Keeping our community connected with public opinion, human interest stories and sport. Delivered to 10,360 homes and rural mailboxes every Wednesday. Bringing the community together since 1992.
A recent flurry of structure fires around Motueka has raised locals’ eyebrows, but emergency services spokespeople say that there is no wider cause for concern.
The 12 structure fires have included house fires on King Edward, Trewavas and Wilkinson Sts, an uninhabited tiny home in Ngatimoti and last week’s accommodation fire at the Riwaka Hotel. These blazes have all taken place in the last three months, and some Motueka residents have started to question whether the town has a firebug at work.
However, Motueka Volunteer Fire Brigade chief fire officer Mike Riddell says that the fire numbers are actually tracking the same as previous years, and that he is confident there is no pattern of foul play.
It was the anomaly that Motueka had no structure fires in the first six months of the year, “which is probably what has raised people’s eyebrows,” he says.
Of the 12 fires, he says that one was related to a fireplace, one a wall-mounted heater, another
was caused by a washing machine fault, two are related to lithium-ion batteries, one is labelled “no equipment involved”, which indicates a cause such as a wiring issue, and five are “undetermined”.
“There can be lots of factors as to why we can’t determine the cause of the fire, including the extent of the damage to the property, as well as everything that takes place when we’re trying to put the fire out, such as putting water on the fire or having to move things around,” says the fire chief, who has been with the brigade for 43 years. However, he is sure that there are no commonalities between the fires.
“We’re not in a situation where there’s [a serial] arsonist,” he says.
“At the end of the day, we are well
help out other stations, and 23 percent are motor vehicle accidents and medical calls. The remaining quarter are false alarm activations to commercial and residential premises.
trained in what signs to look for if it’s done deliberately.
These sentiments were echoed by Motueka police senior sergeant Martin Tunley, who says that although arson was the suspected cause of several of the fires, they are not interconnected.
“They’ll all individual incidents. We’re investigating the ones in King Edward and Wilkinson streets, but they are unlikely to be linked.”
Mike says that the Motueka station receives between 230 and 250 calls each year, and right now, the station is sitting on about the 200-mark, putting it within the same range as usual.
Of this year’s callouts, 17 percent – or 33 incidents - have been fires, 10 percent are classified as miscellaneous, such as animal rescues and hazardous chemical spills, 25 percent have been to
Each year, between 10-20 annual callouts are structure fires, which includes houses, sheds and commercial or industrial buildings. This label applies whether there is slight damage or total destruction of the building.
The Fire and Emergency New Zealand website (www.fireandemergency.nz) has information on many facets of fire safety, including tabs on lithium-ion batteries and smoke alarms.
Mike encourages people to reach out for a visit from their local fire and emergency station to receive a free fire safety check and, if needed, free smoke alarms. He says a home visit takes about 30 to 45 minutes, which is a fraction of the time it takes to attend a house fire.
“You’re not wasting our time,” he summarises. “We’re here to make a difference in the community and keep the community safe.” He says that people can also request a home visit online, via www.fireandemergency.nz/ home-fire-safety/home-fire-safe ty-visits/
A structure fire in the Motueka Valley, is one of 12 in the area in recent weeks. Photo: Supplied.
Road safety concerns lead to petition
ANNE HARDIE
Concerns about road safety have prompted the Moutere Hills Residents’ Association to start a petition to drop speed limits on the Moutere Highway and through the village.
Chairman Nathan Silcock says the petition is aimed at reducing the 100 kmph speed limit on the highway to 80 kmph between the Lower Moutere School and Redwood Valley Rd.
It also proposes a reduced speed limit through the Upper Moutere village to 40 kmph and a pedestrian crossing near the Upper Moutere School, though he says the crossing has been included in the petition for discussion.
He says the lowering the speed limit has been mooted in the past, then it was raised at the AGM and that led to the petition.
“There was a lot of concern expressed. The community was mainly worried about speed, but also general safety, both in and around the village and further afield. There was particular concern around the school and at school times – traffic is just moving too fast and the risks are too high.”
In the village, Nathan says the
footpath in front of the few stores is quite narrow for pedestrians when cars are passing at 50 kmh and he is “pretty confident” many drivers are driving faster than the limit.
Along the highway, especially between the village and
Rings For All Occasions
the Lower Moutere School, he says it is not safe to drive at 100 kmh.
“People think they can do 100, but they really can’t.”
Between the village and Redwood Valley Rd, he says most
drivers slow down already to navigate bends over the hill, and those who do not should, especially when it is frosty in winter.
Nathan says it’s hard to know exactly how the group will use the petition, but it will raise aware-
ness and ultimately it will be a great way for the community to show support for change. The petition can be found at www.change.org where it is called Moutere road safety improvements.
