The Guardian - 20 March 2024

Motueka arts in trouble

Buddies get muddy

More than 1000 people squelched, splished and slithered their way across the mud flats near Tasman School on Sunday, for the annual Muddy Buddy fundraiser.

While figures were yet to be finalised, early reports are that more than $20,000 has been raised, which is to go towards a school playground upgrade.

A white elephant stall, silent auction, grocery hamper raffle and

head-or-tails competition for two brand new bikes, care of My Ride Richmond, kept the whole crowd – both clean and mud splattered - well entertained. The organisers say it was a fantastic day.

“The weather turned out for us,

the crowd came in their numbers and the estuary was at its muddy best! And the icing on the cake were the Black Falcons from the Royal New Zealand Airforce doing a flyover of the event en route to Nelson.” Wholehearted thanks

go to the almost 40 sponsors and dozens of volunteers who stepped up to help make the event a wonderful success. Pictured top left is Mino and Marty from Lower Moutere. Photos: Chris Symes/ Shuttersport.

ELISE VOLLWEILER

Pest in a half-shell – Tākaka’s rogue turtle

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

A rogue turtle is raising alarm bells in Tākaka and has Tasman District Council scrambling to trap and euthanise it.

The turtle, a red-eared slider, was probably a pet that was released into the environment.

However, red-eared sliders are one of the most invasive pest species on the planet and is an eradication pest under the regional pest management plan.

Though they may look cute, the turtles could have a devastating effect on native wildlife.

“They obviously came in as pets, and people either got bored with them, tired with them, and just thought ‘oh, I’ll go and put it in the stream and it’ll be fine’,” says the council’s communications manager Chris Choat.

“Problem is, they eat everything, and they can destroy habitats of a wide variety of things.”

Being omnivorous, the turtles will eat aquatic plants, insects, eels, small fish species, and even ground-nesting birds.

If their voraciousness wasn’t worrying enough, an entire population can quickly spring from a single individual.

A female red-eared slider can remain reproductive up to five years after mating and can produce several clutches of eggs each year over that time, Chris explains. “Basically, they breed quicker than rabbits.”

one turtle in Lake Killarney and a specifically-designed live capture trap at the lake is being frequently monitored so the turtle can be euthanised once caught.

consulted on, the turtle, with feedback on the control programme being supportive. This isn’t the council’s first tango with the turtles.

dealt with.

“And for some reason, every so often, one will pop up in Killarney,” Chris says.

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Council staff are “reasonably confident” that there’s only

All residents on the western side of the lake, including the Abbeyfield House, have been spoken to about, and local iwi have been

Red-eared sliders have been previously spotted in Richmond’s Borck Creek and in the Motueka River and were subsequently

“If we don’t get them out, or if it breeds – if it’s a female – we’re in trouble.

“Anybody that sees them, please report them,” he says.

Red-eared slider turtles can destroy native habitats and entire populations can spring from a single individual. Photo: Laszlo Ilyes/Creative Commons.

Upper Moutere crash

TRACY NEAL Open Justice Reporter

Landscaper Aaron Copson was “heavily intoxicated” when he failed to take a corner in the Lexus he was driving and crashed into a homeowner’s garden. The teenager’s sentence on charges of driving with excess breath alcohol and careless driving might have been more harsh if not for his early guilty plea and an offer to use his landscaping skills to fix the hedge he’d driven through. Police described Copson as having been “heavily intoxicated”. An evidential breath test showed a reading of 738 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath - almost three times the legal limit for drivers over 20. The breath-alcohol and blood-alcohol limits for drivers under 20 are zero, with penalties including fines and demerit points.

In the early hours of a Sunday morning earlier this month, Copson was driving on a dark rural road in Upper Moutere. He later told police he had been drinking before he “decided to go for a drive” along Tarrant Drive, which has an 80kmh speed limit. The 19-year-old came to a left-hand bend in the road and failed to take the corner. He then crossed into the wrong lane before leaving the road and crashing through the hedge, which served as a fence around the rural property. He did not explain at the time why he was out driving at 3.30am, or why he had crashed, police said.

