The Guardian - 12 June 2024

Wednesday 12 June 2024

Vanuatu referendum sees Motueka turn-out

ELISE VOLLWEILER

Vanuatu’s recent referendum was an important first for the country, and Motueka was one of only five places in New Zealand to host a polling station for the historic event.

More than 350 ni-Vanuatu people turned up to vote at the Whakarewa St polling station between Friday, 31 May and Sunday, 2 June, coming from as far as Tapawera, Brightwater and Richmond to add their vote.

The first voters were an eager

GORDON PREECE

With a fire at a Nelson house last week linked to disposal of “several days old” ash, local firefighters are dishing out the goods to keep homes safe this winter. Household wood burners are getting more attention to trounce the cold, however, every year Nelson Tasman crews discover house fires were ignited by incorrectly disposed ash, and the trend heats up in the winter months. The most recent case was the Nelson South garage fire on Friday, 7 June, which FENZ Top of the South community risk manager, Steve Trigg, says

group from Birdhurst Orchards, says Motueka polling officer Robyn Aburn.

The referendum covered two proposed additions to the constitution, with the aim to increase political stability.

The first article states that any

member of parliament (MP) who resigns or is terminated for ceasing to support a political party will have their seat automatically vacated.

The second states that all MPs must be affiliated to a political party and there can be no single

MP party in parliament.

The articles have already been passed by parliament and the referendum result, not yet released at the time of publication, will dictate whether they come into

Ash bucket supporters from Māpua Volunteer Fire Brigade, Mike Crehan, left, Eileen Thawley, Bill Martin, Aaron Thawley, Nick Poultney, and three-year-old Madison Poultney. Photo: Gordon Preece.

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Vanuatu referendum sees enthusiastic Motueka turn-out

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effect or are rescinded. The referendum occurs after many years of political instability in Vanuatu, causing public discontent. In a comment translated from their native Bislama, one voter stated that it was “good to have a polling station in New Zealand because a lot of the time when seasonal workers travel overseas they hear about political issues back home and they want to exercise their right to vote. Before they had to vote by proxy, but this is much easier”.

Of the five polling stations – the others being in Tepuke, Hastings, Blenheim and Cromwell

– Motueka counted the fourthmost votes. A total of 2590 votes were cast overall, with the five ballot boxes arriving in Vila for counting on Friday, 7 June.

The Vanuatu High Commission offered online thanks to both governments and the electoral commission for supporting Vanuatu in the referendum.

“Thank you to the Electoral Office and Vanuatu government

for giving NZ-based citizens the honour of participating in the first-ever referendum and first-ever elections, in NZ.” Ni-Vanuatu people make up more than 40 per cent of the

country’s recognised seasonal employer (RSE) workers, followed by Samoans and Tongans.

Aldric Bsni casts his vote from Motueka in the historic Vanuatu referendum. Photo: Supplied.

Ash buckets prove hot

FROM PAGE 1

started after “several days old”, undampened ash was disposed in a garden at the Nelson South property.

To reduce the risk, Resene has gifted 1000 metal, non-flammable, and sealable ash buckets to Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough brigades in April, to distribute to their local communities.

Nelson-based Fire and Emergency New Zealand community readiness and recovery advisor, Jess Noone, says Lake Rotoiti Volunteer Fire Brigade were the first to trial ash bucket distribution last year, as part of its community preparedness project.

She says this year’s response to the buckets was illuminating and it had also helped spread local winter fire safety messages.

“When fire ash is cleaned out it is often put in containers that are flammable or in places that are flammable, and the ash is still warm,” she says.

“Along with the ash buckets, we’ve provided some safety information about how to clean out fireplaces, to try and remove the risk of house fires starting due to the incorrect disposal of hot ash.

“The ash buckets have been well received by the community, there are a few key brigades that have done a really great job in spreading the message, Māpua Volunteer Fire Brigade has given away upwards of 200 buckets.”

Jess says the buckets also contain instructions for their use.

“It needs to have a hole in the top to let any heat escape, we’ve predrilled most of them,” she says. “Before they light their fire, we’re asking people to clean the ash out, place it in the bucket, and then fill it with cold water, then place something heavy in the bottom… to stop any chance of it knocking over.

“They pop the lid on seal it up, then we encourage people to place it outside of their home, ideally on a flat surface that’s fire safe… and then leaving it for at least five days before they put it in their compost or rubbish bin.”

Jess says ash can take up to five days to properly cool.

With the distribution now mostly complete, she says she and her colleagues will review the project’s outcomes at the end of winter before deciding whether to spark it up again.

“The district team from Fire and Emergency are thankful for the efforts of our volunteer brigades in distributing the buckets,” she says.

ACT leader defends return of pseudoephedrine products

ELISE VOLLWEILER

ACT leader David Seymour has replied to a request for comment following last week’s story in The Guardian about a robbery at Motueka’s Unichem Pharmacy, targeting pseudoephedrine products.

The break-in was the first in the country following the reintroduction of pseudoephedrine medications for sale.

Seymour had championed their return to shelves, after they were removed in 2011 due to an increase in pharmacy break-ins and ramraids. Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant used in cold and flu medications, but it is also used in the manufacture of methamphetamine.

In his emailed response to The Guardian, Seymour says that pharmacy break-ins are not a new problem.

“For the period 1 May 2023 to 30 April 2024, there was a total of 207 burglaries at locations categorised as a pharmacy.

“This is part of a larger issue of crime, which the Govern-

Repair café for Golden Bay

ment is focused on addressing through its law and order work.

“The answer for preventing crime isn’t preventing people from doing business.

“Pharmacists aren’t obligated to stock the medication,” he says. “We’ve simply removed the red tape and regulation that prevented them from

even having that choice,” he adds.