Nathan Silcock is seeking signatures on a petition for lower speeds along the Moutere Highway. Photo: Anne Hardie.
Demystifying the fragmented health system
ELISE VOLLWEILER
If you know your way around our local library, you probably value literacy – but just how good is your health literacy?
A mini health and well-being expo will help to build on your knowledge, as well as providing some immediate value with the offer of certain health checks. The free drop-in event has been organised as part of Wellness Month and is hosted by Te Noninga Kumu-Motueka Library.
The expo is to be held next Wednesday afternoon and is organised by Nelson Bays Primary Health’s Tonia Talbot and Renee Hamilton, as well as Motueka branch librarian Janine Gillions. Anyone and everyone is welcome to drop in and get some free advice and basic health checks, says Tonia, who works as a health promotion manager.
“We’re trying to make it as simple as possible. It doesn’t matter what doctor you go to,” she says – or, in fact, whether you are enrolled with a doctor at all.
Health improvement practitioner Renee says the health system can be a minefield and its myriad services and criteria complicated, “so getting familiar with how to access information and services
is key”.
“Unless you know the pathways, it’s quite tricky.” However, the organisers are eager to help the community in demystifying the health system.
They hope that the expo helps to remove barriers, allowing people to chat directly with the professionals who can give immediate advice about diet and nutrition, diabetes, cervical screening, skin cancer, Alzheimer’s, respiratory
support and smoking cessation.
“It’s about giving people evidence-based and good quality information,” Tonia explains. She says that there are a lot of free services out there, but people may not even know they exist.
One such service is Green Prescription, an individualised programme which encourages healthy eating and increased physical activity. People will also be able to receive
free blood pressure checks, as well as advice on what their results mean and what to do next.
Nurses will even be able to provide childhood immunisations on the day, with the ability to check children’s vaccination status.
In her role as health improvement practitioner, Renee says that they can give advice on services – such as hers – that can be accessed via self-referral, rather than only via
the doctor.
Motueka librarian Janine is thrilled that after weeks of planning, the expo is coming to fruition, as she is passionate about well-being in all forms.
She acknowledges the many health professionals who have put their hands up to be part of the upcoming event, saying that she is full of admiration for those who spend their lives caring for the community.
The library is offering a whole month of well-being activities alongside the expo for body and mind.
These include mandala rock painting (Wednesday 16 October from 5pm-6.30pm), a qigong workshop (Monday, 21 October from 1pm-2pm), a bargello bookmark stitching session (Tuesday, 22 October from 2pm-3.30pm), a brain health seminar (Thursday, 24 October from 1pm-2pm), and creating a wellness journal (Friday, 25 October from 1.30pm3pm).
The mini health and wellness expo is being held in the community room at Te Noninga KumuMotueka Library on Wednesday 23 October, from 1pm-4pm. Light refreshments will be provided.
Motueka librarian Janine Gillions, health promotion manager Tonia Talbot and health improvement practitioner Renee Hamilton are joining forces get a host of healthcare professionals in one place for next week’s mini health and well-being expo. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
Runners signing up for The Spectacle
ANNE HARDIE
Nelson’s inaugural running event, The Spectacle, is on track to have the best international field of athletes for its Elite Mile race that New Zealand has ever seen and one of its founders says it will live up to the name of the event.
The Spectacle takes place 13-15 December, with at least 2,000 competitors and “maybe close to 3,000” who will take part in a range of races, from school relays on the streets of Nelson through to the 100 Mile which climbs hundreds of metres through the hills behind the city.
Michael Cochrane says the Elite Mile on the streets of Nelson already has entries from several top athletes from around the globe who have run sub-four-minute miles, including New Zealand’s Sam Tanner who was the youngest Kiwi ever to achieve the feat.
“That mile race is a real spectacle – that’s why we wanted to name the event The Spectacle. When someone is running a sub-four-minute mile, it’s really something to behold when you are a spectator on the street.”
Numerous schools have registered for the mile relays and businesses are entering teams so that real estate companies will battle it out and teams of lawyers will be pitted against each other.
Michael says the trail events which are on “quite gnarly” terrain in places like Dun Mountain, are attracting good entries, with about 50 runners entered in the 100 Mile so far. That takes runners up to the Te Araroa
Trail and over Dun Mountain and Little Twin, before many kilometres later finishing in the heart of the city. If that’s too much, there’s the 100 km race, or 10 km. It was running those trails that ignited the idea of a running festival in Nelson and as a trail runner with ultramarathons under his belt, Michael has run a few trails in the area.
“The trails we have here are exceptional; they’re world class. So, why don’t we have a world-class event here?”
Olympian middle-distance runner and fellow Nelsonian, Julian Matthews, said
‘why not add a mile event as well?’ They teamed up with world cross-country runner, Annika Pfitzinger, also from Nelson and got local adventure-racing champion, Nathan Fa’avae on board to manage the event. Michael would like to see it become an annual event that grows over time, bringing thousands of people into the centre of Nelson.
