You couldn’t wipe the smiles of the faces of Kahurangi’s players and supporters after they rose to the occasion to come away winners of the Tasman Trophy.
JACK MALCOLM
Kahurangi are the kings of the Tasman Trophy after a hardfought win over Central. In a rematch of last year’s final, the tables were turned as Kahurangi stormed home to win 20-12 in front of home fans at Sports Park Motueka.
It was a game that had both team’s supporters on the edge of their seats, with neither side able to build a comfortable lead to play behind.
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Kahurangi crowned champions
Both teams looked to play conservative finals rugby, engaging in a battle of territory that saw the majority of early play through the midfield.
Kahurangi struck first, kicking for the corner from a penalty and earning another to put points on the board through the boot of Willie Havili.
three points into the half-time sheds.
A missed penalty chance for Kahurangi saw them unable to grow their lead, having to take just
Central snatched the lead with some last gasp heroics as they kept the pressure up and opted
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Photo: Chris Symes/Shuttersport.
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Tertiary students encourage rural health as career option
Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network
In a bid to tackle the severe lack of health professionals in rural communities, a team of tertiary students headed to rural areas of Tasman and Nelson to promote rural health careers to high school students last month.
The team visited Tapawera, Collingwood and Murchison Area Schools, Motueka High School, Waimea College and Nelson College for Girls to try and inspire more young rural people to pursue careers as general practitioners, nurses, or other health practitioners as part of Hauora Taiwhenua’s nationwide Rural Health Careers Programme.
Hauora Taiwhenua chief executive, Dr Grant Davidson, highlights how new research shows there are large gaps in rural healthcare provision.
“Rural communities are experiencing unprecedented challenges due to climate change, economic uncertainty, and a healthcare workforce that is
students near their own age is a great way to motivate and educate them. It is also a practical way for tertiary health students to give back, with many from rural backgrounds sharing their real-life experiences.”
Karis Gordon, spoke on how she was able to connect with kids in rural areas and show them a career they might not have considered otherwise.
“I am a student dietitian, and almost none of the kids ever considered it as a career, and neither did I when I was their age,” she says.
stretched to its limits,” he says. “Improving outcomes requires a strong, resilient rural health workforce. We must equip and encourage our rural rangatahi to serve in our rural regions, and this programme is a pivotal step towards engaging rural youth in healthcare careers.”
Grant explains that using the energy and enthusiasm of tertiary students on health training pathways is a great way to expose rural youth to possible health careers.
“Providing the opportunity for youth in rural areas to discuss career options with tertiary
“It was also so valuable to let these kids know that their first idea may not work out, but there are so many avenues in healthcare and that they were all capable. It was so special, and something I wish I had been able to see when I was in school.”
The interactive workshops were well attended, giving hands-on experience with medical and dental equipment and a chance to talk first-hand with young people who have already embarked on this journey.
Pictured at the front, from left to right, are Evie Harris, Lucy Crawford, Emma Bailey, Petra Ranjit, Eric Seo and Aaron George, visiting staff at Golden Bay Community Health. Photo: Supplied.
Go-ahead for wastewater plant relocation
Tasman District Council’s elected members have given the go-ahead to start the process of finding a new site for Motueka’s wastewater treatment plant.
The current site has been deemed no longer appropriate, as it is at risk from sea level rise, flooding from the Motueka River and storm surges along the coast.
It will also be at full capacity relatively soon if the current rate of growth continues, and the standards regulating the discharge of treated wastewater have become more challenging to achieve. Furthermore, the current resource consent expires
in 2035.
“In giving the go-ahead for the first stage of the scheme, we are aware of the complexity involved with this infrastructure, says Tasman Mayor Tim King.
“The first year will be focused on developing a robust development and implementation framework.”
The initial process will, in addition to regular interim progress reports, have a final report date to the council of May 2025. The outcomes will include an outline of the completed work and seek direction for the second year.
A council spokesperson says it is essential that this project is clearly commu-
nicated to all of Motueka and the wider district with plenty of opportunity for input, information gathering and conversations with the community.
“Obviously, the possible impact of the impending Local Water Done Well legislation and process will need to be considered.
“The implications of the proposed and final changes to that work will need to be considered within this first planning year,” they say.
“With so many variables surrounding this project already, a robust framework for design, decision-making and development is essential.”
Meals on Wheels drivers get a delivery of gratitude
ELISE VOLLWEILER
A celebration of Motueka’s Red Cross contributors was held in the Motueka Library last week, where a host of long-standing op shop staff and Meals on Wheels drivers were given certificates to acknowledge their dedicated service. More than 35 people were acknowledged, some of whom have served more than 30 years
for the charity. Meals on Wheels driver Pru Todhunter says that the service enables older and less mobile people to stay in their own homes and keep their independence for longer, as well as pro-
viding a point of outside contact for them. She has been volunteering with the Red Cross for 15 years, and she says that she started giving her time in part because her mother used to volunteer for
the same service. Motueka Red Cross fundraising shop president Jenny Dixon-Didier says that the presentation is an acknowledgement of the valuable time people gave to their organisation.
The current site of the plant is at risk from sea level rise. Photo: Supplied/Tasman District Council.
Motueka’s Red Cross contibutors were celebrated at an event last week. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
Councillors itch for wider-reaching feral cat control
MAX FRETHEY
Local Democracy Reporter
Nelson Tasman’s updated pest plan will keep the focus on managing feral cats to a few specific sites, despite councillors’ eagerness for stronger controls.
The review of the region’s pest management plan allows for the control of feral and stray cats, and of several species of wilding pines.
The control of pest cats will be limited to select sites in the Abel Tasman National Park, around the town of St Arnaud, around the Waimea Inlet, and in
high-value sites in Nelson City.
Nelson councillor Rachel Sanson questioned why there weren’t additional sites in areas like the Waimea Inlet, Motueka Valley, Golden Bay, and Cable Bay slated for control of feral cats.
“Being that we are in a state of biodiversity collapse. I just want to make sure that we are really considering these other areas.”
Nelson councillor Matthew Benge and Tasman councillor Mike Kininmonth also expressed frustration at the lack of penalties for irresponsible cat owners within the plan.
“Is there no consequence?” Matthew asked. “Because if there isn’t, we haven’t achieved anything.”
Nelson councillor Aaron Stallard advocated for a stronger approach to holding pine plantation owners liable for the spread of wilding pines onto neighbouring properties where pine control was being undertaken.
The plan limits the plantations’ liability to July 2024 onwards.
