The Guardian - 11 December 2024 by Top South Media

Sevens star secures supreme sports award

STEPHEN STUART

Risealeaana Pouri-Lane capped a huge 2024 by winning the NZCT Sportsperson of the Year award on Friday night for the second time.

The 24-year-old couldn’t be at the Sport Tasman function as she was with her Black Ferns side in Cape Town for the second round of World Rugby Sevens series.

So her mother Lealofi Pouri-Lane accepted both the sportsperson and Bowater Toyota Sportswoman of the Year awards on her behalf.

The Motueka local Lealofi broke out her own award-winning dance moves on the way to the stage at the Rutherford Hotel.

“I am Samoan and we like to celebrate. That’s how we celebrate and it brings the house down. It gets a bit boring if you just go up and get the award,” explains Lealofi.

Risealeaana won her second successive Olympic Sevens gold medal earlier this year in Paris and in a recorded video says her success is not only of her own doing, but many others.

Wednesday 11 December 2024

Lealofi Pouri-Lane accepting the NZCT Sportsperson of the Year Award on behalf of her daughter Risealeaana who was on Black Ferns Sevens duty in South Africa. Photo/Evan Barnes ShutterSport.

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Commotion and chaos around cone confusion

ELISE VOLLWEILER

Motueka business owners received a rather rude shock on Monday morning, unlocking their doors to discover that road cones were blocking off the customer parking up and down both sides of High Street.

Our Town Motueka coordinator Claire Hutt says that the phone calls came thick and fast, with irate and confused retailers asking what on earth was going on. “It was chaos,” Claire summarises. No, it was not International Cone Day, as one online commenter suggested, and nor were they left behind from the town’s Christmas parade –Claire stresses that those cones had been all packed away as

Nelson Tasman in race for sunshine hours

Tasman is sitting in fourth place in the race for most sunshine hours, but the Top of the South is currently claiming three of the top four spots. NIWA data shows, of the available, regularly reporting sunshine observation sites, the sunniest four regions in 2024 so far are Marlborough (2489 hours), wider Nel-

soon as the parade finished on Friday night. Instead, it was a miscommunication, according to an email response to Claire from the Tasman District Council’s Mike Schruer, who oversees community infrastructure. He reported that the cones were for Monday night’s upcoming fire well repairs, “but someone got a bit keen and obviously placed these cones at the same time as they were setting up other traffic management sites in Motueka”.

Any cones which had not already been shifted by defiant retailers were officially moved from the roadside to the footpath by 10.30am, in preparation for that evening’s fire well repair work.

son (2477 hours), Bay of Plenty (2454 hours), and Tasman (2387 hours).

Double win for Trafalgar Centre

The Trafalgar Centre has won the Medium Venue of the Year Award at the 2024 Entertainment Venues Association NZ (EVANZ) Awards in Auckland last week. Judges commended the venue for its exceptional service, outstanding events, and commitment to overall excellence.

NZCT dish out $215k in grants

The New Zealand Community Trust has dished out more than $215,000 in it’s latest round of funding for the Top of the South. Among the grants, Motueka Over Fifties Social Hub was awarded just over $5k for underfloor insulation and polythene, The Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust was give $70,000 towards helicopter operations and the NZ Power Boat Association were given $5k to purchase a rescue tender boat.

Motueka’s High Street retailers were perturbed to have their customer spaces blocked by traffic cones on Monday morning.

Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

Sevens star secures supreme sports award

FROM PAGE 1

“I feel very humbled. While I am now based in the Bay of Plenty, I still feel the love for back home,” declares the Motueka High School product.

“We are extremely proud of her. The advice we gave her was to keep humble and stay humble,” says Lealofi, who agrees she probably flies under the radar in a star-studded Kiwi side. Since winning both Sport Tas-

man awards in 2021, Risealeaana has gone on to captain the Black Ferns Sevens when regular skipper Sarah Hirini was injured last season.

“We knew she was capable of captaining the team. It’s not the first

time she has done that in her career,” confirms her mother.

And “Risi” completed a big weekend in style, helping the Ferns take out the women’s final in Cape Town early on Monday morning New Zealand time.

They were stunned by two early tries from the USA but rebounded to win 26-12 with “Risi” converting three of their four tries in the final match of a busy year. That took her team back to the top of the standings in the series.

The Rutherford Hotel was packed with athletes of all ages on Friday night as they vied for honours at the NZCT Sport Tasman Sport + Recreation Awards. Olympians, other international performers and provincial achievers from a wide range of sports were up for team, individual and coaching awards. Of the 110 nominees, 41 alone were in the CNX & Johnston Associates Emerging Talent section which highlighted the sporting depth and diversity in the region. Given their ongoing sports commitments, several of the award winners were unable to attend the glittering function so provided acceptance speeches by video link.

GoldenEdge Sportsman of the Year

Mako captain Finlay Christie edged five of his teammates to claim the Sportsman of the Year award. Blues Super Rugby pre-season commitments kept the former All Black halfback from tonight’s function but on a video link he said he was surprised and delighted to win.

Lifetime Contribution to Sport

The seven recipients were: Dave Dawber, Stuart Hague and Derek

Shaw (athletics), Stu Reid (football), Jos Pattison (swimming), John Jary (table tennis), and Greg du Feu (cricket).

Johnston Associates Emerging Talent Award

Weightlifter Litia Nacagilevu was rapt to be acknowledged for her sport.

NBS Community Impact Award

Active Little Learners took this award. It was set up almost three years ago and goes to early child-

hood centres and get youngsters moving and active.

Tasman Pine Forests Junior Sports Team of the Year

The Nelson U18 Basketball Team won for the second year running.

