Marlborough Weekly 27 September 2022

Blenheim South Rotary members Henny Vervaart and Kevin Mosely reckon there’s a treasure for everyone at this week end’s Mammoth Garage Sale. Photo: Matt Brown.

CHATS TO LOCALS AND ASKS...

Kinross St, Blenheim

Bella Skipper & Sela Tongo

I’m not prepared. I moved away from Christchurch - I lived through the big one, I’d survive this. I am going to go shopping and get supplies, though.

Marshall Leg

I’m prepared. We have a sur vival kit, my mum does it. I’ve never looked in it, but mum checks it and makes sure it’s up to date.

Water is the one I haven’t got up to date. But my medical kit is in my garage and I can grab it and go. I also have plenty of canned food. We’ve done the water for years, but you do get a bit slack.

We have enough for two weeks for two people. Who knows what’s going to happen; with the war, the volcano. I have a first aid kit and a backpack that I can just grab and go. It doesn’t cost much and it’s bet ter to be prepared.

All the fun of the travelling fair

Sunshine and smiles greeted vis itors to The Extravaganza Fair over the weekend as the travel ling team rolled into Blenheim. The annual fair arrived at Marl

borough’s A & P showgrounds for the long weekend, opening to a steady stream of people keen to make the most of the entertain ment. From juggling displays,

live music, sweet treats, tarot and tattoos there was plenty to keep people of all ages enter tained. Juggler Jeremy Penguin showed off his talents, juggling

balls, skittles and ice picks while wearing his unique penguin hat. Organisers describe the event as a return to grassroots with a “spark of fun”.

Left: Sienna Watson and Emily Hulburt tuck into candy floss at the fair. Right: Entertainer Jeremy Penguin kept people amused with his display of juggling. Photos: Paula Hulburt.

If Marlborough was hit by a natural disaster, are you prepared?

Heather Brown

Joao Martins

Medical service needs support to save lives

PAGE 1

“NBS is a major sponsor of the Trust because their work aligns so well to our own goal of making a meaning ful difference in our communities.”

“This is the third year NBS has led an appeal and we are always grate ful for the way people support the cause.

“When you support the appeal, you are directly helping to keep this hel icopter crew in the air, doing an ab solutely incredible job year-round that no-one else can do.”

The appeal got underway at the Tas man Mako rugby match at Trafalgar Park in Nelson on Saturday.

Match-goers were treated to the sight of the helicopter touching down on the field while two children

Blenheim Builders win big

PAULA HULBURT

Marlborough builders have won a raft of top awards at a prestigious national competition.

Teams from George Guthrie Construc tion, Townley Construction and Smith And Sons have all been honoured at the Registered Master Builders Award 2022. George Guthrie Construction had plen ty to smile about after taking out the Cook Strait Supreme House of the Year over $1 million category, the Resene New Home $2 million - $4 million, the Pink Batts Craftsmanship Award, and the Gold Award sections.

The Registered Master Builders House of the Year competition which was held on Saturday in Auckland recognises the very best homes, builders, and crafts men across New Zealand.

This year the regional competition had over 295 entries across eight regions. Revealing George Guthrie Construc tion as the winners, judges were quick to praise the “sophisticated” build.

“This sophisticated home situated on an exposed hill overlooking the Brancott Valley to the west, and the Cook Strait and Cloudy Bay to the east, celebrates retreat and expansion.

“Sophisticated detailing and construc tion of both the exterior envelope and the interior elements showcase the skills of the designer and craftsmen involved in this stunning home.”

Other Marlborough winners included Townley Construction who won the APL Sustainable and Environmental Excellence Award, and a Gold Award, for a home in Wairau Valley.

Judges say maximising the use of the sun helped the team win.

“Sited to maximise the use of the sun and heated only with the use of pas

Smith And Sons Blenheim won the Ren ovations category and were revealed as winner of Builder’s Own Home as well as taking a Gold Award, for a home in Omaka.

The use of the sun also helped Smith And Sons make a good impression with judges prasisng the team’s attention to detail.

“The house has been orientated to capture sunlight with sun-filled bed rooms and living rooms - all opening to outdoor living spaces, and extensive vegetable gardens, as well as a flexible

delivered the game ball to players. The crew respond to an average of 500 callouts throughout the Nelson, Tasman, Marlborough and Buller regions each year with the average price of one call-out costing $3,500. In August alone, the helicopter made 30 missions.

The community’s support is much appreciated says Paula.

“We are incredibly grateful for the community’s support, and in par ticular for the support from all of our sponsors, including NBS’ ongo ing financial assistance.”

Donations can be made at any NBS Branch or online at nbshelicopter appeal.nz or people can make a gen eral donation or donate the cost of essential gear such as a paramedic’s helmet or crew member’s harness.

Mammoth sale

Bargain hunters delight – the largest garage sale the region has ever seen is coming this weekend.

Organised by Rotary, the Mammoth Garage Sale and Book Fair is repeating last year’s success in a bid to raise funds for a bevy of community groups.

Blenheim South Rotary member Kevin Mosely says they have more items for sale than last time, when the community raised around $40,000 for the community.

“We have a room full of furniture – and still a week of stuff to come,” he says. “Last year we were shocked, we thought we would make $10,000. We ended up making around $40,000.”

Kevin says books were the big sellers.

“There’s a treasure for everybody in here.

“There’s more stuff than you can poke a stick at.”

The Mammoth Garage Sale and Book Fair begins on Friday and goes through to Sunday.

A Nelson Marlborough helicopter pilot escorts ball-bearers Brooklyn Bill and Ella Healey onto the pitch at Friday afternoon’s Mako game in Nelson. Photo: Shuttersport.

The team at George Guthrie Construction took to the stage to receive the award for the Cook Strait Supreme House of the Year Award. Photo: Supplied.

Marlborough’s best young winemaker crowned

MATT BROWN

The region’s best young win emaker was decided yester day after a record-number of contestants competed in a gruelling set of challeng es at the Marlborough Re search centre.

The aspiring Young Win emakers’ knowledge was tested in a cellar challenge, laboratory tests, blending, fault finding, blind tasting, marketing, wine knowledge and wine tasting, as well as giving a speech at the din ner.

And Marisco’s Alun Kilby was crowned the 2022 Ton nellerie de Mercurey Marl borough Young Winemak

er of the Year at last night’s award dinner. New Zealand Winegrowers leadership & communities manager Nicky Grandorge says it’s exciting to see how many aspiring Young Win emakers want to stretch themselves and start mak ing a name for themselves.

Alun, 28, was thrilled to take out the title and the judges commented on his broad range of knowledge and skills as he scored con sistently well across all sec tions.

Thomas Jordaan from Vava sour came second and Ruby McManaway from Yealands came third. Section prizes were won

by Ruby McManaway who took out the Fruitfed Sup plies best speech; Alun Kilby who won the Vil la-Maria Indevin Tasting section; Lewis Davidson from Cloudy Bay who won the Vin Olympics and Ellie Hobbs from Rose Family Estate who won the People’s Choice for her rosé blend, judged by the dinner guests. Ruby McManaway also won the best Biosecurity video. The other contestants were Ashley Robinson from Spy Valley, Joyce Zhu from Villa Maria-Indevin, Kait lin Smid from The Wine Studio, Nick Lamain from VinLink and Cameron Steel from Nautilus Estate.

Newsinbrief

JUST THE TICKET

Marlborough Airport has introduced a new li cence plate recognition system so people park ing at the airport no longer need to use paper tickets. Marlborough Airport Operations and Safety Manager Steve Holtum says the old tick et-based system was expensive and prone to er ror with people often losing or damaging their tickets. “The new licence plate system, intro duced on Tuesday 20 September, is a lot more user-friendly and provides a better experience for people parking at the airport,” he says.

