Photo:
Lifeguards keen for swell of members
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Rarangi Surf Lifesaving Club is hoping to recruit on and off water volunteers for their Whites Bay home this summer.
The long-standing club are set to hold a series of open days geared towards encouraging new members.
Senior lifeguard Brendon Ferguson says there’s much more behind the club than getting in the water.
“We are gearing up for what hopes to be a stunner out at the club.
“Like all voluntary organisations we are always looking to grow our member numbers, but who wouldn’t want the opportunity to learn some skills, gain some qualifications and spend time at a beautiful location of Whites Bay.
“Just because it’s a water-based organisation don’t let that put you off - there are options for you to be a wet or a dry member if swimming isn’t for you.”
Brendon hopes to see anyone interested will come along and meet the team to register inter-
est on the 20 and 23 October.
“The junior surf set up introduces the participants to a variety of skills that will keep them safe in the water while having fun at the same time, and as they get older, they transition to Rookie Lifeguards where they can help patrols and run junior surf sessions.
“The great news is that you don’t have to commit to every Sunday and you can come and go as you please but who wouldn’t want to spend Sundays at the beach with friends and family.”
Rarangi SLSC Key Dates:
Sunday 20th October:
Junior Surf Open Day Stadium 2000 10am to 12 noon
Wednesday 23rd October: Lifeguard and Patrol Support
Training/Info evening 5:30pm at Stadium 2000 Swim Club room
Sunday 10th November: Junior Surf starts at Whites Bay
Saturday 16th November:
Rarangi Carnival at Whites Bay (lots of people young and old from Canterbury and Tasman region having a fun competition)
Saturday 16th November–Sunday 23rd March 2025:
Whites Bay Lifeguard Patrols on Saturday 1-5pm and Sunday 10:30am-5pm Email: brendon@rarangislsc.org.nz
Community cancer funding flourishes
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Greg Stretch has seen Marlborough’s community spirit firsthand, and it has given him plenty to smile about.
After his first Daffodil Day as General Manager of Cancer Society Marlborough, Greg has been inspired by the support the event received.
And thanks to the collective community effort, this year’s local Daffodil Day total has exceeded the budget set for next year.
Receiving a cheque from the Marlborough Vintage Car Club’s (VCC) Daffodil Day fundraiser last week, Greg says he “can’t thank everyone enough.”
“When I started, I was told their [VCC] morning tea is one of the highlights of the year - and the scones definitely lived up to expectations,” he smiles.
“…seeing many here today, especially nodding at the fact we keep the money in the region, reinforced to me why we do that and the local impact that we do have for so many.
“The support from people and organisations this year, like the Vintage Car Club does nationally but also Luke Roberts cutting his dreadlocks, the Marlborough Cake Decorating Guild’s cake raffles, and stores selling and individuals buying daffodils, has just been immense.
“We as a local team and national organisation can’t thank everyone enough.”
Vintage Car Clubs across the country raise about $70,000 to $80,000 each year.
Local VCC representative Chris Bird says knowing the money raised in Marlborough stays locally is reassuring.
“Donations are still rolling in but at present this is our best year ever with over $85k raised to date”, said VCC national president George Kear.
“The beauty of The Cancer Society is all the funds raised stay in the area of the branch rather than getting lost in a head office pot”.
The Marlborough Vintage Car Club would like to thank their Daffodil Day sponsors Marlborough Lines, O’Donnell Park Barging Ltd, Wadsco Trucks, Eckford Engineering, Ayson Sur-
vey, Blenheim Testing Station, HR Engineering, Mag and Turbo Blenheim, Glenn Harris Plumbing, Geoff and Mary Buick, and the Marlborough Woodworkers Guild.
Cancer Society Marlborough’s Greg Stretch receives the cheque from Marlborough Vintage Car Club’s Chris Bird. Photo: William Woodworth.
Community turn out in force for friends’ farewell
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Hundreds of people have farewelled and celebrated the lives of two close friends, tragically taken too soon.
Brayden Allen, 19, and Jamie Cunningham,19, passed away in a single-vehicle crash at Tuamarina. The crash, last weekend, also claimed the life of Tyler Matekohi-Shields.
On Monday, the grieving community turned out in force to pay tribute to the much-loved pair as they shared their last goodbye.
A long convoy of friends and family, led by Brayden’s ute on the back of another, with New Zealand and South Africa flags flying, were welcomed to the Port Marlborough Pavilion in Picton by a
rousing rendition of haka Tika Tonu.
Gumboots were worn on the request of family and friends of both young people as it was their favourite footwear.
The massive turnout saw people from all areas come together to mourn and pay heart-felt tribute to two friends whose lives touched so many.
People stood in silence, some with smiles and some with tears as the dedications got underway.
As well as being played to people gathered outside the pavilion, the service was live streamed to family and friends across the country and the world.
The message shared by many was one of continuing to cherish the memories and tackle the future
with the same deep love and infectious energy for life Brayden and Jamie brought to everyone they met.
Brayden and Jamie were farewelled by another, even more passionate rendition of Tika Tonu, then exited through a Picton Rowing Club honour guard with the Queen Charlotte College haka as they were taken for a private burial.
To honour Brayden and Jamie, a donation to the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust would be greatly appreciated to a/c 03-1354-0462100-00, Ref. CUNNINGHAM & ALLEN.
Messages may be sent to the Allen, Ellis and Cunningham families, c/- PO Box 110, Blenheim 7240.
As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more prevalent in everyday life, it’s natural for people to feel apprehensive about such rapid advancements in technology. AI is transforming industries from finance to transportation, sparking both excitement and fear about the future. However, one area where AI is creating significant positive change is in healthcare. From early diagnostics to personalized medicine, AI is playing a crucial role in improving the quality of life for many. A great example of this impact can be seen in the field of hearing aids.
AI-powered hearing aids are revolutionizing the way people with hearing loss experience the world. Traditional hearing aids amplify sound, but they often struggle in noisy environments or when multiple conversations are happening simultaneously. AI-enhanced hearing aids, however, use machine learning algorithms to distinguish between speech and background noise, dynamically adjusting sound settings to focus on what’s important. By utilizing AI with hearing technology, users are gaining more personalized, adaptable, and efficient solutions, improving not only their hearing but also their day-to-day quality of life.
As this technology continues to evolve, it’s important to remember the value of
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combining innovation with the expert care and guidance that hearing care professionals provide. AI is a helpful tool, but it can’t replace a qualified hearing care professional’s expertise and a holistic approach. Blackmore Audiology consistently provides clients with the most up-to-date developments in the audiology field. Thanks to being a completely independent clinic, the business is able to access all brands of hearing aids and give unbiased advice and service tailored to each person’s individual needs.
Blackmore Audiology is hosting an open day on the 23rd of October so you can come along and find out more about how AI and machine learning is revolutionizing hearing aids. They will be providing free hearing and wax checks. You will also get the chance to have a listening experience with the world’s only hearing aid with a dedicated real-time AI chip providing speech from noise separation and unpresented speech clarity.
“It is an exciting time to be an audiologist,” says Sara Blackmore. “The opportunity to help people improve their hearing is always a privilege and these new developments make it even more so. We are really looking forward to demonstrating these new opportunities to clients that will improve their hearing ability and enhance their daily lives even further.”
Hundreds of people gathered to honour and celebrate the lives of friends Brayden Allen and Jamie Cunningham, above.
Photo: Supplied.
Photo: William Woodworth.
Poetic support for Alzheimer charity
the support was always there was a comfort.
PAULA HULBURT
sculpture move with the wind, made Liz’s last days happy ones, Gavin says.
Writer Gavin Kerr with the fish sculpture he gifted to his wife Elizabeth Kerr.
Photo: Paula Hulburt.
Olympic hero back where it began
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Marlborough’s most successful Olympian has been officially acknowledged and welcomed back to the club where his journey began.
At age 15, Tom Murray started rowing with the Blenheim Rowing Club
(BRC) to keep fit for rugby season.
Fifteen years later the Tokyo gold medallist and Paris silver medal winner was officially welcomed home.
Mayor Nadine Taylor, members of the BRC and the wider Marlborough rowing community, plus friends, family and members of the
public joined Tom as he returned to his home club.
On Saturday morning, Tom, with Olympic medals in tow, was gifted a Blenheim club blazer as recognition of his club loyalty.
He also received an official acknowledgement of his success from Mayor Taylor on behalf of the region.
Health funding petition plea
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
A petition asking for the Government to increase investment in the health sector stopped off in Marlborough Friday ending its first South Island tour.
The Buller Declaration started in Westport on 28 September in protest at the state of healthcare in the Buller region, with officials from across the health sector and wider affected community signing.
Organiser Malcolm Mulholland spent last week touring the South Island and arrived in Blenheim on Friday to gather signatories, including local health organisation representatives, Mayor Nadine Taylor, Councillor Deborah Dalliessi and Nelson MP Rachel Boyack.
