Mural Magic
Coastguards take top awards
PAULA HULBURT
The dedication and skills of Coastguard Marlborough’s volunteers have seen the team honoured at a national level.
Coastguard volunteers from across the country gathered at Auckland’s Grand Millennium last weekend to celebrate the 2024 Awards of Excellence.
Jessica Cameron was named as Emerging Young Volunteer of the Year and Lisa Delaveau was Unit Support Volunteer of the Year. Coastguard Marlborough took
Community Engagement Unit of the Year.
Lisa joined the team seven years ago as Unit Secretary. She manages meeting minutes, correspondence and administrative duties as well as publishing a monthly newsletter for the crew, ensuring the smooth operation of the unit.
With a life she describes as “revolving around the sea,” the role was a perfect fit.
“My partner was already part of the crew, so he dragged me along, I loved it so stayed,” she smiles.
Lisa’s philosophy of dividing her time between three main areas of
“I really love the sea, and my life revolves around it. We live on our yacht; I work at Seafarer Marine Engineering and most evenings I’m doing something Coastguard.
Mural artist Charlotte Buskin, Spring Creek School’s Keaana Millan-Ratima and AJ Gardiner, and Four Square Spring Creek’s Billi Richmond in front of the newly painted mural.
Photo: William Woodworth.
STORY PAGE 6
Cruise ship season starts
PAULA HULBURT
The Crown Princess arrived at Port Marlborough in Picton this week as the first cruise ship of the summer season.
Marking the beginning of what is expected to be another strong season for cruise tourism in Marlborough, the ship’s arrival was celebrated with a formal ceremony.
Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor and members of Port Marlborough’s Port & Marine team presented the ship’s captain with a locally made plaque and a gift of Marlborough wine.
The plaque is specially designed and handcrafted in Picton from local timber
with paua shell inlay, and the Marlborough wine was presented in a locally crafted box.
Port Marlborough CEO Rhys Welbourn says the occasion was a “wonderful way” to open the season.
“We are honoured to have welcomed the captain and crew to Picton for the first time.
“Our region is ready for another strong cruise season, with both local businesses and the wider community set to benefit.
The economic impact of cruise tourism is undeniable, and it is great to see Marlborough once again thriving as a key destination.”
News in brief
A&P SHOW DATE
Save the date for the Equestrian and dog trial competitions are on 8 November. The Marlborough A&P Show is open to the public on 9 November.
COUNCIL PLANS
Marlborough District Council is changing the way it develops its annual and long-term plans to streamline the process. A report presented by CEO John Boswell and CFO Geoff Blake to the Economic, Finance and Community Committee last week was strongly supported by the mayor and councillors. “The new process means we will engage with the public earlier, giving ourselves time and space for a broader assessment of options and more focused analysis of fully costed activities and outcomes,” he says.
MARLBOROUGH LINES
Two new directors have been appointed to the Board of Marlborough Lines. Matt Kerr and Matt Todd will replace retiring directors Jonathan Ross and Steven Grant. Matt Kerr is a long-standing supporter of Marlborough Stadium Trust which he currently chairs as well as serving on the Marlborough Hospice Foundation Trust. Matt Todd has spent 20 years as CEO of the Eastland Group in Gisborne.
Blue cod season facing cut
PAULA HULBURT
Blue cod season could be cut to help boost falling fish numbers.
Overfishing in the Marlborough Sounds is putting too much pressure on blue cod numbers, despite catch limitations over the last decade.
Worried experts are considering extending the seasonal closure in a bid to increase the sustainability of the popular fishery.
Fisheries New Zealand is seeking feedback on the proposal which could see the closure extended by almost a month.
“We’re considering a range of options and management tools to address overfishing and increase abundance of blue cod in the Marlborough Sounds,” director fisheries management says Emma Taylor.
She adds high fishing levels, especially in the summer, combined with marine heatwaves and sedimentation issues is affecting fish health.
The current season runs from1 September – 19 December. Proposals could see the date extended to either 31 December, 5 January or 15 January.
Ministry of Primary Industries are asking for public feedback on the proposals which would come into effect from the end of 2025.
A survey in 2021 revealed fishing in the area was “significantly higher” than could be sustainably supported. This saw the commercial catch limit reduced.
An advisory group of tangata whenua, fishers, and local resi-
dents was also formed to identify measures to reduce fishing pressure and increase abundance in the fishery.
The group met throughout 2023 and identified several potential measures to improve sustainability and abundance for the fishery.
• closure of spawning areas to fishing to rebuild spawning populations
• reduction of the combined daily bag limit for finfish in the area
• options to increase information on recreational fishing, such as voluntary catch reporting
• an educational campaign to improve fishing practices
• tools to mitigate release mortality. “Marlborough Sounds blue cod are a taonga, and iconic for many Kiwis. We want to hear from fishers, tangata whenua, the local community, and anyone else with an interest in the fishery,” says Emma.
Submissions can be made online or by mail until 5pm on 1 December 2024.
There will be 2 public drop-in information sessions to present information and assist with making submissions:
• Tasman Bay Cruising Club in Nelson/Whakatū on Tuesday 12 November 2024 (4.30pm to 7.30pm)
• Queen Charlotte Yacht Club in Picton/Waitohi on Thursday 14 November 2024 (4.30pm to 7.30pm).
For further information and general enquiries, email info@mpi. govt.nz.
Overfishing in the Marlborough Sounds is putting too much pressure on blue cod numbers. Photo: File
The Crown Princess arrived at Shakespeare Bay. Photo: Supplied.
Money concerns spark charity redundancies
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Nine staff have been made redundant and school programmes cut as Graeme Dingle Foundation bosses respond to budget cuts.
The well-known child and youth development charity has helped thousands of Marlborough students through a variety of initiatives since it started 13 years ago.
Regional General Manager Kelvin Watt says the organisation is not immune to the nationwide pinch many charities and businesses across the country are feeling.
The hardest part of the restructure has been the redundancies, Kelvin says.
“It’s been really challenging to let people go from our front facing team here, because they become family and are always popular with the kids and schools that they work with.
“Our intent is to restructure and rebuild back, but we have to be adaptive to continue reaching 4500 students each year here in Marlborough.”
