Nelson Magazine - October 2021

OCTOBER 2021

Sharing the LOVE of ART

A novel way to ENJOY BOOKS

Street

FASHION PLUS: Fishing a fine line | A world winning shot | Women alone

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Tony Bowater, CEO of Bowater Toyota, with Rick Field, Nick Robson and Robert Schadewinkel from the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary alongside the new Toyota Landcrusier 70 Series they will use over the coming few seasons on the steep lands of the sanctuary.

BMG & The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary A community partnership of beasts & birds.

The relationship between Bowater’s and The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary stretches back many years now, and we are proud to have been associated with such a gutsy, hard fought community project since the early days.

We have been in their corner long before the fence went up, back when it was all still a dream, and they were all working very hard to turn it into a reality.

They needed to raise large amounts of funds, and raise awareness of the project, so we gave them the long term use of a prime spot in the upper showroom that now houses Bowater Hyundai, Isuzu & Renault. This space at the very busy intersection on the corner of Rutherford and Hardy Streets in central Nelson was ideal, they had great visibility and also the room to hold large fundraising events.

Over the years we have also helped them with their fleet - they now have 3 Toyota Hilux working the sometimes unforgiving steep land that makes up the majority of the nearly 700 hectare sanctuary. We recently dropped off the king of the beasts in the Toyota range, the double cab Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series.

This is the ultimate workhorse and will see them right until their next Toyota Hilux arrives and they can put that to work.

The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary are excited to present their Spring Open Day this October 24th, and Bowater Toyota will be there helping them celebrate spring and the next stage of their journey.

Open Day : 10am Sunday 24th Oct 75 YEARS

Join us and the amazing Sanctuary team for Nelsons Big Green Day Out as we celebrate our native flora and fauna in an idyllic setting. Enjoy delicious street food, stimulate your creativity through collaborative art workshops, take a stroll along peaceful bush tracks or sit back and enjoy some live music. With activities planned for the whole family, this will be a great day out you won't want to miss.

You will also be helping the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary on the next leg of it’s journey as they move beyond the construction phase and into the actual sanctuary phase. The recent release of 40 endangered Tīeke (South Island saddleback) into the confines of the 14.4km predator proof fenced area was monumental and hopefully a sign of things to come.

The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary is the largest fenced Sanctuary in the South Island. Close to Nelson city but hidden away, it is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of New Zealand native bush, breathe deeply and engage with nature. We love it, and love helping them drive their dream.

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6 stores across Nelson & Tasman

October 2021

What’s inside Features 14 – 16 A world winning shot 18 – 20 Women alone 24 – 26 Finding happiness 31 – 33 A novel way to enjoy books 37 – 39 Fishing a fine line

14-16

40 – 43 Colour your world this spring 70 – 71 Sharing the love of art

Regular 11

News snippets

13

A Day in the Life of…

70-71

37-39

34 – 35 Letters to Live By 45

On the Street

65 – 69 At Home 89 Recipe 77

What’s On

78 – 81 Social pages 92 Gardening 93 – 96 Harcourts Real Estate

65-69

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Editor’s Note

Painful, tired, heavy legs?

Would you love to wear shorts again?

Mental health is a phrase you’ve no doubt heard more and more over recent years. Late last month was Mental Health Awareness week and early next month on November 5, Mike King’s I Am Hope Foundation is hosting ‘Gumboot Friday’ with money raised used locally to help fund urgent counselling sessions for people under 25.

The trust pays for the counselling services, so every dollar raised helps a local young person access support in a desperate situation.

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COMPLIMENTARY, NO OBLIGATION DOCTOR’S VEIN ASSESSMENT & SCAN

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Many of us won’t have had to deal with severe mental health issues, but many of us will have and understand that pain. Alesha Pyers is someone who understands, and is so brave to talk with journalist Jonty Dine for this month’s issue. Her story really does highlight the massive issues that those with mental health issues face, but Alesha’s story is one of perseverance, hope and success.

TSM, publisher of this magazine, is highlighting the need for more funding locally throughout the month of October and in the lead up to Gumboot Friday. You may see some stories in the Nelson Weekly, Waimea Weekly or on the Nelson App. You may also see a QR code (like the one below). If you do, please scan it, it gives an automatic $3 donation to Gumboot Friday.

In a complete change of direction, we get many wonderful comments about stories in the magazine. So, if one of our stories or features has moved you, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can email your letters to editor@nelsonmag.co.nz. The best letter each month will win a prize.

Sarah Board

Reassuringly Local!

EDITOR Sarah Board | editor@nelsonmag.co.nz

Dr David Orsbourn

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Tess Jaine | tess@topsouthmedia.co.nz

MBChB, Dip Obs, FRNZCGP, FACAM Fellow New Zealand Society of Cosmetic Medicine

DESIGN Patrick Connor and Kylie Owens CONTRIBUTORS Tracy Neal, Jonty Dine, Judene Edgar, Adrienne Matthews, Renée Lang, Amy Russ, Virginia Woolf, Aimee Jules, Erin Bradnock

Procedural Phlebology Affiliated Provider to Southern Cross Health Society for Endovenous Laser Treatment and Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy

03 548 8216 www.enhanceskin.co.nz facebook.com/enhanceskin

ADVERTISING Sue Davies | sue@nelsonmag.co.nz

PUBLISHER Street style: Melissa Spratt photographed on the street.

Page 45.

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Your Say What is your favourite book?

Jo Menary

Sally Hogg

Graeme Frew

Catherine Potton

The Book Thief

by Markus Zusak.

Jitterbug Perfume

by Tom Robbins.

Nine Lives by Alan Deere.

An amazing autobiography by a World War 2 soldier.

My grandmother’s memoir, I Remember by Dot Armstrong, about her growing up in the 1920s in Nightcaps, Roxburgh.

Letters to the Editor I write as someone who has recently moved into the Tasman area and is spending increasing amounts of time in Nelson.

That is why I have found the Nelson Magazine to be a most entertaining and informative read.

While lifestyle magazines tend to be skewed to female readers, the Nelson Magazine has something for anyone interested in finding out more about this beautiful part of the world and its eclectic mix of local personalities, be they in business, the arts, academia, the voluntary sector, viticulture, construction or indeed anywhere that individuals are making a worthwhile contribution to the life of the region.

Indeed, so much have my partner and I enjoyed reading the magazine that in addition to my delivered copy, we have had to collect another one from one of your free distribution points to share and then pass on to friends.

Finally, as someone keen to know more about the area, in addition to the varied and well laid out editorial, it is good to see that many of the advertisers use worthwhile editorial in their ad copy, which is both interesting and informative.

However, as well as such display advertisements and features throughout the magazine, I would also like to see more advertisements in the Business Notice Board at the back of the publication, which would provide further helpful advice about local businesses and the availability of a wider range of trades.

Keep up the good work!

Derek Smail Examiner Street, Nelson

Email your letters to editor@nelsonmag.co.nz. The best letter next month will win a set from Living Light Candle’s new Black Iris range.

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Headliners What made news in our region

Wonder women

Sparks are igniting

Mayday

The Nelson Women’s Centre is celebrating 25 years of empowering women. From humble beginnings in a house on Paru Paru Road, to their own location at 44 Trafalgar Street, the Nelson Women’s Centre has been a positive resource for women and children throughout the region.

Founding member Penny Molnar hopes the next 25 years will see them expand their services and reach more women.

The ramped-up Nelson Sparks women’s basketball team have returned and are one of three new teams to compete in the 2021 Schick 3x3 season, to be held in Invercargill this month. 16-year-old Maia Jones has been selected for the team, an extra special moment as she has grown up watching her mum Kat Jones play for the team and her dad Phill play for the Giants. You can see the Sparks fly on SkySport this month.

Local mariners are in safe hands with Coastguard Nelson at the helm. Our local Coastguard crew have recently won an international rescue award for a daring 14-hour rescue carried out in March last year. Coastguard Nelson president Pete Kara says “it was fantastic to receive such a special award from IMRF, which only speaks volumes about the difficulty and bravery of the volunteers’ actions during the rescue.”

Over the Rainbow

Bottoms up

Going the distance

Conditions at Rainbow Ski Field are looking promising for the end of what has been a somewhat challenging season. With Level 2 restrictions in place skiers are encouraged to pack a picnic and use their car as their day lodge when hitting the slopes. The field plans to stay open until 10 October 2021.

Easing lockdowns around the world has resulted in Port Nelson’s wine and bottle exports and imports being busier than ever. After a challenging start to the year, the Port has been relieved to see a record-breaking increase in off-peak season movements of wine and bottle container ships. It seems that the world’s consumers are coming out of lockdowns with an appetite to spend. Cheers to that!

The borders might be shut but that hasn’t stopped thousands of Eastern bar-tailed godwits arriving in the region after a marathon 12,000-kilometre flight from Alaska. Many can now be seen recovering on the Motueka sandspit, they’ll spend their time here eating and enjoying themselves before making the journey back again in March.

Things we love In a time where our local businesses need us most we’re saying ‘We’ve Got You.’ The NRDA’s latest campaign is focused on supporting local business and helping to get that regional money-go-round spinning again. So why not start the Christmas shopping early, head out for your glass of wine, treat yourself for a trip to movies and let’s keep our towns humming.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH

“I could take my cardigan off, instead of having sweat pouring off me, playing the guitar and wanting to strip off and jump in a cold pool, and yell ‘f..k dinosaurs in the back yard, I’m freaking out here!’”

Kath Bee - page 19 -

11

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MOVEMENT THAT INSPIRES

A Day in the Life Of Sarah Bonoma

2pm 3.30pm 5pm 5.45pm

We’ve ordered a new still to help keep up with increasing demand and it’s due to arrive in mid-October. Dave and I work on the installation plan.

I arrive home and I’m immediately met by the kids who would like to play Duplo, “straight away Mummy.” I have to take my business hat off and put my LEGO hat on.

We sit down for a family dinner. My husband, and cofounder Ben, cooks dinner most nights, and tonight he’s whipped up incredible beef cheek tacos.

6.15pm

Lunchtime – there are so many great places to eat in Takaka, I always treat myself to lunch out when I’m here.

Today’s pick is a warm bowl of green curry from O’Sha.

I jump back in the car and head home over the hill have to be home for dinner!

I bathe the girls and get them ready for bed whilst Ben cleans up from dinner. Lots of giggles and shrieking as they splash water all over the bathroom and then run away when I try to catch them in a towel.

7pm

Dave, our distillery manager and I sit down and go through the production plan. Our business has grown significantly in the last 18 months, and we are always working on improving our processes and making production more efficient. We run through upcoming orders for New Zealand and our export markets and prioritise which batches need to be made first and when everything will be ready for shipping.

A group of ladies walk into our cellar door and whenever I’m at the distillery I try to host tastings as often as I can, it’s a chance to connect with customers and hear their feedback first-hand.

Bedtime for the girls and Ben and I sit down to chill. I clear out my emails and then put something on Netflix to unwind from a busy day balancing my roles as managing director, Duplo master, and mum.

9.30pm

6.30am 7am 10am

I arrive at the distillery, it’s already a hive of activity. The team has packed the day’s orders, the still is on making gin and our assistant distiller Jamie is setting up the bottling machine to bottle our tasty Sun Kissed Gin. I have a chat with everyone and check in on how they are.

12pm

I make the girls a quick breakfast and get myself ready to leave for the distillery. We live in Richmond and our distillery is in Takaka, so I am often making trips over the hill to see the team and oversee our production operations.

1pm

I’m woken up abruptly by my two daughters, Mia (6) and Zoe (3) bouncing into my bed. My husband Ben is an early riser and has been up since 5am. Maggie, our three-monthold labradoodle puppy greets me at the kitchen door as if she hasn’t seen me for days. A good start to the day!

9am

Sarah Bonoma is the founder and managing director of Dancing Sands. When she’s not distilling award-winning gin, Sarah is spending time with her puppy, family and enjoying Netflix.

I put Maggie to bed in her crate and then head to bed myself, both Maggie and I are asleep before our heads hit the pillow.

13

A world winning

SHOT

Nelson-born Aimee Jan has made it into the ranks of the world’s top ocean photographers with her chance shot of a Ningaloo Reef turtle, which appears to have popped out of its cave to pose especially for her. Tracy Neal spoke with Aimee from her home in Exmouth, Western Australia, about how it all happened.

T

he moment Aimee Jan fell in love with the ocean is not entirely clear. It’s possible it has simply coursed through her since the day she was born.

Or perhaps it was the childhood influence of growing up on the Nelson waterfront, the swimming clubs she was part of, or her summer holidays in Golden Bay with best friend Amy Jamieson.

“I think I was maybe six or seven years-old when I began to be fascinated by the ocean and whales. Mum is still not really sure where that came from but possibly the documentaries we watched growing up.”

The 36-year-old is still reeling from just having won a globally prestigious ocean photography competition, judged by a panel of the world’s leading ocean photographers.

“When I got the news I had won the award I couldn’t actually believe it. I was gobsmacked, really, and very, very honoured.”

The competition is staged by London-based Oceanographic Magazine and judged by International Photography Hall of Fame inductee Paul Nicklen, founder of the International League of Conservation Photographers, Cristina Mittermeier, and Emmy Award-winning cinematographer Shawn Heinrichs.

The awards showcase images by photographers from around the world and reflect themes of conservation, exploration and adventure.

Aimee’s striking photo of an endangered turtle among glass fish not only won this year’s Ocean Photographer of the Year Award, but it also got her nominated as a finalist in the competition’s new category, the Female Fifty Fathoms Award which celebrates inspirational women in ocean photography.

“I’ve looked up to photographers like Paul and Christina for the longest time, so having them see my photograph and having it stand out to them, is just…huge, huge, huge for me.

“It’s a massive kick up the butt for me to do more.”

An endangered turtle among glass fish was Aimee’s photo which won this year’s Ocean Photographer of the Year Award.

AIMEE JAN

Aimee works as an undersea photographer for tour company, Whale Shark Dive in Western Australia, where she started as a guide 10 years ago.

Australia beckoned her from Nelson as a 20-year-old, firstly to the Gold Coast where Aimee started surfing and scuba diving, and then further west. The year she had originally planned to be away has turned into 16 years.

“My friends were travelling around Western Australia and they came across the Ningaloo Reef. One my friends, who knew me really well, told me I needed to be there because there were whale sharks and whales, and the reef was amazing.”

It was enough to convince her to visit, and soon decide to make it home.

Aimee first picked up a camera as a youngster, and then did photography as a student at Nelson College for Girls. She took up underwater photography while on the Gold Coast, then bought her first proper set-up, a Canon G12 once in WA. Aimee says underwater photography takes a lot of practise.

“The cameras are slightly different, a lot of other elements come into play, such as water clarity – and it can be quite dark, there are particles and if you’re dealing with wildlife then it’s moving.”

Aimee Jan

She says getting paid to take photographs under the sea is a dream job, “100 per cent”, especially within the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ningaloo Marine Park.

It was during a back-of-reef snorkel that a friend called her over to say there were heaps of glass fish in a cave, and a turtle among them.

“I looked and it was just amazing. The glassfish just opened up around the turtle and framed it perfectly, just in enough time for me to take a photo before I needed to come up for air.”

Aimee agrees it appears as if the turtle is trying to talk to her, which is why it stood out.

“Photographers like myself are always just trying to capture a connection between an animal and ourselves, and it is hard to capture, so when it happens and you nail the photo, it’s a winning combo.”

Aimee says the turtle had been resting, and seemed amused by her camera and its housing, almost as if he was “checking himself out”.

“I came to the surface and yelled ‘I think I just got the best photo I’ve ever taken!’”

It turns out, she was right. Oceanographic Magazine editor, Will Harrison, described it as simply sensational – a standout among the thousands of entries and the extraordinarily strong final three.

“It’s a gorgeous shot, the turtle almost looks like it’s posing.

It looks like a portrait, the baitfish in the background also look like they’ve posed. It’s a sensational photo,” he said on a social media video feed to announce the winners.

“Aimee should be enormously proud, given the enormous array of top quality images we had this year.”

Wildlife biologist Lizzie Daly, who assisted with the announcement, called it a powerful shot.

“I don’t even know where to start with this, it’s so powerful.”

Aimee says she is waiting for global borders to re-open before making any decision on what next. She was committed to her job, which was about to wrap up for the season, and she hoped to be able to make it back to Nelson to see family, especially her parents Mary and Peter Jan. “It’s been tough not having seen Mum and Dad in so long. I usually come home each year.”