In the Nelson District Court on Monday, Judge David Ruth acknowledged Copson’s early guilty plea, a letter from his employer and his lack of previous matters before the court. Judge Ruth also took into account Copson’s skills as a landscaper and his offer to put things right for the property owner by offering to fix the damage. On the charge of driving with excess breath alcohol, he was fined $600 plus court costs and disqualified from driving for six months.

Judge Ruth also made an order that notice be given to the owner of the car Copson was driving that he was not to drive it again, or the owner risked losing it. On the charge of careless use of a vehicle, he was convicted and discharged.

Litter cart rides again

ELISE VOLLWEILER

The Motueka litter cart, which retired at the same time as long-time operator Nolan Duff, will be spinning its wheels again as of next week.

Duffy operated the litter cart for more than a decade, tidying the streets of Motueka, and when he hit 65, it was time to hang up his grabber claw.

Now, 19-year-old Emma Hobson, who is transitioning from Motueka High School, is going to be steering the cart along Motueka’s streets every Monday morning, with some help from her teacher aides. Her hours will be a little different to Duffy’s – she’ll be setting off at 9am rather than the crack of dawn – but just like her predecessor, she intends to finish her run with a coffee at The Village Café. The duty came her way after her teacher aide Ellie Evitt noted Duffy’s retirement.

“We decided, well, this is perfect, because on Monday we clean up parks and bike tracks,” Ellie says, adding that they have been doing this together for about a year.

She contacted Our Town Motueka coordinator Claire Hutt, who is thrilled that the distinctive yellow cart will be back in use.

Emma lives on the Tākaka Hill. Her mother runs the Ngarua Caves, and she loves helping her father with his cattle. She says she is keen to make the environment cleaner and nicer for our town’s visitors.

Emma Hobson will be donning the hi-vis vest and rolling the Motueka litter cart out of retirement next week. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

Is this the final curtain for the Motueka Music Group?

ELISE VOLLWEILER

The Motueka Music Group has brought many dozens of acclaimed musicians to town since its inception almost 50 years ago, but dwindling committee numbers means that the group is now in jeopardy of winding up. President Colin Hooker is stepping down at the group’s AGM, which is to be held later this month, and he is hoping that it can yet be saved with new committee members coming forward to fill some of the empty roles.

The Motueka Music Group has a long history, with its first meeting in April 1975. For several years, performances were held in the St Andrews Church Hall, until 1991

when Sir Peter Goodman offered the use of the old St Peter Chanel Church building, which was held in his family trust.

The group gratefully accepted the offer and, renaming it the Chanel Arts Centre, have continued to host nationally and internationally renowned musicians, including the New Zealand String Quartet, pianists Dierdre Irons, Michael Houston and Oleg Marshev, flautist Alexa Still and gypsy violinist Fiona Pears. The Motueka Music Group itself puts on eight performances each year, and the hall is rented for other groups to add to the centre’s itinerary.

Despite the success of the group and the ongoing support from the Motueka audiences, Colin says

that over the years it has become increasingly difficult to find people willing to join the organising team. The music group’s secretary, communications officer and

booking officer have all departed in the last two years, with no one stepping up to replace them, and Colin has also made the difficult decision to step down, to enjoy

his retirement.

The 86-year-old says that if there are no new nominations for the new president or secretary, a motion will be put to the meeting that the group be wound up.

“If this motion is passed it would, of course, be a terrible blow for Motueka as there would be no more concerts at the Chanel Arts Centre in future.”

He does not know what will become of the hall if that is the case, but he remains hopeful that the dissolution won’t come to pass, and that the community will step up to bolster and bring fresh energy to the music group.

The AGM is to be held at 7.30pm on Thursday, 28 March, at the Chanel Arts Centre.

The whānau of Te Āwhina Marae in Motueka joined with partners, contractors and supporters on Thursday for the final blessing of their new 20-home Papakāinga. By the end of this month, all homes will be tenanted and 35 tamariki will be living

pā.

Colin Hooker is worried about the future of the Motueka Music Group. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

on the

Photo: Melissa Banks/Te Āwhina Marae.

Biodiversity group up for national award

ELOISE MARTYN

The Tākaka Hill Biodiversity Group Trust has been selected as one of the three finalists for the 2024 Ministry of Primary Industries BioHeritage Challenge Community Award.

