Locks lopped off for charity
Blenheim man Luke Roberts bid farewell to his dreadlocks as he helped raise money for Cancer Society Marlborough.
On Daffodil Day Luke had his long locks cut off and went for the shave as he sat in the Forum in Blenheim.
The Men and Work Traffic Management area manager made the cut in memory of his much-loved brother Logan who passed away on September 20 of non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at 27 years old.
“I’d just like to say a big thank you for everyone who came along today supporting me and donated to the Blenheim Cancer Society “It means so much to me.”
Material gains for hospice
PAULA HULBURT
Material gains have paid off for Hospice Marlborough as their popular Fabric-a-brac events attracted hundreds of keen shoppers.
More than 300 people zipped into the fourth annual Fabrica-brac event in Blenheim last month, walking out with big smiles and armloads of bargains.
Sales of donated fabric and sewing supplies, a pop-up cafe, raffles, stallholder fees, gold coin donations and the proceeds of the Mop-Up Pop-Up sale the following week raised $7,638.87 for Hospice Marlborough.
Fabric-a-brac Marlborough organiser Tracy Johnston says she is thrilled with the final figure raised and the community’s willingness to help.
“This event is a real team effort with the team at Blenheim Flooring Xtra and Hospice Marlborough volunteers putting in long hours to prepare all the donated fabric and sewing supplies ready for sale on the day.
“Then there are the bakers who
set up and serve in the pop-up cafe, the venue team and the many others who help pack in, pack out and promote the event.”
In the past four years Marlborough Fabrica-brac has collectively raised $26,790.37.
Hospice Marlborough rely on fundraising to help supplement their funding from Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand to enable them to provide their services free to the community.
Keen
Events and Engagement Lead for Hospice Marlborough Leigh Somerville says community fundraisers are vital.
“Community fundraisers like the fabulous and fun Fabric-abrac Marlborough event play a crucial role in our ability to
continue to deliver exceptional palliative care across the region.
“Hospice Marlborough extends our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved.”
Fabric-a-brac Marlborough will return in August/September 2025.
News in brief
TALENTED ARTISTS:
Congratulations to Lillian Ligaliga, Cleo Collins, Trinaty Pillans and Isabella Baldwin from Marlborough Girls’ College who have had their art chosen for the national Ringa Toi Student Exhibition 2024. With a focus on Toi Māori, the exhibition is being held at Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington from 12 to 27 September 2024.
SCAM WARNING:
Police are warning people to be on alert for the latest round of email scams referencing Police and other justice agencies.The email claims authorities have done a search of the email recipient’s computer and located explicit illegal material. The recipient is directed to reply within 72 hours, or a warrant will be issued for their arrest.This email is a scam and anyone who receives it should not reply under any circumstances.
GOOD CAUSES:
Z is once again sharing $1 million with local community groups across the country. Four local charities have been chosen for the latest Good in the Hood charity drive: Marlborough Four Paws, Life Flight Air Ambulance, Plunket Marlborough and Victim Support. To vote for your favourite local community group, head to Z on Grove Rd before 22 September.
EMERGENCY READY:
The public can now comment on the draft Marlborough Civil Defence Emergency Management Group Plan 2025-2030. Mayor Nadine Taylor says Marlborough was exposed to more hazards than ever before, particularly with the effects of climate change. The threat of an Alpine Fault rupture is ever present too, she says. Mayor Taylor said it was important people have their say on the Marlborough CDEM Group Plan. Consultation on the plan closes 30 September. To have your say go to: www.marlborough.govt.nz/your-council/ have-your-say-consultations
shoppers came in their hundreds to grab a bargain at the Fabric-a-brac events for Hospice Marlborough. Photo: Supplied.
Luke Roberts bid farewell to his long dreadlocks with help from Allure Hair Studio’s Karen Maxted. Photo: Supplied.
Aviation mentor honoured
PAULA HULBURT
Years of dedication to aviation have seen a Blenheim man recognised for his contribution to the air industry.
Dave Evans has helped train thousands of people over the last 24 years.
From customer service to security and the less visible roles such as aircraft engineering and air traffic control, Dave has expertise across a wide range of areas.
He was announced as the winner of the 2024 Eye in the Sky Leader in Aviation Award at this year’s prestigious Aviation Industry Association Conference in Christchurch.
“We’re thrilled to see Dave recognised for his decades of dedication to aviation…” says ServiceIQ Executive Director Tony Laskey.
“Dave’s expertise and humble, self-effacing approach is well known and hugely respected in organisations in commercial, general, defence, and agricultural aviation as well as aerospace.
“There are some individuals who deserve special recognition for their efforts and dedication.
Dave is one of those people.”
Dave has been involved with aviation industry training since
2000.
Coming from a successful career in the RNZAF, he trained at Woodbourne and worked in the No1 Repair depot as an electroplater and became an instructor at No 4 technical training school.
He mastered a broad range of skills, including aeronautical electroplating, team leadership, and as engineering instructor, assessor and training designer.
Originally, Dave says he was not going to the conference but was given a heads-up he had been nominated for the award.
“It was still a shock as the engineering awards had been awarded, so I thought I had not been successful.”
With a rolling average of 300 to 400 trainees and apprentices a year, Dave says he reckons he has helped in the region of 3500 people complete their qualifications.
“…apart form a two-year stint developing aviation qualifications in the UAE I have been involved in industry training for 24 years.
“I guess ballpark 3500, as not all complete their qualifications, but aviation does have a higher completion rate than a lot of other industries.”
The Award judges considered a wide range of information in
making their choice, as well as references from key industry players.
Among these were three of Air New Zealand’s organisational development and training specialists Manon Keating, Jeroen Hattink and Rob McGregor. They said during the 15 years Dave has been advising Air New Zealand, the national carrier has
completed around 300 traineeships.