Aimee’s ultimate goal is to keep photographing wildlife.

“If this [award] helps me in any way then that’s amazing, but I really want to raise awareness of the ocean and conservation.

“If you look out to the ocean, yeah, it looks beautiful, but you have no idea what’s underneath.”

Aimee’s photo is currently part of an exhibition of photographs from the competition on display near Tower Bridge, central London.

16

October 2021

S

Swift – a good fit.

arah Goodfellow would describe her life as ‘busy’. The BNZ business partner, and mum of two, says often her second job is as a taxi driver for her young children.

Sarah spends a lot of time in the car between school and kindergarten pick-ups, running around to sports matches, playdates, all while juggling paid employment.

When she picked up her brand-new 2021 Suzuki Swift Sport, she had a pre-conceived idea that it would be sluggish, slow and tight on space.

She was a little worried that the Swift may not keep up with her busy lifestyle and running around after the kids. But by the time she had driven home from Dayman’s, those thoughts had completely disappeared.

“It was so much better than our expectations. We had both the car seats in the back, and we were off, it literally blew us away.”

She describes the new model of Swift as a real “pocket rocket”. In fact, her favourite thing about the car was its getup and go.

“It really surprised both me and my husband, there was a lot of power when you put your foot down.”

Lockdown put a stop on a lot of the day-to-day running around but the family of four made the most of their new vehicle and took it for a spin at any opportunity.

She noticed people would ask about the car, where it came from, and how it handled.

“One couple came up to us and said they had bought the same car and were just raving about it; it was really cool.”

The Swift was a far cry from the two large SUVs which normally fill the driveway, but a welcome change as it was so much easier to park.

The reversing camera only adds to the great visibility from the driver’s seat.

Dayman’s Suzuki Cnr Collingwood St and Halifax St, Nelson daymans.co.nz

17-inch alloy wheels, aerodynamic skirts, honeycomb grille, twin exhausts, rear diffuser and rear spoiler combine to make this car visually impressive to look at.

Sarah says this is only amplified when you get inside.

Her favourite feature was the 7-inch multimedia display which her phone easily connected with to play through the six-speaker audio system.

“All the dials are easy to see, and it has all the bells and whistles you would expect in a modern car. It was such a cool car. It was really fun, the kids loved it too.”

She encourages anyone who has preconceptions of the Swift to get in the driver’s seat.

“They need to go and drive one. It was a bit sad to give it back.”

17

Women, alone More women than men above the age of 50 live alone in New Zealand, and the number is rising. In Nelson-Tasman-Marlborough, where housing and living costs rate among the highest in the country, we asked three women what it’s like to survive on their own. Tracy Neal reports.

I

rish poet Oscar Wilde once said it is healthy to know how to be alone, and not defined by another.

Those who live alone say there are pluses and minuses – you get to watch your own television programmes late into the night, pick your own interior colour scheme, shop for your preferred food and choose your own holiday destinations.

The drawbacks are lack of companionship, but are largely economic in a world where equal pay is still a pipedream for plenty. The legacy of this tends to show up down the track at about retirement age.

The report by Dr M Claire Dale and Susan St John says women are more likely to arrive at retirement without secure housing and have less savings because of caring duties and lower wages. They are therefore more likely to experience greatly restricted lifestyles in retirement.

The 2018 Census shows the ratio of men living alone is higher across all age groups until the age of 55. From then, the graph switches rapidly, with women living alone far outnumbering men.

Death of a spouse is the main reason, followed by divorce.

A Nelson City Council report shows most of Nelson’s older people currently own their own home, but home ownership rates are expected to be lower for older people in the future.

Nelson children’s songwriter and entertainer Kath Bee has spent much of her adult life devoted to entertaining young children.

A 2020 University of Auckland Business School report on women and retirement in a post Covid-19 world points to the economic disadvantages many women face as they near their mid-60s.

The 56-year-old lives alone, which she feels she has “done forever”, even though she had had partners with whom she has shared a home.

JOHN-PAUL POCHIN

18

October 2021

Children’s songwriter Kath Bee says the best part of living alone is having her own space and being able to do whatever she wants, whenever she wants.

Kath owns her own home, having picked fruit, worked as a cleaner, as a tour guide at Pic’s Peanut Butter and various other jobs that have helped pay the bills around her Kath Bee career.

It has not been easy. Menopause hit severely when she was 48, prompting a complete change that saw Kath take a break from entertainment and a move to Auckland for 18 months.

“I couldn’t perform. The hot flushes were constant through the day and night. I’d feel like death warmed up in the morning, I’d go off to a performance and have a massive hot flush. I just couldn’t cope.”

Kath says the shift to Auckland and a role as a mathematics presenter, sharing hands-on math activities with school-aged children was good for taking some of the pressure off.

“I could take my cardigan off, instead of having sweat pouring off me, playing the guitar and wanting to strip off and jump in a cold pool, and yell ‘f..k dinosaurs in the back yard, I’m freaking out here!’”

Kath says the best part of living alone is having her own space and being able to do whatever she wants, whenever she wants. The drawbacks have emerged in recent years.

“As I get older it seems harder to live alone, and I think it’s to do with confidence. I used to have all the confidence in the world to bash a nail in the wall or put up a shelf, but these days I’m worried about leaving a big hole in the wall.

Having to do everything herself is sometimes hard.

I could take my cardigan off, instead of having sweat pouring off me, playing the guitar and wanting to strip off and jump in a cold pool, and yell ‘f..k dinosaurs in the back yard, I’m freaking out here!’

Kath Bee

“There’s no sharing the household stuff. I know there are a lot of people who live with partners who don’t feel supported and, in many ways, that’s worse.

“There are certainly things I miss about living with somebody.

There’s no one to reassure you, to bounce ideas off – there’s no one to ease the worries you’ve got, or to help make decisions, and I really miss the pillow talk!”

Kath is now at a crossroads, wondering about her future. The knock to her confidence has influenced whether she wants to continue her song-writing and entertaining role.

TRACY NEAL

Gillian Williams

She feels it may be linked to exhaustion from being self-employed, touring, part-time jobs, grief and lockdown uncertainties.

“Lockdown has given me time to soul-search and wonder if I can continue. I think I'm at the point where I just want a 'normal' job to take the pressure off.”

The Auckland University report also says that post Covid-19, women will continue to be more likely than men to be reliant on superannuation alone, but New Zealand women are more fortunate in the design of the state pension compared to women in Australia or Ireland.

Gillian Williams says she has had “a lot of practise” living alone. The 82-year-old businesswoman, board member and recipient of a Queen’s Service Medal for her services to volunteering, is fortunate to be financially independent, but in her lifetime she has endured the loss of two husbands.

“My first husband Graham died 26 years ago from cancer. l remarried 14 years ago to John, but unfortunately he was diagnosed with terminal cancer. He lived for only 20 months after we were married.”

Gillian moved to Nelson 18 years ago from her hometown in Greymouth, where her late husband Graham and son Tony owned and operated a 105-room tourist hotel.

She says living alone is a good prompt for taking up new opportunities, but she recognises she is lucky to have maintained good health and the means to take on new adventures.

“I’m very content with my life. I enjoy caring for other people from all walks of life, and sitting outside in the sun, talking

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I’m very content with my life. I enjoy caring for other people from all walks of life, and sitting outside in the sun, talking to so many people as they pass by, but it’s fair to say there are difficulties – the night times. I get a bit lonely at night, especially around Covid lockdown times.

Gillian Williams

to so many people as they pass by but it’s fair to say there are difficulties – the night times. I get a bit lonely at night, especially around Covid lockdown times.”

There have been times she has needed to call in a tradesperson, which in Helen’s case is where she has noticed a big disadvantage in being a woman on her own.

Gillian has led a busy and hugely varied life, including gaining her heavy traffic licence when she was 18 so she could drive trucks for the contracting business she ran with Graham. She had three children by the age of 21 and is now blessed with 10 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

“Undoubtedly there are good and bad tradespeople.

Anecdotally they have a reputation for taking “mature ladies” for a ride and while there is probably some truth in that, my personal take on this is that if I receive a substandard job and it’s happened to me only once, I pursue them through the appropriate legal and professional channels.

She continues to be active as a volunteer, including with the Cancer Society’s Nelson division.

“I look upon things always with a ‘glass half-full’ approach.

“My advice to anyone living alone is, if you’re able, make sure you get out and about, meet people, say ‘hello’ to people. I did find it a bit hard to break into Nelson when I first came here, but opportunities came along and I grabbed them.”

Gillian’s latest new activity is developing her role as a Ngāi Tahu kaumātua, by learning Te Reo Māori and researching her genealogy.

In New Zealand, older working age people (45-64 years) who are living alone have the second highest rate of income poverty after sole parents. This has doubled from 10 per cent in 1988 to 23 per cent in the early 2000s. It is currently at 29 per cent.

Helen, a professional career woman, says aside from the obvious reasons why increasing numbers of women are on their own, another is that women are choosing to live alone.

“Circumstances such as divorce (as in my case) may necessitate living alone initially, but once you get a taste for the independence and creative freedom it becomes a comfortable and enjoyable state to be in.”

She says it has its advantages, as well as its challenges brought to the fore by the need to constantly upskill herself to tackle renovations on the Edwardian villa she bought.

“That apart, there are some excellent tradies who are professional and go above and beyond.”

A project she has flagged for her retirement is to set up a “positive register” of tradespeople.

“Most feedback/review mechanisms focus on the negative, however we know positive reinforcement works so much better, in so many areas of life.

“This register would simply list tradespeople who come recommended by women managing homes alone. If a subsequent poor report was received they would be removed from the register.

“It would be great if it became the go-to place for finding tradies.”

Helen says another challenge for women living alone can be issues around security.

“Nobody wants to live in a fortress but there are now relatively accessible security systems you can get that link to your phone.

“The best security of all though, is community, and I’m fortunate to have great neighbours who all look out for one another.”

She says she would not write-off sharing a home again, but it would have to be with somebody very special, to entice her away from the lifestyle she has created for herself.

“I’ve done most of the decorating. I’ve restored a fireplace, reputtied windows and recently re-grouted the kitchen tiles.”

seum u m r o o Nelson’s favourite outd

y r free e n t

* n a m s o r m f a s l N T a e & l c s o n o l r ...fo

*Except during public events

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October 2021

IT support for local businesses Spark New Zealand are helping give local businesses an edge in the ever-changing world of Information Technology (IT). With their finger on the pulse for everything digital, Spark are able to tie all business IT needs into one neat, steam lined, package to help each business become more productive and sustainable.

Shane McKay, owner of Spark Business Upper South, is focused on finding the best tech solutions for his clients.

W

hen it comes to all thing’s internet, Shane McKay, owner of Spark Business Upper South, knows what he is talking about. He first started working for the company in 2009 before buying into the business in 2016. Shane and his dedicated team are focused on finding the best tech solutions for each and every client, helping them to stay on track and heading in the right direction.

For Nelson-based company, Freeman Group, - New Zealand's largest family-owned roof and rainwater products manufacturer - having Spark help them make the transition from old, outdated IT systems to a more comprehensive and modern set-up was a game-changer. Jill Barr, Freeman Group Financial Controller, says, “our cellphones, land-lines, internet and IT used to all be under separate contracts and with different suppliers. Now that we are working with Spark, and their partners PC Media, these areas are all bundled together which makes really good sense because the functions are so connected. We now have one point of contact, get great service, have achieved some good savings and have much better visibility over these areas. It has been great to have all these eggs in the one safe and well-managed basket.”

In the ever-changing world of IT, and understanding the need for reliability and productivity, Shane and his team are committed to making a transition as smooth as possible,

offering local expertise and support. Spark Business Hub Tasman has products which can be tailored to suit each individual business’s needs.

Another area of interest for many businesses recently is IoT, otherwise known as the ‘Internet of Things’. IoT encompasses every object or ‘thing’ connected to the internet. From sensors to smartphones, vehicles to entire buildings, IoT is made up of connected devices that ‘talk’ to each other while collecting useful information that isn't available otherwise. For example, arrays of connected moisture sensors monitoring the condition of fields on a farm and constantly relaying that data to the farmer’s computer, or asset-tracking tags on the containers of a freight company allowing them to track where they’re currently located.

Spark predicts that around 22 million ‘things’ will be connected in Aotearoa by the end of 2021. They believe our country is ready for a more sustainable and productive future, and that their Internet of Things can help make it happen.

Spark Business Hub Tasman Ph 0800 482 827 173 Haven Road, Nelson spark.co.nz/business

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NELSON & TASMAN WIDE, WE’RE PART OF YOUR COMMUNITY

69 Haven Road, Nelson | www.simplicity.co.nz

Phone 03 539 0066

Keynote: Dr Charles Berde Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School

The 78th annual Thomas Cawthron Memorial Lecture Learn how Cawthron’s science is contributing to global innovation in post-operative pain relief.

Featuring: Dr Johan Svenson Cawthron Institute

Andy Selwood Cawthron Institute

Live-stream at 5.30pm Tuesday 19 October 2021 Find out more: www.cawthron.org.nz/lecture

Tony McCombe, Tania Parr and Zach Parr get ready to take off in a GCH Aviation helicopter.

A flying escape Flying high above the usual world of medical procedures and family turmoil – an exciting escape even for just a few hours. This was how Nelson pilot Tony McCombe decided he could help children and their families cope with serious and ongoing health issues.

I

Words: Renée Lang

t was in 2015 when he came up with the idea of offering children in extreme circumstances the opportunity to experience a dedicated flight in a helicopter or aeroplane.

At the time he was living in Dunedin and commuting to Auckland on a week on-week off basis to fly the Starship air ambulance. His earlier flying experience for a commercial airline had made him aware that quite a few flights took off with empty seats and it was this fact that led to Uplift in Kind being born.

It started with him visiting some charities in Auckland to ask if they would support the concept. Not surprisingly, they thought it was a great idea. And by working with these charities Tony could be assured that the kids they put forward for a flying experience would be those who would really benefit from it.

“I suppose it was a kind of ‘give back’ from what I learned from when I was a kid,” says Tony of his own involvement.

He’s certainly no stranger to dealing with familial health issues; his older brother Mark was born with a disability and so his family had had a lot to do with the organisation that used to be known as IHC. “Dad did accounting for the Dunedin branch and as kids we would help with the annual collecting appeals.”

The children – and teenagers – who are put forward for a flight now come from all over the country, which made it important for Tony to expand the concept nationwide. He sees what Uplift in Kind is doing as a kind of “dating service in the middle” between the charities they work with and a partner group of aviation businesses.

Earlier this year he and his partner relocated to Nelson where he now flies part time on the local air ambulance. During a busy week he can dedicate anywhere between 20 and 30 hours to Uplift in Kind without any administrative assistance.

Although Tony is very proud of what he’s achieved so far, and while he’d really appreciate help with the latter, his fondest wish is to have enough funds to support a full-time camera crew to record all the experiences. “We get some support from the Lindsay Foundation (whose mission is to support Kiwi individuals and organisations who aspire to make a positive difference in New Zealand), which helps with doing some video production.” Tony would also welcome anyone who would like to contribute their skill in graphic design and social media marketing.

If you or your organisation – aviation-related or not – is interested in helping support this great initiative or perhaps just want to see some of the fun they provide, follow Upliftinkind on facebook or email Tony at tony@upliftinkind.com

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KAYLA PYERS

Finding happiness Alesha Pyers’ road to happiness was paved with self-sabotage, depression, and ultimately a suicide attempt. Today, however, the 25-year-old beauty’s bubbly personality exudes positivity. She talks to Jonty Dine about how she learned to love herself and rediscover her passion for life.

A

lesha was born and bred in Nelson, surrounded by family.

“I had a village of people around me,” she says. “I’m really lucky in that sense.”

However, an idyllic childhood made way for an emotionally turbulent adolescence.

After Alesha started high school, her battle with depression intensified.

Her school peer group had a toxic culture of poor mental health, eating disorders and self-harm.

“It was all unaddressed. We asked if we could learn how to help our friends, but they said it was too sensitive, so there was a lot that was overlooked.”

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October 2021

Because Alesha was not harming herself or engaging in bulimia, she did not consider her struggles with mental health to be relevant.

“I was diagnosed with depression at 14 and put on medication, but I never thought mine was so bad.”

Alesha says she was given little guidance about her newlyprescribed medications.