“The one thing I’ve found is people thinking this only impacts Buller, but the Buller region is just where frustration with the state of their local health system kickstarted this petition.”
The next leg of the trip is Nelson and the top of the South, before Greymouth, Hokitika and returning to Westport, before Malcolm plans to take the petition to the North Island.
Nelson MP Rachel Boyack travelled over the hill to sign the Declaration, saying that the long-awaited Nelson hos-
pital upgrade is at risk with the current decision-making for the health system.
“We’re seeing this Government downgrading the Dunedin hospital upgrade and massive other cuts to health across the board, and it shows us the Nelson hospital update isn’t safe,” she says.
“The Nelson upgrade provides critical updates to aging facilities, as necessary as giving our Rescue Helicopter enough room to land, but instead this Government thinks tobacco companies deserve more money instead”.
“As we’ve seen in Dunedin’s protests, cutting regional hospital plans impacts not just Nelson, but is critical for people across the Top of the
South”.
Marlborough District Councillor Deborah Dalliessi said while Council has little impact on health system decision making, signing the Declaration is personally close to heart having worked in the health sector herself.
“It was important to us to support this Declaration seeing more investment in rural health, especially here in Marlborough.
“Health infrastructure is a pillar of communities, and while as a Council we don’t get directly involved in decision-making, a key concern of my community-focused positions is advocating for improving what impacts our constituents the most.”
Tom Murray, centre, with Mayor Nadine Taylor and fellow Blenheim Rowing Club members.
Photos: William Woodworth
Nelson MP Rachel Boyack, Malcolm Mulholland, Dr Peter Meihana, Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor and Councillor Deborah Dalliessi. Photo: William Woodworth.
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A trio
happy fisherman show-off the day’s catch on board a Tasman Fishing Charter.
Photo: Supplied. Story Page
Marlborough wine glows gold
ADRIENNE MATTHEWS
The Marlborough Wine Show, sponsored by QuayConnect, has announced its top wines for 2024, chosen from over 500 entries. Organised by Wine Marlborough Ltd. which represents the Marlborough Winegrowers Association, this important event celebrates wine produced throughout the region while drawing attention to its diversity, excellence, and regional character. It is also a valuable opportunity to encourage wine tasting talent in what is New Zealand’s largest wine producing region where approximately 80% of the
country’s wine is made.
The wine industry is a vital one for Marlborough, accounting for 20% of its GDP and contributing one in five jobs. Wine Marlborough leads the way in building and promoting the region’s reputation as a leading light in the wine industry, championing the sector throughout New Zealand and globally and the Wine Show is an opportunity for growers and producers to see how their wines compare with others.
This year saw almost double the number of gold medals awarded with 86 in total. Chief Judge Stu Marfell praised the exceptional quality of this year’s
entries, noting a significant increase in gold medals for Sauvignon Blanc. “The Current Vintage class saw double the golds compared to 2023,” Marfell stated. Guest Judge Sam Kim, who has over three decades of experience tasting Marlborough wines, highlighted the Current Vintage Sauvignon Blanc as the standout of his career. He remarked, “The 2024 vintage is the best I’ve ever tried, with remarkable fruit purity, intensity, and a balanced acidity that makes them incredibly satisfying.” Kim, who is also the founder of the wine review site Wine Orbit, noted that the Marlborough Wine Show’s boutique nature allows judges to thoroughly evaluate and discuss wines, making it a valuable platform for quality assessment. He emphasized the importance of showcasing subregional diversity, particularly for Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.
Ten gold medals were awarded in the Current Vintage Chardonnay class,
considerably more than the four last year. Pinot Gris with seven gold medals and Riesling with six also performed better.
The Wine Awards are also an excellent opportunity for student winemakers to show their talents and judge Marfell was delighted with the quality produced in this category which resulted in a number of gold medals awarded.
On October 18 the Celebration Long Lunch will be held, featuring the presentation of the 2024 Wine Marlborough Lifetime Achievement Awards along with the announcement of the trophy winners.
The 2024 vintage is the best I’ve ever tried, with remarkable fruit purity, intensity, and a balanced acidity that makes them incredibly satisfying.
Sam Kim
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2024 Marlborough Wine Show Tasting Team. Photos: Supplied.
A judge takes part in the rigorous tasting process
Fishy business this summer
Photo: Supplied
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Avid anglers are gearing up for a packed summer season, as the new trout, whitebait and blue cod spawning seasons get underway with a flourish.
Fish & Game’s Jacob Lucas says rangers observed the busiest trout fishing opening day in some years.
And while rough weather limited opening day catches, trout numbers are still in great shape with stabilising conditions on the way.
“Anglers can fear not, trout numbers in most of our rivers are in great shape and catches will definitely improve as river conditions stabilise and we get some more sun,” Jacob says.
He hopes this summer will see a significant growth in numbers and skill of freshwater anglers, thanks to the generous bequest of legendary angling couple Jim and Fleur Ring.
From November to April, Nelson Marlborough Fish & Game will host a series of lessons and workshops. They include spin, soft bait and fly-fishing lessons across the region and practical Women on the Fly fishing workshops, as well as developing a mentoring programme pairing expert and intermediate anglers.
“Jim was arguably one of the most successful anglers this region has seen,” Jacob says.
“They were also a perfect angling match, with Jim aiming for perfection in the art of fly fishing, and Fleur a qualified
entomologist.
“We also want people to catch more fish on our accessible lowland fisheries, so targeted programmes to improve success on the Wairau and Motueka, Jim’s favourite, will be held.”
Josh Ponder of Henderson’s will be hosting the Nelson Marlborough Fish & Game’s spin, soft bait and fly-fishing lessons in Marlborough.
“We look forward to getting as many new people to have a go as possible,” he says.
“There’s nothing quite like the joy of getting into the great outdoors and seeing how much enjoyment fishing can bring to all ages.”
“Whether you want to go trout fishing, try spin fishing for kahawai at the Wairau River mouth, surfcasting off our stunning beaches or get out in a boat offshore to catch your dinner, our experts here at Henderson’s are on hand with a wealth of expertise to share with new fishers through to experienced ones including some epic new lures.
“If you would rather be under the water, then our huge spearfishing range will meet all your needs - we’ve also got a load of great new products instore that will make everyone’s season more exciting and successful.”
Fisheries New Zealand district compliance manager Stuart Moore says that while he hopes to see happy anglers and divers coming home safe with their catches, they need to check local limitations before
Thomas Darling with a brown trout from Opening Day of the 2045-25 fishing season.
dropping lines or going diving to prevent fines and prosecution.
“Everyone can do their part to follow the rules to protect our kaimoana for future generations, as today’s rules protect tomorrow’s catch,” Stuart says.
Challenger fishing areas limit fishers to 20 finfish and 50 baitfish, with specific limits around species for recreational fishers to follow.
Local bylaws, such as the ongoing pāua and scallop bans, the annual Marlborough Sounds blue cod spawning season ban and accompanying ban of set nets in the Kenepuru, Pelorus and Queen Charlotte Sound until the 20 December, are in place.
are outside a coverage area,” Stuart says. Cathy McHugh of D’Urville Island Wilderness Resort and Tasman Charters says that their backyard waters are looking promising.
While keen fishers have already booked out their summer charters
Cathy is urging people heading out properly prepare for longer fishing trips.
“Everyone needs to have a local help plan in place alongside the usual radio and cell phone contacts when in the Outer Sounds particularly, as they are outside the Coastguard’s 30-mile limit,” she says.
“This summer is looking like it will be fabulous out here -we’ve just had
Contact Fisheries New Zealand about suspicious fishing activity on 0800476224 or email: ncc@mpi.govt.nz. Information on the fishing rules for Marlborough can also be found at: https://www.mpi. govt.nz/fishing-aquaculture/ recreational-fishing/fishingrules/challenger-fishing-rules Register your Fish & Game interest for this summer’s programmes by using the QR link to fill out a quick survey or email nelsonmarlborough@ fishandgame.org.nz.
Larissa with an impressive kingfish caught while on a fishing charter last week. Photo: Supplied.
One of the well-equipped Tasman Charters Vessels. Photo: Supplied.
Raising the Bar for summer
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Bins are organised, gloves are available and a sausage sizzle will be cooking – all that’s needed is as many helping hands as possible at the Wairau Bar this Saturday.
The Wairau Bar is not only historically significant to Māori as the site of the known earliest settlements in New Zealand, but also as a historically and continually important site for food. And as the summer season gets closer, Aimee Payne hopes to see the historically significant and much-treasured piece of Marlborough cleaned up of dumped rubbish this Saturday.
“A friend of mine Hannah was walking their dog and sent photos of how much rubbish was there and were motivated to organise a clean-up but didn’t know where to start.
“There are a number of us who are regulars at the bar, not only is it an incredibly beautiful spot but you can almost feel the history there.
“We always pick up what we can manage and take bags with us to do so with that in mind - it has just gotten to the point where it is beyond any one person.”