“The rule is severely hamstrung by the fact we’re not addressing legacy pines,” he said.
Tasman councillor Celia Butler, chair of
the Regional Pest Management Joint Committee, however, reminded councillors that the changes to the pest management plan were required to undergo a cost-benefit analysis. Controlling feral cats and wilding pines across a larger area or for by applying rules retroactively would make pest management far more costly.
“We’ve got to limit it somewhere, from a pragmatic point of view, for what’s doable and remembering the cost-benefit analysis required.”
Rob Smith, Tasman District Council’s acting group manager for information, science, and technology, added that the updated plan was about getting “on the pathway” towards better pest management.
“It is a learning opportunity for us and the community, and for the next few years the operation of these new rules will essentially be reported against,” he said. “So that when we come back in 2029 to re-do the regional pest management plan, we can learn on that as well. We will get better, this is our first stab.”
Speaking to concerns of the councillors more directly, Smith added that the new feral and stray cat rules would enable pest control groups at the identified locations to better protect those high-value areas.
The pest management plan would also work “hand-in-hand” with the cat bylaws that each council was developing, and that cats were also controlled to some degree by other laws, such as the Animal Welfare Act and the Wildlife Act. As for wilding pines, Rob acknowledged the current rules weren’t the “endgame” for their control but were encouraging positive management going forward with the support of the community and plantation owners. Councillors then voted to recommend that the region’s two councils adopt the updated plan at the end of the committee’s meeting on Thursday. Regional pest management will be reviewed again from about 2027 in preparation for a 2029 plan.
‘I was lucky that I had good people to look after me’
ELISE VOLLWEILER
It is a rather unexpected and heart-warming development that an orphanage should prove to be the gateway to gathering families in so many forms.
This is indeed how life developed for 64-year-old Mike Compton, who spent seven years in the Whakarewa Children’s Home, located at the end of College Street towards the Motueka Valley.
The home was a facility – and for many, a haven – that housed and cared for orphans and children from adverse conditions.
Mike’s assembled family includes not only the 20-odd children who resided at any one time in the home alongside him, but also local churchgoers, a loving foster family, and an unravelling list of half-siblings whom he has discovered later in life.
The Motueka local is a long-time Talleys employee and retired deputy fire chief with the Motueka fire brigade.
He attended a recent ceremony farewelling the home, which had sat disused for many years and is now being deconstructed by the Ngāti Rārua and Te Ātiawa iwi who own and administer the land.
Mike, the second of four children, was placed at the home in 1967, at seven years old.
His older brother and younger sister went with him, while their youngest sister was not yet five and was sent to a different facility in Nelson.
His parents had their demons and their relationship had been fraught with alcoholism and abuse.
Although the children ended up in their father’s care for a time, it wasn’t a good situation for them, and “people could see that he wasn’t coping very well”, Mike says.
The orphanage offered the chil-
dren three meals a day and a safe environment.
“We got looked after, to a certain extent,” Mike says – at least, he added, a lot better than their father could have done.
When the children were small, they slept in a dormitory with their own cubicles, graduating to their own rooms as they grew.
They woke early and did the chores that were laid out on a roster.
Then they caught the bus to school – Motueka South School for the younger ones, and Motueka High School for the older –and did more chores and a decent stint of homework after school.
There was also plenty of time for play.
Mike says the children were lucky to have a swimming pool, a gymnasium, a woodworking department, a library, and a tennis court all on-site.
“And we had the farm and hills around us.”
They would spend hours making huts down at the river, or building sleds for the hills, or crafting slingshots.
Mike reckons that no ceramic power-pole coupling was safe from the careful aim of their shanghais.
Although there were the usual sibling ructions, the Whakarewa children were a tight unit and looked after each other, Mike
says.
“If you ever had a fight at school with one of the home kids, you took on the whole home.”
The establishment had staff – a cook, cleaners, and the master and matron - Mr and Mrs Christianson when Mike and his siblings arrived, a kind couple who Mike remembers fondly.
After Sunday’s church sessions, the children would spend time with families of the congregation. Mike is still in contact with the Baker family, who would host him regularly.
During many school holidays, Mike and the other children were sent to stay with local families, and Mike was often billeted to the
Saul family in Blenheim.
He considers them as his foster family, referencing the parents as “Mum and Dad” and their four children as his siblings.
“They treated me like a family member,” he says.
His birth mother disappeared for a while when he went into the home – “we didn’t know if she’d died, nothing” – and reappeared in his life when he was 14.
Mike’s sisters, by then both in the Whakarewa Home, were returned to her care in Wairau, but Mike was doing well at high school and wished to stay in Motueka. He left the home and lived with his Motueka-based father for a year before moving to a bach on a farm at 15, to work for the Trewavas family, whose kindness has stayed with him.
“I was lucky that I had good people to look after me.”
After seven years there, he moved on to Talleys and says that he is grateful for the support they have given him in the decades since. Long suspecting that there was something that marked him as different from his brother and sisters, Mike has in recent years done DNA tests that led to the discovery that he has a different biological father – a revelation that comes with more family connections for him and another set of aunts and uncles for his four children.
Mike’s memories of the Whakarewa Children’s Home are not all positive – the punishments for naughty behaviour were harsh, and many of the children had come from bad situations which left them with trauma and anxiety, conditions that back then were not well understood. However, he is grateful that it was the path that was available to himself and his siblings.
“Thank goodness we ended up in the home when we did,” Mike says.
Mike Compton (middle row, fourth from left) is pictured in about 1970 with some of the other residents of the Whakarewa Children’s Home, a facility that enabled him a relatively safe and supported childhood. The children were performing as part of the Motueka South School folk dance display. Photo: Supplied.
Crash investigator’s legacy of safer roads
ELISE VOLLWEILER
You know you’ve been in the police force for a long time when you describe the timeline of your engagement with the phrase, “and a few homicides later”… without flinching.
After 46 years of service, Simon Burberry retired from the police force last month. The last 25 years were spent as the Tasman District crash investigator, which meant a life where he always had a bag packed, ready to be on the road within 15 minutes of the next call. It was crucial that he arrived at a crash site as quickly as possible because that was the best way to form a true picture of what had happened.
“Everything tells a story,” he explains. “Every mark, every gouge, every scrape, every piece of damage, every contact.”
The push of the scene investigations is less about figuring out who is at fault for the sake of a prosecution, and more about identifying how the next crash can be avoided. The crash scene investigator job was a newly-created one, encouraged by road policing manager Hugh Flower, who – like Simon – had an interest in unpicking just how crash
rates and fatalities could be reduced. For several years, Simon was the only person in the role, covering 35 to 40 fatal crashes each year. Each of these took three days of field investigation and then “weeks and months of enquiry work” afterwards. An off-sider was eventually appointed, and Simon is being replaced by two people upon his retirement.