As chief executive of Matthews Eyecare, he says he knows how hard it is for retailers in the city and events such as The Spectacle are needed. As well as the 2,000 or more competitors, the event is expect-
ed to attract about 5,000 spectators for the street events and finish lines.
This year he headed to the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc in the French Alps, an ultramarathon race that was first held in 2003 and now regarded as the most competitive trail ultramarathon in the world. It attracted 25,000 competitors this year and Simon says it started out as a little club run.
“Now it’s the biggest event in the sport. Our hope for The Spectacle is more and more people will want to come and run these trails.”
More than 2,000 competitors will be taking part in a range of races in December. Photo: Supplied.
Patches and tears no problem for repair café recruit
ELISE VOLLWEILER
Christine Knowles knows just how special it is to have someone pick up a needle and thread on her behalf. Growing up, her three older sisters used to fight over the privilege of knitting their young sibling her next jersey. Now, the Motueka local is the one wielding the tools, as a recent recruit to the Motueka repair café’s volunteer base. As a life-long knitter, sewer and darner, Chris-
tine will try her hand with almost any fabric. She is happy to sew patches, darn threadbare cloth and take on general repairs. She even does repairs on plush toys and dolls.
She explains that some people want mending that is as invisible as possible, while others are happy to have to repairs that tell the story of the garment’s life.
“A lot of it is about listening to what the customer wants,” she says.
Like all repair café volunteers, Christine values the conservation aspect of repairing items, as well as the happiness brought to customers by restoring their treasured items.
upholds the repair café principle of teaching customers to do their own repairs. She mended one appreciative young man’s Swanndri bush shirt by darning the holes and worn areas with some matching wool. He watched Christine and discussed the process with her, and she gave him some matching wool to take home so he could do any subsequent mending himself.
Older customers often know how to do such repair work, but for a range of reasons they are no longer able to undertake these tasks themselves.
One elderly customer at a recent cafe commented, “Thank you, this is marvellous, these are small jobs I can’t do any more.”
When the damaged item holds a lot of emotional significance to the customer, their obvious delight at a fix warms everyone’s hearts.
Motueka Repair Cafe is on at 10am-1pm on the third Saturday of each month (FebruaryNovember), at Te Noninga
Kumu-Motueka Library. Free refreshments are provided. The next café is to be held this Saturday, 19 October.
call us for your print solutions 03 543 9480 sales@printhouse.co.nz 16 Tokomaru Place, Wakatu Estate, Nelson www.printhouse.co.nz
She sources her wool and thread from thrift stores and donations from individuals, which fits perfectly with the repair café ethos of a sustainable, circular economy.
Christine also
We’re upgrading and expanding the Emergency Department (ED) at Nelson Hospital.
Work will begin this month and is expected to be completed early 2026.
During this period, there will be no vehicle access to ED from Waimea Road. Instead, vehicles will be able to access ED via Franklyn Street.
Pedestrian and bus access will not be affected.
The main entrance to ED will be temporarily relocated 10 metres towards the Medical and Injury Centre (orange building). Please follow the wayfinding signage.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Vivid in her memory is the recent repair of a woollen vest that a widower’s wife had knitted for him many years ago.
“It was so amazing to be a part of that,” she says.
Some of Christine’s other repair café mending jobs have included a moth-eaten suit jacket and the woven tops of a pair of women’s shoes.
She appreciates that many people in the community can’t afford to get professional fixes done, especially when it is often cheaper to buy a replacement.
Life-long sewer and knitter Christine Knowles is happy to be doing some craft-based volunteer work at Motueka’s monthly repair cafes. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
NEW LISTING
Architectural elegance, rural tranquility
Discover
NEW LISTING
Donation to boost local anglers
JACOB LUCAS
Nelson Marlborough Fish & Game
A substantial donation to Fish & Game is set to boost the skills of new and experienced anglers.
Legendary angler Jim Ring and his wife Fleur (both now deceased) have left a substantial donation which they wish to be used to get new anglers into fishing and help develop the skills of the anglers we have. This will be a real game-changer to grow our angler base in this region.
Jim was arguably one of the most successful anglers this region has seen, and the meticulousndiaries he kept are the stuff of legends. They were also
a perfect angling match, with Jim aiming for perfection in the art of fly fishing, and Fleur a qualified entomologist.
The new trout fishing season kicked off on 1 October and opening day saw anglers out in force on rivers across the region.
Although the start of the season fell on a weekday, Fish & Game rangers observed one of the busiest opening days in some years. They were harder to find and, when located, many fish were not actively feeding, and catches were lighter than expected. However, anglers can fear not, as trout numbers in most of our rivers are in great shape and catches will definitely improve as river conditions stabilise and we get
some more sun.