“They made me feel numb, not good or bad, just numb.”

Alesha’s friends would also regularly confide in her, adding extra weight to her shoulders as she carried the weight of their pain.

After high school, Alesha enjoyed three gap years before setting her sights on studying in Dunedin.

A keen sportswoman in college, Alesha opted to study neuroscience. However, she would soon sink into a dark place.

“I kept crying about how I want babies. Before that I couldn’t care less if I died or not.”

“I was not in the best place. I hadn’t been for a few years.”

She says the hardest part came when her family arrived at the emergency department.

Alesha began drinking heavily, taking drugs and having casual sexual encounters.

One particularly toxic break-up and a bad bout of strep throat would further emotionally wear her down.

“It was a huge reminder that I can never put them through that again. I was so clouded in this thought that they were better without me being a burden on them.”

The voices in her head and her relationship with drugs and alcohol became more volatile.

Alesha moved home to Nelson, obtained a life coach, psychotherapist and began to attend addiction meetings.

I didn’t have any hope and my morals went out the window.

I couldn’t relate to who I was anymore. I just had a complete lack of self-care and really started to feel I’d be better off not in this world.

“It went from being fun and a good time to an escape from reality.”

Alesha was also struggling with concussion symptoms.

“I got two concussions playing rugby and a third from slipping in a nightclub, hitting my head twice on a windowsill and the floor.”

This added further fog to an already clouded mind.

“I was having really bad mood swings, struggling to concentrate and was constantly fatigued. I would be midway through a sentence and just stop, I couldn’t track what the thought was, which was really frustrating.”

Alesha says it was during this period that her self-disdain became deafening.

“I started to absolutely hate myself, I felt like I was just a piece of shit.”

She would then seek validation for these negative beliefs through her vices.

“I didn’t have any hope and my morals went out the window.

I couldn’t relate to who I was anymore. I just had a complete lack of self-care and really started to feel I’d be better off not in this world.”

After feeling suicidal for eight months, Alesha hit her rock bottom with a terrifying thud.

“I had a really bad night in town, came home and tried to end my life.”

Alesha spent six days in the cardiac ward.

“It was pretty awful and quite scary.”

However, as she began to sober up, it dawned on her that she did not want to die.

This was reinforced when the heart monitor in the adjacent room flatlined.

“I had been in and out of consciousness, but when I thought it was my machine I woke up screaming. It was horrific, it became so real.”

Alesha opened up to a nurse about her dreams and desire to keep living.

Alesha during one of her darkest days in Dunedin Hospital after attempting to take her own life.

Alesha says partying was entrenched in the culture of university life.

“Everyone would binge drink and have one-night stands. It wasn’t until my life was on the line from this self-sabotage that I realised I had destructive addictive tendencies.”

She says this period was extremely confronting but ultimately reformed the relationship she had with herself.

“I now have a deeper understanding of the psychology behind why I was behaving the way I was, and I am extremely proud of how I have mended a part of myself I used to hate.”

She also began volunteering at Victory Boxing with sufferers of Parkinson’s Disease.

“It saved me in a way, it gave me a purpose. The people were so beautiful and positive.”

Alesha’s successes since her darkest day illustrates the potential that could have been lost forever.

“I guess a huge part of my new mindset over the past few years has been to learn, learn, learn. I am on a constant mission to keep upskilling personally and professionally.”

Since that day, Alesha has run four half marathons, was awarded the Prime Minister’s Scholarship to study supply chain management in India, was named a finalist for the ID International Emerging Designers Awards, completed a bachelor’s degree in fashion design with distinction, completed a certificate in finance management, was invited to work at events for New Zealand

25

I’ve slowed down a lot. I am working on mindfulness and appreciate every small moment of the day.

Fashion Week, and is currently studying for a certificate in small business.

After focusing on her well-being, Alesha set about pursuing her dream of working in fashion.

“It was the best decision ever. I was learning skills I was really interested in.”

One of her proudest projects began a year to the day after her suicide attempt.

To mark the anniversary, Alesha used a laser cutter to create earrings in the shape of a heartbeat.

After posting to social media, she was quickly inundated with offers to buy a pair.

What followed was plenty of late nights, up until 3am making hundreds of earrings, the profits of which were all donated to charity.

This also led to speaking at events where she shared her story of hope.

Alesha has helped promote mental well-being through her earrings shaped as the electrical pulse of a heartbeat.

“It was aimed to spark conversation and I got so many messages from others, which was really motivating.”

In 2021, her career reached new heights when she was named a finalist for the ID International Emerging Designers Awards.

Her collection addressed some of the issues she faced on her mental health journey.

“It was a very healing experience.”

Today, Alesha has a seemingly unquenchable thirst for life.

“I’d love to have my own fashion label, I really want a family, and I’d love to do more travelling.”

“That’s why I hid it, as I saw a lot of people struggling with that label. It shouldn’t get to the point that someone is gone to realise they were actually sick.”

Alesha says a lack of understanding is still prevalent when addressing mental health.

“I put more energy into focusing on how badly I felt than taking small steps to get out.”

“We lost a friend in 2018 and it was so heartbreaking because there were so many opportunities for the system to intervene, people let her down in that way. My family are the most beautiful people, but they found it hard not knowing what to do.”

She says self-hatred is consuming.

She says everyone’s journey is different.

“I’ve slowed down a lot. I am working on mindfulness and appreciate every small moment of the day.”

“Just chucking medication on someone or telling them to exercise can be a negative, it’s about balance and finding what’s right for you.”

Alesha says if she was to talk to her 2015 self, she would simply say to ‘take it easy’.

Alesha now takes time out of her day to stop and appreciate the small things in life.

“I take a lot of photos, if I see a pretty leaf, clouds or sunset.

It sounds cheesy, but I actively look for the really beautiful things and moments around me.”

Alesha says she still has moments where she feels flat but now has the tools to ensure she never gets too low again.

“I have rewired my brain. I have dark patches, but I look back at what I have achieved and the amazing people I have in my life, and I am proud of how far I have come.”

Alesha says one of the biggest deterrents for young women seeking help is the fear they will be accused of seeking attention.

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October 2021

For Alesha, reconnecting with nature played a prominent role in her recovery.

“You have to put yourself first. If you don’t go to school for a day or two to take care of yourself, that’s ok. Don’t feel like you have to be struggling through the day. Sometimes it’s just those really small moments of the day, like a beach walk, that can change your whole mindset. There is nothing more important than your wellness.”

WHERE TO GET HELP Ph: 0800 543 354 nmdhb.govt.nz/health-services

The dream team of home-staging

M

eeting with Ana Stevenson at her Open Home Ready warehouse, which is reminiscent of a New York loft, you are immediately drawn to a space brimming with her vast collection of home furnishings. The tools of her trade, combined with Ana’s creativity and inspiration, compliment exactly what is needed to sell a home.

complemented our colour schemes brilliantly and she did an absolutely outstanding job.”

Ana and her innovative team bring their wealth of knowledge, experience, and styling vision to help make a home the best it can be.

Extremely proud of the business she has built, Ana is fully invested and passionate about delivering perfection, personally overseeing each project. Her background in real estate has given her a huge insight into exactly what it is that sells a home. "We make the whole process seamless with the agents. It takes one phone call to us, and we have the ability to get it all done. Because of my background I understand intrinsically what they want."

Each house has its own unique personality, says creative director Ana, and requires its own individual process of mindmapping. "Staging a home is not a cookie-cutter system. I like to walk the space myself. I am a very visual and creative person.

From the moment I arrive at a consultation I can envisage how specific furniture and decor will be placed in the area."

"Home-staging is about using the space in the most effective way. I take the personality from each house and also give a nod to the era of that home."

Ana says it is her extremely capable and creative team that sets them apart from other companies. Her daughter Mia Weeks, creative director in-waiting, explains that her mother has a certain intuitiveness when it comes to interior design. "It is an innate thing with Ana, like a sixth-sense".

Open Home Ready offer a range of services and packages to help get properties into shape for the property market.

Operations manager, Zinnia Foster, says that each home-stage is bespoke and has many different variables depending on the client's needs. Multi-talented Tara Gale rounds out the team. “Tara is able to turn her at hand to anything within the process,” says Ana. Brent Ferretti, a recent client, says Ana was able to complement his home perfectly with her creativity. “Ana put that magic touch onto what we had already built. Her finishes

"We are very passionate about the process," says Ana, "It is the nicest thing to see the difference we have made from the beginning to the end result. We draw the eye away from any faults and bring it through to enhance its strengths."

Real Estate agent Caroline Fletcher has worked with Ana for many years and says vendors have one chance to make a first impression on potential buyers. “The appeal of the home really has to resonate with people and Ana makes that happen. She helps to achieve the very best out of a home while taking the guess work out for buyers. She is a vital cog in our wheel.”

As if her business wasn’t enough to keep her creativity nourished, Ana is also ‘knee-deep’ in a personal project renovating an iconic double-bay villa at 28 Nile St which will be a showcase for ‘Ana Stevenson Stylist’ launching in March, 2022.

Contact Ana to find out how her Open Home Ready team can help.

As Ana says, ‘we don’t rent furniture – we sell creativity.”

Open Home Ready openhomeready.co.nz @openhomeready

PROMOTION

27

DANIEL ALLEN

The wind beneath their blades – NBS Rescue Helicopter Appeal lifts off in October 500 lives a year is a reward no money can buy for the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust and its crew, but saving lives doesn’t come for free.

N

BS is firing up this year’s Rescue Helicopter Appeal in October, aiming to give a significant boost to the funding of the $1.2 - 1.5M a-year service. The annual monthlong October appeal is the second appeal run by NBS and part of NBS’ ongoing sponsorship and commitment to the rescue service.

Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter general manager Paula Muddle said the Trust has taken another financial hit this year due to Covid-19, so the NBS Rescue Helicopter Appeal aims to raise as much as possible to make up the half a million dollar shortfall.

“As an essential service, the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter is a constant, regardless of lockdowns, continuing to save people who find themselves in life-threatening situations around the region,” Paula said.

Those who find themselves or a loved one in danger – whether from accidental injury or sickness - will attest to the comfort and relief that the words “the helicopter is on its way” can bring. Then the thud-thud-thud of the blades, the unbelievably strong down drafts, and a human voice and hand reaching out.

In difficult situations there could be a winch, a rescuer coming down on a rope out of the sky. There’s always a calm voice and people who know what to do and are trained, just for this.

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October 2021

Keeping the helicopter service in the air is vital to the lives and wellbeing of our community. It’s a testament to how we look after each other, that sponsorship, fundraising, and donations contribute 60% of the costs to keep the chopper and its crew in the air – the other 40% comes from the DHB and ACC. NBS CEO Tony Cadigan said the entire NBS team feels strongly about supporting the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust.

“NBS aims to make a meaningful difference in our community, so being a major sponsor of the Trust and facilitating this annual appeal is clearly aligned to this goal”, Cadigan said.

“We are extremely impressed at the expertise and commitment the crew bring to the job, regardless of the situation. It is not a job for the faint-hearted, they are amazing.

“The community has always shown fantastic support of the rescue chopper and we hope this year’s appeal is no different.”

Paula agrees, saying that the support of the community is “always amazing”, and helped the Trust bounce back after the disruption of last year’s Covid-19 outbreak.

“We are incredibly grateful for the community’s support, and in particular for NBS’ ongoing financial assistance. With everyone’s help we bounced back financially after last year’s lockdown, and with more hard work and community support, I am sure we can do it again this year.”

PROMOTION

The surgeon was pretty blunt with me and said that if I hadn’t got to surgery when I did, it would not have ended well for me. I’m just so grateful that the helicopter came and that they knew what to do.

Laura Sixtus

Nelson ICU nurse Lesa Hall knew when her five-year-old son Liam fell off his bike in Golden Bay that he was in a lot of pain, and that she was a long way from specialist care, so she rang 111.

TIM CUFF

“They said they would send an ambulance but then they rang back and said that he sounded like he was in a lot of pain so they would send the helicopter instead.”

She says she felt a huge relief when she heard it coming, and that the crew were amazing.

“If the helicopter had not been available we would have been looking at a two-hour drive to Nelson, with a very distressed boy in a lot of pain – a horrible experience for everyone. I am just so grateful they were able to help us.

The rescue helicopter crew is made up of pilots, crewmen and intensive care flight paramedics. In the year to April 2021 they flew 565 missions. One of them was on Anzac Day, when they plucked Golden Bay farmer Laura Sixtus from a remote hut on the West Coast, following an accident on a quad bike.

Laura’s quad bike beach ride with friends turned into a nightmare when the bike she was a passenger on collided with a rock in bad light. She was thrown over the handlebars and had multiple visible injuries – including concussion, a

TIM CUFF

John Tame

TIM CUFF

Laura Sixtus

broken arm, hand and nose – but the hidden danger was a potentially fatal perforated bowel, which required emergency surgery when she reached Nelson hospital.

“The surgeon was pretty blunt with me and said that if I hadn’t got to surgery when I did it would not have ended well for me.

“I’m just so grateful that the helicopter came and that they knew what to do.”

The helicopter crew are all fully paid these days rather than volunteers and are on standby all day every day. They are able to deliver such a high quality life-saving service, using highly specialised equipment, thanks to financial support from the community and their sponsors.

In July this year, they were called out to look for a missing tramper in rough country in the Kahurangi National Park.

John Tame got lost on an overnight tramp to Boulder Lake Hut and after losing the route and falling from a bluff, found himself alone and hallucinating in rugged country, with dehydration and hypothermia affecting his mental state.

Good planning meant he had a rescue beacon with him and the helicopter was able to winch him out of the deep river valley he found himself in. He was lucky to survive the fall and to have enough strength to recognise that he needed to set off the beacon and get help.

“This experience has had a lasting impact on me. I was so relieved when I heard the helicopter, and they were able to get to me. I am just grateful that I got out and that they were able to find and save me.”

John was winched to safety and spent three days in Nelson Hospital, but he said his full recovery will take a lot longer.

During the appeal in October, kids can get involved with a colouring competition and some great prizes including a chance to meet the rescue crew at the hangar – keep an eye on the NBS Facebook page for more details.

Liam and Lesa

The appeal will run through the month of October, with donations accepted at any NBS branch or online, nbshelicopterappeal.nz

PROMOTION

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An update on KiwiSaver The saving scheme has now been around for 14 years and as it has matured there have been some positive changes in recent times that you may not know about.

YOU CAN BUILD YOUR OWN FUNDS There is growing innovation in KiwiSaver. There are providers where you can build your own portfolio using multiple fund managers and direct investments.

You would usually need a reasonable amount of funds to make it worthwhile, and professional advice would be an important component if you went down this route.

FEES ARE COMING DOWN AND SOME ARE ZERO There is definitely downward pressure on KiwiSaver fees which overall is a good thing. There are now funds that do not charge any fees at all for managing your KiwiSaver. A bit like anything though, sometimes you get what you pay for, fees are important but not the only consideration for your savings.

There is always a balance to be had between cost and the value you get. KiwiSaver funds are no different. There are funds that have low fees but still charge too much for what you get, and there are some very well-run funds that perform better than low cost funds.

SOME ETHICAL FUNDS ARE MORE ETHICAL THAN OTHERS We have provided advice on socially responsible KiwiSaver and other funds since 2008. The advances have been great in recent years and there are now some seriously good ethical fund managers. It is still a good idea to get help to look under the bonnet of your provider though, as there are still many marginal calls of what is considered an ethical fund.

Mark Sheehan is an award-winning Certified Financial Planner and Financial Advisor offering impartial advice in Nelson since 2008.

Ph 03 548 2752 sheehanfinancial.co.nz Advice is of a general nature and not intended as personalised advice.

PROMOTION

TESS JAINE

Anne Bandoli, Adrianna Hyde, Myles Payne, Liz Todhunter and Robyn Packer enjoy meeting for books, wine, and nibbles in Mapua.

A novel way to enjoy books Book clubs are not a new concept but one that is increasingly popular, especially when you add wine and cheese. Adrienne Matthews takes a look at a couple of Nelson's book clubs.

B

ook clubs are rarely just about reading books. They are social gatherings that bring people together from often diverse backgrounds, where life experiences are shared, ideas are challenged and where friendships are formed.

They aren’t even a 20th or 21st century thing. There are records of groups gathering in the time of Socrates 400BC to talk about writing. Fast forward to the luscious French salons of the 19th century where women, liberated from the throes of the Industrial Revolution gathered to improve their conversation, flaunt their finery and discuss their latest reads.