“Regardless, the drug market has moved on – the reality is that gangs have found other ways of getting methamphetamine, while people miss out on effective cold and flu medication.

“It is not expected that the return of pseudoephedrine

will have a great impact on overall supply and demand,” Seymour says.

“Work is under way to develop electronic recording systems for use across pharmacies and the health sector. This work was already under way when pseudoephedrine was made available to Kiwis again.”

A repair café is coming to Golden Bay with the first event take place at the Mohua Social Services Community Hall on 7 July from 2pm until 5pm. Organiser are hoping this will become a regular event in the bay, with a repair café every two months with it moving around different locations from Tākaka to Collingwood. The project is being run by volunteers and they

are looking for people who can help with hosting an event, as well as skilled repairers. If you’d like to help, contact claire.webster@tasman.govt.nz

Community grants

Community Grant applications are now open until Wednesday 31 July. Funding is available for projects that are either Tasman-based or will benefit Tasman residents. Visit https://bit. ly/3L0Li7d

David Seymour says pharmacy break-ins are not a new problem. Photo: RNZ.

Tākaka turns out to March for Nature

ELISE VOLLWEILER

Across the country, thousands of people turned out to join the March for Nature protests to show their opposition to the Prime Minister’s Fast-Track Approval Bill.

Tākaka was no exception, with an estimated 200 people gathering at the Village Green to add their voices to the protest.

The fast-track bill is designed to speed up the process of consenting major projects, such as transport initiatives and housing developments. Protesters say that they are concerned that this means that these projects will be fast-tracked at the cost of the environment or against expert advice. Some Tākaka residents have expressed concerns online that fast-tracked developments could undermine New Zealand’s largest fresh-water springs, Te Waikoropupū Springs, while others are concerned about the environmental impacts of a proposed

2024 Trustee Election Call for Nominations

A vibrant Tākaka crowd celebrated nature at the anti- fast track bill protest on Saturday.

gold mining project at Sam’s Creek in the Cobb Valley.

Mazarine Fitzgerald, a resident of the Tākaka cohousing neigh-

Network Tasman Trust (the Trust) is administered by six trustees, three that retire by rotation this year. Accordingly, nominations are invited to stand for the role of trustee on the Trust. Candidates must be an electricity consumer residing within the Network Tasman distribution area and be eligible to hold office under the terms of the Trust Deed and Local Electoral Act 2001. The distribution area and copies of the Trust Deed along with nomination information are available on the Network Tasman Limited website https://networktasman.co.nz/trustee-election/

The Trust holds all of the shares in Network Tasman Ltd (the Company) on behalf of its consumers. The Trust’s primary role is to represent the interests of consumers and to ensure an appropriate distribution to those consumers of the benefits of that shareholding. The Trust also appoints the directors of the Company and approves the annual Statement of Corporate Intent. The Trust holds a capital investment fund from which it provides community grants and educational scholarships to those within the network area.

Nomination forms and candidate handbooks are available from the election helpline, ph 0800 666 042, emailing iro@electionz.com or from the Network Tasman Ltd website. Nominations must be received by the independent Returning Officer no later than 12 noon on Friday 12 July 2024.

Anthony Morton Independent Returning Officer

Phone: 0800 666 042 iro@electionz.com

bourhood, joined the march because she says that people there

“really nurture our nature”.

“The turnout was great, includ-

ing many young people, and the atmosphere was vibrant with drums, chanting, and singing,” she says. “The event highlighted

the impactful power of collective action. Let’s keep the gold in Golden Bay! We want a better path, not a faster track.”

Photo: Mazarine Fitzgerald.

Motueka’s Toni Evans paused beside the Motueka Aerodrome as she was returning home from an early hospitality shift on Monday morning to snap this photo. It had rained all day and night on Sunday, and early-birds were rewarded with this broad rainbow when the sun made an appearance the following morning. Photo: Toni Evans.

Forty-year Steiner education achieved

GORDON PREECE

A local woman’s house and a once derelict pioneer hall in a Riwaka sheep paddock have provided bases for Motueka’s Steiner education during its 40-year history in the town.

Jubilations were held last week to mark four decades since a group of parents formed a committee to assign to Motueka the Rudolf Steiner education philosophy, which believes that young children learn with their heads, hearts, and hands.

The results saw the opening of Motueka Steiner Kindergarten in 1984, and Motueka Steiner School followed in 2002.

One of the school’s inaugural teachers Avril Nicoll says once the committee for this new educational approach in Motueka was formed in late 1983, one of its members, Yvonne Vincent stepped in to be one of the founding teachers.

The following year, the Motueka Rudolf Steiner School Trust deed was signed, and the first preschoolers entered the inaugural Motueka Steiner Kindergarten site at her Riverside Community abode.

“It was quite inspiring, a little

Kindergarten staff Tani Barrow, Ann Rogers, Amy Weber, Sarah Richards and Akane Partridge. Photo: Supplied.

group there with no money really, and thought ‘I guess we’ll start a kindergarten’,” Avril says.

“The Rudolf Steiner education allows children to develop slowly, and it’s something that once parents understood they became quite passionate about it, and that’s what inspired them to work to create it.

“Many of those people in the early years had incredible dedication, kindergarten teachers that worked more than 17 years, and this provided an enormous stability.”

Avril says in 1985, the founders discovered a pioneer hall sitting in a Riwaka sheep paddock and after negotiating with its trustees

to rent it, they set about renovating it with doors, a garden, and a “delightful little kitchen”.

Twelve students attended the kindergarten upon opening at the hall site, and it began to run three sessions weekly.

Six years later, the roll growth provoked a larger site and, in 1991, the kindergarten’s Wallace

St site opened.

The kindergarten opened a second site at a former vet clinic building on the same street in 2009.