He got into the job in the late 70s as a “young hoon” after being pulled aside by one of Motueka’s traffic cops, who had noted his penchant for speeding around on his motorbike. He was warned that he was on a path to serious trouble, but that there was also a job out there that supplied the motorbikes, would pay him to ride them and enabled him to go as fast as he liked. The
attitude towards these things has since changed, Simon notes, but those were the days when highspeed chases were expected, and it was almost disappointing if the other vehicle gave up the chase too quickly.
He spent several years as a motorbike patrol officer, melting through his gloves in the winter by hugging the engine for warmth before the role lost its appeal and he took on a full-time job as the Richmond/ Waimea police officer.
As a rural officer, he attended a lot of serious crashes, and was often first on the scene, at a time when rescue helicopters were less frequent and took more red tape to deploy. Unless the crashes were close to town, they often turned into fatalities, Simon says.
“This changed my whole outlook on crashes, and I undertook extra studies and courses to better understand how crashes occurred, thinking that might be part of the answer to preventing them.”
As much as he loved community policing, he was being pulled away from the general roster too often to attend fatal crashes, as well as the forensic mapping of serious
crime scenes like homicides, serious assaults and arsons. In 1999, he reluctantly left the general duties roster to take on the newly created full-time position of Tasman District crash investigator. By the time he retired, he attended 13 to 20 fatalities a year. He says the road toll has reduced due to the police’s targeted enforcement, the improved medical responses, and the safety improvements that have been done on roads, thanks in large part to the research that has come by investigating past crashes. Modern cars are also better designed to take the impact of a crash, rather than transferring that impact onto the humans inside. Retirement is an adjustment that Simon is still getting his head around. He met crime scene photographer Jools during a homicide investigation on the West Coast, and the pair kept running into each other on the job. One crime scene led to another, and they have now been engaged for 16 years. Simon reckons that after 46 years on the force, he needs to figure out “how to redefine who I am as a private citizen”. A September wedding in Rarotonga will be just the ticket.
Simon Burberry’s role as crash investigator took him around the region. Photo: Supplied.
Second time lucky for chamber music duo
SUPPLIED CONTENT
The Motueka Music Group, in association with Chamber Music NZ, was very saddened to have to cancel their most recent concert at the very last minute, due to weather complications. When one half of a duo can’t get into Nelson to play, you really have no option.
However, the chamber music gods have smiled on Motueka
and the chamber music duo, that is Jian Liu on piano and Andrew Joyce on cello, have been able to rearrange their busy tour schedule to fit Motueka in.
The Motueka Music Group are thrilled to be able to add this reprised concert to their performance schedule on Friday 19 July, 7.30pm at the Motueka Chanel Arts Centre.
For those of you who are unfamiliar with the work of these
Expensive roadside rubbish
In the past 12 months, Tasman District Council has spent close to $45,000 on collecting litter from roadsides, reserves and beaches, and more than $100,000 cleaning up material dumped on riversides. A council spokesperson says they have even had reports of people dumping rubbish on other people’s properties. “We must employ contractors to collect rubbish from roadsides and public areas, and this is a growing expense.” If you see rubbish being dumped somewhere it shouldn’t be, get the registration number of the vehicles involved and call (03) 543 8400.
Historic placing for brass band
NBS Nelson City Brass has taken out second place in the A Grade section of the National Band Competition – a historic placing for the band. The event, which took place on Saturday night in Auckland, saw the band compete against top bands from around the country and overseas. While Wellington Brass came out on top, the Nelson band excelled in many of the individual sections of the competition gaining an aggregate score that put them into second place for the first time. Individual band members also shined at the competition, with Mike Ford and Kay MacKenzie both picking up awards.
Alcohol advertising at Saxton Oval
The Nelson and Tasman councils have given the green light for alcohol advertising to take place at international cricket matches that come to the region. The change was made after last-minute exemptions were made for the international games over the summer season that had been jeopardised due to an alcoholic beverages company being one of the games’ major sponsors. The alcohol advertising will only take place at international cricket games at Saxton Oval – other cricket matches and the rest of Saxton Field will remain free of alcohol advertising.
musicians, this duo are highly active and influential in the NZ chamber music scene. Andrew Joyce has been the principal cellist in the NZSO, and before joining the orchestra in 2010 he spent five years freelancing in London, playing regularly with the London Symphony and London Philharmonic Orchestras, touring the world’s great concert halls as guest principal. He also co-founded the Puertas Quartet,
who have performed both in the UK and NZ to critical acclaim. Andrew Joyce joins forces with internationally-acclaimed concert pianist Dr Jian Liu, who is currently the acting head of school and head of piano studies at the New Zealand School of Music—Te Kōkī. Jian has premiered and recorded many NZ compositions and was nominated for best classical artist in the NZ Music Awards. Although the pair
have played together in chamber ensembles, this is their first collaboration as a duo.
The Motueka Chanel Arts Centre carries its own ambience - a very special place to listen and enjoy the music on offer.
Tickets are available from the Motueka Floral Studio on High St (cash only) and at the door on the evening of the concert (Eftpos available). Adults $25, school children $5.
Local History
The Burton Butter Factory in Motueka
Frederick William Thorp, son of settler Charles Thorp and one time Mayor of Motueka, designed and established the Burton Butter Factory in Motueka in 1891, which was then leased by Rankin and Sons Ltd.
It was built of wood, covered an area of 40ft by 40ft with 16ft studs and walls six inches thick and lined with sawdust.
As to its operations – air shafts passed from the factory rooms to ventilators in the roof, allowing the factory to be kept cool in warm weather and to be able to maintain an even temperature. The factory consisted of three main areas with the principal one being the milk room where the new milk was received into a large
tin-lined tank, holding about 150 gallons. In the tank was a coil of piping through which hot or cold water could be run to either heat or cool the milk.
Once the milk was at the proper temperature it passed into the separator, driven by a steam engine.
From the separator the skimmed milk flowed through one aperture into a funnel, and then into a pipe driven by means of a force pump and flowed out to the piggeries some 200 yards away. The cream passed into a reservoir, and to the cream tank, capable of holding 130 gallons, also fitted with a coil similar to that in the milk tank. The cream progressed to a churn which was made to revolve rapidly on its axle by steam for up to 20 minutes. After the butter milk
was run off through a patent tap, the butter itself was washed and passed through two large rollers, allowing for all butter milk remaining to be pressed out and
salt to be pressed in. 300lbs of butter could be achieved in 45 minutes after which it passed into the packing room where it was either placed in tubs or in rimu boxes.
