Waimea Weekly - 15 March 2023

Locally Owned and Operated

Wednesday 15 March 2023

Waimea Weekly

Dementia unit pause disappoints

ANNE HARDIE

A dementia unit planned for Arvida Oakwoods Retirement Village in Richmond has been put on hold indefinitely, leaving residents upset with the decision.

Residents learnt about the decision to shelve plans for the unit last week and their committee chairman Jim Wiseman said it was met with disappointment.

“The dementia unit was going to be the jewel in the crown, but hopefully it is just being delayed.”

The village has been planning a dementia unit for several years and surrounding properties had been purchased for the build.

Jim says residents understood it would be built in the next couple of years – after the completion of a dementia unit at Arvida Waimea Plains further down

Lower Queen St.

“As soon as (Waimea Plains) was finished they were going to build our one. But that is now on hold. Prices have escalated and they have other things they’re doing around the country.”

In a statement, Arvida chief executive Jeremy Nicoll said that after a thorough evaluation of its plans, the company had decided to put the new care-centre project

on hold.

He acknowledged it was disappointing news but said Arvida Oakwoods would continue to operate the 48-bed care centre that provides rest home and hospital-level care. He said the company would revaluate the project once market conditions improve.

Arvida Group is a developer, owner and operator of retirement villages and aged-care facilities

throughout New Zealand. The company was formed in 2014 and is one of the country’s larger operators of retirement villages and aged-care facilities.

Arvida Oakwoods’ residents met with management at a meeting last Thursday and Jim says it was a positive meeting, despite many residents being upset by the

SEE PAGE 2

Ranzau School student Leo Bennett, 9, prepares to cross the finish line of the Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon on Sunday.

Photo: Evan Barnes. Story page 30.

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Dementia unit pause disappoints residents

FROM PAGE 1

decision. He says they learnt earlier in the week about the plans to shelve the unit and sent a “very strong letter to show we were disappointed”.

For residents, a dementia unit on site enables them to stay within the community that has been their home and when a partner needs to move into the unit, the other partner can visit easily. Jim says a dementia unit down the road is not preferable, but it is not impossible for partners to visit, especially with the increase in mobility scooters

which is enabling elderly people to be more mobile.

He says the shelved plans for the dementia unit will hopefully be a “medium-term problem” rather than a long-term scenario for the village.

The New Zealand Retirement Village and Aged Care report released last year outlined the shortage of aged-care facilities for an ageing population, including dementia-care beds.

As an industry, 65 per cent of retirement villages contained an aged-care facility and only 103 of the 425 villages in the report had dementia-care beds.

“Running a marathon in 2012. I couldn’t do it now!”

“Setting up a local car detailing business called Automagic.”

“Buying a house independently just before I turned 30. The hard work and saving was worth it.”

MOTORCYCLE CLUB DONATION: The Nelson Classic Vintage Motorcycle Club visited the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter base of operations last week to present $1000 from club members. The money was raised at their annual motorcycle show held in January. President of the club, Dave Roberts, and committee member John De Jong both say it was a “very successful” show and they had some surplus money that they wanted to donate to a good cause, so they chose the rescue helicopter. Manager of the trust, Paula Muddle, says the donation was warmly received. “It is always great when community groups such as the Nelson Classic Vintage Motorcycle Club run events that benefit vital community services. It’s a win-win, these members are passionate about their motorbikes and the public gets to see these amazing machines. Pictured from left are Prue Young, John De Jong, Dave Roberts, and Zoe Farmer. Photo: Supplied.

Karen Cooper

“Moving to NZ and meeting Mark Owen from Take That on a dolphin cruise!”

Scott Shrimpton

Hamish Kent

Rachel Foulsham

Whooping cough threat as vaccinations wane

ANNE HARDIE

Watching a baby with whooping cough turn blue because it cannot breathe is scary even for doctors, and Nelson paediatrician Dr Nick Baker is pleading with parents to vaccinate.

It follows two recent deaths from the highly-infectious disease nationally and concerns about its spread as vaccination rates wane.

Dr Baker, who is also chief medical officer for Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand Nelson-Marlborough, says the region follows the national trend of a dropping vaccination rate, caused by the Covid-19 disruption to vaccination programmes and some people becoming “vaccination wary”.

The region still has good vaccination coverage compared with national figures, but he is concerned about people making choices about vaccination based on information from social media, instead of seeking professional advice.

Whooping cough is particularly dangerous for young babies and he says more than half of babies less than a year old with the disease end up in

hospital.

“Whooping cough is very infectious and can roar through communities. We need to protect all our community, but particularly children under one and most especially newborns for the first six weeks of life.

Watching a baby going blue and unable to breathe because of whooping cough is still pretty scary.

Dr Nick Baker

“Whooping cough is cough, cough, cough and no time to breathe and then they go blue. Even for me as a paediatrician, watching a baby going blue and unable to breathe because of whooping cough is still pretty scary.”

Ideally, pregnant women are vaccinated to protect their newborn baby, which then gets its first vaccination at six weeks, followed by another at three months and then five months. Boosters are given at four years and 11 years.

Dr Baker says everyone who has regular contact with a newborn baby should be vaccinated to protect it from whooping cough as it is not fully protected until it has its third vaccination dose. Even then, the vaccinations will not protect the baby 100 percent.

“So we have to do our best for wrap-around protection for our little ones.”

He says most parents today do not know the dangers of whooping cough because of a successful vaccination programme. For a comparison, a visit to Port Nelson to look at the passenger lists of the ships bringing settlers to Nelson in the mid-1800s reveal how many children died on the voyages from whooping cough. Winter is when whooping cough is usually at its worst and Dr Baker says that is because people are closer together, the virus does not dry out in the colder weather and there are less sunshine hours to kill bugs.

The country has a whooping cough epidemic every three to five years and the last outbreak was in 2017-19. No cases were reported in 2020 and 2021 due to public health measures related to Covid-19.

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Consent scare pauses river works across Tasman

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

A breach of a resource consent in Golden Bay inadvertently brought many of Tasman District Council’s river control works across the region to a halt. A contractor that council doesn’t normally deal with was clearing a Golden Bay creek when it was found in January to be in breach of the conditions of the project’s resource consent.

“The way it was done was not appropriate. It affected the mana of that stream,” confirmed Richard Kirby, council’s group manager community infrastructure.

He suggested that a farmer, who has partly funded the project, may have asked the contractor to alter the plan without either party realising that there were consent conditions that had to be complied with.

“We have consents on how we do all that work, so we don’t actually put silt into the river and… don’t have vehicles running through the river and affecting fish life,” Richard says. The contractor that council normally deals with to do its river control works across the rest of the district

heard of the breach of compliance and put their own works on hold.

“They were a bit concerned that, given what happened over there, they might be in a similar boat, when in an actual fact that’s not the case at all,” Richard explained. “Our contractor on this side of [Tākaka Hill] has been exemplary in the way they do that work.”

Richard has since met with council’s usual contractors to reassure them that they’ve been compliant in their operations, and they have since returned to work. In the meantime, council is reviewing how contractors and resource consents are managed to ensure that compliance is continued in the future.

“There are some procedural matters that we’re working through in the office here to make sure that when we do have contractors other than our normal ones involved, that we sign things off,” Richard said.

However, despite the mix-up now being solved, it didn’t escape the notice of local residents.

“It’s probably turned into something bigger than it could have been, but nevertheless it’s there and we are resolving it,” Richard says.

Shutdown for SeniorNet Nelson

JO KENT

SeniorNet Nelson is officially logging off at the end of March with some members concerned those who still need help with modern technology will have nowhere to turn.

The organisation is part of a community training network that supports people over 50 to use computers and other devices.

Run by people who are also over 50, the group was set up in 1993 to help members with Windows desktop computers. Over the years it’s embraced other technology such as tablets, phones, apps and cameras.

More recently, members were taught how to master Zoom calls, online shopping and online banking.

Rod Lewis, 81, has been a group host at SeniorNet for close to two decades and says closing is a mistake as it pro-

vides a valuable service to the elder community.

“There are a lot of older people who still struggle with the internet and technological developments, and they get a lot of benefit from being able to get affordable help.”

People could attend one-onone sessions to help with any issues they had specifically and Rod says this element of the group will be sorely missed.

“Older people who don’t understand technology are less intimidated by people of a similar age. Going into a shop to ask an 18-year-old who ‘knows everything’ and can’t relate to the older people is really confronting.”

Chairman for SeniorNet Nelson, Larry Cleary, says, over time members have developed their skills and are now more tech savvy, so the decision was made to close.

“It is with great sadness that after almost 30 years of learn-

ing technology together the committee has decided to close down.

“With more people knowing about computers, we came to the realisation that we had done our job.”

The plan is to continue with two interest groups which SeniorNet ran, but under the new U3A banner. However, the one-on-one sessions will be dropped completely. Rod says this will alienate people who rely on the help group as, although there are independent services available in Nelson, the cost of a private consultation is not realistic for small things like how to email a photo.

“Where will they go now? I’m not bitter, but I’m very disappointed because I think there is still a great need for what we provided. We had fabulous facilities down there and we’ve given them up, just like that,” he says.

SeniorNet Nelson member Rod Lewis says there is still a great need for affordable tech support in the community. Photo: Jo Kent.

Control works in rivers across Tasman, like the Waimea River, were put on pause due to fears from council's contractor that they were breaching resource consent conditions. Photo: Max Frethey.

Menacing dog classification challenged

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

A local couple have challenged the classification of their dog as “menacing” by Tasman District Council.

The 12-month-old Rhodesian ridgeback, named Ruby, was given the menacing classification after biting a cyclist along Redwood Park Road in the afternoon of 11 March 2022, inflicting minor scratches and slight bruising.

But owners Manuela and Michael Smit, in a public hearing of council’s animal control subcommittee, questioned whether the dog had even bitten the cyclist.

A description of the incident says the victim was cycling along the road, approaching Manuela on his bike while she walked two dogs off-lead. Manuela put one the dogs on the lead as the cyclist approached but Ruby went up to the cyclist and bit him on his calf with no warning, inflicting a minor scratch and slight bruising.

“There were no signs of aggression, growling or barking,” Manuela says. “The biker was not yelling, screaming, or kicking, something you would expect if there was a dog attack.”

She suggests that perhaps the minor injuries in the image supplied to council were inflicted by slipping on a bike pedal, as she believes a bite mark from Ruby would do greater damage. However, hearing panel member councillor Kit Maling disagreed with that assessment.

“It looks like some marks there that would certainly come from a dog bite.

Not a serious dog bite, because I’ve been bitten by dogs on more than one occasion,” he says. “But I can see some bruising, some redness, and what looks like two little puncture marks.”

But Michael said, given the size of Ruby’s teeth, that if one of their dogs had bitten the cyclist, then there would be four puncture marks, larger than the two in the photo.

Manuela also challenged Ruby’s menacing classification on the grounds that her two dogs, both Rhodesian ridgebacks, are almost indistinguishable and it was possible the victim incorrectly identified which dog bit him, which would mean their other dog, Kya, could be classed as menacing, not Ruby.

The menacing classification means the dog has to be muzzled when in public, which stops it from fully participating in training courses with other dogs.

“Taking away [Ruby’s] opportunity to be part of socialised dog training courses does not benefit anyone,”

Manuela says.

A decision from the panel is expected in three weeks, but regulatory support officer Tabatha Kingi says in her report on the hearing that rescinding the menacing classification would “make it very difficult to consistently deal with any future dog attacks of a similar nature”.

Fictional caver rescued from Kahurangi cave system

BOBBY NIJSSEN

Squeezing through tight spaces and wading through freezing cold cave water is not everyone’s idea of a fun weekend, but for 66 of New Zealand and Australia’s most experienced cavers that’s exactly what they did.

Sixty Kiwis and six Australian cavers worked together to rescue a fictional injured caver from Bulmer Cave in Kahurangi National Park– a 74.3km long cave system that runs through Mount Owen.

The triennial New Zealand Deep Cave Search and Rescue (SAR) training exercise began at 7am last Friday and ran through till midday Sunday.

The National Park has three long cave systems, with Bulmer Cave being 74.3 km long and 750 metres deep.

Volunteers took eight months to plan the training, which saw the fictional caver fall six to seven metres down a sev-

en-metre pitch about a three to four hour walk into the cave.

Organisers say it’s a fitting place to stage the rescue, having been the site of an incident in the 90s where a caver fell and injured themselves.

The rescue saw Fire and Emergency NZ, LandSAR, Cave SAR, and NZ Police SAR team up to bring the caver home.

Nelson Fire and Emergency and the catering team brought their incident command vehicle to help manage communications. There was a 24-hour incident management team (IMT) set up with the base a short walk from the cave’s entrance, to allow the rescue tea to have a lie down, refuel, and recover between their times in the cave itself.

One of the incident controllers, senior constable Sarah Cook, says it was great to see experienced cavers and emergency personnel work together to practice and prepare for a

potential real-life event.

“We know from experience that cave rescues can present many challenges for responders, so having a cohort of trained and equipped search and rescue cavers ready to respond is vital,” she says.

“While caving is an undeniably exhilarating excursion there is always going to be a risk of falls, flash flooding, injuries or cave-ins, especially for inexperienced or unprepared cavers.

All explorers should bring a companion, dress appropriately, and watch for weather changes.

“We would like to thank the local community in the Owen Valley area for their support of this exercise and their ongoing support for the cavers who come to explore Bulmer Cave,” Sarah says. “Despite being ready to jump into action, we want cavers to enjoy the experience and be able to walk out on their own.”