The Stars Teina programme for
year 7 and 8 students and the Toroa Career Navigator course have been stopped.
Primary school programme KiwiCan moves from a weekly to fortnightly programme in 12 schools, while Stars and Career Navigator programmes in the region’s colleges will continue as usual.
“We’re one of many amazing organisations feeling the crunch with drops in funding this year, which have come from decreases in each of our diverse funding
streams,” Kelvin explains.
“KiwiCan has been a key one, as we spoke with parents and discussed the situation of moving to a fortnightly programme for next year, so we still reach 12 schools in the region with the intent to return to weekly classes.
“It’s a consolidation phase, as not 13 years ago GDF Marlborough was a one-person operation – but in the situation today we decided we’d rather restructure programmes and continue in a more limited scope”.
Proud new owners of Laser Electrical Blenheim
Introducing Zane and Vanessa Monteith, the new proud owners of Laser Electrical Blenheim, a company that has proudly served the Marlborough community for over 20 years.
Many of you already know Zane, who has been a part of the Laser Electrical Blenheim team for almost 10 years. He started as a Project Manager and has served as General Manager in recent years. Zane began his electrical apprenticeship with the Laser franchise more than two decades ago, and has since worked both in New Zealand and internationally, growing his passion for the electrical trade along the way.
Vanessa has been with the Laser Electrical family for the past three years, taking on the role of Office Manager. While her background is in the travel and tourism industry, she brings valuable business management and customer service expertise to the team. Together, they are excited to continue the legacy of totally
dependable service that Laser Electrical has built in the Marlborough region. They are proud to lead a talented team whose expertise and dedication have been key to the company’s success, and look forward to expanding their services while maintaining the high standards Laser Electrical clients have come to expect.
“Blenheim is home for us, where we have chosen to raise our family and we are deeply committed to supporting our local community,” says Zane.
“We take pride in offering topquality, reliable electrical, fire alarm, security, and building
compliance services to the region. Our goal is not just to maintain the business but to enhance it, ensuring Laser Electrical Blenheim continues to grow and contribute to the prosperity of Marlborough.”
With the continued support of their customers, strong relationships with suppliers, and the community, the team look forward to many more successful years ahead. Laser Electrical Blenheim will remain a trusted name you can count on for all your electrical, fire alarm, security, data, and CCTV needs.
Kelvin says the need for courses to help build students’ confidence is still “very much needed.”
“A key for our support is our strong community connection and involvement, and while we’re forging ahead with programmes, fundraising plans and events for next year we’re needing to find our balance first.”
If you’d like to contribute to the Graeme Dingle Foundation Marlborough’s ongoing local work supporting students, go to www.bit.ly/ShootingStarsDonate.
Redwoodtown School Kiwi Can kids taking part in a tug of war. Photo: Supplied
New owners of Laser Electrical Blenheim, Vanessa and Zane Monteith. Photo: Anna Simpson.
Dedication all in a day’s work
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
her life, work, family and friends and volunteering in the community has worked well for her.
“I genuinely love all three and I have found the periods in my life where things start to go wrong is when one of those three areas are out if balance.
“It’s not difficult to juggle when you love what you do.”
Lisa is described by her team as a great support, especially after challenging callouts.
Being a positive person helps, she explains as well as the skills and strong connection among the whole team.
“The culture is just positive, supportive and encouraging, it’s just a really nice place to be.
“Awesome people who make you feel
appreciated.”
Both Lisa and Jessica describe the coastguard team as family, with support key to helping them do the roles so well.
Jessica joined Coastguard Marlborough at just 17 years old and has been a key crew member for seven years.
Since then, she has consistently demonstrated key Coastguard values of teamwork, integrity and excellence.
Her “let’s get stuff done” attitude within the team has made her a popular member with a bright future, her team say.
With a passion for the water and the Sounds, volunteering was a great fit, she explains.
“What sparked me was how can I give back to the community, with a passion for the water and love for the Marlborough sounds, coastguard was the way I can do it all.”
Jessica achieved both her Skipper Restricted
Limits (SRL) ticket and Integrated Support Command(ISC) Master in six years – the latter with the second highest pass rate achieved through the CNZ training system. She has also inspired other female crew members, to the point where the unit can launch two CRVs simultaneously with allwomen crew.
Both women are keen to see others join the team too.
“It doesn’t take long to become part of the coastguard family, we have lots of women, men, young and older, all accepted for who they are and everyone has something different to offer,” Lisa says.
“There are many roles, some shore based, some water based, something for everyone.”
“Jump in and give it a go, come join our family,” Jessica says.
To find out more about volunteering opportunities visit www.volunteers. coastguard.nz
Ready for bite of Big Apple
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Fundraising duo Simon Popham and Kaycee Polkinghorne are ready to take their bite at the Big Apple’s biggest running race this weekend.
After a Masquerade Ball fundraiser, a charity quiz night and ongoing fundraising efforts for Cure Kids raised nearly $20,000 for the children’s medical research charity, the duo will be competing in the New York Marathon on the 3 November as part of Team Cure Kids.
Cure Kids focuses on raising funding to enable research to help save, extend and improve the lives of children diagnosed with serious life-impacting and life-limiting health conditions.
And as they cross the start line alongside 60,000 other runners, the duo says they’ll be representing everyone who helped them to get to the start
line just as much as they’re representing an incredibly worthy charity.
“I’m not sure it feels real just yet, and probably still won’t until we actually get there,” Kaycee says.
“We’ve been having to fit training and fundraising between work and family duties, and I’m working the day before we fly and the day when we arrive back, so it’s going to be a whirlwind visit of a lifetime.”
Simon and Kaycee will be two of more than 60,000 runners cheered on by the 1.5 million spectators on the 42-kilometre course, and Simon says he can’t wait to feel the atmosphere of one of the world’s most iconic races.
“The city will just be buzzing - I think one of our biggest challenges will be to keep on top of our adrenaline and emotions, so we don’t run our whole races in the first few kilometers,” he says.
“It hasn’t always been smooth sailing
to get to our fundraising target, but we always knew it would be a few months of adventure and hard work to get here and knowing it’s all been for an amazing cause makes the trip just that much sweeter.”
