Waimea Weekly - 11 January 2023

Locally Owned and Operated

Wednesday 11 January 2023

Waimea Weekly

TV show helps Gillian fight law and win

Gillian Bearman knows how to win an argument.

Firstly, she’s a mother of five – the eldest approaching teenagehood, the youngest aged just three.

Secondly, the 40-year-old Richmond woman read a bit of law during her business studies – but admits to having learned how to cross-examine witnesses from watching television.

“I don’t really watch TV that much. However, I did get hooked on the Netflix series Suits,” she laughs.

She’s applied some of what she learned off the TV to her four years fighting claims against her, for work on a trampoline park venture that went belly-up in 2019.

Bearman’s story started in 2018 when her firm Urban Wolfire bought into Australian indoor trampoline arena franchise Flip Out to set up an arena in Wellington.

The idea was driven by a wish to blend her interest in business with things her children enjoyed.

Bearman was living in Westport at the time with her partner Blair Colligan, an entrepreneur in bottled water and minerals. The pair share the raising of Bearman’s three children from a previous relationship and the two younger children they have together.

However, the trampoline park venture didn’t turn out as planned.

“I was pretty much fighting the whole year I was open.”

Bearman said there was friction with franchise owner Steven

Stone; he said she was difficult to deal with. Then came budget over-runs and the last straw when a problem arose over the steel used in the construction of the trampolines - Bearman said it wasn’t up to scratch and Worksafe said it didn’t meet Health and Safety regulations.

In August 2019 Bearman’s company went into voluntary liquidation and the legal wrangles gathered steam, which in the end boiled down to a single unpaid bill from the electrician for just

under $14,000.

As a result, the sparkie, Lower Hutt-based Mike’s Electrical Services Limited (MEL), took her to court – twice. In between, she batted off bankruptcy.

At the heart of the dispute was the billing arrangement the builder and electrician had with Bearman’s company. The electrician was sending his invoices to the builder, who then included the amount in the invoice sent to

Heading

Licensing snafu sees underaged fans miss out

Reggae pioneers UB40’s hit song Red Red Wine left a bittersweet taste for some would-be concert goers after last minute liquor licensing confusion left many unable to attend.

A post on social media by organisers Neptune Entertainment hours before gates were scheduled to open for A Summer’s Day Live last week at Rutherford Park said an oversight in their liquor licence application had forced them to make the event R18 at the last minute.

“We would like to offer our sincerest apologies for any inconvenience this may have caused anyone.”

While a full refund includ-

ing booking fees would be given to those with child tickets, comments on social media flowed with confusion as people with tickets who had not seen the post were turned away at the gates.

“I have a very disappointed 17-year-old. The tickets were for his birthday. He loves UB40. We cannot go without him, that would be most unfair,” one commenter wrote.

It was the first New Zealand show for UB40 after their earlier show in Mount Maunganui was cancelled due to bad weather.

They were joined by the legendary Jefferson Starship and Australasian heroes Dragon.

Stephanie Stuart

Brian Broad

Doing nothing until after the new year.

Romain Chapat

Moving to Nelson from Wellington.

Elizabeth Bean

Those that were able to attend the show were in high spirits throughout the night. Photos: Evan Barnes.

Soucheby’s sells iconic building

After more than two decades at 75 Gladstone Rd, the owners of Soucheby’s Antiques have sold their iconic building and are moving to a new location.

Constructed in 2001 by owner Bob Souch, the castle-themed building was snapped up just a few days after it went on the market. But Bob says it’s still business as usual on Gladstone Rd for another few months.

He says their last day at the site will be 28 April and they are currently on the hunt for a new premises in Richmond where they will focus on a select number of specialist items.

“It’s going to be a completely different operation. We’ll keep

the same name but specialise in seven or eight specialist items as well as valuing. I’ve been doing more and more valuing for estates, insurances, etc.”

Soucheby’s history in Richmond dates back to 1992.

“We started in the main street 31 years ago before building on Gladstone Rd,” says Bob.

He has seen the market change dramatically over the years.

“The internet never used to be a factor - everything was done over the phone.”

Bob says, during the thick of the Covid-19 lockdowns they experienced their busiest time in 30 years.

“Money was all being spent in New Zealand. But even now we’re ticking along nicely, there

are no complaints.”

Bob doesn’t know what the new owners have planned for the building yet, but it’s not the first time people have shown interest in it.

“We’ve been approached a number of times to sell it.

You’ve got the traffic flow and visibility factor, as well as its unique style,” he says. “Just in the last week, we’ve had people from Alaska, Canada, and Cambodia come in and comment on the building.”