The dog’s owners dispute that the injuries shown here were caused by their dog.

Photo: Supplied.

Nelson Airport’s runway plans take off

STAFF REPORTER

Nelson Airport has lodged an application with the Nelson City Council seeking planning approvals for its future runway extension

The airport’s application seeks to alter existing land designations and re-zone it’s current land to enable the extension.

Nelson Airport sought community feedback on its intention and plans to extend the runway in April 2022. It anticipates that a longer runway will be needed within the next 10 – 15 years.

The extension will ensure the airport is set up to host future low-emission and zero-emission aircraft, to remove the existing weight restrictions for aircraft already at Nelson, and to improve safety by providing additional buffer areas for aircraft known as Runway End Safety Areas (RESA).

The project’s name, Project 2-Zero, is a nod both to the runway’s technical name (the number 2-0, based on the compass orientation of the runway) and to the project’s focus on ensuring Nelson Airport can contribute to a zero-carbon future for aviation.

On Wednesday 8 March, the airport submitted its application for a Notice of Requirement to alter its existing planning designations - Aerodrome (Nelson Airport), Airnoise boundary controls, and Airport height restrictions.

It also submitted a Private Plan Change to amend the airport land’s zoning from its current

Teachers to strike

mix of predominantly Industrial and Open Space and Recreation zoning to a specific Airport Zone, and to amend the rules relating to the development and intensification of sensitive activities around the airport.

Nelson Airport chief executive Mark Thompson says the application aims to ensure the land and planning provisions for the airport protect its future, including the need to support a sustainable aviation model by providing for the runway extension.

“We don’t intend to go out and extend the runway tomorrow, but we do need to make sure we pro-

School and kindergarten teachers in Nelson are taking place in a nationwide strike this Thursday. The New Zealand Educational Institute says primary school and kindergarten teachers and principals rejected a second offer from the Ministry of Education to settle their collective agreements. NZEI president Mark Potter said union members want the government to increase staffing and funding to schools

tect and provide for our ability to construct it when it’s needed.

“A designation is the planning tool that protects an area for its designated purpose and ensures we are signalling that to the community. This will provide the airport and the community with certainty, to enable us to design and deliver a more sustainable and resilient airport operation.”

Mark says the airport’s zoning also needs to be addressed, as the current zoning doesn’t appropriately recognise existing land use, requirements for contemporary airports, or best practice as set out in national planning stan-

and kindergartens and improve current pay offers to attract and retain people. Secondary school teachers are also striking next week, which will mean up to 50,000 teachers will be taking industrial action.

Rusty water ‘harmless’

A mystery discolouration in the water at Stephen’s Bay near Kaiteriteri was investigated last Wednesday and traced to harm-

dards.

As the airport signalled last year, a best-practice noise mitigation package is included in the plans. This would see the airport fund measures such as mechanical ventilation and acoustic insulation for lawfully-existing affected properties depending on their location within its updated “noise contours”.

“Noise contours give an indication of the level of noise nearby properties can expect to experience in the future as a result of aircraft operations, and also put controls on how much noise the airport is permitted to generate,”

less bacteria in the stormwater system and not a sewer overflow. Concerned residents called Tasman District Council reporting a strange rusty brown colour in the water. Investigations revealed the orange/brown colour is naturally occurring iron oxidising bacteria, which are no threat to human health. “We suspect someone may have been putting additional water into the stormwater system which brought the bacteria to the surface flow,” a council spokesperson said.

Mark says. “We need to update our noise contours because they were introduced many years ago and no longer accurately reflect the current aircraft operating at the airport, future forecast activity levels, or the effect of an extended runway.”

The application does not include any changes to the current limits on engine testing noise.

Mark says the airport’s application does not signal any immediate change to the noise generated by the airport.

“In reality, airport noise will change gradually over time as activity levels grow, and the pattern of noise will change once aircraft begin using an extended runway.”

He says managing the development of sensitive uses around the airport is also an important part of protecting the airport’s operations and ensuring the well-being of the surrounding community, including through an improved noise mitigation programme.

The airport has requested its application be publicly notified, meaning a formal public consultation process would take place and a public hearing held before any decisions are made.

“We know both our nearest neighbours and the wider Nelson-Tasman community have a strong interest in this, and we want to be proactive about providing good information about our plans to the community.” More information will be available on the airport’s website in the next few days, including an interactive mapping tool that al-

Free brekkie for bikers

Tasman District Council are holding the first of their Biker’s Brekkie events at Sundial Square next Wednesday, 22 March, between 7.30am and 9am. Riders can pop along for a free breakfast, coffee and giveaways and find out more about the latest Streets for People projects and Richmond road safety improvements.

Nelson Airport has lodged an application with council seeking planning approvals for its runway extension. Photo: Tracy Neal.

Acclaimed antibullying programme coming to Nelson

KATE RUSSELL

It was 17 years ago when teacher Elenor Aleksich first had to deal with bullying in her classroom.

“I had just started teaching and had a student who was being severely bullied. Her mum came to me in tears because she didn’t know what to do,” she says.

“I was crying with her because I was bullied at school, and it hurts.”

So, she Googled solutions and came across something called ‘Challenge Day’, a restorative workshop for intermediate and secondary students that tackles bullying, violence, and anti-social behaviour.

“It has a mental health factor to it. It’s holding kids, it's empathy training, it’s super hands-on. It put students out of their comfort zone.”

Elenor says her “heart burst” when she saw the difference it was making both empathetically and compassionately. But, with a lack of confidence and no support, she cast the idea aside.

“I was deflated, I didn’t think anyone valued it, so I left it.” Fast-forward 17 years, and she is now set to bring the workshop to Nelson this May.

“I picked the idea up again a year ago and it’s just gone up.” Elenor says something needs

to change.

“There are kids coming to school who feel helpless. In my experience, we are very afraid to talk about stuff like this,” she says.

“We are one of the worst countries in the OECD for bullying, I know that our suicide statistics are among some of the worst in the world, so there’s your starting point.

She says one response she had about bringing Challenge Day to Nelson was, ‘oh, it might open up a can of worms’.

“But do you know what? I wish someone opened up a can of worms.”

A pilot workshop will be held at Broadgreen Intermediate on 1 May.

“The workshop is for the community - it could be a concerned parent, an educator, or someone in the youth sector. This will show them what Challenge Day is. It is hugely restorative, you are not going to sit there and take notes all day, you experience it all.” This will be followed by two days of ‘actual’ Challenge Day at the school, 100 students at a time.

“During those two days, we will have 25-plus community members, including police, Nelson’s deputy mayor, players from the Tasman Mako and Nelson Giants, councillors, and youth workers.”

Challenge Day originated in America and has been around for 35 years. It is also in The Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and Canada.

“It’s worked with police, youth justice systems, and workplaces that have a culture of bullying,” says Elenor.

“I’ve spoken with a school principal in Canada, and she says they have been running Challenge Day every year for 10 years at their school. They now have less truancy, kids are feeling safer, more included, and more relaxed to be themselves.

“They have also documented that some of the test scores are going up and there has been a drop in violence and unwanted behaviours.”

The co-founders of the programme are coming over the facilitate the Nelson pilot, as Elenor says she still needs to train a male leader - which will take time and funding.

Once she has done that, she is hoping to take it around Nelson, Tasman, and Marlborough and then nationwide.

“But for now, I need community buy-in and people to come to the workshop.”

To register your interest for the workshop or to find out more about Challenge Day, email Elenor at elly.aleksich@me.com

YOU’LL ALWAYS FIND WHAT YOU NEED in Richmond

HELP YOUR COMMUNITY RAISE MORE FUNDS:

It is simple…If you have a friend, family member, neighbour or work colleague who refers a property listing to Harcourts Nelson and Richmond that results in a successful sale, they will donate $500 directly to your organisation.

All you have to do is ensure you tell as many people as possible about it in order to maximise the number of donations coming your way. Want to know more? Get in touch with Chris at Harcourts Richmond: 03 544 4441.

NEW TO RICHMOND!

Teaology have opened their doors on Queen Street serving a refreshing mix of bubble tea, smoothies, fruit coffees and yogurt slushies.

Whilst they’re still waiting on signage, seating, and permanent fixtures you can pop in to enjoy these tasty beverages with SO many options of toppings, sweeteners, ice the list goes on! Keep up to date with Teaology on Facebook @teaology4u

WELCOMING COMMUNITIES GLOBAL CAFÉ:

Are you new to Tasman or have been in the last couple of years?

The Welcoming Communities Tasman team are holding a Global Café at Richmond Library on March 21 from 4 – 6pm. Come along and enjoy international snacks and hot drinks and have a chat about your settling experiences.

For more information on what the team does and how you can get involved check them out on Facebook: @WelcomingCommunitiesTasman.

Elenor Aleksich is bringing the acclaimed anti-bullying programme ‘CHallege Day’ to Nelson this May. Photo: Kate Russell.

Wakefield community bus goes on demand

JO KENT

The Wakefield Community Bus is now available for use on demand after the Nelson Tasman Community Transport Trust recently purchased an 8-seater Nissan Serena Hybrid to replace the 12-seater bus previously hired from the Wakefield Homestead. Marketing co-ordinator of the trust, Rachel Mason, says owning their own bus means they are fully flexible as to when they can use it.

“The bus is still currently running every Tuesday. However, now we have our own bus, we’re able to run it as often and when we like, provided there are enough volunteer drivers.”

The trust is currently exploring the possibility of hiring out the transport to groups or individuals.

The hire rate is expected to be equivalent to the current bus fare of $5, for a return trip to Richmond with the vehicle half full. This would be about $25 for the distance from Wakefield to Richmond, equating to $5.50 per person including driver.

Rachel believes that if a group or individuals can fill the vehicle to capacity, the cost per person would be even less.

The trust is currently finalising the hire agreement form and procedures, but you can already register your interest by contacting

Rachel directly.

“The vehicle will still be running the door-to-door service on Tuesdays as a bus for individuals who want to travel to Richmond for the $5 fare, or $4 from Brightwater.”

Provided there is sufficient interest and enough volunteer drives,

Rachel hopes to expand the service to at least two days per week.

“To be a volunteer driver, you have to be based in Wakefield. There is no commitment or obligations. If you want to drive once a month, that’s fine. Or if you need to swap a shift, you can. Any time volunteered is very much

appreciated.”

Volunteer drivers leave Wakefield around 9.30am and return just after lunchtime.

“One lady who uses the bus has a husband with dementia, so this is the only bit of respite she gets. Our volunteer drivers make a huge difference to people. Volun-

teering is a community-minded, nice thing to do.

“Drivers usually go off for a swim or shop while in Richmond themselves, so they aren’t sat twiddling their thumbs, waiting around.”

If you’d like to volunteer for a shift, contact Rachel on 020 4196 0553.

Experience the best of Nelson at Atom Café

Welcoming locals and visitors alike, Rutherford Hotel Nelson’s Atom Café is once again open for business. Operating for over 50 years, Rutherford Hotel Nelson has a longstanding history in the region as one of Nelson’s leading hotels and premier conference centres, with a deep pride for delivering exceptional service and experiences for all who visit.

Rutherford Hotel has been Nelson’s ideal meeting destination since 1972 and is the perfect place to catch up with friends for a coffee, enjoy a dinner, or even get away for a night.

Located in the heart of the city, just a few minutes’ walk from the CBD, the modern Atom Café is open five days a week, Monday to Friday from 8:30am through to 4pm on the Ground Floor of Rutherford Hotel. General Manager Alexander Siebentritt says expertly pulled coffees are the order of the day at Atom Café.

“Join us for your morning kick-start, or your afternoon pick-me-up while sampling from

our range of delectable homemade sweets and savouries. Be it a quick stop off to recharge, a quiet hideaway to contemplate life or a venue to plan matters of enterprise – the welcoming staff at Atom Café will tend to your every need.”

The café offers delicious handmade cabinet food using fresh locally sourced products and ingredients. Excited to open after three years of being closed, the Atom Café offers a wide array of freshly baked delicacies, seasonal favourites, smoothies and freshly squeezed juices for breakfast, morning tea, lunch or afternoon tea and Vegan, Gluten Free and Dairy Free options amongst their daily selection.

“Our team at Rutherford Hotel Nelson is dedicated to excellence in service. Through commitment to our people, we aim to exceed expectations and create an atmosphere where guests can be somewhere special.

Let us show you our Manaakitanga, we can’t wait to welcome you.”

Sarah Brooks has been a volunteer driver for just over a year. Photo: Jo Kent.

Richmond’s pet pantry closing

JO KENT

It’s been six months since Jess Brougham opened a community pet pantry from her garage in Richmond, but she says it’s now time to close.

“Times are hard and so many people are struggling, so there is absolutely still a need for it. But it’s very demanding for one person to manage.”

Jess says people want you to drop things to them immediately and she relies on people for donations.

“There are a lot of generous people, but a lot of them are struggling themselves.”

Jess has a family, and since having a baby in December has had to scale back her commitments and make compromises.

“I could continue to run the pantry but, realistically, it was all getting a bit overwhelming. I wanted to make it work. I know I can make it work, but at the same time, I’m stretched too thinly.”

The pet pantry has helped many families within the community, as well as volunteer rescue organisations, the SPCA and dog pounds.