“He deserves this award because his knowledge and passion has lifted the aviation industry. It is now more widely accepted, implemented and recognised. “Dave will always go the extra mile to give advice and seek solutions,” they noted.
Aviation Industry Association’s Simon Wallace and Karen Wake from Eye in the Sky congratulate Dave Evans on his award. Photo: Supplied.
Spreading joy for Daffodil Day
PAULA HULBURT
Smiling daffodils have been brightening up the day for hospital patients and visitors alike as part of celebrations to mark Daffodil Day.
Children from Blenheim’s Uptown Preschool have been busy creating daffodil themed art and crafts to hang outside Wairau Hospital’s Oncology Department.
And dressed as daffodils themselves, the young visitors raised plenty of smiles as they saw their creations hanging in pride of place.
Specialty Clinical Nurse
Oncology Vicky Spence, whose son attends the preschool,
says the children have been learning about the importance of Daffodil Day.
Raising awareness about the work they do at the hospital and the importance of Cancer Society Marlborough is important to staff, she says.
“We decided to go all out this year. It’s for a wonderful cause”
Vicky Spence
“The Cancer Society here are an integral part of supporting our patients and their families.
“They really do go above and beyond to help, providing wraparound care and letting us concentrate on treatment.”
The talented young artists
from Uptown Preschool have spent two weeks colouring in pictures and making daffodils for the display.
Staff at both Uptown and from the Oncology Centre dressed up for the visit, even decorat ing the entrance to comple ment the children’s eye-catch ing work.
A collection box was put in place too with patients, staff and the public donating.
“We decided to go all out this year. It’s for a wonderful cause,” Vicky says.
Uptown Preschool’s Sonny Bowen, 3, at Wairau Hospital to mark Daffodil Day.
Photo: Paula Hulburt.
Worm farm a winner for Picton residents
PAULA HULBURT
Residents at a Marlborough rest home have scooped a national award - for their winning ways with worms.
Oceania Healthcare’s Marina Cove in Picton won the Resene Resident-Led Sus-
Sales and Village Manager Michelle Campbell says the worm farm project captivated the interest of nearly everyone in the village.
“This initiative has become a social hub, where meaningful discussions and connections grow around a shared interest.
“Residents were thrilled and have been smiling all week as have we. We
dents here. We are looking forward to throwing them a celebration event next week.
“The collective effort has fostered a sense of hope and pride in our little community.”
RVA executive director John Collyns says the association is proud to recognise the dedication and hard work of retirement villages and residents.
The Resene Resident-led Sustainability Award was pre sented to by Resene’s Vaughan Smidt to Chief Property Officer, Oceania Healthcare Limited Andrew Bucking ham. Photo: Supplied.
Pick up your copy of the guide from Marlborough District Council
Mentors inspires bright futures
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
An apprentice chef has stepped up to show Marlborough’s upand-coming workforce the power of perseverance.
Danyon Fairweather is a mentor with the free Toroa Career Navigator course run by Graeme Dingle. Taking part in a panel last week, alongside fellow mentors Ian Martella and Anita Vincent, Danyon spoke openly, encouraging young people to find
their purpose. “I was on borderline of being a statistic, with my future being either in and out of prison or dead – and the biggest lesson I want to give them is that despite anything in your upbringing or your past, you find purpose in doing work you enjoy,” he says.
The initiative engages unemployed young people from 15 to 24 years old to prepare them for the workplace. Each course member works with their mentors to put a career action plan in place and work on a portfolio.
Combined with workshops, indus
employment experiences and inspirations for our course participants because they want to see these kids succeed.
“It’s a huge variety of interests that these kids have, so panel members are potential employers but also it means they can see that everyone has their own pathway
He spoke about believing he was bad at maths through high school until beginning his electrician apprenticeship.
WineWorks HR Manager Anita Vincent says she hopes her story is an inspiration.
“I was in their shoes - not sure what I wanted to do, on the benefit, then working at Subway.”
“Working at Subway remains one of my fondest workplaces and launching pads into my career
Toroa Career Navigator students Dacarna Aberhart, Ainsley Turner and Roimata Hunia with course co-ordinator Craig Harper and panel members Ian Martella, Anita Vincent and Danyon Fairweather. Photo: William Woodworth.
Quenching your hunger
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
A local chef is so passionate about bringing the best of Marlborough foods to customers, she even dreams about new dishes.
Maree Connolly from Carnmore Chateau Marlborough’s Quench restaurant and her kitchen crew work together to come up with new ideas.
And with an international staff, their dishes have a distinctive flavour, she says.
“Sometimes I wake up at night and write down dream dish combinations I come up with - I’d personally love to explore more Middle Eastern flavours, with pomegranate molasses and za’atar.
“Having an international influence in our kitchen means they bring their classic cuisine combinations to create an exciting combination from their cultural heritage and journey of flavours and dishes.”
Maree’s dining ethos of seasonal,
fresh, locally produced dishes and open-mindedness to flavour combinations brings deliciously unique combinations to the menu breaking across cuisine barriers.
“As chefs we can access lots of fruit and vegetables year-round now, but by keeping suppliers local it means we can pick produce and get it onto our plates at its absolute best,” she says.
“Approaching produce like Brussels sprouts with new eyes - by sauteing them with chimichurri flavours - ended up having them continually sold out faster than our classic duck fat potatoes which proves our adventurousness is appreciated.”
Maree says that Marlborough is
an incredible hub to live out her ethos and says that the face-toface relationships built with local producers is crucial.
“I set my staff to bring the same standard of food no matter the day or time especially when I’m not there.”
Maree Connolly
“For me, there’s five seasons of Marlborough produce – spring, early summer, late summer, autumn and winter – and Marlborough’s seasonal produce is never boring and allows us a creative attitude combining our staff’s varied training with new produce”.