Avril says the founders also had a penchant for creating a primary school, which came to fruition in 2002 when Motueka Steiner School opened on Tudor St before moving to High St two years later. In 2015, Robinson Rd farmland in Lower Moutere was purchased for an integrated facility so both institutions could be closer together. It opened in 2021, and 31 kindergartners and 100 school pupils are currently enrolled. Celebrations to mark the 40th anniversary were held at the school grounds on 5 June with preschoolers, students and staff, and a second celebration was held at the Riverside Hall on 8 June for parents, and former staff and preschoolers.

Avril says she also coordinated a book for the occasion, titled, Growing a School, which tells the different stories of those who had been involved in Motueka’s Steiner education

“I felt that these early parents planted a tiny seed which slowly grew, and it’s looking pretty good now.”

The Motueka district primary school cross country was held last Friday, with students travelling from as far as Murchison and Tapawera to enter the race. Motueka’s primary schools were also well represented, with some bringing 30 or more of the fastest runners across all year groups. The track wound across a dirt and sand track, with runners weaving through trees and negotiating uneven ground in their two-lap course. The top competitors from each age group will have the opportunity to move on to the regional competitions, to be held later this month. Photos: Elise Vollweiler.

1: Year 8 girls spring from the starting line.

2: Mahana School students took part in the Moutere Hills cross country last week.

3: Lower Moutere School’s Hunter Ferrer keeps ahead of Brooklyn’s Nakau Cullen and Ngatimoti School’s Nico Morley-Gray.

4: Tasman School’s Gus Stobie follows Ben Dixon of Tapawera Area School.

Wash Away the Stains

“Poetry is the lifeblood of rebellion, revolution, and the raising of consciousness,” were the words written by American poet and civil rights activist Alice Walker Inspired by the long shadows of Walker’s ideals, Golden Bays poets Emma Callaghan and Mark Raffills join forces to paint, via the spoken word, their own revolution, to name the unnameable and to wash away the stains that blot our social, political and spiritual landscape. They bring their show, Wash Away The Stains, to the Mussel Inn on Thursday, 13 June after first giving it voice at the Nelson Fringe Festival in March.

Representing Golden Bay/Nelson in the NZ National Poetry Slam, Emma made it through to the second round in 2022 and on the way won the ‘Spirit of the Slam’ Award. She placed second overall in 2023. Emma’s poetry captures her experiences as a mixed-race woman of colour living in a divisive world striving for oneness. Her poems speak to white privilege, Afro hair, reggae music and the African diaspora.

“Many would be tempted to tackle topics such as discrimination with anger or frustration,” wrote Wesley Hollis in his review of Wash Away The Stains at the recent Nelson Fringe Festival. “But Emma’s readings are always calm and measured, yet never lacking in passion. Her words are powerful and important.”

Mark Raffills has toured and performed his poems throughout NZ including Waitaki and Nelson Arts Festivals, NZ and Nelson Fringe Festivals, Canterbury Poets Collective and Poetry Live. He has been a finalist in NZ Poetry Slams, self-published three books of poems, while his weekly video poems on Facebook have attracted over 120,000 views in the last few years.

Wesley Hollis, in his review of Wash Away The Stains, notes, “Raffills’ delivery is powerful – he knows how to bring his words to life. He plays with language, using rhyme, alliteration and repetition as well as fascinating combinations of words to tell stories and paint mental pictures.”

“Definitely a tall order, being a poet of the revolution,” notes Mark. “But if we cower in silence

in the face of crimes against humanity, we too will be held accountable for the crimes of those who commit them. Emma and myself, we’re learning to stand against the wind!

“It is a privilege to be joining Emma for this, Golden Bay Live Poets, one night only, Mussel Inn show.”

Wash Away the Stains featuring Emma Callaghan and Mark Raffills, Thursday, 13 June, 7.30pm, Mussel Inn. Tickets $5.

Emma Callaghan and Mark Raffills will perform at the Mussel Inn on Thursday.

Photo: Supplied.

Local History

Motueka’s maternity cottage hospital - Part 2

ROBYN PARKES

Due in part to pressure from the Department of Health, Nelson Hospital Board purchased Nurse Coogan’s Motueka property in October 1922, and the cottage hospital opened in February 1923, with Miss D Warnock appointed matron. Fees were set at £3/3/- a week for maternity cases, £2/2/- a week for waiting time and £2/2/- for ordinary cases. However, it was seriously inconvenienced by a shortage of equipment and water, a problem that continued into late October 1924. By mid-1926 more improvements were needed and, because of ongoing expenses, the Board floated the idea of leasing the hospital and subsidising someone to run it rather than continue to lose £1000 a year. The necessary improvements were completed providing eight beds for patients.

A new wing was added, a nursery, sterilising room, bathroom, drying room, laundry, conveniences for staff, hot water, room for emergency cases and veranda space. The hospital’s maintenance remained a source of contention and, in September 1927, the Chairman of the Board labelled the situation and the hospital as an ‘incubus’ as it was a burden to the ratepayers and taxpayers of Nelson. Between 1924 and 1927 the Board covered capital costs of £3517. Maintenance costs were

£5071 and receipts were £1397, leaving a deficit of £3674. By early 1931, New Zealand was in financial difficulty with a projected national deficit of £4,500,000, requiring cuts in all areas including health. Nelson Board economised by increasing patients’ fees from 9s to 12s per day for all districts, reducing subsidies and closing Motueka’s hospital. The option of leasing was again considered and a lease tender was advertised in June 1931, but none were forthcoming, so