“Donations aren’t easy to come by and I have approached various places for food supplies, but there are other people and other rescues who are approaching them too who also really need support and I don’t want to take help away from them.”

Leftover donations all have homes to go to and Jess will now focus her attention to supporting existing groups as and when she gets anything dropped to her door.

“There is a need for pet food, and

it’s been good to educate people to acknowledge that, and to have had so many people donate. It was amazing.

“But rather than encouraging someone else to take over my pet pantry, I think we need to support the other places that are already out there doing it.”

Jess has volunteered to be a cat food drop-off point for Tabby’s Kitten Rescues.

“Fiona, who runs it, is at breaking point and struggling to stay afloat, so I really want to help her if I can. Message her Facebook page and she will give out the drop-off addresses. And if you want to donate dog food, please consider Kai with Love.”

Jess Brougham has closed down to support other organisations in the region.

Photo: Jo Kent.

Cynthia and Shylo Cave, Rochelle Birks

Eloise and Clare Galbraith, Marijke and Zoe Ransom

Jess, Ardan, Kaia and Gary Warner

A day of reflection MP

Today we remember March 15, four years on It is a time to reflect and and acknowledge the 51 shaheed who died as a result of the terrorist attack We as a Government are continuing our work to ensure that New Zealand is diverse, safe and inclusive, making our country a better home for all who live here

On Sunday I stood at the finish line at the Weet-Bix Kids TRYathalon and was honoured to present medals to so many incredible young people as they finished their run, cycle and swim I always enjoy my time at this iconic annual event seeing the happy kids' faces as they make it to the finish line

Last week I spent time with Janet, an incredible 91 year old Nelsonian Janet has hand knitted 63 (and counting) items for Ukraine! The story is on my Facebook page Thank you for being such an inspiration Janet!

Next week is a busy Nelson week I'm taking the time to meet with all the school Principals across the district This weekend however, I look forward to seeing you at the Multicultural Festival at Founders Park

A chance to celebrate the many different cultures that make up Nelson!

and

Nelson man to take on top excavator operators

KATE RUSSELL

Nelsonian Simon Wenham will have his, and his excavator’s, mettle tested this week when he shows off his skills in a 13-tonne digger at the CCNZ CablePrice National Excavator Operator Competition.

Simon is one of 13 champions from around New Zealand whose excavator skills will be pushed to the limit over a series of epic and enthralling challenges during the Central Districts Field Days on 17 and 18 March.

Some of the challenges will test ‘real-world’ skills such as traversing a trench and digging around pipelines, whilst other more unique tasks may include slam dunking a basketball into a two-storey concrete pipe using an excavator’s bucket, and a slalom course.

Simon qualified for the

event after his success in the Nelson Marlborough regional competition in November.

He is an owner-operator of Wenham Contracting and says he is looking forward to meeting the country’s top-of-the-line digger drivers.

“It’ll be a lot of fun.”

CCNZ chief executive Alan Pollard says the competition, which has been running since 1994, is about celebrating the exceptional skill of New Zealand’s top excavator operators and inspiring the next generation to get behind the controls.

“The more unusual tests of skill always bring the spectators, but the competition also has a more serious side, with plenty of more traditional tasks such as trenching, operating around underground services, and tests of operator’s health and safety knowledge,” Alan says.

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Simon Wenham with his regional champion award. Photo: Supplied.

Locals vent anger at attack on Berryfield eels

Would have all come about after the first article saying not to feed them, everyone then knows where they are sadly. Sometime best just not to report things and just put a sign up saying not to feed them.

Natalie Krammer

Someone killed some eels in Stoke too.

Mitch Andrew

How sad! Those eels were so neat and friendly.

Cassie Parker

Put a camera up.

Cheryll Edwards

Families paying more to bus students to outof-zone schools

Not if they go to the closest school in their zone though.

Diane Chandler

There are valid reasons to not use

in-zone schools, especially with the bullying and variable education standards. The best fit for the student will enhance their education and motivation. The cost is ridiculous, $50 a week to get to school.

Dave Trigg

What about another school out that way....with all the housing developments maybe a Yr7 to Yr13 would be a good option.

Sue Biggs

Why don’t the families of those children get together and buy their own bus?

Terry Beach

Electrix cheer take to global stage

So exciting. Congratulations again.

Brehana Summer

Good on you, girls.

Andrea Grocott

Going viral at St Paul’s School

What’s On!

Vintage Machinery Show

Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 March, 10am3.30pm Higgins Heritage Park, Wakefield

Featuring tractors, trucks, engines, free rides, traction engines, operational sawmill and demos on how things work. Lolly scramble, food and coffee trucks on site, plus a sausage sizzle. Tickets $10, kids free. EFTPOS available.

Tasman Skatepark Series

Saturday 18 March, 12.30pm-3pm

Neale Park, Nelson

This is a great chance to show off (or spectate) skateboard, BMX and scootering skills and compete against other contestants from the district. Fun to watch or take part.

Multicultural Festival 2023

Sunday 19 March, 11am-4pm

Founders Heritage Park, Nelson

Enjoy the music, songs, dance and food from around the world. Check out arts and crafts and community stalls. Gold coin entry.

Absolute LEGEND of a Man, and very talented! Andrew Welch

One very clever man. So pleased he is getting recognition for his talents. Lucky St Paul's to have him. He also

gardens!

Trish Hildyard

And he was the music teacher at Brightwater for a few years and now at St Paul’s he is one great person, the kids just love him.

Tess Mangos

My kids in my class love this song! I’ve even done a school production using it. Such a classic.

Kirstie Allison

Lovely guy!! Super talented and great at inspiring kids to blossom and sing and gain confidence on stage. Sonnie Watson

Awesome. Years ago, where I heard this sung with actions by the kids in assembly it brought tears to my eyes. Such a joyous

Fruit and veggie exchange taking off

Brilliant idea, and considering the prices in supermarkets it’s the best way to go. Many have been driven to grow their own food again, just like our grandparents.

Sarah-Hope Bailey

We swap produce from our veggie garden and fruit trees with our neighbours. Don’t let good healthy food go to waste, give it away or swap it. What a fantastic initiative.

Dave Trigg

Barter...not new but forgotten in developing countries that have

put a lot of focus on commercialism instead of community survival. There is definitely room for both. Donna-marie Quinn

Such a cool idea.

Sian Clement

Let’s get the vege garden pumping. Holly Turner

That’s awesome. Christine Boal

Cycling the world led to Richmond restaurant

It’s amazing what one person can achieve for the good of others. Amazing story!

Shaz Nicholls

song. Nadean Simmons

Partnership assists end-of-life care

Nelson Tasman Hospice has partnered with NBS to continue delivering much-needed services to the region.

NBS chief executive Tony Cadigan says the company understands the importance of supporting those who provide end-of-life care.

“We are honoured to partner with the Nelson-Tasman Hospice, knowing that our support will make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and families facing end-of-life care.”

While the sponsorship is a continuation of a partnership that has been in place since 2018, NBS general manager Howie Timms says it’s seen as a long-term collaboration.

“I don’t think people understand the massive amount of money needed so Hospice can simply operate, maintaining its invaluable service to so many.”

Howie says NBS was approached to contribute to the new building and although he was working in Motueka at that time he attended the opening in 2019.

“While there was a sigh of relief the financial goal had been achieved with providing the new building, it’s the day-to-day expenses that are critical but not fully provided by government.”

He says NBS understands the importance of providing comfort, dignity, and compassion during life’s most difficult moments.

“Supporting the Hospice aligns with our values and mission to make a positive impact in the communities we serve,” Howie says.

“I would hate to see any reduction in services and that is why we see our support continuing, as is the need.”

NBS is also naming rights sponsor for the biennial Dancing for a Cause – Nelson Hospice, which raised $248,000 in 2021. The next event, on May 27, will carry the NBS name.

Howie says NBS likes to help with the annual volunteer garden party to thank the hundreds of volunteers who support the work of Nelson

Tasman Hospice across a myriad of roles, from Hospice shop staff through to hairdressers, flower arrangers and life story writers.

“We are lucky enough to be in the privileged position of being able to give a large amount of our profit back to the community, but I appreciate that is not the case for others.

“I would encourage any Nelson business in a position to help to do so.

“While I have not had a close family member use the services of Nelson Tasman Hospice, I have heard the stories from families who have,” he says.

“We must ensure it can continue without any reduction in services.”

From left: Nic Foster, Tony Gray, Dr Jodie Battley, Tony Cadigan, Paul Bell and Donna Ching-Tregidga outside the Specialist Palliative Care unit at Nelson Tasman Hospice. Photo: Supplied.

More businesses opening in Richmond West

ANNE HARDIE

Businesses continue to sprout in Richmond West with two early childhood centres and a restaurant on the verge of opening their doors.

BestStart Berryfields Crossing has already held open days for parents and centre manager Liz Kelly says it will be open for business as soon as it gains the required licence from the Ministry of Education.

The centre is part of the largest early childhood education provider in the country.

However, Liz says Berryfields will develop its own vision and philosophy to meet the needs of the community and that will be done over time in consultation with families.

Not far away at Central Park in the Meadows, Wildflowers Early Learning Centre is nearing completion and will also be welcoming preschoolers soon. The boutique childcare centre is being developed by friends Amy Bank and Hannah Lovell, who want to create a holistic approach to childcare. Amy says it will also need to wait

for the licence to operate and hopes the centre can open by late March or early April.

The two early childhood centres are part of the expanding developments in the Berryfields-Meadows area.

At Berryfield Crossing around the Silky Otter Cinemas, Eat Italy Ristorante Pizzeria is adding the final touches and owner Cherif El Bakkali says he hopes to open this month.

Joe’s Garage is still in the construction phase beside the cinema. The café, bar and grill, combined with music, originated in Queenstown’s old post office sorting room come ‘garage’ and has grown to a nationwide chain. Space is available in the Berryfield Crossing complex for a further food and beverage business. The overall development centres around a village green which includes a playground that is already in place.

A two-storied professional services building is also planned adjacent to the hospitality complex but that will be in a future stage of the development.

Teacher in training Kate Schroder (left) and centre manager Liz Kelly are ready for preschoolers at the new BestStart early childhood centre. Photo: Anne Hardie.

Unlicensed to ride: Disqualified driver charged over burnouts on electric dirtbike

TRACY NEAL

Open Justice Reporter

A disqualified driver who has failed to get his licence back, despite repeated attempts over the past 20 years, has found out the hard way that the bike he was caught doing burnouts on in town didn’t pass as an e-bike.

Peter Rolton has since learned that not only did he need a current driver’s licence to ride the particular Sur-Ron electric motorbike in town, but it needed to be registered.

Following a long history of driving offences leading to his indefinite disqualification, the 41-year-old was back in court last week, having caught the police’s attention last July with his post-midnight riding in central Nelson.

Things unravelled further up until last December when the police saw him riding the same bike out of a supermarket carpark.

He appeared last week for sentencing, having earlier admitted three separate charges of driving while disqualified on a third or subsequent time, and two charges of operating a motor vehicle causing sustained loss of traction.

“He didn’t know it was a vehicle,” his lawyer Tony Bamford said, adding that Rolton had unfortunately put himself in the position in which he now found himself.

Sentencing was adjourned for the court to seek more information.

Rolton was close to breaking down in court when a judge decided to take a different route in the hope of getting to the bottom of what was behind his difficulties, rather than impose what might have been community detention.

“You have been trying hard yet here you are again and that makes me sad,” Judge Jo Rielly told Rolton as he stood sniffing quietly in the dock of the Nelson District Court.

Rolton had been sentenced to periods of disqualification 10 times between 1999 and 2019, the police summary of facts showed.

He was disqualified indefinitely in 2001 but has since been convicted of driving while disqualified a further four times, the latest, until now, in 2019. In October 2018 he was also convicted on a charge of driving with excess breath alcohol

International visitors back with a bang

After a couple of very tough years for the region, visitor spending has increased to pre-Covid levels - faster than expected.

Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) visitor spend data shows that spending in December 2022 returned to above levels seen before Covid arrived in the country.

Visitor spend data (MBIE, February 2023) shows Nelson Tasman visitor spending in December 2022 returned to above pre-Covid levels, with international visitors back with a bang.

Domestic visitors spent $30.8m in the region during December 2022 compared with $27.2m during the same month in 2019.

offsetting the lack of international visitation,” says Nelson Regional Development Agency (NRDA) chief executive Fiona Wilson

“That unusual situation has reverted back to a more normal pattern and thus the return of international visitor spend is very significant.” She says building resilience in the sector and extending the season is key.

“It is great to share some good news, but we know that these results must be taken in the context of the relatively high inflation of the last six to nine months, and the much-increased input costs our tourism and retail businesses are struggling with, like other sectors.

on a third or subsequent time. At around 12.30am on July 24, 2022, Rolton was riding the unregistered Sur-Ron electric bike through an area of busy nightclubs in central Nelson.

The police saw him stop at a traffic light, and then hold the bike as he accelerated which caused the rear wheel to spin for 10 seconds, causing a cloud of smoke from the tyre.

He then rode off and a short way down the road did another burnout, this time for 16 seconds, creating another large cloud of smoke.

The police approached on foot and signalled him to stop, but he ignored the request and turned into a nearby carpark on the wrong side of the road. When the police finally caught up with Rolton he told them he wasn’t aware of any regulations over his particular motorbike.

Not only did he need a licence to ride it, but the bike needed to be registered, which it wasn’t.