Rātā Foundation Diversity & Inclusion Award

The Inclusive Sport Trust was adjudged the winner. “We support people who have learning difficulties, or learn differently, by

providing sports opportunities for anyone from age five to 60,” says Inclusive Sport Trust board member Helen Bywater.

New World Stoke Masters

Athlete of the Year

Touch Football international

Emma Paaka was a popular winner. The Motueka Zumba teacher represented New Zealand in the Over 40 Touch World Cup in England where they finished second. Emma couldn’t be at the awards as she was coaching at the New Zealand Secondary School

Halberg Foundation Athlete with a Disability

CNX Emerging Talent Award

Basketball star Hayden Jones, from Waimea College held off a big challenge from rugby. He made his Tall Blacks debut this season and is due to take up a scholarship at Wisconsin University next June.

Touch Nationals in Rotorua.

The winner was swimmer Nohorua Kalani.

A multi-school kapa haka festival raised the grandstand roof at Motueka’s Sport Park on Friday, with tamariki standing tall and delivering their performances with confidence and pride. Taking part were students from St Peter Chanel (whose group is called Ngā Raukura-o-Hato Petera, pictured), Parklands (Ngā Teina and Ngā Mātātupu), Māpua, Riuwaka, Mahana, Tasman, and Tapawera Area School. Each school was given a 20-minute performance slot for their set. A range of waiata and haka were performed. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

‘Scary’ – water regulation costs fall on councils

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

Councils are rankling under Government proposals that would see them pay large levies at a time when they are already under financial pressure.

The Water Services Authority –Taumata Arowai, the body which regulates water across the country to ensure it’s in line with national standards, currently receives its total yearly budget of $25.3 million from the Government. However, a new proposal would see the Government cover just 16 per cent of the cost, with the remaining 84 per cent to be paid by water service providers at a rate of $4.14 per person, excluding GST.

The Commerce Commission is also being tasked with ensuring

residents get good value for money from their water services.

The commission’s oversight, costed at $6.5 million for the 2025/26 year, is also proposed to be completely funded by local government.

A combination of these two levies would see the most populous region, Auckland, lumped with annual fees of $9,009,525 while the country’s smallest district, Kaikōura, would pay $22,925.

Councils currently deliver water services across much of the country outside of Auckland and Wellington and so they will initially pay the levies.

However, under the Government’s Local Water Done Well policy, it’s expected water service delivery in many areas will shift to new council-controlled organisations which, as the water pro-

Giving big to those in need

brighter and more meaningful,”

More than 300 local families in need are set for a brighter Christmas this year, thanks to the Fifeshire Foundation’s The Big Give appeal.

Now in its 13th year, the charity’s annual Christmas fundraiser is in full swing and they are now putting the final call out for donations. The families will each receive a Christmas parcel containing festive treats, gifts for children, grocery vouchers and family activity vouchers.

“This time of year can be especially difficult for families facing hardship, but with the support of our generous community we are able to make their Christmas

Fifeshire Foundation executive officer Shanine Hermsen says.

This year, 718 children from all over the region will receive a gift through the initiative, and families are nominated for a parcel by social workers, agencies and schools. The circumstances for hardship are varied, ranging from families dealing with illness, solo parents struggling to make ends meet, to grandparents raising grandchildren.

“Some of these families literally wouldn’t have anything otherwise.”

Shanine says, despite many people weathering tough financial times, Nelsonians have dug deep. Individuals, businesses and com-

viders, would then be expected to pay the levies.

In Tasman, elected members from the region’s two councils have balked at their proposed fee of $314,409.

Mayor Tim King said the levies would be challenging, particularly for smaller councils.

“That is a significant component of our waters budget … any cost increases that are not directly related to service delivery and physical infrastructure pose real challenges.”

Richard Kirby, Tasman District Council’s group manager community infrastructure, agreed and described the proposed costs as “scary”.

Local Government New Zealand president, Mayor Sam Broughton, said he wanted the Government to share costs of the new

water regulatory regime.

“Clean, safe drinking water is enjoyed by all New Zealanders as well as the tourists who visit our beautiful country – not just the ratepayers in each community,”

Sam said.

Taumata Arowai, responding to questions sent to Minister of Local Government Simeon Brown, said it had been established with the intention of eventually being funded by a levy.

“It is common for regulators to be funded by levies. Levies generally cover regulatory functions that are performed for the benefit of consumers and communities,”

a spokesperson for the authority said. The levy would fund the authority to ensure that water across the country is safe, reliable, and improved.

The spokesperson said that de

spite additional fees by way of the levies, the Government requires the authority to deliver quality regulation while reducing the cost for drinking water suppliers by improving efficiency.

New wastewater standards and improvements to drinking water quality assurance rules, both currently being developed by Taumata Arowai and due to be consulted on next year, are expected to reduce the financial and regulatory burden on water service providers. Anticipated amendments to the Water Services Act 2021 will also require the authority to more explicitly address cost as part of its decision-making, the spokesperson added.

munity groups have rallied to the cause, as well as 12 local schools.

“It’s harder for some people to donate, but people still want to help.

“It’s amazing just how generous people are.”

Shanine would also like to express her gratitude to everyone who has helped, including their main sponsors NBS, Nelson City Council, Milestone Homes, CNF

Legal and Mediaworks. The parcels will be delivered to families at the end of this week with one lucky family set to receive an Abel Tasman Eco Tour, courtesy of NBS.

