Nelson Weekly - 15 February 2023

Beach volleyballers served up perfect conditions

Union hoists battle flag in fight for workers

TRACY NEAL Open Justice Reporter

One of the unions representing Nelmac workers has made what it calls a last-ditch effort to get management to listen to its grievances which it says has caused serious injustice to its members however, Nelmac blames the union for the breakdown.

The Reunited Employees Associ-

ation (REA) has made a plea to the Employment Court to help address what it describes as injustices served on its members by the leadership of environmental management services company Nelmac.

“This is our last port of redress,” said the union’s assistant secretary Kathleen Drummond in her opening statement in the Employment court on Monday.

In November 2021 the Employment Relations Authority (ERA) found that the REA had breached the duty of good faith in its post-facilitation conduct toward Nelmac, some of whose employees are members of the REA, while others belong to a different union.

The REA has been seeking parity with wage rates and allowances in the collective agreement Nel-

mac has with another union, the Amalgamated Workers Union NZ.

The contentious issue remained problematic, the ERA said in 2021, when it also fixed the terms of the collective agreement between Nelmac and the REA.

The lawyer acting for Nelmac, Nick Mason, told Open Justice it was the first time in legal history a union has been found in breach

of good faith bargaining. The REA has now appealed the authority’s decision of November 2021 to the Employment Court, which began hearing arguments in Nelson on Monday.

Nelmac is a Nelson-based, council-controlled trading organisation that provides environmental management

SEE PAGE 2

Brad Fuller makes the most of the soft sand as he makes a diving save in the premier men’s final.

Photo: Evan Barnes/Shuttersport. See page 28.

Sales

Lauren Rameka-iti lauren@nelsonweekly.co.nz

Reuben Dudley reuben@nelsonweekly.co.nz

“David Bowie, because he had great music and was always reinventing new songs.”

Nelson has had a full summer of visiting artists, who is your favourite artist and why?

“Dan Mason, because he makes music as a form of self expression.”

“Janis Joplin, because she stands the test of time, and definitely an original.”

“Bebe

because she is unapologetically herself.”

Union hoists battle flag in fight for workers

FROM

It currently partners with the Nelson City Council, the Tasman District Council and the Marlborough District Council.

The court heard on Monday of personality clashes the union felt had emerged since the arrival of a new management regime at the company.

A gardener employed by Nelmac between 2013 and last year and a union delegate for staff working in one of Nelmac’s regional locations told the court on Monday of his shock at being told that legal costs incurred by the company would affect pay increases.

Kathleen Drummond said the union members had been “seriously disadvantaged and dis-

criminated against”.

She said there had to be some way for the union to get justice for all these problems.

“If they’re not dealt with, it will be the demise of the union,” she told the court in her opening statement.

The REA says that historically it had a “robust but productive relationship” with the Nelson City Council and then Nelmac, particularly when it came to bargaining over the terms of any collective agreement.

However, from 2017 the relationship became “fractious and problematic” as the lead negotiators for Nelmac then were not “inclined” towards the REA, the Employment Relations Authority said in its decision of 2021.

The REA said this led to unnecessary involvement of lawyers for Nelmac and a near end to any

direct communication about operations and how that informed the implementation of any collective agreement, which in turn impacted on bargaining.

The REA said as a result, bargaining and discussions about employment-related issues have been, and continue to be, extremely challenging for the REA, resulting in serious injustice to its members.

Nelmac denied the union’s position that a poor relationship had evolved and said it had not breached the collective agreement.

It also believed it had tried hard to sort out the problems.

It said while bargaining for the new collective agreement had been difficult, a stumbling block emerged while progress was being made and then the union raised a last-minute new claim

for pay increases.

Nelmac blamed the union for the impasse and said that bargaining had broken down because of its actions.

The ERA said that while it accepted Nelmac sometimes took an “aggressive and combative approach” with the REA during bargaining, particularly in the early meetings, it hadn’t had an overall impact on the progress of bargaining.

The court heard on Monday a repeat of much of the earlier argument.

The hearing was acheduled to continue this week, visit the Nelson App for updates.

Yvon Smits

Olivia Kwant

Nicholas Miedema

Sophie Miedema

Rexha,

More Kāinga Ora homes get upgrades

Nelson will soon see more Kāinga Ora homes upgraded, this time in Tāhunanui.

The former Nelson City Council-owned flats in Blackwood St will be upgraded by midJune this year and will have new insulation and fences installed, more outdoor lighting, recladding, and a change to open-plan living.

MP for Nelson, Rachel Boyack, says 14 homes in total will be upgraded, on top of the 18 homes that were recently finished on Nayland Rd.

“These upgrades are a win-win for our community with formerly run-down houses being taken off the council’s books and Kāinga Ora investing in significant upgrades to ensure all residents have warm, dry homes,” she says.

“We are now starting to see the benefits of Kāinga Ora’s ability to invest significantly in improving the quality of social housing here in Nelson, without burdening ratepayers with the cost. “It’s great to see more social housing being built and upgraded.

Kainga Ora purchased 142 community houses from Nelson City Council in 2020 for $19.8m. The council used

$12m of the proceeds to set up the Nelson City Council Housing Fund.

“I advocated for the transfer of housing to Kainga Ora so that the units could be upgraded and so that Nelson City Council could support local housing organisations like the Nelson Tasman Housing Trust and Habitat for Humanity to build more houses,” Rachel says.

A resident in one of the newly-refurbished Nayland Rd homes, who asked to be named only as Marilyn, says she feels lucky to have the improvements.

“I love it, it’s just beautiful. I’ve been living here for eight years and it’s such an improvement.

I know how lucky I am,” she says.

Marilyn, who has a serious lung condition, says her home’s previous dampness was an issue during the winter but she’s looking forward to a healthier winter in 2023.

“I go swimming every day [to help with symptoms]. The new heat pump will make everything much better,” she says. The retrofit work, which aims to improve older homes by making them warmer and drier, was also completed on the Nayland Rd complex’s other nine units in July last year. Upgrades are planned for the Blackwood St complex and two others during 2023/24.

Nayland Rd resident Marilyn is happy with her newly refurbished home. Photo: Supplied.

Man crashes outside police station

SARA HOLLYMAN

A man was rushed to hospital in critical condition on Waitangi weekend after a car he was driving crashed into a streetlight outside the Stoke Police Station – despite the best efforts of someone to stop him.

Nelson Weekly understands that the man had been at a local bar immediately prior to the incident before walking to his car.

A police spokesperson confirmed that a person has then followed the man to try and stop him driving but was unsuccessful, with the man immediately

crashing into the streetlight.

St John say they sent an ambulance and a first response unit to the scene at 8.53pm on Saturday, 4 February and took the man to Nelson Hospital in a critical condition.

A Te Whatu Ora spokesperson for Nelson Hospital says the man was transferred to Christchurch Hospital still in a critical condition, on Thursday, 9 February.

Police have confirmed that a serious crash unit attended the scene and that Bail St was closed while an investigation took place.

Police say enquiries into the incident are ongoing.

Science and Technology Precinct canned after rising costs

A hub for science and technology will no longer go ahead with parties citing financial viability and rising costs as to why they have pulled the pin on the project.

Cawthron Institute and Port Nelson Limited announced on Friday that the proposed Science and Technology Precinct at the Port will no longer proceed under the proposed concept. The vision for the precinct was to create a hub of innovation and creativity for the science and technology sectors.

The Port was to construct three office buildings to house around 1,000 knowledge workers, and Cawthron had elected to purchase a section of the site to build its new laboratories, as well as become an anchor office tenant.

However, due to the challenging economic climate, and after conducting many design variations for their respective builds to try to reduce costs, both parties have agreed the precinct is no longer financially viable.

Cawthron chief executive Volker Kuntzsch says the decision not to proceed with building its new laboratories at the site was purely based on financial viability.

“Laboratories are extremely complex to build, requiring a significant amount of specialist material. Supply chain disruptions and inflation pressures saw the projected costs almost double from $25 million to around $45 million in less than two years.”

He says, as a charitable trust, those costs were simply not feasible.

“Cawthron has existed for 100 years, and we intend to be around for 100 more – my job is to ensure our long-term viability and there was no certain way to do that with the additional level of debt”. Volker reiterated that Cawthron remained committed to the precinct until the very end.

“As the increasing build costs be-

came apparent, we decided to put our main Halifax Street campus up for sale in mid-2022 to raise some additional capital.

“Unfortunately, the tenders received did not achieve our expectations, which is ultimately a reflection of the cooling property market and meant we didn’t have the finances required to cover the increasing costs.”

Cawthron is now evaluating its options for redeveloping its main Halifax Street site, which it owns, to incorporate new laboratories.

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith says he is disappointed, but not surprised, that the organisations have been unable to commit to progressing the proposed Science and Technology Precinct given the sharp increase in interest rates and construction costs.

“The more than doubling of interest rates has had a massive impact on the commercial viability of a development estimated to cost $135 million between the two organisations.

“Other factors leading to this de-

cision not to proceed include the reduction in demand for office space with more people working from home, the sharp rise in construction costs, and the difficult trading environment affecting the profitability of both organisations.

“I am disappointed, but also understand the importance of both organisations remaining financially sound and such projects having to be commercially viable.”

Through its Long Term Plan 2021-2031, Nelson City Council consulted the public on supporting the precinct.

In 2021, it was decided this support would take the form of a $1.5m capital grant to Cawthron and a $1.2m capital grant to Port Nelson Limited.

To further assist the development, stormwater pipes from under the Wildman Avenue site were relocated to provide a clean site for development.

The capital grants were conditional on the project proceeding

and, as this has not occurred, council has not drawn down this debt.

However, the infrastructure work to relocate and upgrade the stormwater pipes has taken place at a total cost of $3.4m.

Nick says there is a conversation to be had with Port Nelson about this work and how it has benefited Port-owned land.

“While there is a wider community benefit in flood resilience from the increased capacity of these pipes, we do need to have further discussions because there has also been some benefit to this land.”

Nick says the importance of both Port Nelson and Cawthron can’t be overstated and the continued collaboration of these organisations is key for Nelson’s economic growth.

Port Nelson chief executive Hugh Morrison also says he is disappointed the precinct is not proceeding.

“The Port and Cawthron were fully committed to realising the

vision of the precinct and together we embarked on a robust due diligence process to progress the development for the science and technology sector.”

“However, all is not lost for this site. The Port will explore other potential options for development that will contribute to economic growth for our region,” said Morrison.

“I’d like to thank Nelson City Council and the Nelson Regional Development Agency for their extensive support of the precinct so far, and we look forward to continuing to work with them on alternative ideas for the site.”

Both organisations continue to work together to help Nelson Tasman become New Zealand’s ‘science and technology hub’, including supporting Moananui, a collaboration with others to accelerate the blue economy.

Port Nelson has also partnered with Cawthron to support a three-year research programme into seagrass restoration in the Nelson Haven.

A Science and Technology Precinct earmarked for the Port has been scrapped due to rising cost. Photo: Supplied.

The single-vehicle crash happend outside the Stoke Police Station. Photo: Sara Hollyman.

Conservation group welcomes review of council’s forestry

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

A local conservation group is applauding Nelson City Council for putting a pause on its commercial forestry as a new taskforce reviews council’s options.

The Right Tree Right Place Taskforce was established by council in its meeting last Thursday to consider the future of the remaining 600 hectares of council land used in plantation forestry.

Some potential options for the taskforce to consider include the adoption of mixed-cropping practices to end clearcutting practices or the permanent re-establishment of native forests. Currently, council’s commercial forestry plots are planted in Pinus radiata and spread across the Aniseed, Brook, Maitai, and Marsden Valleys.

The Friends of the Maitai conservation group has long opposed the practice of clearcutting in the Maitai Valley and applauds council for taking this step.

“We think this is great move by the council,” said representative Steven Gray. “It will help them not only make a better resource of their asset, but it might also

be a guiding beacon to other forestry operators as to how they might be able to shift from a monocropping regime to a more mixed and continuous canopy type of activity.”

Clearcutting heightens the risk of erosion in the valley and contributes to sedimentation of the Maitai River – a 2016 study commissioned by council from the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research found over 65% of the sediment in the river comes from pine forestry.

Steven suggests a mixed cropping of different tree species could be a good alternative for council which would still allow for forestry, but in a more staggered approach that wouldn’t result in the complete clearing of plots.

“We do believe that the forestry asset can still be a commercially viable asset for the council.”

Councillor Rachel Sanson has been critical of council’s forestry for several years and long pushed for a review of council’s forestry practices. She has now been appointed to the taskforce.

“I feel relieved that I stuck around and that I’ve been able to work with the new mayor and see this through,” she says.

“It’s really exciting, I feel hope-

ful that there can actually be positive change.”

