Marlborough Weekly 25th April 2023

VISION

Thriving young people, strong community.

PURPOSE

Our purpose is to help young people realise potential.

VALUES

Caring – Manaaki

Courageous – Maia Collaborative – Tūhono

Thriving young people equates to a stronger community

Established in 2011 in Marlborough, local charity Graeme Dingle Foundation

Marlborough is a leader in positive child and youth development helping young New Zealanders to achieve their potential. Words by Amy Russ.

Their vision is ‘Thriving young people, strong community’ and, with the help of the wider community, they have gone from helping 14 young people in 2011 to working with over 3,200 of the region’s young people in 2023! The Marlborough team works with local tamariki and rangatahi at key life transition points. General Manager, Kelvin Watt, says that presently there are five transformational programmes available for local youth. Involving around 20 staff members and over 1100 volunteers across the region from all walks of life, their programmes bring everyone together to achieve a common goal.

A key programme is Kiwi Can, which is for primary school children aged 5 to 12 years. Delivered every week, to every child in every class, across 15 primary schools across Marlborough, it teaches positive relationships, the values of respect, integrity and resilience.

Just one example of the phenomenal difference the programme can make is apparent through the story of one child, Sam (not their real name). Sam attends primary school in Marlborough and is one of over 50% of children in the region who benefits from weekly Kiwi Can lessons. Since participating in the programme, Sam, has never missed school on Kiwi Can day. “It’s one of their favourite parts of the whole week,” says their mother. The two Kiwi Can leaders are among my child’s most favourite people in the world. You guys are magic, thank you for your mahi.” Sam’s teacher has noticed a marked difference as well saying that their increased confidence in working and playing with others has also ‘spilled over’ from Kiwi Can into their behaviour in the regular classroom.

Some of the Kiwi Can kids from Redwoodtown School show their teamwork in action! Photos: Supplied.

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Security boost for Blenheim businesses after crime wave

From the front

The BBA says there are many possible security options at hand, ranging from bollards and roller doors to security cameras, fog cannons or increased street furniture in front of shops.

“We have to be considerate about the bylaws Marlborough District Council has in place around access and not cluttering footpaths,” Lynette says.

“We must be mindful that anything installed protects our community but makes sure we stay within the environment plan rules…”

“Planter boxes have been really popular and we’re introducing more as people request them.”

Both the BBA and Marlborough District Council has been approached by business owners about tightening up security

03 577 9498

17 Kinross St, Blenheim sales@bpcomputers.co.nz bpcomputers.co.nz

“Police will join us for a community meeting at our AGM about

better CBD security.

“We will be visiting businesses on site to talk through experiences and concerns they have –but we know it’s not ‘one size fits all,” says Lynette.

“Once people have looked into security options more, we can generally steer people in the right direction.”

Security issues facing Blenheim businesses are wider than just break-in’s, with an increasing amount of counterfeit notes.

“The counterfeit 20- and 50-dollar notes that have turned up in the last week have progressed the conversation further – it’s just something else our retailers need to be aware of.

“This has all come simultaneously so it’s a good opportunity to get on the ground with the community, have productive conversations and see how we can assist”.

The environment of central

business districts has been a talking point for a while, and Lynette sees the BBA’s role is to point occupants in the right direction.

“We offer a support network to our community and it’s a matter of keeping conversations open

and letting people know we are an available resource”.

“We canvas businesses on a regular basis to get the good points and obstacles they face - if there’s a common thread, that’s what we focus our support on to see how wide and deep it runs”.

Annies brand back in the family

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It was a family legacy, a wellknown Marlborough name and business the Giles family hoped would be theirs for generations. For 130 years, six generations have lived and worked on their Marlborough farm, their fruit trees ultimately flourishing into the Annies dried fruit snack brand.

So, when the firm went into voluntary receivership nine years ago, the family were devastated. But now they are back at the helm of their much-loved business after buying it back and have revealed big plans for new products.

Original owner Graeme Giles, along with wife Annie, says they couldn’t turn their backs on the opportunity to have the brand back in the family.

“With the history of the brand and as the owners of the factory building, we felt we could not

walk away. It’s a very exciting time for us.

“The “new generation” of Annies owners include our daughter Cabie, her partner Dan, and our grandchildren Thomas and Freya.”

New products in the pipeline include a focus on gut health and

fibre.

“We have the opportunity to covert the brand into a health food range, specifically prebiotics and more fibre.

“We’re also looking at the utilisation of hemp as it’s the ultimate mixture of fatty acids; omegas.”

Graeme says he looks forward

to welcoming staff who started with Annies 22 years ago, back on board.

“There are staff who are still there from when we first came into business.”

Kono NZ purchased Annies in 2014 but in December 2022 announced it would pull the plug as the business had not met performance requirements.

Graeme says spreading the load is also important and Ant Moore from Ant Moore Wine and Marlborough Vintners in Rapaura has also come on board.

The potential for the natural food bars, which have been a goto snack for three generations of families, is exciting, Graeme says.

“We already have several exciting projects underway, looking at new lines and products. Kono NZ COO Andy Wotton says everyone was delighted to see the Annies brand continue and wish the Giles family every success.

From left, Daniel Clearwater, Annie Giles, Freya Clearwater, Graeme Giles, Thomas Giles and Cabie Giles. Photo: abbeymesmanphoto.

Blenheim Business Association’s Lynette Rayner is already starting conversations around security solutions for locals. Photo: William Woodworth

Big freeze for Picton Foodbank welcomed

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

Picton Foodbank volunteers are seeing more demand for the vital service – now a special donation will make helping others even easier.

Kind-hearted members of the Picton Lions Club have fundraised $3600 for two new fridge-freezers.

And as more people rely on the service than ever before, the two additions mean more people in Picton can benefit.

Volunteers Barbara Jones, Jean Faithful and Carol Anderson have seen a major rise in need recently.

“The people we serve is increasing all the time now – an average would be about 15 families a week.

“We’d have our normal regulars and a few new ones but it’s continuously new families all the time now”, says Barbara.

“The people that need our help come from across the board from pensioners to young people to single parents.

“They’re getting to that stage where they can’t do anything else”.

The driving force of Picton Lions’ member Joseph Larrington and the whole-hearted support of the club, means the Foodbank can supply more fresh food.

The fridge-freezer funds were generated selling kindling through local supermarkets, and Cruise Market stall fees.

“Anything we gather goes back to the community, and the foodbank is definitely a worthy cause to support”, says Joseph.

“The foodbank volunteers are really the ones that make all this happen, they do an awesome job with support from the fire brigade, Port Marlborough, local businesses, St Vincent de Paul, Picton Tyres, community mem-

bers and us,” he says.

“It was really up to Joe who came up with the idea and drove it - we’re really pleased to be involved” says Lion Norman Gamble.

“We try and support young people in particular and this donation definitely does that”.

The Foodbank originated out of necessity from local churches twenty years ago.

The fire brigade also makes a major contribution with their November street appeal.

Picton Chief Fire Officer Wayne Wytenburg is more than happy to get involved.

“We’re a great resource for charitable ventures because we have the vehicles and the manpower – we’ve been doing it for several years now and it’s been really beneficial for Barbara and her team.

“Our guys and girls get a real kick out of it - it shows the generosity of the Picton community first hand.

“Funnily enough the people closer to needing the foodbank seem to donate more and that’s so impressive to see – we’re blessed for the generosity of locals from that point of view,” he says. Contact the Picton Foodbank on

0220105591 or donate at the Picton Fresh Choice drop site. Thank you to:

Picton Community, Picton Volunteer Fire Brigade, St Vinnie’s Picton, Port Marlborough, Picton Fresh Choice, Picton Tools and Tyres, Jim Anderson, Meat the Need, Various Social Clubs and Groups, Picton Churches, Waikawa Bay School, Picton Lions Club, Pizza Kebab Picton, Jim’s Automotive, Marine Services NZ Ltd, BNT Auto, Picton 4 Square, Pak n Save, Picton Early Learning Centre, Monetry Donations, Dave - ongoing meat, Barbarapre made meals, Kranky Goat.

Trailblazing tech scoops big win

STAFF REPORTER

Trail-blazing technology to test for disease and environmental issues has won the Supreme Award at the 2023 Cawthron Marlborough Environment Awards.

The supreme winner, Blenheim company DNAiTECH took out the top spot, competing with seven other local category winners.

The company’s innovative work developing DNA sampling and analysis that gives on-the-spot answers was praised by judges, a spokesperson says.

“The judges were impressed by the innovation and wide range of environmental applications, the ease of use, and DNAiTECH’s commitment to engaging young people in science.

“Software and equipment is easy to use and has a wide range of applications in testing for harmful pathogens in water, soil, plants, insects and humans.

“There is also an educational element to the business, which aims to introduce students to applying science to real-life situations.”

Would be winners and supporters attended the awards ceremony at the Marlborough Events Centre last night (Thurs).

The Cawthron Marlborough Environment Awards are held every two years to showcase businesses and community projects that protect and enhance the environ-

ment.

Public field days will be held with all winners to share their knowledge and experience.

The Awards are supported by the Marlborough District Council, Cawthron Institute, Department of Conservation and local sponsors.

They are:

1. Landscape and Habitat Enhancement: East Coast Protection Group

Increased pressure on wildlife and landscape after the uplift of the Kaikoura earthquake led to the formation of the East Coast Protection Group. They are raising awareness about the special plant and animal communities in the area and collaborating with many others to look after them.

2. Marine: Marine Flex

Picton company Marine Flex has developed a mooring and anchor system that reduces damage to the seabed under marine farms, boats and jettys. Marine Flex’s rubber cables are a big improvement on conventional heavy chains that sweep the seafloor and impact marine habitat and sealife. The Marine Flex mooring system is sold around the world.

