Tākaka Volunteer Fire Brigade members Grant Lawrence, left, Neil Gardiner, Kyle Gardiner and Sam Goffriller feature in the calendar.
Photo: Brent Topine. See page 2.
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Tākaka Volunteer Fire Brigade is turning up its fundraising heat with a 2025 calendar emblazoned with its members fully kitted and sleeveless.
The calendar is part of the brigade’s fundraiser for Neil and Kyle Gardiner, Sam Goffriller and Grant Lawrence to burn through the pain at the World Firefighter Games in the USA in October 2025.
The quad, named the 39ers, is gearing up for the international competition after its reign of fire at the National Firefighter Challenge in May with a hard-fought team relay victory.
Fundraising manager Tash Rattray says the crew took a bit of convincing when the calendar idea was brought up, before hitting the photoshoot scene.
“It’s the sort of calendar where you don’t have to take your tops off, but you’ve got to take a comical side like the normal Australian or American firefighter calendar, so we put our own sort of spin on it,” she says.
“They had a lot of fun… before
Tākaka Volunteer Fire Brigade station officer and 39ers member Neil Gardiner featured in the calendars ‘Sept-ember’ page. Photo: Brent Topine.
the end of the day, they were already talking about how we’re going to do [a 2026] calendar, which is pretty exciting.”
Tash says the pin-ups were captured by Tākaka photographer Brent Topine at the brigade and local parks and Fujifilm Nelson supported the endeavour.
“We managed to get the photo shoot done in a day which was awesome,” she says.
“On the back of the calendars we have some outtakes of shots that didn’t quite make the cut, but we thought they were quite comical.”
Tash says around $45,000 needed to be stoked up for the 39ers American exploit and $7500 had so far been garnered through raffles, bake sales, tree felling and other donations. She says a quiz night on 28 De-
cember, a bingo night on 6 January, both at Pohara Hall and a casino night on 15 March and other fundraisers also have the potential to turbocharge the tally. The $20 calendars are available at Golden Bay Information Centre, Golden Bay Hammer Hardware, ITM Tākaka, Good as Good Cafe, and Liquorland Golden Bay and by email: tashrattray17@gmail.com.
Whitebait regulations talk of the riverbank
ANNE HARDIE
The word is local whitebaiters missed out on big runs of the delicacy this year, apart from a couple of tides that delivered catches up to 7kg.
Department of Conservation’s operation manager Motueka, Chris Golding, says the shorter season this year tended to make fishers more focused and the main rivers averaged 20 to 30 people fishing per tide each day. He says whitebait catches dropped off as quickly as they started and were patchy up and down the rivers, though the Motueka River reportedly fished consistently well.
“One dedicated fisher on one of our West Coast rivers fished all season, apart from five days off, plus the enforced flood days, and took home 30 pounds (14kg).”
He says Tasman has good numbers of the more common species of inanga, banded kōkopu and kōaro, particularly in streams and rivers in the national parks and conservation land.
The Abel Tasman National Park and parts of Kahurangi National Park contain nationally significant populations of the rarer shortjaw kōkopu. Chris says there was much discussion on the riverbanks around the changes in regulations, plus the need for more
regulations to be introduced. That included banning sock-type nets, nets with traps fitted, plus regulating or banning the commercial sale of whitebait.
However, he says all those issues would require legislative changes and community consultation that would be years down the track.
Through the season, DOC rangers continued to see fishers breaking rules, especially screens exceeding 3m in length and people being further than 10m from their fishing gear.
Rings For All Occasions
Using the excuse that they didn’t know the regulations was “getting thin”, particularly with the department’s focus on advocacy, education and, this year, a bit more on enforcement.
Details of infringes were only available for Motueka, where two infringement notices were issued and one recommended prosecution is currently under consideration.
Two more fishers had verbal warnings, two received advocacy letters and two had warning letters.
Council slashes fuel costs
Tasman District Councils fleet fuel costs have been reduced by approximately 50 per cent following the implementation of the fleet strategy of electrification and rationalising the number of fleet vehicles.
In September, the council’s fuel costs totalled $7,970.79, compared to $16,189.35 in September 2023.
Sealing season is here
The 2024/25 road sealing season kicked off late last month in the region. Tasman District Council say the upcoming season’s programme requires 375,000m2 of road surface to be sealed. Contractors are also set to spray 850,000 litres of binder and spread 7,175 tons of sealing chip to cover 102 lane kilometres of road. Approximately 7,000m2 of maintenance sealing as part of pre-reseal repairs has been completed.
‘Menacing morons’ mess with road signs
TDC has discovered more “menacing morons” have been messing with road signs. They called out the “sh**ty behaviour”, which is not only illegal, but also reckless and puts members of the community at risk. Over the past week, road crews discovered quite a few signs around Golden Bay have been tagged over, either partially or completely, making it difficult and distracting for drivers trying to find their way around.
“It may seem like just a little bit of harmless fun, but it’s not, and it costs us, and therefore ratepayers, a lot of money to repair damage like this. It also takes our contractor away from more important work,” a spokesperson says.
Local whitebaites appear to have missed out in big runs this season. Photo: Philippe Gerbeaux DOC.
Celebrating two decades of independent living
ELISE VOLLWEILER
Twenty years is a long time to keep a friendship, let alone a flatmate.
Karen, Nicola, Chris and Sharron have just ticked off their 20th year of flatting happiness, with past and present staff as well as friends and family gathering to celebrate their milestone.
The housemates joined forces in 2004 when Nicola decided that, despite her disability, she was ready to leave the familial nest and have some independence like her peers.
