Marlborough Weekly 11 July 2023

Top performers

Tech stars

Paddling NZ

A deeper pool of lifeguards for Stadium 2000 facility

WILLIAM WOODWORTH william@topsouthmedia.co.nz

For the first time in three years, Blenheim’s Stadium 2000 has removed its lifeguard job vacancy while recommencing full operations after months of limited opening hours.

The complex will have the addition of six new lifeguards to the roster who are finishing training shortly, alongside four prospective staffing additions to the aquarobics and swim teaching staff in the training pipeline.

Following a Marlborough Weekly article and subsequent word-ofmouth community assistance, Stadium 2000 team has been able to remove their lifeguard vacancy for the first time since before the COVID-19 pandemic – and General Manager Bridget Taylor couldn’t be happier with the new additions to her team.

“We’re delighted as so often community services get cut with the hope of returning to normal but

never do, so it’s awesome we can return to our fully operational, ‘centre of activity for all’ self.”

“The enthusiasm and passion we’ve seen from our new staff to get started has been great – we’re glad to have such incredibly strong candidates be keen to join our team.”

“It’s so great to have new blood in the staff to train the next generation of lifeguards, and having people that see the health and fitness industry as a career path rather than just a job”, agrees Health and Fitness manager Ricky White.

New recruit Veronica Hardman has been really encouraged by her first few weeks in the role and is eager to see Marlburians using the facilities to their fullest.

“I wanted a role connected to my exercise science degree, and the Stadium is a real asset to the local community. Training our CPR and water rescues with floating spinal boards has been really interesting for me, but I’m keen to

get fully underway.”

Bridget is very thankful to the community for their help with recruitment for their new staff and

is very encouraged by the engagement Marlburians have with their local facilities.

“We’d like to acknowledge every-

one’s support and confidence whilst we navigated our way through tough times – especially our existing hard-working staff.”

Stadium 2000 Health and Fitness Manager Ricky White, General Manager Bridget Taylor and new lifeguard recruit Veronica Hardman. Photo: William Woodworth.

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Paddling with a purpose

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

Marlborough’s dragon boating community are challenging themselves and the community to paddle around New Zealand in a fundraising bid for local mental health organisations.

The Simply the Breast dragon boat team will spend July 13 and 14 paddling and rowing ergs in an attempt to cover the 4500km distance of New Zealand’s coastline, and they’re encouraging the community to take part.

The marathon effort at Myspace is very close to heart for members of the Simply the Breast team, with team secretary Dana Goodwin and coach Jude Goodall leading the efforts to benefit local youth.

“We’re always looking for ways to stay fit and look after our mental health throughout the paddling off season – showing our support for at risk young people was suggested by our regional association, and the support just exploded from there,” says Jude.

“Losing just one young person is too many for a small, tight knit town like Blenheim, but losing six young people since the start of the year is a major issue, and we want to help address however we can.

“After all of the support that we get from Marlburians, we thought the least we can do is show Marlborough’s young peo-

ple that there is support from all sections of the community in a space dedicated for young people”.

The Simply the Breast team encourage individuals, sports teams and businesses to head along and contribute to the kilometre counter however they can. The entire team will be on the machines at some point with

four members hoping to get the team off to a hot start.

“We’re happy to lead the efforts, but this is a real opportunity to actively show that you or your business are behind Marlborough’s young people that are going through tough times”, says chairperson Bridget Ennals.

“It’s easy to say you want to help, but people don’t necessarily follow that up with action. This is all about getting as many locals as possible to participate and contribute a bit of sweat to the cause.”

“Either come along after work Thursday or join us after celebrating Matariki morning for a bit of exercise to kick off the long weekend.”

The Simply the Breast team have also set up a Givealittle page, so those unable to attend are can also contribute to the fundraising effort with all funds going to I AM HOPE Foundation.

https://givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/dragon-boating-for-mentalhealth

Getting blood from a zone

PAULA HULBURT

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A blood donation service in Blenheim has been ruled out by the New Zealand Blood Service. The organisation currently has no plans to build a permanent donor centre in the Marlborough region.

And while service bosses have revealed a mobile service could become a reality in the future, time constraints make it a no-go for now.

A spokesperson from NZBS says Blenheim has been considered for a donor centre but logistics and the smaller population make it too tricky.

“That said, we would certainly love to hold a mobile blood drive in Blenheim and have explored several options to see if we can make this happen.

“Unfortunately, it is currently unfeasible as there is no suitable direct flight from Blenheim to Christchurch.

“The lack of a suitable direct flight between Blenheim and Christchurch poses a potential risk for us not being able to get collected blood to processing in time.”

At present, blood donors at the top of the South Island are serviced by a mobile blood drive in Nelson that is held twice a year.

NZBS is the sole provider of all blood and blood products to hospitals around New Zealand, including Wairau Hospital.

The organisation celebrates 25 years this month, helping to save or improve 540,000 lives.

More than 610,000 people have donated during the service’s lifetime, with the current number of active donors sitting at around 117,000 people.

While New Zealand needs more than 5,000 donations every week to meet demand, Blenheim’s location means transporting donations isn’t possible.

“Donated blood needs to be pro-

cessed within 12 hours of the first needle being removed.

“We have investigated the option of using one of the smaller airline providers (nine to 12-seater planes) that fly between Blenheim and Christchurch.

“However, these smaller flights do not move freight routinely and would require seats to be removed, making this a non-viable option to transport the blood.”

Transporting blood to Nelson has also been ruled out as there is some risk over flights heading to Christchurch being hit by delays.

“As a result, this would not give our team enough time to collect their daily target for this region, which would be 200 donations across three days to make the blood drive viable,” the spokesperson says.

The Wellington processing centre is already at capacity.

“NZBS wants to ensure as many

eligible people as possible have access to donating blood because we have big collection targets to meet.

“We constantly review our mobile blood drive destinations, and hope there will be opportunities in future for people who reside in areas that we don’t currently visit to give blood closer to home.

“We appreciate there are people in Blenheim who are willing and able to donate.

“They would be welcome to give blood at any of our donor centres in Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Palmerston North, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin if they’re ever visiting those cities or at another location where we’re hosting a mobile drive.

Mobile locations and dates can be found easily by downloading the NZ Blood Service Donor App or by visiting https://www. nzblood.co.nz/booking

Simply the Breast members Bridget Ennals, Jude Goodall, Margaret Hockey and Kim Nicholls love the support they get for their team and are eager to give back support to young Marlburians.

Photo: William Woodworth.

Plastic fantastic as recycling scheme returns

PAULA HULBURT

Soft plastic recycling is returning to the region – with local waste set to be given a new lease of life as fence posts.

Five years after the initiative had to be scrapped, the Soft Plastic Recycling Scheme (SPRS) is back, with bins already up in collection points across Blenheim.

The move means plastics such as bread bags, bubble wrap, plastic wrappers of products such as biscuits and chips can all be recycled.

All the soft plastic in the region will be collected and baled by JBL Environmental, and processed locally at Future Post’s new Blenheim plant, which is due to open later this month.

The Packaging Forum (operator of the Soft Plastic Recycling SchemeSPRS) CEO Rob Langford says that after five years away, it is an exciting move.

“We have been working on restarting collections in the region for some time, and the upcoming opening of Future Post’s new plant has helped this happen.

“Future Post expanding into the South Island has meant an increase in its production capabilities, and therefore we have been able to add more collection points.”

Timber swindlers

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

The scheme was first launched in 2015 but was forced to end in December 2018 when offshore plants processing New Zealand’s plastic no longer wanted it.

“All of Blenheim’s soft plastic will be collected and processed locally, and then recycled into fence posts which will more than likely end up on local farms and vineyards and the posts themselves are 100 per cent recyclable if they need to be replaced.”

Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor says the reintroduction of soft plastic recycling in the Marlborough District is exciting, and more so because the plastic collected will be recycled locally.

“It’s great to see the soft plastic recycling bins back in stores across the district, and even better that the plastic collected here will be processed, and recycled into other products, right here in Blenheim – an excellent example of our local businesses working together to reduce our collective impact on the environment.”

The distinctive recycling bins can be found at five locations–Countdown Blenheim, Countdown Redwoodtown, The Warehouse Blenheim and New World Blenheim, as well as the Marlborough Hazardous Waste Centre.

Catching an alleged thief on camera, members of a Blenheim community group were relieved they had paid for an expensive CCTV system.

Blenheim Menzshed reported the theft of donated wood to police after capturing images and video of the crime, as well as the alleged thieves number plate.

But members now fear they have wasted their money after police came back to them saying there wasn’t enough evidence to prosecute.

Menzshed chairperson Dave Oliver was first to check the cameras and walked down to the police station to give a statement.

“After the last time we had this, we put in the cameras, but we’re not sure if the money on our security systems is worth it when we have all of the proof you’d think you’d need but nothing happens. We also sent in all the details we could find and the best images from the footage to the police including the car and registration, but we didn’t manage to get a clear picture of the woman.”

The 1.45am haul on the Thursday June 22 saw seven pieces of

donated walnut swiped from outside the Dillion’s Point Road centre.

Dave says he thought the wood would be safe for one night as the area was under surveillance.

“When I came in the next day to put it away and saw the cameras, we were shocked.”

Menzshed members examined the footage for details on the thieves including finding the vehicle’s registration plates. He then contacted the 105 non-emergency number to give extra details to police. But police emailed the next morning saying that there was insufficient evidence to support

a prosecution.

After the Marlborough Weekly enquired about the theft to the police, a spokesperson says the newer evidence was now being considered.

“Unfortunately, the officer who was looking after the case had not been advised of the additional CCTV footage that the victim submitted via the crime reporting line,” the spokesperson says. “Now he is aware, he will be reviewing it to see if there is anything which will assist in identifying the offender/s. The officer will also be getting in touch with the victim directly”.

Blenheim Menzshed chairperson Dave Oliver is concerned the organisation has wasted money on CCTV.

Photo: William Woodworth.

Taking a punt

John wriggles slightly on the stool he’s been sat on almost solidly since 11am. It’s 2pm, his lower back niggles and his neck is stiff. His gaze is fixed on the flashing screen in front of him as colours whirl, his hand poised in readiness as he hits the play button on the machine hard, again and again and again.

The machines nearby are all occupied as hopeful punters feed money into the ever-hungry slots to a backdrop of noise and music.

But in the room off to the side of a Blenheim bar where the pokie machines sit, there is little small talk and no laughter. Gambling is a serious business.