For the local market the butter was simply passed over the pounding machine, which turned out the right weight and stamped the name of the factory into the butter before finally being wrapped in grease and air-proof paper.
A third room was the tinning room where there was a Danish tinning plant.
This machinery made tins in sizes varying from those capable of holding 28lb down to half pound tins which were made airtight through a system of overlapping edges, using pressure, ensuring
an air-tight join. Each tin passed through eight machines by the time it was ready for packing.
With the milk from each cow being separately tested it was thought almost impossible for any impurities to get in.
The separator, churn, and other machines at the factory were driven by a three-horsepower engine, and the engine was kept going by a six-horsepower boiler.
The factory successfully operated for 14 years before being destroyed by fire on the 5th of January 1905.
With a strong breeze blowing, the fire spread rapidly with no time to even attempt to save the building or its contents. It was not the only loss for Rankin and Son’s as six months later another of their stores was destroyed by fire.
Gymnasts shine as local competition in doubt
JACK MALCOLM
The future of the Top of the South Gymnastics competition is in doubt after organisers cannot get a stadium for 2025.
With around 80 locals in the mix alongside over 550 gymnasts from around the country, the event is just one of three on the national calendar to be held in a stadium.
This year’s event director, Helen Houghton, says it’s her last year organising the event after a decade-and-a-half of involvement.
“It’s a long-established competition and known to be very friendly and very hospitable.
“We can’t get a stadium for next year; we haven’t got a booking.”
This year’s competition was held at the Trafalgar Centre.
Helen says preparations for each year’s event start the moment the tournament ends, with things ramping up as it gets closer.
“I have a timeline for a whole year.
“You do a little bit getting sorted and organised and it’s really quite involved for two months.
“We’re very thankful for Blenheim’s gymnastic club, who lend us two 20-foot containers of gear and matting to come over, it’s a big undertak-
ing.”
And the competition attracts some top talent, with 10 of the country’s top 11 judges in attendance.
The highest performing locals were Nina Usui and Ashlee Reddecliffe, who came away first and second in the step 9 all-round apparatus finals. Nina, with 45.05 points, finished in first while also taking the top spot in uneven bars, while Ashlee settled for second by winning the vault and floor.
In the all-around competition, Nina finished third with 44.685 points and Ashlee came in just behind on 44.066.
ROBYN PARKES
Designer and owner of Burton Butter Factory, F W Thorp. Photo: Supplied.
Nina Usui in control as she tackles the balance beam at what may be the Top of the South Gymnastics competition’s last edition after they couldn’t secure a venue for 2025. Photo: Jack Malcolm.
Ten years and counting for Te Piki Oranga
ELISE VOLLWEILER
Ticking off its first decade in operation was cause for celebration for Te Piki Oranga last week.
Te Piki Oranga is a kaupapa Māori primary health provider for the Top of the South, with hubs in Motueka, Nelson and Blenheim. The organisation delivers a range of health and wellbeing services on behalf of regional and national health partners.
1. Lee Potae-Henare
2. Heke Kelly and Val Dewe
3. Ellie Moyle and Summer Stronach
4. Kahukura, Riley and Tia
5. Kapa haka group
Makalio Vaitaki and Hika Stephens
Photos: Elise Vollweiler
The gathering was held last Thursday at Te Awhina Marae, the base of Motueka’s TPO services. It was supported by aligning services who were on hand to offer health advice, inoculations and first aid for any bumps and bruises. Fry bread, hangi and a sausage sizzle proved popular, and the attending children enjoyed throwing themselves up and down the bouncy castles and trying out their sumo stance on the pop-up ring.
Rachelle Tauroa, whose role is Kaiawhi Hangarau/IT support and comms, says that the event was a “celebration of collaboration”. “It was a day to celebrate the whānau and community organisations that we work with.” She says it was a fun day for families, with a bit of shopping, some health checks available and the chance to kōrero/ converse with the staff from both Te Piki Oranga and the other services who came along to tautoko/ support the day.
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Council abuse rising
To those Councillors and members of TDC staff that are on the receiving end of abuse, I offer my sympathies for this unacceptable behaviour. To those members of the public that are being abusive…….. know that you aren’t helping anything and I’d bet you haven’t put up your hand to do what is becoming a pretty unenviable task. I certainly am not a big fan of the way things are going within Tasman district, with significant rises in rates and proposed debt levels, and my perceived understanding of prudent financial management. Ratepayers are NOT a limitless source of revenue. And I WILL take to this forum to say so. Note also that I’m not in a position to be able to take on such a task. So cut out the abuse, you needn’t be abusive to get your point across, and next local body elections stand for a position or at the very least…..vote!
Phil Allan
Emotionally charged farwell for Whakarewa Children’s Home
My Great grandfather and his two brothers lived there in 1899 after their father died. They were from Greymouth.
Lynley Wilson-Smith
My Grandfather and his 2 brothers lived here.
Kyle Abbott
Arson of Tākaka rental destroyed long-standing family home
Wasn’t long enough that 4 yrs he will
only have to serve half that an he be out
Lisa Maree Christie
So sad for the family.
Shelley Bishop
Tapawera’s Matariki hāngī celebration
Way to go, Tapawera.
Roxana Jones
Government shouldn’t stop speed limit changes that make sense
Central government’s meddling in speed limits ignores momentum physics in the event of accidents, and the terrain and types of roads in our region and much of NZ. Targeted lowered speed limits have proved their worth in our view with fewer fatal and serious injury accidents. We’d like to see even greater attention paid to areas around schools. An element that Simeon Brown omits is the impact of serious accidents on those personally affected - including first responders and medical personnel, and the enormous cost to NZ for ongoing care and loss of productivity of those disabled.
Peter Myra Millward
School Holiday Programme for school aged children
Theme - Discover Te Rangi, the sky
Get Crafty – Wednesday 17 July, 2pm3pm
Come and create special Art projects around the theme of Te Rangi, the sky.
Lego Fun – Sky theme in the Winter Chill Zone – Thursday 18 July, 10am11am
Scavenger Hunt – Find the answers to the clues of this Te Rangi – Sky Scavenger Hunt.
