the once-a-month fix-it feature is taking off with both volunteers and people keen to see if their broken items can be saved, The Café runs on donations for the service, with volunteers

working with a variety of items from electronics, power tools and home appliances to sewing repairs and blade sharpening.

If an item cannot be repaired, parts are retained and reused in other projects where possible.

Stephen says he has always had a fascination with how things work.

“My father and brothers were engineers and while I’m not, the fascination of taking stuff apart was something I was always interested in, and that lends itself to putting things back together again too,” says Stephen.

“The sense of purpose you get of putting something back together for someone and seeing the relief and happiness on their face when the hairdryer starts blowing again or the drill restarts is so worthwhile.

“…seeing people come in to volunteer, get repairs or just for the sense of the community helping with greetings and coffees and chats is exactly what we wanted.”

Many Café volunteers say they were originally invited along to get something fixed but have since been recruited to help with repairs and decided to volunteer their services for the community’s benefit.

Councillor Deborah Dalliessi, was at the Repair Café to get a torn leather jacket sewn, and found herself recruited to help recycle a coffee machine.

“Both Repair Café and Crossroads bring together our community in an amazing way where they make the absolute most of what they can and help educate and provide Marlborough with ways how not to be a ‘throwaway’ society”, she says.

“When taking something to get fixed in stores costs nearly as much as getting something new, reusing is

really vital to helping our entire region’s recycling programme. “It’s a positive way to use the community’s skills to help one another.”

Deborah says that the Repair Café gives an incredible cross-section of Marlborough, because the conversations between people crosses many community and intergenerational boundaries.

“The two portfolios I decided I wanted as a councillor were community engagement and recycling and waste management, and I believe our community has

the solutions to many problems.

“Places like the Repair Café, Jack’s Kitchen providing meals, and Crossroads crop swaps are living proof of community spirit in action.

“It’s so more than just dropping something in and leaving, you’re invited in for a coffee and a chat with the person helping to fix what you brought, and it inspires you to start looking around and go ‘oh, I can help with that’. ”

Repair Café takes over Crossroads every 4th Saturday of the month from 9am-midday.

The MGC Old Library played host to the first event of the 2024 Young Enterprise Scheme in Marlborough. Photo: Young Enterprise Scheme. Photo: Supplied.

A coffee machine demolition team of David, Daisy, Andrew, Joseph, Casia and MDC Councillor Deborah Dalliessi.

Photo: William Woodworth.

Out & About

1. Claudilia, Wendy and Nina Odom

2. Josh, Ella and Esme Foster

3. Larry Allison

4. Maighan Watson and Holly Siemonek

5. Mila Walker and Kim Rogers

6. Emma Archer and Vanessa Tomlinson

7. Carol McLean, Verena Frei and Ash Illen

8. Leighton Neal, Chloe and Grayson Van der Bergh

Marlborough Farmers Market

4

2

7 6

3

Opinion

MORE VACANT SHOPS AS BLENHEIM CBD CHANGES SHAPE

We can’t continue to blame council, rent prices and Westwood. Yes they’re impacting factors but so is online shopping. We are in a financial crisis post pandemic, businesses are closing all over the town not just CBD. Simply decreasing rent isn’t that simple. What we should be focusing on is collectives and seeing businesses collaborate together to enter the CBD and work together to boost industry rather than struggle in competition. The big question has to be what do you as the public want because if there’s talks of parking going to make room for activations there’s huge complaints. If there’s events in town there’s always unhappy people. There’s town planners and investors constantly discussing Blenheim but without the regions support there’s never going to be change.

Hannah Lamb

It’s not really a surprise, some of the rent prices are insane, it’s almost worth heading to a city with actual foot traffic and paying a bit more to have a store.

Aidan Treston

DISC GOLF ROOKIE A NATURAL

So nice to see RVS in the news for sport! Well done, Rochell.

Emma Vienings

Congrats Rochell!!! Thats so awesome!

Sam N Christie Rentoul

FORMER CLUB EMPLOYEES MISS OUT ON MONEY OWED

This is absolutely appalling! What the hell where the owners doing to get into such a mess? The fraudulent ANZ having to take their cut over people’s lives bloody typical... all mortgages are fraud anyway...they need to

take this to Common Law Court..(there is one now operating in the Waikato)...keep fighting for justice people!

Sonia Maria

There needs to be a law change stating that all and any employees get paid before the liquidator takes a single cent themselves. We can all bet they don’t liquidate for free.

John Heslin

How can this Club go broke owing over $6mil. Surely, they should of stopped trading long before they were that much in debt. It’s a shame. I thought Clubs of Marlborough was a good set up.

Pat Dooley

Tracey

SeniorS’ Expo SeniorS’ Expo Mark Your Calendar: World Hearing Days and Seniors’ Expo

Two important events are coming up in early March that will be of particular interest to the senior members of our community.

First off is World Hearing Day on March 3. Established by the World Health Organisation in 2007, it’s aim is to raise awareness around the globe of the importance of maintaining good ear and hearing health, what can be done towards preventing deafness and the difficulties faced by the hearing impaired.

The theme of this year’s day is ‘Changing Mindsets: Let’s make ear and hearing care a reality for all’. There are many misconceptions about hearing and this

is a good reminder that we all need to take care of this precious sense which is so important to the way we experience the world.

If you have the slightest suspicion that you or a loved one may have a hearing problem, this day should remind you to get the issue investigated. There is always new technology coming on stream to assist those with hearing difficulties and it is vital to keep up to date with what is available from your local hearing practitioner. It is often said that the age of sixty-five can be the new fifty. With so many options now available for the seniors in our community to expand their world, there is every reason to get along to the annual Seniors’ Expo, run by the Marlborough

District Council.

Held on Tuesday March 5 at the Marlborough Events Centre next to the ASB Theatre from 9am to 1pm, this free event is a wonderful opportunity for those who have given over the rigours of regular employment to discover the wide range of local activities, health and well-being support available.

It is aimed at the whole of the community including friends, whanau and supporters who are very welcome to attend.

Always a well-attended event, this year’s Seniors’ Expo is bringing even more activities and groups to spike attendee’s interests with popular stalls returning along with a number of new ones, making up over fifty in all.

The

March 5 Tuesday March 5 Tuesday March 5 Tuesday March 5 Tuesday

Amongst the wide range of exhibitors are community health organisations, health and well-being programmes, advice and legal services. As with previous years a small number of health checks will be available on the day.

It can be a big shock for some when they reach retirement age, especially if they have been in the workforce their whole working lives in workplaces often surrounded by others.

One of the results can be loneliness. This can be exacerbated

when children and other family members are scattered across other parts of the country and around the globe, leading to a sense of isolation.

Most of us thrive on a sense of belonging and if we are in this position, it can lead to poor mental health, including depression.

Amongst many other things, the Seniors’ Expo will celebrate community and connection, providing information on local organisations and events to become involved with so as to meet new

friends and try new activities.

