Nelson Weekly - 18 January 2023

Backyard chicken boom

KATE RUSSELL

A mum living in a rental property in Victory is proving that keeping backyard chickens in the city is not as hard as you think.

Amid a nationwide egg shortage, Janelle Patterson has two healthy and happy free-range chickens called Rosie and Blossom. She has had them since mid-2021 and they provide her family with two

eggs a day.

“They also help cut down on rubbish as they eat our food scraps,” she says.

According to Trade Me, there were over 1,600 searches for

chickens, coops, and feed in the Nelson region during the first two weeks of January. This marks a 218 per cent year-on-year increase when compared with the same period in 2022.

Janelle’s advice to anyone thinking about getting chickens is to save some money to build a decent enclosure.

PAGE 2

Richmond Park Showgrounds was buzzing with activity as thousands of spectators enjoyed the Nelson Harness Races Summer Festival on Friday and Sunday. Alongside all of the fashion and festivities of a weekend at the races, the Diamond Racing stable dominated on track, with Mighty Looee driven by John Dunn taking out both the Nelson Pine Industries Nelson Cup (handicap pace) on Friday and Nelson Pine Industries Nelson Classic (mobile pace) on Sunday. Photo: Evan Barnes/Shuttersport.

Sara Hollyman sara@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Kate Russell kate@nelsonweekly.co.nz Jack Malcolm jack@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Lauren Rameka-iti lauren@nelsonweekly.co.nz

Reuben Dudley reuben@nelsonweekly.co.nz

Egg shortage prompts backyard chicken boom

FROM PAGE 1

“I have an awesome landlord.

I got my enclosure materials from Bunnings and put it together myself, with a little help from my daughter. You need to give them enough room, so you don’t stress them out.”

Janelle also wanted to get chickens to teach her children where eggs come from.

“My son Jermaine loves collecting their eggs each day.”

As well as Rosie and Blossom, Janelle has purchased eight fertilised chicken eggs. If they hatch, she will add two to her brood and rehome the others and any males. Her plans were slightly scrambled though when Dick Smith accidentally sent her an egg cooker instead of the egg incubator she purchased online. She is now

keeping them warm with blankets and hot water bottles.

Nationwide, Trade Me says interest in online auctions for chickens has more than doubled during the nationwide egg shortage. A ban on battery-caged hens, announced back in 2012, came into effect at the end of last year leaving supermarket shelves bare with purchasing limits in place. More than 75 per cent of chicken farmers have had to change their farming methods or their career because of the ban.

But, if you are thinking of getting chickens, the SPCA is warning people to do their research first. Chickens need a safe and enriching environment including shelter, nest boxes, a dust bathing area, and somewhere they can exercise, scratch and forage.

Kieran Byrne

Goldy Dogra

Shaz Chadwick

Lisa Canton

Belinda Clark

Janelle Patterson and her daughter Cassidy, 11, with their chickens Rosie and Blossom. Photo: Kate Russell.

Precious items stolen from baby’s grave

KATE RUSSELL

When Sierra Clement went to visit her daughter’s grave at the Marsden Valley Cemetery last week, she was shocked to find that two precious items had been taken from it.

Pixie was stillborn at 33 weeks on 6 February 2021.

Sierra and Pixie’s dad Rory had decided to leave a fishhook greenstone carving and a hand-sized greenstone on her grave last November to honour their daughter. But now they are missing.

“It is something I never thought would happen - it’s her spot and anything that goes there should stay there,”

Sierra says.

“I honestly didn’t believe I would ever have to think about them being taken. Now, it feels empty there without her things, they have become part of her space.”

Sierra said her initial reaction was disbelief.

“We looked for them, and when we couldn’t find them I thought maybe they had been taken, but I didn’t really want to believe it.”

Rory did some detective work and contacted the head mower at Nelmac to see if they had removed them before mowing. However, they were told that the cemetery’s sexton personally goes around and removes

any precious items from graves before mowing occurs. This was not the case for Pixie’s things.

Sierra has worked out that the theft would have occurred between 1 - 4 January and is asking the public to keep an eye out for them.

“I hope that someone has a conscience and brings them back,” she says.

“We don’t think they are going to be returned but I’d love to go up there and see that they have come back.”

The greenstone, which is on a black plaited wax thread, was given to Rory after Pixie’s passing. Sierra was given one, too.

“There came a time when Rory felt that his should be there with her.

“Then, the greenstone, he spent time sanding back and polishing - it was a big process for him, all heart and soul,” Sierra says. “It’s worthless to someone else but for us it’s invaluable, we’re not going to get our daughter back.”

Sierra hopes her story will not only see the return of the items but also raise awareness of stillbirths.

“For a family who has had to go through not only a loss but the loss of a child, this is just another blow we don’t need to experience.”

Sierra Clement is heartbroken after precious items were stolen from her stillborn daughter’s grave. Photo: Kate Russell.

Drink drivers, speeders, but road users generally well-behaved

Despite some high-speeds and a few highly intoxicated drivers, police say overall drivers around the region were well-behaved over the holiday period.

Acting inspector acting road policing manager Tasman, Hamish Chapman says between 21 December and 7 January, one person was caught driving with a breath alcohol limit more than five times the legal limit.

Hamish says the driver blew a reading of 1342mg/l of breath. The legal limit is 250. Another 10 were found to be driving over the legal limit.

“Generally, across the board, driver behaviour over Christmas and New Year has been very good, but as always, the minority are letting the majority down which then causes risk,” Hamish says.

He says police ran a number of operations over the holiday period targeting alcohol, use of seatbelts and cellphone use.

“Both Bay Dreams and UB40 festivals were really good, we didn’t get any drink drivers which is a fantastic result, we’re really proud of the drivers.”

More than 4000 drivers were breath tested over the 18-day period.

Hamish says they also ran an operation near Murchison targeting speeding drivers which saw many heading away on holiday and those returning home.

“We issued a number of tickets for speeding with one or two high speeds being 138kmh and 133kmh in a 100kmh zone and one driving 90kmh in a 50kmh zone.

He says that person would have instantly lost their licence for 28 days and had their vehicle impounded.

“If things happen at that speed there’s no recovery and their reaction time is drastically reduced for

both them and other road users.”

Hamish says police were also disappointed in the number of people on cellphones.

Reasons for using a cellphone while driving ranged from using Google maps, ‘my mum called me’, changing music on spotify or having to send a text.

“The amount of drivers using Google maps while driving when they had a passenger in the seat next to them was astounding,” Hamish says. “When they were asked why the passenger wasn’t doing it, it was like a lightbulb moment.

“At the end of the day they’re driving a motor vehicle and using a device. That part was really disappointing.”

Hamish says, while there were no fatalities in the region during the holiday period, there was a serious crash in Appleby that left the rider with serious injuries.

“What I can say on that is make sure you’re wearing a full-faced helmet.”

Hamish wanted to issue a final safety warning to drivers who are towing.

“Make sure you check the vehicle and tow bar is rated for the load it’s towing.

“If you’re towing a heavy load and your vehicle can’t stop….”

He says those towing boats in particular have caused some issues, but cautions everyone to check the towing weight and the rating for both the vehicle and tow ball for both braked and unbraked trailers.

“Finally, there are still a lot of people on holiday, Tasman’s an attractive region to come to.

“Plan your journey and have a decent rest.

“You want to get there and enjoy your holiday. Be alert to other road users.”

100 hours spent tidying Tāhunanui cycleway

MAX FRETHEY, Local Democracy Reporter

Alastair Cotterill has a deep affection for Tāhunanui and decided to clean the Parkers Cove-Tāhunanui Reserve cycleway after seeing the poor state it was in while he contracted for the Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park which adjoins the path.

“I’ve been in this area for 30 years,” he says. “I’ve been brought up that you give a bit back to the community.”

“I started off and I just thought I’d see what I could do,” he says. But Alastair soon decided to clean it all up and set himself a goal: to reveal the painted white lines that marked the edge of the paved path along its entire 500-metre length before Christmas.

Though he didn’t quite get there in time, Alastair has continued to work at clearing the path, spending upwards of 100

hours of his own time cutting back weeds and clearing sand.

He did it all manually, with just a shovel, a pair of garden shears and his wheelbarrow, and cleared more than 30 rubbish bags-worth of vegetation, with the sand being put back onto the beach.

“I think I’ve made a difference.”

Alastair says he met many people while he was working who thanked him for his work, including a woman in a wheelchair.

“She came down here; it was her recreation. But she could only get to that corner [just a few dozen metres from the carpark],” he says. “It just about brought tears to my eyes when she said her quality of life had changed because of what I’ve done.”

Alastair thought the state of the path had reflected poorly on Nelson.

“This was an embarrassment,” he says. “You imagine that

we’ve got all these tourists here, and they’ve seen this. What would they think of Nelson?”

Nelson City Council’s manager for parks and facilities, Rosie Bartlett, thanked Alastair and other members of the community who “help make our public spaces look great.”