However, thanks to Council and local organisations keen to help tidy the Bar, Aimee hopes this weekend will restore the Bar to a tidier space for all to enjoy this summer.
“Blue Bins Marlborough are not only supplying the bins and driver at no cost but also doing a drop off and pick up in the same day on a Saturday which is hugely generous of them, and Council are waiving the dump fees for the day’s collection.
“Rangitāne are kindly supporting
with some putēa towards kai, and we will be running a sausage sizzle after the event with a vegetarian option.
“Cleaning up this area not only helps preserve its physical beauty but also acknowledges its deep-rooted significance, ensuring that future generations can continue to appreciate and learn from it - let’s work together to safeguard this treasured landscape for all”.
For the Saturday 19 October cleanup, volunteers are asked to meet at the Northern Entrance at 10am for health & safety and get gloves and bags, and are asked to bring sunblock, water, friends and whānau.
To RSVP, email aimee@rarangislsc.org.nz or hit going on https:// www.facebook.com/events/s/ northern-wairau-bar-cleanup/512197205038101
A&P showstoppers sought
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
As the rural community’s annual highlight day quickly approaches, time is ticking for entries in competitive events at the Marlborough A&P Show.
“From knitting and baking competitions to equestrian, livestock, sheep, cattle, pig and dog contests, we’re really keen to see projects start and as many entries as possible before October 25 when entries close”, says Marlborough A&P Show secretary Alice Parkinson.
“We’re seeing record interest year on year for the A&P Show with record numbers of trade sites, plenty of fun for the family and the ever-popular parade and terrier race, thanks to our fantastic sponsors Bayleys Marlborough, MotorWorld Group and PGG Wrightson.
“But it’s also something many people don’t know how to get involved in such a cornerstone event on the region’s calendar.” Entries for this year’s show are
easier than ever with an online option. Alice says it’s the competitive entries combined with a great day out which make the A&P Show such a fantastic community day.
“The A&P Show isn’t just an awesome day out for the family, it’s a day for people to show their talents between dog trials, shearing and equestrian events, through to animal husbandry, pets and the creative and handmade sections”.
The Marlborough A&P Show is on 9 November, with adult entry for $10 and kids under 16 free.
Enter this year’s Marlborough A&P Show competitions at https://showday.online/show/ marlborough-a-p-assn
Locally Owned and Operated
A clean-up at the Wairau Bar is set for Saturday. Photos: Supplied.
This year’s Marlborough A&P Show is shaping up to be one of the best as people are encouraged to get their entries in. Photo: William Woodworth/File
Top country hospitality with a twist
From sunny outdoor garden settings to classic country pub décor, the Grovetown Hotel brings Marlborough all into one pub.
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Being highlighted as one of New Zealand’s six best country pubs came as a very pleasant surprise for the Grovetown Hotel’s Damian Johnson.
Peter Janssen’s new book New Zealand Pubs highlights 170 historic pubs across the country, but the Grovetown was given special mention on Thursday in the New Zealand Herald by Peter. And in their 15th year of ownership, Damian says he’s proud of how the hotel and the community around it helped develop it’s unique atmosphere to build a place combining classic Kiwi pub hospitality, crafted drink menu and homestyle Japanese cooking.
“It didn’t even take a week until we had our first visitors arrive coming up from Canterbury on the book’s recommendation for a weekend meal on an adventure to tick off each of the pubs and have the publican sign it, so there’s a real supportive community behind rural pub culture”, says Damian.
“I think we cater for the crosssection of Marlborough - as
I’ve seen our customers and Marlborough in general develop over the years we tried developing with it by bringing new fresh twists.
“It’s not about shouting from the rooftops about our place, but through word of mouth, keeping our sixty years plus regulars on side, and having our connections with the Young Travellers network.”
The rustic Kiwi pub originally drew in Damian, but fresh ideas were needed to keep the ‘romantic’ family business idea running.
“I’m a local lad and I was looking for a place to settle down after travelling for work for years, and 15 years ago we visited the Hotel for a day and bought the place seven days later – it wasn’t even on the market at the time!
“Despite struggling to find our footing for a few years, we haven’t had to replace any staff at all in our kitchen, and we’ve achieved our goal of a fun family business with a point of difference, and the kids already eyeing up their positions and helping here and there.
“Chinami originally was flipping burgers and doing Sunday roasts
but that just didn’t feel genuine to us as owners.
“We gradually moved, with trial and error, to our homestyle Japanese menu and introduced new flavours for regulars to love –but we still do steak and chips and pub classics with our own twist with plenty of love in it.
“The same thing happened with the bar – it’s gone from having VB on tap to a range of craft beers and local wines, so we have regulars chatting and drinking craft sour ales alongside crate bottles from the fridge.
“The taxidermy and memorabilia are all gifts from families with notes from as late as the 50’s that tell first-hand the connection
many of our long-time punters have to their pub, and we gradually transitioned by gaining their trust while keeping the heart of the place intact”.
For this summer, Damian has grand ideas to continue honouring the Grovetown Hotel’s historical purpose as a self-sufficient stop.
“This place is originally a major place for locals and travellers to buy food and drink made here, so we grow what
we can for our menu.
“It’s our lifestyle business, as we’re a hotel as well and run our HR business from the offices – and we close from the 22nd of December to the 6th of January to give our staff and ourselves a rest
“We’re just developing a guest brewery and ‘brew-seum’ in the works, honouring the Diamond brewery that was on site in the early days.
“The welcoming family feel here is everything for me, from long time Grovetown locals to eager foodies, to our Young Travellers Network connections and people coming from further abroad.
“In my eyes, it’s Marlborough, all in one pub.”
Grovetown Hotel’s Damian Johnson.
Photo: William Woodworth
Driving around Marlborough it’s easy to see there’s a lot of vineyards being pulled out with most being quickly replanted and redeveloped. Most, but not all. As a case in point, there is an 80 plus hectares along Rapaura Road being taken out of production for at least the next two seasons, possibly longer.
Have we finally reached “peak vineyard” in Marlborough, with vineyard removals roughly matching new vineyard developments? After all, we’ve been planting an ever-increasing vineyard area for over 50 years now. At some stage we will reach either the physical limits (taking climatic, topographic, water availability and soil type into account) for vineyard development or market saturation for the resulting grapes and wine. On the market side the export volume of white wines, which make up 95% of wine exports, have slipped over the last 12 months. This has lead to murmurings of both another price cut to Sauvignon Blanc grape prices and contract yield caps being imposed for the coming vintage. Last season’s Sauvignon Blanc grape price drop and low yields took the gloss off the year for many growers. Having the same again is going to be tough for some.
Yield caps are when companies only buy the tonnage that they have committed to in their grape purchasing agreements with their grower
www.grapesense.co.nz
Marlborough
~ Mike Insley
suppliers, rather than the total production from a contracted vineyard. As many vineyards can have considerably higher production potential than their contracted tonnage, the imposition of yield caps can mean surplus grapes are available for sale. These grapes come available at the height of the harvest season, with winery space, harvesting and trucking capacity already locked in by wine companies. This doesn’t put the grower in the strongest of bargaining positions when trying to sell to a third party. Selling surplus fruit at a lower price to a company other than the one your contracted to, probably isn’t in the grower’s long term interest either, but sometimes needs must.
From a wine companys’ perspective, contract yield caps are a way limiting grape intake to match future wine sales. If sales are contracting, companies are likely building up stock from prior vintages. It’s not good business to invest in winery storage infrastructure to hold wine that isn’t selling.
With the current wine market pressures and the impact of grapevine trunk disease on Sauvignon Blanc vineyards planted in the mid 1990’s to early 2000’s, Marlborough could well be at peak vineyard area, at least for a few years. Peak vineyard doesn’t necessarily mean peak grape tonnage though and that is something that the entire industry needs to grapple with.
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WORDS BY MIKE INSLEY
Billy has a go At...
Dragon boat paddling
Marlborough Weekly Reporter William Woodworth jumps headfirst into an adventure he’s never tried before
“It’s a really unique action”, Donna Booth corrects my dragon boat paddling technique.
“Get your inside hand over your head and use your outside arm as a piston.”
After too many summers spent kayaking and rowing dinghies, I need Donna’s crash course. The sharper, steeper dragon boat paddle needs a different technique. Helping the Simply the Breast crew manoeuvre the boat from Blenheim Rowing Club into the Wairau River is something I can do, however.
“It’s rare we get to use the 20-person boat – we generally only get enough crew to use the 10 so tonight is a treat for us,” Donna smiles.
“You want your bottom hand to almost be in the water when you’re paddling, and as straight and as deep as possible – dragon boating is partially about power, but all about timing and teamwork.
“Watch the person at the front of the boat on the other side and keep your timing to them.”
She takes me through the different calls I’ll need to know while aboard.
With my technique somewhat corrected and the dragon boat
launched, it’s time to board. Being seated at the back of the boat, I’m first paddler on and last off after sweep Dana and drummer Haley.