A spokesperson for Christchurch-based Black Sheep Trading, which deals in e-bikes, scooters and the SurRon electric motorbike, told Open Justice there are road-legal versions of the bike, meaning they can be ridden on the road but operators still needed to follow all laws.

Only motorised bikes below 300 watts did not require a licence.

The road-legal Sur-Ron was a moped-class bike with a 3500watt motor.

On the night of August 6 last year Rolton was again riding the bike through central Nelson. Police spoke to him when he parked it on the footpath

and then walked the bike out of the area.

Once the police left he got on it and rode off.

Just before 5pm on December 13, Rolton was seen by an off-duty police officer pulling into a supermarket carpark on the unregistered bike. CCTV footage then showed him driving on a nearby street. He declined to comment when the police caught up with him. The court heard last week Rolton had struggled to get his licence back over the past 20 years.

Judge Rielly said it seemed that he had now admitted his problems, which were not detailed, and had been open about what he was suffering, which had never been diagnosed.

“If he could fix that, then everything else might fall into place,” Judge Rielly suggested. She said, despite earlier assessments and attempts to access help, Rolton needed to take further steps for himself to access more meaningful help.

“Mr Rolton, you’re quite an enigma because you have done all the programmes and I’m worried about the impact of community detention.

“I think you need to know what a psychologist says about how you can fix how you are feeling,” Judge Rielly said. Rolton fought back tears as he responded from the dock.

“I’ve been trying to get my licence back, but it’s so hard.”

He was remanded until May 30 for a psychologist’s report.

International visitors spent $11.7m during the final month of last year compared with $11.4m in 2019. The figures follow on from a good spend in November and brings the annual total visitor spend to $299m for the year 2022 year; $8m more than the pre-Covid 2019 annual total.

“Looking back to the Covid-restricted summer of 2021/22, we saw a very welcome significant increase in domestic visitation and spending, and this went a long way towards

“The August flood events highlighted how quickly and heavily this sector can be negatively impacted and our deep sympathies go to the communities in the north dealing with the impacts of such devastation.” Tracee Nielson, visitor destination manager, says that while the news is good for operators, hospitality and accommodation providers, visitors bring more to the region than just their wallets. “It is not just about the money visitors spend while in the region, visitors bring a wonderful sense of vibrancy too,” she says.

Upcoming Talking Cafés

Tuesday 21st March 10-11 30am McCashin s Brewery, 660 Main Road Stoke

Wednesday 22nd March 1 30-3pm Halifax Café, 28 Halifax Street, Nelson

Tuesday 4th April 10-11 30am McCashin's Brewery, 660 Main Road Stoke

Tuesday 11th April 1.30-3pm Richmond Library, 280 Queen Street, Richmond

Thursday 13th April 1 30-3pm Nightingale Library, 2 Beach Road, Tāhunanui

For more details: wellby.org.nz or phone (03) 546 7681

Motorbike or e-bike? Disqualified driver Peter Rolton found out the hard way when he was seen doing burnouts on a SurRon electric motorbike, similar to the one pictured here.

Photo: Black Sheep Trading.

Want to have a say in how our health services operate?

Join our consumer network and share your thoughts.

We have a mission to work with the people of our community to promote, encourage and enable their health, wellbeing and independence. To achieve this, we recognise that individuals, families, whānau and communities need a voice in the system.

We know that engaging with you as our health consumers provides many benefits for not only our community but healthcare workers and providers.

We have created a consumer network so we can listen to your ideas, suggestions and feedback about our health system. Anyone who accesses health services can join the consumer network, it’s free and there is no minimum commitment. We would love to hear from you.

To find out more and to register head to www.nmdhb.govt.nz/consumers

Advance Care Planning

What matters most to you when you think about your health changing?

How would you communicate your wishes, values and preferences to the health care team and your loved ones? What health care would you want, or not want if you were unable to talk?

An Advance Care Plan (ACP), is one way in capturing these decisions.

Come along to an information session for more information, have your questions answered and access some of the resources available to you.

Tuesday 21 March 2023 1pm- 2:30pm

Age Concern Richmond, 62 Oxford St

To register contact Marnie on 544 7624 ext5 or email ageconnect@ageconcernnt.org.nz

Wednesday 15 March 2023

Seifrieds recognised for lifetime of devotion

SARA HOLLYMAN and BOBBY NIJSSEN

A couple who have devoted much of their lives to the region’s wine industry have been honoured for their contribution.

Hermann and Agnes Seifried were inducted into the Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame at the Nelson Pine Industry Awards last month.

The couple were pioneers of the viticulture industry in the region when they first planted grapes in the Moutere more than 50 years ago. Today their wines are exported to more than 25 countries around the world, and they employ a core staff of 50, growing to more than 100 during the harvest.

Agnes says, when they were told they were to be inducted their initial

thought was to turn the award down.

“We always fly below the radar. We’re never really one to put ourselves up on a pedestal,” she says. But after discussing it with their family they decided they would accept.

“The decision was made together that we should probably accept it because obviously we employ a lot of people in the area, we have sold a lot of wine in the area and we have a lot of very warm supporters in the area.”

Austria-born Hermann grew up on an apple orchard but was drawn to viticulture from a young age.

He arrived in New Zealand at the beginning of January 1971, and met Agnes not long after on Mt Robert at a work party.

It has always been a place they have returned to for skiing, including later hiking up there with their three

children in back packs.

The pair dedicated their lives to the industry but say they are still learning every day.

“You never finish.”

They say their business grew day by day, season by season. Hermann says good support from both New Zealand and export markets helped.

“We probably had the right variety at the right time, that all helped.”

“We’ve grown really slowly as we could afford to and as we could see the market was there,” Agnes adds.

Hermann says there were a lot of negative attitudes towards viticulture when they first planted grapes 50 years ago.

“People thought you wouldn’t grow grapes here, because it hadn’t been done,” Agnes says. “So nobody had the confidence to say ‘we’ll go and do it’, Continued over.

Hermann and Agnes Seifried were inducted into the Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame last month.

Photo: Tim Cuff.

Farmers have need for feed

Feeding animals is the most important factor to successful farming, regardless of what type of farmer you are.

It requires a great deal of skill, knowledge and practice to be able to feed animals optimally throughout all the seasons. An animal will only perform at its potential if it is fed well. Devastatingly, many farmers in the North Island have had their valuable feed crops completely

wiped out by Cyclone Gabrielle, which has created significant feed shortage set to last months.

Last year in the North Island around 1.2 million tonnes of maize silage was produced as supplementary feed for livestock animals, particularly on dairy farms, but entire crops have been lost to the cyclone.

Add to this the current situation where grass in paddocks in under silt and hay or silage that was on

hand has been washed away and it’s easy to see how there is a need for feed.

“It’s a worst-case scenario up North,” says Stephen Todd, president of Nelson and Tasman Federated Farmers, and a dairy farmer himself.

Flood affected paddocks will be unusable for some time so it is anticipated that the need for feed will continue increase. “Some need feed now and others will

be needing feed in the months ahead.”

“Lots of local farmers and growers want to help but the reality is we can’t get feed into the affected areas as the roads are impassable,” says Stephen. Donations of feed are appreciated but if you are wanting to support those affected then officials are advising the best way to help is through cash donations.

“Cash donations mean people up

there on the ground can source feed, fencing stuff and other farming materials then navigate with locals to get it there through the challenging roading situation.”

Donations can be made to many different agricultural organisations on line and in store, such as Federated Farmers, who will use the funds to help farmers directly.

Distributed to 12,232 homes in Richmond, Hope, Brightwater, Wakefield and Murchison. 5000 rural properties including all farms and lifestyle blocks and small towns.

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Seifrieds recognised for lifetime of devotion

Continued.

‘we’ll lend you the money’ or ‘we’ll support your application’.”

Hermann says it wasn’t scary, it was what he knew, and he had the support of Agnes the entire way.

He says he has always enjoyed viticulture because you generally have contact with the end consumer.

Growing up on an apple orchard he found that wasn’t the same.

“You sell an apple on the market, and you don’t know where it goes, with wine you have contact which gives extra satisfaction.”

“When he first came to New Zealand he was making apple wine, but found that he wasn’t getting the satisfaction that he knew he had got previously from grapes,” Agnes says.

All three of the couple’s children have now made their way into the business.

“The kids started to study wine and they all came home one by

one,” Agnes says.

Hermann says it’s satisfying working with his family.

“Someone is carrying on with the interest that we have started,” he says.

The pair still grow some of the original 14 varieties that were planted five decades ago. While they grow mostly the same varieties each year, every season is different so the grapes ripen differently, have more flavour and provide a bigger or smaller crop.

Agnes says the climate is very different to what it was.

“Way back then we used to start our harvest at the very end of March, and we’d pick into

April and early May. Today, the last two or three vintages we’ve been finished by the end of March, it’s coming forward, forward, forward.”

Hermann says they are still very much involved in the business and still take part in the first taste of wine when it’s ready.

“You have an expectation of what you expect to taste in each wine.”

During a harvest they estimate they would pick 3000 tonne of grapes across their 350 hectares of vineyards, which equates to roughly three million bottles of wine.

They say their journey has been filled with memorable

moments but one that stands out is when they sent their first consignment of wine to the UK in the mid-80s.

“That was pretty exciting, then a few years later we got a trophy for best Sauvignon Blanc in the world at a UK competition, that was pretty special,” Agnes says.

“Then we got wine listed on Virgin Atlantic Airlines and British Airways, they’re significant ones.

“There’s some pretty special places that our wine sells, like The Ritz Hotel, but today we don’t get quite so excited because we’ve got so much to sell we are happy to see it go wherever.

“There’s some pretty obscure countries that are enjoying our wines, like Kazakhstan. The couple now have six grandchildren aged between eight and 12 and Hermann hopes they will show an interest in the industry.

“It’s still early days.”

Benson Haywood - Territory Manager

fuel delivery you can depend on

People thought you couldn’t grapes here because it hadn’t been done

Agnes Seifried

Dairy industry’s finest recognised in awards

Sharing the enthusiasm for dairy farming with like-minded people has already been rewarding for West Coast Top of the South Dairy Industry Awards ‘Share Farmer of the Year’ contestants, Merryn and Michael Ashton. The couple are sharemilkers on a Sherry River farm where they milk 400 cows, along with managing a pedigree Jersey stud they brought with them from Hawke’s Bay 18 months ago.

Though Michael is a third-generation dairy farmer, Merryn was a radiation therapist before switching her indoor job for milking cows and she is loving the job and loving the cows.

The couple join more than 20 other entrants in the awards programme with winners revealed at tomorrow evening’s awards dinner at The West Coast Event’s Centre in Shantytown.

Merryn says the best part about entering the awards is meeting like-minded people who share their enthusiasm for dairy farming, while learning more that will benefit their business.

“It’s been a great learning experience and good to get feedback from the judges. It’s such a positive experience.”

Likewise, fellow contestants for

the Share Farmer of the Year award, Mark and Esther Tubman, say the competition is a chance to mix with other positive people in the industry and learn more.

Mark came to New Zealand in 2013 for a six-month holiday and never left. Today they milk 350 cows on Esther’s parents farm at Puramahoi after progressing their way up the dairy ladder. Entering the awards was the next step.

“It’s more about being with all the positive people in the dairy industry. If you mix with like-minded people, you do well in the dairy industry. It’s a wonderful industry.”

The programme promotes learning, connecting and positive growth for all involved, as well as recognising top dairy talent, and runs at a regional level until April before the regional winners head to the national finals to be held in Auckland on Saturday 13 May.

The West Coast Top of the South region is large, covering Marlborough, Nelson, Tasman and the West Coast, with entrants from all corners of the region beginning their preparation for judging back in February.

The competition began with entrants and sponsors coming together with regional committee

members and past winners for a light-hearted event which was held at the Reefton Golf Club Rooms in January.

West Coast/Top of South regional manager Michelle Coates says that the Reefton entrant/sponsor event provided a great opportunity for those involved in the awards programme to connect.

“It is a particularly good opportunity for our entrants and sponsors

to get to know each other in a relaxed environment,” she says.

“Without our fantastic team of national and regional sponsors we simply couldn’t run this programme, and we always get great feedback on the benefit of getting together at the entrant/sponsor night.”

The six dairy trainees, five dairy managers and five share farmer finalists will be waiting with bated

breath to see who will take out the 2023 regional winner titles. There are also merit awards up for grabs, from the dairy trainee Emerging Talent to the People & Leadership Award for the dairy managers, and Business Performance Award in the share farmer category.

The regional awards’ programme is run by a small, dedicated volunteer committee.

Tapawera sharemilkers Merryn and Michael Ashton are finalists in this year’s Dairy Industry Awards.

Photo: Supplied.

Proposed firearm licence fee increase ‘ridiculous’

“Ridiculous” is how Martin O’Connor, president of Nelson Waimea Clay Target Sporting Club, sums up his thoughts around the current proposed cost increase to the 10-year firearm licence.

Police are proposing to increase the cost of firearm licences, and if the bill is passed then the 10year licence could increase from $126.50 to $727.50, which is almost a 500 per cent increase and could have worrying consequences.

Firearm, gun, licence fees are being reviewed because the Government is currently covering much of the processing costs itself.

Over the last 10 years it spent $115.2 million, while firearms users of the regulatory services contributed just $26.4m. So, a price increase to cover the costs is needed, however, there is real concern that such a large price increase, during a time where cost of living is in crisis, will result in illegal gun use.