Figures from the Ministry of Health shows there are 44 practitioners across Nelson Marl borough registered to help people with the assisted dying process. The figure includes in dependent medical practitioners, attending medical practitioners and psychiatrists. Assist ed dying became legal in November last year. Between then and 30 June 2022, 400 people across the country applied. Of these 143 people had an assisted death. To protect people’s priva

Queen Charlotte Drive, between Havelock and the Grove Jetty has reopened but vehicle length restrictions are still in place. Marlbor ough Roads Manager Steve Murrin says road ing crews have been working around the clock since the August storm to restore access as soon as it is safe to do so. “Thursday’s reopening follows specialist inspections of the stretch of road,” he says. Anakiwa Road, as far as the Tiri

Rarangi, Grovetown and Seddon have been added to Council’s Small Townships Pro gramme. With a focus on “love where you live”, the Small Township Programme’s kaupapa is about the design of a liveable and attractive central space that allows freedom of movement, connectivity, and accessibility. Outgoing Small Townships Chair, Clr Cynthia Brooks, says it’s time for the communities of Rarangi, Grove town and Seddon to have their time in the sun.

“We want to strengthen the sense of place and identity of our smaller communities and en hance the use and enjoyment of the outdoor public spaces within them, working from the

Alun Kilby was crowned the 2022 Tonnellerie de Mercurey Marlborough Young Winemaker of the Year. Photo: Supplied.

Weld Pass night closures loom to improve road safety

Safety improvements to Weld Pass will see the road closed at night.

From Sunday, 9 October to Thurs day, 13 October, the road will be closed between 10 pm and 6 am for planned maintenance work. Access will be available for emergen cy vehicles.

Residents and regular road users are being asked to be patient while the vital work is carried out.

Waka Kotahi System Manager Top of the South Andrew James says the pass is too narrow to make passing roadworks a safe option.

“State Highway 1 Weld Pass is a narrow and winding road, with no room for vehicles to safely pass roadwork sites.

“Using stop/go traffic management simply isn’t an option if we want to keep our road crews safe.

“The other advantage is a full clo sure allows our contractors to work uninterrupted and get the job done much quicker.”

Multiple maintenance works will be carried out, including preparation for asphalting work planned for Jan uary next year.

The work is essential for keeping the highway up to standard and safe for

road users, Andrew says. “There’s an old saying, ‘a stitch in time saves nine’, doing regular main tenance work like this helps us avoid spending more on major repairs lat er.”

Road users are being urged to check the highway’s status and plan their travel while this work is underway. The only alternative route between Picton and Christchurch will be the inland route via Murchison and the Lewis Pass – this adds 90 minutes to two hours to travel times between Christchurch and Picton.

More night closures for State High way 1 Weld Pass are scheduled for resealing work between 22 January and 3 February 2023.

Officer makes history at monarch’s funeral

PAULA HULBURT paula@topsouthmedia.co.nz

A Blenheim air force officer has helped make history after marching in the Queen’s funer al procession.

Royal New Zealand Air Force logistics and supply specialist, Warrant Officer Darren “Dig by” Bentley arrived in London to begin training for the histor ic event.

For the former Marlborough Boys’ College student, it was a very proud moment.

“I’ve been very proud to be part of something that is much bigger than me. This is part of history, walking down there.

“It’s something I can tell the grandchildren.”

Despite having strong Scot tish and English heritage, with grandparents on both sides coming from the UK, Darren had not been to Britain before.

Watching the Queen’s casket being taken from the gun car riage to the Royal hearse and driven away was a ‘’goosebump’ moment, he reveals.

“You knew it was the final thing and the last time I would ever see her.”

Currently posted to NZDF Auckland, Darren was one of 24 New Zealand Defence Force sailors, soldiers and aviators alongside Australian and Ca nadian personnel in the Com

monwealth contingent. They had spent a week training for the historic march which took them from Westminster Abbey to Wellington Arch

The NZDF contingent ar rived last Monday and spent the week training at Pirbright Army Camp in Surrey.

In the early hours of Thursday morning (UK time) they were part of a full dress rehearsal with UK Armed Forces on the Mall in London.

A highlight of the week was the

Prince and Princess of Wales’ visit to Pirbright on Friday, to thank the Commonwealth contingents for coming so far. The New Zealand contingent returned the thanks by per forming the Defence Force haka.

As a Warrant Officer, getting back into marching drill was a case of blowing off the cob webs, Darren says.

“It’s been good to get a refresh from the younger ones. It’s been great watching them and seeing how they are experienc ing this.

Darren joined the Air Force in 1990 after leaving Marl borough Boys’ College. His father came home with a bro chure and he thought the idea of airplanes and heli copters sounded pretty cool.

“Thirty-two years later, here I am,” he says.

As a Logistics and Supply spe cialist, Darren has travelled widely, including stints in East Timor and the New Zealand Defence Force’s support to the Antarctic programme.

Darren was on the first Boeing 757 flight to land on the ice near McMurdo Base and has been an instructor for years.

“My parents were well-known school teachers and my sister teaches at Marlborough Girls’ College. So I haven’t quite dis carded the family gene.”

The Wairau Awatere Ward is the heart of Marlborough, and I would like to represent this community on council, to ensure its voice is heard clearly.

It’s just as important that we ensure our communities’ needs of today are met, while also building for the future. We’re starting to feel the impacts of climate change on vital infrastructure such as roading. Future plans and budgets will need to allow for this. If elected, my commitment to you is to be part of that considered, constructive approach, putting the people of rural Marlborough first.

Warrant Officer Darren “Dig by” Bentley, experienced a sombre moment of history marching down London’s Mall in the Queen’s funeral procession. Photo: Supplied/ NZDF.

The Weld Pass will be closed for improvements. File photo.

for Wairau Awatere

The ever-popular Daphne

Ithink it is fair to say that Daph ne is one of the most requested plants in garden centres.

If this was a competition and there were only two plants to choose for this title - I believe a Daphne and a lemon tree would be the winners.

Described as a deciduous or ever green shrub. It has simple leath ery green or variegated leaves with clusters of highly fragrant white, pink, red or mauve flowers.

Daphne prefer cool well aerated gritty, humus rich soil. They are intolerant of their roots being disturbed or root competi

tion.

They will not grow in limey or acid soils and dislike sitting in water. The result of this will be root rot.

They will also not thrive in tropi cal or high humidity areas.

I always suggest that they are planted on the south side of your house or at your back entrance. Although do consider planting anywhere that you can inhale their glorious perfume.

If your Daphne lives for 7 years –you are lucky. Do not have high expectations for its life span.

If your Daphne does not flower,

it is possibly in too much shade. Daphne’s do not like pruning, but if you insist – prune after flower ing, for shape only. Fertilise Daphne with an acid fertiliser in early spring or early autumn.

Yellowing leaves are a possible magnesium deficiency (mg) that can be corrected with epson salts or it could be an indication of too much sun.

Propagation

Cuttings are best taken in Dec/ Jan. Use non-flowering wood. Place

in sand and be patient, as Daphne can be slow to form roots.

Varieties

The most common varieties are:

Daphne odora ‘Leucanthe’

Upright growing. White/pink fragrant blooms. 1-1.5m high.

Daphne odora ‘Alba’ Creamy white, very fragrant flowers. 1-1.5m high.

Both flower on terminal clusters May to July and are sweetly per fumed. Daphne – ‘Perfume Princess’ in white or pink.

Said to be the longest and earliest flowering with very large flowers that open up the stems. Fragrant, but my opinion is not as strong as Leucanthe and Alba.

There are of course other vari eties, investigate in gardening books or on line.

D. genkwa, D, mezereum, D. Bholua, D. cneorum.

I have two Leucanthe, one alba and two Perfume Princess plant ed at mine.

It could be said I am in love with Daphne’s. Find yours at local nurseries now.

GARDENING

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Tears shed as half of Marlborough’s experienced councillors retire

MAIA HART Local Democracy Reporter

Memories were shared and tears were shed as half of Marlborough’s coun cillors and the mayor bowed out dur ing the last full council meeting of the term.

Councillors Jenny Andrews, David Oddie, Cynthia Brooks, Michael Fitz patrick, Mark Peters, Francis Maher and Marlborough Mayor John Leg gett attended their last meeting on Thursday.