“As a kitchen staff we go and visit our local suppliers we’re always talking with, and sampling produce from.”
Alongside many other suppliers and crops from local growers, Maree sources the first, freshest
Golden Mile Produce crop of strawberries in their spring cheesecakes, alongside Anzco and Premium Game for meat which is not frozen before use.
While she is trained in French cuisine, Maree says that the best dishes come out of combining the knowledge of her kitchen team to make something even better.
“We use classic combinations –pork and apple, lamb and mint, fish and soy – as base flavours for dishes to add other components for local modern takes on traditional dishes.
“I set my staff to bring the same standard of food no matter the day or time especially when I’m not there.
“I think the most important person in any kitchen is the kitchen hand - doing the preparation work and cleaning sets up the entire kitchen for success.”
While the Quench menu sees minor seasonal changes, the experimental experience
for flavours in the Chateau Marlborough kitchen comes out in seasonal specials.
Aspects of the specials then may find new homes in future menu dishes, which Maree encourages her staff to bring their own experiences and trusts them to continually look to improve dishes.
“I think people mistake Quench for being an exclusive, fine dining restaurant only for guests – aside from our food, it’s a fantastic indoor/outdoor space for intimate dinners to big celebrations and we have great social deals for after work drinks.”
“I’m still on the grill four or five nights a week because I love the fast service – when my staff eventually tell me to hurry up, I’ll know it’s time to hang it up but that won’t be happening soon if I can help it.”
www.carnmore.co.nz/carnmorechateau-marlborough/
Carnmore Chateau Marlborough’s Quench restaurant chef Maree Connolly is excited about Marlborough produce.
Photo: William Woodworth.
PAULA HULBURT
A former Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) commander has been spreading his wings, taking on a second career in emergency response.
Wing Commander Bill Rowling is one of the many former New Zealand Defence Force uniformed and civilian staff who volunteer their time to support local communities.
And when the Interislander ferry Aratere grounded in June, Wing Commander Rowling jumped into action.
“From an operational planning perspective, the event was relatively straightforward.
“The priorities were the pres-
ervation of life, protection of infrastructure - the ship, and protection of the environment including marine and land-based wildlife.
“Where the complexity of this operation came in was the tactical execution of the plan, which required several specialist agencies providing expert advice and action,” he says.
As operational planner for the Marlborough Civil Defence and Emergency Management incident management team, Wing Commander Rowling splits his time between RNZAF Base Woodbourne and the Marlborough Civil Defence Emergency Management Team.
Moving to Blenheim in
2022, Wing Commander Rowling has since updated RNZAF Base Woodbourne’s standing orders for incident management.
Being a smaller but close community brings its own unique challenges, he says.
“The difference between Woodbourne and its sister bases, Auckland and Ohakea, is that by virtue of its smaller size in a smaller region, the base is more connected to the community and faces different challenges.
“Base Woodbourne is often called on to support community responses to the prevalent floods and fires throughout Marlborough, Tasman and West Coast civil defence regions.”
MAIA HART
Marlborough councillors are waiting until the last minute to decide whether to retain the region’s Māori ward.
If they do, a referendum will need to be held at the local election in October next year so the public can decide if it wants to continue having a Māori ward.
The Māori ward bill passed its third reading at Parliament in July, which means councils with the ward are now legally required to poll residents, or scrap the ward altogether.
The council has until September 6 to decide on this.
It is holding an extraordinary meeting on Tuesday, September 3
at 1pm to decide whether it will hold a referendum or let the ward be abolished.
The results of the any referendums across the country would be binding and take effect from the 2028 local government term, so the council could still have a Māori ward for the next council term even if the region voted against keeping the ward.
A number of councils had already decided to hold a referendum.
Earlier this month, Kaipara District Council became the first in the country to dump its Māori ward. Police were present at the tense meeting.
In Palmerston North, the council agreed to ask for more information about the implications of re-
fusing to hold a referendum, after the council unanimously voted to hold one.
The only Māori wards in the South Island were in the top of the south. In Tasman, their ward was introduced this term and the seat would start in the next local government term. Nelson had a Māori ward councillor.
Both councils would make a decision on their wards on September 5. Marlborough’s first Māori ward councillor, Allanah Burgess, had previously said she was disappointed and frustrated at the Government’s decision. She said the Government had failed to recognise the positive changes that had come about
through the establishment of Māori wards.
“Their discriminatory treatment of Māori is leading to further division of Māori and non-Māori communities.
“While a referendum may be seen as a democratic process, it is deeply troubling that Māori are being singled out in this manner.”
She said the focus should be on maintaining the Māori ward to continue fostering equity and strengthen community relationships.
“It is not a matter of choosing the lesser of two evils; rather, it is about recognising and respecting the established Māori ward without subjecting it to discriminatory treatment.
Wing Commander Rowling is now focusing on passing on his experience to others.
“My biggest takeaways for an emergency are that communication and situational awareness are key to any response; ensuring information is being passed to the right people at the right time – just like any military operation,” he says.
He adds people should have a plan in place for their whānau to be self-reliant for a period of three to seven days in case main supply lines or utilities are cut off.
“These plans should include individual grab bags, contact lists, reserves of food, water and medication, lighting and cooking methods.”
Extraordinary meeting on fate of Marlborough Māori ward Officer spreads his wings for emergencies
“I will continue to advocate for this seat and our communities –all of them. It has been said before, and I will reiterate now, that what is good for Māori is good for all people.”
Members of the public were invited to attend the extraordinary meeting in the council chambers on Tuesday. The council would also adopt its long-term plan and set the rates rise, which had been delayed.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Marlborough’s first Māori ward councillor Allanah Burgess, centre, joins councillors being led into the first council meeting of her first term, in 2022. Photo: Marlborough Express/Supplied.