“Most gun owners will accept that there needs to be an increase but not to this ridiculous amount,” says Martin. “The increase should be kept to a minimum to keep people using the

system, otherwise we will end up with less compliance and that will work against what the police and government are trying to achieve, which would be a real worry.”

Police have been working through a backlog of applications which lead to a blanket extension being granted to firearms licenses last year. A police statement said firearm licencing fees have remained static since 1999, costing around $126.50, less than 15 per cent of

the true price to issue them.

In New Zealand, 248,764 licenced shooters own an estimated 1.2-1.7 million guns. Police data showed about 9 per cent of licence holders had one for employment or business purposes, 1 per cent as a memento, and 90 per cent for food gathering, recreational or sporting purposes. While firearms can be a controversial topic, they are an important part of New Zealand life and

are used daily as farming tools, sports such as clay target shooting, and pest control for deer, rabbits, possums and hares in particular.

“An increase in unwanted pests could be one of the unintended consequences of this reform, if it goes to the extreme proposed level,” says Martin.

Firearms also play a part in mental and physical well-being by providing an opportunity for

some to get away from work or home, and to connect with mates via hunting. By increasing the gun licence cost it will mean that not everyone can afford a gun licence and many locals feel that obtaining a firearms license should not be a privilege. David Baigent, a local sporting shooter and sheep and cattle farmer, says “It’s just another tax on the good ones – how many criminals handed their guns in during the gun buy back?”

There are also other new barriers to obtaining a firearms licence, irrespective of cost. One of them being the 30-page application form which is now only able to be completed on line.

“It’s really frustrating, a lot of rural people have problems with internet connectivity and then there are those who don’t know how to use the internet at all,” says Martin. “You should still be able to fill it in at the local police station or through the arms officer, a lot of people will put this in the too hard basket which will increase the number of illegal firearms out there which is not good.”

Currently applicants have to have several supporting documents and referees, complete a safety course, and be vetted by police.

Caltex Wakefield

Farmlands Richmond

Farmlands Motueka

PGG Wrightson Murchison

Brightwater NPD

BMTT

Tractor Repairs & Spares Richmond

Harcourts Richmond

Bayleys Wakefield

Tasman Honda

MS Ford

Top South Media

Farmlands Hokitika

Farmlands Greymouth

Tasman AG Ikamatua

Farmlands Westport

Karamea Visitor’s Centre

PGG Greymouth

Buller Vets

Farmlands Blenheim

Seddon Supermarket

Renwick Supervalue

Tractor Repairs & Spares Renwick

Farmlands Kaikoura

PGG Kaikoura

Rai Valley Brick Oven

4 Square Havelock

TSM Marlborough

ELOISE MARTYN

Increased licence fees have been labelled ‘ridiculous’ by president of a local clay target sports club.

Photo: Supplied.

Connections matter for rural communities

Strong ties with friends, family, workmates and the community can provide us with happiness, security, support and a sense of purpose. Being connected to others is important for our mental and physical well-being and can lower anxiety and depression, help us regulate our emotions, lead to higher self-esteem and empathy, as well as actually improve our immune systems.

Waimea Rural Connections, a recently-formed group, understands how important it is to connect and offers opportunities for people from the primary industries to connect in the hopes of helping reducing the isolation that many in the sector face, as well as offering a break from every day worries.

“The ag sector is a tough sector to be in, often working long days on your own in remote locations. There are constant challenges coming at you from every direction,” says Rachel Fraser, treasurer for Waimea Rural Connections and associate partner at Findex Rural Accounting.

“Human connection is good for you, it can boost your mood especially when you are around others in the sector who also ex-

A new group to connect rural communitites host a Kai and Catch up. Photo: Supplied.

perience the same constant challenges.”

Mental well-being statistics from StatsNZ taken in 2021 highlight that mental health conditions are increasing throughout the country. The proportion of people who experienced poor mental well-being (based on the WHO5 wellbeing index) increased to 28.2 percent, up from 22.3 percent in 2018.

meal on us and enjoy connecting with others.”

A Friday night out with a free meal, good conversation, kid’s activities, a social sport on offer for those who want to join in and a cash bar that also has non-alcoholic options … what’s the catch?

“We need you to come,” says Peggy. “Bring a friend, or a workmate or the family. If you don’t know anyone, you soon will, we are all friendly, just come.”

Please check your proof carefully and approve it or submit corrections by the Final Yo u can now appro ve or submit changes to your ad within the ATOL system at a time that suits you. in your ad proof email to view your ad, then cl ick the APPROVE or CORRECTIONS button right from there -

percentage points); 35 to 44-yearolds (up 7.2 percentage points); and 55 to 64-year-olds (up 7.0 percentage points). Alarmingly, the data surrounding these statistics predict that these figures will continue to rise.

The mean mental well-being score was 15.0 (where 0 is the lowest possible and 25 is the highest).

Also, the proportion of people who experienced ‘poor mental well-being’ increased significantly for several age groups: 15 to 24-year-olds (up 6.3 percentage points); 25 to 34-year-olds (up 7.2

we put our health at risk. The reality is that we’re living in a time of true disconnection. With a cost-of-living crisis and rising mortgage rates it can be easy to get into the eat-work-sleep trap which, over time, can form an unhealthy pattern. Connecting with others is a great way to refuel, recharge and feel refreshed. The group is hosting a series of family-friendly fun nights, named Kai and Catch Up, which are funded by MPI and open to everyone working or associated with the primary industries.

If you, or someone you know, needs help or support, please contact:

• 1737 Free call or text 1737 any time, 24 hours a day to talk or text with a trained counsellor.

• Lifeline Phone 0800 543 354 or 09 522 2999 or text HELP (4357) any time

adver tisingpr

• Suicide Prevention Helpline 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOK0)

Please check your proof carefully and approve it or submit corrections by the Final Proof Alterations Yo u can now appro ve or submit changes to your ad within the ATOL system at a time that suits you. Just follow the in your ad proof email to view your ad, then cl ick the APPROVE or CORRECTIONS button right from there - no new emails

PF OLSEN &

On a positive note, our suicide statistics from the Office of the Chief Coroner state that 2022 was the third year in a row that there has been a year-on-year reduction in suspected suicides. In the financial year to 30 June 2022, 538 people died by suspected suicide and the rate per 100,000 was 10.2. This rate is statistically significantly lower than the average rate over the last 13 financial years. Studies also show that by neglecting our need to connect,

“Kai and Catch Up is about eating kai and having a catch-up,” says Waimea Rural Connections co-ordinator Peggy Storer. “We want you to bring the kids, have a

• Youthline 0800 376 633 or free text 234

• Samaritans 0800 726 666

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Nelson

Nelson Vintage Engine and Machinery Show

Higgins Heritage Park - 222 Pigeon Valley Rd, Wakefield

Celebrating vintage engines at local show

Hosted by the Nelson Vintage Engine and Machinery Club at Higgins Heritage Park on March 18 and 19, all things Ferguson will be on display and open to the public to enjoy at the Vintage Machinery Show.

Boasting a large collection of farming and industry items including small engines, wheeled and crawler tractors, and agriculture and haymaking equipment, organisers promise the two-day event will be filled with fun for both young and old alike with tractors, trucks, engines, free rides, traction engines, an operational sawmill and demonstrations on how things work.

Harry Ferguson skilfully created an entire system of mechanised farming and developed a wide range of agricultural vehicles that not only left a lasting impact in the agricultural industry but are still in use today.

“The show is all about tractors, but this year we are showcasing the Fergy’s. Up until Ferguson developed the tractor system, all implements were pulled. His system changed the game.”

Club member Jock Peter says people come from all over the country to attend the local event. “We already have around 25-30 machines lined up for the event and are praying for a fine weekend.”

The club’s biggest fundraiser of the year will kick off with gates opening at 9.30 on both days.

A demonstration at 11am gets things underway before a parade of Fergusons will make their way around Higgins Heritage Park at 1pm. The Grand Parade at 2pm of all the makes and models of tractors in their collection will follow, while at 3pm visitors will have the opportunity to witness a competition of ‘pure kiwi ingenuity’ followed by a lolly scramble for the kids.

A range of Massey Ferguson DVDs playing in the Tractor Shed will be the perfect opportunity for people ‘take a load off,

and while away a few minutes’, says Jock. These will be running throughout the day. On Sunday at 4pm a presentation of awards won by the various entries will begin.

“Along with tractors there will be bulldozers and engines from days gone by. We will have quite a collection of them from both private collectors and the club members. There will be a demonstration of an operating milk separator, an apple press and an outstanding lantern presentation by one of our club members. Food trucks

and coffee carts will be on site for lunch, plus a sausage sizzle.”

The members of the Nelson Vintage Engine and Machinery Club work hard to bring vintage machines back to their full glory.

With a current membership of 80, the club are always open to welcoming new members into the fold with Jock saying, “I encourage people to join. New people bring new ideas, and we will always welcome new blood. We are right into having people join up.”

The group meet every Thursday

from about 10am and work on a range of projects including restorations and park upkeep. Club meetings take place every second Wednesday of the month. “Keep an eye out for members wearing club badges at the show. They will be happy to answer any questions you may have.”

The Nelson Vintage Engine and Machinery Show is on March 18 and 19 at Higgins Heritage Park, 222 Pigeon Valley Rd, Wakefield. Tickets are $10 for adults, school age kids are free.

Marchfest brews a winning event

KATE RUSSELL

Around 2000 people attended the 15th annual Marchfest earlier this month at Founders Heritage Park, and organisers are already looking ahead to next year’s event.

Organiser Shelley Haring, who is

The high-octane roar of powerboats took over Lake Rotoiti over the weekend for the Lift N Shift 2022 National Power Boat Championships for the 100th anniversary of the regatta. With almost 50 boats entered, the weekend was jam-packed with action as Rat Attack 3 driven by Zach Weller won the Matt Morrison Memorial and Miss Waverley driven by David Alexander took home the 2022-23 Hydro Thunder NZ Championship Series.

Photo: Luton Anderson Photography.

the managing director of Nelson Events and Venues, says while crowd numbers were down on other years, they were happy with how it all went.

“We usually draw in around 3500 people but there were some clashes with other local events on the day, the weather forecast wasn’t

looking good in the lead-up and just the economy in general,” she says.

“But given we had to cancel last year’s event, we are just happy we were able to deliver it. The crowd was great, we had no problems and the weather turned out perfect.”

From a hazy manuka beer, a blackcurrant black larger, a cold brut IPA, and a hopped farmhouse ale, there was something for every beer enthusiast.

Shelley says the two most popular brews on the day were the Hop Federation hazy pale ale ‘March On’ and the Garage Project IPA,

‘Liquid

Refreshment’.

“But all the beers sold pretty much on par with each other.”

Brew talks, a tasting bar, live music and a dedicated kids’ zone were also on offer.

The event will be back in 2024 for its 16th year, with a date yet to be set.

Buy

Focus on Wakefield

Coaltown comes to Wakefield

The love of storytelling, bringing characters to life, and engaging people with New Zealand’s history keeps Chris Green going.

A professional actor and singer since throwing in his ‘safe’ career as an economics teacher in 2013, Chris has performed 100s of shows but keeps coming back to his first professional show, Coaltown Blues by Mervyn Thompson.

“At its essence, it really illuminates the impact of poverty on children,” says Chris, “But it’s based on real people, so it really helps people understand our country’s mining history, small-town New Zealand and even sometimes their own family history.”

Based on a real story, the show depicts both the tragedy and comedy of poverty and politics; the struggles through-

out Thompson’s childhood in a West Coast mining town during the Depression, War and post-War years.

It is both a lively and comical celebration and a heart-wrenching lament for the working class roots from which he came.

Chris says he came upon the play “by accident”, but once he started reading the script he couldn’t put it down.

“It wasn’t long after the Pike River tragedy and it just really spoke to me.”

Featuring a ‘cast’ of 24 characters, Chris says it’s enthralling getting to be 24 different people, all seen through the unflagging optimism of the young boy.

He’s toured the show around the country on numerous occasions, but now it’s Wakefield’s turn.

President of Wakefield Country Players Jen Amosa says

that they’re really excited to be able to host the show.

“I’m pretty excited about a touring show coming to Wakefield,” she says. “It’s the first one we’ve had here in about 15 years.”

The Wakefield Village Hall typically hosts two to three local productions each year, introducing a BYO picnic style of dinner theatre.

“It makes it really affordable and accessible to people,” says Jen.

“They can buy food from the food trucks on Thursday or at one of our local takeaways or bring their own.

“I’ve seen some quite exquisite picnics over the years,” she says.

Coaltown Blues is on at the Wakefield Village Hall, 16 - 18 March at 7.30pm with a matinee show on Sunday 19 March at 2pm.

JUDENE EDGAR

Chris Green will perform Coaltown Blues in Wakefield this week. Photo: Supplied.

Local History

Celebrating 100 years of education in Wakefield

ROBYN PARKES

The 100th anniversary of the founding of the first school at Wakefield was celebrated on Friday, 8th October 1943. The beginnings of education in the Wakefield area came through Mary Baigent who started a small household school to educate her own children and several of her neighbours. It was not until 8th October 1843, that the first recognised school was established there. Following representations from Mr E. Baigent and other settlers, Mr J. T. Smith, a clerk of the New Zealand Company, was convinced to open a school in Wakefield. This was a church school, under the auspices of the Church of England. The first schoolhouse was a cob building to which a wooden building was later added.