The BioHeritage category is based on groups or individuals being recognised for their biosecurity work protecting our natural and physical resources from pests and diseases that can cause harm.

Those entering needed to clearly be able to describe the biosecurity mahi (work) they are doing and the effect they are having.

“Being selected as finalists in the awards is fabulous recognition and great publicity to encourage others to do similar things and why community groups can be successful,” says co-founder and project manager, Charmaine Petereit.

“People at the place are the best people to be protecting and restoring their biodiversity as they know the place and the people, so we work grassroots up and that’s how things should be managed.”

The Tākaka Hill Biodiversity Group Trust was formed in 2018.

Charmaine says they have great support and participation from locals, and they acknowledge Te Ātiawa as mana whenua iwi of the Tākaka Hill rohe (area).

“We have a holistic approach to ecosystem restoration and protection and a 50-year strategy. We are safeguarding the biodiversity

and biosecurity of ecosystems on Tākaka Hill.

“The area is significant due to its limestone geology, endemic flora and fauna, and as a corridor linking Abel Tasman and Kahurangi National Parks.”

The group’s notable achievements to date include controlling pest

plants, such as wilding pines, native plant propagation, extensive predator trapping (using over 400 traps), restoration planting, and assisting scientific research and data collection on endangered and indicator species.

“Volunteers are a dying breed, as many people find finding spare

time hard enough day to day without volunteering, however, if we don’t do it no one will do it,” says Charmaine.

“It’s a privilege to be doing what we are doing, but it’s a big commitment and a lot is relying on the biodiversity group, therefore, it cannot be taken for granted and being that biodiversity is so important, it needs to be funded.” A handful of volunteer trustees are heading up to the awards in Wellington in April and Charmaine says that while it’s an expense and a time commitment she is looking forward to the occasion.

“I come from a farming family and have 100 acres of beech forest. I work from home and spend most of my time in my old work gear so I am looking forward to getting my glad rags on and spending a night in Wellington eating good food and pushing home the message that we cannot deliver this work without funding.

“It’s also a great chance to push the trust out there and be a flag waver to other communities to say that you can do it yourself like we have.”

Members of the Tākaka Hill Biodiversity Group from left, Suzie Peacock, Norman Petereit, Charmaine Petereit, Tony Salmon, Wendy Henderson, Graeme Helleur and Ellie Kamphuis. Photo: Supplied.

Thousands raised at ‘magic’ relay

GORDON PREECE

More than 600 people circuited Richmond A&P Showgrounds over 16 hours at the weekend’s Nelson Tasman Relay for Life fundraiser for the local Cancer Society branch.

The event, which was held between 4pm on Saturday and 8am on Sunday, laced up after a sixyear hiatus, and close to $180,000 had been raised for Cancer Society Nelson Tasman as of Monday, with donations still open for the next two weeks.

Motueka-based art and crafts group, Crafty Tarts, was one of the 50 teams who took part in the fundraiser, and their team raised more than $8400, blitzing its $1000 goal.

Member Sheila Wilson says the team took part in Relay for Life for the first time to recognise one of its seven members who has recovered from breast cancer.

“It’s a very meaningful event and we all know that we need to raise money for the cancer society to support everyone when it comes to the crunch,” she says.

“We chose the walking option… about 5am we were all feeling a little bit jaded, but you just made yourself get up and do a few laps

because it’s a team effort.” Cancer Society Nelson Tasman centre manager, Michelle Hunt, says the fundraiser was “magic” and the roughly 150 participating cancer survivors and their carers were “blown away” by the support.

“Everyone was so committed to it, everyone dressed up, the tents had amazing set-ups, and we were so lucky with the weather,

the wind dropped which made it a gorgeous night,” she says.

“It has been mind-blowing [for the cancer survivors and carers]… it was so much fun, and it was such an honour, and we’re just overwhelmed that we had so much support from the 50 teams.

Michelle says the fundraiser opened with the survivors and carers lap to celebrate those who have fought against cancer, before

a candlelight ceremony was held later in the evening to remember those who had lost their lives to cancer.

“Everyone got behind the survivors and their caregivers in the opening lap, we had the Nga Aho Rau kapa haka group perform for our survivors and carers to welcome them on to the start line,” she says.