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KATE RUSSELL

Fifeshire Foundation executive officer Shanine Hermsen, front, packs some gift bags for The Big Give. She is pictured with, back row from left: chairperson Peter Verstappen, trustee Angela Ricker and Tracee Neilson from Big Brothers Big Sisters. Front row: trustee Ruth Easther and programme coordinator Emma Bennett. Photo: Kate Russell.

Riwaka pies crumby in all the right ways

ELISE VOLLWEILER

The humble pie is a Kiwi staple – although a new non-fiction book is celebrating some as a little less humble than others. The pastry delights at Riwaka’s Little Dynamite Café have been highlighted as some of the country’s best, in the newly-released book entitled “New Zealand’s Best Gourmet Pies”.

Little Dynamite is small

on square-footage but big on flavours, according to the book’s author, Derek Morrison.

The business’s owner, Leanne Young, says she had “heard through the grapevine to come here”. Her café is stop number 17 on the author’s northto-south pie exploration journey, just before Wakefield’s Wakey Bakey and after the Janus Bakkerij in Lower Hutt. Its six-page spread tells

the history of the business, which began life as Ginger Dynamite about 10 years ago.

Leanne moved to the area in 2019 and took over the ownership as the country was emerging from the initial shock of Covid lockdowns.

She traded in the Ginger part of the name, as outgoing owner Brad Dalton was taking his red hair with him, but kept the Dynamite, which match-

es her personality.

The pies – only six va rieties – are hand-craft ed with their distinctive twisted seam around their pastry bases, and Leanne won’t insult any by singling out one as the most popular flavour.

“They all sell, aye!” she laughs.

The book is available to buy at the café, and Leanne calls it a “great pressie idea for all avid pie lovers”.

TIMELESS BALLET SET TO DELIGHT NELSON AUDIENCES: Motueka siblings Finn and Sophie Madigan are amongst the cast of Ballet Nelson’s production of The Nutcracker, which is on this weekend at Nelson’s Theatre Royal. The dancers from Nelson will also be joined by three guest professional dancers from Wellington. The three sold out shows are Friday, 13 December, at 7pm, and Saturday, 14 December at 2pm and 7pm. Photo: Supplied.

Little Dynamite owner

Leanne Young is delighted to have her café featured in a new book that celebrates the nation’s best pies.

Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

Starlight parade sparkles

ELISE VOLLWEILER

Santa has spoken, and the results are in.

The winner of Friday night’s Motueka New World Starlight Christmas is The Christmas Project, a local fundraising initiative that aims to ensure that no child is left wondering why Santa didn’t come.

Riwaka School took out the float for the best school entry, while the energetic lead-foots on mobility scooters helped the Jack Inglis Aged Care Home scoop the number one community spot.

ITM hammered out the business category, and the resplendent Māui-lookalike at the head of the

Te Kōhanga Reo o Te Āwhina helped capture the friends and family vote.

Honourable mentions went to the sweet little sea creatures on the Talleys float and the irrepressible joy that the RSE workers bring to every parade.

Our Town Motueka coordinator Claire Hutt says there were six judges this year – Brent Maru, Nicola Hollyer, Sally Curtis, Jan Reilly, Terri Everett, Dylan Brew and Brent Steinmetz.

She says the parade had a great turn-out and a wonderful atmosphere.

“It’s always just so electrifying.”

Photos: Elise Vollweiler

Fish and kids were in abundance at the Māpua Wharf on Sunday for the Māpua Boat Club’s Kids’ Fishing Competition. The Hall family from Mapua with Charlie, 7, left, Oscar, 3, Daryl and Milissa had a small trevally hooked from their spot on the wharf, but in the afternoon they were still seeking the catch of the day. Forty-one young fishers lined up with their rods or lines and when the final results were tallied, the largest fish of the day was a 521gm kahawai. Most of the top winning catches for the different age groups were mullet, yellow-eyed mullet and spottie. One young fisher caught 15 fish during the competition. Photo: Anne Hardie.

CROWDS FLOCK TO CELEBRATE TRADITION AND TALENT AT

A&P SHOW:

Whether your penchant was to pet a rabbit or be propelled through the sky, the Motueka A&P Show has something for everyone. Saturday’s show was met with glorious weather, and the many patrons had a huge range of food options and entertainment choices to keep them engaged throughout the day.

Pictured are Zayden Head and Zaley Krammer, giving Derek the greedy sheep a little affection.

Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

Local history brought alive at Lower Moutere

Many locals will recall the tame eels that made the Newport’s farm in Wilsons Rd, home back in the 70’s.

Each day, twice a day, people could visit the farm and see the eels being fed by Mr Newport, with his trusty dog, Lucky, beside him.

To guide the tourists to the attraction was a large carving completed by Garnett Drummond, advising them of the times for visiting, sat out the front of the Wilson Rd homestead. Even the Leyland brothers visited once and did an interview!

Of course, as time moves on, things change, properties change hands, and the eel attraction ceased.

The farm was sold, and carvings seemed to disappear. Until one day, the Lower Moutere School caretaker, Stu Newport, was asked about the carvings that were found on a property in Hau Road. With great interest, Stu visited and relived the story of his father’s attraction.

Skip forward to 2024, Stu decided it was time for the saved carvings to have a permanent home, near

to where their life began.

Along with the masterful work of local artist Viki Cowling, the carvings and inserted painting now tell us a story of what was once a special feature of the Lower Moutere region.

Taking pride of place at Lower Moutere School, Stu and his partner Vi unveiled the carvings and painting at their new home, last Friday.

The school is incredibly proud to have this piece of local history situated there now for all to admire and be the carers for. Please feel free to call in and have a look –who knows, Stu may well be there to give you the story of the works himself!