Bob says, although they will be sad to say goodbye to Gladstone Rd, he is looking forward to the next chapter of Soucheby’s and hopes they can announce their new location soon.

KATE RUSSELL

Rupert and Bob Souch have sold 75 Gladstone Rd and are moving their well-known antique store to a new premises. Photo: Kate Russell.

Brightwater conservationist remembered as ‘truly inspiring woman’

Brightwater conservationist, Janice Gibbs, who was behind the campaign to purchase the land at Snowden’s Bush and gift it to DoC, died suddenly last week following a heart attack. Janice forever changed the future of Brightwater when her tireless fundraising efforts across three years paid off when the public raised the $350k required to buy the land in March 2021.

Thanks to her initiative, dedication and positivity, the land will continue to be enjoyed by local families, school children and for public events.

Living opposite Snowden’s Bush, Janice and her husband Lyne spent a decade voluntarily weeding, planting and maintaining trapping lines. Together they set up the Friends of Snowden’s Bush group for extra support, which she recently handed over to Alison Pickford and an all-new team.

When Janice first heard the church was looking to sell the land at the front of Snowden’s Bush to property developers in

October 2018, she kickstarted a fundraising campaign to prevent that from happening.

Four years later, in June 2022, she officially handed the land over to DoC.

At the time, Janice said, “I couldn’t have done it by myself and I’m so grateful to each and every donation, whether that be money or time, given by the community. We can all breathe a sigh of relief knowing our efforts have made a real difference.”

Tasman mayor Tim King says her absence will be felt by many.

“Janice was a huge asset to the Brightwater community and remained extremely humble despite doing so much over the years. She is a true example of how just one person can spark big changes if they have the passion and drive. She will be remembered as a truly inspiring woman.”

Just six weeks ago, Janice was invited to a surprise plaque unveiling at Snowden’s Bush where her efforts were honoured by Te Uru Rakau New Zealand Forest Service - a

national project to establish strands of trees across the country to honour New Zealand’s heroes. The plaque reads, ‘These trees were planted in 2021 and 2022 to honour Mr L and Mrs J Gibbs who have worked to protect and restore the forest.’ The significance of Snowden’s Bush is that it is the largest remnant of thousands of hectares of podocarp forest that once covered the Waimea Plains. It’s home to ancient totara and matai

trees and many native birds. The Snowden family privately protected the forest from logging in the nineteenth century and made it available for community events and picnics. It was purchased by the Waimea County Council after a public subscription campaign in 1920 and it became the Snowden’s Bush Reserve in March 1921.

Janice passed away on 2 January at Nelson hospital, aged 77. If you’d like to continue Janice’s legacy email friendsofsnowdensbush@gmail.com

Pump station blocks again

Tasman District Council is reminding residents that toilets are only for the three P’s - poo, pee, and paper. Council contractors have been clearing blockages at the Riwaka pump station almost every day. These blockages can take several hours to clear and can be costly. The pumps must be craned out, pulled apart, cleared, reassembled, and reinstalled. Wet wipes, nappies, and everything else must go in the bin.

New Year’s fires

New Year’s Eve kept firefighters busy across the country with fires started by fireworks, bonfires and campfires, including a large fire in Mārahau. Nine crews were working on the fire at 2.30am on New Year’s Day, which eventually covered around two hectares, with two homes evacuated. A Fire and Emergency spokesperson said the vegetation fire was in difficult terrain.

Art in the Park

Fifty years of Art in the Park is being celebrated this weekend at Queens Gardens. More than 40 artists from Art Group Nelson will be selling their original artwork at the free event on Saturday 14 January. Art Group Nelson was formed in 1970 and now has more than 120 members. It will be Tasman artist Desiree Henry’s first time exhibiting at Queens Gardens after joining the group last year.

Harness racing

The two-day racing event will take place at the Richmond A&P Showgrounds on Friday 13 January, with a second day of racing on Sunday 15 January.

Founder of the Snowden’s Bush Trust, Janice Gibbs, died unexpectedly last week aged 77. Photo: Jo Kent.

Missing water dragon makes her way home

After two long months the second of two missing water dragons has made her way home to Natureland.

Marge remained on the loose after her and fellow water dragon Scauldron’s enclosure at Natureland Wildlife Park was broken into in October last year.

Scauldron was found by a Tāhunanui resident sitting on a garden fence in November.

Now Marge has also been found, right behind the enclosure she was taken from.

On Tuesday, 27 December, one of the keepers walked behind the enclosure that had been broken into and saw a water dragon.

“He was like ‘um, there’s

Marge, what’s she doing there’,” animal care team leader Jos Kater says. “It was quite a warm sunny day and he just saw a water dragon run away.” She was captured and placed in a separate enclosure to be inspected by a vet.