Heart Checks with Averil West from The Heart Foundation Wednesday 17 July, 11am-1pm, All welcome
Therapy Dog – Thursday 18 July, 10.30am
Come and meet Lacy and handler Claire Hutt
Show and Share an Object –Wednesday 24 July 1.30pm-3pm Bring along a special object that has a fascinating history, is an heirloom or has a special meaning to you. Show your object and share your story.
Poetry Circle – Thursday 25 July, 10.30am-12pm
Paper Artsy – Thursday 25 July, 1.30pm-3.30pm
Unmet friends – Friday 26 July, 10.30am-12pm
Govt shouldn’t stop speed limit reductions that ‘make sense’
MAX FRETHEY
Local Democracy Reporter
Not all of the impending speed limit changes wanted in Nelson Tasman are in line with the Government’s new guidance, but the message from the region is that it shouldn’t matter.
The joint transport committee for the two councils approved its submission on the Government’s draft rule on the setting of speed limits on Tuesday.
Contained in the submission was a call for greater freedom for councils to set speed limits they thought were appropriate.
“A number of these rules essentially strip our council’s and our community’s ability to make decisions on the speeds that they want to see,” said Nelson’s deputy mayor Rohan O’Neill-Stevens.
“A lot of these questions are ones that, at least I believe, we should be asking and answering.”
The transport committee also recommended that the joint committee of all elected members from the Nelson and Tasman councils adopt the region’s
Tasman’s dairy farmers maintain high effluent compliance
amended speed management plan. Though the amended plan won’t bring about the blanket speed limit reductions that were initially consulted on, it still allows for about 350 speed limit changes across the region, with most being slated for areas
Of the 111 dairy farms that had active effluent discharges across Tasman in the 2023/24 milking season, 93 per cent maintained full compliance with the district’s rules. Only eight farms weren’t complying with their conditions, and they were all classified as low risk. There were no instances of moderate risk or significant non-compliance. These results maintain Tasman’s trend of achieving over 90 per cent compliance over the last decade.
Riwaka fire checks
around schools, on narrow or winding unsealed roads, and on high-risk roads.
Most of these changes are supported by the guidance from the Government in its draft rule, but there are several other cases where the councils are looking to lower
Tasman’s rural fire team will be hitting the streets of Riwaka this weekend to check on rural residents. They’ll be conducting free home fire safety visits to check if your smoke alarms are working, as well as offer advice to keep your home and property fire safe. They’ll be out and about on Sunday afternoon and while they won’t be able to visit every home, they’ll make a huge impact. All you have to do is wait for them to arrive.
the speed limits in areas that are inconsistent with the rule’s contents. Those inconsistencies are for rural residential roads that aren’t on the urban fringe, urban roads without footpaths, and rural sealed roads where there is an on-road section of the Great Taste Trail cycleway – one of the country’s Great Rides.
The committee’s submission on the plan explicitly called for those inconsistencies to be accommodated because speed reductions on those roads “make sense”.
Tasman councillor Jo Ellis expressed concern that those inconsistencies would be rejected because they had been supported by the community and “make sense”.
“There’s a reason that each one has been selected,” she said. “We’ve chosen roads with communities that actually asked for these [speed limit
Cameras to count cars
Tasman District Council are changing the technology used to count vehicles on various roads. Previously they used rubber tubes stretched across roads and cycle lanes to monitor usage. However, their contractor has now started using cameras to count vehicle movements. The devices are installed for set periods alongside roads to electronically count vehicle movements. This safer and more reliable technology will provide a more accurate count of vehicles. A spokesperson says the new devices are not being used for parking enforcement or speed management.
reductions] to happen.”
Speed limit changes on those roads inconsistent with the guidance currently laid out in the Government’s draft rule will only be abandoned by the councils if the finalised rule doesn’t accommodate them, and if those changes are unable to achieve the approval of the Director of Land Transport. The first speed limit changes are expected to be implemented from January 2025, with the changes around the region’s schools being completed by May 2026.
Tasman councillor Jo Ellis was concerned that some speed limit reductions that ‘make sense’ and were supported by the community would be rejected by the Government. Photo: Max Frethey.
Tasman District Council’s audit fees are set to climb to $332,000 in 2025. Photo: Waimea Weekly.
‘Eye-watering’:
Tasman’s audit fees jump $100k in two years
MAX FRETHEY
Local Democracy Reporter
Tasman’s audit fees have come under scrutiny as the council is slated to pay $100,000 more in 2025 than it did two years prior.
Audit New Zealand undertakes the auditing of Tasman District Council’s annual reports.
In 2023, the council’s audit cost $237,000.
This year, that fee has jumped to $273,000 and is forecast to climb yet again in 2025 to a proposed $332,000 - almost a 40 per cent increase from 2023.
“That is an astronomical amount of money,” councillor Christeen Mackenzie said when presented with the figures at Wednesday’s meeting of the council’s Audit and Risk Committee.
“As a chartered accountant myself, I totally understand all the effort required around the financial statements, but I think I’ve got a big question about whether we’re taking a sensible risk-based approach to the audit of the non-financial performance of the council.”
She wanted reassurance that the council was getting “value for money”, and compared the audit fee hike with the council’s rates increase which has been confirmed at 11.1 per cent.
“How is that comparable to this eye-watering increase in audit fees?”
Stephen Walker, Audit New Zealand’s executive director, who was present at the meeting, said the organisation did take a risk-based approach to its auditing.
“What we’ve identified are those areas where we believe there is a level of risk, a level of interest within the community, and a level of significant level of resource applied to those,” he said.
“The real value in what we do is to be there to provide a degree of independent assurance to your community.”
However, Stephen did acknowl-
edge that Audit New Zealand was playing “catch-up” with its fees.
“We are a cost recovery business and, in fairness, we have not been fully recovering costs of audit fees in the local government sector.”
He added that the organisation was trying to be “reasonable” with how the increases were phased.
Stephen had spoken with Mayor Tim King, chief executive Leonie Rae, and the Audit and Risk Committee’s two independent members to discuss the transition to higher fees, and committed to being more transparent about the costs involved in auditing.
Independent committee chair Graham Naylor was confident the council and Audit New Zealand have “turned a page” for the auditing process this year.
He pointed to Audit New Zealand’s highlighting of key technical issues early on in this year’s auditing process which was “a huge step forward from what we had before”.
“We used to have the issues being identified very late in the audit process, when it was very hard to then resolve them expeditiously. I think that that’s going to be a big change in things going forward.”
The committee’s second independent member Graeme McGlinn agreed, saying he had “full confidence” in the current auditing team.