A whole new world can open up from discovering an activity you haven’t thought of trying previously and this can bring a fresh social circle, fun and camaraderie along with it. Nutrition, preventative care and exercise information will be available and it will be a chance to talk to professionals and learn about the latest advancements in healthcare.

Staff from the new library, Marlborough Library Te Kahu o Waipuna, will be on hand to explain its many services and features along with legal organisations who will be able to provide information on elder law, trusts, financial and other legal entities. Marlborough has a large range of social services available and the Expo is a great way to learn more about these, how to access support and advice and what entitlements are available.

A representative from the Citizens Advice Bureau and Neighbourhood Support will be on hand with their computer to teach attendees how to use the

Marlborough Community Directory to find services, groups and activities online while emergency organisations will provide information on how to be prepared for unseen events and look after yourself and your neighbours if a disaster should occur.

Put March 5 on the calendar now. Get a group of friends, neighbours or family together and consider inviting people who are new to the area or on their own to join you. The event will be interesting

and informative refreshments will be provided.

It is worth taking along a list of any questions you may have to ask the professionals on hand. Make it a morning to enjoy the company of others while gaining a load of great information about some of the fantastic opportunities to help give your life a new spark along with filling in those knowledge gaps about important issues you may not previously have thought of.

Revolutionizing logistics: KAM’s cutting-edge hub

An exciting development for Marlborough is taking place at 40 Waters Avenue, Burleigh with the establishment of a brand-new transport hub owned and managed by notable national transport and logistics company KAM Transport Ltd.

KAMs state-of-the-art facility is designed to seamlessly integrate various solutions to meet their customers’ diverse business needs.

Family owned and operating in NZ for the last 120 years with 30 years’ experience in the warehousing and distribution industry, KAM transports all manner of goods to factories, warehouses and retail outlets throughout the country while seeing to all the associated logistics on behalf of their clients.

Their facility is equipped to handle large-scale bulk transport requirements efficiently.

The KAM warehouse has ded-

icated areas and specialised equipment to ensure the safe and secure storage and transportation

of bulk goods, whether it’s raw materials or finished products.

KAMs’ storage facility is compli-

ant with all necessary regulations for food storage and transportation, along with a prioritised

temperature-controlled environment, ensuring the freshness and safety of the customers’ food products throughout the supply chain.

South Island Branch Manager Jack Erasmus, and the KAM team are excited about the development.

“The company realised that there was a need for a specialised hub in the top of the south with a comprehensive range of facilities that will enable businesses to operate with greater efficiency” he says.

“With 6000sqm of warehousing and another 8000sqm of yard we can handle an enormous amount of incoming and outgoing freight.”

KAM’s Picton facility has been transferred to the multi-functional Waters Avenue Hub, which will facilitate transportation, warehousing, cross docking, distribution of goods, container vanning, and devanning and specialised rework.

STAFF REPORTER

Stu Livingstone and Jack Erasmus are excited to be opening the multi-functional logistics hub in Waters Avenue. Photo: Summa Bruning.

NEW LOCATION: 40 Waters Avenue, Burleigh

Jack continues to point out the facility will be adept at managing container services, offering a onestop solution for loading, unloading, and storing containers.

KAM Transport optimises container movements, streamlines processes, and provides real-time tracking, ensuring that all containers move efficiently through

their facility.

“The wine industry will be one of the many industries that will benefit substantially from such a facility” says Jack.

“We are here to ensure product is handled efficiently from the moment it is collected or arrives in our warehouse to the moment it is dispatched.

“Our substantial storage capacity means we can distribute on behalf of the companies, leaving them to get on with their core business.

“We will ensure our clients and their goods are handled efficiently and with the greatest of care and attention to detail.”

At KAM Transport, the unique

challenges of the food industry are fully understood, and every step is taken to work with customers to ensure solutions and positive outcomes.

Jack states that the flexible solutions they will be able to offer can adapt to any changing

requirement.

The KAM Transport & Logistics business has been extremely successfully in other parts of the country for some time, the formula is in place to make this venture a success for Marlborough and its businesses.

KAM offers complete container services. Photo: Supplied.

No job too big or too small for the dedicated KAM team. Photo: Summa Bruning.

Rai Valley A&P Show

Saturday 2nd March

The biggest little show in the district celebrates 88 years

Showcasing the region's finest offerings, organisers of the 2024 REM Ltd Rai Valley A&P Show eagerly look forward to a classic community day out on March 2.

Established in 1933 the show is now in its 88th year, and along with the traditional elements of entertainment and competitions, secretary and treasurer Libby Archer says there are a few exciting additions this year.

“The Cattle Section is making a comeback, there are new classes in the vintage section, there will be Steam Punk Best Dressed, and the Best Mullet Competition – a popular fundraiser for Mental Health –will take place. People need to enter at the office before 1pm. Public judging will be from

1-3pm and winners will be expected to be on stage at 3:30pm for prize-giving. Our Giant Pumpkin Competition has become quite the talking point! There have been tonnes of jokes and laughs about the comp, about people needing a forklift to carry their produce, and the competitiveness is definitely heating up! We gave out loads of free seedlings, grown by a local, so we are expecting a lot of giant pumpkins!”

Drawing hundreds of excited attendees, there will be a range of indoor competitions, fancy dress, and more trade and food stalls than ever before for everyone to enjoy.

“Preparations are well underway for the big day and so many people have dedicated

countless hours to building an awesome show. There are Show Jumping sections, and a new Pleasure horse section in the equestrian,” says Libby.

“We also have the Harcourts Really Young Farmer Contest, and our always popular Wood Chopping competition. Our famous Terrier Race is also back, which will be great fun! We have the dog obstacle course, which is new, and the pet tent is always a big attraction.”

President Justin Morrison has been involved with the show for the last couple of years and looks forward to seeing the community attend.

"There is something for everyone! Cattle, sheep, fancy dress, dogs and equestrian events. Woodchopping, vin-

tage vehicles and machinery including cars from the Blenheim model A club.

It is a traditional A&P show, with all the amusement rides, but if you haven't been before you need to check out the famous Rai Challenge, it's a real crowd favourite"

The Rai Challenge has been an integral part of the Rai Valley A&P show for nearly twenty years. A fun event where men, women and children of all ages compete in their relevant sections to navigate an obstacle course while carrying a pig – or a possum for the kids.

Tickets will be available at the gate and the Grand Parade kicks off at 12:30 when all place winners are expected to be in attendance.

PETER JONES peter@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Renwick continued their unbeaten run in the Marlborough senior 40-over competition with another victory on Saturday.

On the Horton Park one wicket, the Green Machine downed Wairau Valley by three wickets.

Valley batted first, amassing 2089 from their full allotment, Renwick reaching their winning target for the loss of seven wickets in the final over.

Valley’s total was anchored by allrounder Sam Boyce, who scored an unbeaten 89 from 102 balls. He was well supported by Eddie Swan, 38 from 35, and Richard Petrie, the former Black Cap scoring 25 from 27. Mike Anstis, Fred Suluoto and Rikki Bovey claimed two wickets apiece. Renwick’s reply began strongly, openers Piers Landon-Lane (22 from 34) and veteran Andrew

Marshall putting on 46 for the first wicket.