Today has not been a lucky one for John, he explains, but he’s sure a win is due.

“I’ve been on this machine for a while. It’s due to give out any time,” he explains.

Playing the pokies for much of his life, John was 17 years old when he started. His dad had been a keen player too, he says.

“I remember watching him when I was a kid. It was exciting and he got some big wins.

“He’d sometimes let me press the button for him.”

Peeling another note from his wallet, John explains how he tries to budget for the pokies. It is a past time he enjoys and to him, it’s no different from playing golf, for example.

“I could be spending my money on beer or old cars, but I get more of a buzz from this. I don’t always win but I do make enough, it all balances out.

‘It’s a hobby really and one I’m quite good at.”

John mainly plays at one pub in town, where he knows and likes the staff, he says. He catches up

with some of the other regulars while he has a break from the machines, enjoying a drink, a laugh and a bite to eat.

“That side of it is very social but when I’m playing, I like to concentrate.

“Most people know to leave me

which ones have been played on and might give out.

“It usually pays off for me, put it that way,” he says with a smile but is coy about how much he has won, or lost, over the years.

“This isn’t just about the money for me, it’s about the fun and if I do win then that’s a bonus.

“I know that people do get addicted but that’s not me. I know when I’ve had enough.

WHERE TO GET HELP

Gambling Helpline - Pasifika 24/7 support by phone, email, web and text for those worried about gambling or the gambling of others. Phone 0800 654 657.

Asian Family Services

alone when I’m on,” he says. While John does sometime dabble on the horses and dogs, the pokies are his go-to gambling option. Smaller bets can mean big results, he explains.

“It’s a waiting game, you have to be patient. You have to be able to read the machines a bit and watch

“I don’t think it makes a difference how many machines there are as those that want to play will.”

The machine spins again, whirling itself into a blur as John watches with an almost detached air. The numbers and pictures come to a stop and it’s not a win.

“Ah, well, you can’t win them all,” John says, feeding more money into the machine.

Asian Family Services provides professional and confidential face-to-face or telephone counselling support and social worker support to all Asians living in New Zealand. Open 9.00am to 5.00pm. Phone 0800 862 342.

PGF Services

PGF Services (formerly Problem Gambling Foundation) provides free, professional and confidential gambling counselling services for both gamblers and others affected by gambling. Open 8.30am to 5.00pm. Phone 0800 664 262.

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As Marlborough District Council looks for public opinion on gambling as part of their review on Gambling Venue Policy, Paula Hulburt talks to a pokie player to find out what the attraction is. To protect his privacy, John is a pseudonym.

“It’s a waiting game, you have to be patient.”

Gambling machines under spotlight as profits rise

PAULA HULBURT

A surprise rise in gaming machine profits means pokie machines in Marlborough may be cut.

The impact of gambling on the community is being considered by council as staff begin consultation on its proposed Gambling Venue Policy

The move comes as the latest figures show that while there has been a significant drop in the number of pokie machines, gaming machine profits have increased.

Licensing Inspector Georgia Murrin says while the draft policy had been prepared in consultation with those who have an interest in the proposed review, the Council wants to hear from all members of the community.

“As a result, Council believes the current policy requires changes and is proposing to adopt a sinking lid policy to ensure the numbers of venues and gaming machines is

A sinking lid policy means that once a class 4 gambling venue closes, the council will not issue any other society a licence to replace that venue.

“Council also recommends that if two or more clubs were to merge the total number of gaming machines allowed is reduced from 30 to 18 machines,” Georgia says.

Recent statistics show that while there was a 40 per cent decrease in venues and 33.7 per cent decrease in gaming machines in Marlborough between March 2015 and December 2022, gaming machine profits have increased by 33 per cent in the same period.

Other options outlined in the Gambling Policy Review Statement of Proposal include capping the number of gaming machines to 165 or rolling over the current 2020 policy but amending the wording to allow for the new Racing Industry Act 2020. The social impacts of gambling will also come under scrutiny, Georgia says.

“As part of this review Coun-

cil must consider the social impacts of gambling on our community. That’s why it’s important that people let us know what they think,” she says.

“The level of reported harm through problem gambling referrals remains low. However anecdotal evidence from the community indicates that there may be harm occurring

success

Staff at OneFortyOne’s Kaituna Sawmill have plenty to celebrate after being awarded a top industry prize.

The Marlborough-based sawmill won the Fibre Producer Award at the prestigious 2023 Primary Industries New Zealand Awards in Wellington last week.

Collecting the award, General Manager of Kaituna SawmillTracy Goss, says the recognition was an honour for the whole team.

“To the entire Kaituna Sawmill and OneFortyOne Forestry team, you are all deserving of this award, you make it happen, I appreciate all the support.

“This award represents a bigger picture of who we are, what we do, why we do it, and where we are going and let it remain a constant reminder that with good safety, environment management, quality control and employee engagement, comes unbelievable achievements.”

as a result of ‘Class 4’ gambling venue pokie machines.” Consultation opens on Monday 10 July and closes on Tuesday 8 August 2023. To have your say go to: www.marlborough.govt.nz/your-council/ have-your-say-consultations

Once the submission period closes, hearings will be held if people want to speak in support of their submission.

Tracy thanked FMG for sponsoring the category and MPI and Federated Farmers for creating and hosting the event and paid tribute to the staff at OneFortyOne.

Winners were revealed from 65 nominations across nine award categories.

Judges were impressed with what they say is OneFortyOne’s “relentless drive” for improvement.

They also emphasised the company’s commitment to adding value by using their own fibre to power their kilns, dropping the sawmill’s greenhouse gas emissions by nearly half in the last decade.

Marlborough District Council are looking for public feedback on gambling as part of their three-year review.

Photo: NZ Herald.

Tech Start Up Q&A

The past weekend saw Marlborough’s entrepreneurs collaborate, compete and complete a business startup in 54 hours at the Techstarts Startup Weekend. Marlborough Weekly reporter William Woodworth spoke the judges, Tracy Atkin, Stephanie Benseman and Devon Marshall, about their experiences with startup businesses and lessons for business owners and prospective startups.

Why did you get involved as a judge for the Techstars Startup Weekend?

Tracy

I’ve always been passionate about making a difference, and using my business skills to help others. I’m privileged to have a job where I work with entrepreneurs to help them grow successful businesses, it’s inspiring to be part of their journey. I also believe you get back as much as you give, there is always something to learn from others.

Stephanie I love seeing the startup ecosystem develop in this region. Techstars Startup Weekend has been one initiative that’s played a big part in inspiring lots of residents to give their ideas a go, this in itself makes me really happy to be involved.

Devon

A few years ago I got involved in the business trust then last year I went along to the start up weekend presentation. This year they approached me and said, ‘do you want to be a judge for this start up weekend’ and I’m like yep.

What benefits does being based in Marlborough have for startups?

Tracy I’ve lived in London, Auckland and my home-town Wellington, but Marlborough has the most business support. We have a community spirit here with wraparound support and guidance which you often don’t find in big

cities, accessible business organisations, and a huge breadth of talent and experience flying under the radar.

I’m part of Business Mentors NZ and Business Trust Marlborough as well as on the board of Angel Investors Marlborough (AIM), one of the most active start-up investment groups in NZ that’s invested over $25m into over 60 companies in the last 5 years, mostly in NZ start-ups.

The Marlborough District Council’s Economic Development Team and Chamber of Commerce provides fantastic opportunities like the Regional Business Partners program, events like Techstars, start-up ‘mixer’ evenings, and our new Innovation Hub.

Stephanie We have some world leading industries based right here, if you’re building a startup that solves problems for the viticulture sector or aquaculture industry you have some of the best customers

just down the road. The hustle culture of startups is fading. Being a founder is no 9-5 gig, you are doing your life’s work and that means the journey needs to be sustainable. What better place for a work-life balance than Marlborough!

Devon

In Marlborough there are heaps of opportunities and support for starting a new business whether it be food or clothes you’ve got a good chance to succeed.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learnt through your own business?

Tracy

Know your blind-spots, and get help to fill those gaps. The earlier you get business mentoring and support the better your chance of success, so don’t be afraid to ask for help, and be prepared to accept you can’t do it all.

Stephanie

I don’t currently own a business but work with hundreds of start-

ups and founders every year, and the biggest lesson would be to surround yourself with good people. From your team, customers, to advisors or investors, you need to find a group who’s inspired by the mission you’re on and is there to support the journey because it’s really not an easy one but super rewarding and fun.

Devon

Fill your life with work and take some time off. Another lesson I’ve learnt is to balance money input and output. You need to have a high enough profit margin to spend money on growing your business and enough to spend it on yourself but then it needs to be low enough to get sales.

Do you have any tips for people keen to start their startup journey?

Tracy

Firstly, love what you do. Being passionate about your business will get you through the tough times, and your passion will help

you attract the right people to your business, but tempered with reality - be really clear on the problem you’re trying to solve.

Ask yourself “Am I solving a big problem or is this just a nice-tohave?’ or ‘painkiller versus vitamin’ - the bigger the problem you’re solving, the bigger the painkiller, the bigger the chance of success.

Stephanie

The advice I’ve received myself is “just start.” You’d be surprised what support you’ll find when you begin sharing what you’re working on. From there it’s important to solve a real problem and not get too held up on the idea of your solution because that will definitely change.

Devon

Don’t expect to go big right away, take your time. Look at profit margins and competition, as you don’t want to do something someone else already is and having support and expert advice is essential.

Third time’s a charm for Howell

WILLIAM WOODWORTH

After two failed campaigns for the Marlborough Young Viticulturist of the Year crown, Indevin’s Zac Howell has qualified for 2023’s national finals.

A frosty start became a stunning winter’s day at Giesen’s Stump Creek Road Vineyard on Thursday, where the eight contestants were put through their paces by experienced viticulturists.

The contestants had to show their skillset through a thorough day of examination on their practical and theoretical knowledge on pruning, irrigation, machinery, pests and diseases, budgeting, nutrition, and trellising - as well

as an interview and their public speaking at the awards dinner at the Marlborough Convention Centre.

Judges kept a close eye on techniques in the lunchtime BioStart Hortisports race that drew a large crowd to cheer on the competitors, which Zac was victorious in.

“It was evident Zac had put in a lot of hard work and preparation for the competition which really paid off.  Zac is a bright, ambitious Young Vit with an exciting career in viticulture head of him,” says national co-ordinator Nicki Grandorge.