“Our candlelight ceremony

was so touching, so beautiful… and it was also a hard emotional time for some people who had lost loved ones to cancer and have people in their lives who are still fighting.”

Michelle says the event will set off again in 2026.

Motueka-based Crafty Tarts smashed its $1000 goal by more than $7000. Photo: Rachel Moffitt. Inset: reporter Jack Malcolm during coverage of the relay. Photo: Supplied.

Local conductor heads for New York

World-acclaimed conductor Rita Paczian, who lives in Motueka, has been invited to conduct at Carnegie Hall in New York. “It is a very prestigious venue,” says Rita. “Being asked is the highlight of my career. All the greats like Bernstein have conducted there so it’s a big honour.” Rita moved to New Zealand in 1993 after a holiday as a backpacker where she fell in love with the outdoors and the lifestyle, “I came to New Zealand just by chance on holidays. I like the outdoors, and like the attitude to women here, it’s a little more open, not so much prejudices so I came back and contacted universities and opera houses for work.”

Since 1994, Rita has been the Musical Director of Bach Musica NZ, New Zealand’s leading combined orchestral and choral ensemble made up of a professional orchestra and a 45 voice auditioned choir. They perform a wide range of ‘music that touches the soul’ from Baroque to 21st Century.

Living out of a suitcase until she was forty, her career as a conductor has taken her to most European countries, Australia, South Africa, United States and New Zealand. But her favourite place in New Zealand is Motueka, and for lifestyle reasons she decided to settle here with her husband, John Green, in 2022.

In April, Rita will be guest conductor for Chroma Chamber Choir at the Nelson Centre for Musical Arts. “We are doing a world premiere of Gloria - a piece by local New Zealand –Hungarian composer and jazz pianist, Gabor Tolnay.” They will also be performing Faure’s Requiem which Rita will conduct at Carnegie Hall, New York in May 2025.

When not conducting orchestras, Rita likes to read, walk her dogs and to play tennis. She is an accomplished tennis player and a level 2 professional coach.

Tickets for the Chroma Chamber Choir performances on April 27th and 28th can be purchased from Nelson Centre for Musical Arts with limited early bird tickets available.

Rita loves walking her dogs Stella and Blackie. Photo: Fiona Nelson.

Local History

Robert Fellowes and Tākaka’s ‘superior’ Globe Hotel

ROBYN PARKES

Robert Ross Fellowes was born in Lancashire in 1825. In 1854 at Melbourne, he married Catherine Dunn and immigrated to New Zealand aboard the ship Spray in February 1855. By 1859 they were living at Waitapu, Tākaka, where they had 11 children. In June 1871 the new Globe Hotel, described as being of superior accommodation for all classes, was built with Robert and Catherine as proprietors. The hotel quickly became a popular destination with many an activity held in the hotel or on the surrounding paddocks, such as the first pigeon match to take place in the Tākaka district. The family faced more than their fair share of tragedies over the ensuing years. In March 1887 Robert and Catherine’s son William drowned while crossing a river on his way home from

shooting rabbits. Later, in 1897, their son Hamilton drowned in the Mokihinui River on the West Coast. The hotel business flourished and in 1888 the Globe was enlarged and at completion boasted 38 rooms with new bedrooms, four parlours and a bridal chamber. Life continued without any major events until June 1892 when fire destroyed the stables, along with 60 bags of oats. The loss was substantial as Robert had

no insurance. The stables were rebuilt but again destroyed by fire in June 1897 along with 20 tons of hay, chaff, potatoes, harness and chaff cutter. Robert had an eye for opportunities and in September 1892, seeing the waste of vast quantities of timber in Aorere Valley through the process of settlement, moved his sawmill plant from Upper Tākaka to Riverdale to be able to access the bulk of the timber. The engine and boil-

er, placed on a wagon, weighed around 10 ton and was moved from Tākaka Bridge to Collingwood in two days with a team of 16 horses and 10 bullocks. The balance of the plant arrived by sea on the ketch Comet and the mill was operational by January 1893. Robert and Catherine retired in late 1897, leaving the Globe in the hands of their son Fred and daughter Emily. Robert died not long after on 10 May, 1898 fol-

lowing a long illness.