The trend spread across the globe. By the end of the 19th century it is estimated there were over two million Americans in book clubs.

New Zealand’s first book clubs were the Worker’s Educational Association (WEA) study circles established in 1915. By 1926 sets of books were being transported around Canterbury and the West Coast and in 1973 the WEA’s Book Discussion Scheme (BDS) was formed to provide sets of books to groups around the country.

It is thanks to American talk show host, Oprah Winfrey that book groups exploded in numbers across the globe in the 1990s.

The launch of her own book club where she promoted “must reads” sent the world into reading hysteria, something that has never abated with book club culture firmly entrenched in most countries of the world.

There are many types of book clubs in New Zealand. The BDS scheme continues to grow with 50 affiliated groups in Nelson and 1300 nationwide. For a modest membership fee, each group is sent a set of the same books either monthly or bi-monthly along with a set of notes to aid with discussion.

There are more than 1000 titles in their collection in a range of genres and styles.

For some years, until the meeting time changed from night to day, I belonged to BDS group Nelson 009. Established 38 years ago it still has one original member. A few members have passed away and some have moved on, but a core of kind, thoughtful and interesting souls remain, some having been part of the group for over 20 years.

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Marian Fraser has been a member for 26 years. “I have belonged to a book group for what feels like most of my life,” she says.

“There is something in the satisfaction of having read a book and discussing it with others but it is much more than that. It is a way of connecting with people on a deeper level. When they are discussing a book they often speak from the heart. They say things they wouldn’t normally say. That’s because books act as a trigger. There are usually a wide range of attitudes and responses and that is what makes the conversation so interesting.”

our best to fit in. Talking about books with people from many different countries, some for which English is not their first language and where they might be reading in translation, is an interesting way of talking about culture. It is a good way to recognise one’s own bias and try to understand from a different perspective. It is also a fun way to keep in touch.”

Tour guide Anne Bandoli really enjoys the book club in Mapua she belongs to. It is a chance to get together on a regular basis, enjoy wine and nibbles Like others I spoke to, and share reactions to a Marian belongs to more book they have all read. than one book club. The Not belonging to any other one is quite different. scheme, each member “I joined a local street book takes it in turn to choose club after I found a note a title. Unlike many local in my letterbox telling me book clubs that are made about it,” she explains. up of women, this one “We don’t always read is mixed. “Although it is the same book and don’t a social activity, we are belong to any scheme but pretty focused on the we have themes for the book,” says Anne. “I like month. This month’s is belonging because it gets ‘Biography’. It was thanks me to read more and I to this book club that I was read books I would never introduced to the Pulitzer normally choose. I am prizewinning author often surprised at how I Elizabeth Strout. Her work can become interested in is heart-breaking, human, things that I had previously astute and generous. I never thought I would can’t imagine having met be.” During last year’s such an outstanding writer lock down the group any other way.” had Zoom meetings. “It was fun,” laughs Anne.

Jacquie Walters belongs “One member put up a to a very 21st century background that was from tech-style book club. Two the hotel of the book we European summers ago were reading about.” At she travelled to Wales other times members have to meet up with former provided supper that has classmates from the related in some way to the United World College book of the month. of the Atlantic. Several Marion Fraser has been a member of BDS Nelson 009 for 26 years. decades later and now Some book clubs focus scattered the world over, on specific genres. Jenny they meet every six weeks Easton belongs to one of or thereabouts to discuss the latest chosen book on Zoom. “It is these. The main focus of this group are scientific books. “It has a challenge to meet across so many time zones,” says Jacquie. been hugely successful,” says Jenny. “At our meetings each of “There are more people in the northern hemisphere but we do the ten members has a chance to talk about a book they have

I like belonging because it gets me to read more and I read books I would never normally choose.

I am often surprised at how I can become interested in things that I had previously never thought I would be.

Anne Bandoli

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October 2021

Members of BDS Nelson 009, Trish Simpson, Elena Meredith, Jem Piper, Carol Mills, Annette Gill and Pat King.

read. There is wide diversity in our interests,” she explains.

“They include animals, mathematics, climate, genetics and the brain amongst others. We write a two sentence summary about every book so other members can follow them up if they want to.” The structure of the group works particularly well. “No one dominates and you don’t have to be scholarly or able to critique a book with a great degree of skill. You just have to be able to share a subject you have found interesting. It is a great way for us to absorb information and learn about new things.”

I miss Nelson009. I miss the camaraderie and the shared experiences, the time spent in other’s houses, the suppers and the annual dinner when we would make a list of the

books to order for the new year. I miss the intersection of our lives, no less meaningful by being brief. If it hadn’t been for the book group, I would probably never have got to read three of my all-time favourite titles: The Forest Unseen, by George David Haskell, Half the Sky, by Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn and The Housekeeper and the Professor, by Yoko Ogawa. Each one of them completely inspirational and a peek into worlds I had never before explored. That is the beauty of book clubs. You never quite know what magical path they will lead you down. It can be challenging and confronting, joyous and uplifting but, regardless of whether you like what you read, your mind will be exercised and your heart warmed.

TRACY NEAL

Sarah Jones

Letters to Live By

Living and thriving with MS Our Letters to Live By column asks Nelsonians to pen a letter to their fellow citizens, telling their story.

This month, read how Sarah Jones was diagnosed with a serious illness and how addressing her assailant head-on is helping her to win the battle.

I

n December 2018 my fingertips went numb. Pain in my hands increased over 10 weeks until it felt like they were being constantly crushed.

Let’s skim over a few agonising weeks and all the testing to no avail. I was in despair at continually being told a referral to a neurologist was months away. That seemed simply impossible.

My GP and the doctors at Nelson Hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department were awesome - we talked over other options.

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October 2021

We – my family, paid to see a neurologist privately, and for a raft of tests and an MRI - the cost hurt almost as much as my hands. MRI’s showed a spinal cord lesion that had doubled in size in six weeks. In hindsight, getting fast information was invaluable and almost certainly avoided further nerve damage.

After a lifetime of good health, at age 49, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. No previous signs, no family history, but there it was.

‘It is what it is’: That’s what I thought then, and is something I always come back to when the going gets rough.

I didn’t cry, I didn’t get overwhelmed nor dwell on worse case scenarios. My husband and I got serious. We were methodical, making lists of what needed to be addressed in the next month, in six months, in the first year. We researched, confining ourselves to formal medical studies, ignoring the endless clickbait. As well as pharmaceuticals, we read about the benefits of fasting, meditation, exercise, supplements, herbs and cryogenics (the production and behaviour of materials at very low temperatures).

I did anything that seemed worth a try. I never said anything was too tough because it wasn’t - nothing is harder than being really, really sick. My days became a mix of self-care, clean eating, cold showers, colder swims, tooth flossing, bracing walks, meditation, yoga, rest and love.

I am learning how to live as well as I possibly can, something that ‘perfect health’ never taught me. This is a lifelong commitment, to choose the best organic/ regenerative/nutrient-dense food, to observe the daily disciplines for my mind and body, to live deliberately with the drive to really thrive.

Disease aside, in hindsight these are no more than the choices I should have made every day of my life, and yet it is only in losing good health that I really appreciate their value and set them right at the top of my priority list.

We told our teenage kids all we knew at every stage – there was no drama. I’m glad we did, and it worked for us.

I am learning how to live as well as I possibly can, something that ‘perfect health’ never taught me.

Soon I told our close friends and family who fortunately are the best of people. About three months later, when I was medicated enough to get out and about again, I told my wider circles via a Facebook post. I shared all my symptoms, invisible to others, on the basis that full disclosure meant nobody had to tiptoe around and we could focus on sharing more interesting news when we next met. The first thing I asked in that post was to have a good swear for me. I got so many hilarious photos and messages from around the world – man, I loved those!

So now, a couple of years on, I’m back in the public health system which is narrow but efficient. My neurologist and MS nurse are great, and I am aggressively positive about my future.

I live with some pain, but it will go. My energy levels seem to have limits, but they are improving. I’m doing more than ever for excellent health; I might even be better than ever soon!

If you have a story to share with our readers please email editor@nelsonmag.co.nz

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2021

BARRY BECK

Fishing a fine line The season of trout is upon us. For those puzzled by the quiet mysteries of fly fishing, we aim to solve at least some of them. Tracy Neal reports.

I

t happens each October.

Usually it rains, muddying rivers and the hopes of hundreds who have been waiting months to cast a line.

The official opening of the seven-month trout fishing season is the time for eager anglers to haul on bib pants and waders and spend weekends stalking their favourite rivers.

It’s often a solitary time for partners whose preference is not to spend hours on a riverbank, swatting sandflies and drinking coffee from a thermos.

But as the old saying goes, if you can’t beat ‘em, then join ‘em.

As it turns out, the Nelson region hosts some of the world’s best waterways for catching trout.

It’s one reason Felix Borenstein moved here from Australia to set up what has become a five-star luxury fishing lodge.

“After fishing around a lot of New Zealand, it became obvious to me that the Murchison/Nelson Lakes region of the South Island has the best sighted brown trout river fishery in the world.”

The Owen River Lodge near Murchison had, until early last

year, focused largely on the international visitor market.

Historically, 96 per cent of guests annually were from the US, Australia and the UK, with “four or five” bookings from New Zealanders.

That all changed suddenly when the borders closed due to Covid. The overseas anglers were gone.

“We tried to pivot as a country luxury lodge which by and large was a failure – so we stuck with what we do best.”

Luckily, Kiwis were suddenly keen to go fishing. Felix says 65 bookings from New Zealanders halted the downward revenue spiral, assisted by lowered rates to suit the Kiwi market.

“It blew me away. I was incredibly grateful, and still am, for the number of Kiwis who decided to come here and stay at the lodge.”

Felix says it also helped to keep his staff employed, to whom he felt obliged.

“They offered to take a pay cut, but I said ‘no’. My head chef has been with me 10 years and I’ve made good money in that time, so it wasn’t fair to have them take a hit because of what

37

OWEN RIVER LODGE

Kylie Sargeant with a wild brown trout on the Owen River.

Fewer people had a positive spin-off on the river.

and how to tie (fishing) flies on his camp table, and he showed them how to cast.”

“Our guides saw far less anglers on the river, making the fish a little easier to catch.”

Kylie learned then that casting was just as much an art form as an outdoor activity.

Helping to run the business is Felix’s partner Kylie Sargeant.

The avid fly fisher is certified by the International Federation of Fly Fishers, making her New Zealand’s only female certified fly-casting instructor.

“It’s what led me to study to become a casting instructor.”

was going on beyond their control.

She says fly fishing is most certainly something more women should be encouraged to do.

“It’s an incredibly restorative practise – I’m not sure men like to share that too much; the secrets of how restorative fly fishing can be. It takes you to some divine places and it provides an opportunity to just be still.

“As women we’re usually pretty awful at that, but to take time out, to be in solitude somewhere stunningly beautiful, be still and present in the moment, is what fly fishing is all about.”

The former special needs teacher became hooked on fly fishing after a camping holiday with her children in her native Australia.

“It became something to do on school holidays. It began with me dropping a handline over a footbridge at the beach. Then we started going to some really nice quiet places and fishing became a side activity to keep the kids entertained.”

Kylie says on one trip they were camped beside a fly fisherman.

“This gentleman got the kids really excited about insects,

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October 2021

Kylie says the advantage New Zealand has over other top fishing destinations is that it’s safe.

“There are no snakes, there are no bears – the bush is quite benign in terms of things that can kill you…well, yes, the sandflies can drive you crazy, but they won’t kill you.”

Fish & Game New Zealand manages, maintains and enhances sports fish and game birds, and their habitats. It is funded through the sale of fishing and hunting licences, which are required by anyone wanting to go fresh-water fishing or game bird hunting.

Last season, Kiwis stuck at home by Covid prompted a nine per cent increase in domestic licence sales - the highest in 20 years.

Fish & Game spokesperson Richard Cosgrove says the Nelson Marlborough region has some acclaimed trout fisheries. It hosts four designated backcountry fisheries (the Travers, Goulter, Upper Wairau and Upper Matakitaki) but has loads of places close to Nelson and Blenheim for anglers of all skill levels to go and catch a fish for the plate.

“There's a saying in Fish & Game that every bridge you cross is a fishing opportunity, and the fisheries close to Nelson certainly fit that category.”

To take time out, to be in solitude somewhere stunningly beautiful, be still and present in the moment, is what fly fishing is all about.

Kylie Sargeant

OWEN RIVER LODGE

Fishers either catch and release their trout or save their prize for eating, but catch limits do apply.

Richard says trout are highly regarded as a delicacy. Fish & Game has partnered with celebrity chef Angello Georgalli (host of the television show The Game Chef and author of associated cookbooks) to create the Fish & Game Cookbook, set to go on sale next April.

Fly fishing on the Wairau River.

The New Zealand Fish & Game Council says: •

Last season saw a nine per cent increase in domestic licence sales.

•

Non-resident (overseas) anglers normally make up 10 to 15 per cent of licence sales.

•

The Nelson region is an international trout fishing destination because of its large number of acclaimed wilderness rivers. It also has an array of top-rated lowland rivers offering many public access points.

•

The Motueka, Wairau and Pelorus rivers are close to residential areas and support high numbers of trout.

•

Learn to be an angler at a “stepping-stone fishery” such as an enclosed waterway like Lake Argyle – a small hydro lake in Marlborough. They are easy to access and are regularly stocked with rainbow trout.

The resident angler base has grown in recent years because of these fisheries.

It will feature all the species that Fish & Game manage, including brown and rainbow trout.

Felix says they have planned for the coming season with a focus once more on Kiwis.

“I have cancelled every single booking I had from overseas for all of January 2022 and moved them to January 2023.

Everyone’s been supportive and understands.”

He says some Kiwis who stayed at the lodge last year had booked to return this season.

“There is certainly a market there from New Zealanders who want to spoil themselves.”

Colour your world

this Spring

All clothing and accessories from Beetees Photographer: Virginia Woolf Model: Marina Kere Stylist: Lorraine Beattie Special thanks to Robet and Victor for the use of Retiro Park Lodge

T Shirt: Lemon Tree Jumpsuit: Lemon Tree Shoes: Models own

Dress: Blackstone Hat: Archer House

Dress: Lemon Tree Necklace: Archer House Hat: Archer House Shoes: Taylors We Love Shoes

T Shirt: Elm Overtop: Oh Three Linen pants: Threadz Hat: Archer House

ON THE STREET Melissa Spratt is used to designing movie sets but that doesn’t mean she can’t spare a little time for her own style. Having recently moved back to Nelson from London she describes her style as vintage-meets-sporty-meets-tomboy.

What are you wearing?

My Thai silk jacket was bought on Marketplace and originally purchased in Singapore. Old merch t-shirt from Santigold concert. I bought my gold Urban Outfitters culottes from Ebay. My fedora hat is made from recycled plastic bottles by Kooringal. New Balance sneakers were also from Marketplace. Pink Glitter socks are from Topshop and pink sea pearl earrings were made by my friend Gab Bertogg.

What is your style?

Vintage-meets-sporty-tomboy.

What is most of your wardrobe made up of?

Mainly jackets, shirts, onesies and vintage items with textural fabrics and colour.

What are you loving at the moment?

I love the current mash-up of decades. The resurgence of 90s fashion and therefore 70s style because it was trending in the 90s. Baggy overalls, crew neck jumpers, high-waist flares, t-shirts, silver chains.

Where do you buy most of your clothes from?

Op-shops, vintage shops, Trademe, Marketplace, and I receive hand-me-downs from friends.

What is your approach to shopping?

I’m attempting to consume less but that can be a little hard working in costume and styling. As a rule, I only buy second-hand. If it needs to be new, I will do my best to check for ethical supply chains and only buy quality, natural and recycled materials.

What is your all-time favourite purchase?

The electric blue and purple version of this jacket from ‘Mr Ben Vintage’ in Glasgow. I have worn it to death, so it is beginning to fall apart, hence why I was very excited when I stumbled upon this identical version on the other side of the world in autumnal colours.

What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?

Whether it be a strong hat or a banging jacket, you should invest in items that make you feel amazing or help you express yourself. Wear your clothes for yourself and no one else.

Do you have a style rule you always obey?

If you wear it with confidence, you can pull it off.

If you could raid one person’s wardrobe, who would it be?