She acknowledged that it was council’s job to maintain paths like the Parkers Cove-Tāhunanui Reserve cycleway and says council was working with contractors to improve their maintenance.

Rosie added that a proposal has been included in council’s Annual Plan process to increase the level of maintenance in the Tāhunanui Beach Reserve.

“It’s important our shared spaces remain safe, accessible, and tidy for all of the community to enjoy and take pride in.”

Alastair Cotterill tidied up the 500-metre-long stretch of paved cycleway by hand. Photo: Max Frethey.

181-year-old spelling mistake causing a stir

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

A spelling mistake made more than 180 years ago is now causing a stir, with many in the community now pushing for a Nelson street’s name change.

Toi Toi’s Emano Street was named after Te Manu, the Ngāti Tama chief of Wakapuaka. The name, then recorded as E Manu, was approved by Nelson Whakatū’s street naming committee in 1842 but got altered to Emano somewhere along the way.

This mistake has already been righted once before in 2018 when Emano East Reserve was officially renamed to Te Manu Reserve.

Moetu Tuuta (Ngāti Tama, Ngāti Mutunga, Te Āti Awa, Ngāti Rārua) is one of Te Manu’s direct descendants and lives just around the corner from Emano Street.

“It’s going to give me a nice warm feeling [if the street is renamed],” Moetu says. “How would you feel if it was your family and the name had been wrong for all these years?”

He added he’s seen a lot of support for the change and doesn’t think renaming the street would be a significant adjustment.

“It’s just a little spelling mistake.”

Te Manu was born Wī Kātene

Te Pūoho and earned his nickname Te Manu, meaning ‘The Bird,’ from his renowned singing voice.

He was the son of Te Pūoho ki te Rangi, Ngāti Tama ariki (paramount chief) and warrior, and the father of Hūria Mātenga who was involved in the rescue of the crew of the shipwrecked Delaware.

Archdeacon Harvey Ruru (Ngāti Tama, Te Ātiawa, Ngāti Toa Rangatira Manawhenua Te Tau Ihu) has lived on Emano Street since 1991 and is also in support of correcting the name.

“Emano doesn’t recognise the mana or heritage of the chief it was named after,” he says.

By correcting the street name, Harvey thought Nelson City Council would help “ensure the truthful heritage significance of our city is upheld.”

Some Victory Primary School students also think the name should be fixed.

Miranda and Regan Joass are the kaiako for the school’s Whānau Koromiko class.

Inspired by the television show ‘Get the Name Right’ which explores the origins of place names around the motu, they taught the class about some local Māori place names.

When their students learned that Emano was a misspelling of Te Manu, they resolved to create a solution.

“They know that Emano is not the right name, they wanted to right that wrong,” says Miranda (Te Ātiawa).

The class created a cardboard sign that read ‘Te Ara o Te Manu’ (the Lane of Te Manu) and took a trip down to the street where the kids attached it to the signpost.

Miranda and Regan’s son Kupa, 6, is in their class and was one of the students to put the sign up. The reason he supported the correction was straightforward: “it’s not the right name.”

Regan (Ngāi Takoto) says the connection Māori have with their names was important and that the name Emano didn’t properly recognise Te Manu.

“How is that honouring him?”

NCC Acting group manager environmental management, Dennis Bush-King confirmed that council has received a request to change the name of Emano Street to Te Manu Street.

“Our newly appointed development and naming advisor will be working through the process of consultation, including consulting with iwi,” he says.

Driver didn’t know medication left him driving on the wrong side of the road

TRACY NEAL

Robert Annett didn’t realise the mix of medications he was on had impaired his driving to the degree it left him driving at speed on the wrong side of the road. This was unlike the six previous times when he’d been caught driving drunk because he was unaware of the effect of the medication, the Nelson District Court heard. Annett admitted a charge on Monday of driving while impaired last August. The court heard that on August 2 Annett

come to the attention of the police on three occasions within a short space of time that day. Judge Tony Zohrab said it was lucky no accident had resulted from Annett’s driving, and that most New Zealanders managed to drive their whole lives without a single drink-drive offence. Annett was disqualified from driving for 12 months, which meant he’d have to re-sit his licence. He was also sentenced to 140 hours of community work, 12 months’ supervision and ordered to undergo an alcohol and drug assessment.

Moetu Tuuta would like to see Emano Street renamed to properly honour his direct ancestor Te Manu whom the street was named after. Photo: Max Frethey. Victory Primary School students Ardie Hart, 5, and Kupa Joass, 6, put up a sign which more accurately honours Te Manu. Photo: Supplied.

had

Engineer ‘lost his cool’ and attacked pilot -

In the world of aircraft operators, it was an offence as serious as it gets. Yet the senior aircraft engineer who

a pilot in a restricted operating zone avoided being prosecuted by the police, who instead referred him to a community panel where he had to complete an anger management course. That could have easily been the end of the matter. However, the victim, unhappy with the lack of justice, complained to the Civil Aviation Authority. It took nearly a year before Lawrence McCann ended up before the courts, where he was eventually held accountable.

The figure Lawrence McCann cut in court was not one you might expect to climb onto an aeroplane and punch a pilot in the head.

Dressed casually in a well-cut sports shirt, McCann bore the hallmarks of an industry highflyer.

The well-regarded base manager for aviation engineering firm Fieldair, whose career has taken him around the world, barely flinched as the public heard for the first time what he’d done 18 months earlier.

On May 4, 2021, he “lost his cool” after the repeated comings and goings of the small but powerful twin-engine Cessna outside a hangar at Nelson Airport where an engineering crew was working.

With its propellers spinning at full throttle, McCann jumped on the wing of the Cessna, pulled the pilot’s hatch fully open, grabbed the pilot with both hands and pushed him across the cabin while swearing and yelling, “you f*****g stupid moron, you f*****g c***.”

He then punched the pilot in the head several times, knocking off his audio headset and glasses, and leaving him with grazes to his face.

He was also hit around the shoulder and chest.

The assault was witnessed by the camera operator seated behind the pilot of the Cessna, which was damaged during the assault. McCann’s reasons for doing so, he would argue, were around safety.

His team was working on a maintenance contract on a Jetstream passenger aircraft elevated on jacks inside a hangar.

The Cessna, operated by an aerial survey company, shared space in the Originair hangar, but at the time it was parked outside, having come and gone a few times

already that day.

By mid-afternoon, and with the tail of the Jetstream sticking out the door and taking the full blast of air from the Cessna’s spinning propellers as it prepared to leave on another flight, McCann snapped when his crew had to stop work once more.

The Jetstream was said to have swayed so much from the Cessna’s prop wash that the engineering crew feared it would tip over.

Pilots spoken to by NZME say the Cessna pilot should have known better – you don’t run your engines at full revs close to an aircraft up on supports.

On May 17, a couple of weeks after the attack, McCann was arrested for assault, and on the same day, he was referred by the police to Te Pae Oranga Iwi Community Panel (TPO).

Police figures provided to NZME show he was one of 332 offenders from the Tasman police district referred to one of the panels in 2021, and one of 260 nationwide referred that year under the offence code of common assault

(manually).

Te Pae Oranga, previously known as Community Justice Panels, have been in place since 2013, before being gifted the name Te Pae Oranga in 2018.

They are described as a “supported resolution process for low-level offenders focusing on education, prevention and accountability”.

The panels are made up of three people from the community and are designed to apply a more Māori framework to the community justice panel approach.

Anyone from any ethnicity and background can be referred to Te Pae Oranga.

The referral process is quite detailed, and among the list of things the police must consider is whether it is in the public interest to prosecute.

The police also say a “referral process” can start on the same day as an offence.

No charging document was lodged with the court because the police were satisfied on the day of his arrest that McCann met the

criteria for panel referral, information received under the Official Information Act shows.

But the victim was unhappy with the path taken.

He lodged a complaint with the CAA and, after a nearly year-long investigation, it charged McCann with endangerment.

Independent aviation industry commentator Irene King said referring McCann to an iwi panel instead of prosecuting him through the courts was “very odd”, given how serious the incident was.

King said caution was needed when operating aircraft around hangars.

“They can blow people over and blow bits and pieces of things all over the place.”

King understands there’s a reasonable history to the lead-up to what happened, and that the engineers had expressed frustration about what was going on.

“This wasn’t a big hangar, and the engineers were doing some pretty intensive work in there.”

But it didn’t excuse McCann’s ac-

tions.

“This was an operational environment.

“There needed to be a lot more education in building awareness about hangar etiquette, but equally he [McCann] shouldn’t have lashed out.

“What he did was unacceptable. You can’t go around hitting people.”

McCann would later be challenged as to why he didn’t make more of an effort that day to find the pilot and speak to him about what was going on.

Much was made in court during the eventual CAA prosecution about how serious the potential consequences could have been as a result of McCann’s actions.

The authority’s claims it was “close to an act of terrorism” were however doused by the judge, and then King, who said to describe it as such was an exaggeration.