Motueka’s ‘best day’ celebrates peace

ROBYN PARKES

What was considered to be the best of all the celebrations held in Motueka took place on Saturday 19 July 1919, the reason being, ‘peace’.

At 10am, in front of the Post Office, the Territorials and returned serviceman lined up in a hollow square (a square with a space in the middle) and the day’s celebrations began with Horatio Everett reading the official declaration of peace. The band played the National Anthem in front of a large crowd, after which speeches were delivered by the Mayor (J. Wallace) and R. Hudson, MP.

A tribute was paid to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and thanks given to all New Zealand soldiers with the younger generation reminded of what had been done for them.

Under the direction of Sergeant Major Hurdley, as chief marshal, a procession was formed. It was headed by the Motueka Brass Band, followed by a muster of Territorials and Cadets. Next were returned soldiers, in uniform and seated in cars provided by citizens.

Each car was escorted by school children on either side, in groups of eight representing the Allies.

Banners on each car of the returned soldiers bore the names

of battles in which they took part. Civilians and children in fancy dress joined the procession as did St Thomas school children, dressed as Greek girls bearing symbols of peace.

Decorated vehicles, a canoe with wahine Māori demonstrating poi exercises and paddling move-

ments and a lorry carrying children singing waiata and performing a haka completed the line up. Once the procession was finished the competing groups of school children were assembled in the school grounds for the purpose of being judged by Mesdames T. Ovens, L. Mackay, E. Anderson,

and H. Henderson. France, (Riwaka School) was awarded the first prize for the attention to correct detail in the dresses, and the deportment of the children. United States (Umukuri) came second with a striking display. Canada (Pangatotara) scored

third prize with the dresses being beautifully varied and arranged. Italy (Motueka) was very highly commended, and Portugal (Hau), Serbia (Ngatimoti), and Belgium (Harakeke) were also commended by the judges.

The judging was recorded as being difficult with all being of a high standard.

Around 600 children participated and were rewarded with refreshments provided by the School Committee.

From 1pm to 5pm they enjoyed a picture show, held at the Institute Hall. For the adults, afternoon tea was provided for the returned soldiers in the Horticultural Hall and a seven-a-side football tournament took place in the cricket ground. Eight teams competed and after a spirited contest Wanderers A beat Tikaokao in the final by a try to nil.

The day ended with a torchlight procession in the evening under the control of the Fire Brigade. The route was through High St and Pah Street to the cricket grounds, with the way illuminated by torches and coloured lights. Many of those attending had dressed up in fancy costumes. The finale was a great display of fireworks, and thus ended a day that was long remembered in Motueka and surrounding districts.

Local artist Viki Cowling and Lower Moutere School caretaker, Stu Newport. Photo: Supplied.

Motueka residents gather at the Post Office. Photo: Nelson Provincial Museum 1919, Miscellaneous collection.

The cherry on top of a hot summer’s day

ELISE VOLLWEILER

It’s that time again when fruit ice cream goes from being a pleasant possibility to a beachday imperative.

Thomas Bros Ice Cream and Cherry Stall has opened its doors for the season, with its four ice cream machines already being put to delicious work.

Their Earlise cherries are currently topping the ice creams, soon to be followed by Rosan, and the Sambas should be ready for Christmas.

Thomas Bros uses only new-season cherries in and on its ice creams, which could be why this is the business’s best-selling flavour.

Motueka’s other ice cream outlets – some permanent, like Toad Hall, Delicious and Top of the Town dairy; some temporary, like the seasonal fruit sellers on the southern and northern outskirts of town – have also opened their gates to serve the queues of sun-soaked locals and tourists.

Jorgia Troughton has returned for a third season of ice cream mastery at Thomas Bros Ice Cream and Cherry Stall, on Main Road Riwaka. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

Chris Sharples and Emily Stewart

Cody Archibald and Amanda Ayers with Adeline, 3

Harlow Franklin and Aurora Allan

Pang Namkhammoon with Ticha, 3 and Thida, 7

Val Nuttall, Rosie Lohmann and Rex Barker

Stazeia Kohey and Payton McBeth

Steve Bache with Hudson, Ella and Evelyn

Aaron Geary, Amy Burke, Ryan Coppins, Scott Sturgeon, Alesha Sturgeon

Ann Rogers, Elliott Booth. Elizabeth Lockwood, Elizabeth Gentry and Maiatea Stephens-Ruawai

Gus McBride, Billy Taikato, Zander Martin and Joe Martin

No hot dogs this summer

KATE RUSSELL

Local vets are urging dog owners to keep their pups cool and calm this summer after soaring temperatures in Nelson and Tasman last week.

Clare Broderick, head nurse at Town & Country Vet, says hot cars, footpaths and sand can be dangerous for dogs and owners need to be mindful of when and

where they walk and play with their pets.

“If an animal feels too hot for too long, they’re unable to maintain their internal body temperature,”

she says. “This can result in your pet becoming unwell and suffering from heatstroke.”

Clare says there are many different factors at play when deciding if it’s too hot to walk your dog outside.

“The breed of dog, whether they have a short coat or long coat, their age, health, and where and how long you are walking… If you wouldn’t go out for a walk without a hat, then don’t take the dog out.

“I would advise people to exercise their dogs only in the early morning or late evening, during the summer.”

When at the beach, Clare says to

While Togo normally stays home during the heat of the day, he was more than happy to pose for a photo to keep his friends safe. Photo: Sara Hollyman.

take your footwear off and test the heat of the sand with your bare feet.

“If it is too hot for human feet, it is too hot for dog feet.”