“We’re seeing improvements already.” He added that he had raised the issue of Audit New Zealand’s efficiency compared to private sector auditors with the Office of the Auditor-General (OAG).
“That’s something they’ve undertaken to start looking at and trying to find some benchmarking.”
Audit New Zealand is Tasman District Council’s audit as appointed under legislation.
Ski Sisters skating on ice
ANNE HARDIE
When the temperature drops and the water freezes, two entrepreneurial teenage sisters are putting on their business hats and hiring out skates at St Arnaud’s natural skating pond.
Nelson College for Girls students
Kaitlyn and Emma Robinson, aged 16 and 13, bought the skatehire business at the start of winter – which amounted to 70 pairs of skates and as luck would have it, they have had the temperatures drop enough to freeze the pond and entice skaters.
As if a skate-hire business was not enough for these teenagers, they also spend every weekend through the ski season working at Rainbow Ski Area – Kaitlyn as a ski instructor and Emma in rentals.
But wait, it doesn’t stop there.
The industrious Nelson pair also spend their evenings after school or holiday jobs in the workshop where they run a tune, wax and edge service for skiers and snowboarders.
The frozen pond is the big excitement this year though, not just because it’s their first year with the skate-hire business, but be-
cause it’s just the luck of the draw whether it freezes over each year, or not.
“We were really lucky the pond froze the first week of the holidays,” Kaitlyn says.
“We’ve pretty much been sold out every hour, every day. People are coming from all over and getting
skates.
“Sometimes we’ve had to turn people away and tell them to come back in an hour.
The sisters operate the skate hire business from the garage of the family bach at St Arnaud and, being the ski season, they spend a lot of time there.
The pair’s mother, Rachel Robinson, says the girls purchased the 70 pairs of skates for the skate-hire business using money they earnt last year with their ski workshop.
“They work together and spend hours in the garage at night with their music going and people coming and going with skis.
“They’ve spent hours cleaning up the old skates and to their huge advantage, the pond froze.”
The pond sits on Department of Conservation land and Rachel says it’s there for everybody to enjoy.
The sisters simply supply the skates to those who need them, and the family has run a scraper over the ice to improve skating. She says there’s no danger of falling through the ice as it is a very shallow pond, which is why it freezes over.
“We come home from school and crack down to skis – it keeps us out of trouble!”
“It’s a sizeable pond so you can have a really good skate around and you have the mountains in the background and forest. That’s why people like it, because it is so natural.” Kaitlyn says neither sister could run their business operations without the other and “we just get on really well and have a good laugh”.
How often it will freeze over this winter is anybody’s guess, but keen skaters can contact the Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre for an update on the ice.
Big win ahead of Olympic debut
JACK MALCOLM
Soon-to-be Olympic cyclist
Niamh Fisher-Black is in the perfect place to capitalise as she works towards the Paris games.
The 23-year-old won the third stage of the Giro d’Italia Women’s tour of Italy and earned third place on the podium of the points classification alongside her SD Worx teammate, Lotte Kopecky, who won.
“I was feeling [I] was in a good position, and I knew I needed to find the right moment,” Niamh said in a post-race interview.
Having finished 10th in the general classification standings after eight stages, the result will be a boost of confidence ahead of the winner-takes-all format of the Olympics.
The former U23 road race World Champion has been racking up impressive results all season, with winning the Giro d’Italia stage the highlight to date.
The result sees her in the mix as a medal hopeful, with the Olympic road race seeing a similar course and just one race to decide it all.
Niamh’s win came on a 113km course with 1100 metres of ascent, while the Paris course will see her tackle 158km of racing and 1700 metres of ascent.
Having been her team’s lead rider in the 2023 edition of the Giro d’Italia, Niamh has been methodically working her way up the rankings. In 2022, she won the U23 World Championship after paying her own way to compete in the event when Cycling New Zealand could not meet the costs.
She has also won Sport Tasman’s Sportswoman of the
Year for two years running. Niamh is part of a crop of local cyclists who have all come through the system together and are achieving on the highest levels.
Along with her brother Finn, who was named a reserve for road cycling alongside local George Bennett, the New Zealand team also includes locals Shaane Fulton and Keegan Hornblow as part of the track team.
Niamh will be in action on 5 August, with racing starting from midnight and broadcast live on Sky Sport.
Ski Sisters Kaitlyn, 16, left, and Emma Robinson, 13, own a skate-hire business at St Arnaud. Photo: Supplied.
Niamh FisherBlack celebrates as she crosses the line in first place in the third stage of the Giro d’Italia, having won by six seconds on the gruelling stage.
Photo: Supplied.
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Kahurangi crowned Tasman Trophy champs
FROM PAGE 1
against taking the points on the stroke of half time.
Captain Braden Stewart dotting the ball down from a pick-andgo after four penalties inside the Kahurangi 22.
The start of the second half saw Kahurangi retake the lead, capitalising on a struggling Central lineout.
Turning the ball over, halfback Louie Chapman put a clever box kick in behind the line that bounced and bobbled and Central were never able to clean up.
Through the mess, prop Shunsuke Sakamoto snatched the ball and dived over the line in a defin-
ing moment for the game.
While Central scored again, with captain Quentin MacDonald at the back of the maul after a penalty kick for the corner, it was Kahurangi’s day.
Another fantastic box kick from Louie saw the ball stop on a dime for the flying Willie Havili to snatch the ball out of the air as he soared above Quentin.
With the work not over, Willie had to reach out at full stretch to dot the ball down for a self-converted try to put their lead out to eight points.
As the momentum turned, Kahurangi continued to mount the pressure with the Central scrum starting to disintegrate.
Despite the adversity, they fought to the final whistle but they weren’t able to put any more points on the board.
Central captain Braden Stewart says they made too many mistakes to come away winners for the third year running.
“A lot of our own mistakes piled up and Kahurangi are a good side. They pounced on a few of our mistakes.
“I’m still proud of my boys, we’ll be back.”
Kahurangi’s captain, Josh Te Hira, was lost for words after the win, saying it’s been years in the
Motueka Golf Club Results
Ladies Tuesday, 9 July
18 hole Canadian Foursomes
1st Kerry McConchie and Jenny Van Herden 74.8
2nd Jocelyn Thomson and Yvonne Stevenson 75.8
9 Hole Stableford
1st Carolyn Bollard 18
2nd Anne Lawrence 18 3rd Lorraine Moorhead 18
Mens Veterans Wednesday, 10 July
1st
2nd
Pah
Ladies Sandra Ilton Men Keith Dowie
Haig Cup
Winner Peter Tudberry Runner-up Graham Shaw
Flight Winner Peter Johnson Flight Runner-Up Keith Dowie
making.