The taskforce will consider the interests of the forestry industry, the economic benefit for council and the city, biodiversity and environmental health, and aesthetic benefits for residents before making its recommendations to council before the end of the year to help inform 2024-34 Long Term Plan.

“I’m really confident that we’re going to come up with some recommendations that the

community will be able to get behind and the council will support as well,” Rachel says. While the review is good news, Steven acknowledges that council’s forestry, both in the Maitai Valley and elsewhere in the region, is dwarfed by private forestry and so there was still a long way to go.

“We still have the larger issue of how to regulate pine forestry in the district, and how to go about that so it minimises harm to the river.”

Stormwater upgrade on track

The Rutherford stormwater upgrade is tracking to finish before the end of February. Over the next two weeks, Fulton Hogan will be reinstating the traffic islands and pedestrian refuge in front of Nelson College for Girls and along Rutherford St. Watermain and sewer works are being completed outside Rutherford St Kindergarten. Once this is done, they will construct the traffic island at the bottom of Bronte St. Resurfacing works are scheduled along the Waimea Rd footpath this week. To complete the asphalt resurfacing at the Van Diemen/Rutherford St intersection, the council will once again need to close one lane out of Ngatitama St. Traffic islands, line marking, and signs will also be put back in place at the Van Diemen St intersection.

Sheep attacks prompt leash reminder

Nelson City Council is reminding dog owners to keep their dogs on leashes in reserves where sheep are grazing after a spate of attacks. There have been six reported dog attacks this spring/ summer, which have resulted in three sheep being killed. Sheep are an important part of the council’s strategy to reduce fire risk on reserves. They graze on potentially flammable vegetation in areas of some reserves that are harder to maintain with mowing.

Councillor Rachel Sanson is ‘relieved’ council’s forestry will now be reviewed. Photo: Max Frethey.

Mayor concerned by potential fare confusion for new bus service

MAX FRETHEY

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith has concerns about “unfortunate timing” of the launch of the region’s new bus service and the end of the Government’s half-price public transport subsidy.

Starting on 1 July, the new bus service features a flat $2 fare for travel between Richmond and Nelson, a decrease from the current full $2.80 fare for an adult using a Bee Card. However, the Government’s half-price public transport policy lowers this price $1.40 and has been extended to 30 June.

One week of free travel is also planned as part of the bus launch to cater for the transition phase to the new service.

Though half-price fares are great news for public transport users, this means, provided the subsidy is not extended further, the improved bus service will appear to cost 60 cents more for an adult commuting from Richmond to Nelson once the free week ends.

“The implementation of the new bus service on the first of July is a huge and critical undertaking,” Nicks says. “I just think it’s not quite starting on the right note.”

Nelson City Council’s manager transport and solid waste, Marg Parfitt, acknowledged that while Government’s announcement to extend the halfprice fares sent staff “scrambling,” the bus service will still be “vastly improved.”

“It’s still going to be electric buses, increased frequency, it’s going to the airport, going to Māpua, going to Wakefield, to Motueka; it’s still a very good thing to be launching,” she says. “We’ll just have to make sure we frame our communications around that really well.”

However, Nick’s concerns weren’t assuaged.

“I think we should discuss some options,” he says.

“This is a new development, it’s caught us a bit flat-foot-

ed, and we should think about the implications.” Options he raised included asking the Government to extend the half-price fares for Nelson-Tasman, even for only a month or two, if the subsidy isn’t extended nationally, or delaying the launch of the new bus service.

Nelson MP Rachel Boyack said she was surprised to hear of the mayor’s concerns as they hadn’t been raised with her but says that a delay in the launch of the bus service would be “unacceptable” given the “millions of dollars” of financial contribution from both central and local government.

She also reiterated that the half-price fares were part of the government’s response to the cost-of-living crisis.

“The Government has committed to continue assessing our needs around the cost of living and will always be assessing those throughout the year.”

Rachel has joined parliament’s transport and infrastructure select committee following changes to select committee membership last week.

“I asked to join this committee because of the impact of transport policy on Nelson,” she says. “We have some real challenges with our transport network, particularly in Richmond.”

Rachel moved to Nelson in 2009 and soon began lobbying for better public transport options; first to NCC as student president at the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology, and later to Government as the region’s member of parliament. “I’ve been lobbying for this for what feels like most of my adult life, so just knowing that we’re going to have these frequent bus services starting, I’m really delighted.”

Stoke School gets fruity

KATE RUSSELL

It’s Monday morning at Stoke School and there is a special delivery that the tamariki are looking forward to - 200 pieces of fruit.

One piece of fruit for every pupil, plus a few extras for staff, are delivered to the school twice a week as part of the Fruit in Schools (FIS) initiative. This particular delivery is apples, which puts a smile on eightyear-old Tayla Hambrook’s face.

“I like the apples, they are very juicy,” she says.

Stoke School and Victory Primary School are the only schools in Nelson that receive the fruit, as being a decile 1 or 2 school is part of the criteria for joining.

Stoke School principal Sarah Davies says the FIS has been running for the entire 14 years she has been there.

“It’s just run continuously. It’s a great programme. It was one of the first healthy eating initiatives and it’s good for our kids because they have access to fresh fruit all year round.

“Fruit isn’t always accessible to children and can be very expensive. They look forward to their fruit and are disappointed if there isn’t any.”

Tamariki have the opportunity to try more than two dozen fruit and vegetable varieties during the school year.

“We’ve had strawberries, pineapple, cherry tomatoes, little cucumbers, and we get a good base of oranges, apples, and bananas,” says Sarah.

Sarah says the initiative complements the Ministry of Education’s Ka Ora, Ka Ako - Healthy School Lunches programme, which they receive.

“For kids who are hungry, the fruit can also top them up. If they come in after a huge run around at morning tea and want something to eat, then we’ve got fruit, which is perfect.”

The FIS initiative is funded by Te Whatu Ora, managed by United Fresh, and supported by the 5+ A Day Charitable Trust.

Chair of the trust, David Smith, says that FIS provides critical nutrition

for tamariki as inflation hits many whānau in the pocket.

“It’s no secret that families throughout the Nelson region are doing it tough this year. FIS is a great way to ensure the healthy kai grown on orchards and farms around the country gets to where it’s most needed.”

Nine out of 10 principals enrolled in the initiative say their children’s overall health would decline if FIS ended, according to 5+ A Day Trustee, Dr Carolyn Lister.

“Our research found that 70 per cent of parents said that their child liked eating fruit more because of FIS, and 37 per cent said they like eating vegetables more.”

Sarah adds that the fruit not only provides a healthy dose of vitamin C but plenty of learning opportunities, too. “Some use it as an opportunity to practice their te reo - asking for and receiving the fruit and naming the fruit in te reo. Some will have it with a story, and there is always the component of taking the time to talk about good eating,” she says.

Stoke School eight-year-olds, from left, Tayla Hambrook, Forte Conner, and Shardayah Kingi-Hawken, enjoying apples from the Fruit in Schools programme. Photo: Kate Russell.

TRAVEL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS: The Celestielle Charitable Trust have announced the winners of their annual travel scholarship. In Term 3 of this year, a group of 12 Year 13 students will travel to Southeast Asia for a trip of a lifetime. Three winners have been chosen per school - Nayland College, Nelson College for Girls and Nelson College. From Nayland College is Peter Gray, Astrid Sayer, Isla Swanney and Amy Wilson. From Nelson College for Girls is Genevieve Busby, Isabela Collins, Petra Graney and Freya High. From Nelson College is Ethan Carde, Edward Henderson, Fergus McNeilly and Manaia Roberts. This is the second year the scholarship has been running and John Ziegler and Doug Easton from the trust say that more than 100 students applied.

Nick Smith

New chair for Sealord board

Sealord Group Limited has announced that Jamie Tuuta wil replace Whaimutu Dewes as the company’s board chair from 1 April.

Whaimutu, of Ngāti Porou and Ngati Rangitihi descent, was deputy chair of Sealord for 16 years and has been chair of the board since 2016 but will retire on 31 March. He has served in a number of seafood related roles, including former chair of Moana New Zealand and spent the first 10 years on the Treaty of Waitangi Fisheries Commission.

Moana Board chair and Sealord director Rachel Taulelei says the board would like to acknowledge Whaimutu’s more than thirty years of service to Sealord and the wider Iwi fisheries sector.

“Whaimutu is part of the bedrock of Māori fisheries and has provided unquestionably strong guidance, leadership, and commercial acumen during his time in fisheries governance,” she says. “ I have no doubt we will continue to have Whaimutu’s support as we continue his legacy.”

Whaimutu says it’s been a

privilege to serve on the board of Sealord.

“Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, ko taku toa te toa takitini.

“As with all service, that comes with challenges and the rewards that meeting the challenges provide.

“As the proverb above spells out, all success is derived by working together and I am confident that Sealord will continue to provide sound leadership in each and all of the areas that have an interface with our communities.”

Jamie, of Ngāti Mutunga, Ngāti Tama, Ngāti Maru, Te

Cadets earn their wings

JACK MALCOLM

Two lucky cadets from Nelson’s 23 Squadron ATC were given the opportunity to get hands-on learning last month.

Caitlin Cameron and Grant Bell travelled to the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s Woodbourne base to spend almost two weeks learning the ropes. Grant was selected for the power flying course, which is the theory and practical instruction of aviation, while Caitlin was selected for the navigation course.

With only 18 spots in Caitlin’s course and 36 in Grant’s for cadets across the country, the pair were incredibly thankful for the opportunity.

While they did have to pay for some of the course, it was

heavily subsidised by sponsors of the programme from the aviation industry.

“We calculated it and I used probably about $5000 in fuel alone. The aircraft I was flying was burning 36 litres an hour,” says Grant.

He paid $1000 for the course, which also included lodging in barracks and use of the base’s amenities like the swimming pool.

They were also fed three meals a day, with the quality of the food being a standout to both cadets.

Other highlights for the pair were the social aspect of living and training with like-minded cadets, learning new things and the opportunity to put what they’d just learnt into practice in the real world.

Ati Awa, Taranaki Tūturu descent, is an experienced director with deep commercial and governance experience across various industries and sectors.

Currently chair of Maori Television and Tourism New Zealand and a director of Moana New Zealand as well as a number of other boards, Jamie is committed to the broader iwi commercial landscape and is passionate about iwi success in the fisheries space. He was formerly chair of Te Ohu Kaimoana for nine years until 2020.

“It’s really cool when you get to go in the plane and see that it actually works,” says Caitlin.

“It was another opportunity to do something different. It’s not something you do in civilian life.”

Grant says his ambitions are to fly NH90s for the Air Force, the largest helicopter in New Zealand’s fleet.

“They do a wide range, including search and rescue. It’d be different scenery every flight.”

Caitlin says her goals are “slightly different”, wanting to pursue engineering as a career with ideas to be a combat engineer. Nelson’s 23 Squadron ATC are currently recruiting for their next batch of cadets for the year, with open days on Saturday, 25 February and Wednesday, 1 March.

Grant Bell and Caitlin Cameron were among the handful of cadets from around the country who were selected from Nelson’s 23 Squadron ATC for a recent hands-on course at Woodbourne.

Photo: Jack Malcolm.

New board chair Jamie Tuuta.

Photo: Supplied.

Ex Nelson council chief awarded $270k after Tasman council wrongly signs off pool

ETHAN GRIFFITHS Open Justice Reporter

The former chief executive of Nelson City Council has been paid awarded more than a quarter of a million dollars after taking the Tasman District Council to court over what it said unlawful swimming pool – despite signing off on it twice.

TDC has been described by a judge as negligent for not only issuing the building consent and Code of Compliance in the first place - but not picking up the fact it was non-compliant on two subsequent inspections.

Keith Marshall and Louise Buchanan have been awarded nearly $270,000, after TDC twice signed off the couple’s in-ground pool, only to say it was unlawful when the house was placed on the market seven years later. Their lawyer says the total award is likely to be higher once legal costs are considered.

According to a High Court decision, the high-end award-winning Wakefield home was issued a code compliance certificate (CCC) in 2006 - prior to the cou-

ple purchasing the property.

In 2008, shortly after Marshall was appointed the chief executive of Nelson City Council, the pair purchased the home via a family trust.

The couple said they would not have purchased the home without the CCC, especially due to Marshall’s “reputational reasons”.

In 2009, the council required the property’s pool to be registered. An officer inspected the pool both that year and later in 2012, examining locks and latches on the home’s doors, which were deemed compliant.

All was well until 2019, when, preparing for retirement, the couple put the property on the market.

A council officer came to again inspect the pool, finding it was not compliant as the property’s doors were not self-closing or alarmed.

The couple wrote to the council expressing concern with the previous inspections. The council wrote back, advising them that the doors adjacent to the pool were not compliant with the Building Act. The letter did not

state that the pool required fencing.

The couple took the property off the market, seeking a determination under the Building Act via the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).