NELSON COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

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the hospital was to be closed at the end of August. The Minister of Health was not in agreeance and instructed the Board to reconsider. Without Ministerial approval, they were forced to continue but with no money, so they called on the Department to cover all expenditure. The Inspector of Hospitals (Dr. Shaw) visited Motueka to meet with the mayor (Mr York), and local representatives. His report went to the Minister of Health, who reiterated the hospital should remain open. The Board informed the Department that if the Government couldn’t guarantee the subsidy to keep it open, the hospital would close in October. The closure was averted. The following year the subject of leasing was again discussed with a plan to lease to an approved person free of cost, with a subsidy of £2OO per annum granted to the lessee to accept

general cases. Fees for patients with an income of up to £5 were fixed by the Board but the lessee could decide fees for those over a £5 income. Miss E. Edwards of Christchurch was successful with her tender and she took over the hospital in October 1932. The arrangement worked well for six years but in June 1938, due to increasing costs and lack of trained nurses, Miss Edwards asked to be released from her contract. Not able to find another lessee, the hospital was closed in October and again the Department of Health advised that Nelson Board should re-open and provide staff. During 1939 there were complaints that the state of the hospital was unsatisfactory, and there were problems with the matron. With her resignation and no nurses available it was closed temporarily in April until staff could be found.

Motueka’s cottage hospital. Photo: Supplied

Help your school sport $10k

Nelson Tasman residents are being asked to back their local schools in a chance to nab a share of $15,000 in sporting equipment.

Richmond Mall this week launched a campaign allowing shoppers to vote for which school they would like to take home the top prize.

Richmond Mall manager Belinda de Clercq says they felt like the time was right to get behind the community with an engagement activity, but struggled to choose between so many deserving charities.

“In the end, we decided the schools are a good match for us. We have strong support for schools education, and sport.”

Originally aiming to target eight-10 schools, they reached out to those on their doorstep.

Some decided they already had enough sports equipment and wanted to see other schools benefit instead. For others, it wasn’t the right time, so the net was cast wider to include schools in Nelson and further afield in Tasman.

“We got to 13 confirmed and decided ‘yes’, we can manage that number,” Belinda says, taking into account that all of the data has to be managed manually.

So on Monday, 13 boxes were erected opposite Whitcoulls in the Mall.

To give your chosen school a chance to win, all you have to do is drop your receipt from a Richmond Mall

store in their box. Or fill out the entry form in The Guardian. Stickers from Luv’ya apples also earns a point for every six stickers collected, or one point from a logo cut out from the plastic apple bag.

Belinda says there is no minimum spend amount, and all stores in the mall are involved, including PAK’nSAVE.

The winner will be the one who receives the higest dollar value, calculated based on the school’s current role, so even the smallest school is in with an equal chance.

The top three of 13 school’s will win $10k, $3k and $2k respectively to spend on sporting goods for their kura.

“Vote for any school, it could be your neighbour’s kids’ school, or maybe, if your school isn’t participating this time, adopt a school and support them and hopefully next time round they can do the same for you.”

Belinda says sponsors Waimea Weekly, More FM, Luv’ya Apples and Tinline all need a special mention for making the competition possible. The competition runs until July 22 with winners contacted around 1 August.

Participating schools are: Māpua, Ranzau, Lower Moutere, Hope, Appleby, Brightwater, Henley, Waimea Intermediate, Saint Paul’s Catholic, Birchwood, Brooklyn, Nelson Intermediate and St. Joseph’s School.

SUPPORT YOUR SCHOOL

Liz

Nicole

Tina

Officer assaulted as he stopped woman from walking into rescue chopper’s blades

TRACY NEAL

Open Justice Reporter

A woman with a history of assaulting police personnel has been sentenced to supervision after she kicked and punched a constable as he stopped her from walking into the path of the spinning rotors of a rescue helicopter.

The helicopter had been called to Golden Bay to fly her to Nelson Hospital. Aikiko Minematsu was warned by the police last October regarding her assaulting them, then added a doctor to the list of her victims.

The 51-year-old, who lived in Golden Bay, admitted charges in the Nelson District Court on Monday of assaulting a police officer with intent to obstruct him and assaulting a doctor who was attending her.

On the evening of May 2 this year, Minematsu was taken by an ambulance to the Golden Bay Community Health Centre. The reason for this was suppressed on mental health grounds. Minematsu lay unresponsive in the back of the ambulance while the crew dis-

cussed calling a helicopter to take her to hospital.

According to the police summary of facts, Minematsu “suddenly leapt up”, ran to the ambulance door and started kicking it, demanding to be let out. The ambulance crew let her out and she lay on the ground in the ambulance bay of the health centre as attending staff comforted her and draped a blanket over her.

The doctor she asked for was a short distance away, and as he was pointed out, Minematsu got up, ran straight towards him and tried to punch him.

She missed as the doctor ducked to avoid her, but she then kicked him and scratched his hands, causing one of them to bleed. As the doctor defended himself in the struggle, his gown was ripped from his waist to his armpit.

The police were then called and arrived at the same time as the rescue helicopter.

Minematsu was sitting in a chair, not moving, but suddenly got up and tried to escape by walking rapidly towards the helicopter that had just landed

on a nearby road.

Emergency services asked her to stop, but she refused and continued walking away at speed. The attending senior constable had to grab her arm to stop her from walking into the spinning rotor blades. She then turned and kicked the officer twice in the leg before punching him in the chest. She was then arrested, but continued assaulting the officer and tried to bite his arm.

Minematsu was later flown to Nelson Hospital.

Judge Tony Zohrab noted her lack of a previous criminal record but added the events had been “incredibly upsetting and disturbing” for all.

He said, in sentencing Minematsu to nine months of supervision and a requirement to undertake counselling and treatment as required, if she continued to assault people trying to help her, a firmer approach would come next.

Remember to register your dog by 30 June

If you have a dog aged three months or older it must be registered and microchipped.*

Current registered dog owners will have received their registration letter by email or in the post by now. You can register your dog in person, by mail to any Council service centre, or you can pay online. If you have not received your letter, please contact the Council on 03 543 8400.

