Nelson Weekly - 12 April 2023

Less spent on food as costs bite

ANNE HARDIE

More Nelsonians are trying to access Kiwisaver to get themselves out of debt as the cost of living continues to rise, while many families are spending less on food so they can pay their bills.

Nelson Budgeting Services’ coordinator

Tessa Bell says food is the one cost each week that people can reduce and some single adults seeking the service’s help are spending as little as $38 a week on food, while couples are usually less than $100 a week.

Though the minimum wage has just increased to $22.70 per hour, the independently-calculated living wage which is paid on a voluntary basis by employers is moving up to $26 per hour. The living wage is voluntary for employers who want to make sure their workers get enough money to thrive and not just survive. However, Tessa says the costs just keep going up to counter any higher wages and the service is now getting people seeking budgeting advice pre-emptively because they see looming financial problems. One of those problems is refixing interest rates on mortgages which she says can double their mortgage payments each week or more.

SEE PAGE 2

Chess ‘boot camp’ comes to Victory

KATE RUSSELL

Rami Riachi is on a mission to inspire the next generation of chess players.

The chess coach is running a chess ‘boot camp’ at the Vic-

tory Community Centre next term and wants both beginners and experienced players to come along.

The Argentinian says he fell in love with the game when he was 12 years old.

“The council in my hometown developed different activities for kids, including chess. I really liked it and went on to have three different chess coaches.”

A few years later, Rami delved into playing professionally,

both in Argentina and then here in New Zealand. “I used to play a lot of tournaments. It was really stressful as you are under a lot of pressure.

SEE PAGE 5

Rami Riachi is running a chess ‘boot camp’ at the Victory Community Centre next term. Photo: Kate Russell.

What’s your top tip for cutting down your food bill?

BelindaClark REGISTERED LEGAL EXECUTIVE (DipLExSt)

Less for food as costs bite

“We’re seeing more and more people trying to access Kiwisaver to get themselves out of debt and trying to work out how to pay for everything. For a lot of families, food falls off the bottom. There are grown adults on $38 a week, which is not enough – there’s a lot doing that.

“We have people wanting to spend $250 a week on food, but when you’ve done their budget, there’s no way they can.”

The Reserve Bank raised the official cash rate to 5.25 per cent last week and she expects there will be another rise to come which

puts more pressure on those already struggling financially. Families are also trying to find ways to eat healthily for less which is why Luke Kirk reached out on Facebook for ideas. He was swamped with feedback from people with a wide range of budgets and it led to further posts on buying healthy food within a tight budget and where to shop.

Luke and his partner Corren Anderson-Melville spend about $200 a week on food for their family that includes a two-yearold, four-month-old baby, two dogs and two cats, but they need to spend less. Luke is a self-employed handyman and says they

live from week to week financially, which means an unexpected bill affects their food budget.

“We’re looking at reducing costs as much as we can,” Corren says.

“But there’s only so much you can reduce, so food is the one thing we can reduce.”

Luke says he grew up on a low-quality diet and he is determined his family will have good, nutritious food even when the budget is tight, which is why he sought ideas. They already shop around and use a chest freezer to stock items including milk so they have basics for those weeks when an unexpected bill reduces their spending.

“To live right you have to eat right and the cheapest food is often not good food. I’d love to be able to buy more so we have everything our bodies need, but it’s so expensive.”

Tessa says multiple issues have compounded the financial challenges in the region. Last year’s flood event increased the need for alternative accommodation for many people, and then there are the increased costs across the board. She personally has a life insurance policy that has just had a premium hike of 38 per cent and she says other insurances are all on the rise. She is a huge supporter of the liv-

ing wage because she says it gives people “a little bit of dignity”, even if the money does go straight out the door on essentials.

“The living wage isn’t an extravagant amount of money and we think it is incredibly important for people to be able to participate – to be able to have those things we take for granted.”

As more people struggle to pay their bills and have less for food, Tessa says there is an increased need for food parcels and many people will be going through incredible stress.“We don’t talk enough about the mental health issue of financial stress. Social support is really valuable.”

Anna Smart

“Online

shopping,

it’s really good because you can select what you need.”

Tracy Kaifoto

“I buy them in bulk, really.”

Paul McCarthy “Grow your own produce.”

Ryan Gaudin “Shopping with my good mate, he’s got a vege shop.”

‘Ludicrous’ plan for Stoke interchange

SARA HOLLYMAN

Stoke business owners say they will fight for their businesses as the council propose to remove parking to make way for a new bus interchange outside a block of shops on the main road.

Main Rd Stoke businesses situated between Songer St and Putaitai St were hand-delivered a letter on 30 March informing them that Nelson City Council plans to remove the bus stop from outside Countdown, instead installing a bus interchange outside their businesses. It also invited them to a feedback session on 5 April. The group of affected shops include Night ‘n Day Stoke, Stoke Bakery, Squires and a pharmacy. The Veggie Guy owner Karl Hadfield, who is also affected, says at the feedback session, they were presented with five options to have the bus stop at different locations, all within the same stretch of road. He feels there was no choice at all.

“It was really disappointing because it was five different options with the lines drawn in different places on the same stretch of road, they weren’t five options.”

He says all of the options would affect car-parking for his and most of the other businesses on the stretch of road.

The changes are proposed as part of Nelson Tasman’s new bus service which launches on 1 August. The service relies on a fleet of 17 electric buses. Part of the new service includes improved coverage for Stoke west.

“Last week we met with Stoke businesses to discuss options as to the best placement of bus stops to accommodate our new service,” says group manager infrastructure, Alec Louverdis, “We got great feedback and some useful insights from everyone involved in the meeting.”

He says no decision has been reached and the next step will be to consider feedback and work through more options.

Squires owner Kim Hall says removing 12 carparks from outside the main Stoke shopping hub is “ludicrous”.

“It’s mind-boggling and it’s sad for the businesses. We worked too hard after Covid and everything else to get back on our feet.”

She says the plan would mean travellers could no longer stop to grab a coffee on the way to

work, whip in for a bottle of milk, or pop into the bakery.

Karl says it wasn’t until after council purchased the buses that they realised they wouldn’t be able to navigate around the intersection of Songer St and Main Rd Stoke. Now the buses need to go into Putaitai St and along Neale Ave before continuing down Songer St.

“Every intersection on those streets will need changing to accommodate the bus because they’re too big,” says Karl.

Karl suggests a better location for the interchange would be further up Main Rd Stoke near the Stoke Youth Park.

“No one’s opposed to an electric bus or a good bus service, but it’s not very well planned when the buses were supposed to be here on 1 July, now it’s going to be here on 1 August but they haven’t even worked out where it’s going to go.”

Kim agrees that more thought needs to go into the location of the interchange.

“Council staff are committed to an outcome that will improve Nelson’s bus service and avoid disruption to local businesses and will continue to work with our community on achieving this,” Alec says.

Luigi the cat burglar

KATE RUSSELL

There is a toy thief in Stoke, and he comes in the feline form.

Luigi the two-year-old cat has been stealing children’s soft toys and making quite the collection with them.

His owner Nikki Wells says it all started with leaves and bugs but it has now progressed into soft toys.

“The leaves were a huge thing for ages, then it progressed into bits of rubbish and sandpit toys before he started finding toys,” she says.

“When he brought in the first soft toy, he refused to drop it. Then, the next night he found the octopus toy. I couldn’t believe it.”

Things escalated when

Nikki found a gigantic unicorn plushie on the front lawn.

“It had Luigi written all over it.”

Nikki put up a photo of the toys on a local community Facebook group in hopes of finding the owners of the toys, but so far has had no luck.

She says he is pretty good at catching birds and mice too, but prefers to let them loose inside.

“He brings in all sorts of live things and releases them in the house.”

He has even come home with a cooked sausage.

“I don’t know whose BBQ he stole that off,” says Nikki.

Nikki says, when they adopted Luigi he was called Magnum.

“But we changed it to Luigi because of his mous-

tache.”

It seems that Luigi isn’t the only cat thief in Nelson, with many people revealing their cat’s thieving ways in response to Nikki’s Facebook post.

“Our cat does this too,” said one commenter. “Her name is Puss and she’s crazy. She will bring pants, undies, socks, tea towels.” Another suggested Luigi had done local parents a favour by helping clear out the toy box.

Nerf bullets also seem to be a favourite item to steal among local felines. Meanwhile, Nikki says she would love to get the toys back to their rightful owners.

If you live in the Nayland area and think they could be yours, email kate@nel sonweekly.co.nz

Luigi with some of the soft toys he has stolen.

Photo: Kate Russell.

Nile St housing development progresses

KATE RUSSELL

Kāinga Ora is progressing plans for new public homes on a prominent central city site in Nelson, following the purchase of land occupied by the former Nelson Masonic Lodge last year.

Planning for the housing development on Nile St has continued since they bought the 3000m2 site in October.

A contractor started site testing last week, ahead of the

removal of the fire-damaged building later in the month.

“It’s great to see progress being made on this well-located site, which is close to schools, shops, and other amenities,” says Kāinga Ora Regional Director Nelson, Marlborough, and West Coast, Julia Campbell.

“We appreciate neighbours’ patience as we go about this work. There may be some noise and dust while the work is carried out, but our contrac-

tors will be doing all they can to minimise this.”

Julia says they are still in the early planning stages of the development and are working through how many homes will be built on the site.

“All going well, we’re hoping to lodge resource consent towards the middle of this year. We’re looking forward to sharing plans with neighbours and other people interested in the site, as we know more.”

Fencing will go up and ma-

Chess ‘boot camp’ comes to Victory

FROM PAGE 1

“You need to do a lot of study and research on your opponents.”

Rami says he soon realised that he enjoyed the game more as a hobby and relishes teaching others how to play it. “I play more to have fun and I love teaching kids how to enjoy the game.”

Rami has run the Nelson Chess Club for the past three years and says the interest has been great.

“There has been a real chess boom lately, especially with the TV show, The Queen’s Gambit.”

To help spread his knowledge

even further locally, Rami approached the Victory Community Centre to see if they would be keen to have him run some lessons. They are to be held on Tuesday afternoons at the centre,

3.30pm - 4.30pm from 2 May until 27 June.