In late 2020, the ministry determined the doors were not compliant and additionally, fencing was required. The couple complied, erecting fences around the pool.

The couple could not challenge the issuing of the original CCC in 2006 due to a 10-year limitation within the Building Act.

Instead, they launched proceedings against the council in respect of the 2009 and 2012 inspections, claiming they were conducted negligently and because they identified no issues with the fencing. That meant they never had an opportunity to launch proceedings against the CCC within the statutory time frame.

At a trial last year, the council’s lawyer Simon Waalkens said during

cross-examination of Buchanan that the council apologised for the incorrectly issued CCC.

But the council denied it had any duty of care in protecting the couple from financial loss as claimed. Waalkens submitted financial loss is a foreseeable result of damage due to a consent or CCC being issued when it should not have been. But he argued the foreseeable loss of a failed pool inspection is not financial and instead relates to the risk of harm to a child who could gain unsupervised access to the pool.

The couple provided evidence from John Hancock, the chair of the New Zealand Property and Valuation Standards Board, who estimated a 25 per cent reduction in the amenity value of the property due to the new fencing now required around the pool, which he described as “architectural excellence butchered”.

The council’s own valuer deemed the loss of value at a lesser rate.

Acting for the couple, lawyer Andrew Shaw submitted that pool owners are clearly owed the duty just as much as children under the age of six.

Justice Matthew Palmer concluded it was reasonably foreseeable

that if an inspection does not identify a breach, the property owner would not be aware there was a breach. He also concluded the council did not take reasonable skill or care in undertaking the inspection.

It was reasonably foreseeable, Palmer said, that remediation of a non-compliant pool barrier could affect a property’s amenity value. Justice Palmer ruled the council was negligent in issuing both the building consent and CCC, undertaking the 2009 and 2012 inspections, and representations made to the couple.

A Tasman District Council spokesperson did not respond to questions as to whether it accepted the judgment.

“We have since made structural changes to the way we monitor swimming pools within the regulations. Beyond these points, the council is currently considering the implications of this decision and is not in a position to comment further at this time.”

The swimming pool at the centre of the Nelson couple’s award-winning home was its most valuable feature. Photo: Supplied.

More upgrades on their way for Maitai camp

manager is constantly in communication with long-term residents.”

The Maitai Valley Motor Camp has seen a series of upgrades since Nelson City Council took over management of the site last year.

The toilet blocks have been refurbished, fire safeguards have been installed, a new waste management system has been established, and the campsites have been more clearly marked, confirmed council’s group manager community services Andrew White.

He adds there are also further infrastructure plans for additional utility development, landscaping, and a cultural impact assessment and monitoring.

“We know there has been a lot of change since council took on management, and the camp

The camp was allocated $2.1 million by council last year to upgrade the wastewater system which is over 60 years old and in need of replacement, make other infrastructure upgrades to help the camp meet compliance requirements, and generally improve services at the camp.

“Council has taken the time to investigate multiple options for the camp’s wastewater system to meet compliance,” Andrew says.

Concept designs for the physical works required to upgrade the wastewater system have now been completed and the resource consent needed to begin the work will be lodged later this month.

“Once the consent is granted,

we will be able to commence more detailed design work, which will determine the final budget,” Andrew says. “Though we expect our initial funding allocation to be sufficient.”

While the wastewater has been non-compliant, the camp has been operating at a reduced capacity of 80 campers at any one time.

“Our first priority is to ensure current long-term residents can continue to live at the camp while works are underway and that their living areas are compliant,” Andrew says. “Once this is achieved, council will be able to assess the long-term strategic possibilities for the camp.”

Cuppa for an ovarian cancer cure

JO KENT

It’s been eight years since one member of the South Island Waimea soroptimists was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, so the fundraising theme for their project this year hits very close to home.

Secretary for the group, Annette Smith, says the NZ Soroptimists choose a project to support every two years and this year is solely focused on ovarian cancer charities.

“Our club has had a bad run with ovarian and gynae cancer. Two of our members died and we currently have one lovely lady who has exhausted all treatment and her time is limited, so we are fully behind fundraising for such an im-

portant cause.”

The majority of women have none or very vague symptoms and by the time it is diagnosed, it is usually too far advanced for meaningful treatment.

“With five to six women diagnosed every single week in New Zealand, we are aiming to raise awareness of the prevalence of ovarian cancer.”

Their next fundraiser is ‘Cuppa for a Cure’ with guest speaker Dr Kate Gregory, consultant medical oncologist from Nelson Hospital, is on Saturday 25 February at 10am at the Holy Trinity Church on Dorset Street, Richmond.

“This project is raising funds for research of this silent killer, and any money we raise

will be shared between K9 Medical Detection

NZ, Cure Our Ovarian Cancer NZ and Talk Peach Gynaecological Foundation.”

The SI Waimea soroptimists recently donated $308 to K9 Medical Detection NZ, specifically for their ovarian cancer work. The charity is training dogs to sniff

urine to detect early ovarian cancer.

Since 2000, the government has funded a total of $550,000 in ovarian cancer specific research to improve its survival rate.

Tickets for Cuppa for a Cure cost $15 and you can get yours by emailing siwaimea@siswp.org or calling 027 345 1092.

SI Waimea soroptimists Annette Smith and Lenore Heather are hoping the fundraiser will also raise awareness of ovarian cancer. Photo: Jo Kent.

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

A lot of upgrades have come to the Maitai Valley Motor Camp since Nelson City Council took over management last year, but more are to come. Photo: File.

Diana

Sophie

Eugenia

Nic

Anne

Waitangi Day and Cost of Living MP

On Waitangi Day I reflected on how lucky I was as a young girl to spend time on marae, learning waiata and about Te Tiriti o Waitangi Because of actions of the Crown, many Māori people haven't had the opportunity to grow up knowing their own culture As a Government, our job is to keep working to correct these wrongs, no matter how long it takes As another Waitangi day has passed, please take a moment to reflect on the significance of Waitangi Day, and the mahi (work) we still have to do

A lot has happened recently I wanted to make sure that you’d heard about the measures we re putting in place to help people here in Nelson with the cost of living Labour is focused on the bread and butter issues that matter most to New Zealanders – and that’s why we’ve signaled a new direction for our Government and our priorities this year

We've extended the fuel tax cut discounted road user charges and half price public transport until 30 June 2023 We’re further increasing the minimum wage, lifting it in line with inflation from 1 April In tough times, it’s critical to support those who struggle most to make ends meet, and right now, low income families in our community need this support more than ever

All of these decisions show the new direction our Government is taking, as we deliver on our commitment to focus on the issues that matter most to New Zealanders in the here and now

Caitlin Williams and Jess Jacobson

Chris Leighton, Nathan Dunn, Chris Dunn and Tracey Black

Marks and Mike Jukes

(10), Jon-Henri and Ryan Quin (12)

and Bob Stephenson

Foster and Yolande Tzinavos

Fermin Padilla and Robert and Eniko Fekete JR Richardson, Amanda Raine and Stu Dalton

Rush and Rebecca Leach

Mark Christensen and James Donaldson

Nelson Better Home & Living Show 2023

Presentation of new foyer colours at the Theatre Royal - 8 February

Nelmac Kūmānu ride into bike challenge

KATE RUSSELL

Nelson workplaces are being encouraged to swap their cars for bikes this month, as the Aotearoa Bike Challenge rolls through February.

One 10-minute journey by bike is all it takes to participate, and the number of rides clocked up by a team contributes towards the efforts of the organisation as a whole.

Those who sign up will compete against each other to see who can get the most staff to ride a bike during the challenge - and it’s not about who can ride the most kilometres, but who can encourage the most people to give cycling a try.

Nelmac Kūmānu is one Nelson workplace leading the charge in the challenge and is currently coming fifth in the nationwide 200 - 499 staff category. As of Monday, they had clocked up 492 rides and 5,864 kilometres.

They have 50 riders currently participating throughout their Nelson, Tasman, and Marlborough locations, led by current ‘workplace champion’ Matt Clark.

“Nelmac Kūmānu is always eager to participate in the Aotearoa Bike Challenge each year, our values align with those of the challenge,” Matt says.

He says they have joined in pri-

marily to expand their mental and physical health and fitness, while also reducing their carbon footprint.

The challenge has also provided a “fun and healthy competition” for staff and encourages interactions with people from other divisions

who may not otherwise interact daily.

“Our team of cyclists is putting in the hard yards with consistent rides and 17 of our team having cracked 100 kilometres so far in the challenge,” Matt adds.

“Most of our workforce already

have highly physical roles, so taking on this extra activity through this challenge is worth acknowledging.”

And the challenge provides some ongoing benefits, too.

“Each year we see people continue to cycle after the challenge,

which grows our pool of cyclists and increases our company’s overall health and fitness.”

As of Monday, 2,664 workplaces and 18,022 riders have signed up for the challenge nationwide. Find out more about the challenge at www.lovetoride.net/nz

Detectorist on the search for metal treasures

ANNE HARDIE

The best part about being a detectorist for Karl Borgfeldt is finding someone’s precious jewellery and in the past few weeks he has returned two rings to their relieved owners.

Using his trusty metal detector, he was called upon to find a wedding ring belonging to an elderly woman who had lost it swimming at Kina Beach.

The previous week he found another wedding ring at Rabbit Island, that had slipped off an elderly woman’s finger.

He has even donned a wetsuit in the past at Lake Rotoroa to retrieve a ring that flew off a woman’s finger and was picked up by a duck that then dropped it in the lake’s chilly depths.

In the Kina Beach find, an elderly couple were swimming when she realised her ring had slipped off. Karl says, her husband lined the spot up with points on the land and paced it to the shore, so knew the general whereabouts of the lost ring.

They found Karl on Neighbourly, and he was able to find the ring within 10 minutes, buried under

sand at low tide.

“It was her mother’s wedding ring and her own wedding ring melted down and made into one ring, so it was very special,” Karl says. “I love doing things like that.”

At Rabbit Island, the wedding ring was lost on a Saturday and he found it in the sand the following Wednesday and was able

to return it to the woman.

“I got a massive hug from her. She had been married 30 years and her husband had passed away 10 years earlier.”

He has searched the peak of Mt Arthur for a lost ring – once in snow and returning in summer –but was unable to find that one.

He did bring back all the metal rubbish he found though, like tear tabs off cans, bottle tops and squashed cans.

“Everywhere I go I bring the trash back home. Tear tabs can sound similar to silver or gold, so you come home with a lot of tear tabs and it’s cleaning up the area.”

The metal detector has a different sound for each metal, which usually helps sort out the interesting items from old pipes and metals of no value.

Most of his detecting is around old houses, searching for historical pieces such as old coins.

His best finds to date include 1934 and 1936

half crowns and a shilling, which he says would have added up to a week’s wage for someone back then. He also has a 1911 metal baby’s whistle/rattle which has its maker’s mark on it.

“For me it’s about older coins and saving bits of history.”

But it is becoming harder to find ‘permissions’ to dig.

He keeps an eye on older properties being subdivided, where he can get permission to go in and search the area for old relics buried in the soil.

Karl says he is one of an increasing number of people getting out and about with metal detectors, with many joining Nelson Metal Detectorist on Facebook.

Front from left, are Nelmac Kūmānu team members Paul Henare, Jacqui Rawson, and Matt Clark, who are driving the Aotearoa Bike Challenge for the company, with other team participants at the back.

Photo: Kate Russell.

Detectorist Karl Borgfeldt with the tools of his trade that have found many precious items.

Photo: Anne Hardie.

Have your say:

sara@topsouthmedia.co.nz

facebook.com/nelsonweekly

Wow! That’s awesome! I just wish everything about education in our country was free.

Nancy Holden

I love this!

Gemma Todd

Auckland Point did this 20 years ago. Was amazing. Not sure if they still do.

Sarah Mitchell

Cooper’s plant collection continues to grow

This is so cool to see, Cooper! Still remember you, Hannah and Briar as my plant-watering monitors in room 20!

Roxanne McDougall

Love this! Resourceful young man, love to know your top 15 if you had to pick.

Jacinda Stevenson

Nice, Cooper. So glad I’m one of those “friend’s Mums”

Michelle Butler

Awesome Cooper, you’ve done a great

job!

Fran Beullens

I’d be keen to buy some cuttings when you decide to sell.

Ebony Begg

Aww heck yeah. I’ll support his business.

Galoyan Smith

Go Cooper. What an amazing selection of plants.

Alison Frohlich Payne

Christmas

campaign

raises $42k for hospice

Thank you to the staff at both Farmers stores, our wonderful volunteers and all that gave in the region. Thank you for enabling us to continue to provide free specialist palliative care to approximately 240 patients and their families/whānau a month in the Nelson and Tasman region.

Nelson Tasman Hospice

Kittens and pups take over SPCA

It actually needs to be cheaper for

people to get their animals fixed! We had our female dog fixed just before Christmas and it was expensive! If they want animal owners to be more responsible, maybe make it not so expensive to fix them.