As the 17 strong crew and ever-reliable Sandy the Sandbag find comfortable positions, we paddle backwards and aim upwind and upstream.
“The paddle up is going to be hard going against the wind and the water, but we’ll get some real pace coming back with the river,” Dana explains.
“Wind up, get warm, and we’ll be doing sets of 15 and 20 full power paddles on my call,” she tells us.
We pull as one as the dragon boat lurches forward with much more horsepower than prepared for - I almost slip off the back of my seat before catching up with the timing and working out my most consistent technique.
We use our might to propel the boat up the Wairau alongside rowers and kayakers, before the rest call comes out.
Everyone reaches for water bottles, and I ask for constructive criticism while my heartrate recovers.
After five training sets upping the intensity, the boat turns downstream for race simulation starts – 20 short fast paddles before
stretching out into full power for another 20. The aim to hit 12 and a half k’s per hour now, so now I’m warm we’re told to give it what we’ve got.
We take starting positions and take off – and with the evening sun on our backs we match rhythm again.
There’s only the sound of us paddling as one to Haley’s drumbeat, followed by whoops of celebration as we hit our goal within the first 20 paddles.
“Feels like there’s a bit of extra power coming from the back of the boat”, I hear someone happily say from the front. I hope they’re talking about me.
The crew is happy with the night’s paddle - and I’m told while my timing could do with some work, there’s potential in my paddle. “Dragon boating rolls fun, fitness,
and competition all into one,” says member Kim Swan.
“It’s such a lovely way to meet people through a competitive, low impact team sport at any age so
long as you can get in and out of the boat – and a wonderful way to spend time a week on the water too.
“We’re primarily for local breast cancer survivors and friends, but our friends at the Marlborough Dragon Boat Club based at the Wairau Rowing Club are always looking for keen paddlers.”
Megan Luff, of the Marlborough Dragon Boat Club, echoes Kimsaying the sport brings together all ages and fitness levels into a great team environment.
And there’s always room for more aboard at their Monday and Wednesday trainings.
“We’re an enthusiastic mixed group of paddlers, and dragon boating has a range of ages and fitness levels all working together to improve our physical health, mental health and social life – as the season is just starting it’s the perfect time to get involved with either team paddling on the Wairau River,” she says.
“You don’t have to be fit or strong, you just have to be keen to be a part of what is an amazingly accessible, awesome team sport. Contact Simply the Breast on 021 131 2213 or stbdragons@ gmail.com
Paddling against the Wairau is a great warmup. Donna Booth helps me with my dragon boating technique.
Eastern States Speedway opening night
2. John Wratt, Sydney Warburton, Rex Warburton and Mackenzie Slater.
3. Wesley Weedon and Archie Cooke
4. Ollie Rowe, Casey Jones, Joseph O’Rork, Brodie Jones, Nicole Bourke, Shae O’Rorke, Rondy Bourke, Jazz Jones, Ashleigh Hughes, Israel Inwood, Neil Rowe and Sophie Rowe.
5. Emily Pinkerton and Jaimee Rogers.
6. Matteo Sixtus and Hannah Wadsworth.
7. Brian Lynnie, Oceania Peterson, Melissa Holly and Jaz Petersen.
8. Muzz Greybell-Reuben, Leslie Page, Cassandra Page, Gypsy Lee Page and Brad Page.
Photos: William Woodworth
1. Danica Corbett, Sussanne Carrock, Dallas Corbett and Finn Corbett.
SPORT Tough end to historic season for Tasman
PETER JONES
Tasman’s 2024 rugby season, which has delivered so much joy to the top of the south sporting community, hit a Red and Black wall in Blenheim on Sunday.
The Mako may have enjoyed an historic Ranfurly Shield reign mid-season, but they were unable translate that into NPC success, going down 62-14 to a rampant Canterbury side in a one-sided quarterfinal.
Tasman captain Finlay Christie was not about to make excuses for the nine-tries-to-two pounding.
“[Canterbury] got a roll on early and it was one of those days – the harder we tried the worse it got … they just out-played us.
“We couldn’t get any decent ball down their end, they held territory very well … when we did get a wee crack we scored but it was so limited that we just got suffocated really.”
The former All Blacks halfback said there was plenty to be proud of during the course of the season.
“Obviously it was great winning the Shield, making a piece of history with an awesome bunch of lads that worked extremely hard for each other, you could see that on the field.
“Absolutely gutted that we couldn’t get it done today and the season is over, but we still have so many things to be proud of,”
Finlay added.
The last time the Mako ventured onto Lansdowne Park they were flying high, picking up their sixth consecutive victory and defending the Log o’ Wood against a previously-unbeaten Wellington outfit. At that stage they had played and beaten all four NPC semifinalists.
But since then, the wheels have wobbled and, latterly, fallen off.
The absence of key players such as skipper Quinten Strange, Max Hicks, Quentin MacDonald, Sione Havili Talitui, crowd favourite Timoci Tavatavanawai, Ethan Blackadder and Levi Aumua for crucial matches began to tell, Tasman’s depth being fully tested. Then there was the Shield factor. Along with the physical and psychological pressure that come with defending the trophy, holders have a massive target on their backs, every challenger lifting their game when they come to town.
Add in the fact that Tasman’s “Storm Week” came at the worst possible time and it would be remiss not to suggest the crowded schedule also played its part.
Although the Mako players and staff were loathe to point to those factors as contributing to their late-season slump, preferring to sing the praises of their opponents, they surely did.
Head coach Gray Cornelius summed up his side’s final outing
with, “they probably played their best and we probably played our worst”.
“We knew the quality of the side we were up against and we were more than confident that we could match them, but it just wasn’t to be.
“We just weren’t good enough.
After about 30 minutes we had made 90 tackles to their 10, so straight away you are on the back foot … there was a lot of petrol taken out of the tank.”
Asked how he would feel when reviewing the season overall, Gray said there would be “mixed emotions”.
“We have had some good days but this will be a tough one to scrub
out of our memory. You always remember the last one … but in a few weeks we will be able to reflect on some of the qualities we showed during the season.
“We produced some really gritty performances when we had to deal with a bit of adversity … we created a bit of history. Also, I will remember the way the community got in behind us and the way the lads have also helped get buyin from the community, that was really cool this season.
“We have also blooded a heap of young guys as well and they will be better for the experience,” Gray added.
While a record loss to Tasman’s “Big Brother” is always hard to
swallow, and seeing the chance of a third top-tier NPC title slip away, most people’s recollections of the Mako season will be fond, centring on the dramatic Shield win, the buoyant crowd in Blenheim for the first defence, the wet-weather win over Auckland and a style of play that put a smile on the faces of the ever-growing band of Mako supporters.
Scores: Canterbury 62 (Corey Kellow, Mitchell Drummond, Braydon Ennor, Ngatungane Punivai 2, Tom Christie, Chay Fihaki, Brodie McAlister, Billy Harmon tries, Isaac Hutchinson 7 con, pen) Tasman 14 (Levi Aumua, David Havili tries, Willie Havili 2 con). HT: 33-7.
Tasman flanker Braden Stewart on the burst.
Photo Shuttersport.
Club cricket underway
PETER JONES
Wairau made the early running when the 2024-25 club cricket season got underway at Horton Park on Saturday.
The season began under sunny skies with four Twenty20 fixtures, each of the four senior club sides playing twice.
Wairau opened up against Celtic on the number one ground and eked out an eightrun win, following up with a more clearcut 55-run victory over Renwick later in the day.
Renwick had earlier claimed a one-wicket win over Wairau Valley on the number three wicket, where Celtic also beat Wairau Valley, prevailing by 23 runs.
The Wairau v Celtic match was lowscoring. Wairau batted first and reached a mediocre total of 121-5, Andrew McCaa’s 34 anchoring the innings, which included 24 wides as the Celtic bowlers battled to find their line in the early stages of the season. Greg Knowles and Luke Holdaway both picked up a brace of wickets.
In reply, Celtic were eventually dismissed off the penultimate ball of their innings, registering 113. Josh Poole’s 35 was top score while McCaa made the most of a wicket that was beginning to favour the slower bowlers, taking 6-11.
Wairau also batted first against Renwick, this time reaching 146-5, Hamish O’Brien scoring 41 and Griffin Carter an unbeaten 53. Piers Landon-Lane claimed 3-33 while Nathan Brooke-Taylor took 2-25.
Renwick’s reply was patchy, being dismissed for 91 in the 19th over. Tim May top scored with 16, Hayden Gaudin contributing 15. MBC student Hayden McWilliam produced the outstanding bowling figures of 6-18 from his four overs of medium pace.
The Renwick v Wairau Valley clash was tight. Valley put 105 on the board, being all out in the 19th over. Matthew Stretch scored an unbeaten 53, while pace bowler Brooke-Taylor grabbed the outstanding figures of 5-14.