The first lesson is free, and after that, it is $12 per lesson or $90 for the whole term. For more information email ramiroriachi@gmail.com

chinery will move on to the site this week. Deconstruction of some of the non-structural parts of the building will begin after that.

Removal of the building, except its foundations, is expected to begin in

mid-April and be completed in midMay. As the site is historically significant, an archaeological authority is needed before the foundations can be removed, so this will occur at a later date.

The team at Isherwood Le Gros Law is excited to announce that we have merged with Tavendale and Partners, a Canterbury-based law firm that takes the same practical and peoplefocused approach to law as us.

Tavendale and Partners was founded 22 years ago with a vision to challenge the legal sector by doing things differently. The firm has since grown to a team of 75 and evolved to become a leading firm within the South Island, highly regarded for it’s understanding of New Zealand’s primary sector.

“It’s an exciting new chapter for both Tavendale and Partners and Isherwood Le Gros as we come together as one team,” explains Nelson based Partner, Alexandra Isherwood.

“With the growth of our practice, Tavendale and Partners are the ideal firm to merge with, due to their wide range of expertise and complimentary areas of legal practice including commercial, construction, employment, agribusiness, forestry and resource management.”

From Tavendale and Partners’ perspective, CEO Gemma Wragg says that Isherwood Le Gros “…have the same people-focused approach and commitment to doing law differently. With an unrivalled understanding of the Tasman region and offering top quality le-

gal advice, we are delighted to have them join the Tavendale and Partners team.”

From the 1st of April, Isherwood Le Gros will operate under the Tavendale and Partners’ name. However, for existing clients, it’s business as usual, and the Nelson team at our Harley Street office will still be your first port of call. You may also see some new faces visiting from Christchurch or Ashburton, with our lawyers committed to operating as one team and travelling as necessary to meet our clients’ needs.

Going forward, we will continue working with existing and new clients to navigate challenges, find solutions, and create opportunities within the Nelson region. To us, building a relationship with our clients means understanding what matters to them, their family and their business. Our priority is your success.

If you would like to know more about the merging of our firms, or if one of our legal experts can assist you, please do not hesitate to get in touch. You + Us.

P. 03 546 9995

E. you+us@tp.co.nz

W. tp.co.nz

Woodsmen reunite

SARA HOLLYMAN

Denis Wastney thinks back fondly to his time in the forestry service – an industry he dedicated much of his life to.

He was just 15 years old in 1957 when he left home to go to the Golden Downs Woodsman Training School.

“I can’t imagine a 15-year-old being taken 40-odd miles out of Nelson now, by 15 they’ve probably got motorbikes and cars and are probably going out every night, but in those days, we were taken way out into the bush and dropped off.”

He was one of 45 young men to begin the training that year, but four years later was one of only 16 who qualified as a skilled woodsman.

Entrants were usually just 15 or 16 years old, and spent the next three years learning forestry skills.

Over Easter weekend Denis had the chance to reconnect with some of those men at the reunion of the woodsman training school.

Reunion organiser Sally Quickfall says more than 150 people attended the dinner on Saturday night, spending time reconnecting and reminiscing of days gone by. The weekend was packed with activities including heading back to where the Woodsman school once stood in the Golden Downs Forest and a visit to Tapawera –

where the school moved to in 1982.

Denis, now 82, still remembers starting at the school in what he describes as the beginning of a physically and mentally tough career.

“It was hard life but an easy life, a lot of people can’t handle the isolation.

Denis’ grandfather, father and uncles had all been in forestry, so he reckons he had a slight upper hand on some of the other young men.

During the first year at the school, he came home to visit just once. A bus would run to town once a month on the weekend – heading back around 10pm once the final movie sitting had finished, other than that it was their own company and the outdoors that kept them going.

“You went in there knowing nothing about trees. Out there you were taught everything from land-clearing, planting, policing, silviculture work, pruning, thinning and logging. It was a dangerous operation,” Denis recalls.

“We didn’t have chainsaws, we had what they called an M tooth crosscut saw – one person on either side of the tree and you had to drag it each time. It would take 2-3 minutes to cut through the tree once an axe had been used to scarf the tree.

“They didn’t always fall the way we wanted them to go.”

He recalls having great fun setting the trees up like dominoes while on thinning duty.

“We could cut the trees part-way through and then drop the last one and there’d be a whole crash and maybe a dozen or two dozen trees would come crashing down, we’d see how many we could get down in one go.

“You made your own entertainment up there. We had a lot of fun.”

After graduating Denis headed

to Eyrewell forest in Canterbury where he stayed through two major wind throw events. It was here that he met his wife –the daughter of the forest’s 2IC. “My mate, who was my best man at the wedding, said ‘this family’s got a girl’, the old story happens and I asked her out and she said ‘yes’. We got married in 1965.”

Denis later ended up back at the Golden Downs in a management capacity in 1977 before taking over management of Hira Forest.

“I’d been there not very long when the fire broke out in 1981 – that was my big induction into fires.

Denis retired from forestry when the Forestry Service disbanded in 1987. He did a bit of work here and there but says he never really found another job that filled his heart quite like forestry did. Denis says his best memory of his career is simply being in forestry and he looks forward to the next reunion.

New Horizons for former Knapps’ Partners

On 1 May 2023 Atkinson Crehan Law will commence operating.

Our new firm will combine the expertise of former Partners from Knapps Lawyers, Jacintha Atkinson-Manson and Amanda Crehan, with the ongoing expertise of Christine Allison, Kirsty Goodall, Nick Moore, Merv Huston, Marie Austin, Alison Macbeth, and Sarah Clements. We will continue to be situated at 22 Oxford Street, Richmond.

We will also continue our presence in Motueka with the expertise of Hamish Kennedy [former Partner of Knapps and Kennedy & Associates] leading the team along with an office in Nelson central.

It’s a privilege to maintain our working relationship with our legal and office staff, to continue to offer a great level of service to our clients, existing and new.

We will continue to offer the following services: Wills, Power of Attorney, Estate Administration, Buying & Selling Residential, Commercial, Rural or Industrial Property, Family Trusts & Asset Planning, Relationship Contracting Out Agreements, Buying & Selling Businesses, Developments & Subdivisions, Business Structures. What will you get with Atkinson Crehan?

We believe in making your experience with us as easy as possible. You’ll get expert, friendly advice from our qualified legal staff who know what they are doing. We are in the business of Law because we love what we do, we enjoy helping our clients, and we believe in making a positive difference.

Keep an eye out for our new website which will go live on 1 May 2023. You’ll find on there useful information about current topics along with who you can talk to should you need our help.

We look forward to seeing you.

Where expertise and empathy go hand in hand.

The team at Atkinson Crehan Law

Denis Wastney reconnected with his fellow the Golden Downs Woodsman Training School at a reunion over Easter. Photo: Sara Hollyman.

Airport right to plan for extension

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

Nelson Airport is asking “absolutely the right question” as it pursues plans to extend its runway in the future, according to Air New Zealand board chair Dame Therese Walsh.

The airport is independently pursuing an extended runway to better cater for future sustainable aircraft, which are expected to require longer runways than the airport currently provides, in addition to removing existing payload restrictions and improving safety.

“Sustainability and these next generation of aircraft are coming at us really quickly,” Therese says.

Air New Zealand is planning to have a commercial demonstrator of a zero-emission aircraft by 2026, while the airline’s fleet of Q300 planes – the aircraft that provides most air travel services to and from Nelson Airport – is due to be replaced in a staged manner from 2030 onwards with more sustainable options.

Therese says the company doesn’t have “total clarity” on what the replacements will

look like because a range of options are being considered, including aircraft which are battery-hybrids or those that run on green hydrogen. However, that uncertainty regarding aircraft that may only be seven years away meant that airports were trying to adapt to unknown conditions.

“What all of the airports are trying to do is understand what does that mean for the infrastructure and the airport layouts,” she says.

Nelson Airport is seeking the necessary planning approvals to extend the airport’s runway in the next 10-15 years.

Nelson Airport chief executive Mark Thompson says the airport is committed to contributing to the sustainability of Nelson-Tasman and is in “clear alignment” with Air New Zealand’s pledge to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“Air New Zealand, as our national carrier, is a major player in delivering that mission, so this week’s visit was an important opportunity for us to discuss how we can align our priorities for the ultimate benefit of this region.”

Therese made her comments during a “very productive” vis-

it to the Top of the South last week, with other board members, where they connected with their teams on the ground and met with key regional stakeholders, including Mayor Nick Smith.

“It speaks volumes of Air New Zealand’s commitment to Nelson that its board chair, Therese, and its full board, has chosen to visit Nelson,” Nick says. Issues like climate change were discussed and Nick believes the region could be an “early starter” for sustainable aircraft once the Q300s begin to be replaced.

“The Nelson to Wellington flights are relatively shorthaul trips that are likely to be well-suited to this new generation of aircraft.”

The “critical” recovery of the local tourism industry was also in the forefront of Nick’s mind. Nelson Airport is the second-busiest regional airport for Air New Zealand in the South Island, behind Queenstown, with about 250 flights leaving the region a week.

Minister visits to Nelson and affordable rental homes

Last week the Nelson Tasman Housing Trust opened five new affordable rentals in Tāhunanui These warm, dry and affordable homes will add to Nelson’s stock of community and public housing These homes have been funded through Nelson City Council s Housing Reserve Fund, which was established following the sale of the Council s pensioner housing to Government housing provider Kāinga Ora While it was controversial at the time, we are now seeing the benefits of the sale, with more community homes being built in Nelson, and Kāinga Ora upgrading the pensioner flats so that they are warm, dry and accessible for tenants My congratulations to the Nelson Tasman Housing Trust for their ongoing work to increase the number of affordable rentals in Nelson

I’m delighted to be hosting Deputy Prime Minister Carmel Sepuloni in Nelson this week The Deputy Prime Minister will be meeting with seniors arts representatives and representatives from the Nelson Tasman Pasifika Trust

On Sunday I’ll be hosting Minister for Conservation, Willow-Jean Prime at the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary Open Day The Government has invested into the Sanctuary recently through our Jobs for Nature programme, and as Nelson s MP

I m proud to see it flourishing Their open day is on Sunday 16 April from 10am – 4pm, pop on your walking shoes and bring the kids for a stroll through the bush tracks

Air New Zealand’s board, including chair Dame Therese Walsh, visited Nelson Airport last week and discussed the two companies’ sustainability plans. Photo: Air New Zealand.