Thanks to Jim and Fleur’s donation, Nelson Marlborough Fish & Game is introducing a series of spin/softbait and fly-fishing clinics to help realise the couple’s wishes.
We will also be hosting a ‘Women on the Fly’ practical fishing workshop and developing a mentoring programme where learning or intermediate anglers can be paired with fishing gurus. We also want people to catch more fish on our accessible lowland fisheries, so targeted programmes to improve success on the Wairau and Motueka (Jim’s favourite river) will be held. Email nelsonmarlborough@ fishandgame.org.nz to register.
Thomas Darling with a cracking brown trout from Opening Day of the 2024-25 fishing season. Photo: Supplied.
Dear
diary, I’m thriving in my new home, just like the strawberries
Love life on your terms.
At Summerset there are fewer chores and more choice. So if you’re done with gardening, you can hang up your gloves. But if you’re a big fan of getting amongst the flowerbeds, there’s a community of green-thumbs just waiting to meet you.
Two-bedroom villas are available with flexible pricing from $666,100.* Plus, for a limited time, we’ll help you every step of the way with $2,000 towards your legal fees, a moving service package, and no weekly fees for six months. Simply sign a sales application for a selected home between 01 October 2024 and 31 December 2024, and then settle by 31 March 2025.#
Love the life you choose.
Open Day
Thursday 24 October, 10am - 2pm Summerset Richmond Ranges 1 Hill Street North, Richmond 03 744 3432 | summerset.co.nz/richmond
Something for everyone this Motueka weekend
There’s no chance of boredom creeping in this weekend, with a plethora of events to attend.
The Motueka Garden Trail will be on all weekend, rain or shine – although organisers are hoping for more of the latter than the former. About 20 local gardens are on display around the district, including some old favourites and a huge line-up of stunning new additions.
On Sunday the Motueka Volunteer Fire Brigade is throwing open the station doors for its annual open day. The brigade is offering fire truck tours, home visit safety sign-ups, and demonstrations on motor vehicle cutting and breathing apparatus. This busy brigade is always looking for new members too, so come along between 10am-1pm to chat to the crew.
If you’ve got keen young fishers at home, the Take A Kid Fishing day provides a great opportunity to practise with their rod and reel. Bait for fish and children supplied (the latter in the form of icecream and sausages). Bring your primary-school aged kids and their fishing gear to the Talleys fishing platform from 11.30am.
History: Motueka fruit growers’ syndicate
Us kids made good pocket money picking all those berries.
Beryl Kirk
Tasman’s glittering prize snatched away
It’s finally locked in history Tasman have their name on the log of wood and two games defending it proud as for the combined union well done.
Clay Millar
Speedway champion revved up
All the best for a great race, Ian. Good luck, Amy. Let’s go racing.
D’Urville Island Wilderness Resort
Great article, looking forward to seeing ya race.
Edwin Pons
Twenty years of service and sunrises
Borlase Transport sound like amazing employers.
Rachel Kerr
What an outstanding company Borlase
Transport to appreciate your long-serving employees. Well done, and well done, Kevin.
Brent Beloe
More homeowners, fewer smokers in Tasman
Can’t afford to smoke when rents and mortgages are astronomical.
Sarah Martin
No, we all vape now can’t afford to smoke lol.
Keri Williams
Paint and decorate a Mandala Rock Wednesday 16 October, 5pm-6.30pm
Paper Artsy – Thurs 17 October, 1.30pm-3.30pm
Therapy Dog – Thurs 17 October, 10.30am
BookCafe – Mon 21 October, 10.30am-12pm
Stitch Bloom – Mon 21 October, 1pm-3pm
Unmet Friends – Fri 18 October, 10.30am-12pm
Mixed Media Beginners workshops with Sue Thorp Friday 18 & 25 October, 1 November, 10am-12pm
Register for 3 workshops to progress a piece of work. $20 per session, book at the library or phone (03) 5281047
Qigong Tasters with Ali Kay Monday 21 October, 1pm-2pm
Learn a few simple qigong exercises and explore REN XUE Yuan Qigong. Please wear comfortable clothing.
Milestone Homes Top of the South Speedway starts its “Biggest and Brightest” season in the club’s history, the headline show is the NZ Super Stock title on January 10th and 11th, arguably the biggest championship in NZ Speedway. The national event will be showcasing the brand-new lights that have been installed around the track over the winter months, the modern LED lights one of the major investments the club has made over the offseason. The club have been busy over the winter months, new seating from the past-Jade Stadium has started to be installed around the track, a long-term plan to increase seat-
ing and comfort with more NZ titles on the calendar in the coming seasons, the crew viewing area has been enlarged allowing for more public space. Milestone Homes have been confirmed as naming rights sponsors for a further 10 years, the partnership stronger than ever.