The TCS New York City Marathon starts at 5.30am on Marlborough Anniversary Monday – watch on Sky or follow the Simon and Kaycee on the TCS New York City Marathon app
To donate, text Marathon to 305 for a $3 donation or scan the QR code.
Simon Popham and Kaycee Polkinghorne are jetting off to the Big Apple and are raring to get going in this year’s New York City Marathon as part of Team Cure Kids.
Photo: William Woodworth
7 Days 7am - 7pm
Jessica Cameron, above, was named as Emerging Young Volunteer of the Year. Lisa Delaveau was Unit Support Volunteer of the Year. Photos: Supplied
Making mural magic
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
It started as an idea to cover a container, now a mural outside Four Square’s Spring Creek store is connecting a community.
The Marlborough-inspired mural painted by artist Charlotte Buskin has already been much admired.
Spring Creek, Tua Marina, Grovetown and Rapaura schools what their favourite parts of Marlborough’s natural world are.
Hills and patterns in the sun rays”.
schools,” Billi says.
Four Square owner/operator Billi Richmond and artist Charlotte Buskin have celebrated putting final touches on the eye-catching new mural at the Spring Creek store by inviting students to sign the mural on behalf of their school.
As a key part of the design process, Charlotte asked artistic students from
After six months of collating ideas from four local schools, planning the mural layout and waiting for sunny weather, Billi and Charlotte are both stoked to have the project finished just in time for the busy summer season.
“The painting itself is about a 10-day job, but it’s been a long process to get to this stage”, says Charlotte.
“All of the ideas for the mural have come from local students telling us what they love about where they live into one scene, from fantails, tui and eels in the stream to the vineyards with roses, the Wither
“Murals are for people to stop and admire, so the little details like having contributing schools sign the flax leaves are just as important – but it’s just as eye catching driving past”.
The form given to students earlier in the year had both drawing and written space, giving Charlotte plenty to choose from.
And while the scene depicted isn’t of any specific place in Marlborough, Billi says she’s ‘stoked’ with the finished summary of Marlborough’s natural world.
“The mural really started from us wanting to beautify our eyesore of a container in a community focused way, and there’s no better way to do that than with local
“Kids and parents from all four schools come in daily and over our last three years here we as a staff get to know them well because we love being a key part of the community here in Spring Creek – so our local schools have a piece recognising themselves here too.
“I left Charlotte to get to work on Thursday last week and kept being amazed by the progress she made, and how detailed the mural quickly became – she’s done an awesome job with the whole thing.”
See more of Charlotte’s work at www. charlottebuskinart.co.nz or on Instagram @charlottebuskinartist
Insert: Mural artist Charlotte Buskin in front of her new mural.
Main Photo: The full completed mural. Photos: William Woodworth.
Students bring bags of business-savvy
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Turning old pool toys into bags has won a team of enterprising friends a place in a national competition.
Marlborough Girls’ College students
Bess Cuddon-Corlet, Laura Elliot-Whale and Sydney White of Refloat Bags were announced as the Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) Regional Winners, and Environment Award winners, last Monday.
Despite 2024 being a “rocky road”, the trio qualified as Marlborough’s first ever YES national finalists.
“At first we thought we didn’t believe we won and stayed sitting, thinking we got announced as third place - so it took a
couple seconds to sink in,” Laura says.
“Just competing in the regional finals was a dream come true and we are incredibly grateful for everyone’s support. especially our business mentor, Rosa Tovey,” Sydney agreed.
“If you told us three months ago we’d win, we’d have laughed - however we are extremely proud of the drive we have given for our business to succeed,” Bess says.
Judges Brian Dawson, Tracy Atkin, Celia Anderson and Pam Wood gave thorough feedback to each team.
“Your mission statement clearly defined the problem, using metrics of tonnes to landfill, and identified and quantified a real problem,” Tracy said about Refloat
Keeping up with Kapa Haka
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
Kapa haka groups from across Marlborough brought their best to Marlborough Girls’ College stage over Thursday and Friday.
Forty-six school groups performing throughout two days, and on Thursday evening saw 21 college and adult groups perform. The Taiopenga festival of Kapa Haka has seen major developments since starting thirty years ago.
Rita Powick says that seeing not only kapa haka, but Māori learning in general, culminate with Taiopenga gives her a sense of purpose.
“I have a dream job as a Resource Teacher of Māori helping throughout the region.
“In jumping between schools, I see the awesome work happening in our schools weekly so Taiopenga brings
them all together, celebrating Te Reo Māori, and celebrating our tamariki promoting it.
“Kura are getting more and more involved each year –we’re seeing the progression from school uniforms to dedicated kakahu.
“The 15 minutes on stage displaying Te Reo Maori skills and learnings gives me hope the language is alive and well.”
While Taiopenga has had many homes over it’s 33 years, Rita says support has been stronger from across schools and the wider community.
“From the Centennial Hall to the Clubs of Marlborough, and now at MGC who not only let us take over but whose students love supporting Taiopenga on and off the stage.”
“Many adult groups were made of school staff, so it’s really credit to them for not just teaching the kids but taking Māori and kapa haka onboard themselves.”
“Your business is highly innovative adding a new ethical use with offcutsyou had profit goals and a north star to measure success by.”
Kawaii Loops, native animal crochet sets won the Innovation Award while cookbook Taste of the Regions won the Connect & Collaborate Award.
Nayland College’s Only Popcorn won Best Annual Review in the Region while fellow Nayland team Kakapo Crafts won the Creativity Award.
Marlborough Girls’ College Business Studies teacher Surrey Collett was nominated for the Sir James Fletcher Award for Most Inspiring Teacher. The YES National Finals are in Wellington on 5 December.
Springlands School Kowhai/Totara 2 group take to the stage on Friday.
“This year had a real emphasis on getting adults on the stage as there’s many who love kapa haka but don’t have the same confidence that tamariki has for performing, so having an entire evening for them is really promising for the future of kapa haka here in Wairau.”
Photo: William Woodworth
Laura Elliot-Whale, Sydney White and Bess Cuddon-Corlet from Young Enterprise Scheme regional winning business, Refloat Bags. Photo: William Woodworth.