LIVING WELL

What are the different components that support an older person to live well? Come along to our new course and find out!

We have developed a holistic course which runs over eight consecutive Tuesdays starting on 2 May. Each class runs from 10am to 11am and is at the Age Concern Office, 18 Bridge Street, Nelson. Koha of $3 per week.

DATES AND TOPICS:

• 2 May Connections

• 9 May Eat Well

• 16 May Move Well

• 23 May Financially Well

• 30 May Sleep Well

• 6 June Dealing with Loss

• 13 June Think Well

• 20 June Bringing it Together

Registrations Essential. Phone Miriam on 544 7624, ext 6 or email: support@ageconcernnt.org.nz.

Creative Space calls for community support to find a new art studio

SARA HOLLYMAN

A community art studio that supports those in mental distress is calling for community support to find and fund a larger space.

Magenta Creative Space is the only free, walk-in, fully resourced arts studio in Nelson, providing a space for people experiencing mental distress. It is a safe space that allows those people, including at-risk youth, to socialise, feel accepted, express themselves creatively, and develop relationships with others facing similar challenges in a safe, non-institutional environment.

Manager Kay van Dyk says that with a reduction in person-to-person mental health support services in Nelson and increased referrals to Magenta, the current studio space, located in the back of the Old St Johns Church community hall on Hardy St, does not meet the increased demand and current needs of clients.

Currently more than 80 artists use the space regularly - more than 60 adults and a little over 20 at-risk youths - but Kay ex-

pects those numbers to continue to grow.

“We want everyone to feel welcome, but with increased demand comes increased pressure on our existing space. We are now looking for a Nelson central city location to move into,” Kay says.

The community group is appealing to the Nelson community for support via donations or by helping Magenta identify community rental opportunities that provide long-term security in an appropriate space.

Magenta has been operating for 22 years, with some artists having used the space since the beginning.

Artist Marina McPherson has utilized the space for 17 years and is about to host her first solo exhibition.

“The organisation aims to bridge the gap for people who encounter limited access to mental health and other support services through the exploration of creativity as a proven means to enhance recovery and maintain well-being,” Kay says.

She says the move will be an opportunity to scale up their

programme delivery in a fitfor-purpose studio.

Kay says their fundraising has been bolstered by a recent grant from Rātā Foundation, but they need more financial support to assist with the move.

Rātā Foundation chief executive Leighton Evans says the foundation wants to see people thrive so they can participate positively in the community. “This means people getting the right support when they need it.

“Magenta supports people to help them overcome their mental health challenges and transform their lives through creative expression – something that contributes to the de-stigmatisation of mental health and aligns well with Rātā funding priorities.” To help raise awareness and support for their cause, Magenta hosted an open day last week.

The drop-in art studio is open five days a week, and no referral is needed.

For further information visit the magentacreativespace.co.nz or call 0272555805.

From left: Marina McPherson, Ken Ruffell, Janine Neville and Kay van Dyk at Magenta Creative Space. Photo: Sara Hollyman.

Does Nelson need priority lanes?

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

Priority lanes – dedicated lanes for buses, trucks, and car-poolers – “aid in reducing congestion and speed up travel times” according to the Waka Kotahi – New Zealand Transport Agency website.

A new regional bus services launches in August and would surely benefit from priority lanes, but the Nelson Future Access project, a plan to address congestion in the city, only has provisions for the lanes in the medium- to long-term – at least ten years from now.

“Delivering the near-term activities in the recommended programme will lead to early active mode shift and travel time benefits,” says Robyn Elston, Waka Kotahi’s national manager system design.

The first 10 years of the project’s work programme focus on upgrading active transport connections to increase safety for pedestrians and cyclists which encourages people out of their cars by reducing car dependency.

“This should help relieve some congestion challenges,” Robyn says.

However, Tasman Mayor Tim King thinks priority lanes would be a “huge step forward” for the regional bus service.

“Cities that have invested in faster public transport networks have seen passenger numbers increase accordingly,” he says. “This is a key recognised solution for the problem of needing to move lots of people during peak commuting times.”

So why the delay in implementing them?

“The timeframes for implementing the [project’s work] programme are timed to match increasing transport demand and provide value for money,” Robyn says.

Nelson City Council’s group manager infrastructure Alec Louverdis tells a similar story, saying that council is investing in “low-cost, low-risk budgets” to increase safety for active transport which aims to reduce congestion. So cheaper and easier solutions for addressing congestion are being pursued before more expensive projects, like installing priority lanes along Tāhunanui Drive and Waimea Road. But this avenue also allows for the Nelson Future Access project to be reassessed over time before those expensive plans are enacted.

Nelson MP Rachel Boyack, who is a member of Parliament’s transport and infrastructure select committee, says it’s not guaranteed that priority lanes will be implemented.

“If we have priority lanes, and it is an if, then I’d love to see them for buses. My view, though, is we really should be making enough of a modal shift that we don’t need the priority lanes.”

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Rachel mentions that people who uses buses generally do so with the understanding that their journey will be a little longer than if they take a car, but highlights the other benefits of public transport like it being cheaper than a car in terms of fuel and maintenance costs, and being able to do other tasks, like read or send emails while travelling, which you can’t do when driving.

“When we’re making transport choices – if we’re able, not everyone is able to, but if we’re able to – we need to be making a choice that is not only going to benefit us but benefit everybody else.”

A new bus service launches across the region in August, should priority lanes be installed to make the service better? Photo: Nelson City Council.

Nelson Giants at Trafalgar Centre

Celebration for Jacinda Ardern

What to do about a new library

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

Residents are once again being asked about a new library after Nelson City Council decided to scrap plans to borrow $17.6 million that had been earmarked for a $46.3 million new facility on the Maitai River.

However, council is proposing that $200,000 still be used rescope the goal of a new community facility, including a new library, at a different site that overcomes concerns about the cost and location of the previous plan. Council has put the proposal out for consultation as part of its Annual Plan process, which gives resident’s a chance to have their say on where money should and should not be spent.

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith has previously said that spending an estimated $46.3 million on a new library facility is “unaffordable” in the current economic environment.

Concerns were also raised about the proposed riverside location of the new facility when king tides and coastal inundation occurs in the future due to sea level rise.

Spending on the new facility was put on pause in Novem-

ber, however the city still needs a new library.

“The current library is an ageing building and also too small for our community’s needs,” says Andrew White, council’s group manager community services.

“Library management often have to turn down requests from different groups looking for a place to meet.”

Parts of the Elma Turner Library building date back to 1973 when it was a car sales office.

However, the most significant hurdle reared its head in June when the building was found to be earthquake prone and was then closed.

$1.4 million is being spent on strengthening works which is seeing the build-

ing progressively re-open in stages.

“These improvements to the facility are about getting it reopened and buying some time,” Nick says.

“There’s no magic for this stuff. Just like if you’ve got an old car or old house, eventually it gets to the point where replacement is the best option.”

That’s where the proposed $200,000 for investigative work comes in.

It will allow further opportunity for engagement and communication on the project, and time to clearly define its scope.

Council says this approach is consistent with the decision to strengthen the Elma Turner Library building as

The Big Latch On

After hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, The Big Latch event is back in Nelson this weekend. The Big Latch On aims to support parents in their communities on their feeding journeys, by creating safe and accepting spaces.

“It provides an opportunity for parents to connect with and meet new friends, and receive support and information from local services,” says organiser Ruth Brodbeck.

Ruth says Nelson has been having Big Latch On events since 2005 when it was first started by Women’s Health Action.

“This is a global event that started right here in New Zealand,” she says.

Ruth says that parents and whānau can attend Big Latch On events in person, virtually, or participate in the online Brelfie campaign.

there is now time to consider cheaper, alternative options. However, the trade-off is that it will delay when the new facility will be completed.

Nelsonians can submit on the proposals for council’s annual plan, like this plan for the new library funds, by filling out the survey at nelson.govt.nz, or by writing to or calling council to give their thoughts.

Mayor Nick Smith and other elected members will also be available to answer annual plan questions each Saturday during April at the Nelson Market.

“This event is an opportunity to come together and connect with others, find out about local services for new mothers, fathers, and whanau.”

Afternoon tea, babywearing information, Plunket, La Leche League, spot prizes, and a DanceFun Babywearing session with Pablo from Nelson Dance and Entertainment will be on offer.

The event is happening on Saturday, 15 April, 1pm - 4pm at the Victory Community Centre.

Gardening tips for April

Our new site at 38 Artillery Place, Richmond is wonderful - we have everything you could possibly want - a myriad of landscape supplies plus a fabulous range of trees, shrubs, grasses, fruit trees, perennials, vegetables, herbs, bedding plants and more. We’d love you to call in; turn into Sandeman Road by Nelson Pine, right into Artillery Place and drive through the gates at the end – you can’t miss our huge white canopies – your perfect one-stop destination.

Now is the perfect time to plant spring bulbs. We have a great range of anemones (including woodland varieties), daffodils, Dutch iris, hyacinths, ranunculus and more.

If you’re planting in containers, our premium potting mix is the perfect option – your bulbs will love it. Tulips will be in soon – keep them in your fridge until May, the optimum time to plant them.

Landscapes are always ready with a smile and great gardening advice.

The rising cost of living is at the forefront of everyone’s minds. We have a wonderful range of vegetables in punnets year-round, ensuring they are the correct varieties for each season. If you have a small garden or a vegetable pod, our ‘Pick and Mix’ seedlings are the perfect solu-

tion - choose from our range of single seedlings and herbs, just $1 each. It’s also a fabulous way to stagger plantings in your vegetable garden. Our herb stand is always packed with gorgeous culinary and aromatic herbs. Pineapple sage is a must-have – the young leaves are beautiful in a ham and cheese toasted sandwich and the gorgeous red flowers are produced through the winter. Everyone raves about our fish compost – it’s perfect for topping up existing ornamental and vegetable gardens. If you are filling raised beds, our garden mix is ideal – it’s a combination of screened topsoil and fish compost. Autumn is a great time to repair patches in existing lawns – cover the areas with our Tub and Plant Mix, then scatter Trophy Lawn Seed around and rake in gently. Trophy Lawn Seed is produced locally using grasses best suited to our area, yearround. If you’re sowing a new lawn, our Lawn Mix is perfect – available by the scoop or cubic metre, it helps ensure you’ll get good results. We also have rollers for hire – rolling the lawn mix first ensures an even surface, then sow your seed and rake it in lightly.