Early morning in July 1898 the Globe was destroyed by a fire which started in a chimney. The new Globe Hotel, finished in January 1899, was considered one of the best buildings possible. It was of solid totora and rimu, 64 feet long, with a depth of 47 feet and had a veranda running along the front and side. On the first floor was a kitchen, storeroom, dining room, three private parlours, and three bedrooms, while the bar and bar parlours were at the extreme north end of the passage.

Emily Fellowes married Arthur Gaukrodger, who supported her in the hotel. After two years of marriage, he was killed in a terrifying trap accident. Catherine died May 1910, age 75. By 1920 the hotel was in the hands of Mr James Anderson and so ended the link between the Globe Hotel and the Fellowes family.

The Globe Hotel, which is now known as River Inn. Photo: Supplied.

Kiwi Distillery Garden Party

David Scotland, Sally-Anne Neal, Rochelle and Steve Mitchell

Gavin Warn, Steve Goodfellow, Katie Cullen and Lily McRae

Georgia Robertson, Samuel Robertson and Paris McEnaney

Imke, Bettina and Richard Herzog

Jacob Cleve, Jordan Hampson and Emily Johnstone

Jane and Karina Pritchard

Olivia Ma’a, Tori Wells and Georgie Moleta

Amy Mangan and Neve Mangan

Rochelle Prince, Rachel Astbury and Karilyn Woodford

Shikana Palmer, Jack Balck and Hamish

Nelson Tasman attach the appeal leash

GORDON PREECE

Local guide dog users are encouraging donations this week for the “significant” costs to raise, train, and maintain the canine improvement for others who are blind and have low vision.

Blind Low Vision NZ Guide Dog Puppy Appeal week will take place nationally from 20 March, and street collections for the organistion will be at New World Nelson and Motueka on 22 and 23 March.

Blind Low Vision NZ says the annual event supports blind and low vision people by providing them with highly trained guide dogs to enhance their independence and navigate the challenges of daily life.

“The journey to becoming a guide dog is not an easy one, accompanied by a significant cost of approximately $175,000 to raise, train, and maintain one guide dog in service… the organisation receives no govern-

ment funding towards this,” the organisation says.

“The impact of these trained guide dogs cannot be overstated; they open new possibilities and help their handlers live safer, more independent lives.

“With an average wait time of 552 days to receive a guide dog and 27 clients currently awaiting a match, the Guide Dog Puppy Appeal Week is essential in reducing this waiting list.”

Motueka guide dog user and appeal week coordinator for the town, Sue Fraser, who has low vision, says it took about two years for her guide dog, Riley, to become available.

“When one actually came through it was wonderful, it opened my world into a bit more independence because the worst thing was losing my driver’s license, and then I couldn’t read, so it was very challenging,” she says.

“With the help I’ve had from Blind and Low Vision has been amazing to help me become an

individual who can now walk in the local community with my guide dog to help me along the way, he’s given me the confidence I needed.

“Hopefully people will be able to donate as much as they possibly can, anything would be helpful because guide dogs cost well over $50,000 to maintain to be the dog they are.”

Māpua resident, Steve Delaney, who is blind, says he was on the waiting list for his guide dog Sally for five years.

“I’m lucky to have the little girl Sally [the guide dog] I have now, Sally has made my life so much easier, they open up a world to people that they probably didn’t believe they could obtain,” he says.

“I’ve been a volunteer collecting for guide dogs in the past here in Māpua, a very generous community, I think people associate puppies and guide dogs with something that is worth giving.”

Online donations are also available at blindlowvision.org.nz.

Low vision Motueka resident, Sue Fraser, says her guide dog gave her more independence. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

The sun beamed down on the Riverside Festival on Saturday, with almost 500 people attending the annual Lower Moutere event. Organisers say that the festival is a great draw for families, with parents enjoying the entertainment and connecting with their community, while the children played and slid down the hill on cardboard boxes. Twelve acts performed over the nine hours of the event, including performers from Blenheim, Nelson and Golden Bay, “and of course our very talented locals!”. They say that the Riverside Oval is a very special venue that has held community events like the musical festival for a number of decades. Photo: Supplied.