“We were in happy shock, first we were like ‘no, that’s not real’, we were checking none of the other dragons had got out,” Jos says.

He speculates that since she was taken, Marge had been hiding out in the dense hedging surrounding the park.

“I think she just stayed there. Because it was still quite cold when she left, she just hid. Our hedge is quite thick and has quite a lot of sticks and things to hide in and would have loads of insects to feed on.”

Marge did suffer an injury to her tail during her two month hiatus, which is currently being treated by a vet.

“She’s very lively, very active and eating well,” Jos says.

SARA HOLLYMAN

Marge has been missing from Natureland since October, but is now safely home again. Photo: Supplied.

Brightwater playground on Ellis Street has recently had a little upgrade with a new ‘climby shifter’ installed late last year. The piece of equipment was due to be put in back in June 2021 but delays with the shipment held it up until this summer. Lincoln Hall from Brightwater (pictured at back), and his friends Page Stuart, Oceane Gilchrist and Cooper Kent were some of the first to try it out. “The best bit is the hole you can climb through on the bottom,” he says. Photo: Jo Kent.

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TV show helps

FROM PAGE 1

Bearman’s firm.

The builder left the project after Bearman became dissatisfied with the work being done, but the electrician carried on.

After some to-and-fro communication about invoicing, the electrician sent a final invoice to Bearman personally in July 2019, for what turned out to be work done the year before.

Having already paid tens of thousands of dollars for the renovation, and by then on the brink of liquidation and facing significant financial losses personally, she refused to pay the final $13,800partly because it wasn’t clear what it was for and mistakes with invoicing had been made in the past.

MEL took legal measures to get the money but was unsuccessfultwice.

The first time a judge dismissed the case after ruling there were conflicts as to what was agreed upon between the three partieswhich raised “serious doubts” for the court - and who the electrical company had a contract with.

“The final invoice was unable to be disputed in court, there was no argument about who the contracting party was,” Bearman said.

MEL tried to recoup the money

again this year with a claim in the Nelson District Court.

By then Bearman was short of money and left with no choice but to defend herself. The result was the same as the first case.

Despite claims by the electrician’s lawyer that the dispute was about the money and that Bearman was being sued, the judge found MEL’s contract was with the building firm throughout and not Bearman herself, and dismissed the case.

“It’s not the amount in dispute but who Mike’s Electrical had a contract with,” Judge Chris Tuohy told the court.

That meant Bearman was not responsible for the final bill or the associated court costs, which were getting close to three times the amount of the $13,813 claimed by MEL.

While the verdict was simple, the fight to get it wasn’t. Bearman said giving up the battle was never really an option as the consequences of doing that - including the possibility of a hefty costs bill - outweighed the stress and energy it took to combat it.

Bearman did, however, offer a settlement deal, mostly because she couldn’t afford a lawyer to help her fight the claim, but MEL’s lawyer came back with a figure of around $40,000.

RAW MEALS

Richmond mum fight law and win

“It was at that point I realised I had no choice but to follow through with the process as a self-litigant.”

She spent hours preparing, reading submissions and affidavit evidence, and researching other cases to get an understanding of what to do. “I just stuck to what I knew – I just followed the money.

“The accountant side of me came out; I knew the trail was odd, so I focused on that.”

On the day of the hearing, she and Colligan arrived at court, armed with a library of material, ready to face off against the plaintiff, lawyers and witnesses crammed into a small room in Wellington and beamed live into the Nelson courthouse by video link.

“The morning of the trial I was nervous, I was entering an unfamiliar situation.

“I was questioning my confidence, thinking to myself: ‘What have I got myself into? Have I bitten off more than I can chew? How will the judge respond to me as a self-litigant?’

“Would I be respected for having the confidence to represent myself, or would I be perceived as disrespecting the legal profession for believing I can do what takes many years to achieve?”

Bearman said it was important

she was clear from the start about the best angle from which to approach her defence.

“I had no doubt that hard evidence, written in black and white, is very hard to deny or successfully argue as being incorrect.

“I kept reminding myself of this throughout the process.”

Bearman is no stranger to the courtroom, having experienced the ups and downs of the Family Court and the employment disputes process; the latter the result of a prickly matter over her dismissal from a job. Neither is Colligan unfamiliar with the justice system - he is up-

front about time served in prison on drugs charges.

Bearman credited him with helping her through the times she was stricken with doubt.

But in a roundabout way, fighting her own case helped fulfil part of an early ambition to become a lawyer. “To be honest when I was young and contemplating career paths, being a lawyer was top of my list, but upon further research of what the course demanded, the study material list was extensive.