When Landon-Lane departed, Bovey came to the crease and scored freely, totalling 79 from 75 balls, while Marshall ended with 64 from 76, the pair’s 94-run partnership setting up a successful chase.

Although Renwick lost late wickets they entered the final over needing four runs and got there with two balls to spare.

Boyce, 2-25, and Petrie, 3-44 from eight, were the most successful bowlers.

On the number three ground, Wairau cantered to a nine-wicket win over the Falcons.

Batting first, the Falcons stuttered their way to 126 all out in the 34th over. Luke Holdaway was the main contributor, scoring 46 from 74 balls to hold the innings together. Yadwinder Hundal, 36 from 31, also helped the cause.

For Wairau, Hunter Ruffell was

Renwick maintain momentum

the chief destroyer, taking 4-15 from six, while Griffin Carter claimed 3-43 from eight. Ruffell also featured in his side’s batting effort, scoring an unbeaten 59 from 39 balls opening the innings. Andrew McCaa weighed in with an unbeaten 38 from 33 as Wairau got the job done quickly, racing to 129-1 in the 15th over.

College clash

Early last week Marlborough

Boys’ College First XI hosted their St Thomas of Canterbury counterparts at Oliver Park. The sides squared off in a two-day encounter, which was eventually won outright by the visitors. St Thomas won the toss and elected to bat in hot conditions. The local side battled to make in-

roads as St Thomas declared with 300-7 on the board. Archie Corneluis claimed 2-48 from 14 overs, while Sam Young took 2-59 from eight.

By the end of the first day MBC were reasonably well placed at 148-4 but after losing top scorers Young, 40, Luke Holdaway, 37, and Ben Armstrong, 37, they were dismissed for 207.

In their second innings St Thomas pushed for quick wins in a bid to force an outright and were eventually bowled out for 188, McWilliam bagging 5-42 from six overs and Cornelius 3-60 from 10.

Chasing 281 for an outright victory MBC gave it a good shake. Their effort was led by Young who underlined his growing reputation with 86 from 108 balls. He was helped by Holdaway with 46, completing a good double, and Lachie MacNeill, with 26, however the home side fell well short, being dismissed for 209.

Rowing success at national champs

PETER JONES

Marlborough athletes enjoyed a successful time at the New Zealand Rowing Championships, staged over five days at Lake Karapiro recently.

Fred Vavasour, after training all summer with the Wairau squad, rowed under the Avon banner and enjoyed a superb regatta, the NZ under-21 rower claiming gold in the men’s under-22 pair and senior coxless four, plus silver medals in the premier and senior eights. Tom Murray also

won gold, as part of the victorious premier eight, while Robbie Manson won gold in the premier double and silver in the single scull. Robbie has won the men’s double now for a record 10 times and claimed his 20th Red Coat. Although these athletes rowed for various clubs, under the new nationals draft format, the Wairau club were well represented.  Youngsters Emma Flanagan, Lexi Timpson, Jessica Bennet and Hazel Glover claimed silver medals in the club coxless four and as part of a composite club eight.

For Emma and Lexi it was their first year out of school, while Jess and Hazel are still secondary students. “It’s not every day you win two silver medals at your first na-

tional rowing champs as school girls – an awesome week, an awesome experience”, said Hazel. Kirstyn Goodger, also representing the Wairau club, won bronze

in the women’s premier eight, while Edwin George won silver in the premier quad.  At the conclusion of the event four Wairau rowers were selected to trial for the New Zealand under-21 squad – Emma Flanagan, Fynn Allison, Liam Collins and Ashley-James Fitzgerald.  After a series of trials at Karapiro, Emma, Fynn and Liam were named in the squad to take on their Aussie counterparts in Sydney during May. Kaye Surgenor was also named as one of the under-21 men’s coaches.

Renwick medium pacer Archie Cornelius steams in against Wairau Valley at Horton Park on Saturday. Photo: Peter Jones.

The Wairau women’s four of Hazel Glover, Emma Flanagan, Lexi Timpson and Jessica Bennet who won silver at Karapiro, with coach Kaye Surgenor. Photo: Sharron Bennett Photography.

Marlborough got the better of holders West Coast in the annual Winstanley Shield Challenge at Pollard Park recently, but were unable to hold off Nelson, who took home the prized trophy.

The two-day event, which has been running for 40 years, sees the top senior tennis players from Nelson, West Coast and Marlborough battle for supremacy in singles, doubles and mixed doubles.

The Marlborough team consisted of Ant Walkenhorst, Jared Bell, Sebastian On, Donna Clark, Amber Lyons and Heidi Stenhouse-Allen.

Against Nelson, Marlborough lost 5-3, Ella and Amber winning singles, while Donna and Amber

claimed a hard-fought doubles victory 4-6, 6-3, 12-10 over Annette Bormolini and Claire Williamson.

A crucial match was the mixed double involving Donna and Jared against Annette and Oscar Symonds which went down to the wire, the Nelson duo eventually prevailing 6-4, 2-6, 10-8. Marlborough had a 7-1 win over West Coast, who Nelson downed 6-2, meaning Nelson took the honours, and the shield with 11 points to Marlborough’s 10. West Coast finished with three points.

President’s grade

The semifinalists have been decided in the WK+ Presidents Grade, with the play-offs to take place this week, followed by the finals on March 5.

In division one top-placed Rapaura Just Move (50) will take on fourth-placed Marlborough Chilli (34), while second-placed Rapaura Masters (48) will meet Renwick Racketeers (42) in the other semi.

In division two, Marlborough Volleyeurs (46) will play Renwick Rookies (34) and Marlborough Swallows (40) will tackle Rapaura Pinot (38.5).

The third division semis will feature Renwick Re-Strung (55) against Renwick BTL (35.5) and Rapaura Floorpride (52) against Rapaura Hākinakina (40) in the battle for the other final position .

WK+ Presidents Grade final round results, February 20: Division 1: Marlborough Chilli 0 Rapaura Just Move 4; Renwick

Nelson claim Winstanley Shield

Netsetters 0 Rapaura Triple Fault 4; Rapaura Wairau River 1 Marlborough Power 3; Renwick Four Strung 0 Renwick Racketeers 4.

Division 2: Renwick Miss Hits 1 Marlborough Volleyeurs 3; Marlborough Tennis the Menace 0 Rapaura Newhawkes 4; Marlborough Swallows 3 Renwick Rookies 1; Rapaura Mavericks 2 (30) Rapaura Matador 2 (24).

Division 3: Renwick Re-Strung 4 Renwick Racquets 0; Renwick Raptors 1 Rapaura Hākinakina 3; Grovetown Grove Tavern Turf & Tackle 0 Rapaura Floorpride Interiors 4; Renwick BTL 3 Renwick Chardonnay 1.