Opinion

Bike riders on footpaths

As a regular visitor to High St I am amazed that our community tolerates people on bikes riding on the footpath around and through shoppers which is extremely dangerous. Last Tuesday at 10am there were 5 bike riders, all male adults, all within 5 minutes, who cycled past Books&More and the BNZ while people mostly aged over 65 were going about their shopping. One cyclist was estimated to be riding at 20kmh with absolutely no consideration for pedestrians. This is a huge risk to anybody if hit by these idiots, especially when exiting a shop into the path of one. None of these riders were wearing helmets and I’ve noticed this increasing trend in and around Motueka. So this leads me to ask.... I have no doubt that the local constabulary will be aware of this problem but are choosing to ignore it until someone is seriously hurt. Would someone from the Motueka Police station care to respond. Thankyou.

Signed.... Blindsided

Driver licensing backlog causes stress and frustration

Have had to book my son into Blenheim and he still has to wait until May… seems nuts we have to travel from Motueka to Blenheim to sit his restricted license.

Sally Curtis

It’s been going on for years. My daughter went to Ashburton almost 10 years ago to get hers.

Susan Eden

We travelled from Nelson to Greymouth for my grandson’s.

Yolande Jeffares

I waited eight months for an endorsement to be renewed.... imagine if I needed that endorsement for work.... eight months.

Liam Ryan

Should be able to sit restricted and full in Motueka now we have traffic lights!!

Yvette Chapman

I’m going to Blenheim from Nelson to sit mine! Otherwise, it would have been months.

Paige Hawkins - Heath

My son just tried booking in Nelson for his test and there was nothing for four months.

Margaret Goff

Maybe they should go back to the good old days when it was the police who took you for your test.

Annette Mckenzie

Some important figures there. The stupidly low pass rate on an incredibly simple and basic test. More proof we do not train people to drive correctly.

Warwick Rogers

School lunch loss would be ‘devastating’ Looking forward to my tax cut! I can’t believe this is even being considered, feed the kids and stop this nonsense.

Sonia Smith

This is how governments follow up on election promises.

Rayon Mackenzie

I took my son to Blenheim to get his restricted and he passed thank goodness.

Turia Curtis

atourlibrary

Te Noninga Kumu - 32 Wallace St - 03 528 1047

UniTea – Wednesday 20 March, 4pm-5pm

We invite you to connect over a cup of tea to acknowledge Unity Week 2024. Write proverbs or words of unity on our garland to be displayed in the library.

Lacy the Therapy Dog – Thursday 21st March, 11am-12pm

Come and meet Lacy the Hone Hato St John Therapy dog and handler Claire Hutt. Mindfulness and pats galore.

Beach Terrarium – Thursday 21 March, 10.30am-12pm

Come and create a Beach Terrarium so you can enjoy beach memories anytime. Book in at the library or phone (03)528 1047.

Paper Artsy – Thursday 21 March, 1.30pm3.30pm

Huge Thanks to “Blue” the Hone Hato St John Therapy dog and handler Julie Geritzlehner for visiting Motueka Library. Blue and Julie have new adventures to pursue.

History Buffs – Monday 25 March, 10.30am-12pm

Stitch Bloom Embroidery group – Monday 25 March, 1.30pm-3pm

Building Bricks with Adrian Barbour –Monday 25 March, 3.30pm-5pm

TUKU 24 Art Tour with Donna McLeod –Wednesday 27 March, 11am-12pm

Find out the stories behind the Māori Art works throughout Te Noninga Kumu.

Retirement living situated on the scenic edge of Richmond

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Te Hau National Waka Championships

6th - 14th April 2024

A week of festivities like no other at the National Waka Hourua Festival

This April, a fleet of waka hourua, waka with two masts that can rig a jib, will be sailing into Kaiteretere. Te Hau Kōmaru National Waka Hourua Charitable Trust are hosting their third National Waka Hourua Festival and our whole region are warmly invited to enjoy the experience.

There’s no doubt about it, our region has developed a deep love for Waka Ama; single waka with an outrigger fastened to one side. As a community, we’ve fully embraced not only the sport itself but also the profound connections it fosters - be it through culture, community, or conservation efforts.

Group Pilates classes for all levels available, as well as private equipment sessions in a boutique home studio for all ages and abilities. *ACC tick of approval for Core & Mobility classes.