“Back then I was not keen on reading that much, so chose a business management with an accounting degree.”

At the hearing in Nelson in October, Judge Tuohy worked to untangle the knotty contractual dispute. As Bearman began her cross-examination he had to remind her to stick to the point and to keep her questions short and direct, but also acknowledged she was not a lawyer.

Bearman said afterwards she viewed it as constructive criticism. “I took his advice by only asking the questions without getting caught up in the point I was trying to get the witness to clarify or admit.

“The judge was patient with me, and also assisted with rephrasing some questions I asked to make sure they were in line with proper litigation process and practices.”

Bearman was mildly confident of a successful outcome.

“I had a good feeling about it, but you just don’t know. Sometimes justice and the law don’t cross.”

Not everyone was happy with the outcome though.

A spokesperson for Mike’s Electrical Limited said he believed it was unjust but there was nothing more he could do.

“It’s been absolute chaos, to be perfectly honest.

“I’m gutted that we’ve done all that work – we did everything that was required of us – and then

to not get paid… it’s just unfair.”

He said not only was the business out-of-pocket for the amount owed, but it also had to pay legal fees and costs associated with the hearing. He reiterated there was no dispute over the quality of the work done, and the trampoline park turned out to be among the best he’d seen.

Buoyed by the win, Bearman is now thinking of taking up the next fight herself against what she alleges was unlawful cancellation of the lease on the premises for the trampoline park in Wellington and unlawful termination of the franchise agreement.

Her advice to others who might find themselves in a similar situation of having no choice but to fight for themselves, is to just tell the truth.

“I have learned that you know your case better than anyone, when for a lot of lawyers, it’s just another case, and at the end of the day they still get paid, win or lose. Don’t be intimidated, do your research and stick to the facts of your truth.”

Gillian Bearman with her partner Blair Colligan after winning her court case while representing herself. Photo: Tracy Neal.

Open Justice — Te Pātiti, a Public Interest Journalism initiat ve funded through NZ on Air

O PE N

NOWOUT

Sandra makes jam to help orphans in Bali

JENNY NICHOLSON

When the Wells family holiday in Bali, their trip looks a bit different from the usual tourist’s itinerary.

After a week of luxury in their timeshare, they move accommodation and spend a week helping those in need.

“We have been going there for about 25 years, and it’s hard to just keep taking and taking and not giving anything back when there is such need,” Sandra Wells says.

After hearing Nelson’s Jerry Preston was living in Bali helping those in need, Sandra and Jaimee pondered how they could help. With Sandra’s background in catering, they decided to make and sell jam, with the money being given to orphanages in Bali.

“I had a friend who grows berries, and said I could have some,” Sandra says. “People give me plums too.”

For the last few years, they have made and sold about 500 jars of jam each year, and have run other fundraising ventures.

The money isn’t just handed over to those running children’s homes.

Instead, Sandra and Jaimee take those running the orphanages shopping for what they need.

Each year they travel to a village where there is a large children’s home.

Along with supplies they buy in Bali, they gift new clothing they

buy here for $1 or $2 at K-Mart.

“The children who were babies when we went last time are toddlers now,” Jaimee says.

Along with a large children’s home they visit and support, on their last trip they visited an urban children’s home where a woman was caring for 13 children in a small house with the youngest child jut nine months old.

Both women were struck by the fact that it was the children’s home. It wasn’t an orphanage, they were a family.

Washing was done by hand because their machine was broken, so Sandra and Jaimee bought them a new machine.

“We had allocated $500 for her place and for that we got the washing machine, a big rice cooker, and there was money left over for clothing,” Sandra says.

Jaimee says the children tug on her heart.

Even though they don’t speak the same language, it doesn’t matter because they still understand play and fun.

“They are so cute and so happy with next to nothing.”

A highlight for her was a five-yearold’s reaction to a pair of scissors they bought.

“The child was super excited because they only had an old pair of scissors that didn’t work so they hadn’t had a pair for a while,” Jaimee says.

Sandra and Jaimee Wells with some of the jam Sandra has made to raise money to help orphans and others in need in Bali. Photo: Jenny Nicholson.

Selling memories

JO KENT

When Lois Boyd, Brodie Hemmings and Katrina Richards met on the V for Vintage Facebook group, they quickly came up with the idea to launch a local vintage market as there was nothing else like it in the region.

“I moved up from Christchurch where there were lots of retro markets to browse and buy from, so I was disappointed there weren’t any in this region,” Brodie says. So, together with Lois and Katrina, the trio set to work organising their first market back in 2019.

“The first one we did was in Stoke Hall, but when that building closed down we moved to Hope Hall which was even bigger than before,” Lois says.