Division 4: Grovetown Grove Tavern Platters 0 Rapaura Mainfreight 4; Renwick Rascals 0 Rapaura Shiraz 4.

Le Brun highlights track and field efforts

Marlborough athlete Remy Le Brun is a two-time national champion.

Remy, one of a three-strong Marlborough contingent at the recent NZ Masters Track & Field Champs, sped to glory.

Competing in the men’s 35 division, Remy won the 60m sprint in a time of 7.24 seconds, then took out the 100m, recording a slick 11.33 over the Olympic distance. He also picked up a silver medal in the third sprint event, completing the 200m in 23.42.

Remy dipped under the M35 NZ record marks in both the 60m and 100m but unfortunately the wind readings weren’t in his favour.

His efforts at the nationals, staged at Nga Puna Wai in Christchurch, followed some top performances at the South Island Masters champs in Nelson a few weeks previously. Remy won three sprint titles and broke two SI Masters records in the M35-39 age group, narrowly missing a third. He won the 60m in 7.43, a new record, the 100m in 11.85 and the 200m in 24.16, another record.

Fellow Marlborough masters Laura Smidt and Carey Dickason also attended the NZ champs, both producing podium finishes in all their events.

Laura, taking part in the W30 grade, won the 1500m in a time of 5.10.35 and was third in the 800 metres, recording 2.33.75.

Carey, in the W70 division, won the hammer with a throw of 17.46m and took out the throws pentathlon. She was second in the discus (12.70m) and second in the shot put (4.95m).

Along with Remy, four other Marlborough athletes competed in the South Island champs.

Laura (W35-39) won both the

800m (2.27.57min) and the 1500m (5.19.20). Dave Hansen (M45-49) won the 400m in 55.17. Adrian Phillips (M45-49) had a busy time, winning the high jump (1.37m), the triple jump (6.94m), the javelin (25.07m) and the discus (18.43m). He also placed second in the 60m (8.71) and the 800m (3.03.52). Tracey

Sims (W50-54) was second in the 1500m in 7.44.80min.

Mahar Cup

The annual Mahar Cup event was staged on February 17 at Nelson’s Saxton Field. Only Nelson and Marlborough athletes attended this year, with the West Coast contingent absent. Nelson claimed the trophy with a combined total of 239 points, to Marlborough’s 104.

The Marlborough contingent of Dave Hansen, Adrian Phillips, Joseph Brooks, James Hansen, DJ Arbuckle, Alex Hansen and Tracey Sims all contributed to the overall points tally. The Marlborough senior men’s relay team (Joseph, Dave, James and DJ) retained the McConachie Baton.

PETER JONES

PETER JONES

Remy Le Brun, right, at the NZ Masters champs. Photo: Supplied.

Sebastian On in action during the Winstanley Shield clash with Nelson. Photo: Supplied.

PETER JONES

Thirty years ago, a group of local cricketers did what had only been done once previously, bring the Hawke Cup back to Marlborough. The trophy, then known as the U-Bix Cup, went on the line at Fitzherbert Park, Palmerston North, with the Marlborough side producing a gritty performance over all three days to steal away with the silverware, the treasured symbol of New Zealand minor association supremacy. Over the weekend most of the members of the Marlborough team who won the shield, and participated in the ensuing defence, got together for a few days of reminiscing and camaraderie in Blenheim.

The successful 1994 challenge will be best remembered for a last wicket stand on the final day with Marlborough nine wickets down and staring outright defeat in the face, after claiming first innings honours. Teenager Leon MacDonald and first innings bowling hero Craig Auckram, the No 11 batsman, defied the fired-up Manawatu attack for the final 10 overs to ensure the trophy headed south.

Marlborough have won the Hawke Cup three times. In 1968, a side captained by NZ pace bowler Gary Bartlett won the trophy from Hutt Valley, followed by the 1994 side’s heroics, then, in 2011, the rep side uplifted the cup from Otago Country in Alexandra.

Members of the 1994 U-Bix Cup-winning side gathered together over the weekend for a 30th reunion. From left, back row, Barry Roberts (coach), Andrew Taylor, Greg Logan, Craig Auckram, Greg Stretch, Simon Wilson. Front row, Phil d’Auvergne, Phil Gleeson, Ian Stark (captain), Colin Wood, Jon Cunliffe. Absent: Leon MacDonald, Mark Lane, Carl Bulfin, Michael Hood, Stan

Dressage duo nearer to Olympic dream

PETER JONES

Melissa Galloway and her champion mount, Windermere J’Obei W, are a step closer to the Paris Olympics.

The dressage duo have officially qualifying New Zealand an individual spot in Paris later this year.

Although their efforts have ensured New Zealand has a dressage spot in Paris it does not guarantee they will be the combination selected, although they have met all requirements set by the NZOC [New Zealand Olympic Committee] – namely, two scores of at least 74 percent at CDI 3* in the Grand Prix or Special.

They now await the official selection process, with the athlete and horse to be announced in late June.

“Having qualified the spot for New Zealand is a massive achievement alone and I want to once again thank everybody that has been involved in the process so far and continues to support us on our road to Paris,” said Melissa on social media.

New Zealand will be represented across showjumping, dressage and eventing at the Olympics.

The FEI [International Federation for Equestrian Sports] and NZOC have confirmed individual spots for New Zealand in showjumping and dressage, alongside the eventing team who qualified earlier.

Cricket heroics recalled at 30th reunion

ESNZ [Equestrian Sports New Zealand] general manager of high performance, Jock Paget, tipped his hat to those who had secured the spots for New Zealand.

Now the selection process begins in earnest as individuals work to be selected for the Games.

“Those who have worked so hard to qualify New Zealand will certainly be in the mix but it is no guarantee they will be the ones chosen,” said Jock.

“For us it is great to have those spots secure as we can now focus on individual campaigns for Paris and build towards Los Angeles for team success.”

Peter Jones

Kate Thompson

Antony Clark

Glenn Kirby

Warren Cairns

Brian Powell

Paul O’Donnell

Greg Somerville

Matt Ryan

Mike Newman

William Woodworth

Richie Marsden

Michael Winkler

Mike Renner

PTS HIGHLANDERS VS BLUES REBELS VS FORCE MOANA VS DRUA CRUSADERS VS WARATAHS CHIEFS VS BRUMBIES

HURRICANES VS REDS

Lane (selector). Photo: Supplied.

Melissa Galloway and her horse Joey. Photo: Supplied.

First Wed of the month. Ph Norman 0274336242

MONDAY

MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS BARBERSHOP CHORUS If you love singing, come and join us. 7pm Spring Creek Hall. Ph Chris 021445261.

BLENHEIM SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING 7pm Whitney St School Hall. Ph Heather 02102587325.

BLENHEIM BEGINNER LINE DANCE CLASSES Starting Mon 29th Jan 2024. 2-3pm & 6-7pm. First lesson free, $6 per lesson after that. Senior Citizen’s Hall, 172 High St. Ph Judith 5787554 / 0212341095.