Other tips include keeping your pets hydrated and having plenty of water available, sticking to shaded areas and grass, applying sunscreen if required, and leaving your dog at home so it’s not in a hot car.

If you suspect your dog has heatstroke, use cold water on the head, underparts and feet, and wrap them in cold, wet towels. However, it is always wise to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible. Clare says that cats do a better job at maintaining their temperature and you will often find them seeking out shady, cool spots during the day, however, they are also at risk of heatstroke.

Whales strand at Farewell Spit

This seems to happen every year and every year someone always mentions that they should put a series of bouys out there emitting a signal that is DANGER for the whales so they avoid that area where they strand ..apparently, they do this in a lot of locations around the world in areas of whale strandings ..sounds like a worth while investment to me .

Steve Woodfine

There will be a reason they do this.. what’s going on out there at sea eh.. When we find out, we can then protect them..

Marion Maxwell

Pesky magpies

swooping across Tasman

Bloody noisy creepy things, we’ve had a huge amount of them near our house! Hubby’s culled a few.

Donna Greenhough

When I was growing up on the farm, Magpies were shot on the spot. So never got established in Nelson.

Jeanette Pauling

If I hear one here in our part of Tasman they get short sharp loud bog off!! Evil

birds

Philippa Foes-Lamb

We watched a magpie attack a bird in the air so it couldn’t fly, disabled it and then kill on the ground. they are such vicious birds. I’ve been attacked twice by magpies while biking - with one wrapped its wing around my face as I was biking along. Anti Magpie cable ties on the helmet work!

Diane Chandler

Drop back pays for volleyballers

Woooow, Naman! Congratulations to proud parents.

Mary Camille Meria

NZ-first for Tākaka Hill

If it’s anything like wildwire in Wanaka , it will be amazing.

Craig Hockley

This was such a fun activity took the boy along for a fun afternoon of climbing. Our guests are going to love it, and only 10 mins from the Lodge!!

Kea Ridge Lodge Accommodation

Omg epic

Jade Daly

FELLA

Waimea Dam costs balloon

Gift that keeps giving!

Janet Ellison

The Waimea River looks the best condition I’ve seen at this time of year for ages. Not sure if it’s a coincidence or the controlled flows are contributing to the health. Probably both.

Dave Roberts

“Ancillary works, such as installing a new turbine, platforms, and bridges were ongoing and were expected to be completed in line with budgets.” Track record for staying in line with budgets…not so good!

Fraser Brown

Why is it called The Waimea Community Dam when Motueka residents have to pay also.

Jacqui Griffiths

Back in 2013 we were campaigning against the dam when it’s estimates we’re at $50-60m. Even back in 2017 they were telling us $82.5m but no, they knew best.

Sue Wilson

How about this added cost not be passed on to ratepayers.

Dennis Goodman

Fella@facebook

“The promise of time off, adventures and the

“The communication you have with friends and family a lot more than usual.”

“The weather, to spend more time at the beach and the river.”

Steampunk Christmas cards and decorations

Wednesday 11 December, 5pm-6.30pm

All welcome, materials supplied.

Whimsical Christmas cards and decorations

Friday 13 December – 1.30pm-3pm

Children’s Christmas Crafts

Wednesdays 11, 18 December, 3.30pm4.30pm

Christmassy Storytime

Thursday 12 December, 10am-11am

Unmet Friends

Friday 13 December, 10.30am-12pm

Bookcafe – Monday 10.30am-12pm –Meet at Toad Hall

51 Threads Exhibition

Saturday 14 December, 10.30am-12pm

Noraini Milne will share her story of how the project 51 Threads started. This project represents remembrance of loved ones in the mosque terror attacks in Christchurch. Morning tea available. All welcome.

Share Christmas Traditions and Afternoon Tea

Monday 16 December, 1.30pm-3pm

Do you have favourite customs in your family or culture?

Christmas cards for Seniors

Tuesday 17 December, 10.30am-12pm

Make Christmas cards for those alone this Christmas.

Enjoy a cuppa and friendly conversation. All materials supplied.

Steph McLeod

Josh Leenhouwers

Elaine Shields

James Ivamy

What’s your favourite thing about the lead up to Christmas?

Exploring the wonders of wai

From whales to whitebait, the magic of sea and freshwater lifeforms was the subject of a multi-school sea week event earlier this week.

The Mana Whaitake event pulled together 320 students across 10 schools, as well as a large contingent of home-schoolers.

Mana Whaitake translates as “meaningful achievement” and allows students to engage in activities with experts to inspire and generate action and education about the health of the wai (water) and taiao (environment).

The students worked in and around Kaiteretere, traversing between six activity stations. Senior students from Riwaka School also shared their findings about the effects of plastics on the marine environment, following on from their recent experience snorkelling at Tonga Marine Reserve with Tasman Bay Guardians. At one station the students were able to climb on the brand-new coastguard boat and learn about marine pests

with the biosecurity team from Tasman District Council.

The Birdsong Trust focussed on mammalian pests and the damage that they cause to our ecosystems.

At the patterns in nature station, shapes were creatively used to make sand sculptures.

The groups here also enjoyed the chance to wet their feet on such a hot day.

Shirley, the education lead from Project Jonah, brought along a whale to mimic a stranding.

The students measured him and learned how to keep him hydrated, simulating Project Jonah’s work with whales and dolphins.

The shady area beside Withell’s Walk was utilised to discover more about freshwater habitats and identify risks to our native freshwater species, such as the redfin bully and īnanga.

Linda Jenkins, resplendent with her little blue penguin earrings, shared how the Little Blue Penguin Trust cares for and protects the world’s smallest species of penguins, which

are native to New Zealand and Southern Australia.