Renwick’s chase was far from convincing, eventually reaching their target in the 18th over, despite losing nine wickets along the way. Gaudin’s 35 anchored the innings, although the 38 extras conceded by the Valley attack certainly helped Renwick’s cause. Rep seamer Sam Boyce did his bit, taking 4-4, but the Green Machine got home with a wicket to spare.
The final match saw Celtic bat first against Valley, reaching 126-8, Holdaway amassing 25 while Tom Sutherland and Josh Poole added 23 apiece. Sukh Aulakh took 2-20.
Valley’s reply began well but slowed dramatically, some tight bowling restricting them to 103-4 at the conclusion of their 20 overs. Boyce chipped in with 35, Lachlan MacNeill adding 31, while Sutherland and James Croker both picked up two wickets to complete a tidy defensive fielding effort.
Next weekend Wairau play Valley while Renwick meet Celtic in the final round robin matches, leading into an afternoon final and third/fourth play-off.
College sides do battle
PETER JONES
The Marlborough Boys’ College First XI cricket side combined with three prestigious secondary school counterparts for a quadrangular tournament at Horton Park last week. MBC opened their season against a tough adversary, the talent-laden Auckland Grammar School First XI. Opting to bat first, Grammar racked up an imposing 301-6 from their 50-overs, their top-order batsmen quickly adapting to the slightly slower number one wicket on Tuesday. Best of the home side’s attack was spinner Dane Winstanley, who bagged 2-38 from his full complement of 10 overs.
The MBC batsmen struggled throughout against the sharp Grammar opening attack, which included two NZ age group players, eventually being dismissed for 60 in 25 overs. Number three batsman Luke Holdaway top scored with 31.
Day two saw MBC involved in a much more even contest, taking on Christ’s College, also on the number one wicket block.
Again, the home side fielded first and started superbly, having the Christchurch school reeling at 7-39
after 14 overs. However, a lower order fightback saw them grind their way to a respectable 210 before being dismissed. Baxter Croad led the bowling efforts with 3-22, while Nathan Brooke-Taylor chipped in with 3-41, Archie Cornelius took 2-53 and Kayse Holdaway claimed 2-17.
MBC’s reply began well, reaching 3-110 before the wheels began to fall off. Ultimately, they were dismissed for 196, leaving them 14 runs short. Luke Holdaway again led the batting, scoring a classy 60, while Ben Armstrong (31), Hayden McWilliam (34) and Lachlan MacNeill (21) were the best of the rest. Thursday saw MBC play their final match, against Otago Boys’ High School. The southerners batted first, scoring 180-8, in a match reduced to 35-overs per side by early morning rain.
Cornelius picked up 2-56 while Luke Holdaway claimed 2-34, the other wickets being shared around.
Once again MBC’s batting let them down, losing three quick wickets then slumping to be all out of 84 in the 30th over. Top scorer was MacNeill with 30. Grammar completed the tournament unbeaten, downing OBHS by five wickets and Christ’s by 106 runs. In the other match, Christ’s beat OBHS by one run.
It is a swing and a miss for Wairau batsman Baxter Croad in the final stages of his side’s innings against Celtic. Photos Peter Jones.
MBC batsman Lachlan MacNeill ducks under a short delivery during the college quadrangular. Photo Peter Jones
Golden Oldies to remember ‘Uncle Arthur’
PETER JONES
The life and times of a stalwart of Moutere and Marlborough Golden Oldies rugby will be celebrated at Spring Creek on Saturday, October 19.
The Arthur Pacey Memorial game will be played at Awarua Park, involving player from the Marlborough Vintage Musseleers golden oldies side and the Moutere club. Arthur Pacey joined the Magpies in 1954 and played well into his eighties, holding most administrative positions in the club as well.
The former Marlborough and South Island Maori rep played many years of senior rugby before turning his attention to Golden Oldies through the Moutere Magpies and Vintage Musseleers sides, winding up an astonishing 71-year rugby career in 1995. He died aged 96 and a funeral was held at Awarua Park to celebrate his lengthy service.
Two trophies will be up for grabs in the memorial match, one an old leather ball suitably mounted and the other a beautiful wooden mere carved by Athur’s son
Patrick. In true Golden Oldies fashion, no score is kept so it has become a tradition for the captains to swap the trophies at the end of the match so they can remain at the Moutere club.
Musseleers’ president Ray Haggland said, “It’s a great family day where everyone has a bit of fun, relives some past glories and shares a cold one to remember ‘Uncle Arthur’, as was affectionately known to everyone.”
This year’s game is scheduled for a 2pm kick-off on Saturday, all are welcome to attend and enjoy the occasion.
Sport Briefs
FINN’S UP:
Marlborough Boys’ College mountain bike ace Finn McKenzie continued his dominance of the national under-20 cross country division with a repeat win at the national schools champs in Christchurch. After coming out on top on home soil last year Finn doubled down at Adventure Park, edging out last year’s runner-up Eddie Adam from Dunstan High School over six gruelling laps. Finn has been a busy man over the school holidays, taking on nine races over 12 days. He finished runner-up in the NZSS cycling road race, finished fifth in the NZSS team time trial and third on general classification in the under-20 YUNCA junior cycle tour of Southland. At the MTB champs, another MBC rider, Alex Craig, was 26th in the 31-strong field. Other MBC riders were in action. In the under-17 boys grade Connor Pugh finished 10th with Gus Jackson 16th. Jono Planthaber came in 29th in the 50-strong U16 boys’ section, while Billy Hurren came 12th and Bruce Tunnicliff 14th in the U14 boys’ grade. MGC riders Emma Anderson and Brooke Goodsir came sixth and 10th respectively in the U15 girls’ event. Bohally’s Margot Davis was 10th in the U14 girls section. Seven Marlborough riders competed in the popular U13 boys’ grade. Kobie Madsen finished 4th, Renwick’s Ollie Brown 5th, Bohally’s Hugo Feather 13th, Tuamarina’s Lucas Abbott 15th, Ethan Spencer 21st, Jack Cutts 22nd and Keegan Ireland (all Bohally) 24th. In the U13 girls, Poppy Stocker, Bohally, finished 4th.
WATER POLO:
Marlborough’s under-16 girls water polo side, pictured above made quite a splash at the recent New Zealand division one champs in Auckland, finishing fifth among the 15-strong field. They opened with wins over Tauranga and Manawatu, lost to the powerful North Harbour combination, then beat Sea Wolf Grey from Auckland to complete pool play. In the top eight they started with a loss to Atlantis City Tridents from Auckland, then beat Marist Red, also from Auckland. This put them into a play-off for fifth and sixth against Hutt, which Marlborough won 7-2 to consolidate their position among the top U16 sides in the country.
ON A CRUSADE:
After a camp in Christchurch, Marlborough Boys’ College First XV players Anru Erasmus, Leo Marfell, Mason Nicklin and Ben Gibbons were selected in the Junior Crusaders team which played their Hurricanes counterparts in Wellington late last week. The match ended 41-41.
MAKO AWARDS:
The Tasman Mako have handed out their end-of-season prizes. It would be no surprise to hear that blockbusting outside back Timoci Tavatavanawai was named the Mako Man and Player of the Year. Prop Ryan Coxon was voted Defender of the Year, with Englishman Will Butler being named Rookie of the Year. Women’s Player of the Year and Mako Woman of the Year for 2024 was halfback Lucy Brown. Women’s Rookie of the Year was front rower Jett Hayward while fullback Sarah Jones was named Mako Defender of the Year.
Sport Start fund given significant boost by NBS
A Sport Tasman funding initiative that breaks down financial barriers to allow more kids to participate in sport has been given a significant boost thanks to a new partnership between Sport Tasman and local banking services provider NBS.
Sport Start allows more tamariki and rangatahi to take part in physical activity opportunities by providing the financial assistance they need to cover all or some of the cost of registration fees for sport. The fund is open to young sports lovers in Nelson, Tasman, Marlborough, Buller and Kaikōura. Applications can be made through clubs or organisations that have registered with Sport Tasman. Each child is allowed two applications per year with the fund providing $30 per application for five to 12 year olds and $50 per application for 13 to 18 year olds. Lesley McIntosh, GM Community Outcomes of Sport Tasman explains “Sport Start is a localised fund. To have a local organisation such as NBS support our kaupapa and
mission of reducing inequitable barriers to participate in physical activity is exciting.
The costs associated with our tamariki and rangatahi taking part in sport is a real barrier for many whānau and Sport Start provides an opportunity to ease some of this burden.
Enabling youth to participate in physical activity is a must as the benefits to their overall wellbeing and connections are invaluable. We love that NBS
values this too. To say we are looking forward to our partnership with NBS, to enable tamariki and rangatahi from across the region to access and enjoy physical activity, is an understatement.”
NBS General Manager Commercial, Howie Timms, echoes the sentiment of Sport Tasman “We are so pleased to be working with Sport Tasman on this new sponsorship. We both see that this funding
will remove some financial barriers that will enable more rangitahi to participate in sport. We know that physical activity leads to better health and mental wellbeing outcomes, so we are delighted to be involved.”