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 Secretary Andy Rowe 021842928. Blenheim South Club Secretary Dean Heiford 0212462642.

WITHERLEA INDOOR BOWLING CLUB Our first night is March 4. We meet weekly at 6:50 for 7pm start. Redwoodtown Community Hall, Cnr Cleghorn & Weld St. Please wear soft soled shoes. Contact: Chris 0272722739 or Heather 0273106675 for more info.

TUESDAY

JUMP N JIVE FOR UNDER 5’S Come along to our preschool rhythm and music group. Jump n Jive runs during school terms. 9.30am at The Foundry on John Street. Gold coin donation, morning tea included. Check out tautokotrust.org for more info.

RENWICK ARMS COUNTRY CLUB CARD SECTION

1pm every Tuesday we meet and play EUCHRE and CRIBBAGE at the Redwood Tavern, Cleghorn Street, Blenheim. Beginners are welcome to learn and play. $5 per afternoon. Ph Chris 0272077631.

MARLBOROUGH HERB SOCIETY Meets 4th Tues of month, 7pm. Various locations. To promote use, educate & identification of herbs. Email: mhsgarlicpress@ gmail.com

STEADY AS YOU GO Gentle Exercise/Balance Class for Seniors. 11.30am-12.30pm St Christopher’s Church Hall. $3. 92 Weld St. Last class will be Tues 19th Dec. Ph 0273852333 donna@stchristophers.co.nz

SUNBELT TOASTMASTERS Learn public speaking. Improve your confidence. 6.20pm fortnightly. St Mary’s Community Centre. Ph 0276001788. E: sunbeltblenheim@gmail.com

RED HAT SOCIETY for women to enjoy fun & friendship. We meet 1st & 3rd Tues of the month. Ph Tina 0211045945.

MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB Parker St. 8.30am12pm. Social Tennis. MT 10am. Non-members $5. Ph 0275786436

BLENHEIM CHORAL 7pm. Wesley Centre, Henry St. www.marlboroughsingers.org.

BLENHEIM AIR TRAINING CORP 6.30-9pm RNZAF Base Woodbourne. Recruiting new cadets aged 13 & 15. 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 - Coordinator 0210451799 picton@newcomers.co.nz

KNITTERS & SPINNERS Meet 10am, Picton library. Bring your knitting for this social catch-up.

PICTON TABLE TENNIS for adults 10am-12pm. Little Theatre, Picton. $4 Morning tea included. Ph Ernest 0275888453.

PICTON LINE DANCING 9.30-11.30am. Picton Anglican Church Hall. $7 per class. Beginners welcome. Ph Carol 0212125252 or Raewyn 021715484.

MARLBOROUGH WOMEN’S CLUB MAHJONG 1-3.30pm $4. 12 Battys Rd. Ph Gail 0272214121.

WEDNESDAY

CHEESE & CHEERS is part of the Silent Book Club Aotearoa and we are hosting a meeting every first Wed of the month. 5.30pm at Vines Village, 193 Rapaura Rd. Ph 03 5727170.

WAITOHI SOCIAL CLUB meet 10am Picton Library, every 3rd Wed of the month for fun & friendship. Gold coin donation for M T. After meeting we go for lunch if you wish to join us.

PICTON LIONS Join a worthwhile volunteer group, both female & male members wanted, good fellowship, all money raised goes back to Picton community.

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL 7.30pm. Blenheim Bowling Club, 65 Weld St. Ph Erin 027 234 1709.

BLENHEIM PROBUS CLUB Retired/semi-retired? Meetings 1st Wed of the month. 10am. Wesley Centre. Ph Ann 5787046/Jan 0226353919.

PICTON - SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING 7.30pm. Picton Little Theatre. No partner needed. Beginner’s welcome. Ph Lynda 0212600860.

STRETCH & BREATHE Class for Seniors. 10-11am, St Christopher’s Church Hall. $3. 92 Weld St. Last class will be Wed 20th Dec. Ph 0273852333. Email donna@ stchristophers.co.nz

MARLBOROUGH MULTICULTURAL CENTRE hosts newcomers 10.30-12noon Henry St. Opportunities for Newcomers & Marlburians to make friends, practice English & support each other. Ven y practica tu inglés. Te esperamos.

HEART HELP SUPPORT Community group dedicated to the well-being of those who live with a heart condition or experienced a heart attack. Offering support to whanau. Meet 3rd Wed of the month, 10am. Ph Jenny Goss 0211629102.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS casual parents/caregivers catch up. 10.30-12pm Town Plunket Clinic, 16 Henry St.

MARLBOROUGH CHINESE FELLOWSHIP 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. Wed 6-7.30pm, St Christopher’s Church. 92 Weld St. Ph Guan 0221642782/Mandy 022 4326886.

DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP 10-11.30am to support each other. Regular speakers, outings, share in a safe environment. Ph Alistair Crawford 0272883032.

MARLBOROUGH VINTAGE CAR CLUB MUSEUM Sun & Wed, 1.30 – 3.30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, Blenheim. Donation appreciated. Other times by arrangement. Ph Bill 0275 784 322.

BLENHEIM PETANQUE CLUB Games held at courts, 65A Weld St, Wed 1-3pm & Sun 10am-12pm. Ph/Text John 021979323.

LIONS’ CLUB OF BLENHEIM Serving the community over sixty years. Would you like to know more about the Lion’s club or are interested in becoming a Lion. Tea meetings held 1st & 3rd Wed (Feb-Nov). Ph Delphine Lee 0299425004 or Helen Williams 0211458572.

THURSDAY

PICTON BRIDGE CLUB 6.50pm Port Marlborough Pavilion. Ph Judy 021685348.

KEEP U MOVING Gentle Walking Exercise for Seniors. 11.30am-12.30pm St Christopher’s Church Hall. $3. 92 Weld St. Last class will be Thurs 21st Dec. Ph 0273852333. Email donna@stchristophers.co.nz

COMPANIONS Ages 65+. 1st Thurs of the month. 1pm. Harvest Life Church, 22 Nelson St. Ph Avon 035792440, Lorraine 035781240, or Shirley 035783728.

COPD SUPPORT & EXERCISE GROUP Tailored for people with breathlessness. Every 2nd & 4th Thurs 1.15pm. Redwoodtown Community Hall, Cnr Weld & Cleghorn St. Ph Diana 0272105780/Gillian 0274545102.

SOCIAL BADMINTON Thurs morning 9am-12noon Simcox Stadium Batty’s Rd. $6. All adults welcome. Ph Cathy 021503348

PICTON TABLE TENNIS for adults 10am-12pm. Port Marlborough Pavilion, Waikawa Rd. $4. Morning tea included. Ph Ernest 0275888453.

MARLBOROUGH AMATEUR RADIO CLUB 2nd Thurs of month, 7.30pm, EOC, 4 Wither Rd. For all interested in Amateur Radio, Electronics & Emergency Communications.