Over at Little Kaiteretere, Donna McLeod led local stories and history as well as a beach discovery at Ryder Reserve in the morning.

The Tasman Bay Guardians’ Experiencing Marine Reserves team led a snorkel experience for 37 students, who saw up close and personal some of the ocean’s wonders, with starfish, sea cucumbers, kina and spotties abundant in the area. The special appearance of a very chilled out eagle ray was everyone’s favourite.

The rangatahi from Motueka High School, working with Harold Helmbright, volunteered on the day, and their help was invaluable.

A big thank you to all those who participated and presented, and the Kaiteretere Recreation Reserve Board for sponsoring the event.

Congratulations to Dovedale School who gathered the most points and were given this year’s Mana Whaitake o Aorere award.

Around 320 students were involved in the sea week event around Kaiteretere. Photo: Supplied.

WHITWELLS MENSWEAR

SPORTSWEAR MENSWEAR FOOTWEAR

Over the hill again for young Collingwood footballers

STEPHEN STUART

Football or athletics was the choice facing Collingwood Area School students late last month. Stay in Golden Bay for an inter-school track and field meeting or head to Stoke and take on other Year 5 and 6 students in the annual Hira School Football Tournament. There were 57 teams from 18 schools competing with only newcomers Murchison Area

School having travelled further.

“I think they found it a little bit daunting when they first arrived but they quickly settled in,” says Collingwood Area School teacher Rosie Riley. They had the option of playing in the competitive division or social.

“This year we have been really pushing football hard and we have lots of competitive kids. So it was a no brainer putting

all of our players in to the competitive grade,” declares Rosie, who reckons football proved a more popular option than athletics that day.

It was the young footballers’ second trip over Tākaka Hill this year, with Rosie saying it was a great opportunity to mix with other kids and see how other schools operated.

“That is the great thing about football, we can have boys and girls together in the same

teams,” says Rosie. Each side played at least four games over 12 minutes with no half-time.

The Hira School tournament has been going for 25 years and for the fourth year in a row, Richmond Primary School took out the competitive section. Richmond United beating Saint Paul’s Blue 3-0 in the final. But for many it was all about having a fun day out.

The

Rosie Riley and her “very competitive” Collingwood players at the annual Hira School Football Tournament at Saxton Field.

Milestone Homes Top of the South Speedway hosts round two of the Lift N Shift Streetstock Tri-Series, bought to us by Burson Logging this Saturday. Entries have maxed out with 25 cars entered from around the South Island, 4 from Rotorua and the 11a of Corry TeRito from Auckland.Included in the line-up is Balclutha’s 1nz Allan Finch and his predecessor ex 1nz Paul Leslie. The return of Benji Smaill, who had a brief flirt in the Stock cars, will add some intrigue, he exited just as he started to dominate the grade in early 2020’s, while Canterbury’s Mike Jones and Kahu Epiha have had solid results early in the new season. Local speedsters Perry Soper and Ryan Musgrove will be keen to get amongst it.

The Tri-Series runs on Friday at Greymouth before moving to Nelson on Saturday with the final round in Blen-

heim on Sunday, in its second year of running, it proved popular even with a rainout in Greymouth, the series has got good traction with the NZ Streetstock title here in Nelson next year.

One of the great things about the Lift N Shift series is the teamwork amongst the drivers, everyone helps to keep all the cars running over the weekend, parts are sourced from any trailer to get the cars back up and running. Last year ,after Cody McCarrison rolled, there were about 15 guys working on the car until 3am to get it over to Blenheim for the final round. While the competition is fierce on the track, there’s plenty of ban-

ter over a few brews and a feed afterwards. There is always strength in numbers when you travel to NZ titles and the South Islanders have won the title over the past 3 years, the challenge to travel to Auckland for this year’s title means pooling resources is vital. There is a great line-up in the Tri-series, winning it won’t be easy, relying on teammates and avoiding the hits are key to coming out on top. The support grades will contend some other titles up for grabs. The closed Super Stock Club Championship will see the local pecking order under challenge once again, a couple of Tiger cubs with their tails up. The Pam

Nixon Memorial will be contested in the Production Saloon grade while the Quarter Midgets have their club championship to run, the results too close to call after multiple winners in respective grades over recent meetings.

Motueka High School wins league tournament

STEPHEN STUART

More than 20 years after rugby league superstar Simon Mannering left Motueka High School, a modern-day league team has won a cup named after him.

The school’s girls’ team has beaten Queen Charlotte College in the Year 9 and Year 10 division at the Simon Mannering Festival played at Tahunanui.

They won the best-of-three series and their skills were praised by event organiser Phillip Benseman, the Te Tauihu Rugby League (TTRL) Project Lead.

They were one of 18 teams taking part in the nine-a-side tournament which was fast paced because there were no scrums.

“There were lots of positives to come out of this including Simon offering encouragement to the players. Once they realized what he had achieved coming out of Nelson, they could see the pathway to go further. There’s some real talent emerging in the top of the South Island,” declares Phillip.

He is also involved with fostering the growth of U14 and U15 league through the Marlborough Navigators, which has nine players from Motueka.

Phillip insists youth development is the key if Nelson and Marlborough are to return to the days of having a provincial representative team like the Orcas or the Titans.

As for the biggest league success to come out of the region, Simon is a Mapua-based builder these days after captaining the Kiwis and the New Zealand Warriors.

He played a club record 301 NRL games for the Auckland outfit.