Lucy and Jasmin from Bays

Gardening Column by Bay Landscapes & Garden Centre’s Philippa Foes-Lamb

McShane Road, Richmond

HALF PRICE CHRISTMAS STOCK

Council is proposing to abandon work on the original plan for a new riverside library to investigate other options in alternative locations. Photo: Nelson City Council.

The

strategy to put a cap on congestion

Hey! I know! Commission

ANOTHER report! Much easier than actually doing anything, as this government have demonstrated.

James Brown

Traffic lights so close to existing traffic’s lights around the hospital is going to help congestion how?

Debbie Gardner

It’s pathetic. Need an over ramp or something. Giving out house permits to build, but no room on the roads for them. Or water. Gee, need something fast.

Gail Hassell

Yet absolutely nothing to help congestion, lol. One would think a bypass (for vehicles) is most urgent priority!!!!

Shane Tasker

Nothing’s been done in over 15 years, only paper promises from Dr Nick, and over 1 million dollars in engineer

reports and the obvious trip metres which count cars.

Kyle Hedley

Moggy mystery: Stoke cat found in Lud Valley

There was another cat found on the Whangamoas, too!

Natalie Hunter

On ya staiz! Who knows this might bring some awareness to people around the area whose cats have gone missing too!!

Danni Bett

Glad he’s back home, perhaps he got into a vehicle!!!

Karen Grey

Property developer in dispute with neighbours

Sounds like a perfect subdivision for me and my 8 domesticated cats!

Angie Holdaway

So, the trees were there first -problem solved!!

Carey Gary

Keep the trees. Just look at all new subdivisions and developments. There is nothing above the roof line as there is no space for trees.

Peter Peterson

Why should someone have to change on their land to suit you because you have done a development next door. Must be a nuisance when

Looking for the latest property?

you can’t just push people around.

Richard Johns

Moral of the story, get your trees back in line before selling off sections near said trees.

Chrissy Randall

Well think about other people. Shelter is needed, not concrete jungles that you can’t sit outside and have to whisper.

Raydon Frost

On!

Acrylic Pouring Workshop

Friday, 14 April, 1.30-2.30pm

Riverside Community & Cultural Centre

$10 per child. Bookings essential. Learn about Acrylic pouring, and take home your own masterpiece.

https://www.riverside.org.nz/event-details/ acrylic-pouring-for-kids-5-to-18-years-old

Sri Lankan New Year Festival (Avurudu)

Saturday, 15 April, 9am – 3pm

ANZAC Park

Joyful festival bringing family, friends and relatives together in harmony. This is a free and open event. All are welcome! Bring your whole family, own chair, umbrella and blankets.

Nelson’s Big Green Day Out

Sunday, 16 April, 10-4pm

The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary

Celebrate our native flora and fauna in an idyllic setting. Take a stroll along peaceful bush tracks or sit and enjoy the bird song.

Nelson Matters

Hon Dr Nick Smith

COMMUNITY PROGRESS ON HOUSING

Housing is one of Nelson’s most difficult problems. Rents are soaring. It is hellishly hard to find a home to rent. We have record numbers of homeless living on the streets and living permanently in campgrounds. The housing shortage is also compounding the skills shortage for businesses because new staff can’t find accommodation.

The Reserve Bank’s big hike in interest rates last week will cause more housing pain. The Official Cash Rate hit 5.25%. It is higher than Australia’s 3.6% and other countries because our Government was more rash in printing money and increasing spending. This latest rise in the OCR comes after successive hikes since October 2021 from a low of 0.25%. Banks will be notifying thousands of Nelson households in coming months of interest rate hikes from 2.5% to 6.5%, pushing up mortgage costs by an average $300 per week.

Council is only a bit player in resolving these housing woes but there is smart stuff we can do to help. We need to make it easier to build more houses both through intensification and greenfield developments. This year we are making big changes to our planning rules and investing millions in upgrading infrastructure.

Nelson’s housing problems have been made worse by KiwiBuild failing. The 2017 initiative promised 100,000 new affordable homes would be built over 10 years. Funding for community housing was reduced on the theory that government agencies could build faster and cheaper. Nelson-Tasman was promised 1000 KiwiBuild homes but none have been built. The better solution is community housing. The Nelson Tasman Housing Trust was established in 2004 and now has 50 quality, affordable rental homes. Last week, it opened its latest development of five further homes in Tāhunanui, built for $2.4 million, of which Council contributed $850,000. I committed to the goal last year to work with the Trust to double its homes to 100 by 2026. The Trust has Council and Government funding for its next 10-house development in Atawhai. Huge thanks to Trust Chair Andrew Wilson, Director Carrie Mozena and the team for their work. There is a wider lesson here on tough issues – the best results and value for money are often achieved by local and central government partnering with community organisations.

Nick Smith MAYOR OF NELSON

Barden Party winds up season with a blockbuster finale

You’re invited to the Season Finale of the award-winning Barden Party’s latest production of Much Ado About Nothing.

What started as an experiment in a Nelson backyard during a pandemic has sprouted into a beloved company that has performed across the country and in the US.

But for this special show, the entire double cast of the show will appear on stage at the Theatre Royal for the first and last time.

“It has been such an incredible season with an amazing group of performers who have become great friends,” director Laura Irish says. “We really wanted to acknowledge that by getting them all on stage one last time for a final show with a difference.”

Usually a different cast has performed in different locations around the country meaning some performers have never seen the other on stage before.

“That will all change,” Laura says. “And we can pretty much guarantee it’s going to be a raucous show that you don’t want to miss out on.”

This season has seen The Barden Party perform in Wellington, Auckland, Rotorua, Christchurch, Taranaki, Ashburton, Greymouth, Invercargill and

IT’S BACK!

Dunedin (to name a few). But for the final show of its season they wanted to bring it back to where it all began, in Nelson.

The Barden Party will navigate the intertwining tales of Beatrice and Benedick, and Hero and Claudio, as they fall in love and fight and reunite, by peppering the story

with pop songs fused into mostly country, folk and bluegrass-style creations with some 1950s flair. The show features reimagined songs from Beyoncé, Billy Joel, The B-52s and Outkast – all arranged by musical director Jake Robinson.

The Barden Party is a Nelson

success story - giving talented emerging performers the support to work on their craft while delighting audiences who thought Shakespeare might not be for them.

And it’s only the beginning, with further plans for international expansion as well as a Winter show

Win this EV!

currently booking around the country.

The Barden Party presents Much Ado About Nothing at the Theatre Royal, April 15 at 7pm. Tickets $30-$40 at https://www.theatreroyalnelson.co.nz/show/muchado-about-nothing/

The Barden Party cast has performed around the country and is coming back to Nelson for one last time this season. Photo: Jason Blair.

OUR NELSON TŌ TĀTOU WHAKATŪ

New Chief Executive welcomed

Nelson City Council staff, elected members, iwi representatives, and others gathered at a mihi whakatau on Monday (3 April) to welcome Council's new Chief Executive, Nigel Philpott, to the organisation he will lead for a term of five years.

Together with Council staff and kaumātua, elected members and iwi representatives, Mayor Nick Smith offered a warm welcome to the new Chief Executive.

He reiterated that together with Nigel, it was important for them to build a family culture across Nelson City Council, one that not only does the best it can for its residents and ratepayers but also for its team and the families that support them. Mayor Nick expressed confidence in the new Chief Executive's people and human resource skills and his ability to lead a high performing team.

Nigel comes to us from the Primary ITO where he most recently served as Chief Executive. He has had an extensive career with the Royal Navy in the UK and the Royal New Zealand Navy, and roles in the Ministry of Social Development, and Ministry of Education. Nigel holds a BA in Economic and Political Geography, a Master’s in Strategic Studies and a Master’s in Human Resources.

Nelson City Council wish to thank InterimChief Executive Lindsay McKenzie for leading the organisation over the past few months.

Long-closed section of Coppermine Trail reopening

The pipeline section of the Coppermine Trail between the Maitai Dam and Smith’s Ford will reopen Saturday 15 April.

This section of the trail has been closed on and off for several years due to slips, forestry harvesting, and, most recently, the 2022 August severe weather.

Mayor part of Nelson quartet to run in the New York City Marathon

Forty years after he won the New York City Marathon, Nelson-born runner Rod Dixon is back in his hometown with fellow running legend Lorraine Moller to help four Nelsonians, including Mayor Nick Smith, prepare for the largest marathon in the world.

The most recent work carried out on the trail held up extremely well during the weather event, which means we are able to reopen with confidence. Ongoing monitoring will still continue following high rainfall events but will not require a standard closure period as we have had in place in the past.

The track was reopened following the installation of a 2.8 tonne recreational bridge by Wenham Contracting. The bridge was airlifted in with a Blackhawk helicopter and installed next to the repaired Maitai Raw Water pipeline. This bridge allows the entire track to open.

Over 5000 riders used the Coppermine Trail last year. A 42km loop from Nelson city, it’s considered one of New Zealand’s Great Rides

Please note, there is still a risk of ongoing rock fall at the original slip site. Trail users are advised not to stop at this section of the trail. Signage is in place.

In turn, Mayor Nick, along with Tāhunanui School Principal Barbara Bowen, Saint Paul's Catholic School Board Chair Lester Binns and Top South Media Managing Director Andrew Board aim to

raise funds for Rod Dixon’s KiDSMARATHON, for the delivery of the programme in Nelson-Tasman schools.

From left to right: Andrew Board, Rod Dixon, Lorraine Moller, Nick Smith, Lester Binns and Barbara Bowen.

At Nelson College, legacy and modernity coalesce. In preparing our young men for the challenges of a complex world, we are guided by a system of three core values. By practicing manaaki (care), pono (integrity), and kairangi (success), students receive a robust character education, which carries them through life as future fathers, workers, learners, teachers, and leaders. By honouring these values, they will bring compassion, competency and sincerity to all that they do.

Young men want to explore. They want learning to be fun and challenging. The school environment needs to be a place where they can question and test new ideas, as well as acquire the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the next chapter of their education and life ahead. At Nelson College, we have built that environment.