Collectively that’s more than 70 years of council experience.

Assets and services iwi representative Richard Hunter and environment committee rural representative Ross Beech were also farewelled.

Jenny Andrews

Leggett told Andrews 24 years on council, 12 of which as deputy may or was an “immense contribution”, which was “rightly recognised” when she received a Queen’s Service Medal for her services to seniors and local government in June this year.

He said she was “certainly respected” by the Marlborough community, as proven during polling every election as she was always “right at the top”.

Andrews said joining council back in 1998, and being appointed depu

ty mayor was the “steepest learning curve”.

She said she had attended nearly 3000 meetings since – and her highlights included seeing Stadium 2000, the ASB Theatre and soon to open library built.

Cynthia Brooks

Through tears, Leggett told Brooks he had worked with a number of coun cillors, but none were as in tune with the community as her.

“Cynthia you are just the heart and soul of what you have achieved here, and it’s always been a pleasure,” Leg gett said.

“We will miss your scones ... all I need to know is how much salt, how much sugar and is it fan bake?”

Brooks said her initial decision to stand for council was spontaneous, and came out of gratitude.

“To my fellow councillors across the three terms, it’s been a privilege to share the mahi with you.”

She recognised the “wonderful fel low wāhine” around the council table in particular, and told Leggett she would always treasure the years of service she had alongside him.

Mark Peters

Leggett told Peters he was one of the heavy lifters, achieved off the back of his “very impressive” business back

ground.

“You’ve been a person every body has trusted. More than that ... you’ve always treated everyone, including fellow councillors and members of the public with respect.”

Peters, who celebrated his 50th anniversary with his wife this year, was retiring from council to lighten his commitments, after an extensive career serv ing on various public and pri vate company boards – such as the New Zealand Rugby Union and Highlanders Rugby finance director.

“One of the things we have got is a council that has unity,” he said.

“We have a strong balance sheet, that comes not from the work we’ve done, but those be fore us.”

David Oddie Leggett told Oddie he had the respect of all the councillors and everybody in the building.

He said Oddie’s lasting “lega cy” would be the work he had put into the Marlborough En vironment plan.

Oddie said when he entered council in 2010, he went on a “really steep learning curve”. “I hope that the district is a place that is better off from my involvement here as a council lor,” he said.

Michael Fitzpatrick Leggett acknowledged the business approach Fitzpatrick brought to the council table, off the back of a successful ca reer.

Leggett said he hoped to one day see Fitzpatrick back at council as he thought he had a “hell of a lot” to offer.

“I know you’re going to do a

bit of travel ... just don’t put that living the dream sign on the back of your campervan.”

Fitzpatrick said after many years of listening to people complain about the council while in his shop, he thought it was time to do something about it.

Now, having sat around the table for two terms, he under stood why some things do take a while, he said.

Francis Maher

Leggett told Maher he was pleased to see him back around the council table at the start of last term.

He admired that when it came to decision time Maher never hid, always had a strong voice, and was always decisive.

“I think local government needs that,” Leggett said.

Maher said the “hardest pill to swallow” was that the council did not have all the answers at present to the ongoing roading issues.

“I’ve worked with a lot of real ly good councillors, and may ors. I think really, it’s the staff that are going to be my lasting memories,” he said.

Richard Hunter

Leggett told Hunter he spoke softly, with a clear voice and when he did – everybody lis tened.

“I’ve always enjoyed your com pany,” Leggett said.

He recalled in about 2019, when he went to Maata Waka in Blenheim, and truly under stood the contribution Hunter had made to the community.

Hunter told councillors the community did not under stand the hard work that coun cillors put in and acknowl

edged the work the council had done in more recent years to connect with iwi.

Ross Beech

Leggett told Beech he would be missed, and he combined a really high level of under standing of issues, and practi cal knowledge on the ground.

Beech said he was a very strong conservationist, and the envi ronment was what kept Marl borough and the community “alive and rich”, and the team he had worked with on council had achieved “great things”.

John Leggett

Deputy mayor Nadine Taylor told Leggett they could not have asked for a better person to serve as mayor.

She said the role required the person to provide leadership to councillors, the community and perform civic duties.

“John has excelled in his deliv ery of all three,” Taylor said. “I don’t want this to sound like a disaster movie, but if it were, then John would be the leader that you would hope would be on the ship, or the aeroplane.” She said he gave off his time and attention freely, and he was leaving the council strong er, healthier and better.

“Thank-you for your strength and guidance and wisdom, thank-you for your friendship and humour.”

Leggett said the role of coun cillor and mayor was a “real privilege”.

“There are heavy lifters step ping away,” he said.

“It is time for others to step into the role. I don’t have any fears about that.”

Marlborough Mayor John Leggett. File photo.

Marlborough Children Youth Theatre Alice dress rehearsal

1. Alice (Lily Parker), Mad Hatter (Claudia Richmond) and Doormouse (Eva Johnson).

The Marlborough Children Youth Theatre Alice cast.

Cheshire cats Elke Stafford and Claudia Stafford.

Queen of Hearts (Eloise Loe) and King of Hearts (Isaac Vincent).

White Rabbit ( Margarita Robasti), Knave of Hearts (Hugo Carre) and Key (Cayden Baxter).

Picton Picnic football tournament

Andy Endersby and Shane Pickles.

Mana and David Collins.

Paul Barnes and Dave Brown.

Phil Crawford and Iain Tyler.

Troy Frost and Dave Brown.

MARLBOROUGH’S

Leslie Bros Contracting Ltd

Supplying and supporting farmers with spraying, cultivation, harvest ing and baling, the friendly crew are the only contractor in Marlborough who also grow and supply supple ment for their customers. Owners, Paul and Phil say the business op erates in two parts, one in agricul ture supporting the farmers and the other, the earthworks side covering farm maintenance, laneway main tenance and ditch clearing in the Marlborough region.

Leslie Bros Contacting Ltd run a va riety of machines including a John Deere precision maize planter that is used to plant about 200 hectares of maize each season and an Allen triple disc drill doing around 1000 hectares per season, as well as this they run a Claas 940 Jaguar Forage Harvester, two hay rakes, a spray truck, and Massey Ferguson tractors ranging from 120hp to 220hp, and 2 x Claas tractors ranging from 200hp to 250hp. Seeing many changes over his years in the industry, including the rising costs of supplies, fuels, and general equipment, environmental impacts and regulations, and chang es in Health and Safety, Phil says it is the people that they get to work with, and help support, that makes it

all worth it. Based in Linkwater, Phil says the family-owned business’s location makes them unique to the sector. “The company has grown a lot but we are still a small local busi ness that is a one-stop-shop to our customers.”

Covering all areas in the Marlbor ough region and accustomed to dealing with the steep country in the Marlborough Sounds, Phil says the team are committed to giving the best service possible with the farmers best interests at heart. “We have the ability to do Grass Harvest ing, Baleage, Hay, Pit Silage, Ground Work, Spraying, Air Seeder Direct Drilling and Maize Planting, as well as Earth Moving, Drain and Drain age Clearing, Land Clearing and Development and Mowing – includ ing in remote areas.”

Located at 1473 Queen Charlotte Drive, Linkwater, New Zealand, call Paul on 0274 225 893, Phil on 027 372 9864, or email Melissa at ac counts@lesliecontracting.co.nz for more information on how they can help support your agricultural and contracting needs. “We are always open!”

AMY RUSS

Formed in 2015 with the merging of two company’s owned by brothers, Leslie Bros Contracting Ltd, are your local experts in agricultural needs.

Marine Services NZ Ltd

Based in Picton, but covering waters both in New Zealand and overseas, Marine Services NZ Ltd was formed in 2018 with the joining of two families taking over an already established company.

General Manager Richard McLean says, “We took over an existing suc cessful business that had been oper ating for over twenty years. We are a service provider to the Aquaculture and Marine industry, suppling and installing screw anchors for marine farms, moorings for vessels of any size, floating pontoons, commercial dive work, barging, jetty building or refurbishment in both the Marine and freshwaters of New Zealand.”