3. Farming: Sevenoaks

Sevenoaks, farmed by Paul and Cath Baker near Renwick, impressed the judges for its diversity. Sheep, beef, seed crops and grapes are grown alongside wet-

land and biodiversity projects, and there is some tourism activity as well. The Bakers have put a lot of thought into successfully matching land use with land suitability.

4. Wine Industry: Repost

It took a farmer to come up with Repost – a company that recycles broken, chemically treated grape posts into fencing. This solves a serious waste disposal issue for winegrowers, plus provides affordable posts for fencing off streams and significant natural areas around New Zealand. It’s a

win for winegrowers, farmers and the environment.

5. Community Innovation: Picton Dawn Chorus

The skilled and energetic team at Picton Dawn Chorus have mobilised volunteers and households to trap pests and bring back native birds. They are constantly thinking of new ways to do things, encouraging and engaging with volunteers. The judges applauded Picton Dawn Chorus’s community-driven response to deal with a degraded environment and the re-

sults they’ve achieved.

6. Forestry: M&R Forestland Mangement

M&R Forestland Management focused on good planning and working closely with their logging contractor to reduce erosion, sedimentation and damage to waterways during harvesting at Canantor Forest in the Wakamarina Valley. The judges said this collaboration provides a strong example for other forestry companies to follow.

7. Business Innovation: DNAiTECH

2023 Environment Award Supreme Winners DNAiTECH with category sponsors. From left to right: Dr Roger Robson-Williams, Dr Anindita Sen, Tatiana Ceban, Dr Murray Broom, Dr Callum Morris, Gerald Hope. Photo: Supplied.

Picton Chief Fire Officer Wayne Wytenburg, Picton Lion Joseph Larrington, Foodbank volunteer Carol Anderson,Picton Lions President Norman Gamble, and Foodbank volunteers Barb Jones and Jean Faithful. Photo: William Woodworth.

Fowl play planned

PAULA HULBURT

Blenheim’s Taylor River is set to be the scene of some fowl play soon - but all for a good cause. Hundreds of yellow ducks will soon be bobbing their way along the Taylor River in a hotly contested fight for first place.

Life Education Trust’s annual fundraiser Five Buck A Duck Derby gets underway on May 7 and some big prizes are up for grabs.

Teaming up with Marlborough’s More FM and MTF Finance Blenheim, the Trust hopes the public will buy lots of ducks and help raise funds.

Trust Fundraiser and Event Coordinator Tasha Knox says the programme is invaluable, helping hundreds of children in Marlborough School.

“We are a charity that relies on donations, grants, and sponsorships to continue our mahi in local schools.

“Every bit of fundraising we do goes towards getting Life Education in Marlborough Schools

to visit over 5000 children every year.”

The Duck Derby first began in 2018, the brainchild of former trustees Nicky Strong and James Ryan.

This year the trust hope to see 700 ducks take to the waters.

“We started off with 500 ducks and we now have 700. We have never sold all 700 before, we’re hoping this is the year.

“That’s why we’ve introduced online sales of ducks, to make it easier for people to support us,”

Tasha says.

The Healthy Harold programme supports children to make good decisions relating to their health and welfare.

Teaching covers content including food and nutrition, human biology, identity, resilience, and substances, Tasha explains.

“Life Education is a not-forprofit charity. We empower tamariki to make positive choices.

Harold the Giraffe is our muchloved mascot who makes learning fun!

“Our mobile classroom visits up

for river

to 5000 kids per year across Marlborough and Kaikoura.”

The owner of the first duck across the line gets $500 cash thanks to MTF Finance Blenheim, second scoops a staycation for two, winning a night at Chateau Marlborough with dinner and breakfast at Quench Restaurant and third a

$400 Interislander Travel Voucher.

The corporate duck winner gets morning tea thanks to Sweet Creations. Tasha says.

“We are really thrilled with this year’s prizes - thank you to the very generous MTF Finance Blenheim, Chateau Marlborough

and Interislander.”

Purchase a Duck from MTF Finance, Sweet Creations, or online by texting DUCK to 559. Ducks will be available on the day by the Henry Street Bridge, Taylor River from 10:30 am until 11:40 am or sold out, with the race starting at 12 pm.

Many hands make light work: Shelves mostly empty as library shift nears

MAIA HART Local Democracy Reporter

Kia King has about 70 books at home she has borrowed for her and her three children from the Blenheim library.

The library assistant described it as a “panic borrow”, but actually it was exactly what people were encouraged to do in time for a temporary three-week closure on Sunday.

After all – the more books people took out for the closure – the less the team would need to pack up and shift to the new $20m library

and art gallery, which would open on May 12.

“Everybody was worried about not having anything to read for the next three weeks. I’ve been stocking up too,” Kia says.

“I read my youngest three books a night.”

Kia says she was excited to move to the new space.

“The collection will look really stunning, everything nice and fresh, everything’s going to be beautifully arranged.”

Denise McQuade, who has been coming to the library since she moved to the region nearly 20

years ago, thought the new library and gallery was going to be “bigger and better”.

Denise was hoping to take home some extra books, but her options were “limited” when she visited the library on Friday afternoon ahead of Sunday’s closure.

“But I’ve taken as many as I can find.”

Richard Anderson, who visited the library every week, hoped the collection would grow at the new site.

“I tend to read two genres of books, and I’ve been getting to the stage now where I’ve read

most of the books. I’ve been coming for seven years,” Richard says. He says he gets through about two books a week so planned to take out more on Friday to keep him going until the new site opened.

Sergio Gallegos described the library as an “indoor playground” for 18-month-old Nahuel Gallegos-Martinez.

“We are always looking for a place that we can do something inside, especially in winter, because there are not many places for kids his age,” he says.

“It’s also good to be inside the library, because he likes books, he has his own corner at home, for telling him stories, and reading books.”

His partner, Vanessa Martinez, says the new library building looked “beautiful”.

“I think that makes it even better of an experience.”

She said the children’s bookshelf was “nearly empty”.

“Usually this shelf, it’s full with children’s books.”

Nikki Howard, library assistant in the children’s team, said she was particularly excited about the new teen’s space in the new library – which was an “improvement” on what they had.

“Libraries are just so much more than books now days, and everyone is welcome,” she says.

The 3,600m2 library would house

shared areas including meeting rooms, a foyer/reception, café, toilets, a multipurpose education room and landscaped grounds.

The Government in 2020 announced it would cover $11 million of the project’s $20m bill. The project was one of 150 to be approved as part of the Government’s ‘shovel ready’ initiative, designed to boost the economy as the country recovered from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Millennium Public Art Gallery director Cressida Bishop previously said the building’s climate-controlled gallery and storage spaces met the highest standards required for New Zealand public art galleries.

This would enable Marlborough to host exhibitions of rare and valuable works such as the Rita Angus survey exhibition, that the gallery had not previously been able to show.

Before any of the collection could be moved, a blessing of the site would take place on April 28. Despite opening to the public on May 12, an official opening would be held in June.

Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ on Air.

Life Education Trust’s Harold the Giraffe hopes people will support the upcoming Five Buck A Duck Derby fundraiser. Photo: Supplied.

Richard Anderson is hopeful the library’s collection will grow at the new site. Photo: Anthony Phelps/ Stuff.

Blue Door break-in’s silver lining

PAULA HULBURT

A well-known Blenheim charity shop has been targeted by thieves. The Blue Door on Seymour Street was broken into recently with thieves getting away with a haul of power tools.

But yesterday John and Jane Laing at Marlborough Motorcycle Riding School swooped in to help, replacing tools taken with

new ones.

For staff at the Blue Door, the move helped restore their faith in people again.

Tools used by volunteers to dismantle and recycle metal were taken by the thieves, leaving the store without an electric angle grinder, cordless drills and screwdrivers, spanners, a socket set, and adjustable wrenches.

For a store that gives back to the Marlborough Community it was a bitter blow.

Manager Bronwen Demmocks says the duo came into the shop yesterday morning and asked for a list of what was taken.

They returned a few hours later with replacements which was wonderful, Bronwen says. Last year, Blue Door distributed $25,058.88 to not-for-profit

Hospital Covid-19 cases rise

PAULA HULBURT

More people are being admitted to hospital with COVID-19 as a rise in respiratory illnesses starts to hit.

Latest figures from Te Whatu Ora show a rolling seven-day average of 6.5 people being admitted to Wairau Hospital every week.

Nelson Marlborough’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Nick Baker says while numbers are gradually increasing, he does not expect a dramatic rise.

“In early March, we were seeing single numbers of new cases a day in Marlborough, as low as two.

“By the middle of March this had increased to between nine and fourteen and now it’s about 14 to

25 new cases a day.”

Dr Baker says the rise comes as no surprise but emphasises it is not a dramatic surge.

“It’s no surprise at all as Wairau sees an increase in the number of respiratory illnesses coming in.

“Virus spread more easily at this time of year as people are inside more, in less well-ventilated areas.

“Lower temperatures mean the range of droplets is more as there’s less sun and they don’t evaporate. There is less UV [ultraviolet] to kill infection.”

Staff at Wairau Hospital in Blenheim remain vigilant when it comes to taking precautions, including mask wearing and good hand hygiene.

Dr Baker says while protocols

vary from patient to patient, some wear masks while others don’t, especially those who are not mobile or in a single room. The key is to be vigilant, he says. “If you have symptoms in ED [Emergency Department] you will be tested. Patients are not always showing symptoms when they come in.

“We will have some patients and staff who turn up with COVID at times as they don’t know they’re positive.

“COVID is part of our lives now. We’ve always had coughs and colds and now Coronavirus joins Influenzas as a winter virus.”

Dr Baker says vaccinations remain key in the fight against community spread. He is urging anyone who is eligi-

organisations in Marlborough, including Picton Community Centre, RNZ Plunket Blenheim, Supporting Families Marlborough Trust and Renwick Menz Shed.