Her parents bought a house in Motueka and repurposed it to have four bedrooms, two bathrooms and an office. The Moffatt Street property is run by the Nelson Marlborough District Health Board, with strong family involvement. Karen, Sharron and Chris joined Nicola as flatmates, and the quartet live independent lives with the support of staff.
Long-time staff member Rose says that the flatmates help with chores, shopping, making their lunches, and doing their own washing, “as well as learning life skills along the way and getting along with people”.
“Despite the ups and downs of normal life, the quartet are still going strong in 2024. They are great mates and have lots of fun together.”
They often spend their weekends with family, and their lives are packed full of activities.
They visit the IDEA Motu base three days a week, and their combined interests include karate, going to the gym, Zumba sessions, church, swimming, bocce, visiting the speedway, grooving at Lifelong Disability Support dances, and competing in the indoor bowls event at the Special Olympics.
The group count among them some ardent Giants and Makos supporters, and “they aren’t behind the rest of us with movies, shows, coffee outings and social meals out,” Rose reckons.
The foursome’s supporters and loved ones gathered at Moffatt Street on Saturday, 30 October, to celebrate their flatting anniversary. The event included plenty of food and laughter, and some reminiscing about the early house renovations.
The flatmates are grateful to all the people who help them, including their own families, Motu staff, Lifelong Disability Support team, church family and their special Olympic coaches. Rose reckons that they want to say hello to all the Motueka locals who enjoy meeting them.
“This makes for a great community effort.”
Chris, Nicola, Karen and Sharron have recently blown out the candles to commemorate their 20th year of being flatmates. Photo: Supplied.
High spirits and high heels at red carpet event
ELISE VOLLWEILER
It may be a competition, but NBS Dancing for a Cause contestant Lauretta Haskell reckons that there is already a firm comradery between the region’s 10 contestants.
“The vibe is really really high,” she says.
“All of the competitors have formed a really nice friendship already. We’re all fundraising for the same goal at the end, so that adds to the team effort.”
Although the main event isn’t until next May, the contestants are already practising a range of steps, and they will be assigned professional partners – and either a Latin or a ballroom dance genre – after Christmas.
Last month’s launch night for the current NBS Dancing for a Cause campaign was a poignant one for Lauretta, as it marked exactly 11 years since the death of her big sister Nicci.
“Nicci’s really my ‘why’,” Lauretta shares.
“Through her breast cancer journey, hospice was just so vital, and just a heartbeat in the community. It was invaluable to have them support her – and us as well.”
Statistics provided by Nelson Tasman Hospice show that the organisation supports an average of 27 people per month in Motueka alone, with 80 per cent of that care taking place within the clients’ own homes.
The organisation helps with many small things that can make such a difference to those who are suffering. Lauretta uses the example of the volunteers who makes memory boxes, which might contain treasures such as letters to loved ones or future presents from a terminally ill parent who knows they will not be around to see their children’s milestone events.
The fact that Nelson Tasman Hospice has a funding shortfall of al-
most $10,000 per day is something that makes Lauretta shake her head. “It’s just ridiculous, actually, to think that such a vital service in our community needs to fundraise such a significant amount.”
The first big fundraising push for the Motueka local is coming up later this month, with her grand Night at the Oscars quiz and auction evening. Complete with red carpet, 360-degree photo booth and life-sized Oscar statues, Lauretta is pulling out all the stops. She is eager to do her bit to plug the hospice funding gaps and is hoping that the Night at the Oscars will raise $20,000, which is about half of her personal Dancing for a Cause target.
The event’s 20 auction prizes are worth many thousands of dollars and include tourism and holiday options, a photoshoot, a Thermomix, an e-bike, a gym member-
ship and even a voucher for a vasectomy. There are also about 25 prizes for the quiz as well as for other games and spot prizes
throughout the night.
Local musician Matt Werner will be performing, and the dance floor will be open until about 11.30pm.
There will even be a ballroom display by a group of professional dancers - “not us amateurs who stand on their feet”, Lauretta laughs.
She praises the generosity of the local businesses who have thrown their support behind the event.
“I’m actually really looking forward to it now – it just needs bums on seats to make it all worth it.”
A Night at the Oscars is being held at the Motueka Recreation Centre on Saturday, 23 November, from 6pm.
Tables of six cost $420 which includes a generous grazing dinner and dessert, a welcome drink, quiz entry and entertainment. For more information or to book a table at the event, search Facebook for Lauretta Haskell - NBS Dancing for a Cause 2025.
NBS Dancing for a Cause contestant Lauretta Haskell is encouraging other people to put their dancing shoes at her upcoming Night at the Oscars fundraiser, which centres around a quiz night and auction to raise money for Nelson Tasman Hospice. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
Median barriers prove their worth
New median barriers installed on the State Highway 60 Ruby Bay Bypass are proving their worth according to NZTA.
NZTA say, since the barriers have been installed, they have already been been hit five times.
“Since they were installed in June, they’ve been hit five times. That’s five potential head-on collisions prevented,” says system manager Top of the South, Rob Service.
“They’re doing exactly what they’re designed to do. Reducing the risk of serious crashes and keeping people safe,” he says.
NZTA began repairing the barriers earlier this month, but unfortunately, road crews could not complete all the repair work needed on the barriers last week.
“They need to be fixed so they can keep doing their job, which requires a road closure. We realise closures are disruptive, but this is the best option.
Remember, closures for serious and fatal accidents are far worse, and that’s what we want to avoid.”