Wing Commander Bill Rowling is passing on his expertise in responding to emergencies, which he has picked up in 43 years with the RNZAF Photo: Supplied/RNZAF
Two young visitors to Marlborough Museum’s Open Day made the most of the attractions, including Little Flick the fire engine.
Magic at the museum as open day attracts hundreds
PAULA HULBURT
Marlborough Museum opened its doors again to much excitement at the weekend as families flocked to make the most of the attractions.
Around 200 visitors came through the doors of the Brayshaw Park based museum, topping numbers over the previous two years. After a thunderstorm and heavy rain on Saturday night, the sun came out and people came to make the most of the museum and park.
Marlborough Historical Society president Paul Davidson says the event was a lovely way to welcome spring and celebrate Father’s Day.
“After a time of much uncertainty, it was great to feel the Museum come alive again.
“And all thanks to the efforts of dedicated volunteer workers who put huge amounts of time and skills into the heritage they love.”
Little Flick the vintage fire engine proved especially popular and classic cartoons running in the theatre were a big draw.
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Community funding packs a punch
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
While the Blue Door refurbishes their home base, charity store staff continue to help the community from a temporary home.
The Blue Door’s pop-up clothes store, on the corner of Seymour and Maxwell Road, has moved into a new interim base.
Manager Bronwen Demmocks, at her temporary desk where the jackets usually reside, says the pop-up has been a great decision.
“We’ve had a temporary change with our clothing, accessories and shoes having moved to our pop-up store just down the road so we can give the store, workspaces and offices a refresh all at once.
“Our clothes are generally our most popular, and so we wanted to keep them available still at the same prices.”
Volunteers Linda and Kathryn are also enjoying the new pop-up store.
“We’ve been here two weeks and it’s really
Leaders of the pack
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Dogs galore and their mushers made for a great day at this year’s National Dryland Sled competition at Forrest Wines on Sunday.
Marlborough hosted the eagerly anticipated 2024 New Zealand Federation of Sled Dog Sports Dry Land Championships.
NZFSS executive sanctioning officer and national championships organiser Stephen says approximately 50 fellow mushers and more than 150 dogs signed up for the day.
“We rally-style race six-dog rigs down to three dog rigs pulling a three- or four-wheel trolley around six or seven kilometers, the scooter sprint classes with one or two dogs over three kilometers, and the single dog bike and cani-cross runners connected to dogs at the belt.”
Results
Speed Limited Two (2) Dog Scooter 4kms
Eric Altermann with Rita and Iris
Speed Limited Two (2) Dog Scooter 3.4kms
Alan Aitken with Drift and Pluto
Speed Limited One (1) Dog Class 7.4kms
Annette Ahnfeldt with Zelden
Speed Limited Three (3) Dog Class 12.8kms
Annette Hutchby with Rex, Crash and Torvi
Speed Limited Four (4) Dog Class 12.8kms
Julian Johnston with Hazel, Maple, Willow and Moana
Speed Limited six (6) Dog Class 12.8kms
Eric Altermann with Clyde, Finn, Kola, Ocean, Amos and Willow
“The setup is great too; it almost has the feeling of a boutique store inside,” Kathryn says.
The move also means the Blue Door’s bank account can continue to replenish after the last round of grants were recently announced.
For Arapawa Boxing Club, their $1,800 Blue Door grant means their champion boxers now have brand new boxing equipment –five Sting headgear, ten 16oz pairs of gloves, and ten skipping ropes.
For coach Glen Cotton, the equipment makes a big difference.
“Since we started in 2011 we’ve got by with donated gear, gloves left by fellow boxers, and it all is wearing out now so redeveloping what gear we had was already top of our mind.
“Everyone’s really appreciative about the Blue Door’s funding, incorporation and application process, as well as the Mitchell Sports team for sorting suppliers for the
Speaker theft leaves racecourse lost for words
PAULA HULBURT
Eight large speakers have been stolen from Waterlea Racecourse by thieves thought to have used specialised equipment. Thieves targeted the Blenheim-based racecourse over the weekend of 24 and 25 August.
Only the empty metals poles which boosted the public announcement system were left behind.
A police spokesperson says the speakers were attached to the top of three metre poles and special equipment would have been used to remove them.
“These speakers were attached to the top of three-metre-high poles, which leads us to believe the people responsible had the necessary equipment to commit the theft.
“Police would like to speak to anyone with information that could assist police enquiries.”
The Marlborough Harness Racing Club Inc celebrated 100 years in 2020.
have been stolen from
The theft of outdoor PA systems has become more common in recent years. Other racecourses, schools and education centres have been targeted. Please contact Police by calling 105 or heading online to police.govt.nz/use105 and selecting “Update Report”. Please reference file number 240829/1495.
Arapawa Boxing Club members in their brand-new Sting equipment, thanks to the Blue Door’s grant of $1800. Photo: Supplied.
Speakers
Waterlea Racecourse.
Photo: Supplied/ New Zealand Police
A great time was had by competitors and spectators alike at the National Dryland Sled competition. Photo: William Woodworth
1. Andrea and Gary Howie, Mike and Pam O’brien.
2. Lenix, Michelle, Zayn, Hudson, and Dan Metzger
3. Banksia, Tazz, Keanu and Nicole Moanaroa
4. Darryn and Holly Taylor
5. Paul and Indi East
6. Bar t and Jamie Doppenberg
7. Thom Hall and Jared Henn
Proud to support Hope Walk MANAAKITIA TE IWI KIA WHANAKE CARE FOR THE PEOPLE TO THRIVE
We are a kaupapa māori hauora provider for whānau living in Marlborough. We support rangatahi and their whānau to realise their strengths and reach their potential.