We want our students to be excited about life, and to discover and pursue their dreams, knowing that there will be challenges along the way. We provide the space and support for young

Nelson College for Boys START

men to learn and find their passion. A place to be encouraged and extended to succeed in learning. Being a single sex school gives us the ability to focus more deeply on the intellectual, physical, social and emotional needs of boys and young men. We work hard to encourage strong friendships and reward positive masculinity. Our students also benefit from a 50/50 blend of male and female teachers who have a deep appreciation for boyhood and the intense and complex experiences that can go along with it.

We continue to strengthen our relationship with our sister school Nelson College for Girls, a relationship that is becoming part of who we are. Through mutual school visits, academic activities, camps, clubs and dances, each school gives its students the best of both worlds.

We are proud of our academic reputation, with NCEA achievement and endorsement levels

consistently above the national average. Destination data indicate that STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) degrees account for the majority of undergraduate degrees favoured by schoolleavers, followed by business and commerce. Our sporting legacy is well known, with sports academies providing the high-perfor-

mance training needed to excel in regional and national competitions. The arts, and our itinerant music lessons, are ever- increasing in popularity. With a thriving co-curricular programme, from chess and future problem-solving to Duke of Edinburgh and lunchtime clubs – our students soon find their niche. Enrol at Nelson College, and Start Your Legacy.

As a specialist in boys’ education, we provide the stucture, opportunities and pastoral care to see your son succeed at school and beyond.

Nelson College for Girls

Nelson College for Girls / Te Kura Tamawāhine o Whakatū has a long history of education in the Nelson/Tasman region with strong academic results alongside a focus on inclusion and student wellbeing. We work to ensure all students are empowered to discover their potential; academically, and in sporting, arts and cultural pursuits.

Our kura lives by its PRIDE values; positivity, respect, integrity, diversity and empathy. We are very proud of what our students achieve with the support of passionate and committed kaiārahi, deans and subject teachers.

Heather McEwen, Acting Principal

Student leadership is a focus where students are empowered to be innovative in their approach to creating new and exciting challenges with their peers.

We want our students to thrive as strong, independent individuals, who are truly engaged

as relational, reflective, resourceful and resilient learners. Our vertical ārahi system of pastoral care is based on the principles of manaakitanga, whanaungatanga and kotahitanga where students work toward successful learning outcomes which are mana enhancing, build relationships with others and have a shared understanding and commitment to learning.

As we move forward, Te Kura Tamawāhine o Whakatū will take aspects of the past to create a fresh and inclusive vision for our future.

...where our students are given opportunities to excel.

Taster Day leaves an appetite for learning

After seventeen years in the food industry Tayshana (TJ) Mayer decided to take her creative streak in a totally different direction.

“I grew up in the far North, where there weren’t a lot of opportunities, so I was just cooking, cooking, cooking - paying the bills and raising my two children,” she says. “I loved making beautiful food, but I always wanted to do something arty.”

TJ took a job at Café Ake Ake in the Nelson Campus Student Centre so she could get a feel for life at Te Pūkenga NMIT. Her next step was to sign up for the Interior Design Taster Day session, although that nearly didn’t happen.

“I liked being around the students and I thought ‘maybe I can do this?’— but I almost didn’t because my nerves got to me. However, I knew if I didn’t do it now, I never would.”

TJ remembers how she felt when the Taster Day session started, and the tutor walked them over from the administration building to the Creative Industries G-block.

Although she had been working on campus, she’d never been inside G-Block, and was impressed by its beauty.

“Then we went upstairs, and I thought ‘I really want to be here’.”

“I remember sitting in the class with the tutor and thinking it was really cool to be in a space with all these creative people…

After the Taster Day session, TJ kept thinking about enrolling for the one-year Diploma in Interior Design. “I hadn’t studied since I was 17 and the enrolment deadline was getting closer and closer.

A week before I was watching all the students coming back on campus after the summer break and I thought ‘I have to be part of it’.”

Six weeks into the programme, TJ says she made the right choice. “I love being here. It is so much more than I thought it would be, and it’s cool being surrounded by other people who like the same stuff.”

Taster Days

“Taster Day made me hungry for more.”

TJ, getting a taste of Interior Design at the 2022 Taster Days.

New technology to reduce forestry debris to be used during Marsden Valley harvest

Nelson City Council’s contractor, PF Olsen, has begun preparation work for the upcoming forestry harvest in the Marsden Valley, with plans to use a new felling machine that will reduce the amount of forestry debris left behind.

The Timberpro TL 775D allows for greater control of trees as they are cut down. Traditional felling heads can only control the direction of a tree’s fall. This results in trees falling to the ground at a high speed, usually causing a portion of the tree to break off. These broken portions are left behind as debris, or slash, that later needs to be cleared.

With the new machine, trees are cut, lifted, and slowly lowered to the ground. At this slower speed, trees aren’t at risk of breaking when they fall, which makes for a much cleaner harvest with less slash left behind. Group Manager Infrastructure Alec Louverdis says the new machine will assist Council in fulfilling its commitment to responsible forestry.

“Reducing the amount of slash created by the harvest is important for us as responsible custodians of this land. While Council looks into the future of forestry in Nelson through its Right Tree, Right Place Taskforce, it’s vital that we continue to reduce the impact of forestry on our environment.”

Harvesting is expected to begin mid-May and will be conducted in phases:

The first phase begins this week, with crews building access roads in the reserve and undertaking

maintenance work on Glider Road to ensure it is suitable for logging trucks. They will also be removing slash from the previous harvest at this time.

The Barnicoat Walkway will remain open (weekdays and weekends) to the public during most of this work, although occasional closures may be necessary. Glider Road will also remain open at weekends; however, it will be closed during the week from Friday 14 April for logging truck access.

When closed, the road will be blocked, and signs will be in place. Please respect this closure, for your safety and the safety of truck drivers.

Starting mid-May, crews will do an initial monthlong bout of work in the Marsden Valley Reserve while they finish constructing the new forestry roads.

They will then move to harvest a separate forestry block in the Roding Forest, which is expected to take two to three months to complete. Crews are expected to return to the Marsden Valley Reserve around August or September to finish harvesting operations, although this timeline may change.

Any slash that is caused by the harvest will be

Hitting fast-forward on city centre living

hauled to a skid side where it will be carted away by Azwood Energy to turn into biofuels and landscaping products.

Once harvested, the area will be sewn with grass seed to reduce the risk of erosion in the area until Council decides how to move forward with its forestry assets, a decision which is currently being reviewed by the Right Tree, Right Place Taskforce.

One of the key matters considered in Nelson City Council’s Annual Plan consultation document involves bringing forward substantial three waters infrastructure upgrades in the city centre and the Bridge Street Linear Active Transport Corridor by using funding received through central government’s Infrastructure Acceleration Fund.

Once completed, the upgrades would support the potential development of approximately 1000 homes in Nelson's city centre.

Group Manager Infrastructure Alec Louverdis says Nelson has a housing crisis with a lack of appropriate, affordable housing.

“This significantly impacts community wellbeing and our economy because local businesses struggle to attract staff as they can’t find somewhere to live.”

Council applied to government’s Infrastructure Acceleration Fund and was allocated $36 million in October 2022 following evaluation. This funding is supported by $32 million already allocated in the Long Term Plan.

Louverdis says this is a one-off opportunity to make transformational change for our city.

“There are many people in Nelson who require secure, affordable housing. They may be older adults looking to downsize, newcomers to the area looking to start work, people with insecure employment or low income, or young people just starting out in life. Providing the infrastructure for up to 1000 extra dwellings in the city centre gives developers the opportunity and certainty to increase housing supply and alleviate some of the pressure on people looking for a place to live.”

The infrastructure upgrades will enhance investment for housing and commercial developments and improve resilience to storm events and the effects of climate change.

The project’s benefits include:

Using IAF funds to fast-track major infrastructure upgrades and housing capacity improvements

• Supporting the viability of significant housing developments

• Regenerating our city centre by making our streets busier for longer and more foot traffic on Bridge Street and in the city centre

• Supporting Council’s August 2022 severe weather event recovery effort by delivering three waters infrastructure to improve resilience in Nelson’s city centre

• Assisting in reducing Nelson’s carbon emissions by encouraging active travel (travelling by foot, bicycle, scooter etc).

What is the Bridge Street Linear Active Transport Corridor

The Bridge Street Linear Active Transport Corridor will run between Rutherford and Collingwood Streets and includes:

A new road layout to promote safe mixed use (for people and different modes of transport)

• Appropriate short-term parking for those who require it

Access to high quality green public spaces, and a possible new space for families to relax and play. Opportunities to offset any loss of parking elsewhere in the city will be explored as part of this project.

Cost

Council is proposing to bring forward $3 million from future years to 2023/24 to facilitate feasibility work, initial design and engagement. $1.9 million of this cost will be recovered from central government in future years.

What we’re proposing in 2023/24

$365,000 to begin the design of a water supply ring main from the trunk main on Bridge Street near Tasman Street along Bridge Street, Rutherford Street, Halifax Street and Collingwood Street

• $125,000 to begin the design of a new stormwater main along Bridge Street and associated green infrastructure, and a new flood gate for the Halifax Street stormwater outfall into Saltwater Creek

$435,000 to begin the design of a pump station upgrade around Paru Paru Road and renewal/ upgrade on Rutherford Street, Achilles Avenue and Bridge Street wastewater infrastructure

$2.1 million to begin the design of the Bridge Street Linear Active Transport Corridor between Rutherford and Collingwood Streets.

Tell us what you think

Do you agree we should be accelerating infrastructure upgrades in the city centre to enable central city living and receive central government funding? Visit nelson.govt.nz to make a submission.

The new machine can neatly lay down cut trees without them breaking, allowing for a cleaner harvest.

MR & MRS SMITH JUST LOVE ALL THINGS PROPERTY

This dynamic husband and wife team bring their many years of experience to do what they do best - property matchmaking. “We often think outside the box to present properties to purchasers which may not have even been on their radar. More often than not, they fall in love with it. It’s brilliant when that happens. We listen, we understand and we provide exceptional service. ‘Real estate doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful, it’s just about doing the little things exceptionally well.”