It means further overnight road closures are required which will
begin again on Sunday. Road safety is a priority, and the repairs must be completed to ensure the median barriers continue to keep everyone safe, Rob says.
The aim is to complete the remaining work in one night, but it may take up to three nights to complete the job.
The overnight road closure will start at 7 pm on Sunday, 24 November, and work will be completed no later than 5 am on Wednesday, 27 November. The closure will be in place from 7 pm to 5 am each night.
Local road detours will be available while the highway is closed. People travelling between Motueka and Richmond/Nelson must detour via Mapua Drive, Stafford Drive and Aporo Road. Road users should allow an extra 10 minutes for their journeys.
Residents needing to access Gardner Valley Road or Tasman View Road will need to use Dominion Road or Harley Road. Residents needing access to Stagecoach Road and Chaytor Road must use Seaton Valley Road.
Ready… steady… play at Decks
ELISE VOLLWEILER
After weeks of construction, the fences are down, and the refurbished Decks Reserve playground has reopened so that its patrons can get down to the serious business of climbing, swinging and jumping. The space
Whakatinanahia ō Manako
BELIEVE IT. BECOME IT.
received a $600,000 facelift and now has a plethora of swings in different shapes and sizes, some new sensory and passive play elements, and the welcome addition of two drinking fountains. Soft rubberized matting surrounds the play equipment, and the new three-on-three basketball half-
court has already been christened by some of the visiting Nelson Giants. The Tasman District Council reports that more than 150 people attended last Friday’s opening ceremony, which included blessings, karakia, speeches and a performance by Parklands School’s kapa haka ropu.
Commercial St resealing gets underway
Drivers heading through Tākaka will need to be ready for road resurfacing work starting in the Golden Bay town next week.
Contractors will complete extensive resurfacing work on Commercial Street in Tākaka, with 10 nights of closures planned from 17 to 28 November.
To keep drivers and contractors safe, the highway will be closed to all traffic between Meihana Street and Motupipi Street from 7 pm to 6:30 am. No work will be done on Friday, 22, or Saturday, 23 November.
The resurfacing is essential maintenance and will help ensure the road is kept safe and reliable for everyone.
Contractors will be doing their best to keep disruption to an absolute minimum. They will work overnight when there is less traffic, and the road will be open to traffic during the day. Once asphalting is complete, road markings will be reinstated under night works with stop/ go controls and a 30 km/h speed limit.
During the night closures, a detour will be in place via Meihana Street and Motupipi Street. This detour is expected to add up to five minutes to travel times.
The work schedule runs from Sunday, 17 November to Thursday, 28 November (excluding Friday 22 and Saturday 23 November), 7 pm - 6:30 am. The worksite is located on SH60, Commercial Street in the Tākaka township, between Meihana Street and Motupipi Street.
Sugar and spice were on offer at Motueka’s Diwali workshop, where host Anjali Puri illuminated the significance and rituals of the Hindu festival of lights to a full house at the Motueka Library – Te Noninga Kumu on Saturday. Anjali also talked through the traditional spices that she uses in her cooking, passing pungent bottles and jars around the room to saturate the senses. Several Indian dishes, as well as freshly made chai tea, was served following the talk, with many people returning for seconds and thirds. Anjali told the group that she was hopeful that now they had learned about Diwali, perhaps next year they could come together to join the celebrations in earnest. Photographed is Anjali, second from left, with some of the workshop’s audience.
Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
Third mythical and magic tale
GORDON PREECE
Ruby Bay’s Barbara Glass has conjured her third children’s literature charm with magical and mythical themes.
Her maiden book in the now trilogy was The Prince and the Dragon in 2019 followed by The Children of Dragonsneer three years later and the latest creation The Spell-ing Witch was published in September.
Barbara says the first publication chronicles a short-sighted, bumbling and lonely prince who endeavours to rid his kingdom of a frightening, wingless dragon.
She says it had a good reception including from the harshest critics, school children, but they resented its ending.
“So, I wrote the second book, same sort of format, with lots of illustrations,” she says. “I was enjoying the process, so I thought I’d make it into three books.”
Barbara says the prince and the dragon in the second book set off to find the dragon’s home town of Dragonsneer, and the third book continues the story with the duo on a quest to find the witch that cast a spell on the dragon to deprive it of its wings.
“I’ve got a very vivid imagination, I dream up all these things, and once you start writing it down, it seems to flow along,” she says. “The third book includes more than 5000 words and more than 50 watercolour illustrations… so it’s quite good for young children that can read it, and they can see
all the pictures and understand the story.
“I’m meeting people now who bought the first two books and they report back how much their children enjoy it and how much it makes them laugh. It’s quite a funny, quirky and humorous tale because it’s got my English
sense of humour, and it keeps the adults amused while they read it to children.”
Barbara says sales of the first two books were scarce, but the third should be a different story having identified the pre-Christmas period was booming. She plans to sell the book at the Motueka
Sunday Market, Nelson Market and online.
“I feel that it’s the next step if I want to write a few more stories, and once I start getting my name out there, I can write a few more stories,” she says. Visit: www.jesterbooks.co.nz to purchase a copy of Barbara’s new book.
vehicle sales, both new and used - finance & Insurance
specialist tools & equipment to ensure we are able to support all of your mobility needs, from a WOF inspection to a full service. Tyres sold and fitted - the list goes on....
but the most impressive thing is our people!
From left: Jim, Craig, Juan, Dave, Graeme, Gary & Mike Our team is here to help.