In the 20 plus years of operation, Blue Door has given out more than $80,000 in grants.

“We have a major point of difference from all the other charity shops in Marlborough in that

all profits are given back to local not-for-profit organisations in need of extra funding.

“The goods we sell are generously donated and we sell furniture, beds, linen, kitchenware, books/ magazines, clothing, outdoor and sporting equipment, fabric and wool, jewellery and plants.”

Applications for the current round of funding close at 2pm on Saturday May 6.

ble for the booster vaccine to get it done.

An additional Pfizer BA.4/5 COVID-19 bivalent booster is now available for people who have completed a primary vaccination course (for most people this is 2 doses). People need to be aged 30 or over or at higher risk of developing

Open Day helps to celebrate one year anniversary in Audiology business

Celebrating their first year of business, Blackmore Audiology owner Sara Blackmore would like to extend a heartfelt thankyou to the community for their ongoing support of the regions only independent and locally owned audiology clinic. “The business is going really well! We are grateful to the support we have received over the past year and look forward to continuing to provide our services to the region for many more. It is wonderful to be out on my own and running my own business. It was a big step to take and we absolutely have no regrets!”

Locally owned and operated, Sara and her highly trained team, provide a complete and personalised service to the local community. Blackmore Audiology stays up to date with the very latest technology to assist their patients. “Because we operate independently, we don’t have to stick to one brand,” says Sara. “We have a range of hearing aid options and can ensure that each patient gets the appropriate treatment for them and their specific needs. It is such a joy to see people’s lives improved with the right assistance.”

May 1st will see the clinic host an Open Day and the opportunity for the public to get hands

Monday 1st May 2023

on with some cutting-edge hearing aids. There will be hearing aid demonstrations and free hearing screens, along with a presentation on hearing loss and the advantages of hearing aids. The seminar will start at 2pm and there will be an afternoon tea provided.” Limited spots are available, so Sara suggests people contact the clinic for more information.

A practicing clinical audiologist for fourteen years, Sara holds a full registration with the New Zealand Audiological Society, and in previous roles, has been a clinical supervisor and mentor for new graduate Audiologists and audiometrists. Offering free

hearing screens for people aged 18 years and older, Blackmore Audiology conduct diagnostic hearing assessments, ear wax removal via micro suctioning and can discuss hearing aid and hearing protection solutions from leading providers. They are registered providers for ACC, Ministry of Health, Veterans Affairs and WINZ, and as an independent clinic they are able to access all brands of hearing aids, offering unbiased advice and service tailored to each individual’s needs. Blackmore Audiology provide consistent care throughout your journey, beginning with a diagnostic hearing assessment to

severe illness from COVID-19. It also must be at least six months since a last vaccine or positive test.

“Normal, good household hygiene remains an important part of aiding against the spread. “We don’t want people to be catching any bugs if we can help it.”

provide information on the severity and type of hearing loss present. “At Blackmore Audiology we are here to guide you through your hearing journey with professional and friendly service each step of the way.”

03 579 3092

21 Francis St, Blenheim

Cases of Covid-19 are rising in Marlborough again. If you feel sick, stay home, test and monitor symptoms. Photo: File.

Owner and Audiologist at Blackmore Audiology, Sara Blackmore. Photo: Supplied.

Fix for flooded river on the way

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

Marlborough District Council staff are set to start work on Blenheim’s overflowing rivers soon. The weed cutting boat is set to be back in the water on May 1 after undergoing yearly servicing. And the move can’t come soon enough after 64.6mm of rainfall in Blenheim over the last fortnight.

Rivers and Drainage Engineering Manager Andy White says recent heavy rain events, weed growth and erosion have all contributed to flooding.

“The last cut was in late January, and we have had an abnormal amount of rain since over the last few months with obvious subsequent effects”, says Andy.

“We must take the weed cutting boat out for a service every year due to its age which we do at the end of every summer.

“This is now complete and our riverbank cutting programme will restart in earnest very shortly”.

Heavy rain caused similar issues across the country, but Andy and his team are ready to remedy recent issues here he says. Silt is playing a part in the high-water levels, he says.

“I suspect that silt and debris deposits is the main contributing factor to the overflowing rivers

– we expect the current amount of water flowing to generally be contained in the existing channels from our last waterway surveys.

“We will be conducting a survey of silt deposited since January before clearing out the deposits where necessary and continuing to monitor Marlborough waterways with our environmental team throughout winter”.

“Our environmental team, alongside local assistance, are examining where the Ōpaoa and Taylor interconnect with the Wairau and have seen major debris and silt deposits.

“Clearing these will help clear the flow the whole way up the rivers”. However, Andy has seen positives out of the increased rainfall that Marlborough has received.

“The ecological health of the region’s waterways with flourishing wildlife despite all of the silt really pleases our team, and the weed growth has meant local eels,

News In Brief

COUNTERFEIT WARNING

Marlborough Police are warning people to be aware of counterfeit $20 and $50 bank notes circulating in the community. People dealing with cash, including business and those receiving cash, are advised to check their notes. If you have information about the use of counterfeit money, please contact Police on 105, either by calling or online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 ‘Update Report’ and reference file number 230418/7101.

VICTIM NAMED

freshwater crayfish, trout, salmon and whitebait have seen great increases in numbers with the plant cover acting as a nursery and a plentiful food source”.

“The Taylor may be an eyesore and an annoyance with its flooding in central Blenheim at the moment and we absolutely acknowledge the frustration Marlburians have experienced being unable to use these public areas”.

“A river with crystal clear water and no weeds is an unnatural and unhealthy waterway, so the fact we are having to restart our programme so soon is an incredibly positive sign for the ecological health in the area”.

“We will also be able to expand the scope of our programme much further upstream than usual due to the high-water level, which means we can cut areas we have otherwise been unable to reach in other years before winter storms start hitting the area in July and August”.

Police have named the victim of a workplace accident in central Blenheim near the BP station on April 10. Father of two David Kempton, 48, died at the scene. The incident has been referred to Worksafe New Zealand and the coroner.

EARTH DAY

Marlborough’s Earth Day celebration, Picnic in the Park returns to Blenheim hosted by Envirohub Marlborough, the event will return to Pollard Park on Sunday 30 April from 10:00am to 3:00pm. After being forced to take a year off due to Covid-19, the family-friendly event will include live music and entertainment, craft market, food vendors, conservation displays, workshops, a Repair Cafe and more.

NUTTY ABOUT PINOLI

Marlborough’s Pinoli Premium Pine Nuts have been named Supreme Champion at the Outstanding NZ Food Producer Awards 2023. The Southern hemisphere’s only producers of pine nuts, founders Andy and Barb Wiltshire planted their first crop in 1998 in the Wairau Valley. Now the company’s been recognised by a panel of expert judges who praised the product as being “consistently brilliant.”

Blenheim’s Amphitheatre has been underwater for weeks.

Photo: William Woodworth.

Simply the Breast time for cancer survivors

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

Marlborough Breast cancer survivors have been making waves at an international dragon boat festival, after teaming up with new friends.

The Simply the Breast team joined 2275 other athletes at Lake Karapiro in Cambridge last week for the Participatory Dragon Boat Festival.

And after joining forces with a Canadian crew Knot Abreast, the Marlborough team have returned with a personal best time – and lots of great memories.

Competing under the combined name of Knot Simply the Breast, the new team spent just an hour on the water together prior to the competition.

Simply The Breast member Margaret Hockey says finishing 49th out of 74 teams in the 500m was a great achievement.

“Considering we had 13 crew while other teams had 18 or 20, beating our best time by 2 seconds was a huge win for us.

“The organising committee also told us we were one of the most impressive teams on the water, which was a huge point of pride, considering we only had an hour of training as a joint team.”

The International Breast Cancer Paddling Committee has organised the Participatory Dragon Boating Festival every four years since 2005. Dragon boating has been proven to reduce the incidence of lymphedema as per the research of Dr Don McKenzie in 1995.

This year’s event was “phenomenally uplifting”, says sweep Margaret Hockey.

“Just being there as part of the event was phenomenally uplift-

ing - seeing all the smiling faces and comradery shown.”

However, the real battle for some competitors was being a part of the regatta, bringing medical help with them in some cases, she says.

Kiwi barbeque … sung a few waiata, made poi, gifted them specially made team uniform and introduced them to Marmite - and they brought us plenty of Canadian goodies in return.

mentally and physically being with a group of like-minded people,” expands Bridget.

“A personal highlight was the New Zealand team’s brunch on the Wednesday before the event” says team member Becs Sidaway

“One person from each team had

to get up and share their story and I stood up in front of 300 people to share my cancer journey and held myself together – I had people saying how well I spoke for the rest of the regatta”.

A very poignant moment for all the teams was the flower ceremony after racing finished.

“It’s to remember all those who had gone before us, sing a few songs together, and throw flowers in the water in remembrance” says Bridget.

The next season starts in September with four regattas across the South Island, ending with nationals in Cambridge next April.

“We don’t have a huge team here so we’re always looking for new paddlers, sweep steerers and drummers to enable us to take part in more regattas” says Bridget.

“We welcome newcomers of all ages and ability to join in the fun, camaraderie, friendship and support, a team sport can offer”.

To join the Simply the Breast team, contact Bridget at stbdragons@ gmail.com or 0275757504

“Seeing athletes in Stage 4 cancer and the support from their teams helping them in and out of boats, with their doctors but still taking part.

“It doesn’t matter how sick they were, being on the start line was their victory.”

Chair Bridget Ennals says they made some great friends and hope to meet up with the Canadians again in four years’ time.

“We cooked the Canadians a

“It was a great experience being part of 2275 women doing what they love to do - after every race walking off the water after racing and having a tunnel of high-fives to walk through was so cool, but tough on sore arms after paddling though!”