Janine and Graham

Nelsonians not onboard with STV and ward system

Māori Wards are a step towards justice. Democracy with a large disparity in racial numbers is like two lions and a gazelle discussing what to have for lunch. The reason why the referendum for euthanasia won was because older white people vote and that is the same reason the weed one lost.

Anne

Smith

Change it back, Nick.

Peter

Spooner

Well, not surprised this article is based on a pakeha poll because that is the very reason why the Māori Wards work well for Māori, as it should....leave it alone, Nick!

Daughter of man killed in cycling accident says anger a ‘wasted emotion’

I was there that day. I provided Tom with the first aid he received prior to the arrival of the ambulance and that has stayed with me. Seeing the horror and distraught from Aaron and his daughter was also tragic. I held Tom’s hand as we waited for the ambulance and I kept him talking. One small mistake, a moment of lack of awareness and so many lives were impacted. All my empathy for Tom’s loved ones.

Katie Mincher

So sad. Ebikes are super fast, so many times I am driving in town and an ebike passes me. I feel for both families.

Bernie Goldsmith

Sending my love to Heather and family. Tom was an absolute treasure. I had so much fun working with you both on your adventures. What a wonderful man Tom was, full of energy and stories. A smile that would light up the office.

Amanda Cuff

Upcoming Talking Cafés

Tuesday 21st February 10-11 30am

McCashin s Brewery, 660 Main Road Stoke

Wednesday 22nd February 1 30-3pm

Halifax Café, 28 Halifax Street, Nelson

Tuesday 7th March 10-11 30am

McCashin s Brewery, 660 Main Road Stoke

Thursday 9th March 1 30-3pm

Nightingale Library, 2 Beach Road, Tāhunanui

Tuesday 14th March 1 30-3pm

Richmond Library, 280 Queen Street, Richmond

For more details: wellby.org.nz

or phone (03) 546 7681

Kahurangi Hippolite

RAI VALLEY A&P SHOW

RAI VALLEY A&P SHOW Enter

4 March 2023

4 March 2023

Fun for everyone - amusements, food stalls

Fun for everyone - amusements, food stalls

Rai Challenge - carry a pig around an obstacle course

Rai Challenge - carry a pig around an obstacle course

Really Young Farmer competition - kids give it a go

Really Young Farmer competition - kids give it a go

Equestrian events including show jumping

Equestrian events including show jumping

Wood chopping

Wood chopping

Vintage vehicles, trade sites

Vintage vehicles, trade sites

Memberships

Want to enter? schedule on website www.raivalleyshow.co.nz

+

www.raivalleyshow.co.nz

Annie Crummer ‘excited’ to perform at Opera in the Park

SARA HOLLYMAN

One of New Zealand’s most successful artists will grace the stage at Opera in the Park on Saturday.

Annie Crummer rose to success in the early 80s when she was just 18-years-old. Her hit songs ‘See What Love Can Do’ and ‘Language’ are still widely listened to today.

She says she is “excited” to perform in front of a Nelson crowd, which will see her sing alongside the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra and Stan Walker at Trafalgar Park on Saturday.

“As a singer, not an opera singer, I do my own thing, but when you get the opportunity to luxuriate over the foundation of an orchestra it lifts you to a different cloud,” she says. “Singers don’t get opportunity as much to sing with an orchestra.”

She says she has loved every gig she has ever performed in Nelson, which has been with a huge variety of artists and bands of all different genres.

“I love Nelson, I’ve always loved it,” she says.

She mentions Nelson Centre for Music and Arts as something she’s always been impressed by. “That music school, holy hell there’s some ninjas down there.”

She says one of the most memorable times in her career was touring Australia with English

musician Sting.

“I was doing support for his tour, and he came out and watched my opening night. He then asked me if I’d come on stage and do a song with him,” she recalls.

“He was promoting Mercury Falling, man I love that album.”

She says while she was expecting to simply provide back up vocals of ‘ooohs and aaahs’, he actually wanted to sing a duet with her.

“He wanted me to sing ‘Let Your Soul Be Your Pilot’ with him. My manager and I, I don’t even think we were listening, we thought we were dreaming. I said, ‘of course Mr Sting’,” Annie laughs. “We hopped in our van and then we

screamed, we were so happy.”

The week was full-on for Annie, after finishing with Sting, she then flew to join Jimmy Barnes on his tour for a night before heading back to New Zealand to open for Michael Jackson the next day.

She says she felt immense pride in what she was accomplishing at the time.

“I’m from west Auckland and having the time of my life,” she recalls of the week.

Annie still isn’t sure if that was as good as it will get for her.

“Maybe I haven’t done the ultimate yet, I don’t know what that is.”

We need your lemons

JO KENT

When life gives you lemons, make cheesecake, says Kai with Love founder Abigail Packer.

“We’ve had the kind offer from the NMIT culinary department to make lemon cheesecake for us as part of their course, which we will then put in our food boxes and distribute to those in the need in the region. But for that we need a lot of lemons.”

Over the next three weeks, the

Kai with Love team will be processing the lemons in order for the zest and juice to be ready for an early March production date.

“The students will be mass producing the cheesecakes for us, so we need huge amounts of lemons to get enough juice.

We’d be grateful for anything people are able to provide, be it store bought or home grown, we’ll take them all.

“Kai with Love kitchen volunteers have previously made

lemon cheesecake and the feedback from our recipients is that it was delicious, so when [NMIT] asked us what we’d like them to make this term, we suggested they make the cheesecake for us and they jumped at the chance.”

If you think you can help, drop your lemons to the Kai with Love base of operations at Richmond Community Church in Waring car park off Queen Street between 10am3pm, Monday to Friday.

She says she still loves performing at charity gigs and fundraising events.

“Kaupapa (principle) has always been very important for me, if the kaupapa is right, I’ll make it work so I can be there.”

Annie is dyslexic and says she can’t read or write music but credits that to being more in-tune with the music itself. She has some advice for young people who question whether they can be who they want to be.

“It’s absolutely doable,” she says. “It’s almost aggressive, the determination and confidence to be whoever you want to be now.”

She says she feels honoured that

people still listen to her music and she can still reach the younger generation, particularly with her song ‘Language’.

“When I sing the intro all in cook island reo, it calls the people in,” she says. “So many schools do versions of it now and they send it to me and I just bawl my eyes out.”

She says the songs weren’t written with the thought that they would still be listened to two decades later.

“You just do what’s sincerest in your heart. If you can feel the warmth and love, then you’ve got it.”

She says she feel lucky to have the gift of music in her life.

“I’m so lucky I have the music in my DNA, my grandmother used to sing at church and I was lucky enough to get some left overs.” She says she’s never had a job, just music.

“This is all I’ve ever done. Music is the perfect nourishment its everything, if I don’t have it, I’ve got nothing.”

She promises a good surprise for those attending Saturday’s Opera in the Park.

“We’ve got a little surprise.”

NZ Sotheby’s International Realty Nelson Opera in the Park is at Trafalgar Park on Saturday, 18 February, at 5.30pm. Tickets and information are on the Nelson App.

Kai with Love, assisted by volunteers Cicilia Wardhana and Ruth Stillwell, are hoping the community can help. Photo: Supplied.

Annie Crummer is looking forward to performing in front of a Nelson crowd. Photo: Natalie Slade.

ALLIANCE – SEASONAL TEAM MEMBERS

Are you looking to earn some good money while you learn new skills? Right now, our Nelson plant is gearing up for a big 2022- 2023 season with a number of opportunities available. If you’ve got experience doing the mahi - awesome, give us a shout, but if you’ll be coming in fresh and just keen to learn and earn - that’s good too, we can train you up! We’re recruiting Butchers, Boners, Halal Slaughterers, and Labourers.

Ngā painga - what’s in it for you?

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

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

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

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

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

• Up to 7 months of full-time seasonal employment

• Upskill yourself with an opportunity to gain NZQA qualifications

• Receive ongoing training and support

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

• Access to our free employee assistance programme

Ō pūkenga - about you

• You are eligible to work in New Zealand

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

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

• You enjoy working within a team environment

• You are physically fit, committed, and reliable Apply online at www.alliancejobs.co.nz, by emailing nelson.botas@alliance.co.nz, or visit us at the Nelson Plant, 910 Main Rd Stoke, 7011.

Find out more at www.alliance.co.nz

Looking for the latest property?

Airport opens up runway for fundraiser

SARA HOLLYMAN

Nelson Airport is opening its runway to the public as part of a child cancer fundraiser this month.

The sunset runway walk will raise funds to go towards the airport fire team’s Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge later this year.

Airport fire officer Murray Hart has spearheaded the event’s organization and says he hopes to raise $3000.

“My colleague Matt van der Heyden and I have done the challenge regularly over the past years and are looking forward to doing it again this year.”

Murray says if they can each raise $1500, it will give them automatic entry into this year’s event, rather than going into the ballot.

“It’s very hard to get in, every year more and more people want to do it,” he says of the Sky Tower Challenge.

“It’s probably the hardest thing we will ever do, it pretty much go as hard as you can until you get to the top, so you’re in oxygen deficiency all the time.”

Murray says the challenge raises vital funds for Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand. In 2022 more than $1.3 million was raised.

The 1500m long runway at Nelson Airport will open to

the public on Saturday 25 February at around 8pm.

“It’s very hard to get on the runway, we’ve got a pretty tight flight schedule, this is something that will be new and different to the Nelson public,” Murray says.

He says visitors don’t have to walk the entire runway and can simply come and have a look around. The airport’s firetrucks will be on display during the event including the new $1.4 million Rosenbauer Panther.

Those wishing to attend are asked to meet in the airport’s main carpark. Participants will be provided with a free parking ticket to exit the carpark.

Jazz music has come to the Founders Heritage Park green for regular Sunday sessions throughout summer. Nelson Jazz Club bands will play both modern songs and a few classics thrown in. Bands will play most Sundays from 12.30-2.30pm through to 12 March with a $2 entry. Last Sunday saw the sun shining and people up dancing. Photo: Bobby Nijssen.

Nelson Airport fire members Matt van der Heyden and Murray Hart are opening up the tarmac for locals to walk on later this month. Photo: Sara Hollyman.

Have you given birth in the last two years at Nelson Hospital or the Motueka Birthing Unit?

We need your help.

Apply to become our Maternity Health Services Advocate

We’re looking for a person in the Nelson region who would like to use their experience to improve maternity health services in the Nelson Tasman region.

Be a voice for the community

This position helps promote equity and ensure services are organised around the needs of our local community. You will help enhance the consumer experience and service integration across the maternity sector.

We’re looking for a passionate advocate who:

• Has given birth in the last 2 years at Nelson Hospital or Motueka Birthing Unit.

• Can attend meetings and have the confidence to speak up in a group setting. Meetings may be held during or outside of usual business hours, in person or via Zoom.

• Will communicate and share developments with whānau, other mums in the community and relevant groups.

• Is be available to review, comment and give feedback on documents, brochures and processes related to maternity services in Nelson to guide developments and initiatives which will enhance the health service delivery.

• Has access to a device with internet.

You will be working with another consumer member from the Marlborough District and the wider Consumer Council team who will be there to help mentor and guide you.

We’re

are you?

and shine, because the Aotearoa Bike Challenge is back this February! Riding a bike is a great way to enjoy time outdoors with friends and family, get into nature, and protect your local environment by leaving the car at home.

OUR NELSON

Council's Right Tree Right Place Taskforce coming at the right time

At its meeting on Thursday 9 February, Council approved the creation of the Right Tree Right Place Taskforce to evaluate future options for Nelson City Council’s 600 hectares of plantation forest in the Maitai, Brook, Roding and Marsden valleys.

It will evaluate potential forestry options and their socio-economic and ecological impacts on the region for the next 25–30 years and make recommendations to the full Council.

Terms of reference for the Taskforce are being developed, with the intention they will provide scope to examine a range of forest options and their socioeconomic and ecological values for Nelson city and the wider region. Establishing processes to draw on a wide range of skills, experiences and views will be an important part of the Taskforce’s work, as will using the findings of several recent Council forestry reports.

“Forestry management is a complex issue, requiring ongoing assessment of its impacts on the environment, the local economy, and recreation and tourism for our region,” says Nelson Mayor Nick Smith.

“People are rightly passionate about the issue, and it is essential Council considers a variety of viewpoints before making a decision that impacts the region for the next quarter-century planting cycle."

Mayor Nick says the Right Tree Right Place Taskforce is named deliberately to indicate the

way forward needs to be tailored to each of the specific forestry stands. “My goal in establishing this Taskforce is to create an objective group that will consider all of these priorities in line with sound scientific and technical advice and ultimately recommend to Council the best way forward in managing its land.”