Ruby Bay’s Barbara Glass has unleashed her third children’s book. Photo: Gordon Preece.
Harmony of harps play from the heart
ANNE HARDIE
Annemieke Harmonie reckons the world needs harpists and, fortunately, there seems to be a worldwide resurgence in playing an instrument that has been around for thousands of years. She describes it as the instrument of the heart and goes on to say there is nothing quite like the sound of a harp orchestra plucking the strings of 10 or so harps. Her students form the Harmonie Harp orchestra which provides the rare experience of listening to ‘many harps played in harmony’ and which she says is divine and very special.
Tucked away on a ‘homesteading’ block in Dovedale, Annemieke has been teaching harp in the region for 14 years and today’s students range from six to mid70s, with some overseas students taught via Zoom.
As a six-year-old growing up in Holland she pleaded with her parents to be able to play a harp, and three years later they sought out the harpist at a concert who said she would teach at their village if they could get enough kids together.
A harp has accompanied her on her journey ever since and, as a young woman travelling around Europe busking, she was invited to play in castles, palazzos and even caves.
“It’s an amazing way to travel,” she says. “As soon as you sit down, it reaches people’s hearts.”
Her backpack was made to accommodate her harp – which come in a range of sizes – and at 24 she headed south with a one-way ticket to Singapore and beyond, eventually busking in Australia and then New Zealand, where she has stayed.
Then at 27, her birthday present to herself was changing her name by deed poll from Neidig to Harmonie, which she felt better represented who she wanted to be.
These days she plays at weddings and increasingly at funerals, while her students busk because she encourages them to get out there and play to people.
“I tell my students to take their harp busking; take it to rest homes, churches, schools. Share their music and that motivates them to get even better.
“The harp is for every age and ability. I work with dyslexic and
people who can’t sight read, and it isn’t an issue. I teach them by sight initially and then tell them to put their music aways and play by heart.”
That is, after all, what playing by heart means, she says.
Listening to their heart when they play.
“I think music is the expression
Banking for
our soul.”
Harps aren’t cheap - about $7,000 new - which is why Annemieke has rental harps for her students. Though if they do buy a new one, she says it will increase in value, partly because it’s hard to find a new one, but harps literally improve with age. Their sound gets better as they
are played.
Anyone wanting to hear the orchestra of harps will have to wait another two years. Concerts have just been held in Nelson and Motueka and Annemieke says she only holds them every two years because it takes time for students to practise for the next one.
Annemieke Harmonie says the harp reaches people’s hearts. Photo: Anne Hardie.
Angela and Jason Berkett
Ashley and Joice Calder
Blair and Janeene Valentine
Blake lowe and Macy Gibbons
Brian and Megan Bell
Charlie Mcgillicuddy and Chloe Edwards
Dan Collins and Emily Talbot
Greg and Wendy Nicolle
Hayley Partridge and Jorja Barlow
Julie
and Gabrielle Mckay
St James church of Ngatimoti
ROBYN
PARKES
Ngatimoti is the small settlement 18 kilometres southwest of Motueka, lying on the banks of the Motueka River. The earliest settlers, arriving in 1854/55, were the Salisbury brothers, John, Thomas and Edward. George Remnant arrived in Ngatimoti around 1860, playing a prominent part in assuring the education of the children. In the early days of settlement, the land was covered in thick bush without any roads and everything having to be carried on one’s back or by packhorse. By the 1890’s hundreds of acres of land had been cleared, making room for homesteads.
By 1868 a school was opened followed by a Post Office in 1870, based in the schoolroom, allowing settlers to receive their letters and newspapers twice a week. Slowly, the social and educational needs of the people was being met, and in 1880 a move began to build a church, catering for the spiritual needs of the community. As was always the case when a need was identified, the community responded with a Church of England sale of work, an event
festival held at the schoolhouse and grounds. The Bishop arrived about noon, and at two o’clock held a short service, and directly afterwards, assisted by the Rev. S. Poole, baptized a number of children.
The goods offered up for sale were all gone by five in the afternoon, after which the school chil-
had their tea followed by the adults. Prizes were distributed to the children by the Bishop before he delivered a lecture on the Cradle of the Human Race. With the day not yet finished by 10pm, the schoolroom became a scene of festivities which continued until the break of day. Mr Guy announced his intention
of giving a piece of ground for the erection of the church, and during the afternoon the ground was pegged out and formally handed over to the committee.
The newly-completed St James church was consecrated on Tuesday, 28 October, 1884. Settlers came in large numbers from Riwaka, Motueka, Pangatotara,
Moutere, Dovedale, Woodstock and a party of about twenty from Nelson, resulting in not all being able to get into the church. Consecration services were held, the sermons being preached by the Rev A. H. Sedgwick, Rev P. Innes Jones, and Rev Taylor.
The first draft plan of the church was drawn by Mr Pownall, of Wanganui, who was a son-in-law of Mr Sutcliffe, master of Ngatimoti school. The designs were subsequently prepared by Mr Walter Good, of Nelson, and the contractor was Mr Robinson, of Motueka.
The chancel fittings were executed by Mr Fleming, of Nelson, and were chiefly paid for through the exertions of a lady in Motueka. The seats were of kauri wood and were designed and made by Mr Strachan of Ngatimoti. Services were held throughout the day culminating in hymns and anthems in the evening. Almost every house in the settlement was full, with even persons not belonging to the Church of England offering hospitality. About twenty were put up in tents, which were pitched by Messrs Strachan brothers, and provided with clean straw by Mr Heath.
dren
Wise young heads test general knowledge
Well done, everybody. Congratulations, Jack and Xander from Tapawera. You both did well.