“We had over 1000 shoppers through the door and one of our sellers travels up from Dunedin especially to sell at our market, it’s a pretty big deal,” Katrina says.

Part of the market’s charm is the ‘reminiscent’ factor where vintage items evoke memories of different times.

“One lady came in with her grandkids who were surprised to discov-

er Air New Zealand used to serve meals on real china plates back in the 1980s, as one of our stall holders was selling some. It then sparked a conversation of how you used to be able to smoke on planes too and it blew the children’s mind,” Lois says.

As well as those who come to take a stroll down memory lane, there’s a new generation of shoppers who are keen to ransack the vintage clothes rails, too.

“There’s a mum who always brings her teenage kids because they want to have a look at clothes from the 90s as it’s all retro now and the fashion from back then has come in again!”

Brodie mostly collects and sells vintage clothes and says you never know what you might find.

“It’s crazy to think that anything pre-1990s is now considered vintage as it doesn’t really seem that long ago, but that’s what will be on offer on the day.”

Lois says rummaging through the stalls can uncover hidden treasures. If you fancy a browse, pop along to the Summer Celebration Retro and Vintage Market 2023 on Saturday 14 January, 9am-3pm.

Brodie, Lois and Katrina are the faces behind the Summer Celebration Retro and Vintage Market this Saturday at Hope Hall. Photo: Jo Kent.

Chris Phillips, Brooklyn Reid and AJ Phillips Helen Belton and Jason Yaxley Joe Andrew and Cameron Thompson Murray Silke and Patrick Fenemore Nyhra McKinley and Ankie Solberg Bruce and Ben Riddell Danielle (4) and Felix (6) MacGibbon Rylee Vickerman (10), Jeremy Ellis and Piper Vickerman (6) Midori and Tsuyoshi Watanabe Rod Payne and Lana Crengle

Homes are selling fast at Summerset Richmond Ranges. We have a stunning range of two and three-bedroom villas available to move into now.

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There are no worries about maintenance or upkeep as we do it all for you, and pets are also welcome. You can even go away on holiday knowing your home will be safe and secure.

Plus, with a $20k cashback and six months to sell your current home, it has never been easier to make the move*. Come along to our first Open Day of the year, or call Jessica Bagge on 03 744 3432 for a private appointment. It’s the perfect time to start your new adventure!

Tahuna Summer Sounds

Friday 13 January, 4pm-8pm

Tahunanui Beach Reserve

Live music returns to the beach with local musicians performing across two stages, plus food trucks. Free, family-friendly festival.

Summer Retro and Vintage Market

Saturday 14 January, 9am

Hope Recreation Hall

Rummage among all things pre-1990 and discover some hidden treasures to take you back.

Outdoor movie

Sunday 15 January, 9pm-11pm

Washbourn Gardens, Richmond

Enjoy watching Miracle on 34th Street alfresco-style. Free.

Christmas message of no value

I listened to the King’s Christmas message. He said absolutely nothing of any value. All we had were some clichés. The question that comes up is: Do we really need such a head of state here in NZ? He did not even mention the big things that we are all confronted with like global warming or the war in the Ukraine. The firm is falling apart at the seams with members leaving the sinking ship and members being disinherited for alleged sexual abuse, for which were paid millions to let the problem disappear under the carpet. Again, do we need a foreign head of state that is appointed only on the issue of birth, and not of quality???? I am sure NZ can do better than that with the quality New Zealanders we have, who could fulfil the role of president of New Zealand with dignity and intelligence. What are we waiting for???

Gerald Moonen

New Year Resolutions

Here’s a New Year resolution anyone can keep: Resolve not to make any more New Year resolutions. Now, wasn’t that easy? If you’re trying to pay down your credit cards, quit smoking, get a new job, find a mate, or shed some excess poundage, abandoning New Year resolutions won’t get you off the hook. But by setting more realistic goals for yourself and not limiting yourself to a once-a-year, do-or-die, all-out assault on that Everest of debt, those flabby thighs, or the hideous wallpaper you keep meaning to replace, you may find that the finish line isn’t so far away after all. Impact of Covid has changed most of usual routine which reminds us to follow & stay safe, we are still here to fight. Or, as the Rolling Stones put it, “you can’t always get what you want, but if you try some time, you just might find you

Have your say: sara@topsouthmedia.co.nz facebook.com/waimeaweekly

get what you need.” Change your mindset.

Neelz Singh

Kainui Bike Park gets even bigger

Hopefully providing trails for horses too

Dee Needham

That’s great. Wakefield will be a major MTB hub - The Wairoa Gorge is already leading the way in the Tasman district and more parks will just make the whole area a better mtb destination.