The blows knocked off the pilot’s glasses and headset. Dazed and bewildered, he ducked to avoid the punches.

His feet and hands came off the aircraft’s controls, which meant he had technically “lost control” of the plane.

It was laden with fuel and was carrying oxygen tanks used by the pilot and camera operator for high-altitude work often required during aerial survey work.

At that moment, the aircraft could have started to roll away.

McCann could have been pitched through the rapidly spinning propellor, or the fuel and oxygen-laden aircraft could have run into any of the nine or 10 nearby hangars, workshops and operations buildings which form Nelson’s aviation cluster.

Luckily it didn’t, most likely because of the angle of the nose wheel at that moment, the Nelson District Court heard last October.

attacked

The Originair hangar which was being worked in by McCann’s crew when the Cessna pilot was attacked.

Photo: Tracy Neal.

but was never charged

Why did the

police

not prosecute Lawrence McCann?

From the chain of correspondence between the police and CAA, it’s clear the authority had lingering questions about why McCann had been referred to Te Pae Oranga.

On March 24 last year, the CAA asked the police specifically what the key decisions were which led them to refer McCann to the panel, rather than have him appear before the court on a charge of common assault.

The emails, which went back and forth, also suggest police did not hold a complete record of events. At one stage they asked the CAA to send McCann’s version of events, as he had not provided this information to the police.

The police told CAA investigation and response manager Dianne Cooze they had sent the complaint through to the iwi panel rather than the court because “police will not deal with any aviation-related offending, preferring to leave this to CAA”.

The police wouldn’t say why, except to ask CAA.

However, a document released to a member of the public in November 2021 showed that in 2019 and 2020 the police took legal action on nine occasions for breaches of the Civil Aviation Act in those years.

King said, in all her years in the industry she had never known an instance where someone who offended was referred to an iwi panel in the aviation context.

She believed what happened that day reached the threshold which warranted police prosecution.

“He punched someone and that’s not lawful.

“If you got drunk on an aircraft and punched somebody you would be up in court and you would be prosecuted.”

In the Nelson District Court in October 2022, McCann’s request for a discharge without conviction from the charge brought by the CAA was refused and he was fined $2000.

His lawyer, Michael Vesty, argued the assault itself was “low level” and McCann had “worked hard to keep it away from court”, by working with the CAA, including an undertaking to complete safety-based courses.

Judge Tony Zohrab described the offending as “situational” by a senior and trusted member of the aviation industry who was not prone to such behaviour.

McCann did not respond to requests put through Fieldair for an interview, and neither did Fieldair chief executive John Read respond to questions from NZME.

The victim also declined to be interviewed, but the managing director of Aerial Surveys Limited, Steve Laming, said the incident had been “very distressing” for the pilot and the crew member.

King said there was no question it was scary for them, made more acute by the element of total surprise involved.

Laming said each had required time off work, but with the support of the close-knit team in Nelson, and support from the company, which was focused on their wellbeing, they did return to flying duties.

However, each had since moved on to new jobs with other companies.

“We did implement some operational changes to reduce any further stress for them while Mr McCann was still working in the hangar, which he continues to do,” Laming said.

He also said that damage to the leased aircraft was not significant, and he understood the cost to cover this had been paid directly to the owner.

King said that while conse-

quences were warranted in this case, she didn’t believe prosecution was always the right solution.

“They don’t actually achieve a lot of gain in aviation safety.

“What achieves change is getting people to sit down, analyse, and talk through the circumstances and how to avoid them occurring again,” she says.

King said there was a lot to be learned from what happened, particularly around how pilots should operate around hangars, most of whom were cautious and careful.

Without knowing McCann’s views, it appears others are satisfied with the final outcome.

Laming said justice appeared to have been served after CAA placed great significance on the seriousness of the incident.

“We do agree with that view,” he said.

The CAA said it was satisfied with the court’s decision, which may have a bearing on McCann’s ability to operate in the future.

The authority said his conviction would be considered during any renewal of aviation documents required by him as a licensed aircraft maintenance engineer, the same as anyone working in the industry.

“As a senior person, Mr McCann’s FPP [fit and proper person] status will be thoroughly reviewed as part of that organisation’s five-yearly certificate renewal.”

King said the best outcome remained an improvement in safety.

“From an aviation safety point of view, the best outcome is that everyone learned a heck of a lot from what happened.”

Tāhunanui Beach death

A man has died at Tāhunanui Beach after being pulled from the water unresponsive on Sunday evening. Police confirmed that the 43-year-old man died at Tāhunanui Beach. Emergency services responded to a report of a person unresponsive in the water, shortly before 8pm. “Attempts were made to resuscitate the man, but sadly he has died,” Police said on Sunday night. Police are making enquiries on behalf of the Coroner.

Winning lotto ticket

A Lotto player from Nelson has joined three others from Auckland and Wellington in a share of $250,000 when they wonn Lotto First Division on Saturday’s live Lotto draw. The winning tickets were sold at Pak n Save Richmond and on MyLotto.

New chair for Wakatū board.

Wakatū Incorporation has announced Johnny McGregor’s appointment to Chair of the Wakatū board, effective immediately. Mr McGregor replaces long-standing board Chairman Paul Morgan, CNZM, who served more than 30 years on the board, including 22 years as Chair, before stepping down as Chair this week for a sabbatical to recognise his long service.

Rai Valley prepares for A&P show

Rai Valley volunteers are busy prepping their showgrounds for the annual A&P show on Saturday, 4 March. The show, which has been running since the 1930’s, has been cancelled for the past two years due to Covid restrictions. Previously only the war had cancelled the show, now in its 87th year.

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this summer he

“do

Riding the length of the country on a whim

JACK MALCOLM

In the weeks leading up to Christmas, Daniel Dwyer decided that he would cycle the length of the country through backcountry, MTB Trails and great hikes to raise funds for the Child Cancer Foundation.

Having started his ride on 22 December, he was more than 2500km into his 3014km goal when he stopped to talk to the Nelson Weekly last week, saying he expects to finish in Bluff sometime between Wednesday and Friday.

While the going hasn’t been easy, Daniel says it pales in comparison to what some of our most vulnerable people and their families go through

Nelson Tasman’s only private surgical hospital.

everyday.

Having experienced the hardship of having a sick child, with his son Malachy having a rare medical condition that requires ongoing MRI monitoring, his challenge seems small.

“We’re very fortunate he doesn’t have anything wrong, but you spend some time in paediatric wards. . . and you just think to yourself ‘man they’re strong’. These are kids living their lives inside a hospital.”

Daniel says his experience made the decision to support the Child Cancer Foundation, who help to relieve the pressures families can face to get the support and care they need, an easy one.

“I can’t imagine going through something so painful, and when I read their [the Child Cancer Foundation’s] website, it just melted my heart. It just takes that one last bit of irrelevant pressure off, that last hurdle.”

While he’s a regular at crossfit training, Daniel says his preparation was not perfect by any means.

“I’m just a typical Kiwi. I like my pies and I like my beers.”

Adding to the challenge, he ripped his oblique muscle clean off his lower rib bone on a wayward swing of the cricket bat in his team’s social cricket league in the week leading up to his ride. A diet of dehydrated meals and muesli bars over the last three weeks has seen him shed 18 kilograms, down to 89kg.

Daniel spent Christmas Day alone in Opononi, treating himself to a pottle of mussels and a six-pack of beer.

He says his trip has seen him experience the true meaning of Kiwi hospitality, from people offering to wash his clothes, to being fed in almost every town he’s stopped in.

“Prior to doing this trip, I’d never offer to put up a cyclist or give them a shower. . . but, to hear that, is like Christmas to the cyclists. It’s such a simple gesture and it means so bloody much.” Donate to Daniel’s ride at childcancer-fundraising.org.nz/daniel-dwyer

We provide our skilled surgeons with modern, state-of-the-art theatres and equipment so that Nelson Tasman residents can have access to the very best in surgical procedures. Contact us to find out more.

36 Manuka Street, Nelson Phone: 03 548 8566 www.manukastreet.org.nz

10 Feb - 12 Feb 2023

Fri & Sat: 10am – 5pm Sun: 10am – 4pm

Trafalgar Centre, Paru Paru Road, Nelson

Enter on the Nelson App between 18th January - 30th January to go in the draw.

Daniel Dwyer normally

takes the statutory holidays off at Christmas time, but

decided to take some leave and

something good” by riding the length of the country to raise money for charity.

Photo: Supplied.

Checkpoint finds majority of carseats installed incorrectly

SARA HOLLYMAN

A collaboration between police and Baby on the Move is improving child safety, one carseat at a time.

Police and staff from Nelson’s Baby on the Move set up a checkpoint at Tāhunanui Beach on Monday to check the installation of child safety restraints, or carseats.

Baby on the Move manager Rachel Cooper says they were expecting to see a lot of incorrectly installed restraints, and that’s exactly what they came across.

“We’ve seen around 80 per cent of restraints not installed correctly,” Rachel says of the two-hour time period spent near the playground at the beach.