“This is what some of our clients say about us...

“Quite simply put, Mr & Mrs Smith are fabulous! As buyers new to NZ real estate, we were put at ease immediately. Richard & Lisa are professional, positive and honest, but most importantly, they listened. After viewing many properties not right for us, they showed us one that ticked all the boxes. As soon as we walked in, we knew this was going to be our new home. They

made the process incredibly easy. For anyone searching for a real estate agent we would not hesitate to recommend Mr & Mrs Smith! (US buyers) ++

“Outstanding agents. Being novices to the housing market, The Smiths gently and expertly guided us through the process of selling our first house and buying our next home. Excellent communicators, Lisa and Richard are really easy to talk to, they responded quickly to email and text communication. They were very patient with us and we never felt pressured. This duo really went the whole hog for us as sellers and then again as buyers. We will be singing their praises around town! Nelson vendors, please feel free to get in touch anytime for a confidential chat.”

Richard 027 300 1764 | Lisa 027 300 9033

Email thesmiths@summit.co.nz

TOP KAT ROOFING HAVE YOU COVERED

Nomatter what your roofing needs are, the experienced team at Top Kat Roofing Tasman have you covered. Specialists in roof restorations, roof repairs and spouting, you can rest easy knowing you will be in good hands with local owners David and Stephanie Savage.

With over 20 years of experience in the industry, the friendly local couple understands the region’s climate and, using their extensive knowledge and expertise in the industry, they can assist in selecting the best materials suited for the job, increasing the lifespan of your roof. Combined with their solid work ethic and passion for customer satisfaction, Top Kat Roofing Tasman are the perfect choice to help make your roof as good as new.

“We also work with all types of roofing materials, whether it be concrete tiles, decramastic tiles or long-run iron.”

“If you’ve noticed some wet patches on your ceiling or you think there is a leak in your roof, talk to us about roof repairs. Done properly, these spot repairs, like fixing

leaks and dealing with rust, can extend the life of your existing roof. If your roof has more widespread issues, then a complete restoration could be the answer. This addresses all problems across your roof and make it weathertight.”

Top Kat Roofing can also give your roof a new lease of life with a fresh coat of paint to help extend its lifespan and ensure your gutters are clear of any debris, while replacing, re-tensioning and repairing if needed.

Endorsed by the established brand, the team offer competitive quotes and exceptional guarantees on all their workmanship and products. Call Top Kat Roofing Tasman on 0800 36 70 70 for a free roof inspection and quote, David and Stephanie would love to hear from you!

www.topkat.co.nz

SPECIALIST AUTOMOTIVE TEAM PROVIDING QUALITY WORKMANSHIP

Located in Tahuna, Nelson Brake Services Ltd has been locally owned and operated by Quentin Harwood and Craig Hughes since 1999. With two parts to the business – Nelson Brake Services and Muritai Service Centre – the team are able to offer a variety of services including general garage services and full brake specialisation. Warrants, lubes, tyres repairs, vehicle testing, modifications and tune-ups are all covered by the qualified and experienced mechanics. Their full workshop service includes hose manufacturing, flywheel machining, disc machining, drum machining, rebonding, relining, servo and cycliner overhauling, honing and polishing, resleeving, cable making and brake pipe manufacturing, and they are well experienced in car repairs, maintenance and WOFs for cars, light commercial vehicles, motorcycles and trailers. The company also sells batteries, tyres, brake parts and are the Nelson agents for Exedy clutches.

Quentin says the Nelson Brake Services sales team can assist you in finding the correct products for your motor vehicle, first time, every time. “We offer a full motor vehicle workshop service, our team are qualified and specialise in under car repairs and maintenance. Being ABS Specialists, we are trained in all aspects of brake systems.”

“Whether it is direct replacement or performance, from clutch, to brake and suspension systems, the Nelson Brake Services workshop and sales teams have the experience to provide the right solution and the best repair option for you and your vehicle. We also stock a wide variety of tyres and carry out puncture repairs.”

If your vehicle needs some repair work done, the Nelson Brake Services and Muritai Service Centre team can provide quality parts and workmanship. Open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. Phone 546 4749

LINDA LUCRE Funeral Director

THE COMPLETE COURIER AND FREIGHT SOLUTIONS PROVIDER FOR THE REGION

Celebrating a decade in business in casual style, PACK & SEND Nelson City franchise owners Jo and Bill Lawrence say providing an award-winning service has been a labour of love.

“Thanks to all our customers and carrier partners – ten years has flown by! It takes a lot of hard work and effort to get a business going from scratch,” says Jo. “However, the rewards have been amazing in all regards.

“Our 10-year anniversary is a great time to reflect on all that we’ve achieved and those things that have made us laugh. We’ve got a fair few regular customers that we want to thank for their ongoing support, so we will have some treats to share when we see them over the next week or so.”

“Highlights for us have been some of the amazing people we’ve met and being part of their stories, like being trusted to pack those special family treasures and getting them delivered to all corners of the world or seeing our services supporting other

local businesses in their success.”

Providing the largest range of packaging, courier and freight solutions under the one roof, Jo says their main point of difference is that they will even pack the items before they head out. “Literally, if someone wants to send something, virtually anything, then they should talk to us. It doesn’t matter how large, fragile, valuable or awkward it is, we can offer options and solutions.”

“We love making it simple for our customers. As we cover all the bases from local courier services through to all forms of road freight, international air and sea freight, we get such a buzz being able to help customers solve their dilemma of getting whatever it is they have from point A to point B.”

Ph 03 548 7852 or email nelsoncity@packsend.co.nz

A TRUSTWORTHY AND RELIABLE SERVICE FOR ALL HOME PLUMBING NEEDS

Specialising in all areas of home plumbing services, Todd Russell, owner of Russell’s Plumbing, says there is nothing he cannot tackle within the home plumbing industry. Covering renovation jobs, plumbing maintenance, solar heating, pumps and locating and repairing leaks, Todd also specialises in the upgrading of hot water systems with the installation of outdoor hot water cylinders and califonts. Over one year on from starting the business, Todd says things are going really well. “We have upgraded the business, incorporated a new logo and introduced a new vehicle.”

Passionate about solving challenges, Todd is a fully certified, licenced plumber who offers a friendly, experienced and affordable, flexible service. “Being selfemployed, I have full autonomy over my business. With most big companies they will send a worker to jobsite, whereas it is just me, it allows a more personalised experience.” Trustworthy, reliable and a stickler for being on time, Todd takes real

pride in every job and detail. “Regarding the removal and replacement process of old, dated hot water cylinders, the old one can be removed and a new one installed outside, saving on cupboard space. Installing outdoor hot water cylinders or califonts can be a great option for better utilising the space within your home, upgrading the entire hot water system and futureproofing your house.” If a client is looking at purchasing a property, Todd offers thorough plumbing inspection reports prior to possession. “I will spend time going through the crawl spaces to ensure the property is sound – from a plumbing perspective.” Family owned and operated, no job is too big or small and Russell’s Plumbing covers a vast area of the Top of the South region. For all of your home plumbing requirements, and for prompt and friendly service, give Todd Russell a call.

028 418 4633 or email todd@russellsplumbing.co.nz

SIMPLY RESPECTFUL. SIMPLY AFFORDABLE

Simplicity Funerals offer a professional and respectful service, provided by experienced and fully-qualified staff. Every service is different and with the knowledge and extensive experience in helping families from various cultural and religious backgrounds our funeral directors can arrange a memorable service of celebration to honour the life of your loved one. We work closely with our families and provide gentle guidance at a time when it is needed most.

Whether you need to arrange a funeral for a loved one, or you are trying to take the burden of arranging your own funeral from someone else, we are here to guide you through the arrangements whilst respecting your wishes every step of the way.

Simplicity is for everyone – we know it doesn’t have to cost the earth to mean the world. Our services mean you can say goodbye on your terms, because simplicity means living (and dying) within your means. We always provide the most

respectful and affordable option that suits your needs.

Peace of mind – we are also members of the Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand. This means that you have peace of mind that we are upholding a strong standard of code and ethical principles consistent on a national level.

Plan ahead today – for peace of mind tomorrow. Planning in advance can make a difficult time easier for your family. While a major life change may prompt you to begin planning your funeral, it’s never too soon to start thinking about what you want. Simplicity Funerals can supply you with a free preplanning pack to record your personal information and your preferences for your funeral.

Our locations – We can now offer locations in both Nelson and Richmond. Call in to see us at 69 Haven Road, Nelson or 276b (Petrie Car Park), Richmond. (03) 539 0066 or (03) 929 5145 nelson.simplicity.co.nz

Hospital equipment amnesty

Do you have any Nelson or Wairau Hospital equipment that you are no longer needing? A shower stool in your back shed? A raised toilet seat in a hall cupboard? Or even something in the garage - perhaps a walking frame that’s now home to a spider?

If hospital equipment has served its purpose in helping you or a loved one, please return it so the equipment can go on helping more people. On average, 350 items leave the Nelson Hospital store every week, so getting items back that are no longer in use is very important.

You can identify equipment as belonging to the hospital if it has a grey barcode sticker with hospital identification on it. Monday to Friday, drop it by:

Nelson

The Allied Health Store, Motueka Street, next to Taylor’s Laundry 8am to 4:30pm

Takaka

Golden Bay Community Health, 10 Central Street

8:30am to 5pm

Motueka

Motueka Health Centre, 15 Courtney Street

8am to 4:30pm

Blenheim

Taylor Pass Road, southern entrance to the hospital via the service entrance 8am to 2:30pm

We’ll clean it, check it for health and safety criteria, and reissue it to another patient in need.

We really appreciate your assistance in helping us help others.

Many thanks from the Occupational Therapists and the Physiotherapists of Te Whatu Ora Nelson Marlborough.

Hassle Free Property Management

At 100% Property Management, we're excited to announce the latest addition to our team - Ginnette Smythe! Since 2015, Ginnette has thrived in the fast-paced world of property management in her hometown, building a reputation for exceptional customer service and the ability to develop lifelong business relationships. But Ginnette isn't the only reason to choose 100% Property Management. We take pride in providing a comprehensive service that covers everything from sourcing new tenants through stringent processes, to looking after the tenancy (including managing all maintenance issues, rental collection, and legislative compliance), and dealing with the end of tenancy terms. Our service allows you to sit back and watch your rental returns come in - hassle-free.