The Motueka High School Y9 and Y10 league side after winning its section at the Simon Mannering Festival. Back row: Paul Holden, Maddy Farrer, Te Atahua Gage, Simon Mannering, Siuila Musika, Mania Forskitt. Ashley Stevens, Maria Randall. Front row: Zahli Greenhough, Keira Allan, Riley Knight, Macey Holden and Riria Graham-Wineera. Photo: Supplied.

Community Notices

MONDAY

MOTUEKA HIGHLAND PIPE BAND, Mon, 7pm. Band is located beside Motueka Recreation Centre. Promoting Scottish tradition and culture. Look forward to your participation. Info: Ph: 027284 8361.

MAPUA FRIENDSHIP CLUB. Indoor bowls, 1st & 3rd Mon. Mapua Bowling Club rooms. 2pm, Bring a plate of afternoon tea. Lots of laughs. Ph: Val 035403685.

MOTUEKA ELYSIUM Mon, 9.30am, Muses Café. For Widows and Widowers. Join us for coffee and chat, friendship, and support. Ph: Carol 035285027.

WOULD YOU LIKE A BIKE? Bike Hub Nelson accepts donations of good used bikes, fixes them up and gives them away for a small koha. 142 Saxton Rd. Mon, 5.30-7pm. For other opening times and a map e: bikehubnelson@gmail.com.

MOTUEKA BETTER BREATHERS, Mon, 11.30am, Brass Band Hall, Old Wharf Rd. A 60-minute series of guided exercises done seated or standing, specifically designed to help those with breathing difficulties. Ph: Jess 0275467675.

TUESDAY

MOTUEKA BRASS Tues Evenings. Discover your musical talent with us! Join our lively brass band for an unforgettable experience to join Ph: 021728168 or come along.

YOGA. If you have or have had cancer, we offer restorative yoga classes. Tues, 12.30pm. To Reg, Ph: 5287669.

MOCKINGBIRDS MUSIC GROUP Tues, 2-3.30pm, Senior Net, Pah St. If you enjoy some fun singing/playing music, come along with your instrument, we’d love you to join us. Beginners welcome. Ph: Sue 02102416155.

HOPE TENNIS CLUB SOCIAL TENNIS, Every Tues, 9.30am, Hope Tennis Courts, Hope Domain. All abilities most welcome. Queries Ph: 0211729257.

WEDNESDAY

THE MOTUEKA HEART SUPPORT Group Christmas get together. Wed 18 Dec, 10:30am, Motueka Library Community Room. For further information contact Janet Kelly ph: 0272296260.

MOTUEKA SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLUB, Wed, 7.30pm, Lower Moutere Hall. Keep fit while having fun. All ages, no partner needed. First time free. Enq Ph: Fay 0210393559.

SHARLAND CYCLES 5K FUN RUN & WALK from Club Waimea. Wednesday evenings till 18th Dec. Registration 5.30pm. Race briefing 6pm. More info www.waimeaharriers.nz

DEATH CAFÉ, 2nd Wed of month, 10-11.30am. Revite Café, 256 High St. An open space for people to talk about death and dying. margaret@margaretmccallum.com

AGE CONCERN TEA & TALK, Tea and talk will start up again Wed 8 Jan. Merry Christmas everyone.

KNIT & NATTER Wed, 10-12pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Hub, 10 Pah St. Friendly group for all ages. Includes refreshments. All welcome.

RIWAKA BOWLING CLUB Fun for all the family - bowls and friendly guidance provided. Please wear flat soled shoes. 6pm –7.30pm Wednesdays till the end of daylight saving. $5.00 entry, School Rd Riwaka (next to Riwaka School).

WALK 4 HEALTH, Wed, 9am, Motueka Community Garden. 3050 min walk at your own pace, for any age, any fitness and size. Ph:0273015598.

TOASTMASTERS MOTUEKA meet 1st & 3rd Wed of month, 6.45pm start, St John’s rooms, Jack Inglis Hosp, Courtney St. Gain speaking confidently, friendly environment. More Info Ph: Peter 0277468311.

MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL Office is open Wednesdays 11am to 3pm at Motueka Community House, Decks Reserve. Call in for arts info, funding assistance, and supporting art activities ideas for Motueka.

THURSDAY

NVC PRACTICE GROUP (NONVIOLENT / COMPASSIONATE COMMUNICATION), Every 2nd Thurs, 7-8.30pm, Motueka. In school term. For info e: margaret@margaretmccallum.com.

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meet 1st Thurs of month, 1.30-3.30pm, Broadgreen House, 276 Nayland Rd. Ph: Bill 035448635 or 035391137.

MOTUEKA LIGHTHOUSE Meets last Thurs every month. Insight-

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY

50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: office@topsouthmedia.co.nz

ful presentations/workshops. 7pm-9pm, Motueka Community House, Decks Reserve. Donations appreciated. All welcome. angel3000.h@gmail.com or facebook Motueka Lighthouse.

MOTUEKA G.R.G 2nd & 4th Thurs, 1-3pm, St Andrews lounge, 64 High St. Support group welcomes grandparents/kin raising/ supporting grandchildren. Join us for a confidential relaxed and supportive time with others. Ph: 0211337299.

MEDITATION, Weekly meditation sessions open to all. Thurs, 12.15-12.45pm, Te Noninga Kumu - Motueka Library. During term time. No registration needed. Just come along. Info: Ph: Louise 0278789240.

NELSON BAYS HARMONY CHORUS, (women’s choir), is seeking new members to join our happy group. Thurs evenings, Club Waimea, Richmond. Ph: Carole 0274360910.

MOTUEKA 50+ WALKING GROUP Thurs. More info Ph: 0212640403 e: secretary50pluswalkers@gmail.com, or www. motueka50pluswalkers.org.nz.