“It was great to see some new faces in the competition this year and know that we have more am-

bitious Young Vits entering the NZ wine industry.  They all did themselves proud.”

Alongside the contestant’s speeches on wine industry related topics, dinner attendees were also treated to a talk from the inspiring George Glover - who organises events to raise funds for mental health charities as well as helping normalize the conversation around mental health.

“We’re incredibly happy with how the day has gone despite the frosty start, but I’m sure the contestants are used to those conditions,” says organiser David Bullivant.

“There’s plenty of skill and promise across the field, so Marlborough’s viticultural industry is in

safe hands going forward”.

Sam will be travelling to the Hawke’s Bay at the end of August

to take on fellow champions from Auckland, Hawke’s Bay, North Canterbury and Central Otago.

Congratulations also go to second placed Laura Hammond from Cloudy Bay and Delegat’s Liv Bishop who came third, and their fellow competitors Harry Panesar, Aaron Hood, Gordon Browne, Josh Anderson and Henrietta Steele.

Zac also won the Ecotrellis section prizes, taking home a Fruitfed Supplies Educational Trip and AEG power tools. Laura won $750 cash and an NZSVO Educational Experience, Liv won $500 cash and the Ormond Professional Reputation Award went to Josh Anderson.

Stephanie Benseman.

Tracy Atkin.

Devon Marshall.

Sam Howell. Photo: Supplied.

on Council’s Gambling Venue Policy

Do you have a view on the number of pokie machines and TAB venues in Marlborough?

Consultation on its proposed Gambling Venue Policy is now open and Council wants your feedback.

Licensing Inspector Georgia Murrin said while the draft policy had been prepared in consultation with those who have an interest in the proposed review, the Council wants to hear from all members of the community.

“As part of this review Council must consider the social impacts of gambling on our community. That’s why it’s important that people let us know what they think,” she said. Recent statistics show that while there was a 40 per cent decrease in venues and 33.7 per cent decrease in gaming machines in Marlborough between March 2015 and December 2022, gaming machine profits increased by 33 per cent in the same period.

“The level of reported harm through problem gambling referrals remains low. However anecdotal evidence from the community indicates that there may be harm occurring as a result of ‘Class 4’ gambling venue pokie machines,” Ms Murrin said.

“As a result Council believes the current policy requires changes and is proposing to adopt a sinking lid policy to ensure the numbers of venues and gaming machines is managed

effectively to represent the current numbers,” she said. “Council also recommends that if two or more clubs were to merge the total number of gaming machines allowed is reduced from 30 to 18 machines. The TAB Venue Policy will also be updated to reflect the new Racing Industry Act legislation, and align with the new format of the Gambling Venue Policy.” Other options outlined in the Gambling Policy Review Statement of Proposal include capping the number of gaming machines to 165 or rolling over the current 2020 policy but amending the wording to allow for the new Racing Industry Act 2020.

Council's Gambling Venue Policy provides guidance for both Class 4 gambling venues and stand-alone board venues (TABs). Council’s Class 4 Gambling Venue Policy and a Board Venue Policy is a requirement under the Gambling Act 2003 and the Racing Act 2003.

Consultation closes on Tuesday 8 August 2023. To have your say go to: www.marlborough.govt.nz/your-council/have-yoursay-consultations

Once the submission period closes, hearings will be held if people want to speak in support of their submission.

Work underway on Dublin Street overbridge

Work on Picton’s Dublin Street overbridge is underway.

To enable this work to be carried out safely, Dublin Street will operate at one lane with single direction traffic running east to west between Auckland and Kent Streets until August.

The first part of the work involves the relocation of pipes to prepare the site for the main construction work that will follow.

From 1 August Dublin Street will be closed to traffic and pedestrians for approximately 20 months while the overbridge is constructed. During this time, for safety reasons Broadway will also close to through traffic.

Once complete the Dublin Street overbridge will create a key

connection for the town allowing vehicles, walkers and cyclists to move safely and easily between the town centre and port area. It has been carefully designed to feature a dedicated lane for pedestrians and cyclists, with urban design and greenery reflecting the cultural story and landscape of Waitohi Picton. This is all part of the redevelopment of the new terminal to accommodate Interislander’s two new purpose-built ferries, and create a welcoming gateway for Waitohi Picton. For more information and a map of the 1 August traffic detour plan go to: www.irex.co.nz

A cuppaWITH YOUR COUNCILLORS

Marlborough District Council’s Sounds-based councillors are available for a drop-in chat each month from 20 July.

Come along to the Waitohi Whare Mātauranga/Picton Library and Service Centre on a Thursday each month, from 10.00 am until midday.

The councillors can provide advice and information and help with Council-related issues.

Councillors Barbara Faulls, Raylene Innes and Ben Minehan are Sounds Ward councillors. Allanah Burgess is the Māori Ward councillor for Marlborough and based in Picton.

WHERE: Picton Library and Service Centre

WHEN: 10.00 am to midday on Thursday 20 July; 24 August; 21 September; 26 October and 23 November 2023

A map of the Dublin Street single lane detour that will be in place until 1 August 2023

Councillors Barbara Faulls, Allanah Burgess, Raylene Innes and Ben Minehan

This means most prescriptions will now be free for you to collect.

You may still have to pay to collect some prescription items, for example for medicines prescribed by private specialists and private dentists.

Any family which pays for 20 prescription items in a year is eligible for a Prescription Subsidy Card, which means they won’t have to pay for any more prescription items until 1 February the following year. A family includes a person’s partner and dependent children aged from 14 to 18.

Collecting prescription items for children under 14 is already free.

For more information please visit www.nmhdb.govt.nz/Prescription-Subsidy-Scheme

A positive outlook for Marlborough Business bites

SCORING APP STARTUP CHAMPIONS

The future is looking positive for Marlborough.

The quarterly ASB Regional Scoreboard economic review has Marlborough ranked 4th behind Taranaki, Canterbury and Otago. It is the only region to see annual growth in building consents alongside plenty of upcoming construction projects in the pipeline, stabilising housing prices and a 35 per cent increase in wine export values.

Pete says despite the struggles the national economy may be going through, Marlborough is relatively insulated economically.

“The region is looking positive for the next few years - there will be challenges for Marlborough just like around the world … a lot of businesses are going well and looking to employ more people than last year.

“Marlborough is effectively at total employment, but we have high rates of people not in education, employment, or training - reducing that is a real focus for the Regional Skills Leadership Group and government bodies.

“However, we are just at the start of this recession, and don’t know how it will affect us,” he explains. The Chamber of Commerce and Marlborough District Council are launching their next quarterly business confidence survey. Pete is curious about the results after confident responses last time.

“I think confidence will have gone down from November’s survey from 60 per cent of businesses being optimistic … you see 4th

on the Regional Scoreboard, so it will be fascinating how that’s reflected here.

“There’s classic unease of an election year from both sides of the

job”.

Pete points out large projects powering a strong future in Marlborough’s construction sector are attracting people to the region.

“The biggest challenge is finding staff for those construction jobs because we are short - and then how housing and medical care handle new arrivals”.

Picton is also set to reap the rewards from construction worker spending and the increased capacity for ships for the long term. But it will be a mixed bag in terms of visitor numbers, Pete reckons, as ferry terminal workers fill up hotels and motels, limiting the number of rooms available for tourists.

“However, the new terminal and ferries alongside other investments will bring massive longterm benefits,” he says.

Marlborough, alongside the rest of the South Island, has seen housing prices stay relatively resilient to market pressures.

Pete says a fundamental shortage housing needs to be solved.

But he believes the addition of hundreds of aged care units through Summerset will ease the pressure.

ScoreSync, an app that tracks the lighthearted competitive nature of families or friends, has won Marlborough’s Techstars Startup Weekend. The ‘electronic scorecard for tracking competitive gloaters’ beat out 4 other teams over the 54 hour competition with teams delivering product pitches, business model and product development and even basic prototypes alongside mentoring and constructive advice from local entrepreneurs.

divide worried what happens if their party doesn’t get in which is expected in election year.

“Local economic performance actively drives community vibrancy and makes a tangible difference – wine is 20 per cent of the local economy so great wine harvests like 2022 and 2023 sees new income flows directly into retail and hospitality businesses and when those businesses are doing well, everyone keeps their

“We were the only region to see a rise in building consents, but just the Summerset development drove loads, so you do have to be careful on those numbers”.

“However, five-to-ten year construction projects - the half a billion-dollar Ferry Terminal development, hundreds of millions into Summerset, the Combined Colleges project at $100 million plus – drive the local economy forward”.

“The estimated half of future residents from Marlborough itself means their current residences will be going into the market,” he explains.

“Building that many new residences releases others on to the market and keeps prices sensible, and the ‘crash’ we’re seeing is the market starting to return to where prices should be”.

“It isn’t all doom and gloom, there’s a lot of good things going on in the region and those will be driving our economy for the near future.”

GROW YOUR GOVERNANCE BUSINESS WORKSHOP

Angel Investors Marlborough is working to help Marlborough’s small businesses and start-ups, offering a workshop to boost governance processes. “There is value for founders, managers, directors, and aspiring directors in learning about how growth-focused governance board operate, and how to get the most from your board”, says AIM manager Brian Dawson. Governance for Growth is being held in Blenheim on Tuesday July 25, 10am to 4.30pm$50 plus GST for an individual or $100 plus GST for a booking of three.

Marlborough’s Chamber of Commerce expects a positive 2023 for the region’s businesses. Chief Executive Pete Coldwell talks to William Woodworth about what the next few months might look like.

“The region is looking positive for the next few years - there will be challenges for Marlborough just like around the world…”

Marlborough Chamber of Commerce chief executive Pete Coldwell.

Photo: William Woodworth.

The winning team at the Tech Stars Startup weekend, ScoreSyn. Photo: Supplied.

STREET

CHATS TO LOCALS AND ASKS...

Matariki is being marked with a national holiday on Friday, what does the day mean to you, and do you have any plans to celebrate?

Community comments

HOME AND GARDEN SHOW PHOTOS

SAMMIE’S OPENS

We normally celebrate Matariki with a big family dinner before going up to the Wither Hills and greet the Matariki stars on the first day they’re visible as a bit of a family tradition. Now we have to hope it’s not raining!

I love that it’s fully acknowledged finally and celebrated. I need to do a bit more research into events that are on to commemorate the holiday so we can get involved in those and learn a bit more.