What sets us apart is our commitment to understanding the considerable value of the assets we manage. We are professional and experienced property owners ourselves, so we know and understand your needs. With multiple locations across the top of the South Island and the West Coast, we provide you with a single point of contact, so you only have to deal with one property manager. However, they have the strength of an entire team behind them including a specialist letting team, an

accounts team and credit controller, a general manager overseeing the team and compliance, and an admin team. Therefore, you can rest assured that you're in the right hands.

And with Ginnette on board, we're even better equipped to provide the exceptional service and customer-focused approach that we're known for. When she's not managing properties and building relationships with clients, she's out and about enjoying all that our beautiful region has to offer. Whether she's out walking her dog, taking to the water, practicing yoga, or socializing with friends and family, Ginnette always finds time to make the most of our stunning surroundings.

So, if you're looking for a dedicated property manager who understands the value of the assets they manage, look no further than 100% Property Management - and be sure to say hello to Ginnette when you drop by our Richmond office!

For a Free Rental Appraisal, contact Georgia Rose: 0272046591 georgia.rose@raywhite.com

Giants stumble in season opener

JACK MALCOLM

The NBS Nelson Giants have started their season with a tough home loss to the Auckland Tuatara, 86-91.

With the top two teams from the 2022 regular season, it was set to be fireworks from the outset for the sold-out crowd at Trafalgar Centre, and they were not disappointed.

With some early nerves in their first game back for the year, the Giants trailed by two at the first break, having been behind for most of the quarter.

Early foul trouble plagued them throughout the game, with several quarters seeing the Tuatara go to the line for bonus free-throws after the Giants used up their five fouls early.

With them all gone in the opening five minutes, Auckland was sent to the free-throw line nine times in the first quarter.

Ten Giants players got minutes in the opening 10, with coach Mike Fitchett looking to share the duty

between his team.

Both imports, Avery Woodson and Matur Maker, had a muted impact on the opening quarter, taking a more quiet but effective role to their work rate.

They improved as the game played out, with Matur having a team-high 20-point performance and Avery having 14 points.

Just before halftime, the deficit had ballooned to over 10 points, with the shooting efficiency dropping as the Giants took some forced contested shots while Auckland found more fruitful avenues of attack, like a weak underside.

Whatever the message was at halftime, it sunk in, as the Giants were a markedly different team after the break, with more meaning in their offence.

They were rewarded by strong ball movement with better shot options and clawed back the deficit to see the game even up by the end of three-quarter time.

The last 10 minutes were allor-nothing as the home crowd

looked to be the point of difference, with nothing separating the two teams through the first half hour of play.

Unfortunately for the home side, they weren’t able to walk away

with the win despite their best efforts.

Captain Sam Dempster had another stand-out game, coming into his 16th season with the team, with a double-double of 10

rebounds and 13 points. However, the Nelson Giants were also let down by their shooting accuracy, with only 29 of 71 shots being made.

They would finish the game with 11 more attempts than Auckland, who also benefited from 37 visits to the free-throw line compared to the Giants’ 19.

Coach Mike Fitchett says that despite that, sometimes the stats don’t show the full picture of the game.

“I’ll give a little credit to the Auckland defence too. It was solid team defence and they weren’t giving us good looks at shots. “It’s better than a turnover, but something for us to work on.” He says, while they had good patche there were also some inconsistencies that they’ll look to clean up. “Sometimes we looked really good and moved the ball well, but there were some stagnant and stuck-in-the-mud patches. Overall, it’s disappointing to lose, but there’s enough to be positive about.”

Giants import Matur Maker had a team-high 20 points and nine assists as he fought hard to keep his team in the game down the stretch. Photo: Evan Barnes/Shuttersport.

Premier rugby season starts with a bang

JACK MALCOLM

Premier rugby kicked off on Thursday night as local teams rejoined the race for the Tasman Trophy for 2023.

With Wanderers not posting a premier-grade team, Stoke had a bye to start their season, while runners-up Kahurangi put on a 40-19 win over Waimea Old Boys at Jubilee Park. At Trafalgar Park, it was Marist who came out firing under the lights with a 46-13 win over Nelson, while over the hill Central kicked off their defence of the Tasman Trophy with a 41-17 win over Moutere.

Despite the scoreline, it was a marked improvement for Nelson from their performances last season.

They started the scoring with a penalty less than two minutes into the game, before Marist answered back with their first try of the season to flanker Simione Ofa as they made a linebreak with a probing run from halfback Wil Thornalley. The lapse in defence was just one of a few for the Nelson side, who defended with passion through the first half despite having their backs up against the line.

When they did have the ball, they weren’t afraid to run with it as they looked to take it from inside their goal line and, with multiple ‘tap and gos’, from within their own 22. That pressure saw them retake the lead with two back-to-back tries, with the latter being just before the half time break.

Marist, not to rest on the pressure they had put on, scored after the hooter to take a lead into the sheds.

They had the lion’s share of possession and territory through the

first half and were rewarded with hooker Dylan Irvine scoring the try as they punished Nelson for losing the ball within their own 22.

The second 40 was all Marist as they held Nelson scoreless while piling on six tries of their own.

The final try, a 75-metre intercept runaway to winger Timoci Sauira, capped off what was a fantastic start for the home side.

Nelson head coach Gary Stevens says he was happy with how the team fronted up for their first game.

“It was a proud effort and we were competitive right throughout.

“A lot of their tries came from our errors, and if we tidy up that part we’ll be happy.”

He says it’s taxing to be stuck defending, but when they did have the ball they looked good.

“We didn’t get a lot of possession in the second half, but when we did, we played well.”

With a number of players on the injury list, he expects the team to only go from strength to strength in the coming weeks.

Marist coach Seta Sauira’s first words was it could have been a better performance.

“The ball can move a little bit more.

“There was a bit of excitement with the first game back. The boys just want a crack and we’re happy to give it to them.”

He says it’s a great start to the season and he hoped the home crowd, who were much more vocal for Marist throughout, was entertained with their performance.

“It’s exactly what we want to bring. We want to play more exciting footy and for the boys to show their talent and their skills.”

Marist flanker Roko Onolevu dives for the line as Nelson hold on by the finger nails to stop him from scoring. Photo: Evan Barnes/Shuttersport.

Suburbs women continue hot start

Nelson Suburbs women’s team have continued their hot start to the South Island Qualifying League with another win. Both local teams were in action on Easter Friday, with the women taking down Selwyn UFC Women in a 4-1 away win, while

the men drew with Ferrymead Bays 1-1.

Despite playing against a team ‘parking-the-bus’ and taking time to adjust to the turf, it took just four minutes for the women to get their names on the board with a header from Jasmine Barney.

Wanting to play positive foot-

ball and score goals, the visitors found themselves frustrated against the nagging defence but were able to regroup at halftime.

Coach Neil Harding says he was happy with how the girls responded to get such a strong win.

“After a good talk and few changes at half time we went into the

SUPER RUGBY TIPPING

second half confident and strong and the girls played well to win 4-1.”

The highlight of the game came in the 67th minute as the floodgates started to open and Jasmine scored her second, ‘a screamer’, says Neil.

Jasmine’s goal came just five minutes after Ruby Smith had slotted one into the bottom corner, with Tessa Hyland sealing the victory with a 78th-minute goal. Having formed this season, the women’s team have started their competition strongly with back-

to-back wins as the competition’s front runners are found, with Cashmere Technical putting up a 12-0 win over Selwyn to start their campaign following a first-week bye. Neil says they are already looking forward to next weekend when they return home for a game against Coastal Spirit at Saxton Field.

In the men’s campaign, Suburbs were unlucky in not coming away with the three-points for a win after a late goal sealed a 1-1 draw. After three matches, they sit eighth on the competition leaderboard.

The Suburbs women and Katie Pugh (pictured) have run away to a hot start in the women’s qualifying league with two wins to start their season.

Photo: Evan Barnes/ Shuttersport.

Community Notices

MONDAY

ME/CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome)+FM (Fibromyalgia) get-together Mon, 17 Apr. 2-3pm. Broccoli Row, Collingwood St. Nelson Bays ME/CFS FM Support group. Ph: 035468485 or strengthtogethernelson@gmail.com

COMMUNITY GARDEN WORKING BEES Mon, 1-2pm. Victory Community Centre. Regular free working bees. Learn from other experienced gardeners. A dedicated team of volunteers are making the garden into a beautiful and productive space. Ph: Nadia 035468389 or kai@victorycommunity.org.nz.

INTRODUCTION TO ZEN BUDDHISM Beginner Instruction available Mon evenings at our Nelson Centre. Learn how to meditate the Zen way. Ph: Gwitha, 0211218133 for information. Mountains and Rivers Affiliate Nelson.

TUESDAY

STOKE CENTRAL COMBINED PROBUS Tues 18 Apr, 10am. Stoke Methodist Church Hall, 94 Neale Ave. Interesting speakers, outings and lunches. Ph: Rosemary, 039706872.

WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ Tues, 18 Apr, 10-11.30am. McCashins, Stoke. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities, and services. www.wellby. org.nz. Ph: 035467681.

NZ CHRISTIAN WRITERS NELSON GROUP. Tues 18 Apr, 1-4pm. Richmond Baptist Church Lounge. Open to writers at all stages from wanna-be writers to published authors of all ages and whatever genre you use. For info Ph: Kay 0275476777 or kaypeterson4@xtra.co.nz.

NELSON 50+ WALKING. GROUP Tues 18 Apr. 9.45am. Wakefield Wander. Meet at the corner of Bird Lane & Higgins Road, Wakefield. BYO lunch. Ph: Juanita 0272437554.

STOKE TAHUNANUI MEN’S CLUB welcomes new members. Meeting 3rd Tues of the month, 10am. Reformed Church, Enner Glynn with guest speaker. Regular outings and activities. Ph: Ian 0211482580.

WEDNESDAY

YOU’RE INVITED - Beginner Bridge lessons. Start Wed, 12 April, 7pm. Nelson Bridge Club. To book Ph: 035481999. E: contact@nelsonbridge.co.nz. First “taster” session FREE.

WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ Wed, 19 Apr, 10-11.30am. Motueka Library. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities, and services. www.wellby. org.nz. Ph: 035467681.