To find out more about the Sport Start fund and how to make an application, visit the Sport Tasman website sporttasman.org.nz or email admin@sporttasman.org.nz
About Sport Tasman
Sport Tasman is one of 14 charitable regional sports trusts that support New Zealanders to be more active and healthy.
Their aim is to enhance lives through physical activity. Sport, active recreation and play are their key tools to enable this.
As a charity, Sport Tasman work alongside communities in Kaikōura, Marlborough, Buller, Nelson and Tasman to create and support countless physical activity opportunities.
Sport and recreation enriches lives physically, socially, emotionally, cognitively and even spiritually. It contributes economically an estimated $5.2 billion to New Zealand’s economy.
About NBS
For over 160 years, NBS has provided personal, business and community banking services to local people, offering a wide range of banking services including transactional and savings accounts, term investments, home and business loans. With eight branches located in the high streets of Nelson, Richmond, Motueka, Tākaka, Murchison, Westport, Greymouth and Ashburton, NBS is committed to serving the communities in which they operate.
NBS people take pride in providing exceptional personal service and use their local knowledge to make timely decisions for their clients.
As a ‘mutual’ institution, NBS is owned by their clients. This model allows NBS to provide meaningful financial support to the community through sponsorships and grants to hundreds of sporting, arts, health, educational, and environmental organisations. Over the last three years, NBS has invested $3.6 million back into the community. NBS is not a registered bank. For further information on NBS visit nbs.co.nz.
Arthur Pacey with former All Blacks captain Todd Blackadder. Photo supplied.
Nic Foster of NBS with Ed Shuttleworth, Sport Tasman’s chief executive.
Ring craft
PETER JONES
Top of the South Boxing Association fighters produced some outstanding results at the recent New Zealand Boxing championships in Christchurch. Over 200 competitors entering the weeklong event with every boxing association taking part. Despite the Top of the South contingent being the smallest, they punched well above their weight, the six fighters winning three gold medals and three silver medals over six different weight divisions. Rogene Daquioag from the Marlborough Boxing Club was outstanding, winning three fights in three days to claim the NZ under-63kg title. Isra
and two wins, claiming the NZ under-54kg title, while Nyala Stevenson, also from Arapawa, fought a straight final in the 50kg class, also taking gold. Kane Jensen, from Reefton, took the silver medal in the 60kg class, while Kaiau Burns, also from the Reefton club, did the same in the 100kg class. Nikita Watson, from Box On Boxing, fighting in the under 63kg section, also picked up silver.
Rogene (63kg light welterweight), Israel (54kg bantamweight) and Nyala (50kg flyweight) have been chosen to represent New Zealand in Australia in March, 2025. The local association, which is non-profit, is on the hunt for sponsors to help with the costs of sending
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Top of the South gold medal winners with Glen Cotton and Raymond Madsen. Photo Jackie Bull
Rogene Daquioag is declared the winner.
MONDAY
MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS BARBERSHOP CHORUS. 7pm, Spring Creek Hall. If you love singing, come and join us. Ph: Chris 021445261.
BLENHEIM SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING 7pm, Whitney St School Hall. Ph: Heather 02102587325.
BLENHEIM BEGINNER LINE DANCE CLASSES 2-3pm & 6-7pm. Senior Citizen’s Hall, 172 High St. Ph: Judith 5787554 / 0212341095. First lesson free, $7 per lesson after that.
CARE & SHARE A place for creatives to meet, encourage & share their skills. 9.30am fortnightly. Barnies, Nativity. 76 Alfred St. Ph: 5783909.
ROTARY CLUBS BLENHEIM Meet Mon & Tues 5.30pm. World-wide service club for men & women doing great things in your community. For info on meeting venues. Ph: Blenheim Club Frank Porter 0272781546, or Blenheim South Club Secretary Dean Heiford 0212462642.
STEADY AS YOU GO CLASSES, Mon, 10.30-11.30, The Foundry, John St, $2. For info: Ph: 5793457.
TARGET RIFLE SHOOTING, Summer shooting. 2nd & 4th Mon of month, 7.30pm, Athletic Park range, Riverside Club. Visitors welcome. Cost $10.
TUESDAY
KNITTERS & SPINNERS Meet 10am, Picton library. Bring your knitting for this social catch-up.
TUESDAY BLIND WINE CHALLENGE, Tues, 10:30am - 10pm, Fidelio Cafe & Wine Bar. Come and try a mysterious wine by the glass every. Wines and questions change weekly. 18+. $14.
PICTON TABLE TENNIS for adults 10-12pm. Little Theatre, Picton. $4 Morning tea included. Ph: Ernest 0275888453.
PICTON LINE DANCING, Tues, 10-11.30am. Picton Anglican Church Hall. Beginners welcome. $7 per class. Ph: Carol 0212125252 or Raewyn 021715484.
MARLBOROUGH WOMEN’S CLUB MAHJONG, 1 -
3.30pm, 12 Battys Rd. Ph: Gail 0272214121. $4.
STEADY AS YOU GO Gentle Exercise/ Balance Class for Seniors. Tues, 11.30-12.30pm, St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St. Ph: 0273852333 or e: donna@stchristophers. co.nz. $3.
PERSISTENT PAIN SUPPORT GROUP, Tues, 5-6pm. Dropin group for people with persistent pain & those supporting them. For info Ph: Cindy 0273809120
WELLBEING CHATS at CARE Marlborough. Tues, 12:301.30pm, 26 Percy St, Blenheim. 2 student counsellors are here running Wellbeing Chats. Free. www.carem.nz. Enq: admin@carem.nz.
TENNIS AT MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB, Tues, 8.3012pm, Marlborough Tennis Club, Pollard Park, Parker St. Social Doubles Tennis. Morning Tea at 10am. Non-Members $5. All Welcome. Ph: 0275786436.
JUMP N JIVE FOR UNDER 5’S Come along to our preschool rhythm and music group. 9.30am, The Foundry on John St. Jump n Jive runs during school terms. Morning tea included. Check out tautokotrust.org for more info. Gold coin donation.
RENWICK ARMS COUNTRY CLUB CARD SECTION, Tues, 1pm, Redwood Tavern, Cleghorn Street, Blenheim. Meet and play EUCHRE and CRIBBAGE. Beginners are welcome to learn and play. $5 per afternoon. Ph: Chris 0272077631.
SUNBELT TOASTMASTERS Learn public speaking. Improve your confidence. 6.20pm fortnightly. St Mary’s Community Centre. P: 0276001788 or e: sunbeltblenheim@ gmail.com.
MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB, 8.30-12pm, social, Morning Tea 10am, Parker St. Non-members $5. Ph: 0275786436.
BLENHEIM CHORAL 7pm. Nativity Church Hall. www. blenheimchoral.org.
BLENHEIM AIR TRAINING CORP, 6.30-9pm, RNZAF Base Woodbourne. Recruiting new cadets aged 13 & 15 years. e: 27sqn@cadetforces.org.nz.
PICTON NEWCOMERS NETWORK 1st Tues of month, ‘COFFEE & CHAT’ 10-11am, Seabreeze Café, London Quay. New to town? Need help to settle in? Interested in local activities? We can help! Ph: Cathy 0210451799 e: picton@ newcomers.co.nz
RED HAT SOCIETY for women to enjoy fun & friendship. We meet 1st & 3rd Tues of the month. Ph: Tina 0211045945.
MARLBOROUGH HERB SOCIET Y Meet 4th Tues of month, 7pm. Various locations. To promote use, educate & identification of herbs. e: mhsgarlicpress@gmail.com.
STEADY AS YOU GO CLASSES, Tues, 11.30-12.30pm, St Christopher’s Church Hall, Weld St, or 1.30-2.30pm, Union Parish, 40 Broadway ,Picton. $3. For info: Ph: 5793457 WEDNESDAY
VINES VILLAGE MONTHLY MARKET, Sept-May, 3rd Wed of month, 4.30-7.30pm, The Vines Village, 193 Rapaura Rd.
MARLBOROUGH MULTICULTURAL CENTRE hosts newcomers, Wed, 10.30-12pm, Henry St. Opportunities for Newcomers & Marlburians to make friends, practice English & support each other. Ven y practica tu
inglés. Te esperamos. COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS casual parents/caregivers catch up. Wed, 10.30-12pm Town Plunket Clinic, 16 Henry St.
MARLBOROUGH CHINESE FELLOWSHIP Wed, 6-7.30pm, St Christopher’s Church. 92 Weld St. Chinese Christian group. Interested in the Bible or Christianity, desire to grow in the faith or would like to meet new friends, we welcome you. Ph: Guan 0221642782 | Mandy 0224326886.
MARLBOROUGH VINTAGE CAR CLUB MUSEUM, Wed & Sun, 1.30 – 3.30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, Blenheim. Other times by arrangement. Ph: Bill 0275784322. Donation appreciated.