KNIT & NATTER Blenheim Library every 2nd & 4th Thurs of the month. 10am-12noon. All welcome. Bring your yarn & have a yarn. For info ph Sue 5785317.

FOREST & BIRD TALK Sonya Roxburgh, ecologist and ornithologist, will talk about her monitoring work on Marlborough’s East Coast. 7.30pm, Thursday 15th February, Blenheim School Hall, all welcome, gold coin donation please.

FRIDAY

NATIVITY TUNES FOR TOTS music, food & fun for pre-schoolers & caregivers. 9.30am. Nativity Hall, 76 Alfred Street. During term time. Ph 5783909.

SALVATION ARMY GAMES Rummy O or Cards ‘500’. 1-4pm. $2 to cover afternoon tea. Contact Moira for more info 0284213163.

BOLIVIA CARD GAME Fri afternoon. Redwoodtown. Ph Mal 0273157675.

PICTON NEWCOMERS NETWORK ‘SUNDOWNERS’

5-6pm at Café Cortado on the waterfront. New to town? Need help to settle in? Interested in local activities? We can help! Ph Cathy - Coordinator 0210451799 or email picton@newcomers.co.nz

LINK Fun, board games & afternoon tea in the lounge at Nativity Centre, 76 Alfred St every Fri 1pm. Gold coin donation appreciated. Ph 5783909 for info.

UPBEAT ORCHESTRA All ages. Instruments. From beginner-grade 5. St Ninians Church Hall, Alabama Rd every Fri 5-6.30pm. E: upbeatorchestra@gmail.com

MARLBOROUGH WOMEN’S CLUB AVO 2-4p.m. Guest speakers. $5. AT. 12 Battys Rd. Ph Dianne 0212147757.

RENWICK SOCIAL TENNIS Every Fri 4.30-6.30pm weather permitting until daylight saving finishes. Members $2, Visitors $5. 10 Uxbridge St (behind Bowling Club). Visit our website, FB page or contact Leigh Andrews Mob: 021 191 3034 for more information.

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

ALPHA COURSE Dessert & Coffee Information evening. Sat. Feb 17. 7pm Salvation Army Lounge, Cnr. Henry & George Sts, Blenheim. This course explores life, faith and meaning. Free and open to all. Come check it out! Enquiries to Anna: harperanna@yahoo. com

SOCIAL CARDS ‘500’ at Redwood Tavern. 1-4pm. Free. Contact Moira for more info 0284213163.

PICTON DAWN CHORUS Checking volunteer trap lines, walking through native bush. Contact Jen - 03 928 4957 ext 1. volunteering@pictondawnchorus.nz

MARLBOROUGH QUILTERS meeting 2nd Sat of the month at Marlb Vintage & Farm Machinery, Brayshaw Park 10am-4 pm. Join us to learn quilting or bring your own projects. Sewing Machines available. Newcomer’s welcome. Liz 0212067382

BAHÁ’Í DEVOTIONS 1st & 3rd Sun, 10.30-11.15am, Marl Community Centre, 25 Alfred St, 12th Lane. Blenheim. Cnr Farmers carpark. www.bahai.org

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 ROTARY BOOTSALE MARKET Railway Station carpark, Sat 8am-12pm. 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 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. Marlboroughmountainbike@gmail.com.

BLENHEIM FAMILY HISTORY GROUP Interested in Family History Research & building your Family Tree? Contact us for advice & assistance. Informal gatherings held 3rd Sun of month, 1.30–3pm, Family History Rooms, Brayshaw Park. Ph Lauri 578 8385.

MARLBOROUGH FARMERS MARKET A&P showgrounds, 9am-12pm Sun, local fresh & seasonal produce & products.

REDWOOD MARKET Redwood Tavern car park, Cleghorn St. Sat, 8am-12pm. 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.

BLENHEIM RIVERSIDE RAILWAY Runs 1st & 3rd Sun of the month. We have Eftpos. Facebook / Riverside Railway.

MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB Parker St. Every Sun 3-5pm. Social Tennis Non-Members $2 All welcome. Ph Joanna 0275786436

BARNABAS CHURCH BLENHEIM 4pm Sun service. St Ninians Church, corner Riley Cres & Alabama Rd. barnabas.org.nz.

MARLBOROUGH ASSOCIATED MODELLERS SOCIETY miniature train rides $2. 1st & 3rd Sun of month. Model yacht & boat sailing Sun, 1pm-4pm, Brayshaw Park.

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.

REPAIR CAFÉ Starting again 27th Jan 2024. We’ll fix your small repair on site. Sewing, darning, bikes, small furniture, wooden items, toys, electronics & mobile phones. 9am-12noon. 4th Sat of the month. John’s Kitchen, 2 Redwood St. Donations accepted.

GENERAL GROUPS

LEARN TO ROW Give rowing a go, or get back into rowing, with the Blenheim Rowing Club. From 8.30am Sun, or from 4.45pm on Tue & Thu. We’ll teach you the basics and get you on the river with experienced rowers to get you started. Other details at blenheimrowing.co.nz.

CUDDON CYCLING MARL Track cycling, end of Brewer St. Mon & Fri 5.30-7pm. Loan bikes, coaching & tuition available. Contact Chris 03-5780433 or Warren 021663910 for more info. www.cyclingmarlborough. co.nz

SIT AND BE FIT Tues & Thurs 1.15pm $2. Riversdale Community House. Ph 5780469 / 0223007342.

MARLBOROUGH GUILD OF WOODWORKERS Mon 9am-12pm, 7-9pm. Wed 9am-12pm. Sat 9am-12pm. wooden toys, projects. 1st Sun monthly 1-4pm. Brayshaw Park. Ph Philip 5705188.

WORKING BEE – TE WHANAU HOU GROVETOWN

LAGOON plant/weed/mulch Wed 9.30-11.30am. Thurs 1.30-3pm. Ph Rosanne 0210709267; Sun session resumes March, every 2nd week, meet at Wairau Rowing Club, Steam Wharf Rd, Grovetown. 9:30am-12pm followed by a BBQ. E: Justine Johnsonmarlborough@ gmail.com.

ULYSSES CLUB Coffee 10am every Sat, at The Runway Café. For info on other rides, E: marlborough@ulysses. org.nz or visit marlborough.ulysses.org.nz.

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS Thurs /Sat 7-8pm. Riversdale Community House, 131 Budge St. WEEKLY STEADY AS YOU GO CLASSES Mon 10.3011.30am The Foundry, John St. Tues 1.30– 2.30pm, Union Parish, 40 Broadway, Picton. (2 doors down from Police Station). Tues 11.30am-12.30 St Christophers Hall, Redwoodtown. Wed 1.30-2.30pm, Marlborough Community Centre, 25 Alfred St, Blenheim. For more info ph Age Concern office 5793457. Cost Blenheim $2 per class. Picton $3 per class.

MARLBOROUGH COMMUNITY VEHICLE TRUST Have difficulty getting to medical appointments in NELSON? This trust was created to carry people to Nelson for medical appointments. Email soundsvehicle@gmail. com or Ph 5741311.