The fee for dogs that have not been registered by 31 July will increase by 50% on top of the standard fee.

This year fees are $65 for a dog on a property under 1 hectare (urban), and $45 if your property is over 1 hectare (rural).

Free microchipping sessions

Tasman District Council is offering free microchipping for dogs registered in Tasman that are younger than six months old.

Sessions from 9.00 am – 10.00 am on Fridays at the Richmond Dog Pound, 121 Beach Road, Richmond. Please phone 03 544 3207 to make an appointment.

* Working dogs are exempt from microchipping For

A big hello from the team at your local Bowater Toyota. We pride ourselves on going the extra mile and getting stuck in when it comes to making sure that the whole community is taken care of with all of their mobility needs. Our team here at our Motueka store on High Street can take care of everything, from sales through to serving all makes and models. We even have a brake disc machining tool in-house to keep everything just as it needs to be. Our workshop has state of the art diagnostic tools to make sure your vehicle is kept in the best condition, and our experienced technicians can get the job done efficiently. Give our locally based Craig Allott a call on 021 987 265 the next time you need to upgrade your vehicle. New or used, he’s your man, and can source you the perfect vehicle for your needs.

Tākaka ambo pulses honour

Congratulations! Thanks for your dedication to this work.

Janine Hannan

That’s a fantastic honour, well deserved Joan, congratulations.

Alan Bradnock

Superb service to the community... Thank you.

Heather McQuoid

Well-deserved Joan, thank you!

Jenny Pomeroy

Congratulations, Joan. So well deserved. What an asset to the community you are Cindy Milne

So pleased that this is finally happening, and she has got the recognition she deserves. Joan is an incredible person with a heart of gold.

Rebekah Vincent

Veteran honoured with King’s Service medal

Congratulations Trevor. Well deserved. Thank you for doing so much for the community.

Janette Wilcox

Congratulations Trevor you certain-

ly deserve this honor I worked at Elmswood when you were there with your wife Suzanne wonderful times it was a pleasure to work for you both

Diane Billing

Trevor, you are an absolute legend and so worthy of this. I remember meeting you for the first time and being blown away by your “can do anything” attitude! So many people, especially kids, have benefited from your hard work and generosity. What a lucky town we are to

have you. Well done from me and Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Cushla Duncan

Cat on board, dog in tow

Good on you mate. Love it.

Christine Brown

That’s so beautiful.

Julz Cotton

Fire chief passes the torch

You’re a LEGEND, Graham.

Mandy McNab

Thanks for all your service, Graham.

Jenni McEntee

How awesome and super proud how you feel Graham celebrating with your children, family & friends. Special moments LEGEND.

Suz Peek

Long-time Lion insists strength comes from the pack

Fantastic so well deserved a wonderful person glad he has been recoginized.

Jean Southward

STREET TALK

Matt Galvin (Licensed Sales Person REAA 2008) M 027 768 6288 E matt.galvin@bayleys.co.nz

Trindi Walker

“Photography, capturing the snowcapped mountains, the frosts, and the beautiful mist of the change of colour of seasons.”

Rachael Fraine

“Supporting my son who plays for Nelson College: U17

WHAT’S HAPPENING atourlibrary

Te Noninga Kumu - 32 Wallace St - 03 528 1047

Wriggle & Rhyme – Mondays during Term time, 10.30am-11am

Join us for active movement and music for growing Tamariki. Recommended for infants to 2 years, siblings welcome.

Storytime – Thursdays, 10am-10.30am

Songs and play for ages 2-5 years, siblings welcome.

Paper Artsy – Thursday 13 June, 1.30pm-3.30pm

Join a friendly group to make cards, bookmarks, journals with decorative papers. All materials supplied.

BookCafe – Monday 17 June, 10.30am12pm

Join a sociable group to discuss topics and share books.

Stitch Bloom Embroidery Group –Monday 17 June, 1.30pm-3pm

Come along and add your embroidery stitches to this beautiful project.

Crochet group – Tuesday 18 June, 1pm3pm

Bring your crochet project and join in welcoming company.

Wellby Talking Café – Wednesday 19 June, 10.30am-12pm

Join in and meet friendly people for a cuppa and chat. Learn about the Found Directory. New comers to town welcome.

Matariki Harakeke Star weaving with Wai Samson (Nan) - Wednesday 19 June, 9.30am-11.30am

Come and learn how to weave a star with flax.

Dear diary, here’s to the 7-day weekend

Love the choice.

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At Summerset, it’s your choice. From day to day, you have the freedom to pursue all your passions and hobbies, or just find a place to relax. All set within a secure, warm and friendly community.

Plus, don’t forget to ask about our Moving Made Easy offer, which includes $2,000 towards legal fees, a moving package, and a six-month weekly fee waiver.#

Love the life you choose.

Open Days

Thursday 13 June, 10am - 2pm

Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 June, 10am - 2pm

Summerset Richmond Ranges 1 Hill Street North, Richmond 03 744 3432 | summerset.co.nz/richmond richmond.sales@summerset.co.nz

Dam provides relief in winter drought

ANNE HARDIE

The region is in the grip of a winter drought and without the Waimea Community Dam, urban and industry that feed off it would be on stage four water restrictions, which is a 65 per cent cut.

Tasman District Council acting information, science and technology group manager, Rob Smith, says Richmond has had just half of its usual rainfall for the year with just 200mms of rain compared with about 400mms. In May alone, 21.5mm was recorded compared with a typical 100mm for the month.