She says it ranged from minor errors, which could be corrected on site at the time, to more serious issues that required a proper consultation for correct fitting of three seats across the back and intallation of anchor points.

Rachel says they saw a lot of children in the incorrect seats for their size – around 50 per cent.

“A lot of children in half-boosters or children who are technically exempt from a restraint by law, but should still be in a booster seat to offer the best protection in an impact because the seatbelt is not correctly fitting their body.”

She says with the hoidays, a lot of people aren’t using their regular child restraints, with children chopping and changing between cars.

The partnership began when constable Mel Allen contacted Baby on the Move late last year to do a check at a preschool in Motueka, which they say was very successful.

“I think there was one compliant one out of 28,” Mel says of the check.

“It really highlights why we need to do more, it’s not necessarily that they haven’t got the right carseat, it’s just not correctly installed.”

Mel says restraints are vital to reducing injury and most people were suprised to learn that theirs was not correct.

“Parents want their carseats and their children to

be safe. There are so many different seats and they are the hardest thing to install,” she says.

“Our law and our best practice don’t line up - we want more people to follow best practice because those are the children who

NELSON

NELSON

Nau mai, welcome to 2023! I hope you had a relaxing summer break with your friends and whānau For those who worked through the summer break, we thank you for keeping the Nelson Tasman region running!

First, a big congratulations to everyone honoured in the New Years honours list, including the seven people from the Nelson Tasman region: Tony Gray, Paul Morgan, Waihaere Mason, Leigh Gibbs Eileen Harvey-Thawley Dr Kath Walker and Nathan Fa’avae You've all made a significant contribution to Aotearoa and our region

It s been great to see so many people enjoying what Nelson has to offer over summer, including Bay Dreams the UB40 concert and Taste Tasman Thank you to everyone who has worked so hard to showcase the best of Nelson Tasman to our visitors from New Zealand and overseas

Last week I was delighted with Kainga Ora’s announcement of five more warm, dry and affordable public homes in Richmond that will be available for tenants very soon The Government is continuing to increase the number of public and community homes available in Nelson There is more to do but we are making good progress

My office is open and my team are back to help find solutions to any issues or queries you have I'll be back at the Nelson Saturday Market from early February I look forward to working with the constituents of Nelson Whakatū throughout 2023

have the best chance of survival in an impact,” Rachel adds.

Best practice includes a rear-facing seat until at least two years of age and an approved child restraint until the child is 148cm tall.

100% New owned and

100% New Zealand owned and operated.

100% New Zealand owned and operated.

Is your car seat installed properly?

Is your car seat installed properly?

Is your car seat installed properly?

Did you know – not all car seats fit all cars. Over 80% of car seats in NZ are NOT installed correctly. A seat that is not installed correctly cannot perform adequately in a crash.

Did you know – not all car seats fit all cars. Over 80% of car seats in NZ are NOT installed correctly. A seat that is not installed correctly cannot perform adequately in a crash.

This checklist will help you identify if you can improve your installation:

This checklist will help you identify

Does the car seat have minimal or no movement at the belt path? This means less than 2.5cm.

If the child is harnessed does the harness fit snugly? Perform the “pinch test”. If the harness is snug, your fingers will slide off the webbing. If the harness is loose, you will be able to pinch the webbing between your fingers.

• Does your car seat require you to attach a top tether to an approved anchor point? Check your car seat manual to identify this.

• Is your child below the maximum height and or weight limitations of your car seat (either rear or forward facing)? See stickers on the side of the seat or refer to your manual. Has your car seat expired? Check the date on the seat and refer to manual for life span.

Did you try the car seat in your vehicle before purchasing it? Not all car fit all cars – At Baby On The Move ensure the car seat fits your child your vehicle.

ding Richmond and Hope

Nelson office 03 539 0480 rachel boyack@parliament govt nz Unit O, 530 Main Road, Stoke (Strawbridge Square)

/RachelBoyackNelson @rachelboyack

NELSON

Back from left: Constable Mike Turner, TDC road safety coordinator Jeni Thornborough, acting sergeant Rowan Strange, senior constable Stef Harris, constable Mel Allen. Front: Baby on the move manager Rachel Cooper and assistant manager Meg Brookman. Photo: Sara Hollyman.

Alastair and Celia Barracuda Ali and John Borland Amy Fray and Kate Stoneman Gina Andrews and Andrea Cockerton Stirling Scott and Breffni O’Rourke

Emma Jefferis, Abigail Furlong, Shelby Hager, Erika Kruidenier and Flora Lloyd Ethan Fowler, Magan Oliver-Lowe, Mitchell Bridge, Kiela Parker and Andrew Oliver Grant Markham and Michael Holmes

Asha McCormack, Josh Blair, Mikayla Yates, April Bryce and Aiyana Demello Alexa Wilson and Garry Munro

Raifest bringing community together to save lives

break.

Sonny Aitken knows just how vital the rescue chopper is to saving lives – it saved his own, and now he is rallying a rural community together with music to raise funds for the service.

In 2019, Sonny was working down south driving a 12 tonne loader when the brakes failed, sending him down the main road with no way to stop. He says the loader was doing more than 100kmh when it hit the bank at the bottom, leaving him with severe injuries, including a head trauma which has changed his life forever.

“I thought I was dead, but I woke up in the chopper at Dunedin Hospital.”

He says the accident left him with short-term memory loss for around six months and he was having difficulties in Nelson so he moved to Okiwi Bay, a place he’s had an affinity with since he was young, to get a

Suffering with depression, poor mental health and pain from the injuries he says Ian and Pam Montgomery, who own the Okiwi Bay Holiday Park, were a lifeline.

“I’ve known Monty since I was a little kid, so when I moved down he would come and pick me up and we’d go round the camp for an hour at a time.”

Sonny then got a rescue dog, Prince, who he credits to improving his mental health. Then, he found music.

“On my 39th birthday I got Prince, on my 40th I first played music.”

Now Sonny, aka Noose-NZ, and his music mentor Chopz, have teamed up with 12 other artists to bring the 12-hour drum and bass Raifest to the Millers Rest in Rai Valley on Saturday.

He says while it is a drum and bass festival, all 14 artists have a different style.

Nelson Marlborough Rescue

Helicopter Trust manager Paula Muddle says its a great inititaive to support both them and bring the community together.

“They do the hard mana and we reap the rewards, which is fantastic. And they’re supporting the Rai Valley community who support us whole-heartedly.”

The group are aiming to raise $5000 and they hope to make the festival a regular feature on the Rai Valley events calendar.

“The rescue chopper is so under-funded, which seems a bit silly to be honest,” Sonny says.

Entry to Raifest is free for the all ages event. Children need to be with a parent and it is R18 after 10pm.

The carparks at the Millers Rest can be booked for self-contained camping vehicles for $25, with each booking having a chance to win a $100 bar tab.

Free camping is also available, check out the Raifest Facebook page for details.

A 28-year-old parrot called ‘Our Bird’ joined the Top o’ the South Steam Punkers for a fun day at Te Pā Harakeke in Tāhunanui last Sunday. Dr Don has owned his green Alexandrine parrot since it was just a hatchling and the two have become inseparable in the almost three decades that they’ve been together. “We’ve closely bonded over the years, and he’d be lost without me now.” The Steam punkers entertained fascinated onlookers with their band The Mafficking Whooperups.

Photo: Jo Kent.

ALLIANCE – SEASONAL TEAM MEMBERS

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

Ngā painga - what’s in it for you?

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

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

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

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

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

• Up to 7 months of full-time seasonal employment

• Upskill yourself with an opportunity to gain NZQA qualifications

• Receive ongoing training and support

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

• Access to our free employee assistance programme

Ō pūkenga - about you

• You are eligible to work in New Zealand

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

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

• You enjoy working within a team environment

• You are physically fit, committed, and reliable

Apply online at www.alliancejobs.co.nz, by emailing nelson.botas@alliance.co.nz,

or visit us at the Nelson Plant, 910 Main Rd Stoke, 7011.

SARA HOLLYMAN

Sonny Aitken with his dog Prince and chopper pilot Colby Tyrrell. Photo: Supplied.

Have your say: sara@topsouthmedia.co.nz facebook.com/nelsonweekly

Unicorn stolen from iconic Rocks Rd property

I’ve never even noticed it up there when driving past. How cool. But this is very tragic and unfortunate.

Natalie Krammer

Aww, that’s so sad, please return it.

Katrina Ranson

That is just another horrible event these people are fighting. Come on people, help them out. Get it back. For them. Nelson is better than this.

Sue Barnes

Why should people steal from others, that’s the point!

Lynn Tasker

Wow, what a low and disgusting thing to do... Absolute scumbags of the earth!!

Karina Tasker

Thieves are real lowlives!! AND just what do they think that they will do with the head?? It is very well known in Nelson as the house is photographed and people know where it is! Also, that the house is red and is known to have suffered in the slips! Perhaps we should all share on Face

Book...leads to good sharing of the news far and wide.