Taskforce lead and former Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment Dr Morgan Williams says there is no easy or one-size-fits-all solution for forestry management.

“Forests are a very important part of the region’s resilience, as a timber resource, carbon sink, for recreation and conservation, and landscape protection.

“How people relate to and feel about the environment around them has a huge impact on how different groups determine priorities for the management of natural capital and long-term sustainability.

“It’s an honour to lead the Taskforce, and I look forward to working with Nelson City Council to recommend ways forward for the region.”

Councillor and Taskforce member Rachel Sanson

Cinda Williams with her dog, Dixie, and Fiona Pitcaithly with her horse, Bingley Zenith, are among those who will be remembering the millions of animals that died in war this Purple Poppy Day. Bring your animal and join them at 6pm on Friday 24 February at the Marsden Valley RSA Lawn Cemetery. Wear your purple poppy, or just something purple.

says she has heard from many in our community concerned about the impact of Council’s production forestry.

“The August 2022 weather event really highlighted the risks we are facing as a community from increased rainfall due to climate change – especially from erosion, flooding and sedimentation.

“I am really appreciative of Mayor Nick's openness to considering this issue and hope the Taskforce will put forward recommendations Council and the community can embrace.”

Dr Williams and Councillor Sanson will be joined by Councillor Matthew Benge on the Taskforce and will also jointly recommend two additional non-Council members with relevant industry and environmental expertise to round out the group. The Taskforce’s recommendations to Council will be considered later this year so any change in policy can be included in the Council’s consultation on the Long Term Plan 2024-34.

Council’s previous work on forestry and resulting reports, which the Taskforce will assess as part of its recommendation process, are now available for the public to view at:

Get Census 2023 help at the library

Census Day 2023 is Tuesday 7 March and staff at Nelson Public Libraries are here to help.

Census forms started being sent from Monday 13 February, and must be completed on or before 7 March. The library is holding three drop-in sessions for those who require assistance to fill out their census form.

Elma Turner Pop-up Library: Wednesday 22 February 11:30am –12:30pm and Monday 27 February, 10am – 12pm.

Nightingale Library Memorial: Thursday 2 March, 2:30 – 4pm.

If you can’t make these times, the Book a Librarian service is also available. These free, 45minute one-on-one sessions are available at any time within opening hours, and can be booked online at: nelsonpubliclibraries.co.nz/ services/book-a-librarian

Council wants YOU... to fill out the 2022/23 residents’ survey

Needless to say, a lot has changed in Whakatū Nelson since the last time we surveyed you in June 2022, so once again Nelson City Council wants to hear what the community thinks about the organisation’s current priorities and direction.

The results of these surveys give us a valuable overview of public opinion and help Council improve how it delivers the services that impact you – everything from Nelson’s transportation network to sporting and cultural events and even how we look after the natural environment.

An independent research company will survey at least 400 Nelson residents beginning later this month. Some people will be surveyed between February and March and others between May and June to maximise opportunities for people to participate. We’ll make the survey results public once the survey is completed, but individual responses will be completely anonymous.

If you've been chosen, you’ll get

a letter in the mail with a QR code you can scan to complete the survey online. You’ll also be able to request a paper copy if that is easier for you. Either way, the survey should only take about 10–15 minutes to complete. As thanks for taking the time to respond, you’ll go in a draw to win one of three Prezzy cards valued at $100 each, so make sure you check your mailbox!

Even if you aren’t selected to complete the survey, there are always plenty of ways to share your feedback with Council. Projects open for consultation are regularly updated online at Shape Nelson and you can report any problems or issues through the Antenno App or by contacting our Customer Service Centre.

Council to consult on Annual Plan 2023/24

Nelson City Council has assessed the financial impact of recovery from the August 2022 severe weather event and agreed an amendment to its Long Term Plan 2021-2031 is not necessary.

However, as there are significant changes to next year’s capital programme, Council will undertake public consultation on its Annual Plan 2023/24.

Not amending the Long Term Plan reduces the time required to audit an amendment as required by legislation and saves the estimated $80,000–$100,000 it would cost to engage Audit NZ, on top of staff and elected member time.

Dog owners: be on the lookout for karaka berries

Karaka trees are native to New Zealand and are abundant in public places throughout Nelson, including the back beach at Tāhunanui, Monaco Reserve, Melrose Gardens, other parks and reserves and private properties.

Dog owners should be aware that the kernels inside karaka berries are highly toxic, and consumption can be fatal. The trees pose the greatest threat to dogs between summer and autumn when the berries ripen and fall to the ground.

The karaka tree, which can grow up to 15 metres and has thick dark leaves, has bright orange berries up to 4-centimetres long, making it very distinctive.

Residents should keep an eye out for karaka trees in their area at this time of year and take care when walking their dogs.

Signs of karaka berry poisoning include confusion, weakness, vomiting, hind leg paralysis and convulsions. There can be a delay of 24–48 hours between berry consumption and symptoms. If you suspect your dog has ingested karaka berries, contact a vet immediately.

Information and advice about poisonous plants is available on the New Zealand National Poisons Centre website: poisons.co.nz

The public consultation period on the Annual Plan 2023/24 will begin on Wednesday 29 March and last for a month.

The Annual Plan consultation period and submissions process will be advertised at the Customer Service Centre and library branches, through Council’s Our Nelson publication and online at Council’s website, social media channels and Shape Nelson.

LINDA LUCRE Funeral Director

8 Panel Solar System

LAWN MOWING AND GARDEN MAINTENANCE EXPERTS

The region’s lawn mowing and garden maintenance specialist, Lawn Rite Nelson, provide experience and knowledge on how to keep your lawn and garden looking its best throughout the year.

Local owner, Hamish Anderson has the right equipment and skills to look after your every need, from mowing your lawns and trimming, garden maintenance, hedge pruning, weed and fertiliser spraying, lawn and garden renovations and new lawns for new builds. “I love the industry as people really appreciate your work because, generally, they are unable to do the work themselves. I have really enjoyed providing customers with a reliable and quality service. I did a lot of research when looking at franchises and found that most had a really high franchise fee which ultimately means I would have to charge customers more. Going with Lawn Rite is a perfect match as I can run the business however I want, and they are always there to help.”

A well-groomed and maintained lawn is the foundation of your entire property. Whether it’s a courtyard, or a quarter acre section, Lawn Rite has you covered. Hamish can provide a maintenance package to keep your lawn looking lush and green all year round. “From pruning small trees and shrubs to the larger boundary and feature hedges, removing old lawns and weeds, or cleaning up your jungle, we have the right tools and equipment to do each job safely and quickly. We offer a free, no-obligation quote and we are very cost-effective.”

Reliable, honest, conscientious and trustworthy, Hamish Anderson can execute a quick and efficient quality service to help you to enjoy a great garden. “Get your weekends back and have a lawn you are proud of by getting us to do the hard yards.” Contact Hamish at Lawn Rite Nelson on 022 468 2374 or email lawnritenelson@outlook.co.nz www.lawnrite.co.nz/nelson

HARRISON’S SOLAR NELSON AND TASMAN

In the Solar industry for nearly ten years, Tom McKay, local business owner of Harrison’s Solar Nelson and Tasman Districts, is with you every step of the way for your solar journey. With a passion for producing free power, Tom thrives on his work and truly believes in it. “My daily work is solar design, I love doing calculations, specification and tracking progress. I am well-known for good communication with customers, electricity authorities, inspectors and crews. The best part of my work is visiting and discussing solar with customers, it remains interesting as each person and job is different. Together we try to tailor the best system.” Harrisons is a New Zealand family company operating for 60 years, whose focus is on ‘putting the power back into the people’s hands’.

“Harrisons support me with technical and marketing, plus I have a huge nationwide network of Harrisons solar business owners. With top-class brands such as TESLA Powerwall, Fronius and Qcell panels, customers cannot get enough.” Adding

value to a home, slashing power bills and saving the planet, is all in a day’s work for Tom and the team. “It is fantastic to see the systems turn on and silently produce free power. I am satisfied that we are contributing to solving household, local, national and global problems in the Nelson Tasman region. I am with my customers, from the first appointment, for handling of applications and ordering, and then to finish, with inspection, meter change and any ongoing queries. This is important as it is a big investment, and done right, can add value to your home and reduce your power bills hugely from day one.”

Backed by a fantastic team, Tom wishes to thank his supporters, friends and family for their loyalty. “So many great people work for businesses behind the scenes, and I appreciate the teams I work with. And to anyone who is interested in solar and getting great savings on their power accounts, get in touch with Tom today!”

www.harrisonssolar.co.nz/owner/ thomas-mckay

SIMPLY RESPECTFUL. SIMPLY AFFORDABLE

Simplicity Funerals offer a professional and respectful service, provided by experienced and fully qualified staff. Every service is different, and with the knowledge and extensive experience in helping families from various cultural and religious backgrounds our funeral directors can arrange a memorable service of celebration to honour the life of your loved one.

We work closely with our families and provide gentle guidance at a time when it is needed most. Whether you need to arrange a funeral for a loved one, or you are trying to take the burden of arranging your own funeral from someone else, we are here to guide you through the arrangements whilst respecting your wishes every step of the way. Simplicity is for everyone – we know it doesn’t have to cost the earth to mean the world. Our services mean you can say goodbye on your terms, because simplicity means living (and dying) within your means. We always provide the most

respectful and affordable option that suits your needs.

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

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

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

‘Chalk and cheese’ artists exhibit at Suter

KATE RUSSELL

Nelson artists Paul Deacon and Nicole Russell compare their two painting styles as “chalk and cheese” but knew it would make for an interesting exhibition.

The pair have teamed up for a joint exhibition at The Suter Art Gallery called ‘From Still Life to Seascapes’ which is on now until 26 February.

“He’s the diamond and I’m the rough,” says Nicole. “I paint with a knife so I have a chunky and rough style, while Paul paints with a brush and his style is very smooth.” Both artists, however, have focused on still life and landscape art in this exhibition.

Paul’s works include dramatic seascapes and tranquil pen and ink drawings.

He is one of New Zealand’s premier marine artists, exhibiting his artwork at select galleries throughout the country, and in Sausalito, California. He is a fellow member of the Australian Society of Marine Artists (ASMA).

Nicole’s work focuses on interior

still life and local scenes.

“The Queens Garden Bridge, Broadgreen Historic House, and some private properties - they are all based on local areas.”

Her still life pieces have taken on a ‘Kiwiana’ theme for this exhibition.

“Buzzy Bee, golden syrup, and Colman’s Mustard,” she says.

“The overall impression you get when you walk in the room is that the exhibition is very colourful and pleasing with a wide variety of subjects.”

There are 36 artworks in the exhibition and Nicole says the feedback so far has been nothing but positive.

“I’ve had people contact me since it opened to tell me how much they’ve enjoyed it.”

Both Paul and Nicole often exhibit their works in the Wall to Wall Gallery in Nelson and the Gravity Gallery at Mahana.

They are skilled art tutors regularly engaging in ‘plein air’ painting sessions at local venues.

‘From Still Life to Seascapes’ is on at the Suter Art Gallery until 26 February.

Summer Sing Fest back in Nelson

The Summer Sing Fest for all Nelson and Tasman’s community choirs will be held on Saturday, 25 February at the 1903 Square from 10am - 4pm and the Nelson Market from 10am1pm.

NBS helps the Suter make art matter to students

The Suter Art Gallery Te Aratoi o Whakatū has managed to bridge a funding gap which will keep children’s art classes running.

The Suter has announced NBS as a key sponsor of their art education programmes, allowing them to continue making art matter for young people in the Nelson Tasman region. For over two decades, The Suter Art Gallery has been offering art education to thousands

of students annually through its well-established and comprehensive educational programme that enhances curriculum-based learning and fosters creativity in children.

As a non-profit organisation, finding funds to continue this work is vital.

Suter manager of commerce and Enterprise Ruth Roebuck says she is delighted to have NBS join the gallery as a sponsor.

“Art encourages youngsters to think, feel, and express themselves creatively,” she says.

“Thanks to support from community-minded businesses such as NBS, we can continue to educate and inspire local students of all ages and backgrounds.”

NBS community engagement manager, Nic Foster, recently visited the gallery and saw a class in progress.

“NBS are very pleased that our

funding is being used to remove barriers for our tamariki in the arts education space,” he says.

“It’s exciting to see The Suter running interesting and high-quality programmes for students from across the region. When I attended a class, the students all showed artistic promise and their artworks were visibly enhanced after just a few weeks with The Suter programme.”

“It is a free family-friendly event celebrating the region’s choirs from our multicultural community,” says organiser Lucy Rainey.

“We have invited all the choirs in the region to participate and we are looking forward to an exciting, colourful, and diverse programme of music throughout the day.”

Audiences will be able to listen to the region’s combined World Music Choirs including Mozaic, Haven, Inakord, Zing, and Waiata Koha who sing diverse songs from around the world.