Barbara Faulkner
Tasman not following Nelson on intensified housing
Note that neither the information sent out, nor the website, actually outline what medium is.
Warwick Rogers
Hmm - I say again where are all these people coming from that want these houses? You need to know what type people they are (retired, young couples, families etc) to know what type of housing they need. Also you need to build into the plan schools and infrastructure for support. There is no real sign of this bypass we keep hearing about and if it wasn’t for the traffic that wasn’t thought about when we created Waimea West ( now rebranded as Berryfields and Meadowsomething or other to make it sound nicer) we wouldn’t need it.
able. Next point - why are we going up so high when we are in an earthquake zone and on a flood plain in the era of global warming? Two-storey houses fine but any more is asking for trouble and frankly unnecessary.
Janet Ellison
What they aren’t telling us is where in Hope it would land and I suspect we are going to lose some of Hope Domain. Once again, making the area less desir-
The big reno at Mārahau
It definitely needs an upgrade so that’s good to hear.
Lisa Trusler
I remember the big tower you had to crawl around at night time.
Keri Williams
Expect
the unexpected from police
Good on them, I want to keep my family safe.
Susan Smith
Eight out of 5500. What a great statistic. Good or bad. Would be a matter of contention. Same as 83 over 80 for a speed violation, when speedos only have to accurate to 10%. And no speedo certifiers in the Top of South.
Dave Roberts
They need to stop all the people towing caravans with no extended mirrors and give them tickets for holding up traffic. See it every day!
Shawry Shaw
THE ROCK FELLA
A million in fines for Nelson drivers
10 KING EDWARD STREET PORT MOTUEKA
Phone: 022 137 4574 The Rock Fella@facebook
36 caught running red lights??!! I see that in a week!
BookCafe – Monday 18 November, 10.30am-12pm Topic: How do the Arts, Music, Drama and Dance affect social change?
Law For Lunch series – all 12pm-1pm Wills – Wednesday 20 November Enduring Powers of Attorney – Wednesday 27 November Trusts – Wednesday 4 December
Italian Renaissance Paper Craft workshop Thursday 21 November, 10.30am-12pm
“Classics” Book Quiz – Thursday 21 November, 2pm-3pm Bring friends, test your “classic novel” knowledge.
Godwits Talk – Friday 22 November, 6pm-7.30pm
Building Bricks Club – Monday 25 November, 3.30pm-5pm
Wendy Griffith
Cyclone Alison in the 70s.”
Luke Jordan “Winning a regional hockey tournament, I got to bond with my team a lot.”
Stephanie Glass
“Participating in the Smokefree Stage Challenge and school camps.”
Tony McLeod
rugby in the winter
Unbridled community support for Motueka’s RDA renovation
ELISE VOLLWEILER
A helping hoof has been extended to Motueka’s Riding for the Disabled, with a slick upgrade underway to the interior of the club’s shabby clubroom space.
The renovation comes thanks to Motueka Mitre 10’s Helping Hands programme, which offers practical hands-on help to nominated community groups or charities.
The club’s board had contacted Mitre 10 owner Dave Richards back in July, explaining that they were a local organisation providing therapeutic horse riding and related activities for about 50 children and adults in the community. Their worn-out club rooms, they stated, were in dire need of repair and refurbishment.
Dave thought it sounded like a worthy cause, and so he came down to check it out.
“And then I thought, oh, this is quite a big job,” he laughs. Not to be put off, he decided it could still be done with a bit of wider support.
The work is due to be finished later this month and will leave the space with new flooring, freshly painted walls, a new kitchen, and a warmer and more modern ambience.
Motueka RDA’s office administrator Michelle Harbour says that it is wonderful to see the renovations taking shape, as the new space provides a more accurate reflection of the organization’s work and vision.
“We run a really professional programme, and now it looks like we do,” she explains. “We’re just so grateful to everybody giving their time and expertise.”
RDA helps people with physical and intellectual disabilities, as well as assisting with confidence, emotional regulation. The programme deals with people of all ages and currently has clientele from three to 68 years old.
Volunteering their businesses’
“I managed to ring some friends and family and get some people to give up a bit of time and money.”
time and expertise alongside Mitre 10 are Josh Fraser from Flooring Xtra, Precision Painters’ Brent Pickworth, Danny
Neal from Tranquillity Plumbing, DR Build’s Daniel Richards, and Luuk Hermens from Motueka Electrical.
Dave says there are quite a few horse lovers on the Mitre 10 staff, and he can see the difference that RDA makes within the community.
“Seeing the kids smile today is fantastic, isn’t it?”
Purdie Campbell from Nelson NBS home loan client
Tradespeople Daniel Richards, left, Casey Iorns, and Danny Neal, together with Mitre 10 Motueka owner Dave Richards, right, are helping to renovate the club rooms at Motueka’s Riding for the Disabled base so that people like four-year-old Harrison and his helpers Sarah and Kennedy have a welcome and functional space to visit. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
Labour Weekend weather went from one extreme to another for organisers of the King of the Hill dirt bikes races near Brightwater. Saturday was a washout but the downhill drainage on the Mount Heslington Road venue was so efficient that once the sun eventually came out the course dried and provided ideal conditions.
“The delay actually worked to our advantage as we got a much bigger crowd on Monday than expected earlier in the weekend,” says Dan Shallcrass of Moto X-Events.