“Breast cancer diagnosis used to mean ‘no vacuum cleaning, no housework, no sweeping’ – now it’s ‘do what you can’ because exercise is medicine and it’s so good

action

A comedy show of two nations

Renowned New Zealand-based Irish comedian Alan McElroy is set to bring some laughs to the Top of the South.

The acclaimed Booze and CraicA Night of Irish & Scottish Comedy tour will be making it’s first stop in Blenheim at 5Tapped on May 6.

And Alan hopes his first show in Blenheim will prove less revealing than his last time in the South Island.

“Last time I brought the show to the top of the South Island, I wasn’t aware I booked the accom-

modation at a nudist camp until we turned up – we got to see far more crack than even we expected,” he says.

Alan has recruited a cast of Irish and Scottish comedians to join him, with former Scottish Comedian of the Year finalist and Edinburgh Fringe Festival veteran Samantha Hannah signed up.

‘Queenstown’s resident craic dealer’ Shane Mulvey, and up and coming comedians Sean Tinker and David Stuart will also take to the spotlight.

“It will be the first time the tour crosses the hill to Blenheim, but it won’t be my first time as I’ve

done a few charity and private gigs down here”, says Alan. “Blenheim knows how to have a great time – it’s the only place I’ve witnessed a thrilling late-night pedal to the metal race through the streets on motorised wheelchairs!

“I had to expand the tour this time around because it keeps selling out wherever we go – our last time in Nelson was a phenomenal gig and Blenheim was a must do. “There’s five incredible international storytellers and they’re a hell of a good time. We can’t wait to swap some cracking stories with you all.”

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

Simply the Breast crew members Sonya Fuldseth, Margaret Hockey, Becs Sidaway, Bridget Ennals, Mary Adams and Donna Booth. Photo: William Woodworth.

“It doesn’t matter how sick they were, being on the start line was their victory.”

Knot Simply the Breast in

at Lake Karapiro. Photo: Supplied.

New Zealand-based Irish comedian Alan McElroy will be in Blenheim next month.

Photo: Supplied.

1. Carter Smith and Linda Brady

2. Frank and Charlotte Benkwitz

3. Grant Reid and Bev McIntyre

4. Jed, Kylie, Abbie and Gray Cornelius

5. Katherine and Rob Daly with Gabby Liddle

6. Lily Della Porta, Claude View and Silver Moonlight

7. Reuben, Rachel, Kyle and Bryn Marfell

8. Sachi Rathad and Anuj Kain

9. Sarah and Jacob Tavave with Anne Healy

10. Steve, Shannyn and Cressida Mitchell

Marlborough Farmers Market

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CHATS TO LOCALS AND ASKS...

building on Buick St have been described as ugly – do you agree?”

Letters to the editor

Readers have their say on local news

FIX FOR FLOODED RIVER ON THE WAY

Well, let’s see which end they start at.

To be honest, yes – I don’t like the brick or the layout. It could easily be adapted to be better looking.

No, I’d happily live in one. There’s too much whining when we need new houses and there’s far more important things to be worrying aboutbeggars can’t be choosers.

Gaeline Cairns

Utterly ridiculous and no excuse…should have cut the weeds back in Oct/Nov. The machine was out of action, and they used breeding as an excuse. Happy to use tax dollars to create memorials to their office but not to address the situation.

Yllek Nomis

Can’t be doing the wooden walkway any good, will be rotting away.

Tina Bate

That’s what I’ve been thinking. Don’t worry … our rates will pay to fix the neglect.

Tracy Webster

Pretty bad it’s been left like this for so long.

Dawn Davies

What a mess!

Lyn McKay

No they’re not that bad –they’re much better than being homeless and I’d put one on my property’s back section.

Yes. They do look better with the trees but still not pretty. I’d live in one though.

MANY HANDS MAKE LIGHT WORK: SHELVES MOSTLY EMPTY AS LIBRARY SHIFT NEARS

“Looking forward to that. When I think back to my childhood, the Library was part of the council offices in Alfred Street I think. I spent many happy hours there, as often as I was allowed. To have a new purpose-built building after years of make do is going to make an exciting future for us bookworm. I’ve got a cupboard full, might need a few more before Sunday.

Cherie Lochead

The cool thing is when we return our borrows this time it will be to the new library

Glenda Ann Barnes

WAITOHI BOOK PLACE IN RUGBY FINAL

Awesome game! Can’t wait to see the Magpies grow. Each game they are becoming stronger and stronger!!

Donna Will Tupouto’a

Got an issue you want to get off your chest or something that deserves a well done, let us know.

To write your letter to the editior email paula@topsouthmedia.co.nz or drop it into our office at 52 Scott Street, Blenheim.

“The proposed duplex

The Next Generation

Established by Lindsay and Kay Thomason in 1996, Lynfords Furniture has been synonymous with helping to create beautiful homes across the whole top of the south region for many years.

Much more than just a furniture store, Lynfords also provide customisation of furniture, including NZ-made lounge suites and hardwood furniture, Home Interior Design consultations, customised curtains and blinds, and provide a great selection of beds.

Originally based in Blenheim, the intergenerational business opened their Nelson store in 2010. Son Hamish Greenwood has been involved for twenty

years, managing the business for the last five, so stepping into the ownership role last year seemed a natural progression. “Hamish has learnt first-hand all aspects of the business as he started out as delivery driver and warehouse manager, before stepping into sales and management roles,” says Mel Greenwood, Hamish’s wife and the accounts and marketing manager of Lynfords.

“We officially bought the business outright last year, but it was in the pipeline for a lot longer. We always understood Kay and Lindsay would have other plans at some stage and it was a challenge that we were keen to take on.”

The importance of having good staff and working as a team is something that stands out as a

key learning for the couple. “We can’t reiterate enough how much we value our amazing staff. Working with fantastic, down to earth and fun people, makes it a great place to work and a great experience for customers. Bringing new suppliers on board, extending lines from existing suppliers, and hunting down new products is all in a day’s work for Hamish. “For us, it’s about building on what we of-

fer. Our connection with a great group of suppliers gives us the ability to bring in many different types and styles of furniture, both NZ-made and imported, to cater for a range of budgets. We’re certainly not just about high-end ranges, which seemed to be a common misconception over the years. Some true ‘old school values and processes’ have attributed to the success and longevity of Lyn-

fords. “We care. We go the extra mile to make sure customers have a good experience, like taking items home to try on Appro. We unpack, assemble and check furniture before we deliver it into people’s homes – no flat packs on your door. Kay has kept the tradition of giving away free shopping bags made from beautiful, discontinued fabric samples, so no waste there! Between Kay and her late mum, they have made

for

Hamish and Mel Greenwood are thrilled to be the next generation of owners of Lynfords and looking forward to what the future holds. Photo: Supplied.

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED FAMILY BUSINESS

and given away over 4000 thousand bags! We have some amazing loyal customers that keep returning over the years because we are honest about our products, prices and our opinions, and we listen to our customer’s needs so that they leave with something they’re really going to love for years to come.”

It is great to see people getting fantastic furniture for every stage of life, says Mel, from new homeowners, and growing families, right through to retirees. “There is amazing furniture out

craftsmanship of NZ-made sofas from the likes of Kovacs, Danske Mobler, Montreux or Pace – it’s just incredible what can be created! Our staff get excited by the beautiful new fabrics that are regularly released, they love helping create unique pieces for our customers.”

Along with the highlights of seeing the business grow and become part of the local community, the team have also faced their fair share of challenges along the way, but having Lindsay pass away hit the tight-knit family hard. “When someone passes away it’s pretty tough going in any normal circumstance. With Lindsay, he was a key member in

a relatively small family business where his wife, son, stepson and daughter-in-law all work together, so it was especially difficult. We were incredibly fortunate to have supportive staff and the support of the community during such a tough time.” While proud of their heritage, Hamish and Mel look forward to continuing to build the business. Launching a recent rebrand is a key part of the company evolving, says the couple.

“We are really proud of the business and the direction it’s heading. We’ve updated our look but we’ll continue to focus on our core values of quality products and excellent customer service.

To survive for so long as a business you need the support of your community, which is something we really appreciate. In return we like to support community fundraisers and events when we can.”

“We’re proud of being locally owned and operated and that we still have family working on both sides of the hill. Lindsay’s son Shaun is the Store Manager in Nelson and has over a decade of experience in the business. His daughter Seren is the first ‘third generation’ family member to join the team. Having Kay on board still and being in business for almost 30 years gives us a lot of experience in this industry.”

The Lynfords Nelson team, from left, Bob Boodee, Barry McCann, Thalia Richardson and store manager Shaun Thomason. Photos: Matt Brown.

The Lynfords Blenheim team, from left, Wendy Lefebre, Kim Morgan, Mel and Hamish Greenwood and Kay Thomason.

Find us in-store at Lynfords Furniture

Proud to supply Lynfords with our beautiful range of fabrics

Stunning fabrics for stunning furniture at Lynfords!

Proud to support Hamish & Mel at Lynfords

In celebration, Lynfords Furniture are promoting an incredible giveaway during the month of May. Simply spend over $1000 at any of their stores in May and go into the draw to win a gorgeous Winston Chair!”

TO SUPPORT

AND MEL AND THE TEAM AT LYNFORDS

NETBALL

Netballers prepare for season

It is back to the future for Marlborough’s premier netball fraternity this season.

Once again six teams will battle for supremacy in the region’s top club competition, after just four sides filled premier ranks in 2022. The return to a half dozen sides will add variety and depth to a competition that became rather routine last year, meaning three matches will be played each Tuesday evening at Stadium 2000. Involved in premier play this year will be two teams from both the Harlequins and Pelorus clubs, plus sides from Tokomaru and Marlborough Girls’ College.