The race calendar packs in a huge programme over the summer season, with the opening meeting on October 19th featuring the Trackman Trophy for all grades, then Nelson’s biggest fireworks display lights up the sky along with the “Racing for the Kids” cycle race as part of the family fun night.
The Nelson Tigers Super Stock team has been reformed as a development squad that will take on Palmy team’s champions “The Glen Eagles” on November 16th, the Sprint Cars and Super Saloons make a return to the track on November 23rd, watch for Ian Burson in his new Super Saloon while son Jack will be in the 75n Sprint Car.
The Streetstock Tri-Series runs
on December 14th before a few visiting Super Stocks might get some time on the track at the Xmas Derby on the 28th, then it’s the DC Equipment NZ Super Stock championship. It’s shaping up to be an epic battle with 3x champion Asher Rees gunning for a 4th straight title, but there are plenty out there trying to stop him - will he find enough friends to help him, it is the
New Show Home
must-see event?
The T.Q.’s will light up the track with the NZ GP, SNZ “Competitor of the Year.” Jeremy Webb won the NZ title here last year, the most successful driver in NZ Championship history will lead a star line-up, a week after their NZ title meeting in Canterbury. The War of The Wings returns in February, the “WOW” series will once again be hotly contest-
ed with local driver Connor Rangi keen to do well on his home track.
The Rees Tour has been added to the PTS Super Stock Stampede, it will be an absolute mega weekend of racing. With the Rees Tour kicking off in Blenheim on Friday, Nelson have shifted the Stampede to Saturday night and Sunday afternoon to accommodate the expected 80+ convoy of cars that will travel to every S.I. track over a three week period. The weekend also hosts the Stock Car Summer Slam, Ministock Mania and Classic Stock cars. The season will wrap up with the “Queen of the Clay” Ladies Stock car event before the Easter Extravaganza on holiday Sunday.
The Junior Member's club will once again be sponsored by Nelson Towing + Salvage, memberships are available for kids aged up to 15yrs old, just $25 gets you a season pass and a Junior members T-Shirt plus organised activities before the meetings. The club have a Facebook page, and memberships can be done online or at the souvenir shop at the track. It’s a great way to get involved with the drivers and learn what goes on behind the scenes.
The souvenir shop will be stocking DC Equipment NZ Super Stock merchandise, bucket hats, shirts and Hoodies are all able to be pre-
ordered, along with a great range of other goodies, plus programmes, entry/membership/derby forms, it’s worth popping in for a look.
The regular entry prices for adults will be $25, seniors $20, kids 5 to 16yrs $10, under 5 free, while family passes for 2 adults and up to 3 children are $50. The NZ Super Stock title entry prices will be slightly higher, first night will be adults $30, family pass $60, second night adult $35, family $70, seniors and kids prices remain unchanged. Season passes are available, adults $300, family $600.
Tickets can be pre-purchased via the Nelson Speedway website or at the Richmond Mall kiosk, along with normal gate entry, it is highly recommended to pre-purchase for the NZ Super Stock and PTS/Rees tour events.
The meetings start at 6pm, the main gate opens from 4.30 pm (Easter and Sunday meetings will differ).
Nelson Speedway president Wayne Russ welcomes everyone along to the biggest season in the club’s history. With the NZ Super Stock title, the PTS and Rees tour, Coca-Cola fireworks, NZ T.Q. GP and the return of the Tigers, it promises to be an action-packed season, and we look forward to seeing you all trackside.
• We have been providing Transport, Construction and Earthmoving Services since 1928.
• Our modern fleet of trucks comprise of everything from Bulk Tippers, Curtainsiders, Flat Decks, Livestock units and more.
• We have a complete range of Contracting Machinery that can tackle anything from Subdivisions to Quarry work.
• We supply all types of Gravel, Aggregates, Agricultural Lime, Fertilisers and Dolomite.
Ngatimoti Voluntary Rural Fire Brigade
FENZ Ngatimoti acknowledges their volunteers, along with all FENZ and other volunteers across New Zealand.
Athletics open day a hit
A bumper turnout at the Motueka Athletics Open Day had the organisers in the happy position of thinking on their feet to ensure that the gathered children could keep using theirs.
Committee member Ria McGlashen says that they were overwhelmed by the turnout to the open day late last month, which saw more
than 90 kids coming to try their hand at a range of athletic codes such as shotput, long jump and sprints.
“This is our second season with the new committee,”
Ria says. “Our coaches are super passionate about providing opportunities for our tamariki to learn the fundamental skills of running, jumping and throwing in a fun supportive environment.”
90
Motueka local Shannon Saunders led the children through their warm-up.
Ria says the Southern Steel netballer, who attended the club and excelled at sprinting during her time at Motueka High School, has offered to pop in throughout the season.