Te Mana Hā, La Corale, and Tasmonics are also taking part.

Paul Deacon and Nicole Russell are exhibiting together at the Suter Art Gallery this month.

Photo: Tessa Jaine.

The Suter’s education team leader Esther McNaughton with NBS community engagement manager, Nic Foster. Photo: Supplied.

your Family and Property

A highly specialised and challenging field, FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire provides the installation and maintenance of fire protection systems across the entire Top of the South.

A highly specialised and challenging field, FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire provides the installation and maintenance of fire protection systems across the entire Top of the South.

In business for over 25 years, the experienced and professional FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire team pride themselves on reliable technical advice and quality on all of their installations.

In business for over 25 years, the experienced and professional FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire team pride themselves on reliable technical advice and quality on all of their installations.

Co-directors Kirstin Smith and Thorben Hoffschneider say it is the knowledge that the work they put into the community can help save someone’s life, and their property, is what drives their passion for the sector.

Co-directors Kirstin Smith and Thorben Hoffschneider say it is the knowledge that the work they put into the community can help save someone’s life, and their property, is what drives their passion for the sector.

Kirstin has been with FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire for more than 25

Kirstin has been with FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire for more than 25

years, Thorben since 2017. Complementing each other's strengths perfectly, the impressive duo purchased the business in 2020 and continue to provide a trusted, reputable, leading company for fire protection services.

years, Thorben since 2017. Complementing each other's strengths perfectly, the impressive duo purchased the business in 2020 and continue to provide a trusted, reputable, leading company for fire protection services.

Attributing to the success of the business are their amazing team and clients, says Thorben.

Attributing to the success of the business are their amazing team and clients, says Thorben.

“Without this bunch of amazing people working together, and with such strong company values and great professional can-do attitude, we could not make it this far.”

“Without this bunch of amazing people working together, and with such strong company values and great professional can-do attitude, we could not make it this far.”

Protecting critical assets from dam-

Protecting critical assets from dam-

Congratulations FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire.

Providing FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire with accounting & business support, and proud of all the hard work they do in our region

Here's to many more successful years together!

age or destruction by fire is fundamental to any company or organisation, says Thorben. “And there is no challenge out there that we can’t help our clients to overcome.” Modernising the fleet has helped to improve their coverage of the Top of the South, reinforcing the local FFP Nelson Marlborough team in Blenheim. This has enabled them to provide high profile organisations and businesses in Nelson and Blenheim with the installation of full fire protection systems and equipment sales, systems testing and mainte-

age or destruction by fire is fundamental to any company or organisation, says Thorben. “And there is no challenge out there that we can’t help our clients to overcome.”

Modernising the fleet has helped to improve their coverage of the Top of the South, reinforcing the local FFP Nelson Marlborough team in Blenheim. This has enabled them to provide high profile organisations and businesses in Nelson and Blenheim with the installation of full fire protection systems and equipment sales, systems testing and mainte-

nance and building warrants of fitness.

nance and building warrants of fitness.

The undertaking of some massive projects across the districts include installing fire protection systems in the new terminal at Nelson Airport and in the Control Tower, Countdown Richmond, Summerset Richmond, Nelson Hospice, the Manuka Street Hospital Extension, Nelson Marlborough Hospital Dialysis Building, Oceanview Apartments, Green Gables Rest home in Nelson, Golden Bay Fruit Ltd, K-Mart Blenheim, Talley’s Mussel Factory and Clearwater

The undertaking of some massive projects across the districts include installing fire protection systems in the new terminal at Nelson Airport and in the Control Tower, Countdown Richmond, Summerset Richmond, Nelson Hospice, the Manuka Street Hospital Extension, Nelson Marlborough Hospital Dialysis Building, Oceanview Apartments, Green Gables Rest home in Nelson, Golden Bay Fruit Ltd, K-Mart Blenheim, Talley’s Mussel Factory and Clearwater

Mussels Ltd in Havelock, also projects at Drylands Winery and the extensions of Two Rivers Winery and Churchill Trust Hospital.

Mussels Ltd in Havelock, also projects at Drylands Winery and the extensions of Two Rivers Winery and Churchill Trust Hospital.

“Currently we are working on the extension of the Redwood Retirement Village, which is a business part of the Oceania Group.

“Currently we are working on the extension of the Redwood Retirement Village, which is a business part of the Oceania Group.

"This building extension will double the size of their facility and add a whole new floor level, brand-new commercial kitchen, series of new apartments and social areas to the building.

"This building extension will double the size of their facility and add a whole new floor level, brand-new commercial kitchen, series of new apartments and social areas to the building.

"Also, we have been com-

"Also, we have been com-

The FFP Nelson Tasman Marlborough team.

The FFP Nelson Tasman Marlborough team.

pleting fire protection at major hop processing facilities around Tasman.”

With a total of nineteen fully trained and experienced staff on hand who are exceptionally competent to work on many different fire protection systems, Thorben says they are immensely proud of their team. “They are problem solvers with a ‘can do’ attitude to get any job done. We are a local company specialising in the design, installation and maintenance of commercial and residential fire protection systems and BWOF management.

"We are truly a one-stop shop. With over 20 years’ experience in the fire protection industry, we have designed and installed all types of special hazard systems. This includes gas suppression systems, foam fire suppression systems, deluge systems and aspirating systems.”

The future of FFP Nelson Marlborough Fire looks bright with the region growing exponentially.

"We noticed a large increase in commercial and residential buildings over the last few years and we know that

re pump systems www. rewater.co.nz

there is much more in the pipeline. Also, we are very excited with all the improvements and investments and to see them playout improving the quality of our services and installations.”

Caring for the community remains a top priority for the team, holding a special place in their hearts, and they are committed to continuing to serve the region well into the future. Seeing each project as an opportunity to be part of something significant, and establishing trust, is a hallmark of the business.

“We want to say a big thank you to our community, and to think of FFP when you need to know a bit more about fire protection and to give us a chance to work with you. Your business is very much appreciated, and we are here for you when you need us. We know and understand the market in the Nelson and Marlborough regions.

"Our clients know they can count on us to complete a project on time and on budget and compliant with all the legal standards. We are proud of the long-term and trusted relationships we have formed with our clients.”

Galbraith Engineering Ltd is New Zealand’s leading provider of fire pumps and pump stations for industrial and commercial fire fighting systems.

Galbraith Engineering Ltd is New Zealand’s leading provider of fire pumps and pump stations for industrial and commercial fire fighting systems.

We provide a full design, manufacture and installation service, using best in class pumps backed by expert technicians with many years’ experience.

We provide a full design, manufacture and installation service, using best in class pumps backed by expert technicians with many years’ experience.

Galbraith Engineering Ltd is proud to supply and be associated with FFP Nelson Marlborough.

Galbraith Engineering Ltd is proud to supply and be associated with FFP Nelson Marlborough.

SERVICES

FFP Nelson Tasman Marlborough Co-directors, Kirstin Smith and Thorben Hoffschneider.

For more than 35 years, Star Moving and Distribution has provided a professional home and furniture removal service founded on reliability, security, and friendliness. With branches in Nelson, Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, Star Moving take the stress out of moving by going that extra mile every time. A longstanding, locally owned company, Star Moving’s Nelson office is located at 178b Tahunanui Drive. Pop in and talk to the friendly, professional team who can help you with everything related to your move, from furniture and contents prepacking, loading, and unloading, to unpacking, storage and transit insurance.

If you require packing, Star Moving and Distribution provide trained packers who carefully wrap precious belongings in the most secure way possible. Whether it’s tube-wrapping crystal stem glasses or hanging suits in wardrobe cartons, Star Moving can do it all. The company also specializes in Piano, Grand Piano, Safe and Heavy Item moving, utilizing tail lifts and specialized equipment. All furniture and stored belongings are carefully itemised and containerised for protection and security. If you are relocating to another house, Star Moving will blanket-wrap all home furniture and effects and they will be securely stowed in a carpetlined pantechnicon for travelling in the most safe and secure man-

ner possible. Household furniture and beds are placed in your new home where they are set up ready for use. To save clients time, Star Moving also offer an unpacking service, and if you need storage the company provide export-approved fire and burglar-protected storage warehouses in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Nelson.

With a fleet of modern trucks and regular service runs throughout NZ, Star Moving and Distribution fully cater to daily and weekly freight services throughout the country which also works well for commercial customers, students, and Trade Me sales. To further assist with the home removal process, Star Moving kindly provides planning tips and materials should you choose to pack your home contents yourself.

Contact them to discuss your requirements or book a home visit and written quote. Phone 03 548 6667 or email nelson@starmoving.co.nz. Owner Stuart: Phone 027 439 2580 or email stuart@ starmoving.co.nz. For a ball park estimate, visit our website: www. starmoving.co.nz

Couple allege builder withholding documents that show where cost blow out occurred

TRACY NEAL Open Justice Reporter

A couple fighting the company which built their home say it’s refusing to hand over documents that would prove their claims they were misrepresented in how much it cost. But the building firm says the couple have been handed all the information requested.

Mark and Suzanne Chamberlain were back in court last week to thrash out a request for disclosure they claim LSK Builders Ltd, the company which operates the Nelson franchise of GJ Gardner Homes, is refusing to hand over, despite an earlier court order.

The Chamberlains signed up to a fixed-price contract of $509,000 to build their Nelson home, which included provisional sum allowances of $116,610. These allowances consider the work that cannot be priced by the contractor when entering into the contract.

The Chamberlains say they’re in the dark over why they’ve been hit with large increases in provisional allowances, including

almost $13,000 more in council fees and charges, $20,000 more for earthworks, a timber retaining wall, and the construction of a concrete floor.

The home’s timber foundations and sub-flooring were almost $16,000 more than estimated and engineering works were an additional $6000.

The total bill for the design-build home and hillside section has now exceeded $1 million, including the cost of ongoing court action, now in its fifth year.

The Chamberlains have paid the full amount on the fixed-price contract but on legal advice withheld a portion of the final bill, which is sitting in their lawyer’s trust account.

LSK lodged legal action against the Chamberlains in 2018, alleging they took possession of the home illegally after they were locked out on the moving-in day - because of the dispute over the bill - but forced their way in.

They then lodged a counter-claim around alleged faults with the home they’ve estimated will cost close to $166,000 to fix, and issues with the contract.

Buy Locally Made

The substantive matter was yet to be heard.

The Chamberlains allege the contract did not factor in challenges associated with the hillside site and that LSK omitted costs it knew would be required to complete the job to the specifications set out in the contract.

The Chamberlains’ lawyer Luke Acland told the court an example rested with the lack of supporting information to explain why a quote for concrete work in July 2017 was $20,000 higher after a revised quote the following year. “The second quote for less work was $20,000 more, with no supporting information as to why,” Acland said.

LSK director Graham Vercoe said under cross-examination the quote was done off the original plan but once the engineering assessment was done the information was handed back to the concrete company to re-assess. He said the concrete firm refused to say why the cost had increased, on the grounds it was “commercially sensitive” information. When pushed further Vercoe said he would provide email cor-

respondence about the quote if it wasn’t already in the bundles of documents provided.

He also said he “understood implicitly” his obligations around discovery, a process of identifying relevant documents to the other parties involved in a case, and denied he had resisted providing the evidence sought.

Vercoe said the Chamberlains were given what they had requested specifically, but perhaps not all that was on file.

LSK said experts commissioned to look at the estimates said they were within industry norms.

Mark Chamberlain said they were not given information about geotech issues with their site they learned had caused “issues with their build”, and wanted to know if homes built by LSK nearby had experienced similar issues which led to delays and higher costs.

Vercoe said delays with the Chamberlain property were caused by them, by the creation of the plans and by sub-contractors, even though LSK had “tried its best to shake the tree”.

LSK also argued the documents were comprehensive but Mark

Chamberlain “didn’t have the ability to understand them”.

The secondary school teacher said he had some knowledge of the building industry, having spent a couple of years working for a construction firm. He had now also spent five years reading complex information in order to gain an understanding of the matters at hand.

He was also challenged on whether he had sought expert advice on how to properly assess building cost estimates, to support his “serious allegation” they were somehow false.

Chamberlain said he had sought expert help to assess the alleged defects in the house, but essentially he was in court to request the information they had asked for, but hadn’t received. Acland said it was important to move the process forward so the substantive claim could be heard. Judge Kelly Kevin reserved his decision.

An opportunity for new growth within flourishing garden business

A stalwart in the landscape and gardening community for 17 years, Bay Landscapes and Garden Centre have moved to an exciting new site on Artillery Place off Lower Queen Street. Owners Bill and Leslie Norriss, along with their daughter and the new face of the business, Jasmin Costello, look forward to bringing in an even bigger variety of plants to choose from and hopefully a few more different and unique options.