If 1968 was a human...

Finish this sentence – You would never catch me wearing…

Stilettos- as much as I love their look, sadly they give me shin splints.

AIMEE JULES

New season United Nude Burst into Spring!

Bold, unique and exclusive to Shine.

Add some warmth and colour to your wardrobe this season.

Handcrafted earrings perfect for everyday wear while adding elegance to your outfit. $185-$495

Shine Louise Douglas Jewellery

253 Hardy St, Nelson shinedesignstore.co.nz

191 Hardy St, Nelson louisedouglas.com

Unforgettable ring = Unforgettable proposal

Sandals with a greener footprint Fashion, functionality and anatomy are essential elements of the Woden DNA, ensuring sandals carefully designed for urban life.

Soul by Mariposa 257 Hardy St, Nelson | 49 Commercial St, Takaka Ph: 0800 132 500 | mariposaclothing.co.nz

Look as beautiful as you feel Gorgeous new sleepwear range encompassing style and comfort, with natural fabrics.

Creating custom jewellery and happiness since 1960

Jens Hansen 320 Trafalgar Square, Nelson jenshansen.co.nz

Stunning coloured gemstones RoCS have an amazing variety of gemstones alongside their jewellery collection.

All gemstones are available for purchase and are fully tested by their qualified in-house gemmologist.

Little Boutique Lingerie | Swimwear | Sleepwear

51 Bridge St, Nelson littleboutique.co.nz

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October 2021

RoCS 238a Queen St, Richmond rocs.co.nz

Check mate

Natural warmth

Auckland-based label Stolen Girlfriend’s Club have just released their new lockdown-inspired Spring collection “I Don’t Want To Go Out”.

We love the Cross Town Sweater for an edgier look, perfect for those cooler transeasonal days.

Brass Monkey’s New Zealand made range of 100% fine merino garments for men and women will keep you warm if the weather turns chilly.

Lightweight, durable and breathable.

Available now in store and online.

Trouble & Fox

Outpost Supplies

Bank Lane, Nelson (lane next to BNZ, through to Montgomery Sq) troubleandfox.co.nz

53 Quarantine Rd, Nelson outpostsupplies.co.nz

Robyn Reynolds & Co Embrace spring and rejuvenate with Lemon Bergamot A fresh, fragrant and zesty blend of lemongrass and bergamot to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

Three dynamic women under one roof in their new Church Street creative hub.

Jacqueline Roberts Art Erika Heidi Jewellery Design Robyn Reynolds Fashion Designer 12A Church St, Nelson

Living Light Shop 2A, 219 Trafalgar St, Nelson Central Arcade livinglight.co.nz

Style up your spring

KAMA – the original Indian Love Oil

You will find plenty of tops that are perfect for layering amongst Cruella’s unique handknitted styles and New Zealand made brands.

Indulge in the unique fragrance of Kama products, a Kiwi favourite for more than 50 years.

Be Adult 117 Hardy St, Nelson (Montgomery Arcade) bkinky.co.nz

Cruellas 155 Hardy St, Nelson cruellas.co.nz

47

WR

WaimeaRichmond FUNERAL SERVICES

Kate Hislop, Ardine Wilson, Suzanna Pearson and Jackie Gibbs-Beaton of Stacey.

Own the moment S

tacey in Richmond is a magnet for women who love clothes and want to feel good in what they wear. When Jackie Gibbs-Beaton purchased the store three years ago she knew she was buying a much-loved local icon. “It is a brand that was founded by an amazing woman, Cheryl Stacey, in 2004. It is important to me to honour her legacy.”

While the store sells a large array of high quality New Zealand, Australian and European labels, its popularity is due also to its staff. “We are like a family, all experienced in fashion and passionate about giving each of our customers a fantastic shopping experience whenever they walk through our door,” says Jackie.

With warm and engaging personalities, sales consultants Ardine Wilson and Suzanna Pearson take delight in giving an exceptional level of customer care. In addition to Ardine’s many years of retail experience, Suzanna is qualified as a colour consultant and wardrobe stylist. The store’s website and business support is carried out by vibrant young mum, Kate Hislop.

“We work together to hand-select everything we sell,” says Jackie. “We have such a wide cross section of customers of all ages, sizes and life stages. Whether they are looking for a garment for a special occasion, evening attire or everyday wear, we want to help. Sharing our ideas gives the store a fantastic variety of fashion looks in an array of colours and styles.”

The Stacey team is passionate about their philosophy, ‘Own the Moment.’ “No matter what garments you are putting on, you need to feel fabulous, right now, at this moment,” says Jackie.

“There is no better feeling than helping someone feel confident and beautiful in what they are wearing,” says Ardine. “It is very humbling to hear people’s stories and be able to help them feel positive about themselves when they are dressed well.”

As well as providing a happy customer experience in an airy, light-filled shop, Stacey is also about fun. Their VIP nights are always popular and they also offer shopping nights for groups of women who want to have a special night out. Customers can also make personalised shopping appointments, a service that is more and more in demand.

“It is our team that makes this place so special,” says Jackie.

“We just feel so lucky to be able to work together to bring rays of sunshine into other women’s lives.”

Stacey Ph 03 544 7737 249 Queen Street, Richmond stacey.co.nz Stacey clothing

49

Facial Rejuvenation in Nelson

goodbye

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03 548 8216 www.enhanceskin.co.nz

Just because your hair might be grey, doesn’t mean your life needs to be.

Today’s 70-year olds are the healthiest, strongest, and most mentally agile history has ever known. So Summerset Retirement Villages are designed for the active lifestyles of the youngest “oldies” there’s ever been.

Think 70 is the new 50

Love the life you choose.

03 744 3432 summerset.co.nz/richmond

SUM3407_HP

51

My Home

My

home TESS JAINE

Jillian and Kevin live in an old farm house in beautiful Todd Bush Valley. From there they can see boats in the bay, hear birds in the branches and enjoy their slice of paradise.

Who lives here?

What inspired this look?

I live here with my husband Kevin, with whanau, and friends coming and going. We have lived here for 10 years, but purchased the property two years prior to that.

Built in the late 1800s we are in a long line of good people who have contributed to the open and warm feel that this house exudes.

What four words would you use to describe your home?

What’s your decorating style?

Spacious, peaceful, crafted and historic.

Like William Morris we try to decorate with the premise of, ‘buy nothing that is not either beautiful or useful’ and fits the feel of the house.

ABOVE: Kevin and Jillian with their dogs Billie and Plum on the veranda of their Todd’s Bush Valley home.

53

Where do you shop for homewares?

Best money spent?

A variety of places from antique shops to auctions, to quality second-hand and period pieces, as well as inherited antiques from family. New furniture and fittings are purchased to fit the period of the house.

Buying this house!

Best budget tip?

Talk. Do as much as you can yourself (look online and learn) and enjoy the process. Contour Roofing were great and Go Scaffolding did some wonderful things as we painted from top to bottom. Look after your tradies - tea and coffee the bare minimum, and snacks! Old houses have quirks - be prepared. And remember, that’s the fun of it!

What piece would you never part with?

Too many to name… most would be items that were handed down from family or were purchased specifically for this house.

What’s next on your interiors list?

Finishing the upstairs bedrooms, followed by a kitchen revamp which has been planned but not yet implemented.

ABOVE: The dining room looks out onto the sun drenched balcony. | Kevin and Jillian often have friends round to play music in their dedicated music room | The upstairs landing is a beautiful spot to enjoy the views of Nelson bay. | The house is the oldest and first house built in Todd’s Bush Valley. | The lounge with its impressive bay windows. | The leadlight cabinet is a special piece of furniture inherited from Jillian’s grandparents.

OPPOSITE PAGE: The front door features original stained glass windows that cast a beautiful light through the entranceway. | Kevin and Jillian have a collection of antique dressers throughout the house for storage. Kevin restores many pieces of furniture himself.

54

October 2021

In the evenings the grey herons, tui, kereru, kingfishers and koromiko are all around, nesting in the trees.

What’s your favourite spot in the house?

For both of us it is hard to pin down, however the upstairs balcony with the views to the sea are a major drawcard.

From this view we see sunsets and storms; boats (especially fishing boats), and bird life, in an incredibly peaceful and unimpeded panorama. We look down on the community park and out to the wetlands, which we call the ‘moors’. On Sundays you can see the radio-controlled models, and on special days the regattas with spinnakers up! In the evenings the grey herons, tui, kereru, kingfishers and koromiko are all around, nesting in the trees.

What’s your favourite room?

When we first arrived, what was the old Sunday school pink room (and it was pink!) was where we set up camp. It was quiet, dark and soundless. The first major renovation was the master bedroom upstairs with the balcony looking to the sea. This room had scrim, and the usual past debris of a long old life. This room is now ours. It’s been redone to our liking, and we love it! The doors open out to the panorama.

What do you love about the neighbourhood where you live?

It’s quiet and peaceful in the valley, and the most noise you are likely to hear is the bird life! Also the street lights at night face down which means night sky viewing, and to top it off, you hear Ruru calls in the valley.

4 Seasons Nelson Corner Achilles Ave & Rutherford Street, Nelson 03 547 4732 | 4seasons.co.nz

4S20210909

Make your backyard the place to gather all year round with our range of BBQs, furniture, umbrellas, heating & spas.

Turn your backyard into the ultimate sanctuary

Enjoy family time in a Galaxy Spa.

4

Seasons is excited to introduce the new-release spa pool, swim spa and plunge pool range from Galaxy Spas.

One effect of lockdowns in New Zealand is that Kiwis have reflected on their lifestyles and looked long and hard at ways they can improve their lives on a day to day basis. “This last lockdown made me think about how important it is to invest in our health and wellbeing and the importance of having a space at home where we can prioritise it,” says Dave Herald, Nelson store manager.

Over the last 20 years 4 Seasons has been selling spa pools to Nelsonians and Dave says their customers’ stories about how a spa has transformed their lives centre around a few key benefits.

In a family situation sharing a spa is a fun way to spend more quality time together, switching off screens and enjoying those conversations that might not otherwise happen.

Others enjoy a quiet, relaxing retreat for some ‘me-time’, to soak away the stresses of the day and wind down for a good night's sleep. A spa also provides a perfect way to relieve aches and pains and assist in rehabbing injuries or recovering faster from exercise and sport activities.

One of the best things about Galaxy’s new range is its line-up of swim spas and plunge pools.

If you have been thinking about a swimming pool for your place, Dave shares why a swim spa or plunge pool is a great alternative to consider. “Swimming pools can be expensive to install and maintain, take up lots of room, and unless heated, can’t be used year-round. With a Galaxy swim spa or plunge pool, you get all the benefits of a pool and more.”

Galaxy’s exclusive Dynamic River Flow Control inverter swimming system means you can make your regular swim an incredible exercise, training, or rehab experience.

Large, patented turbo jets create a powerful yet smooth continual flow of water for you to swim against. Increasing or decreasing the water pressure against 10 speeds allows it to cater to all abilities or intensity preferences. And then, when you have finished, you can relax and recover in one of the dedicated massage seats.

Galaxy swim spa with a swim zone and separate spa zone.

Galaxy plunge pools feature the same amazing swimming system but have wide steps at one end rather than seats, perfect for those wanting a more traditional pool configuration. “And they can be enjoyed all year round,” says Dave. “You can adjust the water temperature to suit your needs and the season: cooler in summer, warmer in winter, meaning you can always get in a workout, or soak away your aches and pain regardless of the weather.” Some Galaxy swim spas have two zones – a cooler swim zone and a separate hot spa zone for dedicated hydrotherapy, giving you the benefits of a pool and spa in one.

4 Seasons is your one-stop shop for advice, quotes, delivery, and installation of your new Galaxy. Pop in and check out their range of products to further enhance your outdoor living space, such as barbecues, heating, furniture, and umbrellas.

4 Seasons Cnr Achilles Ave & Rutherford Street, Nelson Open 7 days - Monday - Saturday, 9am- 5pm Sunday and public holidays, 10am - 4pm.

Ph: 03 547 4732 4seasons.co.nz

57

Paul Kenny

Paul’s pick!

STONE VALLEY

Stone Valley combines the beauty of travertine, with the durability of glazed porcelain while show casing its natural colours.

NELSON’S BIGGEST TILE SELECTION 74 Quarantine Road, Stoke, Nelson P: 03 547 8413 E: Paul@tiledirectnelson.co.nz W: www.tiledirectnelson.co.nz

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1. Add an inviting ambience to your room with the latest table lamps. The right lighting can lift your spirits and make you more relaxed. storeycollection.co.nz 2. Make a dramatic difference to an interior space with digital wallpaper from Craig Potton MNZM, New Zealand’s leading landscape photographer. craigpottongallery.co.nz 3. Natural fabrics, handcrafted, and always a good dash of vintage. aninsidestory.co.nz 4. Choose fresh picked flowers from the chiller, order a beautiful bouquet, or shop in the delightful gift store on the Appleby Highway. theflowerfarm.co.nz 5. Quality bedroom furniture, accessories and locally made beds from Nelson’s sleep specialists. nelsonbeds.co.nz 6. Coast luxury outdoor beanbags are perfect for relaxing on the deck, around the pool, out on the lawn, or at the beach. lynfords.co.nz

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Richmond

Performance and portability Spice up your spring Ready for a fun new project? Cruellas have lovely new cottons and linen ready for you to crochet or knit.

Pulse Flex is a game-changing, ultra-compact, all in one portable two-way speaker that offers true flexibility. Use indoors for full stereo sound or take it outside on a picnic.

Beggs Music Works 264 Hardy St, Nelson beggsmusic. co.nz Cruellas 155 Hardy St, Nelson 03 548 4016 cruellas.co.nz

Garden hideaway?

WeedX natural herbicide New Zealanders love WeedX because they can spray with peace of mind. It’s safe, fast, effective, organic and non-toxic. Available in either ready to spray or concentrate.

Refills welcome.

Goulter’s – The vinegar people 122 Tahunanui Dr, Nelson Order online at vinegarpower.co.nz

These rustic style cabins provide the perfect extra space in your backyard.

Any building under 30m2 no longer need council approved building consent so getting your backyard haven just got easier.

Allwood Sheds 15 Gladstone Rd, Richmond 03 547 7026 allwoodsheds.co.nz

Providing a safe ride for your little ones The Graco® SlimFit3™ LX 3-in-1 car seat is Graco’s slimmest design that fits three car seats across, saving space in your back seat without compromising on the safety you trust and the features you need.

Baby On The Move Nelson 4 Akersten St, Port Nelson babyonthemove.co.nz

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Dean's Nursery EST 1989

*NEW ZEALAND NATIVES *EXOTIC TREES & SHRUBS *EDIBLES *FERNS

03 5445569 www.deansnursery.co.nz 33 Lansdowne Road, RD1, Appleby, Tasman

tilvery

.nz

boutique accommodation

At Home

And then there were five Words: Adrienne Matthews

S

ome people have an uncanny ability to bring dreams to reality and Chris Warren is one such creative.

Purchasing a six hectare property with gentle contours in Upper Moutere seven years ago, he has created five exquisite cottages that have become Tilvery Boutique Accommodation. Named after his teenage daughters, Tilly and Verity, the project has been a true labour of love.

No stranger to hard graft, Chris is well known for the way he previously transformed a guest house in Queen Charlotte Sound into highly praised, artful boutique accommodation.

Not intending to ever do it again, he couldn’t resist the pull of the new property on his imagination and he has brought the same flair and attention to detail to Tilvery.

Already graced with established oaks and redwoods, he embarked on an extensive planting and regeneration plan.

Chris has lost count of the number of plants and trees he has dug into the Moutere clay. These include what will be spectacular ‘cathedral’ tree plantings where a central large tree or groups of trees are surrounded by layers of lower growing species. In one a Redwood forms the centre, surrounded first by a layer of Silver Birch, and then a hedge of thriving Griselinia. Included amongst other mass plantings are banks of Cork Oak and Italian Cypress.

Builder Andrew Dillon enjoyed the project from the start.

“There was a huge amount of preparation before we could begin,” he explains. “We were essentially building on a swamp

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CLICK HOMES

CLICK HOMES

CLICK HOMES

and so the footings had to be huge. They went down two metres. Once they were done, it was just a matter of getting up the first cottage then replicating the design four more times.”