Have to say I realise it must be boring being there for those hours, but vendors with their noses in their phones is a terrible look from a customer point of view. Even if I was interested if you have your nose in your phone, it says you are not interested in me. Two really did miss out due to this.

Lorraine Walker

PRIMARY RUGBY SIDE CLEAN UP

Congratulations everyone, I remember winning in the under 52 about 20 years ago - great feeling, and singing a song on the way back to Blenheim on the bus was pretty cool.

Luke Deane

It was a great week of rugby. All teams were a credit to their Coaches/Manager’s, Unions and whānau. Congratulations on a well-deserved win.

Dee Sturgeon

So awesome, will definitely be in for a Sammie or 3.

Thereasa Hawes

Go Sammies! Sakim Sushi is doing really well in its new spot in the Forum - queues out the door at lunchtime too.

Cathie Bell

Used to eat banh mi in Hawkes Bay every second day, great to see.

Chris Smith

Roast vege & hummus sounds tasty!

Kelly Hocquard

WAIKAWA BAY RIPPAS ON TOP Wahoo well done Waikawa Bay.

Betty Whyte

Awesome work Mr Smith!!

Heather Johnson

Won’t be doing much to celebrate as it doesn’t impact me – will be at work because I’m self-employed and spend a bit of time with the family – but I think it’s great to have.

I know it’s about the starsMāori New Year – and getting together and spending quality time with family so we’ll be doing that.

Well done fellas, just like we did in 1974 or 75 I think it was in the same place as well. Under 14, had to be under 11 stone. Few of us sat on the border line!

Geoff Morgan

All the best Marlborough, such a great tournament.

Maxine Kenny

JUST $49.99 per year

Awesome effort!

Kahlia Hutchison

Well done team.

Denis Borwick

PROUD SUPPORTER OF YOUNG VITICULTURIST OF THE YEAR

CONGRATULATIONS ZAC HOWELL

from Indevin for becoming the 2023 Marlborough Young Viticulturist of the Year and to all the contestants on a great competition

1. Mitchell Mackenzie-Mol, Stacey Montgomery and Richard Barnes.

2. Zac and Mitchell Field.

3. Tracey and Denis Hammond.

4. Lane Spence and James Perrow.

5. David Bullivant and Rhys Hall.

6. Matt Fox and Michael Hearn.

7. Lois Alexander and Catalina Suarez.

8. Kirsty Harkness, Anthony Walsh and Stu Dudley.

9. Steve and Matt Gallup.

10. Simon Hobson and Kaitlyn Dyer.

Winter dining guide

Have you tried out these cafes and eateries around town?

COFFEE + FOOD

Raupo Cafe and Restaurant

Sitting on the banks of the Taylor River in Blenheim in the heart of the Marlborough Wine region. We welcome group dining or our onsite traiteur is stocked daily by our in house pastry chef with a range of sweets, cakes and muffins available to enjoy or paired with a takeaway coffee for those on the run.

Open 8am to 8.30pm EVERY DAY. Takeaway coffees available all day.

6 Symons St, Blenheim 03 577 8822 www.raupocafe.co.nz

LUNCH + DINNER

It’s All Good Brew Blenheim’s coffee specialists. Pour-over, batch brews and espresso. Cabinet food & banter is a bonus. Join owners Michael and Rosemary Boyd at Blenheim’s newest, welcoming coffee bar in town. Rosemary was named the region’s Best Barista in the Love Your Local Awards so trust you’ll be in for a treat!

Open Mon to Fri, 7.15am–4.30pm Market Street, Blenheim

facebook.com/ItsAllGoodBrewNZ

COFFEE + FOOD

LUNCH + DINNER

Thai 9

Come and try our authentic Thai cuisine, dressed in exciting flavours, textures and spies. We provide gluten free meals with options for vegetarian, vegan and keto. Our delicious new menu is available now including desserts and our very own bubble tea drinks.

Open 6 days for dinner, 4.30pm–9pm

Open Tue–Sat for lunch, 11am–2pm

31 Scott Street, Blenheim Ph: 03 972 2799

facebook.com/thai9blenheim

Restaurant Sasa

Serving modern Japanese and Asian food made with traditional in mind, we offer you a unique dining experience in the Riverside Hotel. Why not start your night with fresh sashimi, tempura or spicy chicken along with a cup of gold flake sake. We have something for everyone.

Open Mon to Thu, 5pm–9pm Fri–Sat, 12pm–2pm & 5pm–9pm

20 Nelson Street, Blenheim Ph: 03 577 5996

facebook.com/japanesefoodblenheim

Ritual Cafe

With outstanding coffee served by friendly staff in a centrally located retro cafe, come on in and soak up Ritual’s comfy, homely atmosphere. Enjoy something from the range of vegan and gluten free food from the cabinet or menu (menu available until 2pm).

Open Mon to Fri, 7am–4pm Sat, 7am–3pm, Sun 8am–2.30pm

10 Maxwell Road, Blenheim

Ph: 03 578 6939

Follow us on Facebook

Decorating

A commitment to quality service for over forty years

Family owned and operated, Martella is a name that has been synonymous in the region with quality home heating solutions.

Martella Refrigeration & Air Conditioning was founded in 1983 by Allan and Sally Martella. The company still remains in the family with Craig and Steph Martella continuing the renowned Martella name for quality work and dedicated local service that first began four decades ago. Craig says he enjoys the challenge of designing, problem solving and finding solutions for their customers, while Steph enjoys her role coordinating the administration side of the business along with balancing family life.

“As a well-founded local company, we have succeeded in the good times and endured through the downturns by conducting our business with honesty and integrity.

“This is evidenced by our long-standing relationships with businesses and private homeowners, many of who we have been serving for decades and who remain with us not out of just out of loyalty but because we do good work, and, on the rare occasions when things go wrong, we make good.

“We have also built long-standing partnerships with trusted brands such our founding 30-year dealership with Daikin NZ.”

The Martella team are part of the community and supporters of local organisations including Outward Bound, Rainbow Ski field, Queen Charlotte Yacht Club, Gateway students and apprenticeship programmes.

Offering complete solutions for climate control for both residential homes and commercial premises, the team also provide servicing and maintenance services to their local customers.

“We are part of fantastic programmes to make heat pumps more accessible to our community. These programmes include ‘Warmer Kiwi Homes’ where customers may be eligible for a government grant from EECA.

“We are also a part of the Marlborough District Council Home Clean Heating Scheme where customers may be eligible to pay for their new heat pump through their rates and spread the costs over multiple years.”

Steph says it is important for people to talk to an expert about their options to find the right solution for their home and budget.

“This ensures that the heating solution is appropriate for the individual space, and that it is not only effective and economical to run, but is installed by a trained installer, with the back-up support of a team of qualified technicians and engineers.” martella.co.nz

Allan and Sally Martella, Ryuta Hayashibara, Managing Director of Daikin NZ, and Steph and Craig Martella, receiving a plaque in recognition of being a founding dealership with Daikin NZ for 30 years. Photo: Supplied.

“We have succeeded in the good times and endured through the downturns by conducting our business with honesty and integrity.”

AMY RUSS

your way

Helping locals and businesses to protect their property

and a bespoke personal service.

Helping locals keep their personal and business assets safe, Integrity Security are the region’s go-to specialists for security solutions.

Owners, Darren and Louise Smith, moved to the region two years ago looking for a change of pace.

“We chose to live in Marlborough, we love everything about it, particularly the Sounds and the boating opportunities. And the wine!”

Darren spent 25 years with the Royal Navy as an electronics engineer.

“We moved to New Zealand in 2012, and I then enjoyed a career in the NZ power generation industry.”

Darren was looking for something to do after moving to Marlborough and says becoming self-employed just sort of happened!

Darren trained with local locksmith legend Peter Simmons, is a registered security technician and recently gained accreditation from the Master Locksmith Association of Australasia.

“Our business is also registered with the Private Security Personnel Licensing Authority (PSPLA). Peter trained me in locksmithing and remains an active friend, mentor and part of the business.”

Focusing on top-quality products and service, Darren says Integrity offers wrap-around security solutions

“We are quite versatile! We carry out traditional residential and commercial locksmithing, alarm installations, and offer a broad range of domestic and commercial electronic locking solutions – we provide some very smart and cost-effective products.

“We believe hardwired access control will go the way of the landline telephone - we have wireless solutions suitable for even high-risk commercial applications and are agents for a system endorsed for critical infrastructure by 5 Eyes.

“We also install electric barrier arms, gates and CCTV. And we love a good coffee – I’ve been known to make customers one on the machine in our van, no extra charge!”

Darren says it’s tough to attend a home or business after the occupants sense of security has been lost and that prevention is far better than cure.

“For businesses, the disruption can be far worse and more expensive than the loss of physical assets.

“Often, simple and inexpensive upgrades around a home or business can deliver significant improvements in security.

“You can be sure that thieves recognise good security.” integritysecurity.co.nz

Integrity Security owner Darren Smith spent 25 years as a Royal Navy electronics engineer. Photo: Supplied.

“Often, simple and inexpensive upgrades around a home or business can deliver significant improvements in security.”

AMY RUSS

Matariki

Manawa maiea te putanga o Matariki

Manawa maiea te ariki o te rangi

Manawa maiea te mātahi o te tau

Hail the rise of Matariki

Hail the lord of the sky

Hail the New Year

Wairau Bar | 5:30am | Saturday | 15 July

Register at events@rangitane.org.nz or call (03) 578 6180

Nau mai, haere mai e ngā tangata katoa!

Join us for our annual Rangitāne Matariki celebration. Meet at the end of the seawall at the Wairau Bar. Kai and warm drinks will be provided. Be sure to dress warm. Weather permitting - this event will be cancelled if it is raining.

Tini whetū ki te rangi … ko Rangitāne ki te whenua

Like the multitudes of stars in the sky … so great is Rangitāne on the earth

MATARIKI 2 0 23

CelebRATIng The MAoRI new YeAR

KA MAhuTA A MATARIKI I

Te

pAe,

KA

MAhuTA

Ď TĀTou

TĔMAnAKo KI Te TAu - when MATARIKI RIses Above The hoRIzon, ouR AspIRATIons RIse To The YeAR AheAd

Matariki, the Māori New Year on July 14, is a time to gather with friends and family to honour those we have lost, celebrate the present and look forward to the promise of a brand-new year.