“I want our shop to be full of a

big range of beautiful plants to inspire and make people happy, and introduce more sustainable options for our business,” says manager Jasmin.

“We will keep our great prices and site-made products. Our new location has a loading area for bulk landscape supplies and a drive-through shop. I love that we make a lot of our own product like liquid fertilisers, composts and potting mix, and source most of our other product locally. We on grow our plants too, so that

means they are climatised and hardened, ready for local growing conditions. We will focus on reusing and upcycling where we can, and our aim is to bring in reusable bags for our potting mixes

and gravels and biodegradable pots for our plants.” Reflecting on the years that have been, Bay Landscapes and Garden Centre is very much a family business, with every member of the immediate

family having worked there at some stage, says Jasmin.

“We have many memories revolving around it, and we are so happy to be at the stage where we can hold onto the business with

Azwood are proud to have been a supplier to Bay Landscapes & Garden Centre for over 10 years.

Congratulations on the move!

Owners Bill and Leslie Norriss

relocating instead of shutting up shop.”

Introducing a more comprehensive website is in the pipeline, which will include the ability to book deliveries online. “I want to really get the word of our business out there, it’s so special and unique in what it offers, and we have a great team of long-time staff who make coming to work a pleasure and create that friendly, down-to-earth environment that we have.”

In the beginning, Bill and Leslie operated the centre largely as a landscaping business before kickstarting the garden side of things in 2014, and growing operations to what it is today.

“When the old nursery went out of business eight years ago, the site looked like it had been abandoned and my parent’s land-

scape supplies business suffered as a result. They decided to grow their own business to include a retail nursery, hired new staff, and this is when things started to really take off. There was a lot of learning starting up a retail nursery, but we have learnt a lot, some from trial and error and a lot from very knowledgeable customers and staff.” Being based on a leased development site, the family are looking forward to the future security at the new Richmond location.

“My parents have known of the potential development of the Bateup Road site for 15 years now. They have been on a month-bymonth lease all of that time. It will be such a relief not to have the potential of ‘one month left’ at our new site. It’s been a daily part of our business and in every

decision we made we had to consider that we might not be at the site for much longer. It might take us a while to realise we don’t have that hanging over us anymore, it has been such a long time coming! My parents are so resilient, and I’m just amazed by their positive outlook, hard work and business smarts. They have built such a solid business by being themselves, they are so genuine and quite hilarious in their interactions with each other and customers. We have some very loyal, long-time regular shoppers and they just love them.”

Jasmin thrives on hard work and a passion for the outdoors, saying, “Seeing the difference a day in the garden can make for your

well-being and the sense of accomplishment it creates, growing your own food and reaping the rewards, that's what drives my passion for the business. I love hearing customers successes and I love it even more when they bring the produce instore, homegrown food is the best food!”

Officially opening on Saturday,

February 18th, Bays Landscapes and Garden Centre will be celebrating with 20% off everything - and Bill on the BBQ doing a sausage sizzle. They look forward to welcoming everyone to their new location and continuing to provide the same friendly service that locals have enjoyed for many years.

The new location will provide a loading area for bulk landscape supplies and a drive-through shop.

Moving from Three Brothers Corner to Artillery Place opens a new scope for Bays Landscapes and Garden Centre.

Beach volleyballers served up perfect conditions

JACK MALCOLM

It was all go at the Tāhunanui beach courts over the weekend as some of the best volleyballers in the country were put to the test.

A forecast of rain didn’t dampen the spirits as conditions turned out picture-perfect for the first and only South Island stop of the four-leg G.J. Gardner Homes NZ Beach Tour.

After three days of competition, tournament favourites and Commonwealth Games athletes Alice Zeimann and Shaunna Polley asserted their New Zealand dominance in a two-set final over Olivia Macdonald and Julia Tilley (2110, 21-8).

In the men’s draw, Tom Reid and Jack McManaway battled through adversity and cramping to come out victorious over Brad Fuller and Alani Nicklin in a three-set thriller that required extra points to decide (21-18, 23-21, 19-17).

It was the first time the pair had played with each other, and they worked well together to take out the top spot in front of the local fans.

Nelson-raised hopeful Giles Black fell just short of his goal of making the finals with his teammate Josh Tiplady, battling to a two-set loss in a tough semi-final against the eventual winners (21-19, 2116).

Nelson-based Holly Chandler, teaming up with high-schooler Kaia Buckley, finished 10th after a three-set game (24-26, 21-19, 15-11), having earned one win from their three games on Saturday.

Hometown heroes were also featured in the premier men’s fight for placings, with Sean Thurlow teaming up with Auckland’s Anton Tepstov in a two-set loss to also finish 10th (21-13, 21-17). It was a battle for Nelson bragging rights in the men’s match for 11th and 12th, with Karsten Webb nabbing the bragging rights over Ben Blackmore (21-14,13-21,18-16). In the first division, Nelsonian Andy Laing and his partner Ari Leckie weren’t able to follow up their first set performance in the final, fading down the stretch to finish second (1821, 21-13,15-6).

Fans were treated as Commonwealth Games athletes Shaunna Polley (spiking) and Alice Zeimann put on a display of dominance to convincingly win their final in two sets.

Photo: Evan Barnes/Shuttersport.

Mateo Roa makes a diving save. Photo: Evan Barnes/Shuttersport.

Meile-Rose Green digs it up to her partner in their first game of the Tāhunanui stop of the 2023 New Zealand Beach Tour. Photo: Evan Barnes/Shuttersport.

Michael Tyler looks to hit it past the block of Ross McKelvie on Saturday. Photo: Evan Barnes/Shuttersport.

American influence in Nelson College rugby

JACK MALCOLM

Max Doerfler wants to soak up as much as possible from his time with Nelson College’s first XV after being offered a scholarship.

The Kansas City native has big ambitions in the sport, having also travelled to Ireland last year to play in his summer break. And he’s quickly risen through the ranks, having only played rugby for three years after joining his school’s team on a whim after his friend convinced him to give it a go.

With a background in soccer and American football, he says he was able to take to the sport quicker than his peers who just played one sport.

“With the idea of it constantly moving, I would say soccer helped me more, which made it easier. But football allowed me to tackle.”

On the gridiron field, Max was a defensive end and kicker, meaning he’s on the line of scrimmage looking to disrupt the offence.

He says that while he’s tried to continue playing all three sports, rugby has become his main focus.

“I took this opportunity first and I won’t make it back for preseason. I know they’re (my team) is in good hands with our coach.”

Last season, Max was instrumen-

tal in helping his team, the STA Saints, finish fourth in the nation after they picked up their 14th state title since the club started in 2007.

He says the team often has to travel long distances to get competitive games, with their longest

trip taking upwards of 11 hours in a bus. Despite the travel, he feels lucky to have even had the opportunity to play rugby through his school, which isn’t common. He wants to use his time with the Nel-

Shane Harwood makes successful return to Super Stocks

JODY SCOTT

Milestone Homes Top of the South Speedway ran their club championships for Super Stocks, Production Saloons, Streetstocks, Side Car and Quarter Midget grades over the weekend.

The big noting point was the return of Shane Harwood in the 693n Super Stock. Having retired a few years ago, it was a blast from the past that was raising eyebrows.

Shane had jumped in the 693n after regular driver Ben Smith was out with an injury.

Having not raced for several seasons, it didn’t take long to get to grips in the still-being-tested machine.

It gave the “brains trust” vital info as to what the car can do with anther pilot behind the wheel.

Shane won the first heat, finished 3rd in the second heat, before a winning the third heat after an incorrect white flag incident caused a few issues with the finishing order.

Brett Nicholls had led the points going into the final heat only for the white flag incident to mar the title races.

Brett finished a point behind

with Ben Taylor in 3rd overall. A change of owners of the 87n machine saw Mick Eden now behind the pedal in the distinctive Jared Gray machine.

The second of three instalments of the club T.Q. champs saw Christchurch’s Tyler Warnock extend his lead over locals Dylan Bensemann and Jonti Austin.

John Schoester took out the feature race but a non-start in the first heat cost dropped him from 2nd to 5th in the overall standings WIth a 22 point lead going into the final round, Tyler will have room to wriggle in the final round.

The Streetstocks had a couple of weeks off before things started to get hectic again.

Steve Soper, 3nz, continuing his form by picking up the club champs from Ryan Musgrove and Perry Soper. A three-way tie going into the final heat between Steve, Ryan and Cody McCarrison made for an exciting final heat, but it was Steve taking the win and title with Ryan finishing 3rd to be runner-up, while Cody didn’t get across the line to finish.

The South Island title is here in Nelson in April while the Nelson Knights head south in a few weeks to do battle in

Christchurch.

It took a run-off to decide the Side-car club title with Brent Steer and Wade Thorn prevailing over the Martin team of Rob and Harley. Adie Drake and Sam Kingsbury were 3rd, a couple of points back.

The Side-cars have had a couple of meetings south but were happy to get some home track time as the season winds down.

The Quarter Midget club title went to Canterbury’s Jack Brownlees, with locals Locky Martin and Conley Webley filling the podium. Conley picked up the first heat win with Jack the next two while Locky finished second in all three of his races.

Locky leads the Mike Greer South Island series.

The Production Saloon club champs also had a three-way tie going into the final heat. Eddie Frans, Vaughan Cornelius and Dave Leitch all tied on 11 points, with Abbey Carter just a point behind.

The final heat saw Vaughan take the win and the title from Eddie who finished 2nd. Abbey Carter jumped into 3rd spot overall after Dave finished in 5th spot in the final heat.

Nelson’s Ian Burson finished 4th overall at the NZ Super Saloon title in Dunedin after leading the points going into the final heat, not a bad effort after getting a new engine two weeks ago and a changed set-up, while having not raced the car in over a year.

Callum Russ ended his Youth Ministock career qualifying for the Championship group at M.I.P. in Rotorua, good points in heat one undone after he joined a multiple number of drivers bending bumpers on the notorious turn 2 wall.

The South Island title calendar month begins next week with the Super Stocks racing for their S.I. title.

Shane Harwood, Alex Hill and Brett Nicholls are all previous winners.

Ian Clayworth last won the title 30 years ago, it would be a huge gap between drinks if he could claim another.

North Island speedster Quinn Ryan is visiting, while a line-up from Canterbury will include veteran Pete Field, the Berry brothers and a possible ex-1nz if the car gets fixed in time.

The next home meeting is the Harper Builders South Island Superstock Championship on 18 February.

son College team to soak in as much information as he can from what he describes as one of the best rugby schools in the world. “I want to learn as much as possible rugby wise and bring it back to the States.”

As a lock, he says that he doesn’t really have strengths as a player, focusing more on his overall game as a hard worker who’s ready to put his head down and get stuck in.

“My weakness is that I’m a little bit smaller, but I’m still tough.” While Max’s love for rugby has seen him miss out on playing other sports, he still watches American football and is a big fan of the Kansas City Chiefs. He says there’s no chance he’ll miss out on watching his hometown team as they took to the field on Monday to against the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LVII. His team won 38-35 in a game that went down to the wire

Max Doerfler has travelled from Kansas City on a scholarship to Nelson College where he plans to learn as much as he can from what he calls one of the best rugby schools in the world. Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Thrills and spills at Skatepark Series

There were high-flying thrills and spills as Tasman’s Skatepark Series kicked off at McGazza Land in Wakefield on Saturday. The poor forecast held off as the next generation of thrill seekers showed off their skills for the crowd. Among the highlights was a timed racerun of the pump track, the technical skills on display at the miniramp and the high-flying stunts of the BMX riders on the dirt jumps. The Skatepark Series continues at Motueka Skate Park this weekend before stops at Richmond Skate Park and Neale Park in March. All photos by Jack Malcolm.

ACOB’s Finn Restieaux got to keep both balls from their game against Wakatu after a stand-out bowling performance gave his team the win. Improving on his five wicket haul from day one, Finn took seven wickets in the second innings to help his team to the win as they looked to defend 183. After a slow start to the game last week, ACOB improved with the bat to make 208/10 and win by 43 runs. In other results, Stoke-Nayland and Wanders/ Motueka Wolves didn’t even need a second turn with the bat in convincing wins over Waimea Toi Toi United and Nelson College respectively. Photo: Chris Symes/Shuttersport.

Orion Griffin (12)

Dylan Boffa-Martin

Pippi Taylor (10)

Leon Nichols

Community Notices

MONDAY

PHILOSOPHY GROUP is a meeting of curious minds. Meets 2nd & 4th Mon of the month. 10am, Melrose House Café. Newcomers and drop-in’s welcome. Ph: Zoe 027 974 1758.

ACTING UP DRAMA GROUP Mon, 10.30 – 2 pm. Whakatu Presbyterian Church Hall, 271 Songer St. Stoke. New members welcome. Ph: Anne 03 538 0400.