Mr Squire followed Mr Smith as master of the school and was in charge until the late 1850’s, when the school came under the con-

trol of the Provincial Educational system. When the New Zealand system came into force the school was included in that scheme.

To mark the centenary, a thanksgiving service for the school children was held in the old church school building, a small distance from the then current school.

A tree planting ceremony was followed by school sports and a picnic at the recreation grounds, and, in the afternoon, the children saw a screening of the film “100 Crowded Years,” depicting the history of education in the Nelson province during the century.

More complete centenary celebrations were organised for later in the year, the committee responsible feeling that the short time available had been insufficient to organise a suitable centennial programme to observe the occasion in a fitting manner on the actual date of the anniversary.

The committee arranged a programme of celebrations for 11th, 12th and 13th December. Memorial gates at the school were unveiled. Their design was modern and attractive, with a panel fence of plaster finish curving back to inner gate posts. The double gates were of iron construction, with the dates 1843 and 1943 inscribed on the posts in scalloped panels. The contractor for the gates was Mr G. Robertson, and for the concrete work, Mr J. E. McPherson, both old boys of the school. The streets of Wakefield were lined with interested spectators to watch the procession of past and present pupils from the Wakefield Domain to the school, headed by the Wakefield Citizens’ Band. The 1843-1883 ex-pupils headed the procession, followed by the groups of each succeeding decade. The decorated vehicles and children in fancy costume followed. The ringing of the school bell by the oldest past commit-

School 1912, Waimea South Collection

teeman, Mr A. Gibbs, started the proceedings at the school. Miss C. A. Morrison, the oldest former school mistress, called the roll of past pupils up to the year 1882. The chairman extended a hearty welcome to both past and present pupils, and he congratulated the Centennial Committee and the headmaster (Mr Watkins) on the successful result of its work.

Speakers were the Hon. W. H. Mclntyre (chairman of the Nelson Education Board), Mr Atmore, M.P., Mr C. A. Baigent (one of the

early scholars), Mr W. E. Poole (a former headmaster), and Mr P. A. Baigent. Thanks were given for 100 years of schoolwork for the children of the Wakefield district and prayer given for the new century in the life of the school. Other functions associated with the centennial celebrations were the school concert on the 10th, and the Centennial Ball on the 13th December. Both functions were held in Robertson’s Hall and in both instances the hall was filled to capacity.

A new eBike charging station has landed at The Villa café in Wakefield offering cyclists the chance to recharge their bikes while they refuel their bellies. Owner Mike Meissner says it’s perfect because the newly-opened Kainui Bike Park is just around the corner. “Electric bike users can now easily ride from Richmond all the way to Wakefield, recharge while enjoying a coffee and great food, then head back. Normally they only get as far as Brightwater.” Cyclists must bring their own charging cables. Photo: Jo Kent.

Info Meetings

Info Meetings

Info Meetings

Are you interested in a rent-to-buy opportunity?

Are you interested in a rent-to-buy opportunity?

Are you interested in a rent-to-buy opportunity?

There are 3x 3-bedroom homes coming to Wakefield that are needing families!

In order to apply, you MUST attend one of the public info meetings below. No pre-registration required. If you are not able to come to one of the meetings, you can have a friend, relative or a colleague representing you during the meeting. Application packs available at the public meetings.

There are 3x 3-bedroom homes coming to Wakefield that are needing families! In order to apply, you MUST attend one of the public info meetings below. No pre-registration required. If you are not able to come to one of the meetings, you can have a friend, relative or a colleague representing you during the meeting. Application packs available at the public meetings.

St Johns Anglican Church Worship center, Wakefield

There are 3x 3-bedroom homes coming to Wakefield that are needing families! In order to apply, you MUST attend one of the public info meetings below. No pre-registration required. If you are not able to come to one of the meetings, you can have a friend, relative or a colleague representing you during the meeting. Application packs available at the public meetings.

Thursday, 23 rd March: 7pm

St Johns Anglican Church Worship center, Wakefield

Saturday , 25 th March: 10am

St Johns Anglican Church Worship center, Wakefield

Thursday 23rd March, 7pm

Thursday, 23 rd March: 7pm

Saturday 25th March, 10am

Saturday , 25 th March: 10am

Please come along and hear more about this Home Ownership Opportunity.

Please

Please come along and hear more about this Home Ownership Opportunity.

Contact: Tor Kiore | Support Services Coordinator 022 135 2922 | Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm

Contact:

41 Nile St East, Nelson • marsdenhouse.co.nz • 03 548 2770

Wakefield

What you can do to be more environmentally friendly?

There are lots of small, achievable changes that ordinary New Zealanders can make to help lower our ecological footprints. It's up to you to decide which work for you, but here are a few ideas:

1. Use public transport, walk, or cycle - around 20% of New Zealand's emissions come from transport. Even just not driving one day a week can make a big difference.

2. Choose renewable electricity - around three-quarters of New Zealand's electricity comes from renewable sources, and WWF's modelling has shown that we could reach 100% renewable electricity by 2025. Some New Zealand electricity companies are powered

by 100% renewable electricity - where does your power come from?

3. Don't waste electricity - You've probably already changed your lightbulbs to LEDs or compact fluorescant bulbs, but it's still great to turn them off when you're not in the room. It also helps to unplug appliances at the wall, wash clothes in cold water (which is often better for the clothes too!) and not use a clothes dryer unnecessarily.

4. Cut waste and recycle - This one's a big win-win. What's good for the world's ecosystems is good for the climate. Rubbish sent to the landfill emits methane, a powerful greenhouse gas.

5. Fly less - Flying has a big carbon footprint. There are alternatives, like taking a bus or train for your holiday elsewhere in New Zealand or replacing an in-person meeting with a videoconference.

6. Eat differently - About half of New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions come from animal agriculture. Eating locallygrown, organic food makes a difference, and cutting out meat and animal products can make an even bigger change. Can you have a plantbased diet just one day a week?

Weka Peckers Recycling is a family-run reuse and resource recovery business in Tasman offering their passion and commitment to contribute to a more sustainable and affordable economy in the Nelson-Tasman area. In the past two years of running the business, Ricarda and Merv have placed the focus on offering sustainable recycling and reuse options by establishing an e-waste recycling drop-off as well as deconstruction services to reduce the amount of building waste going to landfill.

Weka Peckers Recycling offers a wide range of recovered building materials, such as doors, windows, insulation, framing timber, roofing iron and tiles, flooring and a lot more. Our large reuse shop is filled with treasures gallore: vintage, antiques, tools, DIY home projects, furniture, sports gear and more.

“We provide recovered and second-hand building materials, pre-loved household items, clothes, tools and furniture – along with a never-ending, always changing, store of treasures. With the recovery of building materials from landfill, Weka Peckers shows how we can contribute to a circular economy where items are reused and recycled rather than simply discarded. If you are looking at removing an existing house, scrap demolition and choose deconstruction as the environmental choice. We will carefully deconstruct your house with the focus being on recycling every item where possible, we can save up to 90% of waste from landfill! Save Aotearoa's resources and our environment."

Encouraging positive environmental changes in the region

Passionate about reducing their carbon footprint on the environment, Trafalgar Painting Company Ltd have begun initiatives to try and counteract the negative collateral footprint of their industry in the region. Working in the industry for over 27 years, co-owners Joe Szentpeteri, Mark Sellars and Nathan Towns are determined to encourage positive environmental changes within the workplace.

Their trade certified team offer a diverse range of paint application services across the North & South Islands. Based in Nelson, the main activities include marine, industrial, and commercial sectors. One half of the business is dedicated to painting and maintenance services while the other half focuses on more specialised work like testing of asbestos or toxic mould. They also offer a fully licensed, compliant, and experienced team of dedicated removalists. Joe, managing director, says that as well as a strong emphasis on health and safety, another core principle of the company is that every person is entitled to live in a safe environment, free from harmful chemicals, compounds, and organisms.

Twenty-seven years of working in asbestos abatement have made the company keenly aware of the damaging substance and its impact on the environment. This has long struck a chord with the team, and they are constantly looking for innovative ways to offset this. They also offered their employees the opportunity to purchase an e-bike and helmet at half price while the company paid the rest. “Get fit and reduce carbon emissions, it’s a start!”

The company has also purchased two hybrid cars to assist in the everyday running of the business. The first step to phasing out the diesel fleet. Joe’s love of the region is clear, and he is determined in his mission to help create a better environment and a better future for generations to come. They are actively involved in sponsorship and school-based initiatives getting behind the community where they can.

“The rewarding thing about being locally owned and operated is being able to give back to the community, the same people who support Nelson business’s every day.” Trafalgar Painting Company Ltd employ a team of 35 skilled and diverse staff, with Joe’s wife Raewyn and oldest daughter Jess, all helping make it possible.

Cutting Edge Signs has been the only signmaker in the region to be a carbon positive operation for the past few years. They not only measure their carbon footprint, they actively work on a daily basis to reduce this footprint. This is part of the Cutting Edge culture. By using more and more recyclable, pvc-free materials, water-based ink and by reusing and repurposing their wastage, Cutting Edge can see a Zero Wastage future becoming a reality soon. They organise craft programmes for children using off-cuts that otherwise would have ended up in the landfill.

Through the NZ Sign Group, Cutting Edge is building a process to turn their wastage into fence posts. There is storage and cost involved in this process but that cost will not get forwarded to their clients. Moreover, they are planning on receiving wastage generated by other signwriters so that these do not reach landfill either.

They also zealously support organisations such as Brook Waimarama Sanctuary and Community Compost. Just as their founder Gus did in the 90s, they are leading the industry and hoping to encourage others to be mindful and work towards a sustainable future.

How on earth can we quell global warming when the construction industry is so dependent on carbon-polluting materials like concrete and steel? Managing Directors of Fraemohs Tasman, Andy and Kathy Jessop say the answer is - we can’t. Which is why sustainably sourced timber is so important.

“Building a home of sustainably sourced local timber is practically the most environmentally responsible approach to building that there is. Instead of building a home which emits tonnes of carbon dioxide, a Solid Timber home is carbon negative. It reduces the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere. The trees it is built with capture and store CO2 as they grow in the forest and when those trees are harvested, they are replanted with more carbon-storing trees. From an environmental perspective, choosing solid timber construction is the best thing you can practically do when building a new home.”

Solid timber homes offset carbon emissions instead of adding to the burden of global warming. When you invest in a Fraemohs solid timber home, just one of the benefits is that you are investing in a carbon-negative home.

At Rowan Dron Electrical they take pride in offering solutions to a client's energy needs across a range of products and services. Passionate about energy efficiency, owner Rowan says his team of certified electricians are also qualified solar installers, who make it their mission to keep up-to-date with cutting-edge technology and products.

ENA Solar accredited, Rowan says that in light of recent weather events, people are wanting to know more about their backup options for electricity, especially when it comes to solar. “First, we need to find out whether your site is suitable for a PV installation. We are happy to provide a no-obligation, FREE, onsite assessment at a time that suits you. We will put together a free quotation based on the correct system for your site and your power needs. Because we are electricians, we can advise on ways to maximise the savings from your system.”

Offering residential and commercial electrical work, solar installation, smart ventilation and KNX smart control, get in touch with the trusted professionals on 03 542 2328 or email admin@rdelectrical.co.nz for more information.

Local owner operators of Watersorter Ltd, Mike and Jo, understand firsthand the effects extreme weather conditions (Nelson drought) and natural disasters (Christchurch earthquakes) can have on valuable water supply to the home. Based in Nelson, Watersorter Ltd offers domestic rainwater tank supply and installation solutions, servicing the Nelson and Tasman regions at a great competitive rate. “Water is a necessity. The day you turn on the tap, and nothing comes out will be the day you’re glad you had a Rainwater Tank installed.” With obligation-free quotes, Mike says doing an initial walk-through with potential clients is the best way to ensure an easy, costeffective Rainwater Tank installation. “A walk around is best as we have experience on where and how the tank will be best sited. Installation can be quite complex so this decision can be quite daunting for many.” A Leaf Catcher and/or First Flush Diverter can improve water quality and can be installed as an optional extra at a reasonably low cost if required.” Also, take advantage of the ‘low interest, clean energy government loans’ available for this kind of investment. Contact Mike on 027 2633 969 or email mike@watersorter.co.nz to discuss your water-saving needs. www.watersorter.co.nz

Diverting rainwater from your downpipe to a storage tank is a great way to conserve water, especially for gardening or outdoor cleaning use. It can also increase your options in the event of a water supply emergency, such as an earthquake or water contamination.

Since 2007 Milestone Homes have built over 400 homes throughout Nelson & Tasman and they’re showing no sign of stopping!

Launched with the ethos of providing high quality, low maintenance homes at very affordable pricing, 15 years later this is still evident with the team committed to offering unbeatable value for money to their clients. The second key part of the Milestone Homes difference is the service and delivery of their homes with a theme of honesty and integrity at the forefront of what they do on a daily basis.

From the moment you step through the door of the showhome, everything you see and touch inside is standard and is what you can expect in your home. The ability to personalise the plan and finishes is always there, but it’s great to be able to know exactly what you get for your money. With a suite of proven plans that are fully priced, the team can provide on-the-spot pricing, so you know exactly where you stand. This is a real point of difference with Milestone Homes and ensures that clients are fully informed from the moment they start working with the team.

Carrying on the theme of being upfront and honest, Milestone offer fully-fixed price contracts to their clients. There are NO PC Sums, NO P Sums and NO cost escalation clauses when working on any sections that either have a title or s224 – their land or yours, it doesn’t matter to them.