Each cottage is 57sqm with almost identical layouts that include a living/kitchen area, bathroom and bedroom. That is where the similarities stop. While researching cladding options, Chris realised he loved the texture of brick, resulting in each cottage having its own three-dimensional brick pattern after which it is named; Diamond, Rows, Noughts and Crosses, Sawtooth and Zip, all now painted in a warm and inviting crimson red.

The bricklayer spent nine months completing the job. It was complicated because only full bricks were used and the pattern had to work right around each building with no breaks, a challenging task for the draughtsman where extreme precision was required to ensure the window and door spaces would be the correct size.

Exquisite parquet flooring graces each cottage, made from American Oak and laid by Chris himself. It is just one example of the extreme attention to detail that exists everywhere. Even the metal grills set between the travertine style tiling at the entrance to each cottage are individually crafted by him with the likes of geckos pierced into their frames.

The simple but fully appointed kitchen in each cottage has everything needed for a staycation. The benches are a stylish granite that enhances the different colour schemes of each cottage. The living and bedroom areas make the most of the views and the colour pallete in each is inspiring, ranging from a soft aqua to a deep phthalo blue, even a vibrant lime green.

All the cottages are set in their own gardens. The surrounding rural views are celebrated while privacy is maintained by clever planting, delicately curved trellis work and striking wrought iron gates made to Chris’s design. Each dwelling has its own parking area and plenty of room to enjoy the outdoors.

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Stylish contemporary cottages, each with their own private terrace garden – just minutes away from the vibrant seaside village of Mapua and right in the heart of the Great Tasman Taste Trail.

Tilvery is the place to base yourself, while exploring our beautiful Nelson/Tasman region.

At Home

A major part of the design was the choice of interior décor. Each cottage has its own unique character, dressed wonderfully around its specific colour scheme. There are comfortable leather sofas, quirky chairs, intriguing light shades and local art. Each has air-conditioning in the ceiling with heating and lighting controlled from a central smartmetre.

Bathrooms, including one that is accessible for wheelchairs, are smart and contemporary with polished granite used on both floors and walls.

Set in the midst of cycle trail country, Tilvery is sure to be a winner with visitors and locals alike, who will appreciate the extra effort that has gone into providing a home away from home with unique character and style. To walk into each cottage is to feel serene and pampered, just as Chris intended.

tilvery.nz

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ANDI CROWN

Comfrey Saunders

Sharing the love of art Growing up in a house surrounded by art and artists, it isn’t surprising that Comfrey Sanders is most at home on the stage. Judene Edgar sits down with Comfrey to talk life, art and performing.

I

n Nelson, she’s possibly best known as the daughter of Bridget and Roger Sanders, but across New Zealand and the globe, she is regarded as a formidable actor with a string of successful shows and international tours under her belt.

Originally from the UK, her family packed their bags and brought their two young daughters to New Zealand for a holiday. They bought an old-school, pop-top Kombi van and travelled around the country.

In Nelson, Bridget a visual artist and Roger a storyteller and musician, found a thriving arts community, so as artists themselves they felt at home and decided to put down roots.

Initially settling in The Glen and going to Hira School, they shifted into central Nelson in time for Comfrey to go to Nelson Intermediate. It was there that her creativity started.

“I was looking for extra-curricular activities and found live theatre,” Comfrey says. “There happened to be a cool confluence of me looking and finding a lot of musical theatre for young people at that time.”

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October 2021

The path wasn’t necessarily a straight one as she tried piano, flute and even rock climbing along the way, but she found her voice when she joined the Nelson Youth Theatre. Along with her younger sister Rose, they were both in the choir in their first Youth Theatre production, Les Miserables. From there she joined SoundStage, Nelson’s music and performing arts school, along with singing lessons and a youth choir.

Naturally, she says her parents were always encouraging her and sharing different artforms with her.

“My parents also introduced me to foreign cinema and beautiful art-house films. Through their love of the arts, it opened my mind and heart to cinema, storytelling and theatre.”

Somewhat surprisingly, even to herself, she then developed a love for Shakespeare.

“I have dyslexia so I didn’t enjoy reading when I was younger, but once I found Shakespeare something clicked, and it came to life for me,” she says.

At Nelson College for Girls, she competed in the annual

My parents also introduced me to foreign cinema and beautiful art-house films. Through their love of the arts, it opened my mind and heart to cinema, storytelling and theatre.

Comfrey, Roger, Rose and Bridget Saunders

Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival, taking out a number of awards, including best delivery of lines and top Nelson performer. She then went on to represent Nelson at the national competition where she was selected to go to The Globe Theatre in London with the National Youth Shakespeare Company.

the same team, she says that creating the show had been an iterative process of devising, developing and improvising; a live trial and error process of “seeing what flies and what dies”.

Both shows have since been staged, with rave reviews, at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival followed by UK and Australian tours.

“I feel very lucky to have had so many opportunities available to me as a young person,” she says.

And while she also says that she was very lucky to get accepted into the prestigious Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School (Toi) on her first attempt, those who have worked with her or taught her, know it was anything but luck.

Graduating from Toi in 2014, she found the industry wasn’t quite as she thought it was going to be, but has settled into life as a freelance actor, despite all of the uncertainties that brings, especially at the moment with Covid-19.

“Being an actor can be challenging as you’re always in a state of flux and there’s no ladder you can climb.”

Many shows in New Zealand don’t last longer than a season, so Comfrey is incredibly grateful to have been involved with a number of shows that have been developed and staged over several years.

The last time she was in Nelson was bringing the farcical, slapstick comedy Jekyll and Hyde to life as part of production company A Slightly Isolated Dog at the newly reopened Nelson Centre of Musical Arts. Like Don Juan before it with

Comfrey was looking forward to sharing her show Owls Do Cry with Nelson as part of the Nelson Arts Festival, but unfortunately Covid restrictions has resulted in the cancellation of almost 30 shows, including hers.

“As a young theatre maker and writer, and from where I’m sitting here in Auckland, I anticipate that we will see and feel the fallout of Covid on our independent arts sector for a long time to come. And although the narrative of the struggling artist is a worn-out one, the New Zealand independent arts industry is a fragile one, and in the time of Covid, the arts is one of the first industries to disappear, and one of the last to get back on its feet.”

Comfrey has suggested that people who feel they are in a financial position to do so, might like to donate their ticket money back to the artists, the institutions, or local arts practitioners to show their support.

“If you consider the music you listen to, the content you consume, the stories you read, and the pleasure you get from culture significant, please spare a thought for the people who create and bring those experiences to you, now and in the future.”

join us in our

Heaphy Wonderland Book your corporate Christmas Party with us this November / December and for just $85 per person, you and your team can enjoy our 3 course Deluxe Christmas Platters, Room Hire of our beautifully decorated Heaphy Room including Christmas Crackers and a glass of Mulled Wine or Bubbles on arrival.

Contact us now to enquire about making your next Christmas Function one to remember.

Rutherford Hotel Nelson 27 Nile Street West, Nelson Phone: 03 548 2299 Email: functions@rutherfordhotel.co.nz

Gallery Showcase

Belinda Wilson Studio and gallery in central Nelson Open by appointment 021 731 007

| Our region’s best creative talent

Hawk’s Valley Sculpture Gallery 190 Williams Road, Tasman Open most days. A call is appreciated.

021 267 1127

The Artist Goldsmith Christine Hafermalz-Wheeler Central Nelson. By appointment 021 817 209

belindawilson.co.nz

laurenkitts.co.nz

TheArtistGoldsmith.com

ATELIER Studio | Gallery

The Suter Art Gallery

329 Trafalgar Square 021 166 8327 Tues - Fri 10am - 5pm, Sat 10am - 1pm

208 Bridge Street, Nelson

Lynette Graham Fabric Design + Artist

atelier.org.nz

thesuter.org.nz

125 Mapua Drive, Mapua.

021 731 737 or see online shop.

Lynettegraham.co.nz

Chocolate Dog Studio

Nelson Classic Car Museum Museum Store

Michael MacMillan Sculptor & Country Homeware

1 Cadillac Way, Annesbrook 03 547 4570 nelsonclassiccarmuseum.nz

252 Neudorf Rd, Upper Moutere Open October - Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon 10am – 4pm. 021 069 1401 michaelmacmillan.co.nz

Höglund Art Glass Studio & Gallery

Cathy Jones 4 Art

Book illustration and commissioned art 027 695 4433 chocolatedogillustration.co.nz

Purpose Gallery 5 Iwa St, Mapua Fri - Sun, 10am - 4pm open to public.

Tues - Thurs, 10am - 4pm for private appointments. Closed Mon. purpose.gallery

Open 7 days 9.30am -4.30pm 03-548 4699

52 Lansdowne Road, Appleby, Nelson Open 7 days 10am – 4pm 03 544 6500 hoglundartglass.com

027 546 9499 1/47A Washington Rd. Open Wednesdays 12-5pm, and by appointment. cathyjones4art.weebly.com

CHOCOLATE DOG STUDIO

Jane Smith has published a children’s book called Mr Otter and the River.

Illustrating an otter’s life Mapua’s Jane Smith has spent her life as an artist and creator. Her latest project is one that will attract a whole new audience – a children’s book titled Mr Otter and the River.

A

t some point during and even towards the end of a beloved pet’s life, many of us contemplate the idea of creating some kind of permanent record to have and to honour once that precious animal is no longer with us.

Creating that permanent record in the form of a unique illustration is something that artist Jane Smith has been specialising in over recent years. Prior to her move from the UK with her photographer husband Neil in 2002, Jane worked in graphic design. However, on her arrival in New Zealand, she started to work for herself.

During her early years here she painted landscapes and seascapes, which she sold through a local gallery, but then after their move from Diamond Harbour near Christchurch to Mapua, she and Neil established Chocolate Dog Studio from which to sell their work. Then two years ago, Jane made the big decision to focus solely on illustration work, which unsurprisingly mostly features animals. “I really am now just doing what I like,” she says. “It doesn’t feel like work at all – it’s just something I love doing.”

Their Chocolate Dog Studio operates online, it doesn’t have a physical presence and now that Jane’s work has become pretty well known, the majority of her work comes via word

of mouth. In between commissions, and starting back in the first lockdown in 2020, Jane has found time to write and illustrate a book, Mr Otter and the River, which she will publish this month. Although otters don’t feature in the New Zealand landscape, the idea for the book came from her Londonbased brother who provided a skeleton outline for Jane to work with. His inspiration came from being surrounded by people whose first language was not English. Thus some of the characters in the book speak with different accents and is, in Jane’s own words, “a little fable about not making assumptions before you know someone”.

It’s not a typical illustrated children’s book in that Jane is keen for it to be enjoyed by a wide age range; in other words, it could be read aloud to younger children, while those aged eight or older could read it for themselves.

Mr Otter and the River will be launched at Nelson’s Wall2Wall Gallery in Bridge Street at 5.30pm on 6 October. Jane would love to see you there but would appreciate knowing numbers in advance so please RSVP to info@chocolatedog.co.nz Ph: 027 695 4433 chocolatedogillustration.co.nz

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AY O U T !

One of NZ’s best collections right here in Nelson.

Come see our amazing cars, all in immaculate condition.

Nelson Classic Car Museum Open 7 Days 10am-4pm Little Engine Eatery Museum Store

21 - 31 October 2021

www.nelsonclassiccarmuseum.nz

Community | Creativity | Connection Mask Carnivale | Fri 29 Oct, 5.30 - 10pm nelsonartsfestival.nz

Supported by

Roisin King in front of one of Robin Slow’s art works. He will be exhibiting at the gallery from 23 October.

Gallery promotes artists with purpose

P

urpose Gallery co-owner Roisin King radiates excitement when talking about artists the gallery promotes and its upcoming exhibitions. It is clear that to her and partner Stu Fleming, running the gallery is much more than a job, it is a calling to encourage and promote New Zealand artists to the world.

the land and our place in it, the physical and the spiritual.” As with all pieces sold by the gallery, each of Robin’s works will come complete with their own written story.

With a background in international sales and PR, Roisin is well versed in marketing offshore and is eager to benefit New Zealand artists with her considerable experience. “Our values are strongly based in doing the best we can for each artist we represent,” she says. “We love to explore markets that we think will give our artists the greatest benefits and long-term success. Trust and relationships matter more to us than anything else and we want the artists we promote to know that we will always put their best interests at heart.”

Another solo show takes place in December by highly regarded sculptor Paul Olson. The centrepiece of this exhibition will be an intricately carved piece of 45,000-year-old swamp kauri entitled “I U....”. “It depicts a story about seeing your loved ones, witnessing the beauty of this world - love, family, friends and the strength of those communities. Watching those networks expand into this world and the joy that this invokes.” says Roisin. At 2.1m long and with outstanding craftsmanship and attention to detail, it has an almost otherworldly presence.”

The gallery holds a mixture of curated mixed shows along with solo shows. On 23 October a new exhibition by Golden Bay artist Robin Slow opens. Robin has been quietly selling his art throughout New Zealand and overseas for a number of years, combining his art practice with that of being an art educator while contributing time and talents relentlessly to his local community. “It’s the Robins of this world we want to promote,” says Roisin. “His work has such wonderful integrity and depth and comes from a place of great love for New Zealand and the natural environment. They tell stories too of Māori heritage,

Purpose Gallery is already taking the fortune of artists to new heights while enriching the lives of all those who see and buy works. “We are focused on nurturing and promoting art that tells a story and that will enrich the lives of those who purchase it on many levels”, concludes Roisin.

Due to the phenomenal popularity of Robin’s last exhibition, bookings for both the preview and official opening are essential and can be made by phoning, emailing or booking online.

Purpose Gallery Ph: 021 198 9291 5 Iwa Street, Māpua www.purpose.gallery

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Come dine with us!

Renowned for their breakfasts, delicious food, baking and excellent coffee, they are the mainstays of this bright city café.

Columbus’ friendly professional staff are highly trained baristas who make perfect coffee every time.

Check out their brunch menu!

At Pita Pit we make good food irresistible with fresh quality ingredients you can see. Your order is handmade, every time.

Aki Sushi serves everyone’s favourite Japanese food.

Freshly made onsite daily by their talented team.

If you want a genuine Italian welcome and authentic fresh food, then Babagattto is the place for you to dine.

DINE, SHOP, ENJOY FIND US

SHOPPING & DINING PRECINCT

morrisonsquare.co.nz

OCTOBER | 21

6, 13, 20, 27 Oct NELSON FARMERS MARKET Every Wednesday rain or shine the Farmers Market has local fresh produce and products.

Have some lunch and sample some incredible deals and taste sensations from the people that grew and made the products themselves.

WHAT’S ON For updated information visit itson.co.nz

Kirby Lane, Bridge St

21 - 23 Oct

26 October

PARADISE or the

ANNUAL WINE NELSON TASTING EVENT

Postponed dates! Jacob Rajan delivers a dazzling solo performance as he channels seven characters, weaving the afterlife and a dash of Bollywood disco into the real-life mystery of India’s vanishing vultures.

Discover and take home with you the delights of distinctive pinot noir, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, and aromatics. With over 100 wines available to taste accompanied by some delicious gourmet treats, the stage is set for this to be yet another fun occasion. Tickets from tastenelsonwines.nz

The Theatre Royal

Rutherford Hotel Nelson

Impermanence of Ice Cream

27 October

29 October

COUCH STORIES

MASK CARNIVALE

The return of a local Arts Festival favourite is back with the muchloved couch and all new stories.

Eclectic and engaging, often humourous and touching, and always deeply personal. These stories walk all paths of life.

The Mask Carnivale is known for transforming the streets into an explosion of colour, music and performance. It kicks off with the iconic parade, culminating in a street carnival full of fun, music and entertainment – bring your mask and dancing shoes for a celebration like no other!

NCMA

Central Nelson

30 October

31 October

EMERGE!

GHOSTS AND GOBLINS TRICK OR TREAT

Featuring gifted local performers under the age of 20 who have achieved national recognition, in a predominantly classical, with a sprinkle of contemporary, variety concert to astound and delight you. Thanks to generous support from NRDA, tickets are free, and can be pre booked at NCMA or ncma.nz NCMA

Collect your map, bag and tickets, and trick or treat your way around participating Richmond stores.

Dress up in your best Halloween costume and be into win prizes by taking part in the fancy-dress parades at 11am and 12pm.

Sundial Square, Richmond

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MIKI DJUKANOVIC’S 40 th BIRTHDAY

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Fellworth House

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1.

Loan Heran and Elly Aleksich

2.