According to maramataka, the Māori calendar, the rising of the star cluster brings the old year to a close and marks the beginning of a new one.

Traditionally Matariki is celebrated over a period of several days from the time the clusters appear, visible to the naked eye northwards from Orion’s Belt, until the new moon rises which signals the Māori New Year.

The cluster of stars that rise in our sky during winter is one of Earth’s closest clusters and has always been important to astronomers. It is known throughout the world by names such as Makali’i in Hawaii (meaning eyes of royalty), Subaru (meaning gathered together) in Japan, and Pleiades (The Seven Sisters) in ancient Greek mythology. To find the star cluster, start with the Southern Cross and look east, to Orion’s belt or Tautoru. This sets the path to Matariki and along this path you’ll see a triangle shaped constellation

called Matakārehu. Just off from this, is a bright cluster of stars. This is Matariki. Celebrate the Māori New Year

traditional hautapu ceremony from Ngongotahā. Informative and entertaining, the broadcast invites everyone

at 5:30am.

by making your way to Millenium Rock in Rārangi by 6am on Thursday, July 13 to observe and learn about Matariki. The free event is hosted by Marlborough Youth Trust in collaboration with Omaka Observatory and Ngati Toa Rangatira ki Wairau. Tune in to the live national broadcast of Matariki hautapu on Friday, July 14 from 6am to 11am for full coverage of New Zealand’s Matariki festivities, beginning at dawn with a

Observe and learn about Matariki

Thursday 13th July 2023 6am - Millenium Rock, Rārangi

TRANSPORT AVAILABLE - FREE EVENT

Hosted by Marlborough Youth Trust in collaboration with Omaka Observatory and Ngati Toa Rangatira ki Wairau.

across Aotearoa to take part in both understanding the old traditions and creating new ones of our own.

Or gather where the river meets the sea at Te Pokohiwi in Cloudy Bay on Saturday, July 15

Organised by Rangitāne o Wairau, the Wairau Bar is a significant site of our country’s earliest known inhabitants. These are just a few of the many ways which people can honour the dawn of new beginnings. However, you choose to celebrate, make sure to immerse yourself with loved ones, look forward to what the future holds, and set your sights to the night sky.

AMY RUSS

“Traditionally Matariki is celebrated over a period of several days from the time the clusters appear, visible to the naked eye northwards from Orion’s Belt, until the new moon rises which signals the Māori New Year.”

Blackmore Audiology – Sara Blackmore

Fast becoming one of the region’s most trusted audiology specialists, Blackmore Audiology owner Sara Blackmore and her highly trained team, provide a complete and personalised service to the local community. Sara was born and raised in Blenheim, before studying at University of Canterbury and becoming a member of the New Zealand Audiological Society. As an independent, locally owned clinic, Blackmore Audiology utilises the latest technology and offers a range of hearing aid options to ensure that each patient gets individualised treat-

ment for their specific needs. Providing diagnostic hearing assessments, ear wax removal via micro suctioning, hearing aid and hearing protection solutions from leading providers, they also offer free hearing screens for people aged 18 years plus. They offer unbiased advice and service and are registered providers for ACC, Ministry of Health, Veterans Affairs and WINZ. “At Blackmore Audiology we are here to guide you through your hearing journey every step of the way.”

Hearing performance never looked so good

A hearing aid with a stylish design that perfectly embodies your lifestyle and confidence. Unique. Elegant. Connected. Just like you!

free trial of the latest technology. Spaces are limited, contact our clinic to book your slot now.

Murray’s Mowing – Tony Smith

Specialising in mowing, hedge and shrub trimming, general garden work and water blasting, Murray’s Mowing and Garden Services is locally owned and operated by Tony Smith. Taking over the business four years ago, Tony and his team take great pride in their work. “Our main focus is mowing, but we also undertake seasonal work such pruning fruit trees and hedges, which is very satisfying to do.” Offering an honest and trustworthy service, Tony also offers a weed spraying service and can undertake other handyman jobs. What truly sets Murray’s Mowing apart

is their dedication to the local community and forming personal connections. Tony and his team not only deliver honest and trustworthy service but also foster genuine relationships with their clients. His work extends beyond landscaping and maintenance. “We have a contract with Veteran Affairs NZ, a role which we thoroughly enjoy. We often become friends with our clients, building close relationships with them, which is very special to us.”

Design Marlborough – Benjamin Stace

Benjamin Stace of Design Marlborough Architecture specialises in crafting tailored designs that cater to the unique requirements of each client and their specific site. Their approach focuses on striking the ideal balance between aesthetics, functionality, and budget, resulting in designs that create practical homes that enhance their clients quality of life. Ben likes to emphasise the importance of well-organised floor layouts with seamless transitions between spaces while maintaining a straightforward structure to make best use of peoples budgets.

With such amazing landscapes here in Marlborough, Ben says it’s often about keeping designs simple and letting the site speak for itself. Letting views be the focus and not having the Home dominate the landscape.

Offering full architectural services for new builds, additions and renovations, we can advise on your options early to show what is possible before you undertake any costly building works. If you’re looking to build, talk to Ben.

www.designmarlborough.co.nz

Total Realty – Hazel Youngman

Total Realty is a long-standing South Island-wide brand and Hazel Youngman is Blenheim’s lead agent. Hazel is energetic and easy-going, with a wealth of knowledge and advice on offer. Involved in the industry for over 30 years, this award-winning agent has been recognised on multiple levels with her impressive real estate career thus far. Her customer service background allows her to remain professional and focussed, while having a little fun along the way! Hazel has a very refreshing, personable and empathetic

approach along with hard-working ethics. Looking to grow her team, Hazel welcomes any confidential enquiry from local experienced agents. “The incredible opportunity to bring a lower fee commission company to Marlborough made sense. Total Realty has just as much to offer as any other real estate company, while saving thousands of dollars for the vendor, with no compromise on the marketing or service that I would provide, no matter which brand I work under.”

A Huge Saving on Commission Fees!

Cowan Building Ltd - Clayton Cowan

Cowan Building offer unparalleled architectural for new homes and renovations, alongside professional project management and more. The experts in new home design, their team thrive on their role, from challenging projects to simple concepts. Servicing the region for over 18 years, a spokesperson for the company says it has been an honour to update and build some of the most beautifully designed homes around Marlborough, Blenheim, Picton and beyond.

Working with the best in the industry, Cowan Building offer top-qual-

ity workmanship coupled with modern techniques and knowledge, bringing life to the most elaborate plans with ease, while also adhering to tight budgets and deadlines. As a well-known and trusted local builder, they are also leaky home specialists and can help with any leaky home problems. Take the hassle out of your renovation and building project with a professional and dedicated team. Cowan Building- when only the best will do.

Managed Computer Network

Founded in 2003 by Azher Mir, Managed Computer Networks (MCN) consists of a team of IT specialists, delivering exceptional service in all aspects of information technology management, MCN are masters at problem-solving. Supporting various IT environments from small home users to large organisations, MCN provide clients with onsite or in-house services as well as remote support. They stock a vast range of hardware and software products from desktop and laptop computers, and toner cartridges, through to complex server

and infrastructure solutions. They can help plan and analyse a technology pathway to future-proof a business and determine the best strategy for each client and MCN are experts at providing solid network security for your IT needs. “By providing effective IT support, advice and communicating effectively at all stages of our management and monitoring process, our clients are confident they can focus on their core business and achieve their goals.”

Contact 021 100 3138 www.cowanbuilding.co.nz cowanbuilding@xtra.co.nz

Cairns Electrical – Warren Cairns

Warren Cairns, the proud owner of Cairns Electrical, has been running his small locally owned business for an impressive 15 years, backed by 22 years of experience in the industry. As a small business owner, Warren takes immense pride in providing a personalised service to his clients. “I operate Marlborough-wide and love the challenge of servicing the entire province.” Warren specialises in residential housing, renovations, and also undertakes some commercial projects.

With a wealth of experience in the full range of electrical services, de-

livering outstanding customer service and quality workmanship, Warren finds a perfect balance between prac ticality and technicality in his work. “I get a great satisfaction from helping people realise their dreams and seeing projects through to completion.” An active supporter of local community groups, Warren has been a dedicated sponsor of the region’s Central Rugby Club for the past five years, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to the community that he serves.

Diane Parish Real Estate

Diane Parish, a seasoned professional in the real estate industry, has dedicated most of her working life on the front line, prioritising individuals in reaching their desired destinations. With over 35 years of extensive experience in real estate, Diane’s expertise can greatly benefit anyone looking to sell their residential property, ensuring that they have a knowledgeable ally on their side.

By offering a flat fee guarantee of 2.5% +gst, Diane ensures that the fee will not hinder the decisionmaking process when it comes to list-

ing one’s home. Instead, the focus can shift to finding the best agent to successfully sell the property.

Diane’s genuine care, dedication, and transparent communication consistently shine through in the countless positive reviews, which all share this common thread. Diane Parish Real Estate is committed to delivering an exceptional real estate experience to every client, starting with a complimentary evaluation of what your home is likely to sell for in today’s market.

When only the best will do...

Cresswell Electrical - Jamie Miller

A relatively new addition to the group, Jamie Miller has definitely jumped in ‘boots and all’. After seven years learning his trade through residential work and heat-pumps, Jamie’s first project with Cresswell Electrical in 2022 was delivering the electrical part of the new library build.

“Before I became an electrician, I started work in the renovation and decoration trade and so I totally understand the importance of not just finishing the job but getting the detail right as well”.

“Since joining the trade, I have found

I really enjoy the fault-finding and troubleshooting process. When you find and solve that issue for a customer it can be incredibly rewarding.

“At Cresswell Electrical our work intersects with engineering, construction and automation. So, there’s always something new to learn, often a new issue to solve, and opportunities to grow my capability. It means that no two days are alike, and opportunities to learn and grow are there every day”.

Anderson Architecture - Jason Anderson

For a quality architectural designer, bringing a dream home to life is about more than just drawing a few lines on some paper.

“At Anderson Architecture, we thrive on working closely with our clients nationwide to gain a full understanding of their ideas and requirements, which we carefully combine with our knowledge of contemporary architectural design and New Zealand building regulations,” says Jason. The resulting homes are stylish and comfortable, smart, sympathetic to their environment, and perfect for

you. Based in Blenheim, Anderson Architecture are well known in the Blenheim, Nelson and Richmond, Tasman, areas and have a respectable portfolio of projects under their belts. They are known for their ability to quickly translate concepts into design renderings, saving both time and money for their clients. Most importantly, they have a passion, energy and a drive for design which makes working with both clients and developers a true pleasure for the team.