Greg McIntyre

Awesome, thanks One Forty One!

Rachel N Andy Black

Hopefully they do some higher grade tracks.

Jake Woodford

If only they were as nice to hunters.

Kyall Thompson

Hoppy life acknowledged in exhibition

I remember Joan working hard for us during the hop harvest, with a ready smile and a deft hand on the grader. Great to see your lovely face again, Joan.

Tania Jones

Good on you Joan, I’ll have a read of your story.

Angela Craig

SH6 opens for Christmas

Thank you for that great effort. I noticed that there are new signs welcoming people into Nelson, maybe they were put up in anticipation of the road being reopened.

Marshall Garrett

Many thanks for all your efforts. You’ve worked so hard to make this happen.

Raewyn Corbett

That’s awesome! Congratulations!

Lou Smith

Medical Officer of Health Dr Rachel Eyre

on safe summer travel

As a Medical Officer of Health I am passionate about community health and wellbeing, and for me this summer, that means staying safe while heading away, receiving visitors, or attending large events.

In all of those situations, maintaining those healthy habits we’ve developed will go a long way to prevent infection in the first place: keeping up good hygiene; coughing and sneezing into elbows; avoiding or limiting time in crowded spaces. Masks are best worn in indoor situations where there are strangers, or in crowded and poorly ventilated spaces. Summer hopefully means we can spend most of our time outdoors!

Even if an event is outdoors please don’t take part if you are sick, have symptoms of COVID-19 or test positive for COVID-19. I know it’s not an easy ask if you’ve paid for and booked into an event you’ve looked forward to. However, large events have the potential for being super spreader situations. Even if you were to come off lightly, someone else may be highly vulnerable and develop serious complications.

When you develop your holiday list, include hand sanitiser, masks, enough of your usual medication to see you through, and RAT tests. Ideally, bring 5 RATs per person, that way if you or someone you are travelling with becomes unwell you can test immediately.

The isolation period is seven days, so have a plan for where to isolate if you get sick while away from home. Returning home is possible if you have a private vehicle, can get home with no overnight stays, and without a flight, ferry, or other public transportation. Otherwise, you must isolate somewhere without shared facilities. Talk to your accommodation provider ahead of time. If you are travelling to stay with friends or family, discuss if there is a part of their home you can stay in without putting them at risk.

We’ve all worked hard and want to unwind, and let’s do so knowing that we are keeping ourselves and everyone else around us safe.

If you are a visitor, we hope you have a great time while you are here and take away wonderful memories of our little piece of paradise.

Pharmacies and urgent care centres (Marlborough Urgent Care, Golden Bay Urgent Care and the Medical and Injury Centre in Nelson) remain open. To find opening hours and locations visit www.HealthPoint.co.nz

As COVID-19 case numbers climb again and are anticipated to peak over the festive period, it is important to be prepared and know how to keep safe while on holiday or when reconnecting with family and friends.

Nathan honoured for service to adventure

JUDENE EDGAR

Alongside his seven adventure racing world championships and a host of other awards, including winner of Eco Challenge - the world’s toughest race - a NZ title for cross-country mountainbike racing and two podium placings in the Speights Coast-to-Coast, Nathan Fa’avae says that being awarded a New Year Honour “is quite special”.

Nathan was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) for services to adventure racing, outdoor education and the Pacific community.

“You don’t set out to achieve something like this, but it’s quite nice to be acknowledged for the things I’ve done. I feel very honoured,” he says.

While he acknowledged that there are “tons of people that do great work in the community that go unnoticed”, he says that he was delighted that it recognised his efforts beyond sport, helping the community.

Nathan has represented New Zealand in adventure racing since 2001.

He captains the New Zealand Adventure Racing Team and has led

them to win seven world championships, including the most recent in 2022, hosted in Paraguay.

He pioneered women’s adventure racing, establishing the Spring Challenge Women’s Adventure Race in 2007 to encourage participation of women in adventure sport.

“We established women’s adventure racing purely to provide opportunities for women to be

more active in the outdoors. We decided to just give it a go, and it’s turned out to be very successful.”

In the last 16 years, more than 25,000 women have participated in the Spring Challenge which is hosted at different locations throughout New Zealand each year, allowing female athletes to explore New Zealand’s environments and to support local businesses.

Nathan is also Patron of WhenuaIti Outdoors in Tasman, encouraging youth into outdoor activities.

“I first went there as a teenager in 1990 as a student and that was a very transformational period in my life.”

Those early experiences led to a career working in outdoor education and adventure tourism, including a stint working for

Whenua-Iti. Around 10 years ago he was invited to be its patron, which he says gives him opportunities to advocate for them, raise awareness, and support their fundraising.