Rangatahi services
P: 03 577 9256 | E: kiaora@maataawaka.co.nz
• Mana Taiohi (Youth Mentoring)
• Youth Justice Support Service
• E Tipu E Rea (Holiday Programme)
• Hapai Pukuriri (Emotional Regulation)
• Kia Piki Te Ora (Suicide Prevention)
SPORT Mako leave Steamers thunderstruck
PETER JONES
Having left Bay of Plenty, literally, in the dark at Lansdowne Park on Saturday evening, the Tasman Mako men can now shine a light on their next assignment, a coveted Ranfurly Shield challenge in Napier.
After easing past the Steamers 3415 in a dramatic Bunnings NPC clash, while maintaining their unbeaten start to the season, Tasman will head north later this week for just the fourth Ranfurly Shield challenge in their brief history.
All have been unsuccessful. Since 2006 they have challenged Wellington in 2008, losing 26-20, Taranaki in 2012, losing 49-40, Hawke’s Bay in 2021, losing 34-22 and Wellington last season, going down 7-0.
Consequently, although the union has won multiple NPC titles, Tasman have yet to get their hands on New Zealand rugby’s most treasured piece of silverware, the Log ‘o Wood. However, if they are to tick the most notable box that has been empty since their inception, they will have to get past a similarly unbeaten Hawke’s Bay outfit.
Skipper Quinten Strange said while there had been some “outside noise” about their next fixture, the Mako had tried to stay in the moment.
“What I am proud of with this group is that we have just focussed on this week’s game,
which was really important to our season.
“There has been a lot of adversity, late withdrawals, weather, power outages, everything … but now we can acknowledge that we have a Shield challenge, up there against a very good Hawke’s Bay team that hasn’t been beaten at home for a while, so we will work towards that challenge.
“We understand what it will take because we have been up there and failed. The group is hungry for it, but we know we will have to be at our absolute best to come away with the Shield,” he added.
Saturday’s match at Lansdowne was contested in hugely challenging conditions. The match kick-off was delayed by around 30 minutes after a dramatic rainstorm, as streaks of lightning punctuated with claps of thunder rolled incessantly around the park.
Fifteen minutes before kick-off the floodlights went out due to a lightning strike, plunging the ground into darkness and necessitating a 45-minute delay before illumination was restored.
Despite the disrupted build-up Tasman began strongest, closerange tries to Timoci Tavatavanawai and Max Hicks, with conversions to Willi Havili pushing them to a 14-0 lead after just 12 minutes.
However, the Steamers came back strongly, Kaleb Trask landing a penalty, to which Havili, replied in kind two minutes later, maintaining their 14 point-advantage.
Then, six minutes before halftime, the Bay of Plenty first five chipped a clever kick over the Tasman backline which a flying Emoni Narawa latched on to score the Steamers’ first, making for a 17-8 scoreline at the break.
Tasman struck first after halftime, a Tavatavanawai burst setting up a penalty which was landed by Will Butler, Havili having been yellow carded just before oranges for team offences.
Eight minutes later the home side added their third try, a Quentin MacDonald short side burst from a lineout drive setting up an easy run-in for winger Jack Gray.
Havili, who had returned to the park at fullback, landed the conversion to give the Mako a 19-point lead.
Ten minutes later they had their bonus point try and it was Gray again, scything through from a set move after a lineout on the Bay 22. Havili again converted as the Mako replacements entered the fray with the game almost in the bag.
However, the Steamers still had some life in them, fullback Cole Forbes benefitting from a Narawa break to bag their second with nine minutes on the clock, Luca Cashmore converting.
But that was as good as it got for the visitors, with the Mako wrapping up an important win for their NPC aspirations and a morale-boosting effort before their visit to McLean Park.
For Tasman, Tavatavanawai was again a constant threat, with and without the ball, Hicks continued his strong season, Sam Matenga, Strange, Antonio Shalfoon and Braden Stewart carried well while inside backs Willi Havili and Finlay Christie’s work in the wet was
exemplary.
Strange said the delayed start was not an issue for the Mako.
“It was one of those things, I have never had that happen before … but you can’t control it so you just get on with it.”
The teams were midway through their warm-up on the ground when the lights went out.
“The boys were building through the first warm-up pretty well … we just went back in the sheds and talked about controlling what we could control,” said Strange.
“Our mindset coming out of the sheds, once we were allowed back on the field, well, the boys absolutely nailed it.
“You could feel the edge in the group and we managed to start well … it is always tough chasing the game in the wet.
“Our game drivers, Red [Christie] and Willi, did really well putting us in the right parts of the field … it was just important that whenever we went down their end of the field we came away with points, and kept them chasing the game.
“It was off the back of some really good defence from us as well, creating pressure.”
Scores: Tasman 34 (Timoci Tavatavanawai, Jack Gray 2, Max Hicks tries, Willi Havili 4 con, pen, Will Butler pen) Bay of Plenty 15 (Emoni Narawa, Cole Forbes try, Kaleb Trask pen, Luca Cashmore con) HT: 17-8.
Saturday’s Shield challenge kicks off at 7.05pm.
Cyclones too strong for Mako women
PETER JONES
Manawatu rolled smoothly past a brave Tasman Mako women’s side during their Farah Palmer Cup championship clash at Lansdowne Park on Saturday night.
The visitors, who came to town sitting top of the table after three comfortable wins, prevailed 5517, scoring nine tries in the process.
Well-oiled set pieces and welldrilled attacking structures, combined with rugged defence, made it hard work for the home side, who had their moments but ultimately had to bow to a stronger side.
Manawatu set the tone of the match with a first half try-fest, running in seven tries to the home side’s two.
Tasman began strongly, taking the lead briefly when centre Lesieli Taufa sprinted away for an
intercept try, which was converted by first five Ashleigh Wood.
The Cyclones soon replied, but Tasman went in front again after 20 minutes when winger Michelle Curry scored a superb solo effort.