It has resulted in little moisture in the soil and there would be a fraction of the water in the river without the reservoir in the Lee Valley releasing water into it. Though water is not needed for much irrigation at this time of year, he says residential still needs water for drinking and within households, while industry, from meat processing to timber and glasshouses, still need the same amount of water for production. The only reason there has not been water restrictions in the past few months is because of the dam

and he says people in the community have jobs because the water is there.

“That’s peoples’ jobs. It’s not just that they get (water) cuts, their productivity would have to scale back. The flow on through our community is quite large and so it’s not just about someone irrigating some apple trees.”

At the dam site, Waimea Water has recorded the lowest May inflows since records commenced in 2007. It is now releasing 1.2 m3/s to support downstream river flows and last week it had released seven per cent of the reservoir over a two-week period, taking it to down to 85 per cent of its capacity. Twenty per cent of the reservoir was released between opening the valve at the beginning of March and one large rain event in April.

Council’s senior resource scientist, Joseph Thomas, says the positioning of the dam collects a huge quantity of rain when there is a decent rainfall such as the one in April. On the other hand, the Kainui Dam southwest of Wakefield is just 12 per cent full because it does not have the same catchment area. He says it will need about

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE

800mm of rain between now and October for next summer. He says the region is experiencing a “green drought”, where the grass looks green, but soil moisture is at wilting point, which is really dry for June.

“It looks green on top, but there really is no moisture below foot. Once you go down 300mm to 500mm it’s as dry as a board.”

Waimea Irrigators Ltd chairman, Murray King, says he has concerns for the farmers, growers and lifestylers who are not benefiting from the Waimea Community Dam and are struggling with dry, cold conditions and limited feed reserves to get through winter. He says there will be livestock under severe pressure in the coming months.

In the Moutere, the drought shows the effects without the dam, with aquifers so low that Rob says a 35 per cent water restriction is still in place and it will take a long time for the groundwater to get back up to where it needs to be because it is a confined aquifer. While over in Golden Bay, irrigators would be on cease take in winter because of the lack of rain.

/ HIGH STREET

The Motueka West stormwater discharge project is making significant progress, and the next stage of the work involves the laying of pipes under the road.

To enable this work to be completed, a section of State Highway 60 / High Street Motueka will close at midnight on Sunday 16 June with planned reopening on Thursday 27 June.

There will be significant detours in place while this phase of the project is done. All northbound traffic will detour via King Edward Street, Queen Victoria Street and along Whakarewa Street. Southbound traffic will be diverted along Tudor Street to Thorp Street and along Old Wharf Road.

Work will generally be done during daylight hours but the road will remain closed for the duration of the work. Residents near the site will still have access to their properties and pedestrians and cyclists will still be able to move through the area.

Tasman District Council staff measure river flow in the river. Photo: Anne Hardie.

Celebrating and supporting the work of volunteers in our community

Motueka Lions Club are totally supportive of National Volunteer Week

THE MOTUEKA COMMUNITY SWIMMING POOL FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE TOTALLY SUPPORT THE NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK CONCEPT.

Motueka Community Swimming Pool

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY Mariri Gallery Antiques Coastal Highway, Mariri.

SENIORNET MOTUEKA

To our dedicated and caring Ambulance Operations and Community Health volunteers in the Motueka area. For opportunities to volunteer in your community visit stjohn.org.nz/volunteer or phone 03 548 8157

The Golden Bay A&P Association would like to thank all our invaluable volunteers who helped make the show so succeseful. We'd like to thank the 500+ Nelson Tasman residents that volunteer for our community Hospice.

If you'd like to join the team, please contact Krisca Gould on 03 546 3912 or email krisca.gould@nelsonhospice.org.nz

JUNE 2024

‘Shared goals of care’ are conversations about what matters to you and your whānau and what care and treatment you want while you are in hospital.

Most of the time, the care or treatments in hospital go to plan. But unexpected things can and do happen. Keeping you involved in your own care and decisions is a big part of getting you better sooner. If something were to happen and you were not able to tell us what you would like, have you thought about what you and your whānau would want the main goal of your care to be?

• Would you want them to try all treatments that could help get you back as close as possible to your former self?

• Would you want them to get you well enough to go home to give you more time to be with your family and whānau?

• Would you want to let your body decide its own natural pathway? It is different for everyone, and there are times when what we want is just not possible, but we need to talk about it. That’s what shared goals of care are about.

Who will be talking to you?

In most cases, with your permission, a doctor, nurse or Allied Health team member will talk with you. You will be given the opportunity to include any family, whānau or support people that you would like to be part of these conversations.

Shared goals of care

Tell our health staff what matters to you

What they will talk to you about?

They will ask you about what is most important to you and your whānau. This is a chance to talk about:

• your understanding of your medical condition and anything else you would like to know

• your priorities if your health did change

• what worries you and what gives you strength

• what abilities are so important to you that you could not imagine life without them

• how much you would be willing to go through for more time

This is not a ‘forever’ decision

This conversation will take

place if you are admitted to hospital. If you need to go back to hospital in the future, your doctor or nurse will talk to you again. It is ok to change your mind

Just let your doctor or nurse know and together you can all decide on a new plan. The shared goals of care conversation is the way to have your voice and wishes heard about your healthcare.

Rugby:

Premier men: Central 43 - Waimea OB 14; Marist 43 - Nelson 19; Kahurangi 27 - Stoke 31; Moutere bye.

Premier women: Marist 42 - Waimea OB 12; Moutere WBD - Kahurangi LBD.

Second Division: Marist 40 - Nelson 19; Murchison 0 - Stoke 104; Waimea OB 21 - Wanderers 29; Tapawera/Valley Stags 39Riwaka 29; Takaka 29 - Huia 52; Collingwood bye.

First XV: Selwyn Schools Combined 12Nelson College 55; St Bede’s 20 - Waimea Combined Barbarians 32.