Supporting all aspects of Marine infrastructure Marine Services NZ are dedicated to providing quality service using Design Engineers for planning, and certified engineering firms for the building of their spe cialised equipment, and two unique vessels that are purposely set up for anchoring, mooring and diving work. “Security of the anchoring systems is paramount as the Licen sees are only allowed to use the wa ter-space they have consent for, so must remain inside those bounda ries. So, the accuracy of where we install the anchors, and the ultimate holding power of these anchors is most important.”

Seeing many changes in the indus try over the years, including in creased compliance costs and tight

er regulations, the team continue to successfully navigate their way through everchanging waters to de liver on each and every project. “Aq uaculture is moving out from shel tered waters to more open deeper water meaning it is also rougher so better anchoring systems are re quired. This means we are always developing new systems to ensure we are able to meet these changes and challenges.”

Expansion to the business has seen Marine Services NZ upgrading their fleet and recently completing major projects in Fiordland and Tasmania, the company’s advance ment is a key driver in their passion for the sector. “It is a growth indus try and there are many innovations happening.” Operating across all of New Zealand’s waters, both marine and fresh, Richard says, “We have completed work in Australia as well, and can go globally as and when the demand is there.”

For more information contact on the team on 03 573 8045, or email info@marineservicesnz.com “We are available to look at any Marine projects or problems you may have or are thinking of.”

AMY RUSS

General Manager and Director Richard McLean and Marine Manager Jackson Kibblewhite.

Mako have destiny in their own hands

PETER JONES peter@topsouthmedia.co.nz

The promise that the 2022 Tas man Mako men showed in their previous Bunnings NPC match was realised with a superb dis play of running rugby at Trafal gar Park on Saturday.

Last weekend the Mako did everything but get the job done against Auckland on Eden Park, this time around they delivered in full.

Their 52-17 victory over North land provided them with a vital five points in the race for a hot ly-contested quarterfinal spot, plus offered a huge morale boost as they underlined their burgeon ing potential with seven tries against a tricky opponent.

The Taniwha have racked up wins over Taranaki, Wellington, Southland and Auckland this season, but were outclassed by a home side who have discovered their attacking rhythm at the back end of the season.

Four of the Mako tries were the product of slickly-orchestrated set piece moves, putting a smile on the face of co-head coach Gray Cornelius immediately after the final whistle.

“I’m stoked with what we saw to day,” he said. “We were a bit un lucky last week. The boys were pretty disappointed that we didn’t get the win [against Auckland] after a gutsy performance.

“They have worked really hard this week and I think that showed in the fact we were able to put fif ty on.

“Northland have shown all year how dangerous they can be so our start was really important.

We began the match well and just kicked on from there.

“I am loving our boys’ attitudes on attack … just backing them selves and being brave.

“It suits the make-up of our team and they are having fun. When you have fun you want to play for your mates so it is good stuff.”

While the Mako players, manage ment and fans relished the blow out result, they are fully aware that there is still work to be done if they are to feature in the playoffs.

Tasman sit in fourth position on the table, behind Canterbury, North Harbour and Auckland, who all have one match to play. Northland are six points adrift of the Mako but have games against Bay of Plenty (Wednesday) and Manawatu (Sunday) to come.

On Friday Tasman travel to Napier for their final round rob in match, against a formidable Hawke’s Bay side recently re lieved of the Ranfurly Shield by Wellington.

“We have got to reset pretty quickly on Monday,” said Cor nelius. “Our destiny is still in our own hands so we have to fully fo cus on our next match. Just con trol what we can control.”

Mako skipper Quinten Strange, who made his return after miss ing the last two matches, said “it was good to be back with the boys”.

“I thought it was a really good team performance today … guys really stood up. Taine Robinson at the back played well and Atu Moli who hasn’t played a lot of rugby recently was strong up front. But I’m just stoked how well the boys played as a team.

“We have definitely improved since the start of the season but there is so much more growth to our game that we could potential ly unlock. It is just exciting.”

As far as the forthcoming match with the Magpies is concerned, Strange admits it will be a big challenge to come away with a win.

“We have given ourselves an op portunity [to make the play-offs], and that is all we need as Mako – just an opportunity,” he added.

With the advantage of a steady sea breeze at their backs, the visitors kept Tasman waiting for their first try.

It came midway through the first half, ever-improving first five Willie Havili creating space with an incisive run, his well-timed pass allowing powerhouse centre

Levi Aumua to crash over near to the uprights. Havili converted before handing the kicking duties to fullback Robinson, who was to land seven from seven.

A penalty in the 25th minute by Northland pivot Rivez Reihana gave the visitors their first points but 10 minutes later the home side replied with a superb set piece effort.

Havili was the recipient fol lowing good work by halfback Noah Hotham and winger Mac ca Springer from a scrum on the Northland 22.

Two minutes before the break the home side forged a comfortable 21-3 buffer, ever-reliable mid fielder Alex Nankivell taking the final inside pass following anoth er sweeping backline movement emanating from a scrum on the

halfway line.

The home side bagged their bo nus point try five minutes into the second spell, Aumua sweep ing towards the posts after a 5m lineout variation and bullocking over.

However, the Taniwha are a re silient bunch and had their best period of the match soon af ter, flanker Matt Matich scoring something of a soft try from a back-of-the-lineout move. Reiha na’s conversion closed the gap to 18 points.

Robinson replied immediately with a penalty after an infringe ment from the restart, taking the heat out of the Northland resur gence, but the visitors were not done as replacement Jaycob Mat iu scored from a pushover scrum. Reihana converted to close the gap, but that was the extent of their resistance as the home side, buoyed by their bench players, dominated the final stages.

Firstly, Springer grabbed a loose pass before feeding outstanding halfback Hotham who sped 25m for the try in the corner then, four minutes later, quick hands gave Springer enough time and space to race over on the left. The Mako than iced a memorable afternoon with their final touch down, replacement prop Ryan Coxon scoring from the back of a driving maul to bring up the team’s half century.

Scorers: Tasman 52 (Levi Aumua 2, Ryan Coxon, Macca Spring er, Willie Havili, Noah Hotham, Alex Nankivell tries, Willie Havili con, Taine Robinson 6 con, pen) Northland 17 (Matt Matich, Jay cob Matiu tries, Rivez Reihana pen, 2 con) HT: 21-3 Mako.

Mako winger Fetuli Paea flings the ball wide. Photo: Shuttersport.

Rarangi double-header a success

The Marlborough women’s rep golf side underlined their con siderable strength in depth at the Rarangi course recently, winning the Westrupp Cup.

On a busy weekend at the sea side course, where the men’s Tasman Quadrangular was being played at the same time, they dominated the annual women’s top of the south teams event from the outset.

The success of the Marlborough women’s side was reflected in the make-up of the Tasman side named to contest the South Is land Inter Provincials at Taieri Lakes in Dunedin on the last weekend in October.

The following Marlborough players made the team: Andrea Thomas, Aroha Minhinnick, Emily Stenhouse, Jo Rainbird (who will be making her debut), Sue Murray and Tracy Bary. Minhinnick, Bary, Stenhouse and Murray won all three of their matches in the cup fixture, Rainbird and Thomas both pick ing up a win and a half. Eastern (Marlborough) beat Northern Nelson 4.5-1.5, Western 6-0 and Central Nelson 5.5-0.5.

The overall Westrupp Cup result was: Eastern (Marlborough)

1, Northern Nelson 2, Central Nelson 3 and Western 4.

A highlight of the men’s com petition was the success of the Tasman Junior team who won

all three of the trophies at stake against the intermediate teams from Marlborough, Buller Westland and Nelson.

Nelson won the senior section, beating Marlborough, Buller Westland and Tasman Masters.

The Men's Masters South Is land Inter Provincial team was named at the conclusion of the tournament with Marlborough’s Blair Bavin named to compete on October 1-2 at the Motueka Golf Course.