From there it was all one-way traffic as the visitors ran through the phases with ease, their dangerous runners being given overlaps and time to stretch their legs. With heavy rain arriving at half time the second half was a scrappy affair, Manawatu adding just two more tries as handling became difficult. Tasman had the final say through a try to Sosoli Talawadua, underlining a neversay-die effort against a well-organised opponent.
The home side’s best were loosies
Fiaali’i Solomona, Sui Pauaraisa, hooker Jett Hayward, halfback
Lucy Brown and first five Ashleigh Wood who dictated play
well with a minimum of possession, plus outside backs Taufa, Curry and fullback Sarah Jones. Skipper Pauaraisa priased the Tasman effort, saying “these girls are very young and we are learning week by week ... I wish there was a round two because we would have come out stronger, but I am so proud of the girls and what we have done today”.
Scores: Manawatu 55 (Ruci Malanacagi 3, Rangimarie Sturmey, Kahurangi Sturmey 2, Holly Rae Mete, Ngano Tavake, Selica Winiata tries, Selica Winiata 5 con) Tasman 17 (Lesieli Taufa, Michelle Curry, Sosoli Talawadua tries, Ashleigh Wood con). HT: 41-12.
Next up for Tasman is a Trafalgar Park match-up with bottom-placed Taranaki on Saturday, kick off 1.05pm.
Timoci Tavatavanawai powers over the line for Tasman’s first try on Saturday evening. Photo Gavin Hadfield/Shuttersport
Midfielder Lesieli Taufa races away for Tasman’s first try at Lansdowne Park. Photo Gavin Hadfield/Shuttersport.
Pelorus do it again
PETER JONES
It took the Pelorus netball club 38 years to claim their first premier title - but only 12 months to bag their second.
On Saturday afternoon, Pelorus Edridge Contracting made it back-to-back premier crowns when they took out the 2024 title with a well-deserved 51-44 victory over Harlequins Totalspan under the Stadium 2000 roof.
Favourites going into the decider, Pelorus were never behind by more than a goal or two, leaving Harlequins to play catch-up for most of the match, which was played out in front of a boisterous, vocal crowd.
To their credit, Quins stayed in the battle for most of the game, trailing by just two at three-quarter time. However they were outclassed in the final 15 minutes when outstanding Pelorus shooter Paige Lovell put up 19 shots, of which she sunk 14, including a couple from distance, to ensure the title was retained. By contrast, in the final quarter, Harlequins were allowed only 13 shots in total, sinking just nine.
Quins started with the versatile and aerial Wiri Bristowe at keeper, alongside the astute Wendy Trolove, the pair hoping to slow Lovell’s output. Lauren Murray teamed with Jack Frew in the attacking circle, while Bridget
Gane, Simone Pedersen and Sophie Robinson formed an experienced midcourt. Of note was the fact Gane was playing her 40th consecutive season of top-level netball, an achievement recognised before the opening whistle. Pelorus fielded a predictable line-up, Cara Gallop teaming with Lovell, Ella Smith and Oriana Houra combining in defence, with Brittney Lyons, Kelsie Fitzpatrick and youngster Stormy Tupara in the middle of the action. The first quarter was messy, finals pressure affecting both camps, resulting in plenty of turnovers as the old rivals felt each other out. It ended 12-10 to Pelorus but the pendulum swung the other way in the second stanza. Although Pelorus went out to a five-goal lead in the early stages, Quins, with Bristowe and Trolove to the fore, fought back and by halftime had levelled the scores at 23-23.
Quins made several changes at
the mid break, Bristowe moving to shooter, Frew to GA, replacing Murray. Poppy Lane replaced Bristowe at GD, Trolove assuming the keeper’s bib, while Zoe Scaife entered the fray, replacing Pedersen at WA.
The third quarter was also tight, with possession even, but Lovell’s 13 goals from the same number of shots allowed the Dark Blues to get their nose back in front 37-35.
A feature was the intense midcourt battle, full court defence meaning every pass was contested, making transitions after turnover ball difficult for both sides.
Late in the third quarter Pelorus made a notable change, Mya Gibbons coming in at goal defence for Smith. They then made their final change at the start of the final stanza, Jordy Peipi replacing Lyons at WD, as they pushed hard to establish a winning margin.
Eventually, Harlequins’ resistance
broke, a run of seven goals to two allowing Pelorus some breathing space, an advantage which a team with experienced performers throughout the court was not about to let slip.
Pelorus captain Cara Gallop, relishing her first stint in the club’s top side, said the team had really come together in the latter stages of the season.
“We have had quite a few injuries throughout the season so cohesion was lacking, especially at the start, but once we hit the Tasman Trophy games [which Pelorus won], and we had all 12 players to
Other results:
call on … then it started to click.
“There were quite a few of us that hadn’t played together before so, just getting used to each other’s play, where to put the ball into space … it gelled in some games more than others but we have definitely been building each game to this stage, which was nice.”
She said the side were quietly confident going into the final, despite two members of the side being struck by illness during the build-up.
“We knew it would be a hardfought battle, it is every time we play them … and you can’t have a lull because they are one of those teams that can score quickly. But, so can we and we just had to realise that when we got up on the scoreboard it was a possession game and I think we did that well in that last quarter.”
Cara said team communication played a big part in their success.
“We can generally hear each other … sometimes that is all that is needed, especially in pressure situations. When you have clear comms it is really easy to execute your game plan. If everyone goes into their shells and it’s quiet it gets hard. We are a good communicator team, which is probably what gets us through in those tight moments,” she added.
Premier final scores: Pelorus Edridge 51 (Paige Lovell 44/54, Cara Gallop 7/14) Harlequins Totalspan 44 (Jack Frew 32/43, Lauren Murray 4/7, Wiri Bristowe 8/12). Quarter scores (winning team first): 12-10, 11-13, 14-12, 14-9.