Athletics coach Tony Aikenhead is also on board to enable the coaches and parent helpers to upskill in
the school holidays, ready for the first session on Monday, 14 October. Session times have moved earlier this year, to 4pm, and Ria says this has been met with positive feedback. There is still time to register for the 2024/2025 season - visit www.sporty.co.nz/ motueka_athletics/home or find more information on www.facebook.com/Athletics.Motueka2015.
Motueka Golf Club championship winners Ken Melind, left, Karl Clark, Jan Overall, Sandy LePine, Steve Schwass, Sharon McGeown, John Neil, Gabrielle Milnes and Larry Moses. Photo: Supplied.
NBS Motueka Golf Club Results
ELISE VOLLWEILER
Above: Kaira Mei, 7, tries her hand at shotput at the Motueka Athletics Club Open Day in late September, ready for the upcoming season which kicked off on Monday, 14 October. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
Right: Bradley Creighton takes a flying leap along the long jump track at the Motueka athletics club open day.
Photo: Ria McGlashen.
More than
children attended the Motueka athletics club open day recently. Photo: Ria McGlashen.
Community Notices
MONDAY
COMMUNITY HEALTH LECTURE: Advances in Cancer: Research to Improve Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment. Mon, 4 Nov, 7-9pm, Motueka Library. Reg-https://cancernelson. org.nz/community-health-talk/.
MOTUEKA ELYSIUM Mon, 9.30am, Muses Café. For Widows and Widowers. Join us for coffee and chat, friendship, and support. Ph: Carol 035285027.
WOULD YOU LIKE A BIKE? Bike Hub Nelson accepts donations of good used bikes, fixes them up and gives them away for a small koha. 142 Saxton Rd. Mon, 5.30-7pm. For other opening times and a map e: bikehubnelson@gmail.com.
MOTUEKA BETTER BREATHERS, Mon, 11.30am, Motueka Recreation Gym ‘Functional Fitness Room’, Old Wharf Rd. A 60-minute series of guided exercises done seated or standing, specifically designed to help those with breathing difficulties. Ph: Jess 0275467675.
MOTUEKA HIGHLAND PIPE BAND, Mon, 7pm. Band is located beside Motueka Recreation Centre. Promoting Scottish tradition and culture. Look forward to your participation. Info: Ph: 027284 8361.
MAPUA FRIENDSHIP CLUB. Indoor bowls, 1st & 3rd Mon. Mapua Bowling Club rooms. 2pm, Bring a plate of afternoon tea. Lots of laughs. Ph: Val 035403685.
TUESDAY
MOCKINGBIRDS MUSIC GROUP, Tues, 2-3.30pm, Senior Net, Pah St. If you enjoy some fun singing/playing music, come along with your instrument, we’d love you to join us. Beginners welcome. Ph: Sue 02102416155.
HOPE TENNIS CLUB SOCIAL TENNIS, Every Tues, 9.30am, Hope Tennis Courts, Hope Domain. All abilities most welcome. Queries Ph: 0211729257.
MOTUEKA BRASS, Tues Evenings. Discover your musical talent with us! Join our lively brass band for an unforgettable experience To join Ph: 021728168 or come along.
YOGA. If you have or have had cancer, we offer restorative yoga classes. Tues, 12.30pm. To Reg, Ph: 5287669.
WEDNESDAY
MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL office at Community House, Decks reserve. Wed, 11-3pm. Inquiries about art activities; funding for Art; Art ideas for Motueka. Ph: 0210589388.
AGE CONCERN TEA & TALK, Wed, 10.30am, The Shed, 24a Tudor St. More info Ph: 0279214074.
KNIT & NATTER Wed, 10-12pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Hub, 10 Pah St. Friendly group for all ages. Includes refreshments. All welcome.
WALK 4 HEALTH, Wed, 9am, Motueka Community Garden. 30-50 min walk at your own pace, for any age, any fitness and size. Ph:0273015598.
MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL invites all folk interested in community arts in Motueka, to their monthly meetings. 2nd Wed of month, 7pm, community house.
TOASTMASTERS MOTUEKA meet 1st & 3rd Wed of month, 6.45pm start, St John’s rooms, Jack Inglis Hosp, Courtney St. Gain speaking confidently, friendly environment. More Info Ph: Peter 0277468311.
MOTUEKA SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLUB, Wed, 7.30pm, Lower Moutere Hall. Keep fit while having fun. All ages, no partner needed. First time free. Enq Ph: Fay 0210393559.
DEATH CAFÉ, 2nd Wed of month, 10-11.30am. Revite Café, 256 High St. An open space for people to talk about death and dying. e:margaret@margaretmccallum.com
MEDITATION, Weekly meditation sessions open to all. Thurs, 12.15-12.45pm, Te Noninga Kumu - Motueka Library. During term time. No registration needed. Just come along. Info: Ph: Louise 0278789240.