Delivering high quality workmanship to all their projects

Specialising in new builds, light commercial and renovations across the top of the South, Taylor & Co Building Ltd are the regions one stop shop for everything building and carpentry. Covering all areas from Rai Valley to Kaikoura and all through the Marlborough Sounds, owner Brad Taylor says his experienced team can tackle any project with ease.

“Nowhere is too much of an issue for us, whether it be by boat or by car. I have a great team who support and learn from each other. Team comradery is key with us.

“We work well as one unit but

we also have specialist tradies for different jobs, from full architectural new builds, to commercial, to decks, extensions, fences, project management. playgrounds and everything in between.”

A second-generation builder, Brad has known the building trade all of his life, learning from the best and completing his training through his father’s company.

“One thing we never compromise on is quality craftsmanship. We take great pride in what we do, and delivering a high-quality product to our clients is must.

“The team all have high expectations and work efficiently to

deliver in a timely manner. Dedication from all the team is key.

“We plan and discuss in our weekly meetings and have goals for the week. Ensure proper planning from the pricing stage to ordering, right through to completion to keep the work and business on track. And offer

hard work and commitment to every job no matter what it may be.”

Creating solid relationships with client’s, suppliers and subcontractors has seen the award-winning business in good stead over the years, and their ability to offer a huge range of services has

now gotten even bigger with a more recent collaboration with Revolution Electric.

“The relationships we have built outside of the company are a huge factor as they have supported us to get to where we are now.”

Taking on interesting projects are all in a day’s work for the Taylor & Co Building team.

“The challenges are always exciting for not only me but also the team. Difficult projects and new products all add to a different day on the job.”

Contact Brad at Taylor & Co Building on 0278178413 or email brad@taylorcobuild.co.nz for a no-obligation consultation. taylorcobuild.co.nz

There’s nothing electrical we can’t help with!

Brad Taylor, centre, with his dedicated team. Photo: Supplied.

Young Red Devils do it again

The Marlborough under-52kg primary school rugby side cut a swathe through the annual Seddon Shield tournament in Motueka, winning all their matches in fine style.

In total, they scored 261 points and conceded just 24 as they swept aside all four top-of-thesouth rivals.

The event, widely-acknowledged as the country’s longest-running rugby tournament, began on Monday, with Marlborough beating West Coast 87-5 first up. On Tuesday they accounted for Golden Bay Motueka 60-12, then raced past Buller 74-0 on Wednesday.

After a bye on Thursday, the Red Devils took on a similarly-un-

beaten Nelson side on Friday, coming away with a decisive 40-7 victory to claim the coveted shield for the third consecutive year, sharing it with Nelson in 2021.

Marlborough coach Glenn Blackmore put the team’s success down

to their culture and team environment.

“That was the big thing, it is amazing how far that gets you in these tournaments,” he suggested.

“Having the guys together for a week in the same accommoda-

tion really binds them together. “We had some great individual performances, but overall the guys gelled really well.”

On the back of their dominance, nine of the Marlborough players were chosen in the tournament team. Player of the tournament

was halfback Marshall Coles, who was selected along with prop Fionn Heagney, hooker Theo Large, prop Zavier McDonald, lock Phoenix St George, loosie AJ Moli, No 8 Cooper Murray, first five Tom Heagney and midfielder Jade Joseph.

The Marlborough team comprised: Fionn Heagney, Theo Large, Zavier McDonald, Thomas Andrews, Phoenix St George, Andrew Moli, Adam van Gruenen, Cooper Murray, Marshall Coles, Tom Heagney, Louis Hickman, Jade Joseph, Cyrus Prestage, Jack Wickens, Ash Murrell, Chey Wirepa, Tom Dunne, Toby Rose, Harry Robertson, Dylan Gifford. Management: Glenn Blackmore, Paddy Dowling, Kieran Hickman.

The tournament will be staged in Blenheim next year.

Women’s motocross for Marlborough

PETER JONES

Women’s motocross racing in the top of the south will receive another boost at Matariki Weekend, when the inaugural MXLadies Motocross Championships are staged in Marlborough.

Created several years ago by Nelson woman Simone Dacombe, the MXLadiesNZ group have joined forces with the Marlborough Motorcycle Club [MMC] to stage the event, which takes place on Saturday, July 15 on the MMC track at 8/452 Northbank Rd.

Dacombe says the aim of her MXLadiesNZ group has been

to help evolve the women’s motocross scene in New Zealand, a growth area in recent times thanks to Motorcycling New Zealand’s Women’s Commission and inspired by the international success of Kiwi riders over the years such as world champion Courtney Duncan, Rachael Archer, Roma Edwards, Katherine Prumm and Tania Satchwell, among others.

Up until this year, the MXLadiesNZ group has held fundays and training days throughout the top of the south, but now Dacombe feels the time is ripe to step it up a notch.

“When I started the MXLadiesNZ group, we were mostly just in the top of the South Island, but we had a couple of hundred girls showing up from across New Zealand. We received messages from female riders across New Zealand wanting to join in and now we are New Zealand-wide with an on-line following of about 800.

“This year we have collaborated with the Marlborough Motorcycle Club to hold this big event, our first Motorcycling New Zealand-affiliated motocross race, with additional support from MTF Finance and many other

Winners CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR

After a review of the terms and conditions, we would like to acknowledge that Paul O’Donnell of BDO Marlborough was robbed of his well deserved solo 1st Place position in this season’s Super Rugby Tipping Challenge, which has now been updated. Massive congratulations to Paul taking out the number one spot with Ant Clark coming in a point behind at 2nd place. Looking forward to seeing them both on the NPC tipping board to battle it out again.

sponsors.

“We have lots of classes and are catering to Mini Ladies, Junior Ladies and Senior Ladies, including beginners. We are also offering half price entry to all North Island riders,” she says. The various classes have some novel names, such as Wonder Woman, Average Jane, New To The Dirt, Wonder Girl, Super Girl and Mighty Minis, signifying a fun and family approach to the sport.

“We are also opening the track up the following day to all dads, brothers, husbands. . . the supporters. . . to have an open track

day, for a small track fee, so this event will actually be inclusive of everyone.”

The venue will be signposted from Northbank Rd, where it turns off from State Highway 6. President of the host Marlborough Motorcycle Club, Chris Mealings, says his club, and also the Nelson Motorcycle Club, was “right behind women’s motocross 100 percent”.

“My wife does not really race motocross, but she does ride well and is one of those up-and-comers in the sport and we really want to encourage women in motocross,” he said.

The Marlborough primary schools rugby side join with their Nelson rivals for a ‘fins up’ salute after the Seddon Shield tournament decider in Motueka on Friday. Photo: Supplied.

Antony Clark

Richie Marsden

Paul O’Donnell

Squash stars come out to play

PETER JONES

Marlborough was well represented at the recent NZ senior squash championships and the large contingent did not disappoint with a string of top performances.

The event, staged in Tauranga, only allows the country’s top 32 players entered to play, so just making the draw was a real achievement - especially given the presence of world-class athletes, Paul Coll and Joelle King. All athletes had five matches to play in three days, testing their endurance to the max.

Top of the pops yet again for the Marlborough crew was the evergreen Megan Graham, who finished runner-up to Joelle in the women’s grade, going down 11-4, 11-5, 11-5 to the world number four player.

Megan, national champion in 2014 and 2016, downed the country’s top junior, Ella Lash, in four

sets to reach the decider.

“I was pretty stoked with how I went,” said Megan. “I wish I could have kept Joelle out there longer but she knew I could run all day so she didn’t want to be out there too long.

“My aim was to make the final so you have to be happy with that … you don’t really know what is happening with the juniors now, they can come out with anything.”

Thirty-year-old Megan, a mother of two who is recently recovered from an Achilles tendon rupture, says she “just happy to be back out there after being injured … I haven’t looked too far ahead.

“It’s a starting point. I don’t want to go back on the world tour or anything like that, but I would like to make another New Zealand team one day,” she added.

Marlborough players were involved in other notable matches. Leonie Marshall and Mikayla Kerr produced a tight encounter

before Leonie prevailed three sets to one, jumping a highly-creditable six places above her seeding (24th to 18th).

Her brother, US-based Tom Marshall, also had a top tournament, also jumping six seeds (from 23rd to 17th). In Tom’s play off for 17th and 18th place, he took down world junior representative Freddie Jamieson in four sets.

Chris Hebberd (20) and Paul Moran (14) unfortunately defaulted prior to finishing their five matches.

Chris sustained an ankle injury in the fifth set of his key second match. He is working hard on recovery and heading to Melbourne to represent New Zealand in the men’s individual at the World Junior Champs alongside

five other top NZ junior men. Tom did not play the selection tournaments due to his academic commitments in the USA but is now on a 5.8 rating and qualified for the top tier Junior Championship Tournaments over the past season as number one for the McCallie School team under the coaching of former Kiwi pro Dan Sharplin.

Final NZ champs placings: Megan Graham (2) placed 2nd; Mikayla Kerr (21) placed 19th; Leonie Marshall (24) placed 18th; Tom Marshall (23) placed 17th. SI title for Jack Meanwhile in Invercargill, Marlborough’s Jack Frisken recently took out the U17 South Island title, winning a five-setter for the trophy. Jack recently travelled to the Canadian and US Junior Open and is also a member of the Squash New Zealand development squad, alongside Chris and Tom.

Tasman Trophy decider returns to Blenheim

PETER JONES

Central earned an opportunity to clinch back-to-back Tasman Trophy rugby titles with a hardearned 34-22 victory over Stoke at Lansdowne Park on Saturday afternoon.

Then, adding to the joy of getting past a side who had beaten them in the round-robin stages, was the news that top qualifier Kahurangi had been beaten 18-11 by fourthplaced Marist in Motueka, meaning the elated Blues will host next Saturday’s trophy decider in Blenheim.

Central made the early running on a gloomy, drizzly afternoon, bringing strike weapon Timoci Tavatavanawai into action whenever possible as they surged to a 14-3 lead halfway through the first spell.

Then it was Stoke’s turn to attack and it was only staunch defence that stopped them coming away with more than three points after a long period camped in Central’s 22.