Football:

Nelson Pine Premier grade men: Suburbs Reserves 0 - Rangers 0; FC Nelson Karenni 2 - Smith & Sons Richmond 1; Sprig & Fern Tahuna 0 - FC Nelson 3; Motueka 1 - Golden Bay Mountain Goats 4. Nelson Pine Premier grade women: Golden Bay Shield Maidens 5 - Get Cars FC Nelson Diamonds 0; Mapua Cougars 1 - Suburbs Reserves 1; Suburbs Swans 6 - Motueka Angels 1; Hothouse Creative Richmond Foxes 5 - Sprig & Fern Tahuna Breaks 0.

NBS Motueka Golf Club Results

Mens Veterans Stableford Wednesday, 5 June

1st Alan Barbara 40

2nd John Hills 38

3rd Frik Van Herden 38

Saturday, 8 June

Ladies Pairs

1st Shona Johnson/Derryn Hedges 67

2nd Jocelyn Thomson/Liz Hall 63

3rd Shirlene Miller/Janis Webster 53

Mens Hidden Holes

1st Karl Heke

2nd Andrew Fenemor

3rd Kevin Beach

Lower Moutere Store closest to the pin

Men Peter Neal

Ladies Evelyn Hay

All-girls football back on the menu

JACK MALCOLM

Sometimes, all a sport needs is a dedicated driving force to get it back on its feet.

For local football, the return of an allgirls youth league has been met with four teams from across the region.

Cherie Llewellin says it started for her when her daughter, Poppy, wanted to continue playing, just not with the boys.

“I just don’t think anyone asked the question [why it didn’t already exist].

“It only takes one person.”

After a several-year hiatus, she says the league has been a roaring success, with plans to create another one for younger players next season.

“It’s not super competitive, we want the girls out there and having fun.

“Nelson Bays Football has been fully getting behind it and we plan to continue supporting growth in the region.”

Cherie says Sheree Lapslie from Nelson Bays Football deserves a mention for making the final decision for it to go ahead.

The 11/12 all-girls grade has two Nelson Suburbs teams, one from Richmond Athletic and one from Golden Bay.

They play nine-aside on half-sized pitches with rolling subs, with Cherie saying it’s been an exciting start to the season.

“It’s really good for them. For their growth and for their development.”

Cherie says the buy-in from the community has also contributed to their success, with Nelson Interiors jumping in to sponsor the Richmond Red Ferns team.

Emily Hohepa breaks away for the Golden Bay Mini Maidens in the newly reformed all-girls 11-12th grade. Photo: Abs Snaps.

Community Notices

MONDAY

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

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

MOTUEKA BETTER BREATHERS, Mon, 11.30am, Motueka Recreation Gym ‘Functional Fitness Room’, Old Wharf Rd. A 60-minute series of guided exercises done seated or standing, specifically designed to help those with breathing difficulties. Ph: Jess 0275467675.

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

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

TUESDAY

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

NEW '500' CARD GAMES, Tues, 1-3pm, the over 50s Hub, Pah street, Motueka. Fun, friendship, CARDS & cuppa. Everyone welcome. Info Ph: Keith 0274516422.

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

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

YOGA. If you have or have had cancer, we offer restorative yoga classes. Tues, 12.30pm. Ph: 5287669 or e: maureen.urwin@cancernelson.org.nz to reg.

WEDNESDAY

THE MOTUEKA HEART SUPPORT GROUP next meet, Wed, 19 Jun, 10:30am, Motueka Library Community Room. For more info Ph: Janet Kelly 0272296260.

MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL office at Community House, Decks reserve. Wed, 11-3pm. Inquiries about art activities; funding for Art; Art ideas for Motueka. Ph: 0210589388. AGE CONCERN TEA & TALK, Wed, 10.30am, The Shed, 24a Tudor St. More info Ph: 0279214074.

KNIT & NATTER Wed, 10-12pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Hub, 10 Pah St. Friendly group for all ages. Includes refreshments. Ph: Roz 027415636. All welcome.

WALK 4 HEALTH Wed, 9am, Motueka Community Garden. 30-50 min walk at your own pace, for any age, any fitness and size. Ph:0273015598 or wellontrack@gmail.com

MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL invites all folk interested in community arts in Motueka, to their monthly meetings. 2nd Wed of month, 7pm, community house.

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

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

THURSDAY

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

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

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

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

SENIORNET MOTUEKA. 2nd Thurs of month, 2pm. Hear all about a different country in our Countries & Cultures Interest Group. Join SeniorNet. Ph: Allan 0279711100 or www.seniornetmotueka.org.nz.

FRIDAY

SENIORNET MOTUEKA, The Genealogy Interest Group meets 2nd Fri, 2pm. Ph: Allan 0279711100 or visit www.seniornetmotueka.org.nz

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

SERIES OF TALKS with meditation teacher Bonni Ross. Sun, 16,23 Jun, 10-12pm, Over Fifties Social Hub, 10 Pah St, Motueka. Cultivating Goodness in the Midst of Change; for the benefit of present and future generations. All are welcome. e: jane.hobday17@gmail.com. By dana/koha.

FUNDRAISING SOCIAL CASINO NIGHT, Sat, 22 June. Games include Black Jack. Roulette, Crown and Anchor and a Lucky Wheel! All proceeds to Motueka South School. Find our event on Facebook or ‘Its On’ for details. Tickets $50 from Whitwells.

No door sales. Incl dinner and gaming chips. R18. JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Sat, 10-12pm, Motueka Library. Free services, including copy certification and witnessing signatures are available.

NELSON BRANCH OF ROYAL NZ AIRFORCE ASSOCIATION

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

GENERAL GROUPS

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

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

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

SENIORNET MOTUEKA Take advantage of the many interest groups offered. Join SeniorNet Motueka. To join, visit www. seniornetmotueka.org.nz, or Ph: Allan 0279711100.