BLENHEIM PETANQUE CLUB, Wed, 1-3pm and Sun, 1012pm, Games held at courts, 65A Weld St. Ph/Txt: John 021979323.
STRETCH & BREATHE Gentle strength/ balance class for seniors.Wed, 10-11am, St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St. Ph: 0273852333. $3.
ART WORKSHOPS WITH VERENA FREI, Wed, 12:302pm, 26 Percy St at CARE Marlborough. www.carem.nz enq admin@carem.nz. Free.
ROCK ‘N’ ROLL, Wed, 7.30pm. Blenheim Bowling Club, 65 Weld St. Ph: Erin 0272341709.
PICTON - SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING, Wed, 7.30pm, Picton Little Theatre. No partner needed. Beginner’s welcome. Ph: Lynda 0212600860.
CHEESE & CHEERS is part of the Silent Book Club Aotearoa. 1st Wed of month, 5.30pm, Vines Village, 193 Rapaura Rd. Ph: 035727170 for info.
BLENHEIM PROBUS CLUB Retired/semi-retired? Meet 1st Wed of month, 10am. Wesley Centre. Ph: Ann 5787046 | Jan 0226353919.
LIONS’ CLUB OF BLENHEIM, Tea Meetings, 1st & 3rd Wed (Feb-Nov). Serving the community for over sixty years. Would you like to know more about the Lion’s club or are interested in becoming a Lion? Ph: Delphine Lee 0299425004 | Helen Williams 0211458572.
PICTON LIONS, meet 1st Wed on month. Join a worthwhile volunteer group, both female & male members wanted, good fellowship, all money raised goes back to Picton community. Ph: Norman 0274336242.
WAITOHI SOCIAL CLUB, 3rd Wed of month, 10am, Picton Library. Meet for fun & friendship. After meeting we go for lunch if you wish to join us. Gold coin donation for morning tea.
BLENHEIM SENIOR CITIZENS 2nd & 4th Wed of month, 2pm, 172 High St. Entertainment and afternoon tea provided. Ph: Shirly 0210388616.
TARGET RIFLE SHOOTING, Summer shooting. 1st & 3rd Wed of month, 7.30pm, Athletic Park range, Riverside Club. Visitors welcome. Cost $10.
STEADY AS YOU GO CLASSES,Wed, 1.30-2.30pm, Marlborough Community Centre, 25 Alfred St, Blenheim. $2 . For info: Ph: 5793457.
THURSDAY
KEEP U MOVING Gentle indoor walking exercise for Seniors, Thurs, 11.30-12.30pm, St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St. Ph: 0273852333 or e: donna@stchristophers. co.nz $3.
PICTON BRIDGE CLUB, Thurs, 6.50pm, Port Marlborough Pavilion. Ph: Judy 021685348.
SOCIAL BADMINTON Thurs, 9am-12pm, Simcox Stadium Batty’s Rd. All adults welcome. Ph: Cathy 021503348. $6. PICTON TABLE TENNIS for adults, Thurs, 10am-12pm. Port Marlborough Pavilion, Waikawa Rd. Morning tea included. Ernest 0275888453. $4.
THURSDAY QUIZ NIGHT, Thurs, 6:30pm, Fidelio Cafe & Wine Bar. Get your team together to match wits for a fun evening of quizzing with plenty of time for great banter and laughs aplenty. Four Trivia rounds. 18+, unless with a parent or guardian. $20 per team.
KNIT & NATTER, Thurs, 10am-12pm, Blenheim Library. All welcome. Bring your yarn & have a yarn. For info Ph: Sue 5785317.
COMPANIONS Ages 60+, 1st Thurs of month 1pm, Harvest Life Church, 22 Nelson St. Ph: Avon 035792440 | Lorraine 035781240 |or Shirley 035783728.
MARLBOROUGH AMATEUR RADIO CLUB 2nd Thurs of month, 7.30pm, EOC, 4 Wither Rd. For all interested in Amateur Radio, Electronics & Emergency Communications.
COPD SUPPORT & EXERCISE GROUP Tailored for people with breathlessness. 2nd & 4th Thurs of month, 1.15pm. Redwoodtown Community Hall, Cnr Weld & Cleghorn St. Ph: Diana 0272105780 | Gillian 0274545102.
OLDER PERSONS SEMINAR, 4th Thurs of month, 10-1pm, St Christopher’s Church Hall. Speaker/Entertainment. MT & light lunch. Ph: 0273852333 or e: donna@stchristophers.co.nz. $6.
PIC TON POETS, 4th Thurs of month, 10.30-11.30am, Picton Library, all welcome. Ph: Lyn 0211294342. STEADY AS YOU GO CLASSES, Thurs, 10-11am, Anglican Church Hall, 54 High St, Renwick. $3. For info: Ph: 5793457.
FRIDAY
LIVE MUSIC FRIDAYS, Every Friday, 6:30pm, Fidelio Cafe & Wine Bar. Enjoy lively music every Friday evening with rotating musicians from the Top of the South and on tour, with varying music styles and genres. 18+, unless with a parent or guardian. Free.
MARLBOROUGH COMMUNITY CLUB INC Meet Fri, 4.30pm, Redwood Tavern. Courtesy Coach available. Wayne Love, Country Ramblers, and many more entertainers. Line Dancers, Rock and Roll Club. Raffles, Lotto draw. Fellowship, meals and drinks. Ph: Margaret 0276238269 for info.
NATIVITY TUNES FOR TOTS music, food & fun for pre-schoolers & caregivers, Fri, 9.30am, Nativity Hall, 76 Alfred St. During term time. Ph: 5783909.
SALVATION ARMY GAMES Rummy O or Cards ‘500’, Fri, 1-4pm. Ph: Moira for info 0284213163. $2 to cover afternoon tea.
BOLIVIA CARD GAME, Fri afternoons. Redwoodtown. Ph: Mal 0273157675.
PICTON NEWCOMERS NETWORK ‘SUNDOWNERS’, Fri, 5-6pm, Café Cortado on the waterfront. New to town? Need help to settle in? Interested in local activities? We can help! Ph: Cathy 0210451799 or e: picton@newcomers. co.nz.
LINK, Fri, 1pm, Nativity Centre Lounge, 76 Alfred St. Fun, board games & afternoon tea. Ph: 5783909 for info. Gold coin donation appreciated.
UPBEAT ORCHESTRA All ages. Instruments. Fri, 5-6.30pm, St Ninians Church Hall, Alabama Rd. From beginner-grade 5. e: upbeatorchestra@gmail.com.
MARLBOROUGH WOMEN’S CLUB ARVO, Fri, 2-4pm, 12 Battys Rd. Guest speakers. Dianne 0212147757. $5.
RENWICK SOCIAL TENNIS, Sat, 2-4pm (weather permitting), 10 Uxbridge St. https://clubspark.kiwi/RenwickTennisClub, FBook, or Ph: Leigh Andrews 0211913034 for info. Members $2, Visitors $5. CRAFT FAIR, Sat and Sun, Oct 26, 27, 10-4pm, Oct 28, 10-3pm, Havelock Town Hall. Free Entry, Lots of crafts and plants Supporting Alzheimers Marlborough RENWICK SOCIAL TENNIS, Fri, 4.30-6.30pm, (weather permitting), 10 Uxbridge St. https://clubspark.kiwi/RenwickTennisClub, FBook, or Ph: Leigh Andrews 0211913034 for info. Members $2, Visitors $5.
SATURDAY / SUNDAY
REDWOOD MARKET, Sat, 8-12pm, Redwood Tavern car park, Cleghorn St. Plants, garden products, flowers, crafts including handmade soaps, cards & jewellery. Raising money for your community.
PICTON RAIL & SAIL on the Foreshore. Mini train rides & yachts from 20 cents. Every Sun & the school holiday’s, subject to weather.
MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB, Sun, 3-5pm, Parker St Social Tennis Non-Members $2. All welcome. Ph: Joanna 0275786436.
BARNABAS CHURCH BLENHEIM, Sun Service, 4pm, St Ninians Church, cnr Riley Cres & Alabama Rd. barnabas. org.nz.
KETO SUPPORT GROUP meet Sat, fortnightly (approx. beginning & mid-month), 10am, Revival Café, Springlands. Informal gathering of folk interested in this dietary practice. No charge, no obligation but the coffee’s great! For info Ph: 0275057774
SOCIAL TENNIS AT MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB, Sun, 3-5pm, Marlborough Tennis Club, Pollard Park, Parker St. Non Members $2. All welcome. Ph: 0275786436.
BLENHEIM ROTARY BOOTSALE MARKET, Sat, 8am12pm, Railway Station carpark. Blenheim Rotary Bootsale operating over 25 years, funds to local/international projects. New or used items, plants, food, coffee carts welcome. See bootsalemarket on Facebook.
MARLBOROUGH STROKE CLUB a voluntary organisation dedicated to the wellbeing of those who have experienced a stroke, and to the support of their caregivers. We offer support, friendship & education with various meetings held each month. Ph: Vyvienne Dunlop 5783837 or 021929955.