“I can’t describe whether I’m stoked or relieved.
“The boys deserve this one. That whole 80 minutes, all the boys’ bodies were on the line playing for each other.”
Having lost to Central to kick off their season, he says it’s incredible to see how the team turned it around this year.
“From going to not having the numbers at training [then] to
today, look how far we’ve come. “I’m a bit speechless, really. The rugby gods looked down on us today.”
Josh wanted to thank everyone who had got behind the team this season, with a special mention for their partners.
“The wives and girlfriends picking up the extra slack. It’s not just Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, it takes over our lives for the whole 14 weeks.”
Motueka Bowling Club Results
Motueka Bowling Club held a Progressive Triples Tournament on 11/07/24. It was great to see a full green and turnout on a cold frosty morning.
Abe van Wyk
Willie Havili soars above Quentin MacDonald on his way to scoring the try of the game in Kahurangi’s finals win over Central. Photo: Chris Symes/Shuttersport.
Community Notices
MONDAY
MOTUEKA SPINNERS AND KNITTERS. Meeting 22 Jul, 9.3012, Community rooms Decks reserve, all welcome. Ph: Dsvina 0226702281 for enq.
MOTUEKA ELYSIUM Mon, 9.30am, Muses Café. For Widows and Widowers. Join us for coffee and chat, friendship, and support. Ph: Carol 035285027.
WOULD YOU LIKE A BIKE? Bike Hub Nelson accepts donations of good used bikes, fixes them up and gives them away for a small koha. 142 Saxton Rd. Mon, 5.30-7pm. For other opening times and a map e: bikehubnelson@gmail.com.
MOTUEKA BETTER BREATHERS, Mon, 11.30am, Motueka Recreation Gym ‘Functional Fitness Room’, Old Wharf Rd. A 60-minute series of guided exercises done seated or standing, specifically designed to help those with breathing difficulties. Ph: Jess 0275467675.
MOTUEKA HIGHLAND PIPE BAND, Mon, 7pm. Band is located beside Motueka Recreation Centre. Promoting Scottish tradition and culture. We look forward to your participation. More info: Ph: 027284 8361.
MAPUA FRIENDSHIP CLUB. Indoor bowls, 1st & 3rd Mon. Mapua Bowling Club rooms. 2pm, Bring a plate of afternoon tea. Lots of laughs. Ph: Val 035403685.
TUESDAY
MOCKINGBIRDS MUSIC GROUP, Tues, 2-3.30pm, Senior Net, Pah St. If you enjoy some fun singing/playing music, come along with your instrument, we’d love you to join us. Beginners very welcome. Ph: Sue 02102416155.
NEW '500' CARD GAMES, Tues, 1-3pm, the over 50s Hub, Pah street, Motueka. Fun, friendship, CARDS & cuppa. Everyone welcome. Info Ph: Keith 0274516422.
HOPE TENNIS CLUB SOCIAL TENNIS, Every Tues, 9.30am, Hope Tennis Courts, Hope Domain. All abilities most welcome. Queries Ph: 0211729257.
MOTUEKA BRASS, Tues Evenings. Discover your musical talent with us! Join our lively brass band for an unforgettable experience To join Ph: 021728168 or come along.
YOGA. If you have or have had cancer, we offer restorative yoga classes. Tues, 12.30pm. 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. 3050 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.
THURSDAY
MEDITATION, Weekly meditation sessions open to all. Thurs, 12.15-12.45pm, Te Noninga Kumu - Motueka Library. During term time. No registration needed. Just come along. Info: Ph: Louise 0278789240.
NELSON BAYS HARMONY CHORUS, (women’s choir), is seeking new members to join our happy group. Thurs evenings, Club Waimea, Richmond. Ph: Carole 0274360910.
MOTUEKA 50+ WALKING GROUP Thurs. More info Ph: 0212640403 e: secretary50pluswalkers@gmail.com, or www. motueka50pluswalkers.org.nz.
RUMMIKUB Thurs, 1-4pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Club, 10
DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY
50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: office@topsouthmedia.co.nz
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: Allan 0279711100 or www.seniornetmotueka.org.nz.
FRIDAY
MOTUEKA REBUS CLUB next meeting, Fri, 19 Jun, 10am, Bandrooms. Great speakers, good fellowship. All welcome. Ph: John 0274082206.
SENIORNET MOTUEKA, The Genealogy Interest Group meets 2nd Fri, 2pm. Ph: Allan 0279711100.
SATURDAY / SUNDAY
WAIMEA HARRIERS, Sat, 13 Jul, 1.20pm, briefing 2pm, meet at Thorp Bush Res, Woodlands Ave entrance, Motueka. Reg from 1.20, briefing 2pm. Welcome all runners and walkers to join us for the first Sprig + Fern 10k race. waimeaharriers.nz for info. JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Sat, 10-12pm, Motueka Library. Free services, including copy certification and witnessing signatures are available.
NELSON BRANCH OF ROYAL NZ AIRFORCE ASSOCIATION Meet 2nd Sat each month, 12pm, Club Waimea, Richmond,
Phil’s Restaurant. Interesting speakers, raffles and members interested in Aviation Ph: Trever Squires 039706644 or John Bethwaite 035476634. Cost of meal $25
GENERAL GROUPS
RADIO CONTROL SAILING Wed and Sun, 1pm onwards, Best Island. Weather permitting. IOMs and Dragon Force etc. New members welcome. Info Ph: Peter 0275443923.
MOTUEKA DISTRICT TOY LIBRARY, Tues, and Thurs, 9-11am, and Sat, 10-12pm, 44 Pah St. Annual membership $30. Hundreds of toys for all ages.
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.
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.
COMMUNITY HARAKEKE WEAVING project by Motueka Art Council is on now at the Library daily till Christmas, everyone can contribute as we weave a tree of putiputi. Special sessions for beginners wanting to learn. Free event.
NELSON RAILWAY. For updates and info for train and railcar runnings, follow us on Facebook or our website. Updated weekly. Or Ph: Robynne 0273419787.
GREYPOWER MOTUEKA welcomes visitors at the Community House office, Decks Reserve on Wallace St. for ongoing service requests. Discount provider list available. Ph: 035289076 or e: greypowermot@gmail.com.
INDOOR BOWLS, Mon & Wed, 1.15-3pm, Motueka Over 50s Hub, 10 Pah St. All abilities welcome. Ph: Jude 0273244226.