The home side botched a couple of clear-cut scoring opportunities through dropped passes but picked up a crucial try just before the halftime break, centre Nigel Satherley finally creating a gap in the Stoke defensive line to push Central into a 21-3 lead.

Tavatavanawai’s second try, once again from a clever lineout vari-

ation, saw the Blues move ahead 28-10 straight after oranges, Mitch Smith converting all of his side’s four touchdowns.

Stoke replied almost immediately, a converted try closing the gap, before two penalties to Smith stretched the home side’s lead to 34-17.

Again, Stoke fought back, scoring a late try before time ran out on their very competitive 2023 campaign.

The Blues will head into the title decider with a much-changed side from that which dominated last year’s competition, injuries and absences meaning other players now get a chance to taste finals footy, a fact that pleases player-coach Quentin MacDonald.

“It shows that what we have been doing at training is working, and not just with the same set of players,” he said.

The inspirational hooker was again at the heart of the Central game and a big part of a scrum which dominated throughout, often getting his side out of trouble with well-timed momentum.

The tight five were impressive. Prop Sione Papani had a top game, as did fellow front-rower Lockie McCormick, plus locks Matt McCormick and Wayden Smith.

Loosies Jack Kelly and Luke Crookbain tackled well, while No 8 Vailua Kaloni carried strongly.

Tavatavanawai was at his bustling best out wide, halfback Ethan Jones was tidy in difficult conditions, fullback Jake Cresswell was accomplished at the back while Mitch Smith continued to display a cool head with a string of good decisions.

MacDonald was proud of his charges and the way they dug in.

“Against a team like [Stoke] no

lead is safe, we found that out over the last couple of weeks so we will take that gladly. There are obviously some areas we have to tidy up but generally I thought the backs and forwards complemented each other pretty well.

“I also thought we defended well although our discipline let us down at times, but hey, we’ll take that in semifinals footy.

“We have earned one more week but we are well aware it will be a tough battle against Marist.”

MacDonald was also pleased with how the team were able to get strike weapon Tavatavanawai more into the game from his wing position. “We have got to use him as much as possible … he’s too special to not get involved.”

Although Stoke will rue lost opportunities, especially at scrum time, they produced a whole-hearted display, led by skipper Taine Robinson in midfield, fullback Colm Hogan, busy halfback Mason Lund, flanker Tayne Hemopo and hooker Kendall Hodson.

Mud Dogs do business

Meanwhile, a rampaging Renwick division two side made sure there was no double delight for Central at Lansdowne Park. The “Mud Dogs” booked a spot in next week’s final with a gritty 28-17 victory over the second seeds.

In a see-sawing encounter, Renwick claimed a handy 12-3 halftime lead on the back of some cohesive forward play, closerange tries to Nick Dickson and Ty Bampton giving them an edge.

A Liam Young try for the Blues closed the gap straight after the break and, although Bampton landed a penalty goal, a Te Ariki Peipi touchdown pushed the home side into a 17-15 lead midway through the half.

That was the signal for Renwick to up the ante and they did just that, creating field position from where Bampton booted two more penalties and replacement winger Rupeni Cokanasiga scored a late try to wrap up the match for the delighted “Mud Dogs”.

Kyle Marfell, Bampton, Vincent Liardet-Smith, Mike Emmerson, Hayden Howard and Matt Patterson caught the eye for Renwick, while Peipi, Young, Cam Donald, Caleb Young, Vili Taufa and Logan Robinson shone for the Blues.

Renwick will play defending champs Waitohi in the division two final after the Picton-based side downed Harlequins 31-14 at Endeavour Park.

Quins led 11-7 at the break, but were unable to capitalise on a good start, the home side raising the tempo in the second half to book a place in the decider.

Central winger Timoci Tavatavanawai dashes in for his side’s second try at Lansdowne Park on Saturday. Photo: Peter Jones.

Megan Graham reached the final of the NZ squash champs in Tauranga. Photo: Squash NZ.

Rep basketballers show spirit

PETER JONES

Marlborough teams proved very competitive in the recent Tasman Cup senior basketball tournament, finishing a narrow second in both grades.

The Marlborough Magic men’s side made their way to Sunday’s final in the six-team competition, taking on a classy ABC Rhythm side from Nelson, who prevailed 85-57.

The Marlborough women’s side played a series of matches against a similarly-powerful Nelson women’s side, losing by just two points in the best-of-three title decider.

Matt Pigou, spokesman for the Magic team, described it as “a great weekend”.

“The team didn’t have any formal trainings and was made up from the three local A grade teams, plus young MBC players Toby Baker and Vitale Toia,” he added. Despite their hurried build-up

Marlborough performed strongly, beating Nelson’s ABC Comets in the first game of the tournament.

Their second match game was a tougher encounter, coming up against eventual winners ABC Rhythm, then, on Sunday morning’s semifinal, Magic took on ABC Old Boys who qualified top of pool A after beating West Coast and ABC Magic.

Marlborough trailed until the final quarter before a late surge saw them get across the line. They had top performances from former MBC player Seb Lock, and shooting guard Donny Clarke to thank for their success.

Against ABC Rhythm again in the decider, Magic put up a much stronger performance than they managed in the preliminary rounds. The scores were tied 1010 at the end of the first quarter before the visitors pulled away to claim a well-earned tournament title.

For Marlborough, top scorers in the final were Matt Pigou (18) and Leo Wiapo (10). For the victors former Marlborough player Tyler Herbert, recently returned from the NZ under-23 3v3 world championships, showed his class all tournament. Rhythm also called in Ernie Kerr for Sunday’s games, the current Nelson Giant Ernie showed some excellent touches in the final.

Lock was huge all weekend for Magic, with loads of offensive rebounds and great work inside. He scored 51 points, averaging 12.1 points per game. Captain Wiapo led from the front all weekend while guards Clarke and Pigou provided outside shooting in tight matches.

With trophy holders West Coast not making an appearance this year, the women’s competition came down to a three-match series, Nelson winning game one 41-33, Marlborough taking game two 58-52, then the visitors edg-

ing out Marlborough in the decider, winning 35-33.

The first game saw a nervy Marlborough side take on a polished Nelson side containing former Tall Fern, Kat Jones.

Marlborough’s 15-year-old star, Birgitta Prescott, showed she could play at this high level, an impressive effort in her first tournament since knee surgery.

Nelson also struggled to convert baskets in this low-scoring encounter, but were strong on the boards, Prescott scoring 13 and Nelson’s Jodi Hikuroa-Jeffrey 12. In game two a determined Marlborough side, led by Prescott with 16 points and Emily Stenhouse (13) ensured the series went to a decider.

Height in the keyhole helped, with Eloise van Velthooven joining the team for this game and taking many rebounds, blocking shots and scoring in the key.

Hikuroa-Jeffrey was again the highest scorer for Nelson with 15

points.

The decider was a tough battle to the very last seconds between two weary teams. Nelson were consistently a couple of points ahead throughout the match with point guard Hikuroa-Jeffrey showing why she was the stand-out player of the weekend with strong drives to the basket and accurate jump shots.

Sophie Van Velthooven led the way for Marlborough in this game, scoring 11 points. Prescott was the home side’s second-highest scorer with eight points.

Lemon Shield team put squeeze on bowls rivals

The Marlborough indoor bowls rep team returned to Blenheim on Saturday night with the coveted Lemon Shield, after getting the better of rivals from Nelson, Golden Bay and West Coast-Buller.

The Marlborough team combined superbly in Nelson to get their hands on a trophy they last won in 2021.

In a tight competition played over six rounds of six matches, Marlborough hit the front in the

fifth round, going on to win the Shield with five wins in the final round and a total of 22 games won. Golden Bay finished second with 20 games, from Nelson on 18 and West Coast-Buller on 12.

The top team for the event was Lois Randall’s Marlborough combination of Ken Wells, Kiri Bond and Julian Adams, bringing home the Warnes Trophy with five wins out of six games.

The next Marlborough rep match is a new fixture against Canterbury, Nelson and Golden Bay/ Motueka which will fully test the

new Lemon Shield holders.  This event will be fours, pairs and singles played over three rounds on Saturday at the Simcox Stadium in Blenheim. Spectators are welcome.

This new event is a lead-up to the Inter Provincial Championship to be played in Timaru in September.

The Marlborough team comprises: Nathan Della-Bosca, Steven Grant, Tony Jones and Julian Adams. Kevin Wills, Glen Hurcomb, Judi Symington and Jill Hurcomb. Reserve Ken Wells.

The victorious Marlborough Lemon Shield team. Photo: Supplied.

PETER

Brigitta Prescott brings the ball down court. Photo: Peter Jones.

MARLBOROUGH’S COMMUNITY NOTICES

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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/ 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/ Mon 6-7pm. First lesson free, $6 per lesson after that. Senior Citizen’s Hall, 172 High St. Ph Judith 5787554 / 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 info.

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

TUESDAY

SAYGO (Steady As You Go) Gentle exercise & balance class for Seniors. Every Tues 11.30am-12.30pm. St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St, Blenheim. Cost $2. Stay for a cuppa & chat after. For more info ph Donna Wahrlich, Eldercare Coordinator 0273852333 email donna@ stchristopers.co.nz

MARLBOROUGH HERB SOCIETY Meets 4th Tues of month, 7pm. Various locations. To promote use, educate & identification of herbs. Email: mhsgarlicpress@gmail. com

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 8.3012pm. 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 / 0223007342.

BLENHEIM CHORAL (Marlb 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-12pm. 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. For info Ph Carol 0212125252/Raewyn 021715484.

WEDNESDAY

PICTON LIONS Join a worthwhile volunteer group, both female & male members wanted, good fellowship, all money raised goes back to Picton community. First Wed of the month. Ph Norman 0274336242

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. St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St, Blenheim. Cost $2. Stay for a cuppa & chat after. For more info ph Donna Wahrlich, Eldercare Coordinator 0273852333. Email donna@stchristopers.

co.nz

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. Interested in the Bible or Christianity, desire 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 0221642782/Mandy 022 4326886.

DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP Meet every Wed 1011.30am to support each other. Regular speakers, outings, share in a safe environment. Ph Alistair Crawford for details 0272883032.

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

BLENHEIM PETANQUE CLUB Games held at courts, 65A Weld St, Wed 1-3pm & Sun 10am-12pm. Ph/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/Helen Williams 0211458572.