Life, and all that Jazz
Musical group The Blenheim Trio are preparing to perform back home at the ASB Theatre’s Anderson Room. Singer and songwriter Warren Love talks to Paula Hulburt about his journey to performing
The car came to a gradual stop and the engine silenced as, overhead; the cars charged on over the Wingate Bridge. At 15-years-old, Warren Love tried not to fidget as he waited for his dad to speak.
Now 73, years old, the talented singer and songwriter recalls the life defining moment clearly.
“He stopped the car and said he was going to see a man about a job. There was an apprenticeship going at the printers and he wanted me to take it.
“A tradesman like my two elder brothers, dad must have felt safe under the bridge as he had worked as site foreman on it when it was first built.”
Decades later and Warren smiles as he explains how he made a stand, albeit a small one.
“I said I don’t want to make books dad; I want to read them. He looked at me and sighed, then turned the car around.”
Today, singer, songwriter Warren Love, who was nominated for the Best Country Music Album at the New Zealand Music Awards in 2007, is no stranger to the limelight.
But his journey as an artist has been a battle at times, as life pulled him in other directions, he explains.
“We didn’t have books at home, so it was only when I went to school that I learnt about words.”
Lower Hutt and a solo parent at the time to his two daughters, he was teaching full time but needed to boost his income.
“I wanted an alternative to the education thing, so I started busking. I’d go out on my bike with my guitar on my back and come home with sausages for tea.”
It was as a busker that Warren came off the streets to shoot to the forefront of Americana style songwriters with his Warren Love Band album.
Featuring many well knowns and produced by the late Clinton Brown (Waratahs, Rockinghorse, Wayne Mason, Sharon O’Neill).
Now on Spotify, his songs are most popular with males aged 45 to 60 years plus.
“They cast light on the lives, the loves, the disappointments and hopes of older Kiwi men,” Warren says.
“It’s where their journey in life can be acknowledged and celebrated.”
Warren was described by Radio New Zealand and a Listener music critic as a storyteller whose songwriting and voice “stand up against the best” in the alt folk country genre.”
I’d go out on my bike with my guitar on my back and come home with sausages for tea.”
It was then that his love of words began, a passion which he still has today.
“Words have always been my thing. As soon as I learnt about words, I knew that’s what I wanted to do.”
While his father played guitar, Warren and his siblings paid it little attention growing up.
“I think it had the same strings on it for 30 years,” Warren chuckles. Self-taught, Warren turned to music when he was 45 years old but, somehow, it had always been part of him, he explains.
“Writing to me was always words and a melody. I would hear them together. I’d wait a week or two and if I liked it, and it was still in my head, I’d develop it.
“I’m good with words, I’m a poet so if I have a reasonable melody, I can make it work.”
With two mortgages on a house in
Now he is set to return to the stage after a chance meeting at a Blenheim party, a meeting of musical minds and talent which sparked the idea for a band.
The Blenheim Trio, features Warren alongside veteran jazz double bass player Pat Bleakley and newcomer Louise Perzigian on banjo have found the “perfect mix”
The trio met at a birthday party in Blenheim, hosted by Pat’s brother and enjoyed an impromptu jam session.
Appearing locally at the Anderson Theatre is particularly special, Warren says.
The concert brings Warren’s highly acclaimed Love Songs show home.
“The Anderson is an intimate venue with state-of-the-art lighting and sound system, and it can be “dressed” beautifully,” Warren says.
The Blenheim Trio are the first local music group to take advantage of a newly discounted hire fee to add variety to the local music scene.
Warren is delighted to be sharing his work in the town he calls home.
“This is about sharing. I’ve never been driven to be a huge commercial suc-
cess but by wanting to leave a legacy of songs.”
The Blenheim Trio will be performing at the ASB Theatre on Saturday 9 November at 7.30pm.
To buy tickets visit https://www.eventfinda. co.nz/2024/the-blenheim-trio-love-songs/ blenheim/tickets.
We have a pair of tickets to giveaway to lucky readers. To go into the draw to win, please email paula@topsouthmedia.co.nz with your name and contact phone number by Tuesday 5 November at 5pm.
Warren Love is a relative latecomer to music but uses his talent with words and composing to great acclaim. Photo: Jessica Jones Photography.
LEFT: Warren Love age 38 when he first took up song writing and singing. RIGHT: Warren receives a 2014 Khalifa Education Award in Abu Dhabi from Prime Minister Sheikh Mansour. Photos: Supplied.
PAULA HULBURT
Students hit full Evolocity
SARAH HOLLYMAN
vehicle around.
Students from across the Top of the South were finally able to pit their electric creations against other teams at the Nelson Marlborough Evolocity last week.
The programme, which has been running for a decade, challenges students to create an electric vehicle from scratch.
The Year 11 team were plagued with problems from the get-go having trouble with the motor during the build process.
The furthest they managed to get during practice runs was 10 metres, but the girls refused to give up when the problems continued after their arrival in Nelson.
Dealing with a flat tyre and broken fuse meant
Matilda
Evolocity national coordinator Shannon Wildman says that could be a kart or a bike, with two categories for motor size – 350watt or two kilowatts - usually for teams who have competed before.
With 14 teams registered to attend the event in Nelson on Thursday, including seven from Marlborough the event is growing in popularity across the region.
“We’ve made ours mostly from recycled material from JBL Environmental at the dump,” says team member Matilda Phelps of their kart-style vehicle.
Matilda joined the team because she has an interest in physics.
“I thought this might be fun to do the electrical stuff as well, so I got to do a bit of that, and then the engineering is really cool too.” Menzshed Blenheim were instrumental in assisting the team, helping with the construction of the vehicle, Matilda says. They also donated the front of a bike to base the
they missed the first competitive race, but showed great determination in persevering to finally see their vehicle take-off down the race track with Abi Adams at the wheel.
The success was short-lived though, being the only successful run the team managed to muster, ending with a fun push down the track.
However, on the one run they got, Abi handled the kart like a dream.
Two judges also made the journey from Blenheim, Paula and Marshall from MeloYelo eBikes.
“We came to the event last year and there were only six or seven teams, it was a hoot of an event,” Gary says.