Up to a thousand people descended on the venue with many of them keen to see how Brad Gale’s home-built bike “the Beast” would perform. It turned out to be a rollercoaster
ride for the Mapua engineering apprentice and his 2.7 metre and 1100 horsepower machine.
“There wasn’t enough traction for my first run up the hill so we did some welding work on the chain on the back wheel,” reveals Brad who had some of his engineering mates on hand to support him.
The changes worked but no sooner had he powered across the finish line, with the fastest time in the open class, than his gearbox blew up.
So the $1500 first prize money was timely.
“I felt the pressure to perform so to win was pretty cool,” says the 20-year-old.
No rider has ever made it to the top of the hill, a very steep stretch of farm land, but Brad is determined to return next year
and achieve that.
The King of the Hill attracted up to 50 riders and Dan gleefully reports other than Brad’s bike, the only other casualty was a broken mudguard.
Dan and co-promoter Bryan Heaphy rated this year’s event a ten out of ten with “lots of action”.
The junior section went to 16-year-old Dylan Huddlestone, who made his way up through the snow from Christchurch to claim the $500 stake.
“Dylan is well-travelled and rated our event as one of the best he’s ever been to,” declares Dan. He reports other local farmers are now approaching them about staging the event and even the operators of the Sylvan Forest mountainbike park have expressed interest, too.
The Beast set to be unleashed on hill climb
Brad Gale receives his King of the Hill first prize of $1500.
Photo: Supplied.
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, Brass Band Hall, Old Wharf Rd. A 60-minute series of guided exercises done seated or standing, specifically designed to help those with breathing difficulties. Ph: Jess 0275467675.
MOTUEKA HIGHLAND PIPE BAND, Mon, 7pm. Band is located beside Motueka Recreation Centre. Promoting Scottish tradition and culture. Look forward to your participation. Info: Ph: 027284 8361.
MAPUA FRIENDSHIP CLUB. Indoor bowls, 1st & 3rd Mon. Mapua Bowling Club rooms. 2pm, Bring a plate of afternoon tea. Lots of laughs. Ph: Val 035403685.
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 welcome. Ph: Sue 02102416155.
HOPE TENNIS CLUB SOCIAL TENNIS, Every Tues, 9.30am, Hope Tennis Courts, Hope Domain. All abilities most welcome. Queries Ph: 0211729257.
MOTUEKA BRASS, Tues Evenings. Discover your musical talent with us! Join our lively brass band for an unforgettable experience to join Ph: 021728168 or come along.
YOGA. If you have or have had cancer, we offer restorative yoga classes. Tues, 12.30pm. To Reg, Ph: 5287669.
WEDNESDAY
THE MOTUEKA HEART SUPPORT GROUP monthly get together, Wed 20 Nov, 10:15am, Motueka Library Community Room. Guest speaker will be Dr Claire Thurlow sharing with us
a Cholesterol Study she is involved in. For further info contact Janet Kelly ph: 0272296260.
WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ: 10am – 11.30am, Wed 20 Nov, Motueka Library. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities and services. www. wellby.org.nz 03 5467681.
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. All welcome.
WALK 4 HEALTH, Wed, 9am, Motueka Community Garden. 3050 min walk at your own pace, for any age, any fitness and size. Ph:0273015598.
TOASTMASTERS MOTUEKA meet 1st & 3rd Wed of month, 6.45pm start, St John’s rooms, Jack Inglis Hosp, Courtney St. Gain speaking confidently, friendly environment. More Info Ph: Peter 0277468311.
MOTUEKA SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLUB, Wed, 7.30pm, Lower Moutere Hall. Keep fit while having fun. All ages, no partner needed. First time free. Enq Ph: Fay 0210393559.
SHARLAND CYCLES 5K FUN RUN & WALK from Club Waimea. Wednesday evenings till 18th Dec. Registration 5.30pm. Race briefing 6pm. More info www.waimeaharriers.nz
DEATH CAFÉ, 2nd Wed of month, 10-11.30am. Revite Café, 256
High St. An open space for people to talk about death and dying. e:margaret@margaretmccallum.com
THURSDAY
MEDITATION, Weekly meditation sessions open to all. Thurs, 12.15-12.45pm, Te Noninga Kumu - Motueka Library. During term time. No registration needed. Just come along. Info: Ph: Louise 0278789240.
NELSON BAYS HARMONY CHORUS (women’s choir), is seeking new members to join our happy group. Thurs evenings, Club Waimea, Richmond. Ph: Carole 0274360910.
MOTUEKA 50+ WALKING GROUP Thurs. More info Ph: 0212640403 e: secretary50pluswalkers@gmail.com, or www.
DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY
50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: office@topsouthmedia.co.nz
motueka50pluswalkers.org.nz.
RUMMIKUB Thurs, 1-4pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Club, 10 Pah St. Friendly group, includes refreshments. All welcome. Ph: Keith 0274516422.
THE DOCTORS MOTUEKA – Walking Group, Thurs, 9am, by the Janie Seddon Shipwreck carpark. Walking for 30 mins, suitable for all fitness levels. Make your daily walk more fun and meet new people. Ph: 035288358.
NVC PRACTICE GROUP (NONVIOLENT / COMPASSIONATE COMMUNICATION), Every 2nd Thurs, 7-8.30pm, Motueka. In school term. For info e: margaret@margaretmccallum.com.
PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meet 1st Thurs of month, 1.30-3.30pm, Broadgreen House, 276 Nayland Rd. Ph: Bill 035448635 or 035391137.