CAKE DECORATORS Wed, 19 Apr. We are creating bees, beehive, honey pot and mini flowers using sugar paste. All are welcome to join. Ph: Desiree 0276302359.

STOKE TAHUNANUI LADIES’ REBUS CLUB welcomes new ladies to come along and enjoy fun fellowship and friendship.

3rd Wed of the month, 9.45am, Nelson Golf Club Bolt Rd. Ph: Diane 035476331.

POP UP PSYCHODRAMA Wed, 19 Apr, 7-9.30pm. 3rd Wed of the Month. Victory Community Centre. Come along and experience this lively spontaneous method exploring personal, political and community issues. Increase your spontaneity and find new ways to respond to old situations in your life. Led by an experienced psychodrama practitioner. No acting experience required! Ph: Ali 0272765992 for more information. COST: Koha

RADIO CONTROL SAILING at Best Island on Wed and Sun, weather permitting, usually 1pm onwards. IOMs and Dragon Force etc. New Members welcome. Ph: Peter 027 544 3923 for information and times.

MASSAGE THERAPY Wed, 9 -12pm. Victory Community Centre. Remedial massage is used to relieve tension in specific muscles that have built up due to injury or stress & may be causing pain & dysfunction. Contact us to make an appointment. Times available 9-9.45am, 10.30-11.15am. Cost: Sliding Scale - $5$40.

THURSDAY

TAI CHI FOR BEGINNERS Thurs, 6 Apr-25 May. 7-8pm. Victory

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY 50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: myevent@nelsonweekly.co.nz

Community Centre. Join Jingjing from the Healing Hut for this gentle form of exercise that can help maintain strength, flexibility, and balance. It could be the perfect activity for the rest of your life. Ph: 0274348586 to register. COST: $50 for 8 weeks.

WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ: Thurs, 13 Apr. 1.30-3pm. Nightingale Library, Tāhunanui. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities, and services. www.wellby.org.nz or Ph: 035467681.

GRIEF SHARE COURSE 13-week course starts, Thurs 13 April. 7-9pm. Side Room, Richmond New Life Church. 85 Wensley Rd, Richmond. Help and encouragement after the death of a spouse, child, family member, or friend. Txt or Ph: Marcia 0211270001 griefsharenn@gmail.com

THE PROBUS CLUB OF NELSON CITY welcome both men and women. We meet the 2nd Thurs of the month (Feb thru to November), 10 am. The Nelson Golf Club, 38 Bolt Rd, Tāhunanui. E: Secretary on nelsoncitygroupgmail.com.

OFF YOUR ROCKERS CHOIR Thurs, 2pm. Baptist Church Hall, Bridge St. Invites new singers and instrumentalists, 60 plus, to join our fun choir. No auditions. Further information Ph: Jan 035450434.

FITNESS & FRESH AIR FREE supervised exercise sessions for seniors. Mon Saxton & Thurs Tāhunanui, 12pm. 30 mins walk & learn to use the outdoor exercise equipment safely. Ph: Ange 021790415

FRIDAY

WAITAKI OLD GIRLS' social group nelson. Pop in for a coffee and chat, Fri 14 Apr, 10am. Cafe Alioke Eatery, 4a Central Park Lane, The Meadows. All Oamaruians welcome. Queries Ph: 0276731145.

STOKE SENIOR CITIZENS is a Friendship Club accepting all INDOOR BOWLING beginners and players. Mon and Fri 1:303:30pm. An annual $5 subscription and a $2 mat fee covers costs levied for the afternoon. Mats and bowls are provided by the club. Ph: 035479814 or 035473052.

AIKIDO Want to learn self-defence and become more confident? Do AIKIDO Japanese Martial Art. We have children’s classes from 8 -16yrs Wed & Fri 5pm – 6pm. Check out www. aikidonelson.nz or Ph: Callum 0210694211.

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

BREASTFEEDING/INFANT FEEDING; join us at the Big Latch

On. Sat 15 Apr, 1-4 pm. Victory Community Centre. Fun and informative afternoon, free afternoon tea, spot prizes and more, all welcome. Ph: Ruth 0272433469.

QUALITY CRAFTS NELSON Sat 15 Apr, 8am-noon. Church Lounge at RBC, 123 Salibury Rd. Come and check out our wide selection of quality local handmade crafts with something for everyone and Mother’s Day is coming! Ph Kay 0275476777 for info.

HIGGINS HERITAGE PARK Sun 16 Apr, 10-3pm. 222 Pigeon Valley Rd, Wakefield. Park open day with museum sheds open and bus & jigger rides. A great place for a picnic www.higginsheritagepark.co.nz.

WAIMEA TRAMPING CLUB 50-Year Anniversary. Sat, 29 Apr. Easy local tramp in the morning, celebration dinner in the evening. Current and previous members welcome. For more info or to register by 16 April. E: wtc.richmond@gmail.com or Ph: 0212671298.

GENERAL GROUPS

COMPLETE HEALTH IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMME (CHIP).

A lifestyle medicine programme focused on exercise, eating, stress, rest & sleep. For more info come to the free information sessions at Putangitangi (Greenmeadows Centre) cnr Main Rd & Songer St, Stoke. 2 Sessions available Sun 30, April, 7pm. Tues 2 May, 7pm.

POPPY DAY - Fri, 21 Apr. Nelson RSA would appreciate help in manning collection tables on the day. Poppies both red and purple will be supplied for kind donations. People wear the poppy to remember those who died serving their country. If

you can assist, please call into the office in the Stoke Community Centre between 9-12pm Mon to Thurs or Ph: 032656513.

THE SUTTER ART SOCIETY autumn exhibition. 29 Mar – 16 Apr. 9.30-4.30pm daily. Featuring guest artist Angela Maritz and showing the works of local members.

FREE FUNCTION ROOM HIRE to all community groups. Avail 7 days. Wakatu Hotel 83 Collingwood St. Craig 035484299.

EVER THOUGHT OF BECOMING A VOLUNTEER? Are you a community organisation looking for volunteers, training, info, or advice? Check out our website www.volunteernelson. org.nz Ph: 035467681.

BLOOD CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meet monthly for more information Ph: Heather 0274444708.

NELSON TASMAN HOSPICE Need volunteers to help in Nelson, Richmond, Motueka and Takaka Hospice Shops. Volunteering is a great chance to meet new people, gain new skills and help your Hospice. Morning or afternoon availability appreciated. Ph: 035463912 or E: Krisca.gould@ nelsonhospice.org.nz

GROW Needing help. Use a Program and Method. We are here for your mental health. Ph: Patricia 035476120. Koha appreciated.

COMMUNITY 8’S ROWING Come alone, with friends or bring an entire crew and give rowing a try with Nelson Rowing Club. We provide coaching and equipment while you put in the mahi over four weeks culminating in our community race series in early May. More info E: suzanne.hannen@xtra.co.nz.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for our day programmes for the elderly. Serve refreshments, join in singing, games, chat or assist on vans. Ph: Maaike 032655224, E: maaikef@psusi.org.nz.

NELSON HINEMOA CROQUET CLUB Saltwater Lane (off Halifax St, beside squash & tennis courts). Give Croquet a Go: Friendly supportive club, for competition or just fun. Coaching and equipment available. Individuals or groups catered for. Ph: Nettie 035488432 / 0276828168 nettiebarrow@ gmail.com

Community notices are free to community groups, schools, churches, gold coin donation events and fundraising only. For classified ads and public notices please call 548 5900 Due to the popularity of this column, while every effort will be made, inclusion cannot be guaranteed for free ads.

Clues

2

7

Puzzle 2443 © Gemini Crosswords 2012 All rights reserved

PLANNED POWER OUTAGES

Every week, Network Tasman is carrying out planned maintenance somewhere on the power line network. This requires us temporarily turning the power off to some houses or businesses.

CLASSIFIED

We let your electricity retailer know well in advance when a power outage caused by planned maintenance is due to happen. They will let you know, usually via email, that your power is going to be turned off while we carry out the work. Sometimes customers phone us after the power has gone off to say they were not notified of a planned power outage. Not knowing about an outage can be hugely disruptive for customers, which is not what we want. We want you to know in advance so that you can make plans for the outage.

There can be a number of reasons why you might be unaware that the power will be temporarily turned off for maintenance work, but there are some things you can do to make sure you get planned outage notifications:

Î Check the contact details that your electricity retailer has for you, and make sure they are correct.

Î Check your email settings to make sure emails from your electricity retailer don’t accidentally end up in your ‘junk’ folder or somewhere else that you don’t usually look.

Î If you are not the electricity account holder, make sure the person or company who is, knows to pass outage notifications on to you. For example, if you are a tenant and the landlord gets the power bill, the landlord will get the outage notification, not you.

Î Ask your electricity retailer how they let you know about planned power outages, and think about whether this will be okay for you.

Î Some electricity retailers can provide outage notification by text message. If you want this, ask your retailer if they can do it for you.

Î Keep an eye out for more than one outage notification from your electricity retailer. Sometimes we need to have two or more outages in the same area to get the work done. Each outage is notified separately by your electricity retailer.

Contact your electricity retailer if you want to know more about how they notify customers of planned outages.

If you want to know more about how Network Tasman plans maintenance work, get in touch with us at info@networktasman.co.nz

SITUATIONS VACANT

Advertise your situations vacant here. Ph 548 5900

BIRTH

Your announcement here for FREE

We are looking for individuals or groups to deliver our award winning newspapers. Our runs can be done individually or shared amongst a group , as the famous saying goes. “Many hands make light work” For further details please email: deliveries@thedeliveryguy.co.nz

It’s all on the app. Are you?

The Nelson App has been the go-to place for the latest news and sport since 2017.

Every day tens of thousands of Nelsonians open the app to stay informed about what's happening in our region. But it isn't just news on the app, it features up-coming events, funeral notices, the latest property for sale, flight information, places to eat and drink, local businesses, weather and tide reports, a TV guide and much more. So, next time you open the around, you might be surprised what you find.

• NEWS

• PROPERTY

• SPORTS

• RURAL

• LIFESTYLE

• FLIGHTS

• DINING

• TIDES

• WEATHER

• GEONET

• TO DO

• FUNERALS

• JOBS

• OUTAGES