Grade 1: Pelorus Revival 32 MGC Vet Marlborough 31
Grade 2: MGC Thomas’s Jetz 24 Tokomaru KBK Building 16
Grade 3: Harlequins Sothebys 28 MGC Ayson Survey 25
Grade 4: Harlequins McRaes 25 Awatere 19
Grade 5: QCC Senior B 22 Legion Tyche 16
Grade 6: QCC Manawa 24 Harlequins Tasman Crop 12
Grade 7: Harlequins Renwick Meat Market 20 Harlequins BPC 18
Social: Pelorus Fairweathers 18 Harlequins Grove Tavern 16
The victorious Pelorus crew. Photos: Peter Jones
Mother/daughter duo Cara Gallop and Mya Gibbons.
Bridget Gane celebrated 40 consecutive years of premier netball.
MGC shooter Emma Straker lines up the hoop.
Grade 2 winners, MGC Thomas’s Jetz celebrate.
Rangers at the double
PETER JONES
Rangers AFC completed the double on Saturday, adding victory in the Prices Charity Cup final to their Nelson division one league title.
The Blenheim side travelled to Richmond for finals day, taking on the Golden Bay Mountain Goats in the Cup decider and coming away with a solid 3-0 victory.
While bumpy pitch conditions were not conducive to skilful football, with the forecast rainstorm not arriving until after the final whistle, Rangers were able to string some flowing phases of play together.
They led 2-0 at halftime, both
goals scored in a similar manner by top-scorer Keagan Mortimer. He was played into space by clever through balls, then cleverly chipped the keeper.
An ‘insurance’ third goal to midfielder Marcelo Gonzalez midway through the second spell, directly from a free kick 22m out, allowed Rangers to enjoy the final quarter of the match and celebrate an outstanding season.
Manager Wolfie Waechter said “not much pretty football was played today but we adapted and put in a really good team effort, especially playing with just 10 men for some time after Tore [Waechter] had to leave the field with a head cut”.
Katie’s back in black
PETER JONES
“We controlled the game. Three nil was a pretty fair reflection.”
Man of the match was Jordy Columbus, who produced another top effort in the heart of the Rangers’ defence.
Rangers have claimed the Cup four times in the last five years and previously did the double in 2018.
Wolfie said they had expectations of doing well at the start of the campaign and have had to adapt on their way to an unbeaten season.
“You want to do well of course, but you never know what the opposition will be like from year to year … we had some strong teams against us and some close results, plus we had to deal with
Re-selection in the New Zealand under-16 football team has put a silver lining on a frustrating 12 months for promising Blenheim teen Katie Pugh. This time last year Katie was in Tahiti, making her national debut and popping up with the winner in the Oceania Football Confederation [OFC} final.
Returning home, an opportunity to become part of the prestigious Phoenix women’s academy saw the year 10 student shift from Marlborough Girls’ College to Wellington’s
some serious injuries, but we picked up a couple of players that we had not counted on.”
The team lost influential midfielder Bjorn Waechter with a broken leg midway through the season and had to do without defender Callum McDonald for a long period, but were able to call on experienced performers Gonzalez and former striker Carl Connor-McClean towards the end of the season.
For their final fling Rangers travelled in a bigger bus, so the whole team were able to travel west together and invite family members to join them for postmatch celebrations.
“It was a great way to finish the season,” Wolfie added.
smoothly to another level, an injury threw a spanner in the works.
In March, Katie suffered a tear to her patella tendon, necessitating a four-month break from active football.
Under the care of the Phoenix medical team, her rehab programme has gone smoothly, to the point where she has been allowed to play at least half a game and train three times a week, making for a “much happier” teenager.
“I have been back to playing 45-minute games and increasing fast … and feeling really good,” said Katie.
“The four months with no football whatsoever was very, very hard … definitely the toughest part of my football career so far.
“A lot of people think that training, running and working in the gym is hard but the hardest bit was not being able to do that.
“There was also a lot of stress around not knowing whether I would be back enough in time to make the NZ team and for any tour-
Sport briefs
ROWING
There was a Marlborough presence at the world junior and under-23 rowing championships which were staged in Canada from August 18-25. Mila van Rensburg was a member of the New Zealand junior women’s four which fought their way into the A final against the world’s best, eventually finishing sixth. Coach Mark Stallard also had a successful regatta, guiding the under-23 pair of Oliver Welch and Josh Vodanovich to gold in the pair. Sculler Oscar Ruston, also coached by Stallard, finished fourth in the U23 single.
RUGBY
naments coming up.”
“At first we didn’t think it was going to be a long-term injury and I was always hopeful of making the [NZ] team again … luckily I am back just in time.”
Given her battle to regain match fitness, Katie was far from confident about her chances of re-selection.
“I was very scared because there are so many good girls around … it’s really tough competition to get into this team. It was very nerve-wracking but I am so grateful they put their faith in me.”
Katie and the NZ team leave for Fiji on Thursday, playing a series of games until September 22, culminating in the OFC final.
Like last year, the 15-year-old will have her birthday during the tournament.
In 2023 she celebrated by scoring a late winner in the final. This time around, just being back to full match fitness and contributing in any way she can to a repeat NZ victory will be a very welcome present.
FREE RENTAL PROPERTY HEALTHY HOMES CHECK
Five Marlborough Boys’ College First XV rugby players have chosen to attend the 2024 Crusaders Knights camp in early October. They are Ben Gibbons, Mason Nicklin, Anru Erasmus, Rico Nicklin and Leo Marfell.