Helen Makinson

How disgusting and senseless, it is so unique that no-one will be able to display it. As if the owner of that house hasn’t gone through enough, only an absolute low life would do this.

Glenis Shaw

I saw it was gone, thought owner had it, but nope.

People are horrible

Jax Coleman

Well, won’t be easy to sell on since the whole of Nelson knows what it looks like. Let’s hope it’s returned!

Bloody disgusting.

Danni Bett

Hope it’s returned. {It} is disgusting that someone would do something like this.

Noeline Riordan

Car ploughs onto Ridgeway property

Time for BOLLARDS, Aaron.

Wendy Hobson

Natureland has welcomed three new kids on the block with one of their Nigerian crossbreed dwarf goats, Orisa, giving birth last week. The black and the brown and black kids are both boys, with the white eared kid being female. Keeper Alix Rimmer says their personalities are already starting to show, and one is a “particularly bouncy” kid. Natureland welcomed a trio of adult dwarf goats last September from a breeder in the North Island. With their gentle and patient personalities, they are perfect for educational encounters with children. Photo: Supplied.

My concerns are the trail of skid burnouts on The Ridgeway. Where are the cops? What are they doing to shut the racing hoons down?

Alan Bryant

Lost a fence but gained a sleep out. Mikey Brereton

NCC will need reports from engineers, planners, safety officer, traffic engineer, Geotechnical, police, St. John’s, meanwhile could have a temporary barrier up in one hour.

Sandra Zindel

Can’t go calling that one a boy racer though can you...

Jesse Pope-bell

Could the Nelson City Council pay for a decent barrier?

Kate Hislop

Missing water dragon makes her way home

So happy that both are safe and sound again. Happy, happy news team Natureland. Janelle Thorpe

Fantastic news!! Love it. Helen Makinson

Just asked about this today. So awesome, Anna Francis Val Parkes

I was thinking about it too yesterday as I was gardening.

Fritha McDonald

Please install more cameras and have better security locks etc the animals need to be safe from these idiots.

Lulu Armstrong

Thursday

TŌ TĀTOU WHAKATŪ

Financial relief approved for Nelsonians affected by August storm event

At a Council meeting on 15 December 2022, elected members approved an extension to the current rates remission policy for red and yellow placarded properties that were unable to be occupied as of 30 November 2022.

Those affected will be eligible for full rates remissions for a period of up to five years, or until the home is reoccupied. All eligible property owners are being personally contacted and provided with application forms. Property owners who have already completed a rates remissions application form will have the additional remission automatically applied and backdated.

Previous rates remissions for these properties only covered services unable to use while a property was unoccupied, such as water and stormwater charges. The December report recommended increasing this remission of rates to cover the total rates bill for all red and yellow placarded properties that cannot be occupied overnight. The change to total rates remission represents an additional average household saving of $2,166 per annum.

Mayor Nick Smith said the proposal to extend rates relief for homeowners recognises the stress people are still under from the storm.

“The extra support is focused on those whose homes are so badly damaged that they cannot be occupied. This extra support comes at a cost to ratepayers but it is about Nelsonians supporting each other through tough times and will help the worst affected families and assist in their recovery.”

Mayoral Relief Fund fully paid out

The Mayoral Relief Fund closed on 30 November 2022 and has granted funds to more than 250 households.

At a Council meeting on 15 December, elected members voted in favour of a proposal from Mayor Nick Smith to add an additional $50,000 of funding for the Mayoral Relief Fund from Nelson City Council to cover a shortfall, after additional funding was declined by the Government. This step was taken because of concern that applications would be declined without this additional funding.

Mayor Nick said demand for the Mayoral Relief Fund exceeded its initial funds.

“Many residents are now facing financial difficulties due to burdening costs of reinstating their land, including damages that are outside of insurance and EQC criteria such as fencing for stock control, roading and access to properties and water tanks.

“The Mayoral Relief Fund can never fully

compensate for the huge losses people have suffered from the floods, but it is an important source of support for the worst affected.”

The $50,000 funding approved by Council brings the overall Mayoral Relief Fund to $789,000, made up of $390,000 from Government (50%), $349,000 from private donations (44%) and $50,000 from ratepayers (6%).

Don’t wait till it’s too late to conserve water

With a warmer than average summer predicted for Whakatū Nelson, it’s important to start thinking now about ways we can conserve water. NIWA forecasting predicts temperatures are likely to be above average, and that marine heatwave conditions will result in high heat and humidity at times. There is an elevated risk for dry spells as fewer westerly winds are expected.

The earlier we begin conserving, the longer we may have before water restrictions are needed.

Nelson City Council has a list of easy water-saving tips we can all use to help conserve water. Remember, every drop helps.

A day out at Saxton Oval

The T20 Super Smash is headed to Nelson, bringing family fun and cricket action to Saxton Oval.

The Central Stags and Hinds take on Otago in a T20 doubleheader on Saturday 21 January. But before the big match, there’s a chance for the kids to meet and test their skills in some cricket games with Stags and Hinds players, and maybe even win tickets for Saturday’s match.

Friday 20 January – Meet players from the Stags and Hinds. Games, tickets, giveaways and more. Saxton Oval 1:45pm3:30pm.

Saturday 21 January – T20 Super Smash, with food trucks, giveaways and inflatables for a great day out with family and friends. Gates open 10am.

festival

NELSON DISTRICT LICENSING COMMITTEE

APPLICATIONS FOR COMMISSIONER/CHAIR INVITED

Nelson City Council’s District Licensing Committee (DLC) deals with alcohol licensing matters within our City. The Committee is responsible for making decisions on all alcohol license applications (including special licenses) and Manager's Certificate applications, renewals and temporary authorities under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.

Council is seeking to appoint a Commissioner/Chair to the District Licensing Committee for a term of five years.

Applications are now sought for this role.

Applications (including a cover letter which outlines your experience against the necessary competencies and a CV containing at least two referees) can be emailed to michelle.joubert@ncc.govt. nz or posted to Michelle Joubert, Nelson City Council, PO Box 645, Nelson 7010.

Applications close 10 February 2023.

To check your eligibility to be included and find out more about the role, please visit the careers page on Nelson City Council’s website: careers.nelson.govt.nz

MEETINGS

The following meetings of the Nelson City Council have been scheduled.

Nelson Regional Sewerage Business Unit 26 Jan

Saxton Field Committee - Boardroom, Sports House, 142 Saxton Road East, Saxton

For a full list of Council meetings go to:

nelson.govt.nz/meetings

To

KOHA

Nelson Academy of Dance, led by principal Gillian Francis for over 40 years. On the back of a successful production of Cop-

pelia,

outstanding examination results, Gillian and her students are excited to be back in the studio and get started on the showcase for 2023.

“The students received very high

Nelson Academy of Dance

marks all around in both the June and December examinations. We are really pleased, well done to everyone.“ Nelson Dance Academy accepts all interested students from ages three and up, to the studio. “We welcome both male and female students, with a range of classes to choose from, including male only and mixed, and specific pointe classes only for major female students designed to strengthen and develop the classical repertoire, performance and knowledge of dance.” To enrol, or check the studio’s timetable, visit the academy’s Facebook page or phone Gillian on 021 264 3402. Classes commence January 30.

Is learning the bagpipes or snare drum the right fit for your child? Our team of voluntary tutors are dedicated to providing high standard music tuition for all 9-11 year olds. Kids enjoy learning alongside their peers in our group-based lessons where they master technically challenging hand movements, learn to read music, and develop their competency to play music with others. Learners make new friends and learn a variety of transferable skills and strategies that will support them growing up. Lessons are $50 per school term and practise instruments are provided. Celtic is a not-for-profit, nationally-competitive pipe band which focuses on a positive culture and a high standard of performance. We are proud to offer this opportunity to our local community. To enrol or contact us, visit our website at celticpipeband-nelson.nz

Swimming is the only sport that can save your life, says Richmond Aquatic Centre’s SwimMagic administrator, Patsy Berriman. Learning to swim is for all ages, children and adults alike, from six months through to adulthood and is a social activity inclusive for all abilities which provides challenges along the way and rewards new skills gained. Swimming can improve balance and posture, strength and flexibility, and keeps children's hearts and lungs healthy. “Learning to swim is not only fun but has so many health benefits to keep you and your children happy and healthy. The SwimMagic programme provides a clear pathway from learn-to-swim to competitive swimming, and encompasses water safety in every lesson.” Try learning to swim today in a warm and inviting environment from a team of well trained and experience instructors. “Enrol now for swimming lessons all year round!” Richmond Aquatic Centre on 161 Salisbury Road, Richmond - ‘We put leisure in your life and life in your leisure’.