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

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

RED CROSS MOTUEKA BRANCH Fundraising shop, open Mon – Fri, 10-2pm. Community House, Decks Reserve. We sell clothing, household linen and books. Donations of sellable goods are appreciated.

SURVIVORS AND THRIVERS GROUP, if you have or have had cancer, or supported someone else, come and connect. Reg maureen.urwind@cancernelson.org.nz or 5287669.

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

MOTUEKA TENNIS CLUB. INC. Social Tennis, Tues & Thurs, 9.30am, Sun, 2pm. Courts behind the Memorial Hall Pah St. Racquets available to borrow for new Members. All welcome.

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

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

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

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS. Is alcohol causing problems for your life? Want to stop drinking but can’t? we can help. Support meetings every day. Ph: 0800aaworks, 08002296757. BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP, If you have or have had breast cancer, come along to this friendly atmosphere. 102 Hardy St, Nelson. Reg: 035391137 or E: info@cancernelson. org.nz.

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

NEED A LIFT? Mapua Willing Wheels Volunteer Drivers Service, affordable transport around Mapua, Motueka, Richmond, Nelson (no airport runs). 24 hrs’ notice req. To book Ph: 0226822373. mapuawheels@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 528 2088. Due to the popularity of this column, while every effort will be made, inclusion cannot be guaranteed for free ads.

CLASSIFIEDS

CIRCULATION MANAGER

PART TIME

NEW ROLE

Things are going well for us and now we need a circulation manager to manage the complete deliveries of our publications each week. This would include dropping bundles off to our home delivery people, dropping copies off to shops and cafes around the area. We would estimate it would involve about 20 hours per week at the start of the week and would occur over 2-3 days.

We would supply a delivery van and on job training. Although part time it’s a very important role so our remuneration would reflect this. We would envisage this suiting a retired or semi-retired person but open to suggestions.

Please send your resume or application to andrew@topsouthmedia.co.nz

See web-site for details: www.tasmansoda blasting.co.nz or email office@tasman sodablasting.co.nz Ph. 022 528 8159

DEATH

STIRLING

Maree ‘Skinny’

Passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, June 2, 2024. Aged 69 years.

Loved Mum to Tracy, and Brett. Cherished Nana to her grandchildren. A loving sister, aunty, and friend to many.

According to Maree’s wishes a private cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, messages can be sent to The Stirling/ Grieve Family, c/- 7 Taylor Avenue, Motueka 7120

DEATH

LIGHTFOOT

Walter Mervyn (Merv)

Passed away peacefully at home on 5 June 2024.

Loved husband of Judy. Loved father and father-in-law of Shane and Chris, Kerry and Andrea, Kyle and Jacqui, Glenn and Andrea.

Special Pops to his eleven grandchildren and two great grandsons. Forever gratitude to our Motueka District Nurses, Richard, Colette and the Greenwood Health team. Mark and Nelson Hospital, John and his team at Life Pharmacy and Hospice for their advice and help. As Merv requested, we will be having a family celebration of his life at a later date.

YOUNG

Robert McClean

Passed away after a very brief illness, at Nelson Hospital on Saturday, June 1, 2024 with family by his side.

Aged 88 years. Loving husband of Dawn. Much loved father and father-in-law to Paul and Seisia, Greg and Pie, and Graeme and Marie. An adored Grandfather to his many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

According to Robert’s wishes a private cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers messages can be sent to the Young Family c/- 8 Inglis Street, Motueka, 7120

CLASSIFIEDS

Ben Towse, one of the event organisers, with his son Seb Towse, co-organiser Sam Buckingham, and marshal

465 riders gear-up in Tapawera trail ride fundy

Tapawera’s community trail ride fundraiser exceeded expectations with 465 riders hitting the 30km loop across three private farms to raise funds for Tapawera Rugby Club and Tapawera Area School.

The ride, on Sunday 2 June, traversed over 700 hectares of farmland that had been unridden for eight years and raised over $28K through entry fees and food sold on the day.

“Thanks to a Pub Charity grant which helped pay for medics and Portaloos, this event has raised significant funds for the Tapawera Rugby Club, Tapawera Area School, and the Nelson Motorcycle Club,” one of the event organisers from the Nelson Motorcycle Club, Ben Towse, says.

Ben says it was an awesome event, the weather was “mint”, the track was awesome and everything ran really smoothly.

“The best bit was seeing so many like-minded people of all ages from all walks of life out having a great time while supporting the local community.

“The club is pleased to partner with other community organisations, our biggest hurdle is often finding land, so if a rural area can find the land the Nelson Motorcycle Club has all the other resources and expertise to bring a fun trail ride fundraiser to fruition.”

Ben welcomes anyone wanting to see what it was like to ride along with him for a lap on YouTube video ‘Tapawera Community Fundraiser Trail Ride, Nelson, NZ, 2 June, 2024’.

MOTUEKA BOWLING CLUB

Results of the Motueka Bowling Club’s Open Triples Tournament held last Saturday, 8 June 2024. The tournament was generously sponsored by Super Liquor Motueka. 16 teams enjoyed pleasant playing conditions and a successful tournament. 4 games of 9 ends each were played.

Results:

1st - Jamie Hoult, John Parson, Mike Carter, from the Stoke club with 4 wins, 24 ends, 58 points

2nd - Carolyn Wadsworth, Mike Drakie, Christine Richardson from the Tāhunanui Club with 4 wins, 20 ends, 49 points

3rd - Barbara McGregor, Di Potts, Kristine Greaney from the United club with 3 wins, 22 ends, 58 points

ELOISE MARTYN

Darren Letham at the Tapawera community trail ride fundraiser.

Photo: Supplied.