AA MEETINGS Marlborough area. Ring alcoholics anonymous for help to stop drinking. Ph 0800229 6757. www.aa.org.nz. Meetings: 7.30pm Mon, Plunket Rooms, 21 Bythell St / 7.30pm Wed Picton Model Railway, 1 Picton Wharf / 7.30pm Fri St Luke’s Church Hall, 20 Ferry Creek Rd, Spring Creek / 7.55am Sat Salvation Army Rm, 35 George St / 7.30pm Sun at Church, 54 High St, Renwick.

RENWICK MENZ SHED 54 High St Renwick. Left of church. MT provided. Tues 8.30am-2pm. Fri 8.30am12. Ph Dave 02102282592.

PICTON MEN’S COMMUNITY SHED 2 Market St. Wed 8.30am-2.30pm. Sat 8.30am-12pm Ph Bill Rogers 5735507 or Rex 021469191. A place of welcome for Picton’s menfolk.

BLENHEIM MENZ SHED 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. Open Sat 9am12noon. Mon & Thurs 1-4pm. Ph Dave 0212340057.

SENIORNET MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS Linkwater Hall, Queen Charlotte Drive. Tutors for people 50+ needing assistance with computer/smart phone. Ph Ian Cameron (03)5742558 to arrange.

BROOKLYN CROQUET CLUB Tues, Thurs, Sat, 1pm Golf Croquet, Whitehead Park grounds, Brooklyn Dr. Mallets supplied.

MARLBOROUGH TRAMPING CLUB A very active club. Mid-week, Sunday trips, overnight & extended trips. Info at www.marlboroughtrampingclub.co.nz or marlboroughtrampingclub@gmail.com

TE WHANAU HOU GROVETOWN LAGOON are planning to run a guided walk and free BBQ at the Lagoon on the 3rd of February to celebrate World Wetland day. Meeting at 9am on Steam Wharf Road.

WELLS, Elspeth Mary

On 18 February 2024, at her home in Blenheim, in her 96th year. Loved wife of the late Francis of Wakatahuri. Loved mother and mother-in-law of Jenny & Gary Simpson, Linda & Wayne Wallace and Paul. Much loved Grandee of Dawn, Joshua and Peter. A loved sister, sister-in-law, aunt, great aunt and great great aunt of the Wells and Hart families. Messages to 30 Stratford St, Blenheim 7201 or www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. A Funeral Service for Elspeth will be held at the Wesley Centre, 3 Henry Street Blenheim on Wednesday 28 February at 1.00pm followed by burial at the Havelock Cemetery. For those that cannot attend, a livestream of the service will be available through the Cloudy Bay Funerals website.

Locally Family Owned

Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ

Phone (03) 578 2004

www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

WASS, Ronald Leonard William (Ron)

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ron. Peacefully at Ashwood Park Retirement Village, Blenheim on 19th February 2024 in his 92nd year. Dearly loved Dad, Grandad & Great Grandad Ron of Sharon Schneider and family. Adored husband of Patricia (Trish), Treasured stepdad, Grandad and Great Grandad to the families of Rod and Karen King, Jeff and Christine King and Jacquie and Paul Bugler. Loved brother of Rita Eastwood and Frank Wass. ‘Dearly loved and in our hearts forever’. Thanks to the staff of Ashwood for their care of Ron. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. A funeral service for Ron has been held.

Locally Family Owned

Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ

Phone (03) 578 2004

www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

ALLEN,

Rosemary Anne Forbes

On Thursday 22 February 2024 at Ashwood Park Retirement Village surrounded by family and friends. Loving wife of the late William Henry (Bill) Allen. A much loved mother and mother-in-law of Tim and Jane, Julia and Richard Petrie, Georgina and David Woods. A loved Grannie of Harry, Freddy, Arthur and Francesca; Claudia, Max and Holly; Amelia and William. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. Heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at Ashwood Park Retirement Village. A private family service has been held followed by private cremation.

Locally Family Owned

Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004

www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

AITKEN, Elizabeth Macdonald (Lizzie)

On 21 February 2024 passed away at Waterlea Lifecare, Benheim, aged 92 years. Dearly loved wife of the late Johnnie. Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Victoria and the late Martin, Jackie and Ginny, Bridget and Nick, Richard and Susan. A treasured grandmother of Jess, Frances, George, Miria, Elle, and Henry. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz. Cut flowers are welcome or a donation to a charity of your choice. A funeral service for Lizzie will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street on Thursday 7 March at 11.00am followed by a private family interment at the Tuamarina Cemetery.

Locally Family Owned

Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004

www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

FINDLAY, Natalie Margaret

On 18 February 2024 peacefully, at Ashwood Park Resthome, Blenheim aged 83 years. Dearly loved wife of the late Charles and formerly Norman. Loved mother and mother-in-law of Suzette Foss and Andrea and Terry Davis, stepmother and mother-in-law of Stephen and Jane Findlay, Paul Findlay and Robert Findlay (dec) and grandmother of Samantha, Cameron, Michelle, Nathan, Aaron, Chantelle and Brylee. Great Grandmother of Ava, Isla, Nikau, Isabelle and Xander. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. A Memorial Service to celebrate Natalie’s life has been held.

Locally Family Owned

Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004

www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

CAMPBELL, Peter Michael

On 21 February 2024, at his home, surrounded by family, in his 77th year. Much loved husband of Kathleen. Loved father and father-in-law of Katherine and Steven Hayman, Elizabeth and Brent Storey, Victoria and Frazer Jameson and loved grandad of Madeleine, Samuel, Thomas; Amelia, Benjamin; Travis, Saxon, and Fletcher. A loved brother of Patricia Keating and all his nieces and nephews. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz. In lieu of flowers a donation to Hospice Marlborough would be appreciated or may be made at the service. A Requiem Mass for Peter has been held.

Locally Family Owned

Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ

Phone (03) 578 2004

www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

McCULLOCH, Susan Deborah (Nan)

Passed away on February 14, 2024, aged 84 years. Loving wife, soul mate and best friend of the late Graham, amazing mother and mother-in-law of Sally and Mark, David and Marg, Bridget and Rex, Mike and Tee. Treasured Nan of Jess, Sophie and Tim; Sam, Jack and Hannah; Josh, Luke, Tom and Francesca; Oli and Bella, and great-grandmother of Huxley, Beau and Riley. Cherished sister and sister-inlaw of Denis and Jan; Andy and Yvonne and the late Karen and Ted. Special thanks to the excellent staff at the Blenheim Hospice for all the love and care shown to Nan. Messages may be addressed to The Family of the late Nan McCulloch, c/- 53 Fairbourne Drive, Blenheim 7272. At Nan’s request, a private celebration of her life has been held.

Locally Family Owned

Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ

Phone (03) 578 2004

www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

STEWART, Eileen Patricia

On 20 February 2024, at Wairau Hospital, aged 90 years. Loved wife of the late Athol. She will be sadly missed by Connie and Sandra and remembered by her cousins and their families. Messages to Mrs Connie Mason, 555 Mt. Pleasant Farm, SH 1, RD3, Blenheim or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz. A private cremation for Eileen has been held.