MOTUEKA 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: Maureen 02102600432
FRIDAY
SENIORNET MOTUEKA, The Genealogy Interest Group meets 2nd Fri, 2pm. Ph: Maureen 02102600432
SENIORNET MOTUEKA, The Smartphone, iPad, iPhone and Tablet Interest Group meets 3rd Fri, 2pm. Ph Maureen 02102600432
SATURDAY / SUNDAY
TREWAVAS ST ART WALK. Sat, 30 Nov, 10- 3pm. Artists selling their creations direct to you! On rain or shine.
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Sat, 10-12pm, Motueka Library. Free services, including copy certification and witnessing signatures are available.
MOTUEKA REPAIR CAFE 10am-1pm Sat 16 Nov, Motueka Library. Free assessment and repair if possible of household items which would otherwise be thrown away. Refreshments provided
on the house while you wait.
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
HOUSIE: 1st and 4th Sat of month, 10 Pah St. Over 50s Social Hub. Ph: Jude 0273244226. All Welcome. Afternoon tea included. Cards $4. Raffles available.
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.
MOTUEKA DISTRICT BRASS Do you want to be part of a fun, social and competitive band, who make players welcome? e: motueka.brass@gmail.com or Ph: 021728168
ENCOURAGEMENT GRANTS of up to $500 for groups & Individuals with an art project involving our local community. Contact: motuekaartscouncil@gmail.com
MOTUEKA NEWCOMERS New to Motueka? We’re a social group, mostly retired (50+) who meet regularly and welcome newcomers. More info Ph: Jana 035284355.
MOTUEKA MENZSHED, Tues, Wed or Thurs 9-12pm, MenzShed, Marchwood Park, College Rd. Give the missus some space, come to the menzshed. Just turn up or e: secretarymotmenzShed@ gmail.com.
MOTUEKA RED CROSS. Open Mon – Sat, 10-2pm, Community House. Donations of clothing, books, shoes, linen welcome.
MOTUEKA TRAMPING CLUB, A diversity of weekend day walks and multi-day trips suitable for a range of fitness levels. Visit www.motuekatrampingclub.org to learn more about your local Club, or e: membership.motuekatc@gmail.com for info on joining.
MOTUEKA RIDING FOR THE DISABLED We need more volunteers to help with therapeutic riding sessions. Tues, Wed, Thurs, 8.30-1pm. Ph: 0211151720 or e: info@motuekarda.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. MULTICULTURAL MOTUEKA welcomes migrants and refugees every Tues, 8.30-1pm, Fri, 8.30 -2pm, Community House, Decks Reserve. We provide connection and practical assistance for newcomers to our region as well as support for all cultural activities happening in our community. Ph 027 5286744 or sez@ multiculturalnt.co.nz.
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.
NELSON HOSPICE The Motueka shop needs volunteers! If you would like to volunteer for us, please enquire at the shop or Ph: 035281178.
NEED AFFORDABLE COUNSELLING? Life Linc Nelson has been serving the region for 50 years and has rooms in Nelson, Richmond and Motueka. We provide low cost counselling up to 10 sessions and for anyone ages 12+. Couples counselling also avail. Contact us at www.lifelinc.co.nz or e: clinical@lifelinc. co.nz.
RUM MORRIS DANCERS. Musicians and dancers but mostly friends. Slightly random - mostly Tues evenings, sometimes Wed. Get yourself a second favourite form of aerobic exercise. Ph: Dorris 02040618088.
RADIO CONTROL SAILING Wed and Sun, 1pm onwards, Best Island. Weather permitting. IOMs and Dragon Force etc. New members welcome. Info Ph: Peter 0275443923.
MOTUEKA DISTRICT TOY LIBRARY, Tues, and Thurs, 9-11am, and Sat, 10-12pm, 44 Pah St. Annual membership $30. Hundreds of toys for all ages.
RIWAKA CROQUET CLUB, do you and a group of friends/family/workmates want to spend a fun few hours learning to play croquet? Min. of 8 players, $10 each, all equipment provided and someone from our club to help you learn the game. Full access to the clubhouse kitchen. For info Ph: 0276308910.
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.