Gary says there were three standout teams this year but one, from Nelson Intermediate, claimed top prize by one little point.
For information or to register for next
Marlborough Girls’ College team from left Matilda Phelps, Alice Mundy, Abi Maskill, Alice McClane with Abi Adams in the driver’s seat at Thursday’s Evolocity Challenge. Photo: Sara Hollyman.
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Community Comments
SCOOPS OF LOCAL LOVE
Ash you are an absolute legend!!!!
Jill N Kent Winstanley
Awesome Ash, will be visiting!!
Kate Clark
The ice cream here is amazing.
Jacqui Wilson
Nice one Ash !
Anna Thomas
Go Ashley. Welcome back and hope Aus was heaps of fun. Have seen this on others socials, see you soon !
Brent Bee
BLUE COD SEASON COULD BE SHORTENED
I live in the sounds and can’t believe that this quota is still going on, the same with snapper ,this daily limit is unsustainable with the amount of boats that are taking fish, 14 blue cod per week per person ,I love fish but not eating that much.
Roger Tucker
This makes so much sense, opening just prior to the Xmas rush is crazy
Morgan Potts
Raise the bloody size limits on most fish like fs 33 cm cod is average and 25cm snapper is bs. Think about it no wonder there’s f-all left
Maxwell Brydon
Shut it completely for some years. Everyone bought a boat post covid, the pressure won’t come off. You can’t get a boat trailer park over the busy season in Picton or Havelock. Nothing will change. I’m too embarrassed to even fish over that period.
Kevin Cresswell
I agree, it should be closed for that period, just gota go out in the sounds at Xmas and boats every where on points fishing , huge pressure and All Pulling in small fish and release prob killing them at the same time. We hate going out seeing it. The amount of people on the boats, how many small cod going to survive that... totally support this..
Vicki Baker
There is massive pressure on the fishery over Xmas / New Year. Let’s say conservatively there are 50 boats out on a day with 4 people fishing. Each take 2 cod. That is 400 hundred cod in one day. Multiple that over 10 days of the holidays and you have 4000 cod. Not to mention the undersized fish killed in the process.
Kelvan Smith
TOP COUNTRY HOSPITALITY WITH A TWIST
Last night was my first time and definitely wont be my last. Absolutely awesome place and incredible food. Nicci Fitzgerald
Well done, much deserved. Super cool place for a drink or a yummy bite.
Kat MacDonald
Tu meke Damian and team. It’s been around d a long time and I love not only the kai but the unchanged Grovetown Pub feel.
Roxana Jones
Love this place! No pokies no TAB no screens , perfect! Polly Murray
Cleanup Labour underway after long weekend rain
WILLIAM WOODWORTH
It’s supposed to be the start of summer, but Labour weekend saw many areas of Marlborough receive over 200mm of rain. From the start of Saturday to the end of Sunday, Metservice confirmed Tunakino received 182.3mm of rain while Rai saw 179.2mm.
While Saturday saw the heaviest rain, the 72 hours from
Sunday morning until Tuesday morning, still saw Rai’s rain station registered 134mm and Tunakino registered 128mm –while some remote areas were predicted to see over 150mm. Over the same 72 hours, Rai Falls saw 110mm and Mt Morris station saw 102mm, while 85mm of rain was recorded in both Top Valley and Onamalutu and Blenheim Airport saw 56.4mm.
Surface flooding across the region due to the weather, especially in Rai Valley and Canvastown - while Marlborough’s rivers swelled.
Marlborough District Council advised roads are still closed at Awatere Valley Road (3.8km up the valley from Limestone), Jones Road, Grovetown (approximately 1km before the Morgans Road intersection) and Seddon Transfer Station
access road.
Marlborough District Council says caution is still advised on Port Underwood Road, approximately 1km from Whatamango Bay when travelling from Picton, Archers Road at Tennyson Inlet near Tuna Bay, Wakamarina Road, Taylors Pass Road ford, Tapps Road, Canvastown, Top Valley Road, Northbank Road, and Onamalutu Road.
Surface flooding on paddocks on the outskirts of Canvastown on Sunday afternoon.
Photos: William Woodworth
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• Super Saloon on display from Martins Motors
• We think there might be a noisy radio station next door, shutup Brian!
PROUDLY LOCALLY OWNED | NEWS YOU CAN TRUST
MARTIN MOTORS
Cuddon
Out & About
Marlborough Boys’ College 125th dinner celebration
1. Chris McMurtrie, Josh Harrison and Ian
2. Ross Broadbridge, Kay Waters and Ron Vanstone.
3. John Kendal and Michelle Priestley.
4. Whaea Althea Vercoe and Neville K.W. Tahuaroa
5. Ben Alexander (Headboy 2019) and Kathrin Buff.
6. Laurin and Bridget Gane.
7. Wayne Hegarty (MBC Principal 2010-2020), Helen Joesph and Joan Hegarty.
8. David Clark and Rosemary Clark.
Martella.
Photos: Anna Simpson
SPORT
Seaside school makes its sporting mark
Whoever came up with the phrase “punching above their weight” might well have had the Waikawa Bay School in mind.
The Picton-based primary school, with a roll of 166 pupils, has excelled across a variety of sports over the past two years - not only in Marlborough but also across the wider Tasman area.
Last year their rippa rugby team finished runner-up at the Marlborough Year 5&6 tournament then upped the ante by taking out the Tasman primary school year 5&6 tournament title, raising eyebrows over the hill in Nelson.
This year the 10 and 11-year-olds showed their success was no fluke, again finishing second in the Marlborough event before
becoming back-to-back Tasman champs. Not content with rippa rugby success, the Waikawa Bay crew took on the province’s best in the more physical rugby tackle sevens, winning every game at the festival event in 2023 then taking out the Marlborough title earlier this year. They finished runners-up in the Tasman Year 5&6 tournament.
Recently they decided to enter the Marlborough rugby league primary school tournament and showed what a multi-talented bunch they are by claiming that title as well.
Although there has been a passing parade of eager and talented pupils involved in the various teams, there have been a few players involved in each sport over the two years. Leading the way, across all three
codes, are Hunter Giles, Lockie Burgess and Tama Mataele.