WAITOHI SOCIAL CLUB. We meet 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

OLDER PERSONS SEMINAR 27th July, at St Christopher’s Church Hall, 10am-1pm. Speaker: Karen Delves. Entertainment: Cultural Dance. Morning tea & light lunch provided. Cost $5. 92 Weld St Blenheim. Ph Donna Wahrlich Eldercare Coordinator 0273852333 or donna@ stchristophers.co.nz. Facebook: St Christophers Community Eldercare

PICTON BRIDGE CLUB CLUB Every Thurs 6.50pm Port Marlborough Pavilion. All levels welcome. Ph Judy 021685348.

KEEP U MOVING Gentle walking exercise for Seniors. Every Thurs 11.30am-12.30pm (Except 4th Thurs in each month). St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St, Blenheim. Stay for a cuppa & chat after. Cost $2. For more info ph Donna Wahrlich, Eldercare Coordinator 0273852333. Email donna@stchristophers.co.nz

INVITING YOU TO COMPANIONS Ages 65+. Free. 1st Thurs of Month. 1pm. Harvest Life Church, 22 Nelson St. Afternoon tea, interesting programme through the year. For info ph Avon 035792440/Lorraine 035781240/ Shirley 035783728.

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

SOCIAL BADMINTON Thurs morning 9am-12noon Simcox Stadium Batty’s Rd. $6. All adults welcome. Ph

Cathy 021503348

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 Blenheim Library every 2nd & 4th Thurs of the month. 10am-12noon. All welcome. Bring your yarn & have a yarn. 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 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 0210451799 or email picton@newcomers.co.nz

LINK Fun, board games & afternoon tea in the lounge at Nativity Centre, 76 Alfred St every Fri 1pm. Gold coin donation appreciated. Ph 5783909 for info.

UPBEAT ORCHESTRA All ages. Instruments. From beginner-grade 5. St Ninians Church Hall, Alabama Rd every Fri 5-6.30p. Email upbeatorchestra@gmail.com for info.

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

MARLBOROUGH STAMP COLLECTORS CLUB General meeting Sunday 16th July. Doors open 1.30pm. Guest speaker Jeremy Diamond Kellyshaw, basketball cards. 1-page cards/postcards. 34 Arthur Baker Pl, Brayshaw Heritage Park. Ph Louise 0211573496.

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. 13 Aug. 10 Sep. 8 Oct & 12 Nov. Meet at Wairau Rowing Club, Steam Wharf Rd, Grovetown. 9:30am-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, Marlb 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 FARMERS MARKET A&P showgrounds, 9am-12pm Sun, local fresh & seasonal produce & products.

REDWOOD MARKET Redwood Tavern car park, Cleg-

horn St. Sat, 8am-12pm. Plants, garden products, flowers, crafts including handmade soaps, cards & jewellery. Raising money for your community.

PICTON RAIL & SAIL on the Foreshore. Mini train rides & yachts from 20 cents. Every Sun & the school holiday’s, subject to weather.

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. for info email 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 meet Sat fortnightly (approx. beginning & mid-month) 10am. Revival Café, Springlands. Informal gathering of folk interested in this dietary practice. No charge, no obligation but the coffee’s great! For info Ph 0275057774.

REPAIR CAFÉ We’ll fix your small repair on site, on the day, while you have a cuppa. Sewing, darning, bikes, small furniture, wooden items, toys, electronics & mobile phones. 9am-12noon. 22nd July (Monthly, every 4th Sat). John’s Kitchen, 2 Redwood St. Donations accepted.

GENERAL GROUPS

SOUTH ISLAND MASTERS GAMES Over 30 sports for players of any level. 10-23 Oct in Marl. For more info go to simasters.com

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS Thurs /Sat 7-8pm. Riversdale Community House, 131 Budge St. BLENHEIM ROWING CLUB Rowing on Wairau River from the boatshed. 259 Jones Rd, Grovetown. Every Sun 8.45am. Tues & Thurs 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 info ph 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. Email soundsvehicle@gmail.com or Ph 5741311.

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-12pm Ph Bill Rogers 5735507/Rex 21469191. 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/ smart phone. Ph Secretary - Ian Cameron (03)5742558 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, overnight & extended trips. Info at www.marlboroughtrampingclub.co.nz or marlboroughtrampingclub@gmail.com

SUPERVISORS & RUNNERS

NOTIFICATION OF IMPENDING COMMENCEMENT ISOLATED HILL PREDATOR CONTROL

Vector Free Marlborough (VFM) wishes to advise landowners and other interested parties of its intention to aerially apply the toxin sodium fluoroacetate (1080) for the purpose of controlling possums, stoats, and rats in the Isolated Hill Scenic Reserve.

The operation is being carried out by Vector Free Marlborough (VFM) on behalf of the Department of Conservation (DOC) to protect vulnerable native species from introduced predators.

Unfavourable weather conditions over recent weeks have delayed the planned toxic application of this operation, originally scheduled for early June 2023.

Description of Area

The Isolated Hill Scenic Reserve is approximately 3,400ha and is mostly contained within the catchments of two southbank tributaries of the Waima (Ure) River. The reserve is surrounded on all sides by developed farmland with Protected Private Lands (PPL’s; 590ha) that have been negotiated with neighbours on the northern and western boundaries to exclude domestic stock from areas of remnant forest presently outside but adjoining the reserve.

Public Access & Recreational Facilities

The treatment area covers over the Sawcut gorge track to Isolation Hut, through to Brian Boru Bivvy, Napolean Bivvy, and sections of the Zoo Hut track. The affected sections of tracks will be restricted to public access whilst the aerial application of toxic bait takes place. Please note Sawcut Gorge track is closed. Huts will have water supplies disconnected and provided with alternative drinking water supplies in accordance with Public Health Permit conditions, along with warning signs and factsheets in place before the operation commences.

Toxin warning signs will be in place at all track entrances immediately prior to the application of toxic bait. Advisory signage will also be installed at key sites prior to non-toxic prefeed application.

Commencement Date

The operation commenced on 14 June 2023 with the aerial application of non-toxic cereal prefeed pellets. This will be followed by the aerial application of cereal pellets containing biodegradable 1080 during the next suitable weather opportunity.

All work is weather dependent and people intending to visit the affected area are advised to check the VFM and DOC websites for the status of the operation, and/or seek up-to-date information from the DOC office in Renwick.

Bait Description

Prefeed: Non-toxic cereal-based pellet, approximately 16mm long, cinnamon-lured and non-dyed (sandy coloured). Please note that this phase was completed on 14 June 2023.

Toxic bait: Cereal based pellet, approximately 16mm long, cinnamon-lured and dyed green with a toxic loading of 0.15% sodium fluoroacetate (1080).

The aerial operation will use helicopters equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS) hardware and calibrated buckets to ensure accurate placement and adherence to consent conditions.

Precautions

This pesticide is poisonous to humans and domestic animals. The public are reminded of the danger that toxic baits and possum carcasses pose, particularly to children and dogs.

Children should be kept under strict supervision in the treatment area. Dogs should be kept under strict control at all times and not have access to, or be taken into the treatment area as they are particularly susceptible to accidental poisoning through contact with 1080 bait and poisoned carcasses The risks of poison carcasses to dogs may extend downstream of the control area.

Game animals should not be sold or taken for eating from within or adjacent to this area until it is declared clear of pesticides.

Warning signs will be erected at all main public entry points and the public are reminded that it is an offence to remove any of these signs. Warning signage will remain in place until monitoring indicates that bait and carcasses no longer contain pesticide residues. Observe the following precautions whenever you see toxin warning signs present:

• DO NOT touch bait

• WATCH CHILDREN at all times

• DO NOT EAT animals from this area or from within the “buffer zone” outside the treatment area boundary. The buffer zone is 200m for rabbits, 1km for hares, tahr, wallabies and possums, and 2 km for deer, pigs and any other animals.

• DEADLY TO DOGS, do not allow dogs access to animal carcasses

If you suspect poisoning

Contact your local hospital, or dial 111

National Poisons Centre 0800 POISON - 0800 764 766

In the case of a domestic animal being poisoned, contact a local veterinarian.

For further information please contact the Isolated Hill Operation Controller:

Vector Free Marlborough PO Box 5171, Springlands, Blenheim 7241

Phone: 0508 548 008

Email: communications@vectorfree.co.nz

Department of Conservation Renwick Office, Gee Street, Renwick

Phone: 03 572 9100

Email: renwick@doc.govt.nz

SEEKING NEW CONTRACT GROWERS

of all varieties from 2024 onwards. Parcels smaller than 10 hectares preferred. Competitive prices and payment terms.

Give Matt or Fraser a confidential call: matthew@catalinasounds.co.nz

+64 21 0330826

fraser@catalinasounds.co.nz

+64 21 749 456

DILLON, David Sandford Lee

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful death of David on Sunday, July 2, 2023. Loved and respected husband of Sue. Loved father of Henry, Tom, and Hannah. David’s life will be celebrated in a service held on the farm, The Throne, 135 Avondale Road, Waihopai Valley at 1pm on Friday July 7 followed by private interment.

Respectfully cared for by GEOFFREY T SOWMAN

FDANZ (03) 578 4719

www.sowmans.co.nz

PH

PSYCHIC FOR SALE MUSCOVY AND PEKING DUCKS

Ready

CLASSIFIEDS

WALLACE, Stephen Alan

Passed away unexpectedly in Picton on Wednesday June 28, 2023. Aged 63 years. Cherished by his family, relatives and friends. Messages may be sent to the Wallace Family, c/- P O Box 110, Blenheim 7240. In accordance with Stephen’s wishes, a private cremation has been held.

Respectfully cared for by

GEOFFREY T SOWMAN

FDANZ (03) 578 4719 www.sowmans.co.nz

WOLFE, Julian Merchant (Jim)

On Wednesday July 5, 2023 at Hospice

Marlborough. Aged 87 years. Loved husband of the late Claire, loved father of Chris and Melissa; father-in-law of Hannah and George. Opa (Bap) to Baer, Saxon, Fionn and Eli; Ome to Rezy, Monique and Irene. Will be missed by all family and friends. A private farewell has been held.

Respectfully cared for by GEOFFREY T SOWMAN

FDANZ (03) 578 4719

www.sowmans.co.nz

2 Inauspicious (7)

3 Spontaneous (9)

4 Faint appearance (5)

5 Middle East holy city (9)

6 Set of examination questions (5)

7 To inconvenience (7)

8 Withdrawal (7)