Harlequins

Harlequins Indevin, the 2022 champions, will field a well-balanced combination, buoyed by such stalwarts as ever-energetic midcourter Bridget Gane, shooters Lauren Murray and Kelsee

Powell, versatile livewire Wiri Bristowe, defender Mackenzie Baird, plus middies Maighan Watson and Sophie Robinson. Fiaali’i Solomona, a standout with MGC over the past two seasons, is a notable addition, adding stability and shooting power at the attacking end, along with former Toko player Ramona Waikato.

Harlequins Fairweathers are a predominantly youthful squad, many coming up from grade one last season, plus a couple of new faces.

Joining the club from Cairns, Australia is Kirsty Boase. The former rep player brings experience to the defensive group where she will team up with Kaya Walsh and Jorja Bacchus. The midcourt duties will be han-

dled by Zara Jopson, Bianca Bean Oliver, Phebe Allen and Marguerite Hood.

Aston Underwood’s height and elevation, teamed with Sophie Ridley-Scott’s calmness in the circle offer plenty of attacking possibilities.

Harlequins Indevin: Bridget

Gane, Lauren Murray, Ramona

Waikato, Fiaali’i Solomona, Kayla Collins, Kelsee Powell, Mackenzie Baird, Maighan Watson, Sophie Robinson, Wendy Trolove, Wiri Bristowe. Coach: Olivia Robinson.

Harlequins Fairweathers: Kirsty

Boase, Kaya Walsh, Jorja Bacchus, Zara Jopson, Bianca Oliver, Phebe Allen, Marguerite Hood, Aston Underwood, Sophie Ridley-Scott. Coaches Lesley Wilson, Grace Rodger.

MGC

There has been plenty of change in the MGC ranks, with just three regular premier players from last season returning.

Midcourter Delyth James-Sitters, the versatile Hazel Glover and defender Izzy Tupouto’a are back as the college side welcomes an influx of younger talent.

The team’s defensive end will see Tupouto’a combine with the energetic and skilled Poppy-Jo Lane, plus the athletic Brooke Harper. The midcourt will see James-Sit-

Tokomaru centre Shannon McManaway.

MGC’s Delyth James-Sitters

NETBALL

NETBALL

ters teaming up with the dynamic Paige O’Brien, Ella Sowman and rising talent Liz Pousima. Shooters Emily Flynn and Anel Moli may be new to premier but are an established combination. Glover will also provide flair and energy in a fluid attacking end. The team is versatile, fast and athletic and is expected to bring plenty of spirit to their games.

Marlborough Girls’ College

Liquid Action: Delyth JamesSitters, Izzy Tupouto’a, Hazel Glover, Emily Flynn, Poppy-Jo Lane, Anel Moli, Paige O’Brien, Ella Sowman, Brooke Harper, Elizabeth Pousima. Coach: Bek Scherp.

Pelorus

Pelorus will also field two premier sides, one who will train regularly, the other made up of players, many of whom have vast experience, who will participate on a more casual basis. Despite that, there is enough talent and depth in both Pelorus sides to make them very dangerous propositions.

Their Pelorus Edridge Contracting side, last year’s beaten finalists, will rely on the shooting prowess of Paige Lovell, coupled with the courtcraft of middies Jordy Peipi, Laura Evans and Brittney Lyons. Kelly West is an

experienced hand, as is accomplished defender Danelle Moffat.

After a very successful time in grade one last year the Pelorus Gill Construction side has talent aplenty and will be a constant threat, despite not training together. Cara Gallop, Karli Murphy, Kate Gaudin, Bonnie Morris, Kelsie Fitzpatrick, Katie Bradley and Anna Thomas are seasoned performers, offering versatility and big match temperament.

Pelorus Edridge Contracting: Paige Lovell, Megan Cosgrove, Kelly West, Ella Smith, Laura Evans, Jordy Peipi, Brittney Lyons, Ana Horncastle, Danelle Moffat. Coaches: Laura Evans, Courtney Taufa.

Pelorus Gill Construction: Cara Gallop, Karli Murphy, Kate Gaudin, Anna McDermid, Bonnie Morris, Kelsie Fitzpatrick, Michelle MacDonald, Katie Bradley, Anna Thomas, Liv Pinkerton, Charlene Wills. Coach Cara Gallop, manager Tracey Moanaroa.

Tokomaru

It is all change at the Pictonbased club this season, with just one player from last year’s premier squad returning.

Shannon McManaway was part of the 2022 squad, and is back, along with shooter Gemma Hika, who played a few games towards

the end of a difficult season. Gone this year are such stalwarts as Hana and Kayla Wilson, plus Geneva Hoggard. Gemma, Ayla Looms, Chloe Devir, Hayley Turoa, Jade Shallcrass and Tamara Acott were part of the Tokomaru grade one side last year and step up together. What the side lacks in terms of premier experience they will no doubt make up for in spirit and youthful energy.

Tokomaru: Ayla Looms, Chloe Devir, Gemma Hika, Hayley Turoa, Jade Shallcrass, Mahina Henry-Campbell, Naomi Brownlee, Paige Smith, Shannon McManaway, Tamara Acott. Coach:

Vanessa Hika.

The New World premier grade competition begins on Tuesday, May 2 and will be played over three rounds, followed by semifinals and a final. There will be promotion/relegation this season. The other senior grades, along with Year 7-8 and Year 5-6 players, begin on May 6. Future Ferns open their season on May 5. Teams will have a chance to stretch their legs and hone their combinations in the Preseason Tournament, scheduled for Lansdowne Park on Sunday, April 29. Umpiring workshops will be held on May 22, June 26 and July 24.

2023 Season Dates:

Tournaments:

Pre-season Tournament (Blenheim): April 29

Geraldine Hodgson (Nelson): April 1

Top of the south U16, U18 & Senior: June 11

Tupuranga Champs U16: June 3-5

Christchurch U18: June 3-5

Wellington U16: June 18

Wellington Dale Wortman U18: June 25

SISS: July 3-5

Celebration Box U18 Hamilton: July 10-13

South Island Masters: October 14-15

The victorious Harlequins premier side in 2022.

Pelorus attacker Paige Lovell prepares to shoot.

Abbey’s off to the US

A radical change to her throwing technique has paid off twofold for rising javelin star Abbey Moody.

Last year the former Marlborough Girls’ College athlete launched the sleek missile over 50 metres, a personal best effort and the fifth longest throw ever by a Kiwi. And her potential has not gone unnoticed. Now ranked second overall in the country, the 19-year-old recently accepted a four-year track and field scholarship to the prestigious Stanford University, near San Francisco, alma mater of such sporting greats as golfer Tiger Woods, tennis player John McEnroe and swimmer Katie Ledecky. Abbey’s potential quickly became obvious at MGC, where she excelled in both athletics and water polo.

It was the aquatic sport which prompted a move to Rangi Ruru Girls’ School for her final two years of college education, her water polo coach being based in Christchurch.

Although Abbey’s prowess in the pool earned her a place in the New Zealand youth water polo squad and selection for the 2022 Youth World Championships, her days spent training in the water were coming to an end as the effort of juggling two time-consuming sports took its toll.

By the end of 2022 she had decided to concentrate on track and field, having earlier in the year won the under-20 javelin title and finished third in the U20 discus at the national champs.

A change in coach at the start of 2022 also paid dividends as she began to find greater distance with the javelin. Timaru-based Adam Blake made some major alterations to Abbey’s throwing technique and she quickly raised her personal best from 38m to 46m.

In June, 2022 she travelled to Australia for the Oceania champs where she launched her longest-ever throw, sending the spear soaring out to 50.42m, placing her among the finest half dozen throwers this country has produced.

Of the current crop of javelin ex-

ponents only national champion Tori Peeters, 28, is ahead of her, having set a NZ record of 62.40m in 2022.

At the 2023 nationals in March Abbey repeat her placings in the U20 javelin and discus, and was second to Peeters in the open javelin.

Abbey acknowledges that there is still a lot of distance to make up if she is to close the gap on Peeters, who finished fifth at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, but has high hopes she can do so.

“She is 10 years older than me,” said Abbey, “so I have time on my side.”

She pointed to consistency of training, speed, fitness and constant tweaks to her technique as ways to improve her distance as she sets off for the Stanford experience.

The initial approach to the high-profile US College was made by Abbey’s coach, who has plenty of American contacts, and she quickly warmed to the idea.

“I had thought about going to the States but it wasn’t until I met Adam that I realised it was an option for me. We were both talking

to coaches last year in the States, then I went through the application process with Stanford.

“They let me know I had been accepted in October. The throws coach called me early … she actually woke me up and I wasn’t quite with it. Then I thought, this is either very good or very bad. When she said ‘you are in’ I couldn’t really believe it because [Stanford] is such a dream school … it was sort of surreal at the time.”

The Stanford track team is highly-rated, having bagged 132 NCAA titles over the years, and attracts top athletes from all over the planet. The world under-20 women’s discus champion from Sweden will join the team the same time as Abbey, expected to be around mid-September.

“There will be some pressure, and quite a few nerves,” said Abbey, who has never been to the USA before.

Although she won’t know anyone at Stanford, she has been in contact via the internet with other members of the track team and has struck up some friendships, albeit remote at this stage. There is no hesitation when Ab-

bey is asked if she sees a future for herself in track and field. “Oh definitely,” she said. “The Comm Games and Olympics are definitely on my radar … the 2028 Olympics would be the goal.” Given they will be staged in Los Angeles, not too distant from Stanford, Abbey is perfectly placed to take her throwing skills to another level.

Abbey Moody has accepted a four-year scholarship to Stanford University to further her sporting career. Photos: Peter Jones.

PETER JONES

Abbey during a recent training session at Athletic Park.

World champs beckon for local triathlete

Triathlete Ryan Marfell is on a roll in 2023.