Locally Family Owned

Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ

Phone (03) 578 2004

www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

STRAKER, Ronald Noel (Ron)

On 21 February 2024, at Wairau Hospital, aged 68 years. Loved father of Thomas and Hayden. Loved brother and brother-in-law of Dennis and Diane, Rosemary and Paul, Alison and Andrew. A loved uncle of all his nieces and nephews. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. At Ron’s request a private family gathering will be held with a celebration to be advised.

Locally Family Owned

Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ

Phone (03) 578 2004

www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

2024 Trustee Elections

Voting is now underway for three trustee positions on the board of Marlborough Electric Power Trust.

Retiring Trustees Nicki Stretch and Cathie Bell have been nominated for a further term. Nominations have also been received from Simon Bishell, Brendon Burns, David William Richard Dew, Belinda Jackson, Brian Nicholas and Philip Taylor.

Voting papers will either be emailed or posted to all eligible consumers named on the consumer roll and identified as connected to Marlborough Lines Ltd network as at 5.00pm on the 22nd January 2024.

Consumers may vote by:

• Voting online (using the unique voter credentials shown in their email or on the voting paper); or

• Posting their completed voting paper to the returning officer using the pre-paid envelope; or

• Hand delivering their completed voting paper to a ballot box at Blenheim Accounting, 66 Seymour St, Blenheim.

To be counted all completed voting papers must be in the hands of the returning officer by 12 noon, Monday 25th March 2024.

If you require to confirm that you are on the consumer roll or require a special vote paper contact the Election Helpline 0800 666 033 or assistance is available at the offices of Blenheim Accounting, 66 Seymour St, Blenheim during their normal office hours of Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm.

To confirm eligibility for a replacement voting document you will be asked to provide your name, address and your ICP number/(s).

Ensure your vote counts by mailing or emailing your vote paper early or delivering to Blenheim Accounting, 66 Seymour St, Blenheim before 12 noon on the Monday 25th March 2024.

BJ Munro, Returning Officer

Wednesday, Feb 28th

February/March /April 2024 Events

Train the Trainer (half day course) – MCOC office

Friday, March 1st

Management and Leadership Course (12 sessions over 6 months). First session half day then fortnightly 90 min sessions until August 2nd. – MCOC office

Tuesday, March 5th

Coffee and Catchup – all members welcome – MCOC office

Tuesday, March 5th

Exit Planning with BNZ and Icehouse – BNZ Partners Centre

Thursday, March 14th

Governance 101 Workshop (half day) – MCOC office

Friday, March 15th

Governance 102 Workshop (half day) – MCOC office

Tuesday, March 19th

Speaker Event: Infometrics Luncheon with Brad Olsen, Principal Economist – Lansdowne Event Centre

Thursday, March 21st

Business After Five networking event hosted by Cranky Pantry, 48 Market Street, The Forum

Tuesday, April 9th

Coffee and Catchup – all members welcome – MCOC office

Thursday, April 18th

Speaker Event: Breakfast with Jacqui Lloyd, CEO NZ Cruise Association – Location TBD Register for events on at www.marlboroughchamber.nz or contact Anna Clapcott, Membership and Events Manager on anna@marlboroughchamber.nz

$ WANTED

NOT GETTING YOUR DELIVERY?

Email us at hellomarlborough@ topsouthmedia.co.nz with your address and when you didn’t receive it and we will follow up for you.

EXPERIENCED GONDOLA DRIVERS

We are looking for experienced Gondola Drivers for a fixed term period of 4 weeks for Harvest 2024.

You will:

• Have experience in Vineyard Tractor Operations.

• Want to work in a small friendly close knit team.

• Have a “can do” attitude.

• Be physically fit and healthy and prepared to work shift work of 12 hours daily.

• Great pay rates.

• This has the potential to lead to a full-time position for the right person.

If this sounds like the opportunity you’ve been waiting for, we look forward to hearing from you!

Please contact Jeremy Walsh on 021 556 722 or email - jeremy@jwvm.co.nz

Office Manager Position

Permanent, Part time-30 hours per week.

Please email the Principal, Bradley Roberts for more information: principal@riverlands.school.nz

Applications close Friday March 8th at 4pm

Start date: 29th April 2024

GRAPHIC WANTED: DESIGNER

We’re looking for an experienced graphic designer for our busy print media business in central Blenheim. Successful applicants will be proficient in Indesign, will need to be able to work well under pressure and be creative.

• 30-40 hours per week between 8.30am and 5pm Monday to Friday.

• Based in a central Blenheim office.

• Successful applicants need to be proficient in Indesign.

Think you’ve got what it takes? Email your CV and cover letter to andrew@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Library Assistant / Customer Service Officer – Picton Library Waitohi Whare Mātauranga

Mo tēnei tūranga mahi | About the role

Picton Library is seeking personalities who, not only have a passion for libraries, but are positive, loyal and enthusiastic. They will be the first point of contact; providing excellent customer service to our community.

As a Library Assistant you will engage with the community, build relationships and assist with everything from issuing and returning books to finding resources and answering basic computer questions.

As a Customer Service Officer, you will answer queries and provide information on Council’s services, receive payments and enquires.

These roles are crucial to the smooth running of the Library and Service Centre’s operations, and will include a mixture of face to face, phone interaction and digital channels. Therefore, confidence in all these areas is necessary.

Part-time Roles:

A. Sunday 3.25 hours, Monday 4 hours, Tuesday 4 hours weekly

B. Friday 4 hours weekly plus every second weekend - Saturday 5.75 hours, Sunday 3.25 hours.

*Penal rates for weekend work applies.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

Full details of the vacancy and how to apply can be located at www.marlborough.govt.nz/your-council/ careers/current-vacancies.

Applications close 5.00 pm on 5 March 2024.

www.marlborough.govt.nz

Across

1 Cast gloom over (7)

5 Health and prosperity (7)

9 Ghost (7)

10 Insignia of royalty (7)

11 Subside (5)

12 Bride’s outfit (9)

13 Tibetan spiritual leader (5,4)

15 Bishop’s headdress (5)

16 An imposing display (5)

18 Consequences (9)

21 Surround (9)

24 Inn (5)

25 Prospering rapidly (7)

26 Mental vacuity (7)

27 Admit to be true (7)

28 A model (7)

Down

1 Demobilise (7)

2 Be the more usual (7)

3 Furthest point (9)

4 Pleasant smell (5)

5 A fine painting (4,2,3)

6 Chief city of Nigeria (5)

7 Illness (7)

8 A rubbing-out (7)

14 Obliquely (2,2,5)

15 A military parade (5,4)

16 Acid in tone (7)

17 Furry American mammal (7)

19 On either side of (7)

20 The kingfisher (7)

22 Indian corn (5)

23 Use a meagre amount (5)