Pilates Nelson is a fantastic local business celebrating 10 years in the heart of Nelson. Our tranquil studio offers a serene environment for you to focus on your physical and mental well-being. Pilates is a low-impact exercise form, making it suitable for people of all ages. The controlled, precise movements can help to improve posture and reduce the risk of back pain. It strengthens and tones muscles, improves flexibility and balance, and increases energy levels. Pilates

can help to reduce stress and tension, promoting a feeling of relaxation and wellbeing. At Pilates Nelson the instructors are fully-qualified and experienced. We are dedicated to helping our students achieve their personal goals, whether that is to improve fitness, reduce stress or manage a specific health condition. Experience for yourself the many benefits pilates can bring to your overall well-being.

Since returning from Auckland in 2019, Rebecca Bignall has developed a ballet school specializing in children aged 3-12yrs. ‘I foster young dancers through a fun, interactive curriculum which encourages the love of dance, music, use of imagination, artistry and technique.’ Children develop lifelong skills including confidence, communication, self belief and positive mindset. They are involved in a yearly performance to showcase and celebrate achievement. As well as the ballet classes Rebecca offers, this year she will also be teacher a jazz class for 8yrs+. Classes are held at Nelson Centre of Musical Arts. Qualifications include: LNZAMD (Examiner), RTS RAD, BTchLN (Primary), Diploma Positive Psychology & Wellbeing, PBT Certificate. Rebecca encourages her students to participate in local productions and performances. For further enquiries please contact Rebecca on: rebeccabignalldance@gmail. com, or visit Rebecca Bignall Boutique Dance Company on Facebook. NB: Prospective students are welcome to

have a 30-minute trial lesson for free. Enquire with Rebecca to confirm appropriate class and times.

Love the sound of cornets, horns and trombones? Why not take up a fantastic opportunity to learn a brass band instrument in 2021? What’s more – when you join the NBS Nelson City Brass Band, the tuition is free and so is the instrument hire for a whole year! “People of all ages are welcome to participate, and we particularly like to encourage primary, intermediate and college students to join,” says NCB Secretary Wayne Jennens. “The junior band have lessons on Tuesdays after school in the band room at Hathaway Terrace (next to Trafalgar Park). Wayne says it’s a great activity in which the participants get to travel around. “Once they get up to particular standard, they can join the junior band and play three or four times a year in public. We will also be looking to take the band to a regional or national contest this year. The term starts in late February, but people are welcome to join Nelson City Brass anytime. To register, email secretary1@ nelsonbrass.org.nz

Waiting on your NCEA results and thinking about what to do once you get them? You can still study or even do an apprenticeship without having the full NCEA credits, so this new year, are you ready for a new journey? Tee up a free half-hour chat with a Te Pūkenga NMIT

student advisor to understand your options. With over 100 programmes starting in February, there’s never been a better time to check out what’s on offer. If you don’t meet the entry requirements for your chosen degree or diploma, don’t worry. Our team works with you to help you succeed. A Certificate in Study and Career Preparation offers path-

ways into Nursing, Arts and Design, Counselling and Social Work. Foundation Studies can kick-start your career in 2023. We have loads of programmes that are tailored to our region’s growth industries. Our close industry ties enable us to offer work placements, apprenticeships and over $90,000 worth of scholarships for 2023. nmit.ac.nz

New year New journey

Jane Pascoe offers a unique programme where students are introduced to ballet, theatre craft and contemporary modern jazz throughout the year, giving them exposure to all the benefits of the three disciplines. With 22 years of teacher training and experience behind her, Jane brings this together with her passion and boundless energy to create a very special experience for students. With classes on offer for children aged three years and up, Jane’s programme will allow your child to experience the magic of creative movement and learn these dance techniques in a safe and encouraging environment. Students will have performance opportunities and will also take part in IDTA examinations, plus, Jane strives to develop confident, kind and assured individuals with learning skills and perseverance that can be used in any area of life. Contact Jane for more information on dance, yoga, pilates and barre classes online and in-person. Check out her social media

platforms and informative posts. Sharing a unique bond with Jane Pascoe, is Peta Spooner, who for the last 53 years has been introducing people to the joys of dance at Peta Spooner Academy of Dance.

“Jane did her teacher training with me, and the philosophy of our studios is essentially the same – such as inclusiveness,” says Peta. “We merge our studios for shows, we share exam sessions and teachers, many of whom have trained through me. So, together we have a strong commitment to sharing our resources.”

Peta Spooner

Peta Spooner Academy of Dance aims to develop wellrounded dancers who are gracious, considerate and demonstrate a positive attitude. The academy has an excellent record for training teachers and provides outstanding tuition for all levels and abilities in classical ballet, contemporary, and modern jazz. It also provides opportunities to perform on stage and sit examinations. The academy often ignites a passion for dance in Peta’s pupils and can create pathways to employment. “Problem solving, teamwork, confidence, artistry, happiness, self-esteem; my education in all important areas of life occurred at this studio, I wouldn’t change it for the world! I owe it all to these teachers!” – Livvi Lloyd. Term 1 commences on 7 February 2022. For more information, contact Peta on 03 548 9890 or petaspooner.nelson@ gmail.com or Jane on 021995009 or hello@janepascoe.co.nz

ACADEMY OF DANCE

Nelson Christian Academy

If you are interested in a quality Christian education for your child, enrol at the Nelson Christian Academy.

Situated on 3.65 hectares of tranquil parkland and native bush in Marsden Valley, Nelson Christian Academy is a beautiful sanctuary for students to embark on their lifelong learning journey.

Principal Jenny Laidlaw says she is proud to lead the vibrant, multicultural Christian primary school. “We are committed to teaching our students to further develop their love for Christ.

At NCA we have four whanau values that are explicitly taught and woven through all of our school life, laying the foundation for academic, social, and personal success – Show Resilience, Seek Truth, Show Integrity and Give Honour.”

For enrolment details, visit www. nca.school.nz or phone 03 547 7082. The office is open from January 26.

Buses /Classes resume on February 3. Goal Setting Conferences for Term 1: February 1 & 2.

To book a Goal Setting Conference please go to www.schoolinterview.co.nz and enter the code: btjq5

Bays Montessori

We value the individuality of each child and draw upon the Montessori philosophy to inspire them to realise their full

potential.

Over a hundred years ago, Dr Maria Montessori proposed that the years between zero to six were critically important to human development as children readily “absorb” from their environment. She believed that all children are born with innate potentials which need to be nurtured by an optimal environment.

Our prepared learning environments are especially designed to

Check your school’s stationary list to make sure you have everything.

childhood.

We are the longest running provider of Montessori education in Nelson and have built long-lasting connections with families and the wider community.

In 2016, we opened a Montessori classroom for infants and toddlers at our Tukuka Street site, the first of its kind in the Nelson region.

Families who have children at our centres are also drawn to our teachers dedication to children’s holistic development. We have an established lunch programme that enables children to be part of growing, preparing and serving their food.

meet the needs of children’s curious minds and to develop their independent thinking skills.

Many adults who attended a Montessori school credit their Montessori education for equipping them to be self-motivated and self-directed learners.

Sergey Brin and Larry Page, the co-founders of Google, both attended Montessori schools in

Our nutritious lunches have the approval from the New Zealand Heart Foundation. Our curriculum incorporates the outdoors, music and the arts.

Overall, we aim to prepare children to be independent learners with the support of their family and the wider community.

For information on our opening hours and costs, or to enrol your child, please visit our website www.baysmontessori.co.nz

2018 Enrolments welcomed

If you are looking for a Quality Christian Education for your child we have a very limited number of spaces for new enrolments across the school in Years 1- 8 for 2023

NCA Office will be open from Thursday 26th January for the purchase of new uniforms and scheduled meetings with the Principal. We invite you to visit our website to start the enrolment process.

Term One: 1 & 2 February - Goal Setting Conferences

To book a Goal Setting Conference please go to www.schoolinterview.co.nz/code/btjq5

Buses/classes re-commence Tuesday 3rd February

100 Marsden Valley Road, Stoke School Office: 03 547 7082 | Email: office@nca.school.nz www.nca.school.nz

2023 Enrolments welcomed

2018 Enrolments welcomed

Our office will be open 8.30 am – 2.30 pm Tue 30 January – Fri 2 February

Our office will be open 8.30 am – 2.30 pm

Tue 30 January – Fri 2 February

Our office will be open 8.30am - 2.30pm Tues 31 January - Fri 3 February

We look forward to seeing everyone after the summer break on Wed 7 February, 8.30 am

We look forward to seeing everyone after the summer break on Tuesday 7 February, 8.30am

We look forward to seeing everyone after the summer break on Wed 7 February, 8.30 am

800 Main Road, Hira, Nelson

545 0942

800 Main Road, Hira, Nelson | Ph 545 0942 office@hira.school.nz | www.hira.school.nz

Auckland Point School

You are invited to a public talk on MONDAY FEBRUARY 20TH

TIME: 7:00-8:30pm

VENUE: Victory Community centre

Introduction to the Montessori Philosophy and why choose this as an option for your tamariki?