NELSON BAYS HARMONY CHORUS, (women’s choir), is seeking new members to join our happy group. Thurs eve -
DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY
50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: office@topsouthmedia.co.nz
nings, Club Waimea, Richmond. Ph: Carole 0274360910. MOTUEKA 50+ WALKING GROUP Thurs. More info Ph: 0212640403 e: secretary50pluswalkers@gmail.com, or www. motueka50pluswalkers.org.nz.
RUMMIKUB Thurs, 1-4pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Club, 10 Pah St. Friendly group, includes refreshments. All welcome. Ph: Keith 0274516422.
THE DOCTORS MOTUEKA – Walking Group, Thurs, 9am, by the Janie Seddon Shipwreck carpark. Walking for 30 mins, suitable for all fitness levels. Make your daily walk more fun and meet new people. Ph: 035288358.
NVC PRACTICE GROUP (NONVIOLENT / COMPASSIONATE COMMUNICATION), Every 2nd Thurs, 7-8.30pm, Motueka. In school term. For info e: margaret@margaretmccallum.com.
PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meet 1st Thurs of month, 1.30-3.30pm, Broadgreen House, 276 Nayland Rd. Ph: Bill 035448635 or 035391137.
MOTUEKA G.R.G 2nd & 4th Thurs, 1-3pm, St Andrews lounge, 64 High St. Support group welcomes grandparents/ kin raising/ supporting grandchildren. Join us for a confidential relaxed and supportive time with others. Ph: 0211337299.
SENIORNET MOTUEKA. 2nd Thurs of month, 2pm. Hear all about a different country in our Countries & Cultures Interest Group. Join SeniorNet. Ph: Maureen 02102600432
FRIDAY
MOTUEKA REBUS CLUB, Fri, 18 Oct, 10am, The Bandrooms. Great speakers, good fellowship, all welcome. Ph: John 0274082206.
SENIORNET MOTUEKA, The Genealogy Interest Group meets 2nd Fri, 2pm. Ph: Maureen 02102600432
SENIORNET MOTUEKA, The Smartphone, iPad, iPhone and Tablet Interest Group meets 3rd Fri, 2pm. Ph Maureen 02102600432
SATURDAY / SUNDAY
WAIMEA HARRIERS Sat, 19 Oct, Mapua S + F 10k event. Registration on deck of Mapua Community Hall from 1.15-
2pm. Registration closes 2pm. Welcome all runners and walkers to join us. waimeaharriers.nz for more info.
MOTUEKA DANCE GROUP, Dance, Sat, 19 Oct, 7.30pm, Mapua Hall. $8 Entry plus a Supper Plate and Raffles.
All Welcome. Ph: Lloyd 035289415
TREWAVAS ST ART WALK. Sat, 30 Nov, 10- 3pm. Artists selling their creations direct to you! On rain or shine.
NELSON RAILWAY Founders Park. Railcar is running Thurs, Fri, Sat this week, weather permitting. Train will run Sun, Both start 11am. Follow us on Facebook.
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Sat, 10-12pm, Motueka Library. Free services, including copy certification and witnessing signatures are available.
NELSON BRANCH OF ROYAL NZ AIRFORCE ASSOCIATION
Meet 2nd Sat each month, 12pm, Club Waimea, Richmond, Phil’s Restaurant. Interesting speakers, raffles and members interested in Aviation Ph: Trever Squires 039706644 or John Bethwaite 035476634. Cost of meal $25
HOUSIE: 1st and 4th Sat of month, 10 Pah St. Over 50s Social Hub. Ph: Jude 0273244226. All Welcome. Afternoon tea included. Cards $4. Raffles available.
GENERAL GROUPS
CREATIVE COMMUNITIES SCHEME Funding for arts activities,events, & training for groups or individuals. Close 10 Nov. Application forms online at TDC funding/Tasman Creative Communities. Help from:- motuekaartscouncil@ gmail.com
ENCOURAGEMENT GRANTS of upto $500 for groups & Individuals with an art project involving our local community.
Contact: motuekaartscouncil@gmail.com
MOTUEKA NEWCOMERS New to Motueka? We’re a social group, mostly retired (50+) who meet regularly and welcome newcomers. More info Ph: Jana 035284355.
MOTUEKA MENZSHED, Tues, Wed or Thurs 9-12pm, MenzShed, Marchwood Park, College Rd. Give the missus some space, come to the menzshed. Just turn up or e: secretarymotmenzShed@gmail.com.