With sections available from Wakefield to Atawhai there’s something for everyone and the team are happy to walk you through the options. If you have your eye on your own slice of paradise, then don’t hesitate to give them a call and they can help with a site visit and give you an idea of plans and pricing before you make any commitments.

If you’re looking for a house and land package, then they can help there as well with packages starting from $690,000 in Richmond. Call into the office at 2 Estuary Place (off Lower Queen St) during the week or the showhome at 84 Berryfield Drive is open 7 days between 1 & 4pm.

T20 finalists found in exciting final round-robin

JACK MALCOLM

With three teams sitting on 12 points each, it was an exciting final round of action as Wolves (Wanderers/Motueka), Stoke-Nayland and ACOB fought for the final two spots in the T20 league.

After securing a spot in the oneday final against ACOB earlier in February, the Wolves were unable to make it two-from-two as back-to-back losses forced them out of contention.

Having been unbeaten through their opening three games of the T20 league in The Car Company Premier Competition, they were hot favourites against Nelson College but put up 52 runs before being bowled out in the twelfth over to lose by six wickets.

At the Botanics, ACOB chased down the 136 set by Wakatu New World Nelson City with six wickets in hand, while a century

off 53 balls by Stoke-Nayland’s Ryan du Plessis propelled his team to victory over Waimea Toi Toi United and into the T20 final against ACOB next weekend.

Nelson College, WTTU, and Wakatu were all fighting for pride to end their season, sitting outside of contention in the T20 and with ACOB and Wolves already in the one-day final.

At Jubilee Park, Ryan’s heroic knock saw his team threaten to break an average of two runs a ball before a late resurgence by WTTU reeled them back to 188/4 from the first innings. He hit 11 fours and three sixes on the way to his 100 before being caught and bowled by Bradley Norris, while captain Sam Baxendine was the only other bowler to pick up wickets. The innings put Stoke-Nayland in clear control of the game, with WTTU never able to really recover.

A handy 35 by opener Parminder Kulaar got them off to a positive start, with Stoke-Nayland also helping with some wild bowling early in the innings. Needing to average almost 9.5 runs an over, WTTU’s batting was just too slow as only two batsmen had a strike rate of over 100. They finished their 20 overs on 128/7, with Sam saying it was a positive end to a tough season.

“It’s been a bit disappointing, a few things just haven’t gelled. Comparative to our other games against Stoke, we showed a bit more fight.

“They were on track for 220, and we dragged them back.”

When someone scores a century in T20 cricket, he says you have to have things go your way to come out on top and they weren’t so lucky on Saturday.

“You can’t really put a field out past the boundary with (Ryan) batting like that.”

Week-long adventure race tests the bodies’ limits

JACK MALCOLM

When the ‘Heavy Packs, All Just Snacks’ team set off from the start line of GODZONE, their goal was just to reach the finish line. But as the only all-women team in the race, they were surprised to see their team name slowly climb up the leaderboard as they trudged along the 558km course.

“We were in the top 11-to-12 in the first half, and we were like ‘imagine if we got top 10’,” says team leader Kirsten McCashin. After six days and 23 hours on the course, they crossed the line in fourth place in the Pursuit category. With multiple teams pulling out along the race route every year, Kirsten says their mantra was just to continue putting one foot in front of the other.

“You go at the fastest pace you can, which is usually a plod or walk.”

Having been on the sidelines of previous GODZONE races, she says her expectations were almost higher than the reality.

Dealing with the battered and bruised bodies as an on-course medic last year, and having also been part of the support crew for her partner, had given her a daunting picture of what the four friends were taking on.

“(I went) from being behind the scenes and seeing the teams that

are suffering the most to signing up (to race).”

Kirsten says the seed of adventure racing was planted while in school at Garin College, having done several 12 and 24-hour races while a student.

“I always looked at GodZone as one I wanted to do.”

Despite being named the team leader, she says just as much credit goes to her teammate Tina Grove, who also acted as her co-navigator. Having known they wanted to do the race together, the pair set out to build a team and even pulled in a flatmate to do it with them. With teams having to find their own way between transition points, navigation skills are crucial to how successful a team will be.

Kirsten says they originally had the team name ‘Currently Lost’, but they had “decided it wasn’t fun anymore” after getting lost in the middle of a race.

The Heavy Packs, All Just Snacks name was a fitting name, with Kirsten saying they regularly overestimated the course and would turn up in transition with leftover supplies.

Kirsten says that while her body isn’t as sore as she expected after the race, a week after finishing, she still hadn’t bounced all the way back to 100 per cent and still struggled to put on tight shoes.

“I was very surprised. I thought my body would give up at multiple stages. Before the race, you’d think, ‘surely, once I’ve completed this, there’s no way I can get on the bike and do that’”.

On the topic of doing the race again, she says it’s a “solid maybe”. “I enjoyed it, to be honest. I would come back, but now I feel like we’ve done the pursuit, we’d have to do the pure and that makes me

more nervous.”

Kirsten

thanks the support crew who tagged along, with partner Tom Spencer and parents Todd and Michelle McCashin deserving a mention.

Wolves (Wanderers/Motueka) dropped the ball in their last two games of regular season cricket. Photo: Evan Barnes/Shuttersport.

The ‘Heavy Packs, All Just Snacks’ team of (L-R) Rachel Fulton, Tanja De Wilde, Tina Grove and Kirsten McCashin were the only all-female GODZONE team to race this year, surprising their expectations with a fourth placed finish in the pursuit category. Photo: Emanuel Gunton.

Thousands descend on Tāhunanui for TRYathlon

SARA HOLLYMAN

Thousands of people flooded Tāhunanui Reserve on Sunday for the annual Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon. Organisers say 1500 children registered for the event, which saw them swim, bike and run their way around the beach and reserve. The day kicked off with a collective

warm-up shortly after 7.30am.

Age-groups then headed to the beach for the swimming leg of their race, running, diving and jumping through the fresh morning sea.

After completing the bike stage, it was a fast-paced run to cross the finish line where every kid received a medal.

Ten-year-old Nathan Davis was

in the first group to race and says he felt relief when he crossed the finish line.

Nathan has had a tough few years after being diagnosed with epilepsy in 2019.

His mum Stacey says it hasn’t stopped him and he will give everything a go.

“He always reminds us, you’ve got to keep moving forward.

“He’s so positive.”

Stacey says it was a scary time finding Nathan unconscious on the floor at home in 2018 at the beginning of their journey with epilepsy, a far cry from the young man who made her train with him in the lead-up to the TRYathlon.

“The first couple of weeks after my first seizure I wasn’t allowed

to go swimming, climb trees or do any kind of oudoor activity, I didn’t like that.” But now Nathan is proud of his effort at the TRYathlon. He sprinted across the finish line with many of his whānau watching, including his nana, aunties and uncles and his mum, who she says was the loudest supporter of them all.

All photos. Evan Barnes www.shuttersport.co.nz

Age-grade rugby overhaul aims to strengthen club connection

JACK MALCOLM

Age-grade rugby in the Tasman region will undergo a minor overhaul this year as clubs look at new ways to strengthen their sustainability.

Instead of players joining a high school team, the trial will see the U14 grade run through the local clubs instead.

Tasman Rugby chief executive

Lyndon Bray says the change looks to address a substantial drop-off in players they see in the school space.

“One of our key community strategy principles is club sustainability. Thirteen, 14 and 15 (years-old) is the biggest risk area ... 70 per cent (of players) in the region are lost. We can’t afford, as a sport, to have that drop-off.”

He says, while some people naturally stop playing rugby as other commitments come up, they are looking to decrease that number to about half in five years.

“This is not about blaming the schools.

“It is directly to solve our specific

challenges.

“That 20 per cent is a significant number. It’s at least 30 players across the Nelson community.”

He says the schools have been supportive of the change, dismissing the idea that changes might affect their ongoing pro-

KAKA SHIELD

1st April 23

grammes and first XV.

“What we’re doing at U14 will never impact what they do.” With some schools, like Nelson

College, having an ‘elite rugby programme and rugby class’, others find it challenging to run such a big programme within the school, he says.

“How do you take that to the next stage for U15, U16 and U17s? How does that look like? There’s a fine balance there.

“It’s the best of both worlds.”

Lyndon says the changes are part of a broader strategy from Tasman Rugby on how they can best deliver the game to the community.

“We’re looking at things like when do we play our rugby. Could we play women’s and juniors on Friday? Could we create more evening or night rugby?All ideas are on the table. There’s some exciting opportunities, but it’s going to take a bit of good planning and some facility upgrades.”

Lyndon says it’s an exciting prospect to see how successful the changes will be, especially with the women’s game.

“It’s more entrenched with the boys … we have an opportunity to do it differently with the girls.”

FREE | Bus from Richmond 9am.

Events open to all | 10am to 5.30pm at Tapawera

Rugby Club

Silent auction will be running during the afternoon

The Wanderers U13 team from last season will stay together in the blue and gold for at least one more season after changes were made to keep them at their clubs. Photo: Supplied.

THE PTS STAMPEDE HITS TOWn

Milestone Homes Top of the South Speedway’s biggest show is coming to town. The PTS Stampede will hit the track this Friday and Saturday night with Super Stocks, Stock Cars and Ministocks all featuring over the weekend.

The Super Stocks will be grouped as they build points to qualify for the feature race, where first past the post wins it all. Last year Brett Nicholls won an epic final race after a huge battle with Harley Robb. A tearful Nicholls was ecstatic with the win and will be hoping to repeat the feat this year. He has good form after qualifying for the NZ title a couple of weeks ago. The line-up is still being confirmed from the visiting drivers, ferry crossings being a major hurdle at the moment. The local driver numbers have built up

nicely over the season. The club is looking at hosting the New Zealand title in a couple of years. Shane Harwood has been piloting the new Ben Smith car over the past few meetings; it has proved to be a very quick machine, while Alex Hill fresh from winning the South Island title has had a busy month of racing around the country. The Stocks Cars are running a pairs format; they will be grouped with their partner over a series of races to earn

points. The top six pairs go through to a teams format where they race off as pairs to advance through to winning the final race, 6 v 5 then they will face team 4 etc, until we have a winning team. The races will be held over 3 laps - a new format to Stock Cars, so new strategies will need to be worked through. It promises to be an exciting conclusion to an epic two days of racing. The South Island title was an epic meeting a fortnight ago and paybacks

•

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Pleased

support Top of the South Speedway

could be on the cards as driver and vehicle will need to be in top form to come away with the best pairs victory. The Youth Ministocks Mania is the third major competition running over the weekend. Around 40 odd cars from around the country are attending, with some of the fastest cars from the North Island coming down. The cars will race in groups over the weekend to find an overall points winner plus the top six South Island and North Island cars on points will also compete in a North V South battle to end their weekend. The Classic Stocks are having their big get-together - four teams will race for combined points over the weekend. The format has handicapping for the various ages of the cars (and drivers) entered. The competitive edge still lingers in many, but it’s mostly about getting time on the track and having a few yarns over a Fanta or two after. The range of cars is a testament to the development of the cars of yesteryear through to the PTS stampede Super Stocks of today. The meeting is the biggest club show on the calendar and will kick off from 6pm Friday night and the earlier time of 5.30pm Saturday night. Tickets can be prepurchased online, via the Nelson Speedway website or at the kiosk in Richmond Mall, there are also gate sales on the night. There is a livestreaming service available via “The Pits Tv” website for those that can’t attend. The pits will be open to meet the drivers before and after the meeting - for safety reasons covered footwear is required in the pit area. Some drivers do have merchandise for sale and posters to give away. There is a lucky program and MTF goodie bag to win over both nights, while the souvenir shop is also open throughout the night. It promises to be a huge night of non-stop action in a busy month of speedway in Nelson.

over 45 years MTF Finance has been making it easier for New Zealanders to get the things they need.

Top flight local women’s football’s return

JACK MALCOLM

Nelson Suburbs will post a women’s team in the South Island Women’s Qualifying League for the first time this season.

Captained by Anna McPhie and coached by Neil Harding, the team will be up against the best teams from around the South Island as they fight for a spot in the national league championships. With a pre-season 4-1 loss to Cashmere Technical in their opening game, the team has an exciting combination of young potential and seasoned competitors. With the national championships expanding this year to incorporate the two top teams from the Southern league, the team will have to be on top form against the strong Christchurch and Dunedin sides.

Neil says it’s been an exciting build-up to their opening game, with the team coming together for their first training about a month ago. While he’s “always been involved in coaching”, this team will be the first time he takes the helm of a women’s team. “The difference I find is the girls are way more organised. They’re punctual, listen more, are always asking questions and want to improve. It’s a really good group of girls.”

The team is still looking for a major sponsor, with the women having to provide their own trans-

port to and from games, at least at the start.

Neil says they hope that the growth of women’s football, especially with the upcoming World Cup, will see pay parity implemented in the future. If they perform well this season by finishing in the top four, they will also be eligible for more funding.

Suburbs director of football Ryan

Stewart says it’s an exciting time, with Nelson women missing out on the opportunity of the top

leagues’ competition since Tasman United dissolved.

“It was a shame, that was a pathway for young female talent.

Having coached the women’s Tasman United team, Ryan says they regularly saw the top girls in the region start to leave for more opportunities in big centres.

“Girls can join the club as a teenager, get selected for the U17 and into this team. There’s a pathway for girls to move all the way up to the top ranks.”