A Tasman Golf spokesperson said the new format for the weekend had proved popular.

“It was the first time we had two competitions at the same course on the same weekend, and it was a success … we are so proud

of how all the players came to gether to make it successful for Tasman Golf and the future of the game.”

Intermediates and Tasman Juniors: Buller Westland 0 Tas man Juniors 8; Buller Westland 2.5 Nelson 5.5; Buller Westland 2 Marlborough 6; Nelson 3.5 Tasman Juniors 4.5; Nelson 3 Marlborough 5; Marlborough 3.5 Tasman Juniors 4.5.

Seniors and Tasman Masters: Buller Westland 2 Tasman Mas ters 4; Buller Westland 2 Nelson 4; Buller Westland 1.5 Marlbor ough 4.5; Nelson 3.5 Tasman Masters 2.5; Nelson 4.5 Marl borough 1.5; Marlborough 3 Tasman Masters 3.

Left: Tasman juniors representative Max Short, from the Rarangi club, tees off on the par-three 12th. Right: Marlborough women’s player Tracy Bary hits off the 18th tee.

Photos: Peter Jones.

PETER JONES

Lance Nuttall takes aim.

Softballers step up to the plate in 2022-23

PETER JONES

Last summer a group of Marl borough softballers dusted off their bats and gloves and came together to form a team that proved highly competitive in the Nelson/Marlborough In tercity men’s competition.

No senior teams from this province had participated in the combined competition for several seasons, but the Saints combination certainly made their presence felt in 2021-22.

Ultimately, they finished run ner-up to the Eagles outfit from Nelson. This season they hope to go one better.

Another highly-talented squad has been assembled, the younger players having bene fitted from last season’s experi ence and the older hands moti vated to deliver again.

A couple of players have gone from the squad due to work commitments, but coach Dar ren Aldridge has picked up some handy replacements.

Dane Gill and Will Macdonald have joined Saints’ ranks, the latter a highly-rated pitcher, while Gill is a promising in fielder. Also new to the Saints roster are Carter Macdonald, Jason Bird and Joe Timms.

Tyler Bird, Drew Roberts, Braden Healy, Anaru Ander son, Campbell Gill and Blake Wisdom, plus brothers Cal lum and Willem Hayton, who formed the bulk of the side last year, are back and “looking forward to playing some ball”. Absent this time around are Marshall Rawiri, Jaymie Blake and Luke Aldridge.

Darren feels the team is “a bit stronger” than last year’s side, and “should be very competi tive”.

They will have three pitchers to call on, Macdonald, Willem Hayton, who showed plenty of promise last season, and Wis dom.

While Darren’s motivation last season was simply “to get the players back playing ball”, in 2022-23 he is keen “to see the boys back playing representa tive softball”.

He expects the majority of the Saints side to form the Marl borough team which will take part in the South Island-wide Jefferies Cup tournament in February 2023, plus a home and away series against Nelson for a men’s, junior and women’s team later in the year.

The team’s first match will take place in Nelson on October 1, with the first home game scheduled for Lansdowne Park in mid-October. The top of the south competition is expected to run right up to Christmas.

The Saints squad: Dane Gill, Drew Roberts, Campbell Gill, Blake Wisdom, Tyler Bird, Braden Healy, Anaru An derson, Sam Kenny, Callum Hayton, Willem Hayton, Will Macdonald, Jason Bird, Carter Macdonald, Joe Timms. Coach Darren Aldridge.

Changes planned Bringing the Saints side under the wider Marlborough Soft ball Association banner so they are able to contest the Jefferies Cup is one of many changes leading into this season.

The MSA has co-presidents this season, Lawrence Allen and Kelly-Anne Thorstensen, who are focussed on lifting the numbers playing the game across the province.

To this end, Lawrence has had a helping hand in resurrecting the Picton-based Waitohi club, which has been off the scene since the 1990s. The club has been re-affiliated to Softball NZ and will field two or three women’s teams and four T-ball sides.

The women’s teams will join with the other female side in Blenheim to form a fourstrong competition, offering a chance for the youngsters to improve their skills “and take the next step up”.

There are also plans afoot to get a competition with Nelson up and running.

The 51-year-old Lawrence has spent the past 12 years as a professional softball coach in different parts of the world, including the Czech Repub

lic, Serbia, Slovenia and Austria. He coached at three men’s world series for the Czech side, won three NZ junior titles coaching Wellington and one senior men’s title with Hutt Valley. He said the MSA were keen to es

tablish a presence in the region’s schools, with eight primary schools, plus Bohally Intermediate, express ing interest in receiving softball-spe cific tuition while raising interest and enjoyment in the game.

“Once the numbers are up in Marl borough we can identify any players, either children or adults, that want to go higher and work with them at an elite level.

“Then there are the others who just want to enjoy the social aspect of the game … we make sure the social pathways are in place for them be cause we need to keep those players involved in softball too.

“It would be great to take the game back what it was like in the 60s, 70s and 80s where every little town had teams, Mum and Dad played and they had BBQs and social gatherings … we want to get back to that, as well as looking after the elite players,” Lawrence added.

Saints’ softballer Tyler Bird in action last season. Photo: Peter Jones.

Mountain bike club president honoured

PETER JONES

Fraser Brown, described as an “all-round good sort” is the Mountain Bike New Zealand Mountain Biker of the Year for 2021-22.

The Marlborough Mountain Bike Club president, was handed the prestigious award in Wellington recently.

Ryan Hunt, President of Moun tain Bike New Zealand said the award was aimed at those allround good sorts in the wider New Zealand mountain bike community.

Ryan said, “the depth and breadth of Fraser’s involvement in the club during his six years as president was the reason for the award”.

“From building new events, to digging tracks, and building the club both in terms of member ship numbers and through in creased funding from the likes of local council, the club has gone from strength to strength under Fraser’s leadership,” added Ryan.

Fraser said the recognition was unexpected and reflected the hard work put in by the entire Marlborough Mountain Bike Club Committee.

Neil Sinclair, club treasurer, said

that an example of Fraser’s work was the recently-completed up graded Pump Track at Rifle Range. “The new asphalt pump track is a great example of Fraser’s contribution to Marlborough and is proving hugely popular with the local children and bikers. The pump track would not have hap pened if Fraser and Robin Dunn, from Marlborough District Council, had not championed the project and organized its funding and construction”.

Fraser and the club were already planning their next big project, working with Marlborough Dis trict Council to look at the possi bility of creating a new Mountain Bike Skills Park.

It is planned that the skills area will have five zones with vari ous technical features like drops, jumps and rock gardens that will allow rides to increase their skills through the gradual progression of the difficulty of the features.

Fraser said, “there is a real need for the skills park given the rap id growth in the number of local riders in recent years. The skills park will be loved by the chil dren as it will provide a fun and safe environment for then to ride their bikes.

“But it won’t only be for the chil dren, it will also cater for old er riders who have purchased e-bikes, so they too can master basic bike skills. The skills zone is important for the safety of lo

cal riders of all ages.” Neil added that, “the skills zone is an impor tant requirement in allowing the club to host the National Schools Mountain Bike Championships in October 2023, which is esti

mated to contributed over $1m to the local economy.”

Robin Dunn said that it was hoped that public consultation on the proposed skills park will commence this month.

Fraser Brown on the recently-upgraded Pump Track. Photo: Supplied.

Paul O’Donnell

Glenn Kirby

Rob Hellstrom

Peter Coldwell

Max Morris

Matthew Webb

Warren Cairns

Michael Winkler

Colin Martin instant auto

Jamie Norton

Brian Powell

Jayden MacDonald

Brad Taylor

Leon Jones

Mike Newman

Greg Somerville

Jim Schofield

Terry Renner

Brendon Price

Peter Jones

MARLBOROUGH’S COMMUNITY NOTICES

auditions necessary. www.marlboroughsingers.org.

MONDAY

RUMMY-0 CLUB Mon 12.30-4.00pm Ph Joy 5776191 or Mary 5788747.