Taller, stronger, fitter and much-improved in the water this year, a couple of stunning results nationally have earned the Marlborough Boys’ College Year 13 student a trip to Germany. He will travel to Hamburg in July as part of the New Zealand team to compete at the World Triathlon Age Group Champs, an opportunity he describes as the “undoubted high point” of his five-year multisport journey. Ryan produced a couple of standout performances in late March, which earned him national selection. Firstly, he travelled north to the Taranaki Tri Festival in New Plymouth, winning the under-19 age group and placing fifth overall.

“[The result] was a bit of a surprise,” said Ryan. “I came out of the water good and caught up with the chase pack on the bike. I got on the back and just rode with them until the run. We all ended up together, but they just had a stronger run than me … I was happy with fifth overall though, especially since I was up against much-older and more experienced triathletes.”

Just four days later, he was back in the South Island, racing at the

finish.

“I was happy with that,” he said, “although I definitely wouldn’t have minded a longer break and a bit more energy.”

Earlier in the season Ryan had put his name forward for possible selection to the NZ team at the World Champs and his podium placings saw him selected, an email from Triathlon NZ arriving soon after the Wanaka event.

“I was excited, ecstatic, stoked,” he said. “It has always been my dream to represent New Zealand at the world champs. Especially at this event, which is classed as one of the world’s biggest triathlon races.”

Ryan previously pulled on the black tri suit at the Oceania champs in Taupo but described the impending world champs was “next level”.

The world championship course comprises a 750m swim, 20km bike leg and 5km run, distances Ryan is familiar with and looking forward to testing himself over, especially as he has made big improvements in a discipline he had previously struggled in.

“My swimming has been my weak point … I used to come in around the middle or further back in the pack and then I would have to work my way through the field on the bike and run them down.

go to a world champs.”

To that end he is training hard, especially on swimming and running, the two disciplines he says “you can’t hide on”.

Currently he is completing nine lengthy training sessions per week, three on each discipline, with a view to producing his best

in Hamburg.

“My goal would be to try and make top 20,” he said, “but it all depends who shows up on the day. We are not sure what is going to happen … but it is a chance to gain some valuable experience and show Tri NZ what I am capable of,” he added.

Ryan Marfell, centre, on the under-19 podium at the Taranaki Tri Festival.

Photo: Supplied.

Blues to tackle Tohis in rugby final

PETER JONES

A mouth-watering Marlborough Sub-Union final is in prospect

after Waitohi booked a date with defending champions Central in the title decider.

On Saturday, the Tohis produced an irresistible second half effort at Awarua Park to see off a gallant Magpies outfit in what was a virtual semifinal, Central having clinched a final spot with previous wins over both sides.

Despite the 36-11 scoreline, this was no walk in the park for the Tohis. They led just 15-11 at halftime, having weathered a Moutere storm for much of the first spell.

The home side dominated field position but too often spurned chances to establish a meaningful lead when they had the chance.

After goalkickers Corey Bovey (Waitohi) and Jake Pacey (Moutere) traded early penalties, the Magpies opened the try scoring through first five/halfback Ben Finau.

However, five minutes later Waitohi centre Sio Moa touched down to level the scores, Bovey’s

conversion pushing them ahead. The visitors moved out to 15-8 just before the break with an unconverted try to skipper Taine Cragg-Love, then Pacey closed the gap once more with a penalty on the stoke of halftime. However, that was to be the end of the scoring for the home side, Waitohi adding three second half

tries, all converted by Bovey, to seal the deal.

The energetic Cragg-Love completed a well-deserved hat-trick with two touchdowns on the back of close-range lineout drives, while fullback Patrick SmithKerr scored the other.

Along with their inspirational captain, No 8 Campbell Hart,

lock Dylan Burns and hooker Toby McLeod were the pick of the Tohis forwards while halfback Bray Taumoefolau, on his premier debut, Bovey, Moa and Gannon Karena excelled out wide.

Prop Max Morris, loosie Atu Taufa and No 8 Charles Tupouto’a put in strong shifts for the

Magpies pack, while Finau, midfielder Pacey and winger Senetenari Ponesi stood out behind the scrum.

The MRU sub-union final will be played on Saturday, April 29, at Lansdowne Park.

Scores: Waitohi 36 (Taine CraggLove 3, Patrick Smith-Kerr, Sio Moa tries, Bovey 4 con, pen) Moutere 11 (Ben Finau try, Jake Pacey 2 pen). HT: 15-11. Nelson premier results: Kahurangi 36 Nelson 19; Stoke 29 Waimea Old Boys 10. Meanwhile, the Marlborough division two competition saw a couple of upsets, with Central being beaten 24-20 by Marlborough Boys’ College Old Boys on Lansdowne Park 1 and Awatere going down to Harlequins 31-17 in Seddon. The other match was played in Havelock, Renwick’s ‘Mud Dogs’ overcoming Pelorus 29-3.

The Wairau Wāhine women’s side played their second competition game over the hill, going down 47-22 to Waimea Old Boys at Jubilee Park. In the other match Kahurangi downed Marist 21-19 to remain unbeaten.

Buccaneers progress to main Chatham Cup draw

Central Buccaneers sailed into the first round of NZ Football’s Chatham Cup competition with a comprehensive victory over Wakefield at A&P Park on Saturday.

The Buccaneers downed their Nelson-based rivals 6-0 in the

nationwide competition’s preliminary round to earn a place in the main draw.

Wakefield, a Nelson division two side, began strongly, testing Central’s resolve before an own goal after 25 minutes put the home side ahead and proved a turning point. Midfielder Jono Masters scored Central’s second soon af-

ter, then the prolific Ben Shallcrass put them ahead 3-0 at the break.

The Buccaneers added another three goals after halftime, Joel Collingwood and Thom Hall getting on the scoresheet, before striker Shallcrass topped off a player-of-the-day performance with his second.

Jono said the final scoreline flattered his side somewhat, Wakefield making them work hard for their success. He had special praise for the Buccaneers’ back four of Tom Morley, Freddie Kennedy, Jake Arnesen and Jacob Boon who ensured keeper Liam Kennedy had a quiet afternoon. Buccaneers have made a strong start to the season, scoring 13 goals and conceding none. They beat BV Masters 5-0 on the previous Saturday, then accounted for clubmates Central Wolves 2-0 in a midweek Marlborough division one fixture.

Jono, who described his side as “well rounded and a solid unit” said they expected to be drawn against a Nelson side in the first round, probably Suburbs or FC Nelson.

There was disappointment for

Rangers AFC on Saturday, their Nelson division one match scheduled for A&P Park not going ahead after their opponents, FC Nelson Locomotive defaulted.

Rangers’ player/coach Tore Waechter said his side had been looking forward to getting in some invaluable match fitness in the early stages of what is expected to be a testing schedule.

In division one action, just two games were played, the Central

clubs having met midweek. Call Care Trojans defeated Picton Wildcats 3-0 while BV Masters beat Rangers Woodbourne by the same score.

Four games were played in division two, Rangers City defeating Call Care Red 3-1, Rangers Masters beating Trojans Marlb Men 5-1, Call Care Spartans downing Picton Crow Tavern 3-2 and Central Privateers getting the better of Rangers Reserves 3-1.

Waitohi skipper Taine Cragg-Love was a ball of energy at Awarua Park, both on attack and defence.

Photo Peter Jones.

Ben Shallcrass scored a brace of goals for Central in their Chatham Cup match. Photos: Peter Jones.

Central Privateers’ player Zawenuca Tanga whips in a cross during his side’s division two win over Rangers Reserves.

PETER JONES

MBC First XV keen to ‘hit the ground running’

PETER JONES

With kick off in the 2023 Miles Toyota Championship just three weeks away, the Marlborough Boys’ College First XV are taking all the opportunities they can to get in some valuable match practice.

On Tuesday they hosted Marist College from Canberra, who are on a NZ tour, as one of a series of pre-season games designed to hone combinations and skills before the Falcons’ campaign kicks off in earnest on May 12.

Head coach Tonga Taumoefolau said the annual First XV competition had been revamped for 2023, the number of round-robin matches to be played reduced from 13 to nine. The competition has been split into premiership and championship sections, with 10 teams participating in each. Promotion/relegation will take place at the end of the season.

With their season shortened, the MBC management felt it was important to get in as many pre-season games as they could.

So far they have had a run out against Waimea College, the Prebbleton under-20 side, plus the Aussie visitors, who they narrowly lost to 27-18.

“With a shorter season we decided to put in an extra pre-season game so we are hitting the ground running when we start our campaign,” he explained.

MBC play Christ’s College in Kaikoura, then Rangiora in their final warm-up encounters.

Tonga has a much-changed side to work with this year, but sees plenty of positives in that.

“We have only got eight players coming back from last season, so this is a total rebuild year for us. We have a lot of young, enthusiastic players coming through which is awesome and adds to the exciting environment at First XV level.”

Their first MTC match is a home match against Shirley on May 12, followed by another home fixture, against St Andrew’s on May 20. Their other home dates are against Christ’s (June 17) and Christchurch BHS (July 22).

MBC play away matches against traditional rivals Nelson College, St Thomas of Canterbury, St Bede’s College, Selwyn Combined plus Timaru Boys’ High School away before the finals in late July.

The 2023 MBC First XV squad: Tafa Asiata-Tusani, Jack Burdon, Will Flynn, Jake Gane, Jordyn Gardiner, Ben Gibbons, Thomas Large, Te Kore Manawatu, Luke Martella, Finn McKenzie, Toby McLay-Davis, Finn Neal, Rico Nicklin, Vancouver Sio, Ben Sziranyi, John Vakaloa, Carter Aitken, Axell Allan, Ben Blackmore, Harry King, Leo Marfell, Joshua McLeod, Koloa Moala-Fotu, Ata Obetaia, Tim Petrie, Hugh Robinson, Cohen Stewart. Coaches: Tonga Taumoefolau, Pete Flynn, Tui Raeli. Strength and conditioning coach Buxton Popoali’I. Managers: Jared Morris and Matt Large.