Anna McPhie has returned from playing college football in America and will captain the Suburbs women’s team as they make their debut in the South Island Women’s Qualifying League.

Anna says Tasman United’s inclusion in the top-level competition was crucial to her development and obtaining a scholarship to play in America.

“It was very important to have that video (of you playing) and to push it further. It’s what the region needed for younger women and even the older ones who have hung around.”

Anna will also be involved in the coaching of the youth development players and says she’s excit-

ed to take on more of a leadership role.

She returned to Nelson this year, saying it was a coincidence that the team was being formed at the same time.

“I wasn’t meant to be here this year, but I decided I’d come home and save some money. I messaged Skippy and he said they were making this team. We have a good team to push and do well. I’m excited about the development for Nelson.”

Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Community at the heart of new Sport Tasman CEO

JACK MALCOLM

Ed Shuttleworth says he has spent his first weeks as the new head of Sport Tasman listening to the community.

After taking on the job earlier this year, he has met as many people as he can to hear about how they can work together to serve the community best.

“The number of volunteers in the Top of the South is phenomenal, and I’m also the benefactor of these people.

“I’ve also looked at the data and what we know about physical activity. .. I want to scratch a bit deeper.”

He says their core mission is to pull down the barriers to sport and recreation for people, with seven key groups identified.

“They are Maori, Pasifika, women and girls, the disability community, remote communities, migrant communities and the lower socioeconomic areas.

“The reality is there’s not even access or involvement levels, and who’s not having the opportunity to engage.”

He says his door is always open for any community group or organisation that wants to talk about ways they can better serve the community together. While the region has some of the

highest participation rates in the country, Ed says they’re in the exploratory stage of continuing to widen the net of what they offer.

“We have this sensational worldclass environment. . . what would it take for everyone to have the chance to use these facilities?

“The key for us is not to assume. To hear what the barriers are for them. At this initial stage, it’s about understanding.”

Ed moved to Nelson with his partner after looking at Google images of the region and deciding it looked like a nice place to live and grow a family. Having never been to the region

before, they packed up their bags and moved from Kuwait in 2011, never looking back.

After a stint as the general manager of Nelson cricket, a job where he says he “never had to work harder”, he travelled the world, but always called his little slice of paradise at the Top of the South home. For Ed, the job opportunity at Sport Tasman was a perfect fit. Having spent the last seven years

overseeing the International Cricket Council’s five continental offices to help grow the game globally, he was looking for something more grassroots.

“The reality is, where I’m at the happiest, and I’m proudest, is community impact.

“I was desperate to engage and support the community, and that’s how I find myself today. “This is my dream job.”

Sport Tasman’s new CEO Ed Shuttleworth moved to Nelson after seeing pictures of the region and has never looked back, putting down roots and starting a young family. Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Community Notices

MONDAY

Elysium Widow and Widowers Group meet each Monday for coffee and friendship at Oxford St Cafe at 10am. New members welcome. Phone Margaret 027 2600 748

Lighthouse Spiritual Awareness Centre. Mondays 7.30pm, Trafalgar St Hall. Expo Monday 27th March 7.15pm, Entry $5. Experience healings, readings etc. Ph Carolyn 5474613.

Nelson-Waimea PowerTalk. Mon 20th March. 9.30-11am. Sport Tasman/ Richmond Town Hall, Cambridge St. Debating –come and watch or participate! Contact: Sandra 027 766 0347

TUESDAY

NELSON 50+ WALKING GROUP Tuesday March 21st. Tantragee

Tour. Meet at 9.45am at OK Corral. Phone Ann 021 393361

WELLBY Talking Café: 10am -11.30am, Tuesday 21st March 2023, McCashin’s Stoke. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities and services. www.wellby.org.nz 03 5467681.

Waimea Music Club meets at Methodist Church Hall Neale Ave

Stoke Sunday 19 March at 1 15 pm Ph Jim 5449446 Pat 5445766

NZ Christian Writers Nelson Group. Tuesday 21 March in Richmond Baptist Church Lounge. 1-4pm. 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 contact Kay 0275476777 or kaypeterson4@xtra.co.nz.

Hope Indoor Bowling Club playing Tuesday Nights 7pm at Hope Hall Main Rd Hope.Starts 7 pm. Everyone welcome. Soft soled shoes.. All bowls supplied. Great for families. Info Bill ph 5449273 STOKE INDOOR BOWLS CLUB 2023 season has started, Warnes Stadium, Songer Street, Stoke. New members welcome. Please wear flat soled shoes. Enquiries ph Lynn 547 7112. NELSON CIVIC CHOIR rehearses 6.45-9.00pm Tuesdays at NCMA, Nile Street, Nelson. Preparing to perform Mozart’s Coronation Mass in May. No auditions. Call 021 102 4436.

Linedancing Beginners. Warnes Hall Songer St Stoke by vet clinic. TUESDAYS 8 .45. Free morning tea. Soft shoes. Just arrive or ph: 0274 491 569 Diane. We are a caring Community.

WEDNESDAY

Cake Decorators meet every third Wednesday of the Month. The next meeting is Wednesday 15 March. Creating the Japanese Cherry Blossom in flower paste. Contact Desiree 0276302359

Central garden club meets 2nd wednesday of each month

1.30pm at stoke methodist church hall, Neale Ave Stoke. Guest speakers and afternoon tea new members most welcome contact Lynn or bob 5418468

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

WELLBY Talking Café: 1.30pm -3pm, Wednesday 22nd March 2023, Halifax Café, Nelson. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities and services. www.wellby.org.nz 03 5467681.

Nelson Newbies, coffee morning every Wednesday 10:3011.30 a.m. at Deville’s Cafe, 22 New St. Want to get out and meet people? Join us for coffee and chat. New people are always welcome. Ph: Clive 021 205 4731.

THURSDAY

Nelson City Probus Club welcome both men & women. We meet 2nd Thursday each month (Feb-November) at 10 am, The Nelson Golf Club, 38 Bolt Rd, Tahunanui. Contact the Secretary on nelsoncitygroupgmail.com

Endometriosis Group invite you to a gentle Yoga class with Loren, Thurs. 30 March 7-8pm 16 Venice Place Stoke (note new venue) Gold Coin Donation Info Ph Helen 5441724 or nelsonsup-

DEADLINE: MIDDAY FRIDAY - 30 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLYPLEASE

SEND TO: events@waimeaweekly.co.nz

port@nzendo.org.nz

Waimea Combined Friendship Group meet monthly at 9.45am on 3rd Thursday of month in Hope Church, Ranzau Road for Friendship, Fellowship & Learning. Contact Denise on 027 765 000 or Rosalie on 027 249 1080.

TAICHI in Richmond: Thursdays 10am-12.00. Stillness, breath, movement. Quiet Heart Tai Chi, Holy Trinity Church, Dorset Street. Donation. Contact Merrick. Email; quiet.heart.tai.chi@gmail.com

Ph 0210636620. All welcome

RICHMOND WELCOME GROUP: Want to make new friends join a friendly group for coffee & a chat.10am on the 1st & 3rd Thursday of each month at Paragon Cafe Langdale Drive Richmond Ansley /Phillip 5410 350 0272212943.

FRIDAY

NEW Richmond Mobility Scooter Club. Do you have a mobility scoooter or thinking of buying one? A new mobility scoooter club in Richmond is looking for members. We want to encourage friendship, education, & advocacy amoungst our Richmond mobility scoooter comunity. First meeting Friday 27 Jan. 10am at the Richmond Library. Mike Rodwell 027 486 9955. Songbirds Ladies Choir New female singers welcome. Rehearsals Friday morning in Stoke. If you enjoy singing and can hold a tune, please give me a call. Ph Mary 5448232 or 0211334805

SATURDAY

Higgins Heritage Park 222 Pigeon Valley Rd, Wakefield - Saturday & Sunday 18 & 19 March, Vintage Engine & Machinery Club show and activities days 10am-4pm $10 adult, children free www.higginsheritagepark.co.nz

Nelson Miniatures Club meet monthly Sat. 18 March 10am-3pm Tahunanui Community Hub. Come along & join this friendly group. Monthly workshops. All equipment provided. $5 for non members

Quality Crafts Nelson at Richmond Baptist Church 123 Salibury Rd, Saturday 18 March 8am – noon. 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! Contact Kay 0275476777 for further details.

CAR BOOT MARKET Richmond Baptist Church, 123 Salisbury Road Saturday 18th March 8am-Noon stall holders from 6.30am. Heaps of bargains, yummy food and free coffee. Facebook –“RBC

Bootmarket” Contact: Willie 021305494

Cake Decorators first workshop is Saturday 25 March. We are learning how to cover a cake with ganache, fondant and edible lace. Suitable for all levels of skill. Contact Desiree 0276302359

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

SUNDAY

Sunday Meditation – every Sunday 10am – 11.30am, plus free vegetarian lunch. All warmly welcome, for all ages and walks of life. Chandrakirti Meditation Centre. 289 Sunrise Valley Rd, Upper Moutere. 03 5432021

NELSON SPIRITUALIST CHURCH weekly service Sun. 7pm-8pm. CornerTipahi&MotuekaSts.

GENERAL GROUPS

Waimea MENZSHED - catering for the interests, health and well-being of men since 2010. The shed is open Monday - Friday at Richmond Park, 384 Lower Queen St. Inquiries: mens.shed. waimea@gmail.com 027 282 0185.

Senior Mobility Classes Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays from 10.30am at the Wanderers Community Gym 12 Charlotte Lane, Brightwater. $2 donation. Improving balance, mobility & independence among our aging populations (55+).Contact James Cooper for info: 021 044 1526. Seeking volunteers to help support Nelson Hospital. For info visit www.nmdhb.govt.nz and search ‘volunteering with us’. A social opportunity for people to donate their time to a 3-4

hour shift during the week in a variety of roles. Supporting our patients, visitors, whānau & staff while receiving sense of purpose. Cake Decorators invite new members to join. You don’t need any skills. Come & learn how to work with fondant, sugar paste & chocolate. Creating flowers, figurines & covering a cake. Desiree 027 630 2359.

HELP NEEDED. WAKEFIELD COMMUNITY BUS NelsonTasman Community Transport Trust dedicated to providing affordable community public transport in the areas where little is available.

Contact: 020 4196 0553 Wakefield Bus is in need of some support – can you help? Contact - 020 4196 0553, marketing.ntctt@ gmail.com / www.ntctt.org TO BOOK A SEAT on the Wakefield bus- call or txt 020 4195 8866.

NEED A BIKE? Bike Hub Nelson fixes up donated bikes & gives them away for a small koha. Mondays 5.30-7pm. Location & other opening times on www.facebook.com/BikeHubNelson, email BikeHubNelson@gmail.com

NELSON WOODTURNING CLUB. Join us at our clubrooms for Turning, camaraderie & sharing of knowledge. Ph or txt Allan for more information 021543345.

ALCOHOLICSANONYMOUS-Isalcoholcausingproblemsforyouinyour life?Want to stop drinking but can’t? Maybe we can help. Support meetingseveryday.Call0800aaworks08002296757.

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

ASTHMA? COPD? Nelson Asthma Society offers Pulmonary Rehab Courses can help you improve your respiratory self-management skills & shortness of breath. Phone your medical centre for a “Pulmonary Rehab course referral”or contact asthma.nelson@xtra.co.nz

CANCER SOCIETY SUPPORT GROUPS for info on all groups call 539 1137 or email info@cancernelson.org.nz

AGED CONCERN EVENTS & CLASSES at 62 Oxford St. Conact Miriam on 5447624 ext 6 or support@ageconcernnt.org.nz for a schedule of up and coming events.

Community Notices are free to community groups, schools, churches, gold coin donation events and fundraising. Due to the popularity of this column,while every effort will be made, inclusion cannot be guaranteed for free ads. If you want to place a business advert or want to advertise a course you are running, please call classified ads and public notices on 544 9037.

SITUATIONS VACANT

YOUR MAHI

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.

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

MARSHALL

Donald

Donald passed away 12 March 2023 at Nelson Tasman Hospice aged 83 years.

Dearly loved brother of the late Grant and Judy; the late John and Anne; and Colleen and John Gahagan.  Treasured uncle of Murray and Robyn Marshall.  Messages to: 55 Hunter Avenue, Richmond 7020

FOR SALE

GARAGE SALE

sdfunerals.nz

MEMORIAL

RICKETTS

Brett Andrew

15.6.1952 - 17.3.2021

May the winds of heaven blow softly and whisper in your ear how much we love and miss you, and wish you were here. Dearly loved Husband of Helen, loved Father and Father in law of Andrew, Natasha & Craig, Nathan & Isley, Alex & Sophie. Loved Grandad of Daniel, Ryan, Cameron, Declan, Chad, Joseph & Chloe.

HARPER

Dorothy Annie (Dot)

A sincere thank you from Jan for all the kindness, love & support shown to me in the loss of dear Mum.

I am grateful for the many flowers, cards, messages & food.

Thank you also to all those who provided Mum with the very best of care and friendship over the years.

Lifestyle Farm Sale from 9am March 18th at Edens Rd Hope. All sorts from old rusty to new electric fence ‘Stuff”. Sign out at 9am.

Captain Cook 1/3 scale cannon HMS Endeavour with 1 round ball mould. $5k. Ph 027 423 5776.

Richmond Waimea RSA (Inc) Annual General Meeting