BLENHEIM SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING Mon 7.30pm Whitney St School Hall. No partners needed. Beginners welcome. Ph Heather 02102587325.

MARLBOROUGH GUILD OF WOODWORKERS Mon 9am-12pm, 7pm-9pm. Wed 9am-12pm. Sat 9am12pm. Wooden toys & projects. 1st Sun monthly 1-4pm. Brayshaw Park. Ph Philip 570 5188.

LINE DANCING Beginner line dance classes. Mon 2pm & 6.30pm at Senior Citizens Hall 166 High St. 1st les son free for new beginners. Ph Judith 5787554 or 0212341095.

ROTARY CLUBS in Blenheim meet Mon & Tues 5.30pm. A world-wide service club for men & women, doing great things in your community. For info on meeting venues, ph Jon 0272229505 or Kevin 0211738784.

TUESDAY

RED HAT SOCIETY The Kiwi Damsels in De-Stress are part of a worldwide organization for women to enjoy fun, laughter & friendship. A specific dress code is part of the fun. This daytime group meets twice a month on the 1st and 3rd Tues mornings. Ph Tina 0211045945.

ST JOHN BLENHEIM YOUTH DIVISION 6-7.30pm Tues (school term) All youth welcome, 5 - 18 years. Adult leaders 18+ Marlborough Youth Trust 18 Kinross St, Blenheim Central.

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

PICTON LINE DANCE CLASSES Beginners welcome. Tues 9.30am. Anglican Church Hall. $6 per class. Ph Carol 0212125252 / Raewyn 021715484

MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB Parker St. Tues 9am12pm. Social tennis. Morning tea 10.30am. Non-mem bers $5. All welcome. Ph. Joanna 0275786436.

PERSISTENT PAIN SUPPORT GROUP Tues 5-6pm, Biddy Kate’s, 2 Market St. Drop-in group for people with persistent pain & those supporting them.

SAYGO (Steady As You Go) Balance/Exercise class Tues 11.30am-12.30pm. St Christophers Church Hall, 92 Weld St, followed by a cuppa & chat. Cost $2. Sign in & masks please. Ph Diana Brooks 0212694198 Eldercare Coordinator.

DAFFODIL CONNECT an informal support group to meet other people living with cancer. 11am every Tues at Raupo Café. For people with any cancer diagnosis, support people are also welcome to attend. Look for the daffodils on the table or call Christabelle at the Cancer Society 03 579 4379.

MARLBOROUGH HERB SOCIETY Meets 4th Tues of month. 7pm, various locations. Promote use, educate & identification of herbs. Text only Meredith 0272122773.

SIT AND BE FIT Tues & Thurs 1.15pm Cost $2. Contact Riversdale Community House 5780469 or 0223007342.

PUBLIC SPEAKING Sunbelt Toastmasters Tues 6.308.15pm, Woodbourne Community Centre. Have fun, gain confidence & build leadership skills. Visit three times before joining. Not for profit. Ph 02102558352.

BLENHEIM CHORAL (Marlborough Singers) Tues 7pm, Wesley Centre, Henry St. New members welcome, no

BLENHEIM AIR TRAINING CORP Tues 6.30-9pm RN ZAF Base Woodbourne. Recruiting new cadets aged between 13 & 15 for 2022. For more info email: 27sqn@ cadetforces.org.nz

PICTON NEWCOMERS NETWORK 1st Tues of month ‘COFFEE & CHAT’ 10-11am, Seabreeze Café, London Quay. New to town? Need help to settle in? Interested in local activities? We can help! Ph Cathy (Coordinator) 0210451799 picton@newcomers.co.nz

KNITTERS & SPINNERS MEET-UP Tues 10.30am, Pic ton library. Bring your knitting to the library for this social catch-up.

LINDY HOP SOCIAL DANCING Free. Tues 7-8pm, Little Theatre, Picton. All ages welcome, no partner neces sary. Ph Daniel 0224953407.

ART THERAPY GROUP for pregnant women. Tues 5-8pm. Ph Tatiana 0279019807.

TABLE TENNIS for adults Tues 10am-12noon. Lit tle Theatre, Picton. $3 per session. Meet people & get some exercise. New members welcome. Ph Ernest 0275888453.

RENWICK PLUNKET PLAY GROUP Tues 8.45-11.45am during school term. Renwick Playcentre building, Have lock St. Come & join us for some great fun. All welcome!

RENWICK MENZ SHED 54 High St Renwick. Left side of church. Morning tea provided. Tues 9am-12pm. Ph Dave 021 0228 2592.

WEDNESDAY

MARLBOROUGH MULTICULTURAL CENTRE hosts a newcomers morning tea, Wed 10.30am-12noon, 21 Henry St. Opportunities for Newcomers & Marl burians to make friends, practice English & support each other. Everyone welcome. Tea, coffee & biscuits provided. Ven y practica tu inglés. Te esperamos.

LITTLE CRITTERS PLAY GROUP Wed 9.30–12noon. Community House, 131 Budge St. Ph Linda 0221099242

HEART HELP SUPPORT Community group dedicated to the well-being of those who live with a heart con dition or experienced a heart attack. Also offering sup port to whanau. Meets 3rd Wed of the month, 10am, Quench Chateau Marlborough, 95 High St. Ph Jenny Goss 0211629102.

BLENHEIM PROBUS CLUB Retired or semi-retired? En joy good fellowship? We’d love to see you at our meet ings on the 1st Wed of the month (except Jan), 10am, Wesley Centre. Coffee mornings & outings as well. Ph. Raewyn 5784576 or Robert 5788938.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS casual parents & caregiv ers catch up, Wed 10.30-12pm, town Plunket Clinic, 16 Henry St. No charge.

SUPPORT GROUP for postnatal mothers. Every Wed, 9.30am to 12pm. Childminders help with babies. Ph Tatiana 0279019807.

MARLBOROUGH CHINESE FELLOWSHIP Chinese Christian group, whether interested in the Bible or Christianity, desiring to grow in the faith, or would like to meet new friends, we welcome you. Wed 6-7.30pm, St Christopher’s Church. 92 Weld St. Ph Guan 0221 642 782, Mandy 0224 326 886.

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING 7.30pm, Wed, Picton Little Theatre. No partner needed. Beginner’s welcome.

DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP Meets every Wed 10-

11.30am to support each other, have regular speakers, outings, share in a safe environment. Ph Alistair Craw ford for details 0272883032.

MARLBOROUGH VINTAGE CAR CLUB MUSEUM Sun & Wed, 1.30 – 3.30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, Blenheim. Donation appreciated. Other times by ar rangement. Ph Bill 0275784322.

BLENHEIM PETANQUE CLUB Games held at courts, 65A Weld St, Wed 1-3pm & Sun 10am-12pm. Ph Chris 5787303 or Brian 5742267.

LIONS’ CLUB OF BLENHEIM Serving the commu nity for over fifty years. Would you like to know more about the Lion’s Club? Interested in becoming a Lion? Tea Meetings held on 2nd & 4th Wed. Ph Delphine Lee 0299425004 Helen Williams 0211458572.

WAITOHI SOCIAL CLUB for a bit of fun & friendship. Join us the last Wed of month, 10am Picton Library. FREE event, all welcome!

INNER WHEEL CLUB OF MARLBOROUGH Womens’ Service Organization - we are looking for new members interested in service in the community along with fun & friendship. Our meeting is 4th Wed of the month. Ph Dot 0210632995.

THURSDAY

INVITING YOU TO COMPANIONS for ages 65+, 1st Thurs of the Month at 1pm. Meet at Harvest Life Church, 22 Nelson St. It’s free, so no strings attached and there’s YUMMY afternoon tea. We have an interesting pro gramme throughout the year. For more info please phone Avon 03 579 2440, Lorraine 03 578 1240, or Shirley 03 578 3728.