MARLBOROUGH FARMERS MARKET, Sun, 9-12pm, A&P showgrounds. Local fresh & seasonal produce & products. SOUNDS ANGLICAN CHURCH SERVICE, Sun, 9.30am, St Peter’s - 30 Lawrence St, Havelock.
THE ROADHOUSE BREAKFAST for car enthusiasts of all genres. 1st Sun of month, Riverlands Roadhouse. Coffee cart on site, cafe has great food. 100+ cars at each of first two events.
BLENHEIM HEALING ROOMS open 1st & 3rd Sat of the month, between 11-12.30pm from Feb- beginning Dec. We offer free, confidential prayer for healing or other needs. You can find us at Connect, High St, Blenheim.
MARLBOROUGH QUILTERS, meet 2nd Sat of month, 10-4pm, Marlb Vintage & Farm Machinery, Brayshaw Park. Join us to learn quilting or bring your own projects. Sewing Machines available. Newcomer’s welcome. Ph: Liz 0212067382.
REPAIR CAFÉ, 4th Sat of month, 9-12pm, John’s Kitchen, 2 Redwood St. We’ll fix your small repair on site. Sewing, darning, bikes, small furniture, wooden items, toys, electronics & mobile phones. Donations accepted. BAHÁ’Í DEVOTIONS, meet, 1st & 3rd Sun of month, 10.3011.15am, Marl Community Centre, 25 Alfred St, 12th Lane. Blenheim. Cnr Farmers carpark. www.bahai.org. BLENHEIM RIVERSIDE RAILWAY Runs 1st & 3rd Sun of the month. We have Eftpos. Facebook - Riverside Railway. MARLBOROUGH ASSOCIATED MODELLERS SOCIETY miniature train rides 1st & 3rd Sun of month. $2. Model yacht & boat sailing Sun, 1pm-4pm, Brayshaw Park. GROVETOWN LAGOON plant/weed/mulch Wed, 9.3011.30am & Thurs, 1.30-3pm. Ph: Rosanne 0210709267. Sun session, every 2nd Sunday , 9:30am-12pm, Wairau Rowing Club, Steam Wharf Rd, Grovetown. followed by a BBQ. e: Justine Johnsonmarlborough@gmail.com. BLENHEIM FAMILY HISTORY GROUP, Informal gatherings, 3rd Sun of the month, 1.30-3pm, Family History Rooms, Brayshaw Park. Interested in Family History Research & building your Family Tree? For for advice & assistance. Ph: Lauri 578 8385.
GENERAL GROUPS
MARLBOROUGH BRIDGE CLUB, Mon, Tues, 6.45pm, Wed, 12.45pm, Connect Hall, 8 Beaver Rd. Ph: Christine 021315650 (Mon), Ann 0212296933 (Tues), Marsha 02102395252 (Wed).
RENWICK MENZ SHED, Tues, 8.30-2pm, Fri, 8.30-12pm, 54 High St Renwick. Left of church. Morning Tea provided. Ph: Dave 02102282592.
PICTON MEN’S COMMUNITY SHED, Wed, 8.30am-3pm, Sat, 8.30-12pm, 2 Market St. Ph: Bill Rogers 5735507. PICTON DAWN CHORUS, checking volunteer trap lines, walking through native bush. Ph: Jen 03 928 4957 ext 1. e: volunteering@pictondawnchorus.nz.
BLENHEIM MENZ SHED, Sat, 9-12pm, Mon & Thurs, 1-4pm, 4 Dillons Point Rd, Bright Centre Complex. Where men of all ages meet to just chill out or do projects for themselves or the community. We provide equipment, tools & workspace for most woodwork & metalwork projects. Ph: Dave 0212340057.
SENIORNET MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS Linkwater Hall, Queen Charlotte Drive. Tutors for people 50+ needing assistance with computer/smartphone. Ph: Ian Cameron 035742558 to arrange.
BROOKLYN CROQUET CLUB Tues, Thurs, Sat, 1pm, Golf Croquet, Whitehead Park grounds, Brooklyn Dr. Mallets supplied.
MARLBOROUGH MOUNTAIN BIKE CLUB committed to seeing mountain biking flourish in Marlborough. We hold regular rides suitable for all levels of fitness & ability. Including back-country expeditions, easy local rides, more serious mountain bike races. e: marlboroughmountainbike@gmail.com.
MARLBOROUGH TRAMPING CLUB A very active club. Mid-week, Sunday trips, overnight & extended trips. Info at www.marlboroughtrampingclub.co.nz or e: marlboroughtrampingclub@gmail.com
LEARN TO ROW, Sun, 8.30am or from 4.45pm on Tues & Thurs. Give rowing a go, or get back into rowing, with the Blenheim Rowing Club. We’ll teach you the basics and get you on the river with experienced rowers to get you started. More info: blenheimrowing.co.nz.
CUDDON C YCLING MARL Road racing alternate Sats, details on facebook. Loan bikes, coaching & tuition available. Ph: Chris 035780433 | Warren 021663910 for info. www. cyclingmarlborough.co.nz.
SIT AND BE FIT, Tues & Thurs, 1.15pm, Riversdale Community House. Ph: 5780469 | 0223007342. $2.
MARLBOROUGH GUILD OF WOODWORKERS, Mon, 9-12pm & 7-9pm. Wed, Sat, 9am-12pm, 1st Sun of the month, 1-4pm, Brayshaw Park. Wooden toys, projects. Ph: Philip 5705188.
WORKING BEE – TE WHANAU HOU GROVE TOWN LAGOON plant/weed/mulch, Wed, 9.30-11.30am & Thurs, 1.30-3pm. Ph: Rosanne 0210709267. Sun session, every 2nd Sun, 9.30-12pm, Wairau Rowing Club, Stream Wharf Rd, Grovetown. Followed by BBQ. e: justinejohnsonmarlborough@gmail.com.
ULYSSES CLUB, Coffee, Sat, 10am, The Runway Café. For info : marlborough@ulysses.org.nz or marlborough.ulysses.org.nz.
NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS, Thurs/Sat 7-8pm, Riversdale Community House, 131 Budge St. MARLBOROUGH COMMUNITY VEHICLE TRUST Have difficulty getting to medical appointments in NELSON? This trust was created to carry people to Nelson for medical appointments. Ph: 5741311 or e: soundsvehicle@gmail.com. AA MEETINGS Marlborough area. Meetings: Mon, 7.30pm, Plunket Rooms, 21 Bythell St | Web, 7.30pm, Picton Model Railway, 1 Picton Wharf | Fri, 7.30pm, St Luke’s Church Hall, 20 Ferry Creek Rd, Spring Creek | Sat, 7.55am, Salvation Army Rm, 35 George St | Sun, 7.30pm, Church, 54 High St, Renwick. Ring alcoholics anonymous for help to stop drinking. Ph: 08002296757. www.aa.org.nz.
TRADES + SERVICES
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING: E: hello@topsouthmedia.co.nz
DEATH NOTICES
CUNNINGHAM, Jamie; ALLEN, Brayden:
A celebration of Jamie and Brayden’s lives was held at the Port Marlborough Pavilion, Endeavour Park, Picton at on Monday October 14. The service was livestreamed and details may be accessed via our website www.sowmans.co.nz/upcoming-funerals. In lieu of flowers a donation to the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust would be greatly appreciated and may be made online to a/c 03-1354-0462100-00, Ref. CUNNINGHAM & ALLEN. Messages may be sent to the Allen, Ellis and Cunningham families, c/- PO Box 110, Blenheim 7240.
Respectfully cared for by Geoffrey T Sowman FDANZ Phone (03) 578 4719 www.sowmans.co.nz
PLANT: Eleanor Elsie
On 8 October 2024, peacefully at Bethsaida Rest Home, in her 80th year. Dearly loved wife of the late Gerald and a much-loved mother and mother-in-law of Mike and the late Megan (Picton), the late Christine; and James (Rotorua), Andrew and Helena (Murapara), Matthew and Mereina (Wanaka). A loved grandmother, great-grandmother and sister. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz In accordance with Eleanor’s wishes, a private service has been held.
Locally Family Owned - Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004 www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
CLAUSEN: John Herbert Thomas
On 6 October 2024, at Wairau Hospital, aged 95 years. Dearly loved husband of the late Margaret and a loved father and father-in-law of Richard and Michelle (Blenheim), Peter and Sue (Dovedale), David and Kay (Nelson). A respected grandad and great-grandad, and friend of Venessa Frew. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Marlborough Hospice Trust (Acc. No. 03 1369 036520700 Ref: Clausen) would be appreciated. Special thanks to the caring staff at Wairau Hospital. In accordance with John’s wishes a private cremation has taken place. An informal service for John has been held.
Locally Family Owned - Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004 www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
SITUATIONS VACANT
Tipper Truck & Digger Drive ALL-ROUNDER
PUBLIC NOTICES
Notice of Annual General
12th November at 7pm