RIWAKA CROQUET CLUB, do you and a group of friends/ family/workmates want to spend a fun few hours learning to play croquet? You need a minimum of 8 players, $10 each, all equipment provided and someone from our club to help you learn the game. Full access to the clubhouse kitchen. For info Ph: 0276308910.
SENIORNET MOTUEKA runs a wide variety of interest groups for computers, laptops, tablets and phones in Apple, Windows,
Android & iOS. Ph: Allan on 027 971 1100 or go to www.seniornetmotueka.org.nz
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 TRAMPING CLUB, A diversity of weekend day walks and multi-day trips suitable for a range of fitness levels. Visit www.motuekatrampingclub.org to learn more about your local Club, or e: membership.motuekatc@gmail.com for info on joining.
RED CROSS MOTUEKA BRANCH Fundraising shop, open Mon – Fri, 10-2pm. Community House, Decks Reserve. We sell clothing, household linen and books. Donations of sellable goods are appreciated.
SURVIVORS AND THRIVERS GROUP, if you have or have had cancer, or supported someone else, come and connect. Ph: Maureen 5287669.
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.
MOTUEKA TENNIS CLUB. INC. Social Tennis, Tues & Thurs, 9.30am, Sun, 2pm. Courts behind the Memorial Hall Pah St. Racquets available to borrow for new Members. All welcome. GATEWAY TO YOUR WELLBEING, Wellbeing is important for all of us to thrive. The shed is a safe place to meet new people in a supportive and caring environment. We can connect you with other agencies for the right support needed. More info Ph: 0279214074, E: admin@ght.co.nz or pop in 24a Tudor St, Motueka.
MOTUEKA DISTRICT BRASS Do you want to be part of a fun, social and competitive band, who make players welcome? e: motueka.brass@gmail.com or Ph: 021728168 MOTUEKA NEWCOMERS New to Motueka? We’re a social group, mostly retired (50+) who meet regularly and welcome newcomers. More info Ph: Jana 035284355.
Community notices are free to community groups, schools, churches, gold coin donation events and fundraising only. For classified ads and public notices please call
528
2088. Due to the popularity of this column, while every effort will be made, inclusion cannot be guaranteed for free ads.
CLASSIFIEDS
NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Notice is hereby given in accordance with clause 12.8 of the Network Tasman Trust Deed that a public meeting will be held at Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre, Main Road Stoke, Stoke at 2.30pm on Friday, 26 July 2024.
Business:
1. To receive Trustees’ report on the operations of the Trust for the year ended 31 March 2024 and to receive the Financial Statements for that period.
2. To receive a report on the operations of Network Tasman Limited for the year ended 31 March 2024 and the Company’s Financial Statements for that period.
3. To comment on the Company’s compliance with its Statement of Corporate Intent and receive comment from the public.
4. To appoint an Auditor for the 2024/2025 year.
The Annual Report is available by contacting the Trust Administrator – admin@networktasmantrust. org.nz or phoning 0800 82 78 78. You can also view this on our website networktasman.co.nz/trustannual-reports/ from 19 July 2024. Hard copies will also be available at the meeting for viewing.
G Davis CHAIRPERSON
Bring your friends for a fun evening. Tuesday 23rd July at 7pm Motueka RSA. All proceeds for Inner Wheel Group. $3 entry. 6 members per team. Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. Great raffle prizes. Meals and bar available.
MISSING SINCE 1st JULY
Escaped outdoors while getting used to new area. Male, Ginger tabby, with white chin, no other distinct markings. No collar. Desexed and microchipped, medium size, 3yo. Resides on Clay st, towards York st corner. Loves cat treats. Owner desperate for any information. RESPONDS TO ‘PUDDY’, OR ‘PUDPUD’.
Endurance legends take on the untamed Yukon
Adventure racing legend Nathan Fa’avae has embarked on one of his toughest experiences yet.
Last week he and Sophie Hart set out to tackle the 2024 Yukon1000, one of the world’s toughest endurance challenges, with a goal of breaking the race record.
The self-supported race will see the pair, racing under Team Avaya, take on 1000 miles of paddling up the Yukon River from Canada to Alaska.
With 6000 teams applying to compete, Nathan and Sophie are just one of 30 to be accepted to take on the daunting challenge.
“Participants must be self-supported for up to 10 days, carrying all their food, gear, and camping equipment since stopping for resupply is not allowed,” says Nathan.
But Avaya are hoping to finish the paddle in about half that time, with the current record standing at 5 days, 11 hours, and 48 minutes.
“We understand it will require a perfect race under ideal conditions, something we won’t know until we’re paddling on the river.
“Factors like river flow and extreme winds can greatly affect our time, and natural events like forest fires can obscure visibility with smoke.
Despite paddling into the Arctic circle, Nathan Fa’avae and Sophie Hart expect temperatures to be in the mid twenties and a hospitable eight degrees at night. Photo: Supplied.
“While many variables are beyond our control, our focus remains on achieving our best performance.
“I expect there will be teams stronger than us in terms of raw power, but I think our experience and teamwork will give us an advantage.”
The pair are confident in their
chances, having raced together for the past 14 years.
Nathan says they’d been interested in racing the Yukon1000 since hearing about it a decade ago, but commitments to adventure racing kept it on the backburner.
But after last year’s GODZone, Nathan decided to step away from the sport and wanted to
“shake things up”.
“I decided I’d had my fill of Adventure Racing, and most of our team were content to step back to some extent.
“Driving home from that race in March 2023, Sophie brought up the idea of the Yukon1000. We figured we might as well apply and see what happens.”
The pair got stuck right into training, but with Nathan based in Tasman Bay and Sophie in the Marlborough Sounds it was predominately individual.
Nathan estimates he’s averaged between 100-200 kilometres a week of paddling since November, sometimes pushing upwards of 300km.
He’s also active in various outdoor activities, including trail running, tramping, and mountainbiking.
The pair utilised the National Surfski Ocean Paddling Series as part of their training, with highlights including winning the National Championships, King and Queen of the Harbour, Portage Race, Queen and King of the Bay, South Island Championships, and the Nelson Surfski Summer Series.
“We’ve also managed to join forces for around half a dozen multiday sea kayaking trips, primarily in the outer Sounds and Cook Strait areas, covering distances of 50-90km per day.”
At time of print on Tuesday, Team Avaya were tracking an estimated finish time of 5 days, 13 hours and 18 minutes.
To keep up to date with Nathan and Team Avaya, race updates can be found at yukon1000.org.