- Three key Montessori principles

- Absorbent mind, Sensitive Periods, Human Tendencies

- The Montessori learning environment

- The Montessori learning Community - Montessori adults

New

We are open for enrolments on: Wednesday 25 January and Thursday 26 January 2023 9.30am - 2.00pm www.aps.school.nz

Presented by Cathy Wilson, Chief Executive, Montessori Aoteaora, NZ with the Senior teachers from Bays Montessori.

Please register by contacting Nissa on 021 1756477 or email nelson.montessori@gmail.com

Currently we have limited vacancies in all three centres and if you are interested to observe a session, please contact us.

Nelson College for Girls

Preparing our young people for the world of work that they will move into has never been more important. The last three years have shown how adaptable and flexible we need to be in our working lives and reinforced the need for skill development that will allow creative solutions to problems. This has never been more important. Nelson College for Girls offers an innovative curriculum for years 9 and 10, with students experiencing a wide range of courses in year 9.

In year 10 there is more choice for students, based on their year 9 experiences but still keeping their learning broad, to enable them to specialise in the senior school.

Nelson College for Girls also places great importance on the qualities of citizenship; respect for diversity; ability to work in collaboration with others; and our PRIDE values.

We are very proud of the academic, cultural and sporting successes of all of our students. They truly show that they aim to be the very

best that they can be at NCG. It has been a privilege to lead a school with such dedicated staff and with students who are so successful in so many aspects of school life.

Nelson Central School

Ensuring all children have the opportunity to flourish in their

learning, Nelson Central School provides exceptional teaching within a supportive community environment. A special place located in the heart of Nelson City, Nelson Central School is a large contributing school, offering both English and Māori medium streams of learning, catering to new school starters at five years old through to year 6 students.

SECONDARY SCHOOL

JANUARY

10.00am – 3.00pm - Head Students Day 1.00pm – 4.00pm - Uniform Shop Open

MONDAY 30 JANUARY - Nelson Anniversary Day (school closed)

TUESDAY 31 JANUARY - Staff Only Day

1.00pm – 4.00pm - Uniform Shop Open (Boarders Only)

WEDNESDAY 1 FEBRUARY

10.00am – 12.00pm - Year 11 and Year 13 senior re-enrolment

1.00 – 3.00pm - Year 12 and Year 13 senior re-enrolment

THURSDAY 2 FEBRUARY

School buses will run from today at normal times – bus students are welcome to go to the library until school starts. All students in uniform 10.15am - Head Students meeting 11.00am - Year 13 to the New Gym mezzanine floor 11.45am - Year 7, Year 9, new students and new staff - please assemble on the front lawn in preparation for Mihi Whakatau 1.15pm - School day finishes for new Year 10, 11 and 12 students 3.10pm - School day finishes for Year 9 and 13 students

FRIDAY 3 FEBRUARY

9.20am - Year 9 and Year 13 students to ārahi classes, Year 10, Year 11 and Year 12 to the Hall – welcome back 3.10pm - School finishes

MONDAY 6 FEBRUARY - Waitangi Day (school closed)

TUESDAY 7 FEBRUARY 8.50am – 3.10pm - Normal school Day

“We see ourselves as whānau- we have highly skilled, caring teachers who are leaders in their field, and a great supportive school community,” says principal Pip Wells. “We live and breathe our vision of empowering each other to flourish in our learning and in our world, by focusing on equity, excellence and belonging . . . and have a bit of fun along the way”. School starts for new enrolments, and Whānau Connect Hui, on 2nd and 3rd February, and then for all children on 7th February.

For information on School Terms, zones and more, visit www.education.govt.nz

School shoes are going to get a mega workout so make sure you get ones that are comfortable and will last. (and fit in with the schools uniform policy)

Nelson Lawn Tennis Club picks up national award

Nelson Lawn Tennis Club rounded off a busy 2022 by being named the Love Tennis Club of the Year at Tennis New Zealand’s annual awards.

The club was recognised for their commitment to Love Tennis, which sees clubs around the country open their doors and courts for members of their community to come along and give tennis a go for free.

Their 2022 Love Tennis Day, held at the courts situated in Rutherford Park, was a great success with well over 200 people coming along to give tennis a go, says club president Robyn Sheves.

A big draw card was the half price family membership deal on offer, which saw over 20 families who had caught the tennis bug sign up on the day to play tennis for a year.

Robyn says the award is a testament to the club and its members’ hard work in making the day such a success.

“To win this national award is great recognition for our club and for all our members who got in-

Premier Cricket

volved in running the event.

“We pride ourselves in being a friendly club and we thoroughly enjoyed welcoming the Nelson

Cricket rep

community onto our courts and sharing our love of tennis.”

The club is already organising this year’s event, with Robyn say-

Waimea Toi Toi United have scraped past Wakatu in premier grade cricket. Having set 171/10 from their innings, Wakatu New World Nelson City were bowled out in the last over of the game for 167 to fall just short. In other results from the weekend, Nelson College could not recreate their winning ways against ACOB, losing by five wickets, and Wolves (Wanderers/ Motueka) posted 236 before bowling out Stoke-Nayland for 131.

Waimea College’s Carl Quinn has been selected for the Central Districts U17 team. He is the only Nelson player in the squad, as they gear up for the NZC Under 17 National Tournament starting this week.

Also Cricket

The Nelson Pine Industries Griffins have drawn with Marlborough to win the Gary MacDonald shield for the first time, in a game that also doubled as a Hawke Cup elimination match. Batting first, the Grif-

ing they can’t wait to welcome more of the community down to the courts.

Alongside their national award, it

fins were bowled out for 281 on the back of 96 from David Zorhab, before bowling out Marlborough for 108 with Sam Baxendine taking four wickets for 34 runs. Nic Clarke bolstered the Griffins’ lead with 89 before they declared at 191/3 with Marlborough batting to 94/3 before the end of play.

MTB

Nelson Mountain Bike Club hosts the third round of the 2023 MTBNZ National Downhill Series at the end of January, with the best racers in the country descending

was a big year for the club in 2022 as they retained the Bennett Cup, an annual fixture that’s been running for almost a century against Marlborough Tennis Club, and won back the Lewellin Muncaster Shield, a friendly annual fixture against Hope Tennis Club in a closely fought contest.

Alongside their competitive players, the club isas busy as ever with their recently-installed Book-aCourt system which allows the public to book and pay for a court online.

Alongside casual players, the club is a hive of activity with membership at NLTC offering access to professional coaching for all ages and levels, social tennis, fun events, the opportunity to meet new people and for those who want to play competitively, club championships, interclub and other interclub fixtures.

For more information about what’s on offer at NLTC or to book a court and play, visit clubspark.kiwi/nelsonlawntennisclub or contact the club at hello@nel sonlawntennisclub.com

on Fringed Downhill to fight for more than $5000 in prize money over the last Saturday and Sunday of the month.

Fishing

Dawnbreakers

Fishing Club’s Snapper Cup returns for 2023 with over $20,000 in prizes. Registrations are open now for the tournament on March 4, with prizes for heaviest snapper, kingfisher, kahawai and gurnard in both adult and junior categories.

Nelson Lawn Tennis Club members (back) Geoff O’Malley, Cath Dyson, Katrina Hollingworth, Buzz Bartlett, Vicky Wutzler, Steph Trevena, Robyn Sheves, (front) Mandy Beynon, Ania Longman, Sabia Longman, Laylah Hollingworth and Tina Rouhoff celebrate after the club was named New Zealand Tennis’ Love Tennis Club of the Year. Photo: Brook Freeman.

Nelson Girls College’s Lola King dives for a loose ball at the Pipeline Beach tournament at Tahunanui on Saturday. Lola paired up with Waimea College’s Lily Zwart (background) to make the finals, where they lost in straight sets to Ana Beatriz Vasquez Ramirez and Elly Nakonz. In the men’s draw, the heat played a massive factor as Sean Thurlow and Dan Heath took out the victory over Andy Laing and Marco Fon. With the sand starting to heat up to a point where it was burning the player’s feet, Andy and Marco struggled with cramping that led to them forfeiting the second set. Photo: Barry Whitnall/Shuttersport.

Community Notices

MONDAY

PHILOSOPHY CLUB meet 2nd & 4th Mon of the month. 10am, Melrose House. Next meeting: Plato’s Cave. Ph: Zoe 027 974 1758.

ACTIVE STRENGTH/BALANCE CLASS: Also seated options presented. Tāhunanui Community Hub, Muritai St, Mon @1pm. ACC accredited provider. Get fitter to great music. Ph: Shirley 5471 433 / 021 121 8023.

STOKE SENIOR CITIZENS is a Friendship Club accepting all INDOOR BOWLING beginners and players, Mon and Fri 1:30-3:30pm. An annual $5 subscription and a $2 mat fee covers costs levied for the afternoon. Mats and bowls are provided by the club. Ph: 547 9814 or 547 3052.

MONDAY FOOTBALL Come and join our friendly social football (Soccer) group in Tāhunanui. Anyone welcome. Weekly from 6pm opposite Sprig & Fern. Just turn up.