Antony Clark

Paul O’Donnell

Richie Marsden

Rod Thompson

Terry Duff

Simon Muir Matt Ryan

Peter Jones

Greg Somerville

Jayden MacDonald

Brad Taylor

Glenn Kirby

David Sutherland

Michael Winkler

Terry Renner

Chris Goodyer

Mike Newman

Jamie Norton

Rob Hellstrom

Susan Barron

Warren Cairns

MBC First XV winger Leo Marfell on his way to scoring MBC’s second try on Tuesday afternoon. Photo: Peter Jones.

MARLBOROUGH’S COMMUNITY NOTICES

PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY

MARLBOROUGH’S HOME OF ENTERTAINMENT • THE LATEST BLOCKBUSTERS • SNACK BAR • FAMILY MOVIE DEALS

MONDAY

WITHERLEA INDOOR BOWLING CLUB Mon 7pm, Redwoodtown Community Hall. All welcome, no age limits. Only gear needed is soft sole shoes. Ph Moira 027 4808272 or Heather 0273106675.

RUMMY-0 CLUB Mon 12.30-4pm Bowls club rooms, Weld St. Ph Joy 577 6191/Mary 5788747

BLENHEIM BEGINNER LINE DANCE CLASSES Mon

2-3pm and Mon 6-7pm. First lesson free, then $6 per lesson after that. Senior Citizen’s Hall, 172 High St. Ph Judith 5787554 or 0212341095

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, 7-9pm. Wed 9am-12pm. Sat 9am-12pm.

Wooden toys & projects. 1st Sun monthly 1-4pm. Brayshaw Park. Ph Philip 5705188.

CARE & SHARE A place for creatives to meet, encourage & share their skills. Mon 9.30am fortnightly. Barnies, Nativity (76 Alfred St). Ph 5783909 for more info.

ROTARY CLUBS in Blenheim, meet Mon & Tues 5.30pm. World-wide service club for men & women, doing great things in your community. For info on meeting venues. Ph Blenheim Club Secretary Andy Rowe 021842928. Blenheim South Club Secretary Dean Heiford 0212462642.

TUESDAY

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. Ph Donna – Eldercare Coordinator 0273852333 for more information.

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

SUNBELT TOASTMASTERS Learn public speaking & improve your confidence. Tues 6.20pm Fortnightly. St Mary’s Community Centre. Ph 0276001788 or email sunbeltblenheim@gmail.com

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 & 3rd Tues mornings. Ph Tina 0211045945.

MARLBOROUGH TENNIS CLUB Parker St. Tues 8.30-

12pm. Social tennis. Morning tea 10am. Non-members

$5. All welcome. Ph Joanna 0275786436

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

BLENHEIM CHORAL (Marlborough Singers) Tues, 7pm, Wesley Centre, Henry St. New members welcome, no auditions necessary. www.marlboroughsingers.org.

BLENHEIM AIR TRAINING CORP Tues 6.30-9pm RN-

ZAF Base Woodbourne. Recruiting new cadets aged between 13 & 15 for 2023. 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 10am, Picton library. Bring your knitting to the library for this social catch-up.

PICTON TABLE TENNIS for adults Tues 10am-12noon. Little Theatre, Picton. $4 per session. Meet people & get some exercise. Morning tea provided. New members welcome. Ph Ernest 0275888453.

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

PICTON LINE DANCING Tue 9.30-11.30am, Anglican Church hall. $6 per class. Beginners welcome. Enquires to Carol 0212125252 or Raewyn 021715484.

WEDNESDAY

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL Every Wed 7.30pm. Blenheim Bowling Club, 65 Weld St. Come along & enjoy yourself! Ph Erin 027 234 1709.

GROVETOWN INDOOR BOWLS Wed 7pm at Wesley Foundry. All bowlers welcome. Ph Morris 5786699.

RAPAURA INDOOR BOWLS CLUB Wed 7.30pm.

Rapaura Hall. New members welcome. Ph Sue 021661717 BLENHEIM PROBUS CLUB Retired/semi-retired? Enjoy good fellowship? We’d love to see you at our meetings.

1st Wed of the month. 10am. Wesley Centre. Coffee mornings & outings as well. Ph Ann 5787046 / Jan 0226353919.

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

STRETCH & BREATHE Gentle stretching & Balance class for Seniors. Every Wed 10-11am. Followed by a cuppa & chat. Cost $2. St Christophers Church Hall, 92 Weld St. Ph Donna – Eldercare Coordinator 027385 2333 for more information.

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

HEART HELP SUPPORT Community group dedicated to the well-being of those who live with a heart condition or experienced a heart attack. Offering support to whanau. Meet 3rd Wed of the month, 10am, Quench Chateau Marlborough, 95 High St. Ph Jenny Goss 0211629102.

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

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.

DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP Meets every Wed 1011.30am to support each other, have regular speakers, outings, share in a safe environment. Ph Alistair Crawford for details 0272 883 032.

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

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

LIONS’ CLUB OF BLENHEIM Serving the community for over fifty years. Would you like to know more about the Lion’s club or are interested in becoming a Lion. Tea meetings held 2nd & 4th Wed. Ph Delphine Lee 0299425004 or Helen Williams 0211458572.

WAITOHI SOCIAL CLUB. We meet at 10am at the Picton Library, every third Wed of the month for fun & friendship. Gold coin donation for morning tea. After meeting we go for lunch at one of the venues in Picton, should you wish to join us.

THURSDAY

PICTON BRIDGE CLUB Every Thurs 6.50pm Port Marlborough Pavilion. All levels welcome. Beginner lessons start 24th Apr. Ph Judy 021685348.

KEEP U MOVING Gentle indoor walking exercise for Seniors. 11.30am-12.30pm each Thurs except the 4th Thurs of the month. Followed by a cuppa & chat. Cost $2. St Christophers Church Hall, 92 Weld St. Ph Donna – Eldercare Coordinator 027385 2333 for more information.

INVITING YOU TO COMPANIONS for ages 65+, 1st Thurs of Month. 1pm. Harvest Life Church, 22 Nelson St. It’s free, so no strings attached & there’s YUMMY afternoon tea. We have an interesting programme throughout the year. For more info ph Avon 035792440/ Lorraine 035781240/Shirley 035783728.

OLDER PERSONS SEMINAR Thurs 27th Apr. St Christopher’s Church Hall, 10am-1pm. Speakers: Janette Simmons & Shirley Hawtin. Entertainment. Morning tea & a light lunch provided. Cost $5. Ph Donna - Eldercare Coordinator 0273852333 for more information.

COPD SUPPORT & EXERCISE GROUP Free. Every 2nd & 4th Thurs 1.15pm. Redwoodtown Community Hall, Cnr Weld & Cleghorn St. For more info ph: Asthma Marlb 0272057244.

SOCIAL BADMINTON Thurs morning 9-12noon Simcox Stadium Batty’s Rd. $5. All adults welcome. Ph Cathy 021 503 348

PICTON TABLE TENNIS Thurs 10am-12pm, Port Marlborough Pavilion, Waikawa Rd. All adults welcome. $4

incl. morning tea. Equipment supplied. Ph Ernest 0275 888 453.

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

KNIT & NATTER will commence on Thurs 25th May at the new Marlb District Library. For info ph Sue 5785317.

FRIDAY

NATIVITY TUNES FOR TOTS Music, food & fun for pre-schoolers & caregivers. Fri 9.30am. Wesley Centre, 3 Henry St. During term time. Ph 5783909 for more info.

PICTON NEWCOMERS NETWORK ‘SUNDOWNERS’

5-6pm at Café Cortado on the waterfront. New to town? Need help to settle in? Interested in local activities? We can help! Ph Cathy (Coordinator) 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

FREE EVENT Join Marlb bike riders during Dutch week.

10am Sun 30th April at the Vines Village, Rapaura Rd. Dress up yourself & your bike in orange for great spot prizes. Everyone welcome. Distance approx 7km. Ph 035705900 or email Dutchbikeweek@gmail.com

RENWICK SOCIAL TENNIS Every Sat, 2-4pm weather permitting. Members $2 Visitors $5. 10 Uxbridge St (behind the Bowling Club) Ph Leigh Andrews 0211913034 or visit our Facebook Page for more details & other upcoming events.

SUNDAY WORKING BEE – TE WHANAU HOU GROVETOWN LAGOON Every 2nd Sun of the month. 14th May, 11th Jun, 9th Jul, 13th Aug, 10th Sep, 8th Oct & 12th Nov. Meet at Wairau Rowing Club, Steam Wharf Rd, Grovetown. 9:30am to 12pm, followed by a BBQ. We plant trees, tend previously planted trees, weeding, mulching & any jobs for continued conservation. E: Justine Johnson Johnsonmarlborough@gmail.com

BAHÁ’Í DEVOTIONS 1st & 3rd Sun, 10.30-11.15am, Marlborough Community Centre, 25 Alfred St, 12th Lane, Blenheim cnr Farmers carpark. “In the garden of thy Heart plant naught but the rose of love”. www.bahai.org.

THE ROADHOUSE BREAKFAST for car enthusiasts of all genres. 1st Sun of month, Riverlands Roadhouse, coffee cart on site, cafe has great food. 100+ cars at each of first two events.

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

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

MARLBOROUGH MUSEUM at Brayshaw Park, open 10am-4pm. Maori treasures, Wairau Bar 1250 AD, The Wine Exhibition, Early settlers, Asian Dolls, 1870 to 1970 Fashion, local pottery plus more! FREE entry on Saturdays.

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

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

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

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

duce & products.

REDWOOD MARKET Redwood Tavern car park, Cleghorn St. 8am-noon every Sat. 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 Sunday & the school holiday’s, subject to weather.