Weekly Puzzles and Sudoku
CLASSIFIEDS
MOTUEKA TENNIS CLUB
TENNIS for ADULTS
OLD TOYS WANTED
Dinky, Fun Ho, Tonka, Matchbox Dolls, Lead Soldiers, Hornby Train + Meccano Sets SINGLE ITEMSWHOLE COLLECTIONS 0800 559 922
VINYL RECORDS WANTED
Old 1920s 1990s
Classical - Modern
Seekers, Abba, Pink Floyd and any NZ bands
SMALL - LARGE LOTS 0800 339 990
ENGLISH CHINA & NZ POTTERY WANTED
Wednesdays from 6 November
5-6 pm Beginners & Restarters
6-7 pm Advanced Players
With Australian-Trained Level 2 Professional Coach Rita Paczian Fun games, fitness & coaching
A professional mature employed person, new to the region, WANTING RENTAL ACCOMMODATION for approximately 3 - 4 months from 1 December 2024. Will consider anywhere between Richmond to the Motueka area. Would prefer a small self-contained property such as a ‘granny flat’ with separate entrance and living facilities. Would also consider a house-sit situation. All enquiries and questions welcome, please call me on Ph: 027 451 6611
1-28 DECEMBER
reliable, experienced lady, references on request. Small daily fee for quality service. Call Sheree 02102667110
web-site for details: www.tasmansoda blasting.co.nz or email office@tasman sodablasting.co.nz Ph. 022 528 8159
115sqm. Corner site. High st frontage. Large window area for display. Available 1st December. Long term tenant preferred. Reasonable rates. Contact Rowan 03 5284640 rowan@tasman canvas.co.nz
Old 1920s 1990s
Crown Lynn, Doulton, Beswick, Temuka, Royal Albert and others
SMALL - ESTATE LOTS 0800 559 922
STERLING
SILVER WANTED
Vesta Cases, Tea & Cutlery sets old trophies ANY SILVER ITEMS CONSIDERED 0800 559 922
TAXIDERMY WANTED
NZ - Exotic skins, heads, birds & mounted animals ANY CONSIDERED 0800 559 922
TOOLS WANTED
Hand garden & garage tools modern and old SMALL - ESTATE LOTS 0800 559 922
BOOKS BOOKS BOOKS WANTED
Fiction & Non-fiction Modern & Old
SMALL - ESTATE LOTS 0800 339 990
Single items, albums - estate collections modern & old ANY CONSIDERED 0800 559 922
High St Motueka
Available immediately Recently refurbished offices, meeting room and reception. Kitchenette, bathroom and store room. Reasonable rates Contact Rowan 03 5284640 rowan@tasman canvas.co.nz
MILITARY ITEMS WANTED
Badges, buttons, uniform, books & equipment modern or old ANY CONSIDERED 0800 559 922
WATCHES WANTED Wrist and pocket style, going or not, Modern & old ANY CONSIDERED 0800 559 922
FOUNTAIN PENS WANTED
Conway Stewart & Parker style ANY CONSIDERED 0800 559 922
BAYONETS, SWORDS & MILITARY KNIVES Modern and Old ANY CONSIDERED 0800 559 922 STAMPS & POSTCARDS WANTED
RUGBY PROGRAMMES, BADGES WANTED
Small to large lots ANY RUGBY MEMORABILIA CONSIDERED 0800 559 922
BANKNOTES & COINS WANTED
Pennies, Threepences and Sixpence NZ & Foreign ANY CONSIDERED 0800 559 922
CAMERAS WANTED Film type ANY CONSIDERED 0800 559 922
DEATH
BUCK
William (Bill)
Alex
The Buck and Craig families are saddened to announce the passing of William (Bill) Alex Buck
Born in the UK, Bill travelled the world.
A pilot in the British Royal Navy, Clock Maker, Engineer, Choir Director, Pianist Organist and Composer
– he retired for the 2nd time in New Zealand to become a farmer at age 75. Locals will remember Bill for his teaching and choir accompaniment with the local high school and Tasman area choirs.
A memorial concert will be held in the new year. Survived by 2 daughters, 3 grand children and a cat named Stradivarious. In lieu of flowers the family ask you plant a tree or donate to the local hospice.
NOT GETTING YOUR
Email
Boxer stars at Pan Pacific Masters Games
STEPHEN STUART
In the space of two months, Tracy Rigby has gone from being a corporate fighter in Motueka to claiming a Pan Pacific Masters title in Australia.
And those around her weren’t the least bit surprised, Tracy had played touch, netball and was an adventure racer before coming to Dixon’s Boxing in Richmond four years ago.
“I like to challenge myself,” declares the 47-year-old mother of two from Dovedale.
After plenty of sparring in the gym, she debuted on the Fight for Rangatahi card in Motueka last year and competed again in August.
Coach Randall Dixon could tell she was ready for tougher competition and urged her to go to the Pan Pacific Masters Games on the Gold Coast.
“I injured my AC joint and had a calf problem as well, but I managed them as I was determined to go,” reveals Tracy.
Her husband Keith couldn’t travel but she had lots of support from family in Brisbane.
“I was more worried about let-
ting them down than losing in the ring,” says Tracy.
She needn’t have worried. Tracy dispatched an Australian woman in her first bout in the 72.5 kilogram combat women’s class to set up an all-Kiwi final against another 47-year-old, Angela Wilson from Dunedin.
“We ended up having dinner together on the eve of the fight and she said she was going to kill me,” recalls Tracy.
Randall confirms Angela certainly talked the talk ahead of the three two-minute rounds.
An unexpected highlight for Tracy was being presented with a special New Zealand boxing singlet before the final by Motueka’s Vince Clayton. The fight itself was one way as Angela was made to eat her words, simply outclassed. While she survived two standing eight counts, her face took a hammering.
“We had lunch the day after the fight and she was pretty battered,” confirms Tracy.
Their fight was dedicated to sixtime national boxing champion Morris Tuck who represented New Zealand at the 1954 British Empire and Commonwealth
Games.
As well as winning her grade, the former accounts worker at The Guardian was adjudged the best female combat fighter at the masters games.
Randall says Tracy is a great role model for the gym as she works hard, looks after herself and doesn’t back down from the hard sparring he puts her through.
Tracy confirms it is a heavy workload.
“Training is intense alright. 20 hours a week, so I am working part-time so I can fit it in.”
She was quick to praise her ringside crew plus three women she spars with in the Richmond gym – Ashley Belk, Lydia Green and Tatiana Staples.
Tracy hopes her efforts will inspire other women to take up the sport. Her inspiration was Reefton fighter Lisa Ryan who is still competing at the age of 55, but offshore, as the cut off point in this country is 50.
“Immediately after the final, I thought I am not putting myself through this again,” says Tracy. But then there’s the Masters Golden Gloves to look forward to in Christchurch next June.
Coach Randall Dixon, left, Tracy Rigby and Piet Russon after Tracy won gold on the Gold Coast. Photo: Supplied.