And despite creating quite a legacy of his own, one of his latest challenges is continuing the legacy that his parents, Filemoni (Phil) and Jan Fa’avae built, supporting Pasifika youth in Nelson through the Fa’avae Foundation.

In 2021, Nathan and his siblings Braden and Zariana partnered with the Top of the South Community Foundation to create a fund to support Pasifika youth to access outdoor education programmes.

“Our vision is to remove financial and other barriers for whatever their goals are,” he says. “Outdoor education opened my eyes to what else was out there, so we’re hoping to provide life-changing experiences and inspire others.”

Nathan also acknowledged his wife Jodie, who he says has been on a shared pathway with him since high school.

“In many ways the award is as much hers as mine,” he says.

For a full honours list visit the Nelson App.

Dare to Learn - 2023

Exciting new courses/workshops have been added to the selection at Waimea College Adult & Community Education. In the Practical Self-Defence course with Tutor Anna Bulley, you will become more aware of your surroundings and potential dangers; to know how to avoid and de-escalate these, and if necessary, respond and recover. You will learn to defend common attacks. No level of fitness required, just a willingness to participate and learn. The one day Exploring Mark Making Workshop is designed to get creative juices flowing! Rather than an art class, the focus is on the process of expression and letting go of how art looks. Mark-making entails leaning into scribbling, making lines, smudges and patterns while bringing a gestural energy into the process. Art materials provided by Tutor Lynda Jessen-Tye, with the key explorations being with acrylic paint.

Is there an author hidden within you? The Life Writing – Creative Non-fiction course is a creative writing class. Tutor Kindra Douglas will encourage you to write with sincerity and heart, drawing upon your own experiences as the basis for the creative non-fiction.

Learn and develop confidence to handle, and care for domestic animals. The Introduction to Animal Care course with Tutor Erika Kruidenier is a great starter for those passionate about animal care, those looking at becoming a new pet owner, or people wishing to do further study. Many more options can be chosen from the diverse range, but popular courses do fill quickly so book early.

For more information and to book online www.waimea.school.nz/ community-education or email ace@waimea.school.nz or phone Jo Johnston 544-6099 (870).

Practical Self-Defence tutor Anna Bulley

Nathan Fa’avae with local school kids at the GODZone finish line. Photo: Supplied.

Pushed over the line and onto the podium

After his clutch blew up in the middle of the final race of the New Zealand Street Stock Championships in Blenheim, it looked like it all might be over for Nelson-based Steve Soper and his 97N car.

It was still running, but he couldn’t get power through the engine and was watching the chance at a podium slip from his grasp - when he got shunted in the back. Behind him was Nelson clubmate Cody McCarrison, who

pushed Steve and his car around the track for the final five laps to earn third place and a number change to 3NZ.

“Going into a final like that, you’re not going to win by yourself,” says Steve. “Me and Cody have been racing for years. We’ve always had each other’s back.”

Steve’s brother Perry also qualified for the final and was instrumental in helping him step onto the podium.

Perry’s aggressive driving took

out several of the other top contenders before he also found himself on the infield grass, having broken down.

“All it takes is one person not wanting you to win the race. . . but all of the Nelson boys were sticking together,” says Steve “It’s not one or two guys that have done it, it’s all the Nelson guys who were over there.

“If it wasn’t for some of those guys in that repechage, Cody wouldn’t have even made the final.”

Steve had been sitting in fifth place coming into the final race, but with a field of bashed and broken cars it was still anyone’s game.

After Saturday’s racing was cancelled due to poor weather the final was rescheduled for Sunday, with Steve saying he had to take Monday off to recover and start work on rebuilding his car. He says his goals coming into the event were to qualify for the

final, with everything after that being a bonus.

“It’s one of those sports where you can’t expect too much.

“I’m pretty bloody stoked.” Now his car boasts the 3NZ number, he says he wants to do it as proud as all of the previous holders have done.

“I want to get around the country and race with different guys at different tracks.”

Liv Taylor, Steve Soper, Neville Soper, Jenny Soper, Perry Soper and Holly Mortimer didn’t take long to change Steve’s racing number to 3NZ after he finished third at the New Zealand Street Stock Championships on Sunday. Photo: Supplied.

BIRTHDAY

ALLIANCE – SEASONAL TEAM MEMBERS

Boners, Halal Slaughterers, and Labourers.

Ngā painga - what’s in it for you?