NELLIE KNITTERS GROUP. Meet every Mon, 1-3pm. Nightingale Library in Tāhunanui. Come along and join our super friendly group of knitters and create garments for donation to community groups. All materials provided. Donations of wool gratefully accepted. Ph: Jillian 539 5546.

TUESDAY

WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ - Tues 17 Jan, 10-11.30am. McCashins, Stoke. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities, and services. www.wellby.org.nz 03 546 7681.

NELSON 50+ WALKING GROUP Tues 24 Jan. Pelorus Bridge. Meet 10 am at Pelorus Bridge Reserve. Please bring your own lunch as we stop mid walk for lunch. Ph: Angela 027 444 1546.

NOHO PAKARI (SIT & BE FIT) Tues 10.30 - 1.30pm. Tāhunanui Community Hub. Run by Wayne from Te Piki Oranga, he is providing exercises that are fun while you’re sitting. Any questions Ph: Wayne: 027 3063 123. wayne.simons@tpo.org.nz.

VICTORY SIXTY PLUS Tues 1.30-3.30pm. 238 Upper Vanguard St. Join us for cards, games, and a cuppa. For more info Ph: Jan on 546 9057 or 027 4577 955.

WEDNESDAY

WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ – Wed 18 Jan, 10-11.30am. Motueka Library. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities, and services. www.wellby.org.nz 03 546 7681

ISEL LADIES PROBUS CLUB Welcome to our friendly club, 4th Wed monthly, Baptist Church, Stoke at 10am (also coffee, lunch & book groups). Ph: Nadia 547 8452 or Sue 548 6062.

LA LECHE LEAGUE NELSON Last Wed of the month 9.30-11.30. Richmond Plunket, Oxford St. All welcome. Support and info also available by Ph:/txt: Ruth 027 243 3469.

RADIO CONTROL MODEL PLANES at the Wakapuaka flying site on Wed and Sun from 10am to midday, weather permitting. New members welcome. Contact Murray 021 457 663 for information.

VOLUNTEER GARDENING at Waimarama Community Gardens every Wed, 9.20 – 12pm. Tantragee Rd, The Brook. Tools provided. On the bus stop. Ph: 021 1709 443.

ALZHEIMERS NELSON TASMAN monthly Library sessions provide opportunities for information, advice, and support around memory Loss. Nelson Library, every 4th Wed 9.30-10.30 / Stoke Library every 4th Thurs 9.30-10.30am.

PLAY PETANQUE at Nelson Pétanque Club. Wed & Sun 1.15-3pm. A game for all ages. Come along and try us out. Ph: Roger or Shirley, 546 6562.

THURSDAY

FOSTER CARE INFORMATION EVENING Thurs 9 Feb, 7pm. Interested in becoming a Foster Parent? Come find out about our Christian Foster Care programme. Light supper will be provided. 10D Kotua Place, Stoke. RSVP Mika at Open Home Foundation 027 461 0497 or mika. ito@ohf.org.nz

START-UP TAI CHI every Thurs 9-10am. Victory Community Centre. Tai chi is often described as "meditation in motion," but it might well be called "medication in motion". Join Jingjing from the Healing Hut for this gentle form of exercise that can help maintain strength, flexibility,

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY

50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY

SEND TO: myevent@nelsonweekly.co.nz

and balance. It could be the perfect activity for the rest of your life. COST: $50 for 8 weeks

FRIDAY

FREE FITNESS FRIDAYS – PT in the Park. Bringing communities together for fun and fitness. Free fitness with your neighbours, family, and friends in a local park near you. Become active in our local parks. Email Nicola@bfit4ever.nz for dates and park locations or look on Facebook Bfit4everNZ.

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

WAIMEA HARRIERS Milnes Beatson Wakefield Roaster 10km and 5km fun run and walk Sat, 21 Jan. Everyone and all abilities welcome. See website for details. Queries Ph: 022 372 9432.

STOKE MONTHLY MARKET Summer special. Sat 21 Jan, 9-12pm. Methodist church lawn. More stalls welcomed Ph: 03 927 6130 to book. 1/2price for newcomers.

NELSON SUMMER KITE FESTIVAL Sat 21 & Sun 22 Jan, 12-5pm both days. Neale Park Nelson. Rainbow Flight Kite stall, food and drink stalls, kite buggy rides, face painting, balloon twisting, train rides, great family fun. Donations appreciated.

QUALITY CRAFTS NELSON, Sat 21 Jan, 9-12pm. Richmond Baptist Church, 123 Salibury Rd. Walk through the Boot Market to the Church Lounge to find us. For a wide selection of quality local handmade crafts with something for everyone! Ph: Kay 027 547 6777 for further details.

GENERAL GROUPS

CAKE DECORATORS are inviting new members to join. You don't need any skills. Come and learn how to work with fondant, sugar paste and chocolate. Creating flowers, figurines and covering a cake. Ph: Desiree 027 630 2359.

THE SUTER ART SOCIETY Summer Exhibition. “Pay and Collect” until - 22 Jan. A selection of small paintings ideal for giving or posting to friends.

BEYOND THE FACE EXHIBITION by Age Concern Nelson Tasman. Until 27 Jan, 9-5pm. Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows. Come along and find out the interesting story behind the face.

ART EXHIBITION - During the month of Jan. In the Art Corner of the Nelson Golf Club Cafe, 38 Bolt Road Tāhunanui. A display of Art Work by three Local Artists, Pat Reid, Claire Dowson and Glenis Ambrose, Open to the public daily.

ASTHMA? COPD? Nelson Asthma Society offers a free eight-week Pulmonary Rehab Course - Nelson course in August, and Motueka in November. This course can help you improve your respiratory selfmanagement skills and shortness of breath. Phone your medical centre for a “Pulmonary Rehab course referral” or contact asthma. nelson@xtra.co.nz

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS to help support Nelson Hospital. This is a social opportunity for people to donate their time to a 3-4 hr shift during the week in a variety of roles. You will be supporting our patients, visitors, whānau and staff while receiving sense of purpose, enjoyment and belonging to a group. Visit www.nmdhb.govt.nz and search ‘volunteering with us’.

DOWNSIZING OR DECLUTTERING? Vinnies in Vanguard St can collect your good quality household donations. Please just call us on 03 548 9372.

COULD YOU VOLUNTEER on a Mon or Thurs morning 8.30-10am to assist elderly people on and off our van? And take them to our day activity programme in Annesbrook Drive. Please Ph: Maaike 03 2655224 email maaikef@psusi.org.nz

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

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

ARE YOU A CHRISTIAN wanting to make a difference in the life of a child? We are looking for caring Christian people who are willing to open their home to care for a child/young person. To find out more, Ph:

Mika at Open Home Foundation 027 461 0497 mika.ito@ohf.org.nz.

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

SURVIVORS AND THRIVERS If you have or have had cancer, supporting someone with cancer come and meet others in this friendly atmosphere. Register info@cancernelson.org.nz or P: 539 1137 for details.

WAKEFIELD COMMUNITY BUS: HELP NEEDED The Nelson Tasman Community Transport Trust provides affordable community public transport in areas where there’s little available. Wakefield Bus is in need of support – can you help? We’re interested in hiring a local minibus (6-11 seater) on a regular basis & looking for volunteer drivers, no special licence required. To ensure our bus service continues NTCTT are looking for board members with a few hours to spare. Ph: 020 4196 0553.TO BOOK A SEAT - call or text 020 4195 8866.

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP. Cancer Society Nelson 102 Hardy Street, if you have or have had breast cancer come along to this friendly atmosphere. Register 539 1137 or info@cancernelson.org.nz.

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

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

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

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

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

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

CARTER

Donald John Gwen, Brian, Jillian, Kathryn and their families would like to thank the following for their kindness and care during Don’s illness and eventual passing on the 21st of November 2022. Nelson Hospice, Shone and Shirley, Nurse Maude, McGlashen’s Pharmacy, Crimpy, Stoke Bowls and The Greenkeepers Assn. Many thanks also for the beautiful flowers, many cards and baking received. Forever in our hearts.

ALLPORT

Kevin Harold

Peacefully at home in Nelson on 11/01/2023, with his beloved wife Jill by his side. He was courageous and brave to the end. Cherished and treasured Dad of Meryn, Louise, Linda and the late Steve. Loved and respected Father-in-law of Paul and Garth.

Loved Grandad of Ben and Ash, Adam, Shana and Ethan, Paige and Matt. Special Great Grandad of 6. Dearly loved brother and brother-in-law of Junet and Lloyd Wilkinson, Ellon and Peter Sparrow and their families. Loved Kevin of Sharon and the late Carmen and their family. A friend and mentor to many.

“Free to fly in the skies.”

Special thanks to all those that helped keep Kevin at home. In keeping with Kevin’s wishes a private cremation has been held.

Messages to 14 Green Street, Tahunanui. Donations to Nelson Tasman Hospice PO Box 283 Nelson. Thank you. www.sdfunerals.nz