MOTUEKA RED CROSS. Open Mon – Sat, 10-2pm, Community House. Donations of clothing, books, shoes, linen welcome. MOTUEKA TRAMPING CLUB, A diversity of weekend day walks and multi-day trips suitable for a range of fitness levels. Visit www.motuekatrampingclub.org to learn more about your local Club, or e: membership.motuekatc@gmail.com for info on joining.
MOTUEKA DISTRICT TOY LIBRARY, Tues, and Thurs, 9-11am, and Sat, 10-12pm, 44 Pah St. Annual membership $30. Hundreds of toys for all ages.
MOTUEKA RIDING FOR THE DISABLED We need more volunteers to help with therapeutic riding sessions. Tues, Wed, Thurs, 8.30-1pm. Ph: 0211151720 or e: info@motuekarda.nz. MOTUEKA TENNIS CLUB. INC. Social Tennis, Tues & Thurs, 9.30am, Sun, 2pm. Courts behind the Memorial Hall Pah St. Racquets available to borrow for new Members. All welcome. MULTICULTURAL MOTUEKA welcomes migrants and refugees every Tues, 8.30-1pm, Fri, 8.30 -2pm, Community House, Decks Reserve. We provide connection and practical assistance for newcomers to our region as well as support for all cultural activities happening in our community. Ph 027 5286744 or sez@multiculturalnt.co.nz.
NEED A LIFT? Mapua Willing Wheels Volunteer Drivers Service, affordable transport around Mapua, Motueka, Richmond, Nelson (no airport runs). 24 hrs’ notice req. To book Ph: 0226822373. mapuawheels@gmail.com.
NELSON HOSPICE The Motueka shop needs volunteers! If you would like to volunteer for us, please enquire at the shop or Ph: 035281178.
NEED AFFORDABLE COUNSELLING? Life Linc Nelson has been serving the region for 50 years and has rooms in Nelson, Richmond and Motueka. We provide low cost counselling up to 10 sessions and for anyone ages 12+. Couples counselling also avail. Contact us at www.lifelinc.co.nz or e: clinical@ lifelinc.co.nz.
RUM MORRIS DANCERS. Musicians and dancers but mostly friends. Slightly random - mostly Tues evenings, sometimes Wed. Get yourself a second favourite form of aerobic exercise. Ph: Dorris 02040618088.
Community notices are free to community groups, schools, churches, gold coin donation events and fundraising only. For classified ads and public notices please call
528 2088. Due to the popularity of this column, while every effort will be made, inclusion cannot be guaranteed for free ads.
Puzzles and Sudoku
Grants
Application
Email:
for the Disabled Inc
$2,500 $2,500 $2,000 $2,500 $3,000 $2,500 $26,600
Victoria Ellen
Passed away on 9th October 2024 surrounded by
Loved wife of Daryl for 43 years. Loved mother & mother-in-law of Shannon and Ben, Corey and Macey.
The story of a German athlete who waited 20 years to compete in the Abel Tasman Coastal Classic highlights the event’s global pull.
“This guy was on the wait list in case someone pulled out. When we said you are in, he replied I can’t afford it now but he still came to the classic and loved it,” says race director Averil West after the 30th and final running of the epic trail run.
The field was capped at 350, but the organisers were swamped with so many entries that they could have put on a second 33 kilometre run from Araroa to Mārahau.
“The weather was fantastic on Saturday and so different to our first race from Totaranui to Mārahau in 1994,” recalls Averil.
“The seas were rough and getting competitors to the start line was tough going.
And then it was wet and cold.
“I will never forget having to lug about 100 heavy bags ashore from a boat.”
Not a race for faint hearted then but it kept drawing back Nelson podiatrist Chris Gates every year except for 2021 when Covid-19 stopped the event in its tracks.
With several age grade titles behind him, he was satisfied to go around in just over four and half hours at the weekend.
“My feet have been pretty good over the years but that Kaiteriteri Beach run almost turns 33kms in to a marathon,” says the 65-year-old.
Elite trail racers Vajin Armstrong and Hannah Oldroyd comfortably retained their titles, while for many it was just the joy of running in such a stunning location.
Also on hand to see off the event in style were remnants of the Motueka Round Table who had been manning the Torrent Bay aid station since day one.
They were part of the 40-strong band of volunteers who kept the coastal classic ticking over. Plenty of memories were shared at the prize giving, in a marquee, at the Kaiteriteri Domain.
“We have had a marriage proposal and a honeymoon along the trail,” beams Averil, whose West family company Nelson Events Limited has run events for around 35 years. Their retirement doesn’t automatically mean they pass on the licence to another operator.
“It is up to the Department of Conservation to decide to let someone take it on,” concludes Averil.
“The organisers have done an amazing job over the years and they kept the entry fees down too,” says Chris who had earned “survivor status”.
Above: Race director Averil West reflecting on her iconic 30 years of running an iconic event. Right: Chris Gates competed in every event. Photos: Supplied.