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

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

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

MARLBOROUGH ASSOCIATED MODELLERS SOCIETY miniature train rides, $2, 1st & 3rd Sun of month, model yacht & boat sailing Sun, 1pm-4pm, Brayshaw Park. CRUISEY CHURCH for kids of all ages & their families. Includes bible stories, games, songs, crafts & dinner. 3rd Sat each month 5-6.30pm. St Andrew’s Church, 5 Henry St, Blenheim. Koha appreciated.

KETO SUPPORT GROUP meets Sat fortnightly (approx. 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.

REPAIR CAFÉ We’ll fix your small repair on site. On the day, while you wait & have a cuppa. Sewing, darning, bikes, small furniture, wooden items, toys, electronics & mobile phones. 9am-12noon, 27th May, (every 4th Sat of the month). John’s Kitchen, 2 Redwood St. Donations accepted.

GENERAL GROUPS

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS Thurs & Sat 7-8pm. Riversdale Community House, 131 Budge St. BLENHEIM ROWING CLUB Rowing on the Wairau River from the boatshed at 259 Jones Rd, Grovetown. Every Sun from 8.45am. Tues & Thurs from 4.45pm. Novice & experienced rowers welcome, any age. Learn to Row programme. Full details at blenheimrowing.co.nz or contact 027487622.

WEEKLY STEADY AS YOU GO CLASSES Mon 10.3011.30am The Foundry, John St. Tues 1.30– 2.30pm, Union Parish, 40 Broadway, Picton. (2 doors down from Police Station). Tues 11.30am-12.30 St Christophers Hall, Redwoodtown. Wed 1.30-2.30pm, Marlborough Community Centre, 25 Alfred St, Blenheim. For more information call the Age Concern office 5793457. Cost Blenheim $2 per class. Picton $3 per class.

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

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

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

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

SENIORNET MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS Linkwater Hall, Queen Charlotte Drive. Our tutors are available for people 50+ who need assistance with their computer or smart phone. Contact Secretary Ian Cameron (03) 574 2558 to arrange.

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

MARLBOROUGH TRAMPING CLUB A very active club. Mid-week & Sunday trips, plus overnight & extended trips. Find info at http://www.marlboroughtrampingclub.co.nz or marlboroughtrampingclub@gmail.com

Ko ngā kōrero mā tēnei tūrangi | About the role

Do you enjoy working in a team and relate well to a wide range of people? We are seeking positive, enthusiastic individuals to assist in providing excellent customer service to our local community and Council staff. The Customer Service Officer role has variety and includes a mixture of in-person, phone and electronic interaction; therefore you must be confident in these areas.

We have two vacancies (one full time and one part time) that we are looking to fill. If you are interested in a part time role, then please note your preferred hours in your cover letter. Our normal business hours are between 8.00am and 5.00pm (Mon to Fri).

Ko ngā pūmanawa ōu | About you

You will need to be a team player, be adaptable, resilient, and a quick learner. You will need to be able to multi-task, problem solve and use initiative without compromising on quality on a daily basis.

Customer Service Officers at Council need to be friendly, knowledgeable, and courteous. You will require excellent listening skills, enthusiasm to assist with a wide range of customer queries and a level of local knowledge is preferred. You will also need great interpersonal skills and be computer literate.

Ko ngā āhuatanga pai | What we offer

A workplace that supports flexibility, health and wellbeing.

• An environment where input, initiative and innovation are encouraged.

• An hourly rate of pay of up to $27.21 (this will depend on the knowledge, skills and experience you have to offer).

• A great benefits package (including Health Insurance, Income Protection and Life Insurance, 5% Superannuation, 5 weeks annual leave).

If you’re ready to progress your career with Te Kaunihera ā-rohe o Wairau - tono mai | apply now! Applications close 5.00pm on 27 April 2022. Applications should be made online via the careers page www.marlborough.govt.nz/yourcouncil/careers/current-vacancies where you will find full information on the vacancy and how to apply.

For further information (or for a copy of the Job Description) you are welcome to contact Jane Robertson (Customer Service Team Leader) on jane.robertson@marlborough.govt.nz

www.marlborough.govt.nz

WE ARE NUMBER 1

*As per the latest npa audit http://npa.co.nz/ newspaper-advertising/circulation-bureau/

Parker VineQuip Ltd specialises in the service and repair of all types of mobile vineyard machinery and strive to provide excellent workmanship and custom solutions for our valued customers.

The successful applicant will:

• Have a positive attitude and outlook.

• Have can-do approach to the task at hand.

• Be honest, reliable and well organized.

• Have solid mechanical, technical and diagnostic skills.

• Have an open mind to new viticulture technologies

• Interact well with customers and other employees.

• Be able to work unsupervised and be self motivated.

• Electrical, hydraulic or engineering experience would be advantageous.

In this full-time position you will play a key part in the ongoing maintenance and repair of a wide range of vineyard mobile machinery. Viticulture industry experience isn’t a necessity. Previous trade skills and a willingness to learn is all you need.

Please contact Eddie via phone 0272555278 or email eddie@parkervinequip.co.nz for more information.

Optical Assistant/Receptionist

We’re looking for the perfect person to join our busy team working Monday to Thursday.

If you have excellent customer service skills, are keen to learn and want to be part of a fun team, we’d like to hear from you.

You do require strong administration skills, an eye for style and great attention to detail.

Please apply by sending a cover letter and your CV to sarah.brown@matthews.co.nz.

MARLBOROUGH DISTRICT COUNCIL Customer Service Officer

Viticulture Diesel Mechanic / Mechanical Engineer

Marlborough Weekly is proud to be the largest independent newspaper in Marlborough, delivering 19,838 papers each week*.

Have a go! Indoor Bowls

OPEN DAY

Thursday 1pm 27th April

Simcox Stadium Battys Road

New players welcome Coaching provided Ph. 579 2574

Nelson College Boarding Roadshow with Director of Boarding Tim Middleton.

Friday 28 April 5-6pm

Encounter Kaikoura

Upstairs Mee�ng Room, Kaikoura

Saturday 29 April 2-3pm Yealands Awatere Memorial Hall, Seddon

Sunday 30 April 11-12pm

St Ninian’s Presbyterian Church Hall, Blenheim

Register your interest at nelson.school.nz

NOT GETTING YOUR DELIVERY?

Attention all Advertisers – Terms of Trade: By placing your advertisement you agree with the terms and conditions of the Marlborough Weekly Ltd. Namely, payment by the 20th of the following month. In the event of non payment interest will be charged on all debts 90days + overdue, 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/.

Proud to be Marlborough’s only premium lifestyle magazine dedicated to our region, with 6000 copies distributed throughout Marlborough and Kaikoura at various cafes, retail & commercial businesses, and public services a copy is never far away!

• Countdown Redwoodtown • Countdown Blenheim

• New World Blenheim • Farmlands Westwood

• Mitre 10 Mega Blenheim

• Subway Stadium 2000

• Seddon Supermarket • Super Value Renwick

• Sweet Crea�ons

• Haven Café • Velvet Café • Vines Village

• Picton Mariners Mall • Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferries

• Interislander Ferry Terminal • TSM Marlborough office

52 Scott St, Blenheim | topsouthmedia.co.nz

Building Construction Specialists

“Sam has started to make good progress in school and is able to be calm to do the work - and politely interacts with other kids.” She also noted it has been great in terms of having a positive role model in their Kiwi Can Leader and in their life.

Sam describes Kiwi Can by saying, “It makes you stronger and builds your confidence, and convinces you you’re not worthless. It has helped me get through rough times that might have ruined me had I not gotten to go, to see how to overcome things and bounce back.” Sam is just one of the thousands of children and young people supported by the Graeme Dingle Foundation Marlborough. But, Kelvin says, it takes a village. “We can only do this work because of the incredible support of our local sponsors and the Marlborough community. Unfortunately, there’s no

magic pot of money from the government – each year we are reliant on the generous support of our community. Thank you doesn’t begin to express the depth of our gratitude! Every child we have been able to help, like Sam, that’s all thanks to you Marlborough! And we’d love to be there for every young person that needs us.”

Sam says “I have learnt things from Kiwi Can that will stay with me for life. They are very important things that I think every kid needs to learn.” Our children need to learn skills and strategies to develop into resilient people who can cope and thrive amongst this ongoing evolution and disruption, says Kelvin. “They need to learn how to work together, understand other perspectives, collaborate for mutual success, and how to bounce back from setbacks. Our programmes support the development of these skills and values, so our youth are able to overcome the

challenges they will inevitably face in life. We want every Marlborough child to know what they have inside is greater than any obstacle.”

Top South Media Marlborough have joined forces with some of their amazing clients to donate $2,500 to support Graeme Dingle Foundation Marlborough’s work with local young people. They presented a donation certificate to the team, on behalf of local businesses who kindly contributed. The Foundation also acknowledges the ongoing support of their incredible ‘family of sponsors’.

The five Foundation programmes: The Kiwi Can programme builds lifelong skills, positive relationships and qualities such as integrity, respect and

OUR SPONSORS

resilience amongst primary schoolaged children.

Stars Teina prepares the Year 7 and 8 students to make an effective and confident transition to college and reduces anxiety.

Stars is a peer mentoring programme helping college students build trusting relationships, enabling them to reach out to each other in times of need.

Career Navigator is a unique mentoring programme which connects college students with local industry, career pathways and eye-opening opportunities.

Toroa Career Navigator is an intensive programme for 15–24-year-olds in Marlborough who are not currently in work or training - but keen to be!

TSM Marlborough manager Leigh Somerville presents a donation certificate to the Graeme Dingle Foundation team on behalf of local businesses who kindly contributed to the final total. Photo: Supplied.

Kiwi Can Leader Daniel Brunel high fives some Kiwi Can students at Whitney Street School.