Glenn Smith, a Waikawa teacher involved in managing the school’s sporting programme, is delighted with the school’s wide-ranging efforts.
“We definitely have a group of talented sporting kids but a lot of credit must go to the Waitohi Rugby Club. They are a very good community-driven club with good volunteers around the group of kids … they have brought them up from around the under-six stage. They have a very good skill base … and the core group have been together playing rugby since they were three years old.
“[Their success] has been very good for the school overall. We are getting a lot of boys and girls giving rugby a go for the first
time. We have 45 kids playing touch this year, plus four teams in the rippa rugby as well, so there is a lot of talent there … so much so that we had to have trials to pick our travelling teams.
“We put our hands up for everything, whether it is football, rugby, touch, basketball. We try to get involved as much as we can because we don’t always get the same opportunities we would get if we were in Blenheim.
“It is cool to see that whatever they have put their hands up for they have been very competitive at,” he added, something of an under-statement given what the little seaside school has achieved.
Principal Peter Knowles said, “it has been an exceptional run of sporting success for such a small school”.
A selection of Waikawa Bay school pupils who have featured
two years. Photo Peter Jones.
Ryan stands out in Spain
Premier tennis net widens
dear life on the run as I had cooked my legs pretty good in the ride.
It is a new season and with it a new-look Marlborough Winebrokers NZ senior premier tennis competition.
Last season four teams, comprising three men and a woman, fought for the premier crown, this year there are six teams, made up of four men and two women.
With 36 players involved, the talent net has been spread wider and, judging by results so far, a close competition will unfold. It also offers the opportunity for some multiple family participation.
Sarah Dillon and her daughter Isobel O’Brien are involved, Clyde Sowman and his children Ella, Max and Pippa Sowman play in three different teams while Mike Weaver and his son Flynn Weaver are in the same team and play doubles together.
Alex Herd is playing fulltime, while his father Darin Herd fills in, as are Mieko and Ryo Kimura.
are the teenagers playing their first premier interclub tennis. There are also several adults playing their first premier season as well.
The most successful players so far are the unbeaten trio of Hamish Morrow, Dan Clarke and Jaco van Hensbergen, who have registered three singles and three doubles wins.
Eveline Apthorp van der Linden has won five from six, as has Glen Cameron and Jack King.
On week one, Marlborough Forrest Wines Whero, who narrowly lead the standings, beat Renwick 5-4, Rapaura Blanc beat Rapaura Noir 6-3 and Marlborough Forrest Wines Ma downed Rapaura Rose 5-4.
A week later, Whero overcame Ma 7-2, Blanc beat Renwick 7-2 and Noir downed Rose 6-3. On Wednesday, the matches could hardly have been closer, all finishing 5-4 after the three doubles and six singles.
Marlborough’s Ryan Marfell showed he can keep pace with some of the world’s top triathletes, producing a couple of tremendous results at the World Triathlon Age Group Championships in Torremolinos, Spain.
The 19-year-old also underlined his fitness levels by competing in two events with only one recovery day in between.
On Thursday was the World Triathlon U19 sprint distance race where Ryan placed fifth out of 70 competitors. This race comprises a 750m swim, 20km bike ride and a 5km run.
Then, on Saturday, he finished second in the World Triathlon U19 Standard Distance Championship. This race is double the length of the earlier event, covering a 1.5km swim, 40km bike ride and 10km run to finish.
Speaking from Torremolinos, where he is now enjoying some holiday time with his family, Ryan described his results as “really good”.
“I was pretty happy with how both races went. I improved on last year and there were no major problems, apart from coming out of the water a bit far back and having to work really hard on my own to get up to the front bunch.
“On Thursday I came out of the water 27th, rode my way up to third and then tried to hold on for
“Friday was a day off, but Saturday I was back at it again doing the standard distance. I came out of the water seventh, rode up to second and then hunted [the winner – Australian Bailey Tuddenham] down a little bit on the run. He was about three minutes ahead coming into the run but I shut his lead down to about a minute at the finish.
“All things considered, with that being my second race, I was pleased with the result.”
Most of the competitors just did one race or the other but Ryan had always planned to do both and, not surprisingly, admitted to being “tired and sore” after the second race.
“I felt pretty rough, but it was an amazing event. The heat was not really a major factor … the course was really good, quite windy conditions and choppy water which made it tough, but that’s racing.”
The Spanish trip completes a top season for Ryan, representing his country abroad.
Earlier in the year he competed at the 2024 Multisport World Championships, staged in Townsville, Australia, where he finishing second in the under-19 world duathlon sprint distance championships.
Now he heads back home, his focus shifting to preparation for the forthcoming Coast to Coast event, in February, 2025.
After three weeks of competition a feature is the ability of the young and new players to seamlessly step up.
Emily Preece, Josephine Walkenhorst, Pippa Sowman, Amalie Bann, Flynn Weaver, Alex Herd, Ryo Kimura and Caroline Kruger
Wins went to Whero over Noir, Ma over Renwick and Rose over Blanc.
All six teams are separated on the points table by just 17 points, underlining the closeness of the competition.
Points after three rounds: Whero 43, Blanc 42, Ma 33, Noir 32, Rose 27, Renwick 26.
Congratualtions to our team members son Ryan Marfell on his outstanding achievement at the World Champs! We’re super proud of you Ryan WELL DONE!
Ryan Marfell crosses the finish line in Spain. Photo: Tryathlion.
Mieko Kimura plays a forehand return. Photo Peter Jones
PETER JONES
PETER JONES
Gloves are on as softball season begins
Marlborough senior softball is underway for the 2024-25 season.
Both men’s and women’s teams were in action at Lansdowne Park on Saturday, October 19.
Marlborough are again fielding just one senior men’s side, Saints Rams, and they played a double-header against Nelson team Stoke Eagles. The local lads shook off some early season rust in their first match, losing 7-2, but bounced back in the next, winning 4-1.
In their first encounter Saints managed to get runners on base frequently but struggled to capitalize. Braden Healy hit Koki Hoshi in via a fielder’s choice to put Saints on the board, Hoshi proving quick around the bases. Dane Gill and Hoshi also providing hits from the left side of the plate, offering the side more options when batting this season.