• Butchers: potential to earn an average of $1,365 based on a 40-hour working week, exclusive of overtime

• Boners: potential to earn an average of $1,374 based on a 40-hour working week, exclusive of overtime

• Halal Slaughterers: potential to earn an average of $1,353 based on a 40- hour working week, exclusive of overtime

• Labourers: earn a minimum of $26.50 per hour across a day, inclusive of allowances

• Minimum of 30 hours a week, usually 45 hours a week

• Up to 7 months of full-time seasonal employment

• Upskill yourself with an opportunity to gain NZQA qualifications

• Receive ongoing training and support

• Access to free onsite health services including a nurse, physiotherapist, counsellor

• Access to our free employee assistance programme

Ō pūkenga - about you

• You are eligible to work in New Zealand

• You will pass a pre-employment drug test and medical assessment

• You are willing and able to follow and respect workplace health and safety

• You enjoy working within a

WEDDING

MONDAYS

COFFEE & CROSS Want to talk to someone about God, church, Jesus? No catch - join me for coffee at YAZA, 11-12 Tues. I’ll listen. Rev. Gordon, wearing a Cross & Collar.

ELYSIUM WIDOW AND WIDOWERS GROUP meet each Monday for coffee and friendship at Oxford St Cafe at 10am. New members welcome. Phone Margaret 027 2600 748

LIGHTHOUSE SPIRITUAL AWARENESS. Monday January 23rd. Healing, clairvoyance etc. 7.30pm, Trafalgar St Hall. Ph Carolyn 5474613.

TUESDAYS

NZ CHRISTIAN WRITERS NELSON GROUP. Tuesday 17 January in Richmond Baptist Church Lounge. 1-4pm. Open to writers at all stages from wanna-be writers to published authors of all ages and what-

ever genre you use. For details please contact Kay 0275476777 or kaypeterson4@xtra.co.nz.

NELSON 50+ WALKING GROUP Tuesday January 17. Stephens Bay Saunter. Meet at 10am at Little Kaiteriteri. Do bring your own lunch. Phone Nicky 021 1494809.

WEDNESDAYS

TASMAN TRACKIES CYCLING SAXTON VELODROME - Champion Rd, Richmond. Track racing Wednesdays 10am -11.30am through Summer. Track bikes free of charge, road or mountain bikes can be used. Riders at all levels & ages, Social coffee & chat after at local café – ZINK, Contact: Murray Cameron 0276450033. murray.r.cameron@xtra.co.nz

PLAY PÉTANQUE at Nelson pétanque club. Wed and Sun. 1.15pm -3 .00pm. A game for all ages. Come along andtryusout.Ph:RogerorShirley5466562.

THURSDAYS

TAICHI IN RICHMOND: Thursdays 10am-11am during January. Stillness, breath, movement. Quiet Heart Tai Chi outdoors in Washbourn Gardens - qigong and tai chi. Contact Merrick, email quiet.heart. tai.chi@gmail.com Ph 021 063 6620. All welcome

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP - meet 1st Thurs of month Broadgreen House 276 Nayland Rd, 1.30-3.30pm contact Bill Ph: 544 8635 or 539 1137.

FRIDAYS

ELYSIUM WIDOW AND WIDOWERS GROUP meeting for lunch at Armadillo’s Restaurant and Bar, Queen St, Richmond at 12 midday Friday 13th

January. Phone Margaret 027 2600 748

SATURDAYS

SUMMER CELEBRATION RETRO AND VINTAGE MARKET Saturday 14th January, 9am to 3pm, Hope Recreation Hall, main road Hope. Stalls, cafe, great indoor location, easy parking. Contact: Lois phone 0274380807.

WAIMEA HARRIERS MILNES BEATSON WAKEFIELD ROASTER 10KM & 5KM FUN RUN AND WALK Saturday 21st January. Everyone and all abilities welcome. See website for details. Queries 022 372 9432.

NELSON CATHEDRAL CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 26 November 2022 - 15 January 2023 Open daily 8.30 - 7pm Late night Fridays 30 December

RICHMOND WELCOME GROUP: Do you want to make new friends join us for a coffee and a chat.10am on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at Paragon Cafe Langdale Drive Richmond . Ansley/Phillip 5410 350 or 0272212943

RICHMOND TENNIS CLUB - Gladstone Road Social hit for members and non-members Saturday afternoons All levels of ability welcome. 1.30pm onwards. Contact 0274872480

SUNDAYS

HIGGINS HERITAGE PARK 222 Pigeon Valley Rd, Wakefield - Sunday 15 January, museum sheds and park activities open day 10am-3pm.- model trains, & jigger rides - a great place for a picnic www.higginsheritagepark.co.nz

WANTED TO

WANTED TO

Vintage / quality tools. Military & Firearms items. General antiques. Also buying estate & shed items. Collection & downsizing. Ph Tim Gladstone. T&B Vintage 0800 653 935 or 548 5235.