ME/CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome) + FM (fibromyalgia) get-together. Mon 20 Feb, 2-3pm. Broccoli Row, Collingwood Street. Nelson Bays ME/CFS FM Support group strengthtogethernelson@gmail.com

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. Come and see us at 142 Saxton Rd Mon 5.30-7pm. For other opening times and a map E: bikehubnelson@gmail. com.

YOGA for people who have or have had cancer. Monday morning, afternoons, and Tuesday evenings. Register info@cancernelson.org.nz or Ph: 539 1137.

TUESDAY

STOKE CENTRAL COMBINED PROBUS welcomes men and woman as new members. Meet 4th Tues of the month, 10am. Stoke Methodist Church Hall, 94 Neale Avenue, Stoke. Interesting speakers, outings, and lunches.

NZ CHRISTIAN WRITERS NELSON GROUP Tues 21 Feb, 1-4pm. Richmond Baptist Church Lounge. Open to writers at all stages from wanna-be writers to published authors of all ages and whatever genre you use. For further details please Ph: Kay 027 547 6777 or E: kaypeterson4@xtra.co.nz

NELSON 50+ WALKING GROUP Rough Island Ramble. Tues 21 Feb. Meet at 9.45am at Rough Island near the main road. BYO lunch. Ph: Jenny 027 346 3319.

COFFEE & CROSS Want to talk to someone about God, church,

Jesus? No catch - join me for coffee at YAZA! Tues, 11-12pm - I'll listen. Rev. Gordon, wearing a Cross & Collar. NELSON NEWBIES WALKING GROUP welcomes new people.

Every Tues & Fri, 10am in Nelson, Stoke, Richmond. Ph: Karin 022 152 9963.

WEDNESDAY

WAIMEA HARRIERS: Sharland Cycles 5k fun run and walk. Wed 15 Feb. 6pm start from Club Waimea, Richmond. Everyone and all abilities welcome. See website for details. Ph: 022 372 9432.

PLAY PÉTANQUE at Nelson pétanque club. Wed and Sun. 1.15 -3.00pm. A game for all ages. Come along and try us out. Ph: Roger or Shirley 03 546 6562.

THURSDAY

OFF YOUR ROCKERS CHOIR Thurs, 2pm. Baptist Church Hall, Bridge St. Invites new singers and instrumentalists, 60 plus, to join our fun choir. No auditions. Further information Ph: Jan 03 545 0434.

START-UP TAI CHI Thurs 9-10am. Victory Community Centre. Tai chi is often described as "meditation in motion," but it might well be called "medication in motion". Join Jingjing from the Healing Hut for this gentle form of exercise that can help maintain strength, flexibility, and balance. It could be the perfect activity for the rest of your life. COST: $50 for 8 weeks.

FRIDAY

SUPER SENIORS LUNCH: Fri 17 Feb. 10.30-12.30pm. All Saints Church foyer, 30 Vanguard St, Nelson. Anyone age 65+ welcome to our monthly morning tea and lunch. This month we have Cabaret Style musical items - Clarinet and Keys (Edward and David). $10 koha suggested.

SONGBIRDS LADIES CHOIR, Fri morning Rehearsals in Stoke. New female singers welcome. If you enjoy singing and can hold a tune, please give me a call. Ph: Mary 03 544 8232 or

021 133 4805.

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

COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE every Fri, 9-11.30am. Victory Community Centre. Designed to make treatment affordable and accessible for all. Dress comfortably in loose fitting clothing so you can roll up your pants and sleeves. Cost: Sliding Scale$5 - $40

AMPUTEE SOCIETY Top of the South meet last Friday of the month for coffee and a chat at the Honest Lawyer around 10am. Outside if sunny –inside if wet. Bring a friend or support person. Look forward to seeing you there.

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

QUALITY CRAFTS NELSON Sat 18 Feb, 8am-noon. Richmond Baptist Church. 123 Salibury Rd Walk through the Boot Market to the Church Lounge to find us. We have a wide selection of quality local handmade crafts with something suitable for everyone! Ph: Kay 027 547 6777 for further details.

STOKE MONTHLY MARKET Sat 18 Feb, 9am-noon. Methodist church lawn. Ph: 03 927 6130 to book site. Supporting Nelson Hospital Chaplaincy and LifeLInc.

BABY & KIDS SALE Sat, 18 Feb, 10-12pm. Founders Park. Grab a bargain at our popular - new & second-hand pregnancy, baby and kids’ items including clothing, books, toys and more. Want to sell your items? To book a table E: cbeantenatal@ndpc.org.nz

WALK THE RUNWAY @ NELSON AIRPORT Sat 25 Feb, 8pm. Meet inside airport terminal. Bring the family, Gold Coin Donation and all funds go to Leukaemia and Blood Cancer NZ and the Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge.

NELSON DANCE ALONG Sat 25 Feb, 7.30-11pm. Richmond Town Hall. Plate for Supper, Music by Warren Fenemor. Everyone Welcome. Cost $6 pp. Ph: Rosalie Winter 03 538 0133.

FR CHRIS SKINNER IN CONCERT Sat 25 Feb, 7pm. St Francis of Assisi Church, Songer Street, Stoke. Door sales on the night also available from: Richmond Mall Kiosk Desk, or Ph: Margot: 027 4448 398. Raffle tickets sold will be drawn on the night.

BALANCE JIU-JITSU Children's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Classes (ages 8-12). Confidence, self-defence skills & make new friends. Ph: David 021 169 2748.

NELSON SPIRITUALIST CHURCH weekly service Sunday 7pm8pm. Corner Tipahi and Motueka Sts.

GENERAL GROUPS

ENLIVEN DAY PROGRAMMES for the elderly. Could you –could you give a few hours one day a week to assist with activities or on van pickups? Full training is provided. Ph: Maaike 03 265 5224 or E: maaikef@psusi.org.nz

ART EXHIBITION. During the month of Feb. 38 Bolt Rd, Tāhunanui (The art corner of the Nelson Golf Club Cafe). A colourful display of works by Local Artist Shirley Crampton. Open to the public daily.

FALLS PREVENTION: Free 2hr session for anyone who has fallen or is at risk of falling. Relaxed & informal setting. Book at Nelson Bays Primary Health. Ph: Ange 021 790 415.

FOOD, IS IT A PROBLEM FOR YOU? Are you suffering from anorexia, bulimia, obesity and/or compulsive eating? Overeaters Anonymous works. Ph: 022 673 0237. All welcome.

ARE YOU A CHRISTIAN wanting to make a difference in the life of a child? We are looking for caring Christian people who are willing to open their home to care for a child/young person. To find out more, Ph: Mika at Open Home Foundation 027 461 0497 mika.ito@ohf.org.nz.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS - Is alcohol causing problems for you in your life? Want to stop drinking but can't? Maybe we can help. Support meetings every day. Call 0800aaworks 0800 229 6757.

WAKEFIELD COMMUNITY BUS: HELP NEEDED The Nelson Tasman Community Transport Trust provides affordable community public transport in areas where there’s little available. Wakefield Bus is in need of support – can you help? We’re interested in hiring a local mini-bus (6-11 seater) on a regular basis

& looking for volunteer drivers, no special licence required. To ensure our bus service continues NTCTT are looking for board members with a few hours to spare. Ph: 020 4196 0553.TO BOOK A SEAT - call or text 020 4195 8866.

BIRDLIFE CENTRE OF NEW ZEALAND needs volunteer pest trappers in the Centre of NZ Reserve in Nelson city. No experience needed; full training given. If you are interested, reasonably fit and can spare two hours a fortnight Ph: Gretchen 021 266 3867.

FEELING SAD, STRESSED, DEPRESSED, OR STUCK? Identify and explore new ways to move forward with a Life Linc Counsellor. Up to 10 face to face counselling sessions available now for individuals and couples. 548 2400 lifelinc.co.nz

LUNG CANCER CONNECT for those who are going through or who have gone through lung cancer Register 539 1137.

NELSON WOODTURNING CLUB. Join us at our club rooms for Turning, camaraderie and sharing of knowledge. New Learn to Turn classes starting soon. Ph: or txt Allan for more information 021 543 345.

ST JOHN COMMUNITY SHOP friendly and fit volunteer needed to assist with furniture deliveries and donation pick-ups around Nelson. Ph: Stacie 03 548 8598 or visit instore 46 Rutherford St, weekdays 10am - 4.30pm.

KIDS YOGA 6-12 years old in bright new studio in Tahuna. Book 03 545 8289 info@cancernelson.org.nz or Ph: 539 1137 FOOD, IS IT A PROBLEM FOR YOU? Are you suffering from anorexia, bulimia, obesity and/or compulsive eating? Overeaters Anonymous works. Ph: 022 673 0237. All welcome BLOOD CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meet monthly for more information ph: Heather 027 444 4708.

NELSON HINEMOA CROQUET CLUB Saltwater Lane (off Halifax St, beside squash & tennis courts). Give Croquet a Go: Friendly supportive club, for competition or just fun. Coaching and equipment available. Individuals or groups catered for. Nettie 548 8432 / 027 682 8168 nettiebarrow@gmail.com

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

Across contd.

12 Wide view (8)

13 Exultant (6)

15 Fury (4)

16 As a climax (2,3,2,3)

19 Energy (3-2-3-2)

20 South African monetary unit (4)

23 Arrival (6) 25 Avaricious (8) 27 Big shop (8) 28 Swiss city (6) 29 Mockery (8) 30 Everything short of (3,3) Down

1 Thrive (7)

2 From one day to the next (9)

3 Tell (6)

5 Declare (4)

6 Armed forces clergyman (8)

7 Author of Gulliver’s Travels (5)

8 Malicious gossip (7)

11 Seize by legal right (7)

14 Thai capital (7)

17 In a depressed state (2,1,3,3)

18 Protesting hotly (2,2,4)

19 Permission to proceed (2-5)

21 Aloof in manner (7)

22 Divulge (6)

24 Venomous snake (5) 26 Form of unarmed combat (4)

and

PUBLIC

COIN COLLECTIONS?

ANTIQUES CLOSING DOWN SALE

Don't miss the bargains now at Souchebys Antiques, 75 Gladstone Rd, Richmond Ph 5440723 or 021417413

FURNITURE

Desks, chaise, lounge, dressing table, mirrors, rugs, tables, chairs, cabinets, bookcases, paintings etc.

SITUATIONS VACANT

NELSON

Support Workers -

Part-time

Earn $22.49 to $28.25 an hour.

Learn new skills and gain qualifications on the job. Closing date: Sunday, 26 February 2023. Applications will be reviewed as received.

Ref: N23-LLDS-C-Jan.

Support Workers - Residential and Vocational

Life Life Disability Services

Support adults with intellectual disabilities to live a great life.

Permanent, part-time, full-time and casual positions available.

Closing date: Open until filled.

Ref: N23-LLDS-B-Feb.

Hospital Orderly (Casual)

Nelson Hospital

Working on an as required basis primarily covering staff leave.

Earn $22.75 (entry) to $27.18 per hour with relevant NZQA qualifications plus penal rates. for nights 25% (after 8PM), weekends 50%, and public holidays 100%.

Closing date: Open until filled.

Ref. N23-101.

Support Worker Information EveningMonday, 20 February 2023

Live Life Disability Support

Ensure quality of life outcomes and have fun along the way

Learn new skills and gain health and wellbeing qualifications

Earn $22.49 to $28.25 an hour.

Work the hours that suit you!

By applying to this vacancy you will receive an invitation to our next info and assessment evening.

Closing date: Wednesday, 15 February 2023.

Ref: N23-091.

Online application, CV and cover letter are required before your application can be processed. Enquiries can be made to Human Resources Nelson telephone: (03) 546 1274 or email vacancies@nmdhb.govt.nz

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

ALLPORT

Kevin Harold 11.01.2023

The family of Kevin sincerely wish to thank those who sent cards, flowers and messages or who called on the passing of a dearly loved husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, brother and uncle.

“A friend to many.”

To those who assisted us in caring for Kevin at home please accept our grateful thanks. As some addresses are unknown please accept this as a personal acknowledgement. Jill and Family.

WANTED TO BUY

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CHURCH NOTICES

email:

SITUATIONS VACANT

DELIVERERS WANTED

Do you want to be part of the award winning Top South Media team?

We are looking for reliable, hard working people to deliver our paper every Wednesday. Position is perfect for after school work, stay at home parents or anybody wanting extra income.

For further details please email: deliveries@thedeliveryguy.co.nz

Notice to all Advertisers: By placing your advertisement you agree with the terms and conditions of the Nelson Weekly Ltd. Payment is due by the 20th of the following month. All debt recovery costs will be on-charged to the customer. Interest will be charged on overdue debts greater than 90 days. Cheques are no longer accepted. Should you require any further information please view our Terms of Trade at https://topsouthmedia.co.nz/terms-of-trade/ or call 548 5900 option accounts.