In the second clash Saints got off to a strong start, taking an early 1-0 lead then, with loaded bases, walks to Will Macdonald and Sam Kenny stretched the lead to 3-0 towards the back end
of the game. Eagles bounced one run back but back-to-back hits by Drew Roberts and Tyler Bird in the sixth gave Saints a winning buffer. Will Macdonald turned in a strong performance on the mound while Callum Hayton and Gill shone in the field.
Saints were happy with their fielding effort overall, which included a couple of double plays by Healy and Roberts in the middle infield. However, the play of the day went to Hoshi who produced a spectacular diving play in left field in game two.
The experienced Bird turned in a slick catching effort behind the plate for both games.
Rams are building into a big season, which includes a trip to the Seddon Shield tournament in Nelson on November 24, followed by the Jeffries Cup in Christchurch on December 7-8. Saints Rams: Braden Healy, Tyler Bird, Drew Roberts, Rawiri Bird, Will Macdonald, Sam Kenny, Blake Wisdom, Jason Bird, Dane Gill, Callum Hayton, Koki Hoshi, Campbell Gill, Willem Hayton.
Four senior women’s side are also suiting up this season – Central, Waitohi, Wairau and Saints.
On Saturday they played their first games, Central defeating Waitohi 9-0 and Wairau beating Saints 16-0.
Football fun in the sun – and the rain
A day of rain failed to dampen the spirit of the players who put their hands up to take part in the annual Matt Neal Memorial Football Tournament.
Twelve 12 teams gathered at A&P Park on Saturday and Sunday to remember Marlborough footballer Matt Neal, a prominent figure on the local scene. The event, which was set up in 2016, provided an opportunity for players, both competitive and social, to come together in football and friendship. Saturday saw the teams battling heavy rain throughout most of the day, the inclement conditions unable to dampen the players’ spirit.
Four teams contested the competitive grade, Internationale repeating their win of 2023 by downing Blenheim Dons 2-1 in the final on Sunday afternoon, thankfully in better weather.
teams
Eight sides tried their luck in the social grade, Young Boys taking the title from Redwoodtown Greyhounds in a tight contest. Two teams, Yellow Jackets and Space Cadets, from Christchurch and Nelson respectively, provided an outof-town presence.
Final placings for both divisions.
and
Competitive: 4 Lawnmowers; 3 Space Cadets; 2 Blenheim Dons; 1Internationale.
Social: 8 Banana Bandits; 7 All Mixed Up; 6 Yellow Jackets; 5 The Sharks; 4 OCDC; 3 Anthonys Angels; 2 Redwoodtown Greyhounds; 1 Young Boys.
Saints Rams pitcher Will Macdonald faces another Stoke batter.
Photos: Supplied.
PETER JONES
PETER JONES
The Wairau and Saints women’s sides gather together on opening day.
Rival social
Anthony’s Angels
OCDC get together after a fun-filled penalty shoot-out on Sunday. Photo Peter Jones
WALDRON, Merle:
Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on Sunday October 27, 2024. Aged 89 years. Loved wife of the late Steve, loved mother and mother-in-law of Karen and Nick, Kevin and Karen, Sue and John, Maggie and Steve. Loved grandmother and great grandmother.
A dear friend of Graham. Messages may be sent to the Waldron Family, c/- PO Box 110, Blenheim 7240. A funeral service for Merle will be held at Sowman’s Mayfield Chapel, cnr Hutcheson and Parker Streets, Blenheim at 2.00pm, on Thursday, October 31. The service will be livestreamed and details may be accessed via our website www.sowmans. co.nz/upcoming-funerals
Respectfully cared for by
Geoffrey T Sowman FDANZ Phone (03) 578 4719 www.sowmans.co.nz
STEVENSON, Noelene Nellie:
On Sunday October 20, 2024 at Redwood Lifestyle Care & Village, Blenheim. Aged 91 years.
here. Ph 928 4121
Dearly loved and devoted wife of the late Alex for 60 years. Much loved Mum and respected mother-in-law of Lynette and Stuart Lean and Brian and Suzie. Loved grandma of Brendon and Libby, Nathan and Lisa, Angela and Duncan, and Catherine, and dearly loved great grandma of Jamie, William and Emma, Michael, and Maia and Sawyer.
Advertise your wanted notice here. Ph 928 4121
A great life – well lived.
Messages to the Stevenson Family may be sent to 15 Chestnut Place, Rangiora, North Canterbury 7400.
Advertise your situations vacant here. Ph 928 4121
In lieu of flowers, a donation to Hospice Marlborough would be appreciated and may be made online to a/c 03-13690365207-00 ref. STEVENSON.
A graveside service for Noelene has held at the Green Park Cemetery, Brighton Road, Waldronville, Dunedin.
Respectfully cared for by Geoffrey T Sowman FDANZ
Advertise your situations vacant here. Ph 928 4121
Phone (03) 578 4719 www.sowmans.co.nz
Harris, Gregory John (Greg): 30/12/1975 – 22/10/2024
Late of Mount Adde. It is with great sadness that we announce Greg has passed away at Nelson Hospital after a long journey. He was the most loving, compassionate and hard-working son of Ron and Helen. Much loved brother and brother-in-law to Tracey and Vaughan Currie, Angela and Regan Senior (Deceased), and Pip and Duncan McLane. Greg was the proud uncle of Ella, Zoe and Amber Senior, Alice and George McLane, and Angus and Colby Currie. A loved nephew and cousin to the Harris and Collins families. A mate to many.
BROADBENT, Kathleen Gwendoline (Gwen):
On 21st October 2024, Gwen passed peacefully at home with family, aged 97 years. Loved wife of the late Jim Broadbent, cherished mother to Dennis, Vivienne and the late Paul, Geoffrey, Christine & Lloyd, Kelvyn & Christine, Yvonne & Derrick, Maureen, Lester & Joanna, Jill & Brian. Loving Nana to her 23 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren. Special thanks to Emily Marfell, Hospice and Nurse Maud staff. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Hospice would be gratefully received. Messages can be made out to Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. As per Gwen’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a time yet to be determined.