COMMUNITY CHOIR Thurs 7-9pm, during school terms. St Ninian’s Hall, 1 Riley Crescent, Redwoodtown (opp church). Come and join the community choir Crea tive Voice. All musical abilities and new members wel come. F: CreativeVoice@singforfriendship

KEEP U MOVING Gentle indoor walking exercise for Seniors. 11.30am-12.30pm each Thurs except 4th Thurs of month, followed by a cuppa & chat. Cost $2. Sign in & masks please. St Christophers Church Hall, 92 Weld St. Ph Diana Brooks Eldercare Coordinator 0212694198

COPD SUPPORT AND EXERCISE GROUP Free. Every 2nd & 4th Thur 1.30pm, the Foundry hall, 3 John St. For more info Ph Karen at Asthma Marlborough Inc 035791609 or 0272057244.

PICTON TABLE TENNIS 10am-12pm, Port Marlbor ough Pavilion, Waikawa Rd. All adults welcome. $3 incl. morning tea. Equipment supplied. Ernest 0275 888 453.

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS Thurs 7-8pm Riversdale Community House, 131 Budge St.

FRIDAY

PICTON LUNCHTIME CONCERT 12noon Fri 7 Oct, fea turing Brian Piper & Larry Allison ‘GOLDCARD’ at the An glican Church, Nelson Square, Picton. Free entry, light refreshments afterwards. Koha appreciated.

PICTON NEWCOMERS NETWORK ‘SUNDOWNERS’ @ Chart room, Picton Yacht Club Hotel, 25 Waikawa Rd, 5-6pm. New to town? Need help to settle in? Interested in local activities? We can help! Ph Cathy (Coordinator) 021 045 1799 picton@newcomers.co.nz

LINK Fun & board games & afternoon tea for all in the lounge at Nativity Centre, 76 Alfred St every Fri 1pm.

Gold coin donation appreciated. Ph 5783909 for info. UPBEAT ORCHESTRA community orchestra for all ages, instruments, from beginner-grade 5. St Ninians Church Hall, Alabama Rd every Fri 5-6.30pm For more info email upbeatorchestra@gmail.com

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

WALK OF LIGHT Free Event Pollard Park Sat 1st Oct 6.30pm. Bring your whanau & friends for this lantern walk event. Celebrating being together. Details on Facebook@creativearts.nz

MARLBOROUGH STAMP COLLECTORS CLUB SALE

DAY 2 Oct. Doors open 10am. General meeting 17 Oct 7.30pm, doors open 7pm. Grant Clifford talking on his Chalons. Held at 34 Arthur Baker Place.

BLENHEIM ROTARY BOOTSALE MARKET We’re back! Railway station carpark, Sat, 8am-12pm. Blenheim Rotary Bootsale operating over 25 years, funds to local/ international projects. New or used items, plants, food, coffee carts welcome. See bootsalemarket on Facebook.

MARLBOROUGH STROKE CLUB is a voluntary organi sation dedicated to the wellbeing of those who have experienced a stroke, and to the support of their car egivers. We offer support, friendship & education with various meetings held each month. Ph Vyvienne Dunlop 5783837 / 021929955.

MARLBOROUGH MOUNTAIN BIKE CLUB committed to seeing mountain biking flourish in Marlborough. We hold regular rides suitable for all levels of fitness & abil ity. Including back country expeditions, easy local rides, more serious mountain bike races. marlboroughmoun tainbike@gmail.com.

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

MARLBOROUGH ARTISAN CRAFT MARKET Sat, Mar ket Place. Come down & meet your local craft people. Children’s area with games for young & old. A free Com munity Site to promote or fund-raise your organisation. Renwick Tennis Club 8 Uxbridge St.

RENWICK SOCIAL TENNIS Sat 2-4pm weather permit ting. Members $2 Visitors $5. 10 Uxbridge St (behind Bowling Club). Ph Anna Simpson 0212702662 or visit our Facebook page for more details & upcoming events.

REPAIR CAFÉ New community initiative. We’ll fix your small repair on site, on the day, while you wait and have a cuppa. Sewing/darning, bikes, small furniture/wood en items, toys electronic and mobile phones. Every 4th Sat monthly, 9am–12pm, John’s Kitchen, 2 Redwood St. Donations accepted.

MARLBOROUGH FARMERS MARKET A&P show grounds, 9am-12pm Sun, local fresh & seasonal pro duce & products.

REDWOOD MARKET Redwood Tavern car park, Cleg horn St. 8am-noon every Sat. Plants, garden products, flowers, crafts including handmade soaps, cards & jew ellery. Raising money for your community.

CRUISEY CHURCH for kids of all ages & their adults. Includes bible stories, games, songs, crafts & dinner. 3rd Sat of the month from 5-6.30pm. St Andrew’s Church, 5 Henry St, Blenheim. Koha appreciated.

PICTON RAIL & SAIL on the Picton Foreshore. Mini

train rides & Yachts from 20cents. Every Sun & all school holidays, subject to weather.

BLENHEIM RIVERSIDE RAILWAY Runs 1st & 3rd Sun of the month. We have Eftpos. facebook/RiversideRailway.

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

BAHÁ’Í DEVOTIONS 1st & 3rd Sun, 11am, Marlborough Community Centre, 12th Lane, Blenheim cnr Farmers carpark. “In the garden of thy Heart plant naught but the rose of love”. www.bahai.org.

BARNABAS CHURCH BLENHEIM Sun services, 4pm (all welcome). St Ninians Church, corner Riley Cres & Alabama Rd. Scripture-based, church (est. Jan 2019). Affiliated to Church of Confessing Anglicans Aotearoa New Zealand (CCAANZ). More info: barnabas.org.nz.

KETO SUPPORT GROUP meets Sat fortnightly (ap prox. beginning & mid-month), 10am, Revival Cafe, Springlands. Informal gathering of folk interested in this dietary practice. No charge, no obligation - but the coffee’s great! Ph 027 505 7774 for more info.

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

GENERAL GROUPS

WEEKLY STEADY AS YOU GO CLASSES Mon 10.3011.30 The Foundry, John Street. Tues 11.30-12.30pm, St Christopher’s Church Hall, Weld Street, Redwoodtown Tuesday 1.30 – 2.30pm, Union Parish of Picton, 40 Broadway, Picton (2 doors down from Police Station) Wed 1.30-2.30pm, Marlborough Community Centre, 25 Alfred Street, Blenheim. For more information, please call the Age Concern office 579 3457. Cost Blenheim $2 per class; Picton $3 per class.

MARLBOROUGH COMMUNITY VEHICLE TRUST Have difficulty getting to medical appointments in NELSON? This trust was created to carry people to Nelson for medical appointments. Ph 574 1311 or soundsvehicle@ gmail.com.

AA MEETINGS Marlborough area. Ring alcoholics anonymous for help to stop drinking. Ph 0800 229 6757. www.aa.org.nz.

MENZ SHED Blenheim, 4 Dillons Point Rd, Bright Centre Complex. Where men of all ages can meet to just chill out or do projects for themselves or the community. We provide equipment, tools & workspace for most wood work & metalwork projects. Open Sat 9am-12 noon. Mon & Thurs 1-4pm. Ph Dave 0212340057.

MARLBOROUGH TRAMPING CLUB A very active club, holding mid-week & Sun trips & regular overnight tramps. Extended trips further afield also on the cards. Ph 572 8762.

SENIORNET MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS Linkwater Hall, Queen Charlotte Drv for people 50+ to learn about technology & what it can do for them. Includes monthly ‘Drop-In’ session open to all. Interest groups meet monthly. Digital imaging, Family History, Smartphones, Tablets. Ph Liana Bull 027 255 1511.

MARLBOROUGH YOUNG PROFESSIONALS (MYP) not-for-profit networking group dedicated to the next generation of professionals. Connecting like-minded people & fully integrating them into Marlborough lifestyle. Connect with us on Facebook.

MARLBOROUGH’S

Annette Leach

VACANT

hellomarlborough@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Tractor/Machinery Operator

JTC Viticulture is a well established vineyard management company who has been operating in Marlborough for 30 years.