RUMMIKUB Thurs, 1-4pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Club, 10 Pah St. Friendly group, includes refreshments. All welcome. Ph: Keith 0274516422.

THE DOCTORS MOTUEKA – Walking Group, Thurs, 9am, by the Janie Seddon Shipwreck carpark. Walking for 30 mins, suitable for all fitness levels. Make your daily walk more fun and meet new people. Ph: 035288358.

FRIDAY

MULTICULTURAL MOTUEKA welcomes migrants and refugees every Tues, 8.30-1pm, Fri, 8.30 -2pm, Community House, Decks Reserve. We provide connection and practical assistance for newcomers to our region as well as support for all cultural activities happening in our community. Ph 027 5286744 sez@multiculturalnt.co.nz.

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

NNELSON BRANCH OF ROYAL NZ AIRFORCE ASSOCIATION

Meet 2nd Sat each month, 12pm, Club Waimea, Richmond, Phil’s Restaurant. Interesting speakers, raffles and members interested in Aviation Ph: Trever Squires 039706644 or John Bethwaite 035476634. Cost of meal $25

HOUSIE: 1st and 4th Sat of month, 10 Pah St. Over 50s Social Hub. Ph: Jude 0273244226. All Welcome. Afternoon tea included. Cards $4. Raffles available.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Sat, 10-12pm, Motueka Library. Free services, including copy certification and witnessing signatures are available.

GENERAL GROUPS

MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL office at Community House, will be closed from 20 Dec to 17 Jan. Open Wed 22 Jan. Happy Holidays from Community Arts.

NELSON HOSPICE The Motueka shop needs volunteers! If you would like to volunteer for us, please enquire at the shop or Ph: 035281178.

NELSON RAILWAY SOCIETY Founders Park. Check our Facebook page and Website for updates of our Train and Railcar Timetable for the school holidays. We will be running on extra days.

NEED AFFORDABLE COUNSELLING? Life Linc Nelson has been serving the region for 50 years and has rooms in Nelson, Richmond and Motueka. We provide low cost counselling up to 10 sessions and for anyone ages 12+. Couples counselling also avail. Contact us at www.lifelinc.co.nz or e: clinical@lifelinc.co.nz.

RUM MORRIS DANCERS. Musicians and dancers but mostly friends. Slightly random - mostly Tues evenings, sometimes Wed. Get yourself a second favourite form of aerobic exercise. Ph: Dorris 02040618088.

RADIO CONTROL SAILING Wed and Sun, 1pm onwards, Best Island. Weather permitting. IOMs and Dragon Force etc. New members welcome. Info Ph: Peter 0275443923.

RIWAKA CROQUET CLUB, do you and a group of friends/family/ workmates want to spend a fun few hours learning to play croquet? Min. of 8 players, $10 each, all equipment provided and someone from our club to help you learn the game. Full access to the clubhouse kitchen. For info Ph: 0276308910.

SUSTAINING TENANCIES Having trouble with your Tenancy? Need help working things through with your landlord or tenant? Gateway Housing Trust. Info E: housing@ght.co.nz or Ph: 035457100.

SURVIVORS AND THRIVERS GROUP, if you have or have had can-

cer, or supported someone else, come and connect. Ph: Maureen 5287669.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS. Is alcohol causing problems for your life? Want to stop drinking but can’t? we can help. Support meetings every day. Ph: 0800aaworks, 08002296757.

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP, If you have or have had breast cancer, come along to this friendly atmosphere. 102 Hardy St, Nelson. Reg: 035391137 or E: info@cancernelson.org.nz.

GATEWAY TO YOUR WELLBEING, Wellbeing is important for all of us to thrive. The shed is a safe place to meet new people in a supportive and caring environment. We can connect you with other agencies for the right support needed. More info Ph: 0279214074, E: admin@ght.co.nz or pop in 24a Tudor St, Motueka.

GREYPOWER MOTUEKA welcomes visitors at the Community House office, Decks Reserve on Wallace St. for ongoing service requests. Discount provider list available. Ph: 035289076 or e: greypowermot@gmail.com.

INDOOR BOWLS, Mon & Wed, 1.15-3pm, Motueka Over 50s Hub, 10 Pah St. All abilities welcome. Ph: Jude 0273244226.

MOTUEKA DISTRICT BRASS Do you want to be part of a fun, social and competitive band, who make players welcome? e: motueka.brass@gmail.com or Ph: 021728168

ENCOURAGEMENT GRANTS of up to $500 for groups & Individuals with an art project involving our local community. Contact: motuekaartscouncil@gmail.com

MOTUEKA NEWCOMERS New to Motueka? We’re a social group, mostly retired (50+) who meet regularly and welcome newcomers. More info Ph: Jana 035284355.

MOTUEKA MENZSHED, Tues, Wed or Thurs 9-12pm, MenzShed, Marchwood Park, College Rd. Give the missus some space, come to the menzshed. Just turn up or e: secretarymotmenzShed@ gmail.com.

MOTUEKA RED CROSS. Open Mon – Sat, 10-2pm, Community House. Donations of clothing, books, shoes, linen welcome.

MOTUEKA TRAMPING CLUB, A diversity of weekend day walks and multi-day trips suitable for a range of fitness levels. Visit www.motuekatrampingclub.org to learn more about your local Club, or e: membership.motuekatc@gmail.com for info on joining.

Community notices are free to community groups, schools, churches, gold coin donation events and fundraising only. For classified ads and public notices please call 528 2088. Due to the popularity of this column, while every effort will be made, inclusion cannot be guaranteed for free ads.