Locally Family Owned - Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004 www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
HURREN: Robyn (née Toyer) 02.10.1943 - 20.10.2024
Our bright and colourful mum joined our dad in the presence of Jesus. Dearly loved wife of the late James (Jim); loved mum and mum-in-law of Linda and Alex, Geoff and Erin. Wonderful Grandma to Toby, Samara, Johanna, Beth, Jeremy and Laura, and Maci’s adored great grandma. Messages to www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz or email tempoconcert@hotmail.com
A private interment has taken place.
Locally Family Owned - Cloudy Bay Funeral Services FDANZ Phone (03) 578 2004 www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
To the NMDHB team, especially the Dementia team and Tasman House team, for their huge love and support to Greg and us all, THANK YOU.
A service for Greg will be held at 11am on Friday, November 1st 2024 at the Marlborough Convention Centre followed by a private interment. The service can be viewed online at https:// sowmans.co.nz/upcoming-funerals/
In lieu of flowers please honour Greg with a donation to the Marlborough Rural Support Trust. This can be made in person at the service or online at account number 03-0751-026619200 ref: HARRIS.
Messages to the family can be sent to 6 Kim Crescent, Witherlea, Blenheim 7201
Respectfully cared for by
Geoffrey T Sowman FDANZ Phone (03) 578 4719 www.sowmans.co.nz
WALLACE: John Bruce (Bruce) 1936 - 2024
On 24 October 2024 at the Springlands Lifestyle Village. Loving husband of the late Audrey Wallace and Ann Wallace. Loving brother to the late Reg Wallace and Joan Bright. Loved by his nieces and nephews and extended families. Messages to www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz In lieu of flowers a donation to the Cancer Society of Marlborough would be appreciated and may be made at the service or online to (Acc. 06 0601 004826 00 ref: Wallace) A Funeral Service for Bruce will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street on Thursday 31 October at 11.00am followed by interment at the Picton Cemetery. The service will be livestreamed and may 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
MARLBOROUGH’S COMMUNITY NOTICES
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, 13.30pm, 12 Battys Rd. Ph: Gail 0272214121. $4.
STEADY AS YOU GO Gentle Exercise/ Balance Class for Seniors. Tues, 11.30-12.30pm, St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St. Ph: 0273852333 or e: donna@stchristophers. co.nz. $3.
PERSISTENT PAIN SUPPORT GROUP, Tues, 5-6pm. Dropin group for people with persistent pain & those supporting them. For info Ph: Cindy 0273809120
TENNIS AT MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB, Tues, 8.3012pm, Marlborough Tennis Club, Pollard Park, Parker St. Social Doubles Tennis. Morning Tea at 10am. Non-Members $5. All Welcome. Ph: 0275786436.
JUMP N JIVE FOR UNDER 5’S Come along to our preschool rhythm and music group. 9.30am, The Foundry on John St. Jump n Jive runs during school terms. Morning tea included. Check out tautokotrust.org for more info. Gold coin donation.
RENWICK ARMS COUNTRY CLUB CARD SECTION, Tues, 1pm, Redwood Tavern, Cleghorn Street, Blenheim. Meet and play EUCHRE and CRIBBAGE. Beginners are welcome to learn and play. $5 per afternoon. Ph: Chris 0272077631.
SUNBELT TOASTMASTERS Learn public speaking. Improve your confidence. 6.20pm fortnightly. St Mary’s Community Centre. P: 0276001788 or e: sunbeltblenheim@ gmail.com.
MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB, 8.30-12pm, social, Morning Tea 10am, Parker St. Non-members $5. Ph: 0275786436.
BLENHEIM CHORAL 7pm. Nativity Church Hall. www. blenheimchoral.org.
BLENHEIM AIR TRAINING CORP, 6.30-9pm, RNZAF Base Woodbourne. Recruiting new cadets aged 13 & 15 years. e: 27sqn@cadetforces.org.nz.
PICTON NEWCOMERS NETWORK 1st Tues of month, ‘COFFEE & CHAT’ 10-11am, Seabreeze Café, London Quay. New to town? Need help to settle in? Interested in local activities? We can help! Ph: Cathy 0210451799 e: picton@ newcomers.co.nz
RED HAT SOCIETY for women to enjoy fun & friendship. We meet 1st & 3rd Tues of the month. Ph: Tina 0211045945.
MARLBOROUGH HERB SOCIET Y Meet 4th Tues of month, 7pm. Various locations. To promote use, educate & identification of herbs. e: mhsgarlicpress@gmail.com.
STEADY AS YOU GO CLASSES, 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. ROCK ‘N’ ROLL, Wed, 7.30pm. Blenheim Bowling Club, 65 Weld St. Ph: Erin 0272341709.
PICTON - SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING, Wed, 7.30pm, Picton Little Theatre. No partner needed. Beginner’s welcome. Ph: Lynda 0212600860.
CHEESE & CHEERS is part of the Silent Book Club Aotearoa. 1st Wed of month, 5.30pm, Vines Village, 193 Rapaura Rd. Ph: 035727170 for info.
BLENHEIM PROBUS CLUB Retired/semi-retired? Meet 1st Wed of month, 10am. Wesley Centre. Ph: Ann 5787046 | Jan 0226353919.
LIONS’ CLUB OF BLENHEIM, Tea Meetings, 1st & 3rd Wed (Feb-Nov). Serving the community for over sixty years. Would you like to know more about the Lion’s club or are interested in becoming a Lion? Ph: Delphine Lee 0299425004 | Helen Williams 0211458572.
PICTON LIONS, meet 1st Wed on month. Join a worthwhile volunteer group, both female & male members wanted, good fellowship, all money raised goes back to Picton community. Ph: Norman 0274336242.
WAITOHI SOCIAL CLUB, 3rd Wed of month, 10am, Picton Library. Meet for fun & friendship. After meeting we go for lunch if you wish to join us. Gold coin donation for morning tea.
BLENHEIM SENIOR CITIZENS 2nd & 4th Wed of month, 2pm, 172 High St. Entertainment and afternoon tea provided. Ph: Shirly 0210388616.
STEADY AS YOU GO CLASSES,Wed, 1.30-2.30pm, Marlborough Community Centre, 25 Alfred St, Blenheim. $2 . For info: Ph: 5793457.
THURSDAY
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.