We have an exciting opportunity for a hard working person to join our committed and passionate team.

Attention all Advertis ers – Terms of Trade: By placing your advertise ment you agree with the terms and conditions of the Marlborough Week ly Ltd. Namely, payment by the 20th of the follow ing month. In the event of non payment interest will be charged on all debts 90days + over due, The costs of any debt collection costs, included agency costs, will be on-charged to the client. For full terms of trade go to https:// marlboroughweekly. co.nz/terms-of-trade/.

This is a permanent position located in Blenheim, however we would consider a seasonal appointment for the right person. If you are an experienced tractor and machinery operator this position would suit you.

Work would include vine trimming, spraying, mowing, harvester work during the grape harvest etc. You would need to be prepared to work extended hours when necessary.

If you are honest, reliable and hard working and looking for an opportunity to work in a dynamic business with a team of passionate and hardworking staff, then this position may be for you. You will need a current full driver’s licence and be eligible to work in New Zealand. As part of our recruitment process pre-employment checks may include drug and alcohol testing.

To

578 5300

admin@jtcvit.co.nz

Customer Services Representative - Call Care is the Top of the Souths Largest outsourced centre operation 24 hours, seven days a week.

We have a number of vacancies available in our pro gressive team. These are full time positions however part time positions could be discussed. Eventually some positions could eventuate to be home based remote agents.

Applications must have the following:

• Available for shift work including evenings, early morning, weekends and public holidays

• Excellent keyboard/computing skills

• Please telephone manner/ customer service focused

• Great spelling, excellent written and oral English

• A good geographical knowledge of New Zealand would be an advantage

• Ability to remain calm when busy and under pressure

• Reliability is extremely important

These are long term employment opportunities. If you think you have the above qualities please send an email to stephen@callcare.co.nz with your CV with reasons why you feel this position would suit you.

INTERMEDIATE PLANNER

MARLBOROUGH

Baseline Group is a resource consent planning consultancy looking for an intermediate planner to join our team.

Our team prepares and processes resource consent applications, provides District Plan help and advice to land developers, large and small. It is a varied role with some project management components.

We offer support, mentoring and ongoing training, and can offer flexible working options for the right candidate.

About you:

• Have 2-5 years’ planning experience in either the public or private sector.

• Have experience working under the Resource Management Act (RMA).

• A relevant tertiary qualification in planning and/or resource management.

• Excellent report writing and presentation skills, with high attention to detail.

• Enthusiastic, motivated and keen to work in a small office environment on a large range of varied and interesting projects.

To apply, please email your CV and cover letter to marlborough@blg.nz

School Bus Drivers Blenheim

Do you enjoy driving? Come and join Go Bus Transport, the largest passenger transport provider in New Zealand!

This is an ideal chance to make a change in your life and try something different with a great company. If you are thinking of re joining the workforce or looking for extra hours this role may well suit you

We are looking for Permanent Part Time & On Call Casual staff for School Bus Drivers in the Blenheim area

The hours we offer are a minimum of 2 hours in the morning and 2 hours in the afternoon, Monday to Friday School Terms only W h at you need W: :

• Enjoy being with young people and have their safety and welfare at heart

• Class 2 Licence

• P endorsement (we can help you obtain this)

• A responsible and caring approach

If you want to be part of a business that is making a difference in your community then we want to hear

Our recruitment process includes a Drug and Alcohol Test and Police Vetting check

Don't let this role drive by! Apply today! Apply online go to gobus.co.nz/JobOpportunities R e f# 3511, con ta ct Bre tt Husband on 021 153 1803 or send your CV and cover letter to Brett Husband@gobus.co.nz

FIXED-TERM CHEF DE PARTIE

• Assist with innovative menu creation, regular menu styling, and seasonal changes.

• Have a strong passion for providing food of an exceptional standard.

• Be enthusiactic, innovative and, driven.

• Be able to work in fast paced and pressured situations.

• Be fluent in oral and written English and have NZ residency and a valid NZ work visa.

• A knowledge and passion for wine is an advantage.

This is a full-time fixed term position covering our busier summer season (November 2022 to May 2023) and will include weekends and often public holidays. Usual operating hours are daytime only however there will be the occasional requirement to work in an evening for a function.

If you’re currently residing in New Zealand, please forward your cover letter and CV to david@saintclair.co.nz

email:

Hortus’ journey began with a small personal loan, a van load of staff, and the dining table as an office, moving quickly to a tiny portacom on the edge of a vineyard. Years later and with a lot of sweat, tenacity, and risk, Hortus is becoming a sizable national business with ambitious growth plans.

The enduring spirit of humanity in healthcare: what happened when AT&R flexed to include a COVID ward

AT&R stands for Assessment, Treatment, and Rehab. Lisa Turner, the ward’s Charge Nurse Manager, explains that the service rehabilitates people who have come into hospital after an acute life event and need more time before returning to the community.

“We see about 25% of the stroke patients that come through the hospital,” Lisa says. “We see people who have broken their hips, pelvis, or upper arms. New amputees who need to learn how to transfer to wheelchairs or walk on a prosthetic leg. People who have been deconditioned after a long time in hospital, for example after pneumonia. We’ll try and strengthen them up.”

However, the pandemic saw the AT&R change its structure to a mixed model ward, meaning one wing was converted to isolate and care for COVID-19 patients while the rest of the ward remained business as usual.

Twice, AT&R changed to become a full COVID ward when required. This brought in a new set of challenges and a new way of managing patient care, explains Lisa.

“I think I went home on a Friday afternoon and come Monday morning we were 100% full of isolation. Every single room,” Lisa says of the

Shifts like these are carefully considered balancing acts, intended to prioritise safety and provide the best outcome possible for patients under difficult circumstances. “I think people would be surprised at what is being managed down here.” Including the effort the team makes to deliver meals as quickly as possible without the aid of a meal trolley. The trolley could not enter the ward if it would be

returning back to the hospital kitchen, which presented a challenge in passing out meals.

“If you don’t get it out fairly quickly the food is cold by the time it gets to the patients, which is not very nice for people who are not feeling well anyway,” Lisa says – a sentiment that speaks volumes about the way she thinks of patient care.

To Lisa and the AT&R staff, simple pleasures like warm meals are not a nicety or a second thought: they are a part of a wholeperson approach to care, recovery, and rehabilitation. Lisa extends her deep gratitude to the household staff, who followed in-depth cleaning protocols within the COVID ward on top of their normal cleaning duties. She also acknowledges the Allied Health Therapists for their ability to remain resilient and adaptable when a full COVID ward meant their patients were relocated, and as a result, so was their place of work. Equally the Vulnerable Health staff who followed COVID-positive patients to the ward.

“Overall the team has done exceptionally well. They have just jumped at the opportunity to gain extra skills along the way but they have not lost their rehab skills.”

To read this story in full head to: www.nmdhb.govt.nz

• Visiting hours are strictly 2.30pm-8pm.

• A maximum of two visitors at a time will be allowed to visit ward patients during visiting hours.

• Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Children too young to wear a mask appropriately may not visit at this time.

Specific advice is in place for Maternity, Special Care Baby Unit, and the Oncology Chemotherapy Units. Please phone the main line on 03 546 1800 and ask to be put through to the ward you want to visit.

Only one person should accompany a patient in the Emergency Department.

Outpatient setting

In an outpatient setting (where people attend an appointment):

• One visitor may accompany a patient to the clinic.

• Paediatric outpatient appointments can be attended by two parents / caregivers or whānau

Inpatient Setting

In most inpatient settings (when people stay overnight):

To read the new policy in full visit: www.nmdhb.govt.nz

Omicron peak. “Eighteen COVID patients and two flu patients.”

CNM Lisa Turner (in dark blue) and her AT&R nursing team in March 2022

Te Whatu Ora Nelson Marlborough have revised hospital visitor policies to reflect the retirement of the traffic light system. Please note it is mandatory for visitors to the hospital to wear a medical mask.

A reminder to only visit if you are well – patients are vulnerable to contagious viruses and disease.