Jack Hay, Elisa Nakonz, Kevin Choi, Aurelie Zentaoui and Mahir Habibula

3.

Tom Russell and Arreyah Pyers

4.

Keeli Ferris and Campbell Banks

5.

Linda and Darryn Cunningham

6.

Sylis and Miki Djukanovic

7.

Loveen Samuels, Nicole Bruiser, Keira Pejkovic and Emma Pejkovic

8.

Nevena Prtenjak and Uros Radmanovic

9.

Zoe Batley, Naomi Thurlow, Jasmine Grew and Sean Thurlow

10. Miki Djukanovic, Melody Hogan,

Bridie Hogan and Neil Smart

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MATT COSTELLO

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CURRY NIGHT & WINE

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Tastelogy Winelord

6

1.

Claudia Wakeman and Tayla Pearless

2.

Denise Palmer and Bobby Palmer

3.

Gavin and Irene Lovejoy

4.

Holly D’souza and Stephen Schoenberg

5.

James Brown and Fliss Higginson

6.

Malcolm and Pamela Walker

7.

Scott and Emma Bonnington

8.

Michael and Sarah Green

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Peter and Linda Hong

10. Mark Gray and Sally Smith

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SARAH BOARD

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DAWNBREAKERS FISHING CLUB OPEN DAY

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City Club Nelson

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1.

Dan and Brianna Govier

2.

Crystal Gaiger, Sue Hawkins and Ang Govier

3.

Jameson, Katie and Jason Terry

4.

Jeremy Jeffs and Dale Pritchard

5.

Samantha and Riaan Stoltz

6.

Khloe and Riley Stanley

7.

Matt and Thea Mulcahy

8.

Kevin Bannan, Des Ramsay and Lenny Smith

9.

Mike Connolly and Phil Chilton

10. Vern Mardon, Sue and Sid Gray

7

ERIN BRADNOCK

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SUBURBS SWANS FOOTBALL PRIZEGIVING

1.

Stephanie Mackintosh and Maria Gibney

2.

Dan Smith and Jewelz Lockett

3.

Liam Smith and Ashleigh Parkinson

4.

Erin Bunn, Sez Bishop and Hannah Bishop

5.

Emily Henderson and Jewelz Lockett

6.

Liam Smith and Marie McCoy

7.

Maria McKenzie and Greg Peek

8.

Shelley Illingworth and Jess Perriam

9.

Stephanie and Jayme Mackintosh

5

10. Courtney Harrison and Shea Carrington

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SARAH BOARD

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A fresh approach to Real Estate.

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Thinking of selling? Talk to Tonya today.

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Lavonne Savage is enjoying studying interior design at NMIT.

From pastry producer to kitchen creator While Lavonne Savage’s passion to become a successful interior designer may have been shelved for the last 20 years, her decision to study interior design at NMIT means it’s very much back on the table.

L

ike many of us, life has a habit of getting in the way when it comes to pursuing our passions.

The thought of returning to study after such a long break also took a little while for Lavonne to get her head around.

Undertaking a career in cheffing after studying at NMIT in 1997, Lavonne has spent the better part of her culinary career as a pastry chef at the Rutherford Hotel in Nelson.

“It’s was about getting out of my comfort zone,” says Lavonne, “working at the hotel, I knew I would get paid every week and that gave me a sense of security.”

Add the demands of raising a young family and you’ve got a recipe for a hectic life.

“I’m so pleased I’ve done this and I think it’s been so much better for me being able to bring my life experience.”

“Interior design was something I always wanted to do but when you’ve got a young family and a house, you just keep doing what you’re doing,” says Lavonne.

Lavonne hopes to combine her kitchen knowledge with her future career.

Changes to Lavonne’s cheffing job as a result of the Covid-19 suddenly saw her struggling to find the happy work, life balance she once had.

“After Covid-19, my job changed at the hotel to doing breakfasts and it made me really unhappy.”

“I said to myself, life is about being happy so I need to change my life. I already knew what I wanted to do, but I just had to be in the right place to do it,” says Lavonne.

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October 2021

“I want to be a kitchen designer, I’ve obviously worked in kitchens all my life so that would be my dream.”

The Diploma in Interior Design, (Residential) programme provides the skills and industry knowledge to find design solutions for residential spaces.

Apply now for 2022 nmit.ac.nz/interior-design

Celebrating master craftsmanship in Upper Moutere Words: Amy Russ

T

he village of Upper Moutere is home to some extremely talented creatives – the Moutere Artisans – and on Sunday 24 October, they warmly invite you to explore their special little village and experience the very best of what they have to offer.

Labour Weekend marks the start of the summer season for the Moutere Artisans, and their annual Meet the Makers event attracts thousands of people from all over the region.

Noël Jelsma, owner of Neudorf Black and chairman of Moutere Artisans, says the open day has been running for around 15 years with last year's turnout being in the thousands. “This year the Moutere Hills Community Centre are our friendly local ambassadors who will be serving as a hub of central information on the day. Maps, carparking, information boards on the artisans, and toilet facilities will be available. You can even enjoy some delicious Devonshire Tea while you meet friends and plan your route.”

At The Old Post Office on Moutere Highway, Tanya Doty will be sharing the age-old art of basket-weaving while contemporary jeweller Stacey Whale displays her unique gold and silver creations. You will find potter Owen Bartlett and ceramist Katie Gold hard at work across the road in their historic studio gallery, then wander amongst their stunning garden complete with a 100-year-old wisteria vine. In the heart of Moutere Village New Zealand’s oldest pub, Moutere Inn, will be serving delicious food and craft beers from their 171-year-old establishment.

Neudorf Road plays host to a plethora of creativity, says Noël, including work from artist and sculptor Michael MacMillan.

Learn about the how and why of mushroom growing at Neudorf Mushrooms; enjoy outstanding oils from Jonathan and Susan Pine at Neudorf Olives; discover the delicious super-food, black garlic, and say ‘hi’ to the friendly alpacas at Neudorf Black. Taste delectable sheep milk and cow’s

Stacey Whale Jewellery

milk products created by Dave Barrett at Thorvald Cheese, and savour gourmet smallgoods and charcuterie from The Sausage Press Deli Co. So much glorious wine comes from the Moutere valley.

Experience library wines matched with local cheese from Neudorf Vineyards. Revel in the memorable view across to the mountains at Flaxmore Vineyards while trying their wines and browsing their gallery of local, national, and international artists.

You can welcome the newcomers to the Moutere Artisans bunch at Gravity Winery on Old Coach Road. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscape, their gallery filled with work from local artists and their delicious platters made from locally sourced produce.

Don’t forget to swing by and sample divine sourdough style pizzas made by top chef Rob and his wife Jodi at North Eatery at Heaphy Vineyard on Sunrise Rd. Noël says the support for the Moutere Artisans event was “absolutely massive” last year and encourages the public to take the opportunity to meet the clever creatives in their inner sanctums. "We are expecting the turnout to be similar again this year especially after the last couple of months everyone has had. The Labour Weekend event gives people a really fun day out and a fantastic regional experience.”

Taste some of the country’s finest cheeses, olive oils, black garlic, and new-release wines. Seize the opportunity to talk to the talented artists behind the basket-weaving, sculpting, jewellery and ceramics in extraordinary Upper Moutere.

For a really interesting day in the country visit the artisans from 10am to 4pm, Sunday 24 October

ABOVE: Flaxmore Vineyard | The Sausage Press Deli Co. | Michael McMillan

For more information on the event check out moutereartisans.co.nz

Moutere Artisans MEE T THE M AKERS

Bartlett and Gold Gallery

Contemporary fine jewellery

Come and see new works by Owen Bartlett and stroll around the garden listening to the birdsong. Nestled in the garden there will be a wall of leaves by Katie Gold and fantastic sculptures by Deborah Walsh.

Discover Stacey’s beautiful creations in her inspiring jewellery shop in the heart of the Upper Moutere village. Stacey blends contemporary New Zealand art jewellery with classic fine jewellery design and her award winning style is refreshing and a delight to see.

Katie will also be here, creating with clay.

1380 Moutere Highway Upper Moutere Village 03 543 2544 bartlettandgoldgallery.co.nz

Stacey Whale 1381 Moutere Highway, Upper Moutere Ph 027 975 9204 staceywhale.com

Neudorf Black – fine foods

Heartstone Baskets

Black Garlic is the natural result of slowcooking fresh garlic under controlled conditions. The deep, rich, umami flavours of Neudorf Black Garlic are unforgettable and 100% garlic with no additives. Easy to use and loved by restaurants and home foodies alike, it is packed full of goodness you will love.

Visit website for stockists and online ordering.

Tanya Doty creates handmade baskets, made with respect for tradition and the desire to create enduring practical accessories that compliment home and lifestyle. Tanya regularly holds basket weaving workshops and welcomes commissions.

Noël & Teena Jelsma 021 080 63931 92 Neudorf Road, Upper Moutere neudorfblack.co.nz

Visit Tanya at the Old Post Office, 1381 Moutere Highway, Upper Moutere.

Meet, eat and discover

Flaxmore Vineyards

Meet the team behind Thorvald sheep milk and Little River Estate cows milk cheese and dairy.

Taste – outstanding wines from one of the Moutere’s newest wine labels from an established vineyard.

Eat multi-award-winning cheeses, grab a tasting platter for a picnic or a chunk of cheese to take home.

Discover where the magic happens, right here in your own backyard. (Note, the factory will not be open).

Delicious melted raclette and seasonal cheesecakes will be available.

Thorvald Cheese 226 Neudorf Road, Upper Moutere Full range at The Junction, Old Factory corner, Appleby highway

heartstonewillow 021 296 1375

heartstone baskets

Walk –explore the vineyard for stunning views across the Moutere valley to the Kahurangi ranges beyond.

Art - enjoy a visit to our unique art gallery.

Flaxmore Vineyards 24 Flaxmore Road, Upper Moutere 027 527 8680 flaxmore.co.nz

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A co-operative of Master Growers whose legend and cultivars have been crafted for over 150 years

H

ops have been grown here in Tasman for more than 150 years. The first commercial plantings were recorded at Wai-iti in 1843, not long after the early settlers arrived from the United Kingdom.

The industry is flourishing, with New Zealand grown hops in great demand all around the world, sought after for their unique flavour and aromas. Nowhere else can grow hops quite like ours and the 28 growers in the NZ Hop co-op now proudly grow 18 different varieties of New Zealand origin hops. Three quarters of the harvest each year is exported, much of it going to the United States, United Kingdom and Australia.

In spring our growers prepare their land and get any new plantings into the ground.

Hop plants that remain from previous harvests are coming out of winter hibernation and beginning to shoot. Farms that have looked barren through the winter will soon come to life with the lush green hop bines (yes, that’s bines with a ‘b’) as they climb upwards, at a remarkable pace.

Training will be underway from mid-October through to December, when teams work to train the bines upwards and outwards, in the familiar ‘V’ shape. This encourages light and air to circulate around the growing plants. By Christmas they will have reached the top of the five-metre support trellis, and flowers should be appearing.

This year NZ Hops growers are expanding their use of hop compostable twine to support the growing bines. This is an example of a working sustainability initiative for the co-op and fits well into the existing on-farm composting system, returning waste from hop harvest back to the land.

For our local master growers on farms from Wakefield to Tapawera, Motueka through to Riwaka, spring is full of anticipation. It’s the beginning of what everyone hopes will be yet another bumper harvest in late summer.

CHOCOLATE DOG STUDIO

INNOVATION NZ Hops has a partnership with New Zealand’s Plant & Food Research (and its predecessor DSIR) spanning more than 70 years. Growing unique and hugely popular hops doesn’t happen by accident. Years of dedication in the hop breeding programme first identifies promising new varieties.

The programme has been led by Principal Scientist Dr Ron Beatson, for over three decades. Breeding Scientist Kerry Templeton joined Ron’s team in 2017 and they have painstakingly nurtured literally thousands of seedlings over the years at the nursery based in Riwaka.

When identifying a potential new variety for commercialisation, the team look for the ability of a plant to thrive in our Tasman climate and soil, deliver a high yield and offer standout sensory characteristics. The most successful variety for NZ Hops is Nelson Sauvin™, still hugely popular after 20 years in market. But the next rising star is Nectaron® - launched in 2020 and already a standout in several award-winning beers.

Trial hop NZ-102 is performing extremely well in brewer trials. These trials have provided the confidence for a scale-up in plantings for this new variety in the 2022 season (2023 harvest) which has the potential to offer something completely new and exciting to market.

Stringing underway on Wai-iti Hops

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October 2021

Eat & Drink Local

Sprig + Fern Brewing Co.

Sublime Coffee Rosters

A bluebird day, the first day of spring.

It’s what we here at the brewery call an absolute day for it.

Sublime Coffee Roasters have become iconic in Nelson and throughout New Zealand, thanks to the unwavering belief that quality should never be compromised.

To celebrate the onset of warmer beer drinking weather, meet Sprig + Fern Brewing Co.’s latest Limited Release, Day For It Hazy – 5.6% The Mosaic hop in this hazy brings to your tastebuds mango, citrus and herbs, as well as tropical and stonefruit notes. Combine that with intense fresh lime and lemon zest of the Motueka hop, and you’ve got one heck of a hazy.

At Sublime’s Roastery and Brew Bar in New Street coffee connoisseurs can enjoy their variety of slow brew coffee and witness the magic happening in a factory tour. Stock up on your favourite coffee blend, along with brewing equipment and machinery – so you can enjoy their sublime vibes and deliciousness at home, every day.

Taste the unique flavours of Atutahi Traditionally used by Māori as a natural rongoa these three wonderful native leaf drinks are locally made and brewed in Sunny Nelson. Hand harvested Kawakawa, Kumarahou and Horopito leaf are individually blended with New Zealand Blackcurrants, Tasman Bay Superberries and NZ fruits. Exceptional flavours, lightly carbonated and local.

More information online.

sprigandfern.co.nz

sublimecoffeeroasters.co.nz

atutahi.nz

The Veggie Guy

The Junction Shop

ViaVio Cheese

For many Kiwis the appearance of asparagus is the first sign that summer is coming.

Most of their range is made right here in the Top of the South, including cheese from Thorvald, Little River Estate, Cranky Goat, and Viavio. You can FYO Oaklands milk, local honey, Kakariki or Neudorf oil, Kombucha, and apple cider vinegar. Or create the perfect snack with goodies from Craft Pate, The Sausage Press, Peter the Swiss, Nelson Naturally, Yummy pickled onions, local bread, and Aroha chocolate, all washed down with a bottle of Nelson wine. Find them at Old Factory Corner, Appleby.

ViaVio’s award winning cheeses and yogurt are all made from locally sourced A2 tested cow’s milk from Oaklands farm following traditional Italian recipes.

thejunctionshop.co.nz

viavio.co.nz/shopviavio

Quick and easy to cook, try blanching, roasting or steaming, and it’s also great on the barbecue. Serve it on its own, in a salad or with a dab of butter, a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice or some hollandaise sauce.

theveggieguy.co.nz

This year ViaVio was awarded three gold medals at the cheese awards for their bocconcini, caciocavallo, and pecorino as well as three gold medals and champion awards at the Outstanding Producers Awards for their yogurt, mascarpone and pecorino. @viavio.cheese

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Dining

McCashin’s Tap Room

Ambrosia Café

Taste of Delhi

Calling all steak lovers! McCashin’s have extended their menu to share the very best and most flavoursome beef steaks.

As soon as you step inside, the smell of freshly brewed coffee and the delicious daily fare sets your mouth watering.

Choose from dry aged Angus sirloin, T bone, ribeye or sirloin served with your choice of four delectable sauces and your favourite sides. Best served alongside one of their own locally made brews. Open breakfast until late seven days.

Ambrosia Café is licensed, so whether you want a quick coffee and something sweet, brunch, lunch with friends, a business lunch or a glass of wine and a snack, it’s all here. Open every day.

After working more than 15 years in the hospitality industry and cooking traditional Indian cuisine, owner and chef Deepchand has opened Nelson’s newest restaurant representing authentic flavours from different parts of India.

660 Main Rd, Stoke 03 547 0329 mccashins.co.nz

226 Queen St, Richmond 03 544 0025 ambrosiacafe.co.nz

89 Hardy Street, Nelson 03 922 9599 tasteofdelhi.co.nz

Mapua Village Bakery

The Indian Café

Anchor Restaurant and Bar

No matter what you fancy, they’ve got you covered with a fantastic menu full of all your favourites — homestyle baking, a huge pie selection, the famous big breakfast that is available every day until 2pm, and delicious fresh salad rolls to take away and enjoy on your spring picnics.There’s a good gluten free range and a different gourmet pie flavour each month, all topped off with a supreme coffee to add a bounce to your day.