SQUASH
NZ secondary schools squash captain Jack Frisken had a busy and successful time at the recent 2024 NZSSS Trans-Tasman Squash Championship in Lower Hutt. He competed in 10 matches, seven singles and three doubles, losing just one single and prevailing in all his doubles games with partner Ben Jones from Wellington in straight sets. He was part of a NZ side which claimed all three trophies, the test series between NZ, NSW and Queensland, then the doubles trophy and finally the test match against a combined NSW and Queensland team. NZ won this test by 25 matches to 5.
Katie Pugh has battled hard to recover
CLASSIFIEDS
JOHNSTON, Peter Kenneth
Born Aniseed Valley, Nelson 09.11.1926. Died Blenheim 29.08.2024.
In his 98th year, in the excellent loving care of Staff at Ashwood Retirement Village, Blenheim. Formerly of Henderson Auckland, Mount Maunganui Tauranga and Blenheim. A Life well lived as a Tramper/Mountain Climber, St. John’s Paramedic/Tutor, Member of SARs, Wood Worker’s Guild, Wood Turner, (supplier of excellent hand-made rocking chairs to family) Masonic Lodge Free Mason, Sheep Shearer and Foreman Stevedore for the USSCo. at Port of Auckland and Port of Tauranga. Dearest Brother of Gillian James, and the late Joan Hunt, and the late Garry Johnston. Devoted and much-loved husband of the late Pat (Garratt) and the late Molly (Webber-Borman). Dearly loved and special Dad and dad-in-law, of Kathryn & Warren, Helen, Gus and Lynnaire, Bruce and Debbie. Dearly loved step-dad and good friend of Ann, Denis and the late Jeanette, Gary and Diana, Peter and Linda. Adored, fun loving, rocking-horse and go-cart maker Grandad and Great-Grandad of the Johnston, Trezise, Edwards, and Borman Families. Adored uncle, great-uncle, brother-in-law and cousin of the Johnston, James, Garratt and Borman Families. Messages to PO Box 9 7240, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, Blenheim or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz. According to Peter’s wishes a private cremation has taken place.
Locally Family Owned Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004 www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
WOODWARD, Judy
Passed away peacefully with her daughters at her side, on Saturday 24th August 2024, aged 77 years. Much loved and cherished Mum and Mother-in-Law of Sara and Darryl, Georgie and Regan. Very special Nana to Hannah, Hazel and Maeve. Loved sister of Mary Hayes and Rose Arbuckle (deceased). Messages to 10 Temple Mews Renwick 7204 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Waterlea Resthome and Wairau Hospital. At Judy’s request a private farewell and cremation has been held.
Locally Family Owned Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004 www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
DEATH NOTICES
BARRATT, William (Bill)
Passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 31, 2024. Aged 95 years. Beloved husband of the late Rachel. Dearly loved Dad and father-in-law of Mark and Jenny, Michele (Shelly) and Phillip, Sue and Derek, and loved by Rachel’s family. Loved granddad of Aimee, Joel, Benn, Luke, Daniel, Chelsea, and great-granddad of eight. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Patricia (d. 1979). Special thanks to the caring staff at Seaview Rest Home. Messages may be sent to 73 Kent Street, Picton 7220. In accordance with Bill’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place. ‘Your eyes will see the King in His beauty and behold a land that stretches afar’. Forever in our hearts and memories.
Respectfully cared for by
Geoffrey T Sowman FDANZ Phone (03) 578 4719 www.sowmans.co.nz
HEENAN, William (Bill)
On 25 August 2024, passed away peacefully at home after a long battle, aged 90 years. At Bill’s request, a private cremation has taken place with a Memorial Service to be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street on Saturday 7 September at 1.00pm. Bill’s wishes were for bright clothing to be worn
Locally Family Owned Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004 www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
MANEY, Desmond Douglas (Des)
Passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 31, 2024. Aged 96 years. Loved husband of the late Diana and father to Simon, Lelia, and Nicholas. Grandfather to Elite and Casey and great grandfather to Arjun. Anchors Away. Messages may be sent to 5 Suffolk Street, Picton 7220. A Requiem Mass for Desmond will be celebrated at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 5 Otago Street, Picton at 9.30am TODAY Wednesday, September 4, followed by private cremation at the Sowman Crematorium.
Respectfully cared for by Geoffrey T Sowman FDANZ
Phone (03) 578 4719
www.sowmans.co.nz
NATHAN, Lyree Gaye
On Tuesday 27 August 2024, suddenly at her home, aged 58 years. Dearly loved Mum of Kiriana Nathan and nana of Taiki-Johnson. Loved friend of Sonny. Messages to 57 Eskdale Road, Porirua 5024 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
A celebration of Lyree’s life will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street, Blenheim on Wednesday 4 September at 1.00pm followed by private cremation. The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
Locally Family Owned
Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004 www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
NATHAN, Lyree Gaye (Lulu)
Loving daughter of Sheila (Fairy) Simpson and Roger Nathan (Huntly). Loved sister of Donna (Brisbane), Tina (Christchurch) and the late Jason. Loved by her Aunties and Uncles, cousins aplenty and her many friends.
An Angel for God’s Garden
Love you my Darling Forever From your Mummy.
Locally Family Owned Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004 www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
HOLDAWAY, Allan Stanley
Passed away at Maxwell Lifecare 26th August 2024 in his 78th Year. Loved Son of Ron and Grace Holdaway (deceased). Loved Husband of the late Glenis. Dearly loved Father and Father-in-law of Leigh, Melanie and Allan, Gregory and Rovena. Beloved Bundy to Bella, Tom and Emma, Eddie, Stan and Ruby. A special thanks to the wonderful teams at Waterlea Rest Home Forget me not Wing and Maxwell Lifecare for your loving support for Allan and Family. Messages may be sent to The Holdaway Family, 103 Wither Road Blenheim or www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A celebration of Allan’s life has been held. The service was live streamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services Website.
Locally Family Owned
Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004
www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