With three great locations you can enjoy Indian Cafe’s delicious food no matter where you are. Head in and find out why Indian Café is the favourite choice for anyone looking for the highest quality food and a memorable cuisine experience.

Top quality food is best served with amazing ocean views! Blessed with a fantastic spot on the water, you will feel welcomed and won’t want to leave.

68 Aranui Rd, Mapua 03 540 3656 mapuavillagebakery.co.nz

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October 2021

All venues offer intimate restaurant dining and courtyard settings and takeaway options.

94 Collingwood St, Nelson | 03 548 4089 266 Queen St, Richmond | 03 544 8979 201 Songer St, Stoke | 03 547 0008 theindiancafe.co.nz

Specialising in local seafood and steaks, there are also delectable choices for non-meat eaters, people with special dietary needs and kids.

62 Vickerman St, Port Nelson 03 546 6614 anchorrestaurant.co.nz

Spring time warm Havoc Pork Chorizo and squid salad This simple to prepare dish is both speedy and delicious, making it a brilliant meal to put together after a busy day. Both the chorizo and squid can be ordered online from Solander.

Cook time - 15 minutes Servings - 2

Ingredients

Method

1 x 100g Havoc Pork Chorizo sausages, sliced

In a cold fry pan add sliced chorizo and turn the heat up to medium-high to render fat and caramelise on both sides.

200g natural squid rings 1 small garlic clove, minced ¼ tsp dried chilli flakes ½ x (400g) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1 ripe tomato, roughly chopped ½ bunch parsley, leaves roughly chopped ½ lemon juice and zest 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper, to taste Crusty toasted sourdough to serve

Once chorizo is crispy and the pan is hot, add in olive oil and prepared squid. Sauté until the squid is just cooked and remove from heat.

In a mixing bowl add chickpeas, tomatoes, parsley, minced garlic and a pinch of chilli and season. Then add in warm chorizo and squid plus any oils or fats from the pan. Toss salad and serve warm with a piece of crusty sourdough bread.

Solander source the very best of seafood and gourmet delights available in New Zealand and around the world.

Order at www.gourmetseafood.co.nz and have it delivered right to your door.

Tasman’s outstanding 18 hole golf course

The team at Greenacres Golf Club - Alistair Palmer, Rochelle Cook, Brendon Whitley, Andy McWhirter and Richard Sherlock.

Greenacre’s 18 hole Golf Course, only a few minutes from Richmond at Best Island, is fifty-seven hectares of golfing heaven.

W

ith spectacular views of the adjacent Waimea Inlet and its tidal ebbs and flows, there are few parklike places close to the city that are as easily accessible and picturesque. The short but lovely drive from Lower Queen Street to the course itself induces a feeling of well-being and feels a thousand miles away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Despite being one of the most challenging courses in the top of the south, Greenacres is perfectly suited to both competitive and social players of all abilities. With an excellent all-weather surface and professionally groomed fairways and greens, it is independently rated as one of New Zealand’s top forty golf courses. It remains an undiscovered gem to many.

“We frequently get the comment from visiting players that they never realised that the course was so good’, says club manager Brendon Whitley.

The club is notable for its friendliness and visitors always receive a warm welcome. There are regular tournaments including the soon to be held Richmond Unlimited Women’s Three Day Tournament which is one of the largest women’s annual tournaments in New Zealand.

“We pride ourselves on our relaxed, warm approach,” says Brendon. “We encourage people of all ages to play, from juniors at eleven to our oldest member who is eighty-nine.

Golf is one of the world’s healthiest sports because anyone can play regardless of their age or ability. It is a great way to keep up fitness while enjoying the fresh air and spending time with friends.” The club enjoys a vibrant and healthy membership and offers a range of affordable membership options.

Resident professional Alistair Palmer manages the pro shop with Ian Kain. Alistair offers lessons along with another young professional, Nick Loach. The club provides plenty of opportunities to improve one’s game. Fun workshops such as ‘She Loves Golf’, are a chance for “newbies” to be introduced to the sport. Greencare’s is also a popular destination for corporate golf days where much fun is had both on and off the course.

With superb views over the course, the club’s spacious café/ bar is an excellent place to relax after a round and to meet friends. It is also available for event hire. Only a few minutes from the Great Taste Trail, visitors are always welcome to enjoy the facilities with the café open from 10am - 3.30pm daily.

The natural environment at Greenacres is taken very seriously.

“This is an important ecological habitat for migratory birds and we are currently engaged in planting more native species,” says Brendon. The experienced greenkeepers, assisted by a group of volunteers, ensure that the course remains in pristine condition year round. Secure long-term storage area for campervans and caravans is also now available on site.

Whether you want to give golf a go, challenge your game at a top rated course, or simply enjoy a coffee in the cafe, Greenacres is a jewel in Nelson’s crown and well worth a visit.

Greenacres Golf Club Ph 03 544 6441 4 Barnett Avenue, Best Island greenacresgolfclub.co.nz

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Gardening advice with Daltons There’s plenty to do in the garden now that spring is well underway. If you need a little help, our Daltons gardening experts are here to help. Send us your gardening question and you could win a Daltons gardening prize pack! See entry details below.

How do you grow bigger carrots? I try every season; however, my carrots are so small that they are not really worth taking inside.

Although carrots are a very common vegetable, they can actually be tricky to grow in the home garden. Ohakune in the North Island is the home of New Zealand carrot cultivation for a very good reason - the volcanic soil is very light and free-draining - just what carrots love!

In clay soils or soils that become very wet in winter, carrots will either “fork” or will be very small. You can address this by adding in plenty of organic matter in the form of compost and mix it well with existing soil to improve drainage.

Another option involves building a raised planter, filled with fresh compost and mixed with Daltons Garden Time™ Enriched Garden Mix or Vegetable Mix. This will give the soil a much-needed boost and help with drainage. Sow new carrot seed directly into this new growing medium.

Carrots often grow better when soil is ‘mounded up’ (gently piled up around the plant base) after germination. Also avoid planting them too close together, so thin seedlings out (remove some) to stop overcrowding.

Once planted, water regularly to keep them growing rapidly.

Fingers crossed that you will soon harvest some ‘good looking’ carrots!

Top carrot tips: Avoid planting your carrots in the same place each season and remove any stones, old roots etc in the soil that will get in the carrot root’s way, as this can result in the root growing around the obstruction into a strange shape.

Other products to try: Garden Time™ Compost. You may also find it helpful to read our free How to Grow Vegetables Guides for more gardening advice: daltons.co.nz/how-to-guides.

Congratulations to Russell with his question about growing larger carrots.

Win an $85 Daltons tomato planting and care Pack Tomatoes taste their absolute best straight out of the home garden!

For plump juicy tomatoes this season, water plants well and feed them regularly with Daltons Garden Time™ Tomato Fertiliser. Our Daltons Tomato Planting and Care Pack has everything you need to grow bumper crops of tomatoes this season.

To enter, email your gardening question to nelsonmag@daltons.co.nz with Daltons prize pack in the subject heading. Giveaway entries must be received by Friday 29 October 2021.

The one-stop solution for tomato growing.

e c n e r e f f i d THE HARCOURTS

You can be confident you’re working with the best.

Whether you’re buying, selling, renting or looking for a property manager, it’s the people that make all the difference. When you work with Harcourts, you’re working with people that consistently deliver award-winning levels of service year after year.

years

9

years

4

No.1

Voted NZ’s Most Trusted Real Estate Brand

Reader’s Digest Quality Service Award winner

Top real estate brand in Nielsen Online Ratings

The difference that is Harcourts.

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*More unique visits than any other real estate group, Nielsen Online Ratings, March - May 2021 Harcourts Group Ltd Licensed REAA 2008

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Contact Harcourts Platinum Blue today 03 548 3034 | nelson.harcourts.co.nz

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When it comes time to choose a real estate company, start with the one that has been voted New Zealand’s Most Trusted Real Estate Brand for almost a decade and has won the Reader’s Digest Quality Service Award four years in a row. It’s a testament to the quality of the service you’ll receive and the expertise of the people you’ll be entrusting with your property. You’ll also have industry leading technology and New Zealand’s most visited real estate company website, harcourts.co.nz, behind you.

Real Estate Sales

Platinum Blue

MARKET Update REINZ Sales Data for Nelson & Richmond August 2021

Median RV $450,000 - Nelson $550,000 - Richmond

Residential Sales 53 - Nelson 31 - Richmond

Median Price $670,000 - Nelson $772,152 - Richmond

Days on Market 27 - Nelson 36 - Richmond

ANNUAL MEDIAN PRICE CHANGES NATIONAL MEDIAN PRICE

UP 25.5% TO R

With the release of the latest REINZ data relating to sales made in August, the public here in New Zealand can be forgiven for being completely confused.

NORTHLAND $650,000  8.9% BAY OF PLENTY $840,000 26.3%

R

AUCKLAND $1,200,000  26.4%

R

 23.8%

GISBORNE $500,000  8.7%

WAIKATO $780,000

$850,000 MEDIAN DAYS TO SELL

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TARANAKI $565,000  25.0% MANAWATU/WANGANUI $610,000 R  35.3% NELSON $670,000

HAWKE’S BAY $700,000  17.6%

 13.1%

TASMAN $800,000  21.2%

WEST COAST $300,000  17.6%

WELLINGTON $875,000  21.5%

MARLBOROUGH $585,000  18.8%

R

 24.3%

OTAGO $670,000 18.6%



R

RECORD MEDIAN PRICES

 INCREASED  STABLE  DECREASED

5 | REINZ Monthly Property Report

The facts show that nine of the 12 regions around the country hit new record highs in terms of sale prices. In fact, the REINZ headline and data shows that the latest lockdown has not dampened demand for or confidence in the housing market. If anything, the latest lockdowns are exacerbating the issues.

By now it would be apparent to most people that our primary issue within the market is a simple case of supply and demand, and that is not a simple issue to resolve, let alone resolve quickly. The demand side is driven, in my opinion, primarily from the housing shortage. It is a combination of the shortage we had prior to the outbreak of Covid in early 2020 magnified by the simple fact that MIQ turns out 4,000 odd beds twice a month with Kiwis returning to New Zealand. These people also need somewhere to live. Low interest rates, readily available money, and all the myriad of other aspects of life that usually create some demand for houses are just additional influences that are further impacting on the basic underlying reason for the initial demand.

Where to from here? The reality is, no one knows for sure. However, by applying the same reasoning that I have mentioned above to the current situation in New Zealand, I would assume and predict that the current situation in our market will continue for some time yet.

While MIQ remains fully booked, and the supply chains and skilled labour availability in the trades remain under pressure, we simply will not be able to build houses fast enough to meet current and projected future demand. As a result of these factors alone, we would predict that the market will continue along similar lines, with an ongoing excess of demand over supply. What is currently happening across New Zealand is not unique to us and is in fact being replicated literally around the globe.

Harcourts has always been in the business of selling property for our clients and our systems, training and processes are designed to achieve the best possible result, as our legal and fiduciary duty requires. If you are looking to sell your home in this current market, our results speak for themselves. Give your local Harcourts office a call. Currently I think the ‘Harcourts way’ is showing itself to be the best way.

Chris

CANTERBURY $619,000

SOUTHLAND $405,000  8.6%

Literally a few days prior to the release of the latest actual sales data, headlines in mainstream media were quoting a major property valuation source as saying, “Lockdown won’t lead to a fresh housing market boom”. Similar comments were echoed by other spokespeople from some of the online portals indicating that the trend for asking prices was flattening and perhaps dropping in some cases. However, reality will have once again hit home with the release of August sales data from REINZ.

Chris Harvey

Principal Harcourts Nelson and Richmond

Platinum Blue Limited Liensed Agent REAA 2008

Platinum Blue

Nelson Central 46 Bronte Street Superb Character Residence

814m2

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Price by Negotiation over $2,100,000 View harcourts.co.nz/NN25255

No expense has been spared in retaining the character and integrity of this Edwardian 2 storey character home, unique in design and boasting some stunning original features throughout. The current owners have sensitively upgraded and extended the residence over the years creating a home that combines 20th century soul with the creature comforts and conveniences of the 21st century. Situated in an established central city neighbourhood within walking distance to the CBD and schools, this is a family friendly location on the doorstep of the Maitai and Brook Valleys.

Britannia Heights 13 Istana Place 21st Century Modern!

Caroline Fletcher

Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Family Friendly in Every Way!

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M 027 453 5885 caroline.fletcher@harcourts.co.nz

M 027 453 5885 caroline.fletcher@harcourts.co.nz

646m2

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Deadline Sale (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 1pm Thursday 7th October View harcourts.co.nz/NN25324

This brilliant bungalow is in a stunning location - Hampden Street school zone with Fairfield Park close by and just a 15 minute stroll to the CBD. With all the classic bungalow features including native timber, leadlight windows plus spacious and gracious entrance. Masterfully modernised to keep the old but add in the new, the home is now fully double glazed with woodburner, heat transfer system and under and over insulation. The layout of the home flows well with large kitchen/dining opening out onto to a deck which enjoys the afternoon sun and accesses the back lawn.

Caroline Fletcher

M 027 453 5885 caroline.fletcher@harcourts.co.nz Licensed Agent REAA 2008

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Price by Negotiation View harcourts.co.nz/NN25294

Situated on Tasman Heights overlooking Nelson City to Tasman Bay and beyond, this “new kid” on the block is bursting with great design and all the bells and whistles one would expect in a home built by Russell Bruce and designed by Tony Karstens. The kitchen is pared back modern, an entertainers dream in the hub of the home with the living opening out onto a generous Kwila deck, where you and your friends can enjoy lazy afternoons in the sun lapping up the expansive uninterrupted views.

Why wait for a section and build when you can move in tomorrow.

Caroline Fletcher

Nelson South 258 Rutherford Street

1143m2

www.mortgage-express.co.nz

Steve Holbrook gives financial advice through Nelson Mortgage Services Limited that trades as Mortgage Express

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If you are a community-based organisation needing funding for a specific event, project, item, or initiative, APPLY NOW. We are in Round 51 (August 5, 2021 – October 13, 2021) All applications must be received before 11.59pm, October 13, 2021.

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Our sales people at Platinum Blue Limited donate to the Foundation with every property sale they make.

The proceeds of these donations go directly back into our community by way of grants.

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OUR PURPOSE IS SIMPLE: TO PROVIDE SUPPORT THAT HELPS, GROWS, & ENRICHES OUR COMMUNITIES.

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To find out if you are eligible, and how to apply for a grant visit www.HarcourtsFoundation.org Licensed Agent REAA 2008

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DESIGN

C R E AT I V E C O N T E N T

Get your business out there.

www.dtdesign.nz

Dave: 021 0225 3236

CONTACT SUE TO BOOK!

E: SUE@NELSONMAG.CO.NZ

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P: 027 635 2474

Creative • Affordable • Professional

Dave: 021 0225 32 Creative • Affordable

Progressive Healthcare Healthcare monitoring can start as soon as residents secure a home at Coastal View Lifestyle Village.

Affordable intermediate care in independent homes utilises the award winning one-touch Spritely technology, allowing residents to record and view health vitals and share with a GP or our telenurse.

Spritely electronic devices allow Coastal View residents to access intermediate care, assisting them to remain independent for longer. These new two and three bedroom homes are now available for private viewing.

A subsidiary of

Premium Care Coastal View’s new care centre offers specialised resthome and hospital level care, with apartment sized suites up to 40m 2 - each opening onto private decks of up to 13m2 (plus gardens).

A new generation lifestyle village.

For private viewing, call Pen (027 257 9324) or Lynn (027 430 4622).

50 Clarence Drive, Tāhunanui Hills, Nelson

real estate but not as you know it . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Ana Fierek

Client Care & Sales 021 241 0234 ana@susaguhl.co.nz

www.susaguhl.co.nz

Susa Guhl

Lead Agent 0274 969 008 susa@susaguhl.co.nz

Marc Steyn

Sales & Marketing 0274 887722 marc@susaguhl.co.nz

PO Box 1218 | Nelson 7040 | MyPlace Realty Limited | Licensed REA (2008)