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Long ago, our Māori ancestors navigated the vast Te Moana nui a Kiwa for thousands of years before finally arriving in Aotearoa. The knowledge and practices honed over countless generations continue to connect Pacific peoples with the sea, the sky, the land, and one another. Today, several waka hourua societies and trusts in Aotearoa serve as the backbone of the waka hourua resurgence, actively revitalizing this important aspect of our heritage. In support and celebration of this resurgence, the Te Hau Kōmaru Charitable Trust hosts a biannual National Waka Hourua Festival, and this year it’s coming to Kaiteretere. It’s a celebration of waka hourua, bringing together vessels from across Aotearoa and extending an open invitation to all our whanaunga from Te Moana nui a Kiwa.

The festival promises a diverse array of heritage displays, craftsmanship showcases, waka workshops, interactive activities, and a platform for waka experts to share their mātauranga waka with Te

Te Hau National Waka Championships

Tau Ihu Board Representative for Te Hau Kōmaru. Todd expressed his excitement about bringing the Te Hau Kōmaru Festival to Kaiteretere.

“It’s a first for our region on this scale, and it’s too good an opportunity to miss. It’s a learning experience for everyone, from the expert navigators sailing the waka hourua to the crew at Te Tau Ihu, who are a mix of newcomers and seasoned sailors. From Te Tai o Awatea, the new trust coordinating the festival in conjunction with Te Hau Kōmaru, to the schools, iwi, and the general public—this is an incredibly exciting time for all involved.”

Join in the festivities

Saturday Morning at 8am - Waka will gracefully sail through the turquoise waters of Tasman Bay, arriving on the golden shores of Kaiteretere, followed by a pōwhiri by mana whenua for waka hourua crew.

Sunday, April 7th - Festivities kick off with a public open day starting at 10 am. It’s set to be an outstanding day, offering the chance

ments integral to understanding mātauranga waka hourua. Attendees will also have the opportunity to experience a captivating Lightbox Show, projected onto water screens at the northern end of the bay, featuring three different pūrākau (stories) of our region.

When it comes to kai, you’ll be more than spoilt for choice. A night market, running from 1 pm to 7 pm, will showcase an array of mouth-watering food. Make sure to bring your appetite—rumour has it you’ll have the chance to experience some of the best local kai in the region. At the Night Market, you’ll discover an impressive collection of toi Māori (Māori art) for sale—pick up a unique memento for yourself or a loved one while supporting local artists and craftspeople.

A week of experiences for kura and a special haka Monday to Friday: It’s all about our tamariki and rangatahi as Te Hau Kōmaru hosts visiting schools. Six different workshops will give our youngsters an oppor-

both Pakarana and Motueka High School have created a Haka to support the Iwi welcome the four waka hourua on to Kaiteretere beach. While most of the local kura will attend the workshops, students from Wairau, Whakatū, Kawatiri and Motueka will also support with the pōwhiri.

A raft of workshops on offer

During the open days on Sunday 7th April and Saturday 13th April our community is invited to come and participate in a raft workshops on offer.

Kāpehu Whetū (a Star Compass) will be located under marquees at the campground. Discover the points on the Kāpehu and how navigators and kaumoana use it to sail across the moana.

Te Whare Whetū (Stardome) will be located in the same area as the Kāpehu. Learn about the practice of celestial navigation and the science of finding your way by the stars, sun, moon and planets through projection.

Ngā Kaupeka o te Tau will cover the seasons of the year using tohu of the taiao. Understanding what

www.experiencekaiteriteri.co.nz

Dramatic finale in Speedway’s Stampede

JODY SCOTT

The PTS Super Stock Stampede dished up a dramatic final race, as a long-held rivalry came to the fore in the feature race.

New Zealand Champion Asher Rees and Jack Miers got caught in an epic tangle that sent the crowd into overdrive, with Asher clearly upset in an interview while clearing the cars.

Having led the final race, Asher was put up the wall by his longtime rival Jack, who had slowed so Asher could catch him, and started a wall ride in turn one which ended with Asher on his side halfway down the back straight.

Uncertain if the contact was legal, Jack was allowed to carry on the race with his wing hanging off his roof.

The tussle cleared the way for a new race leader, 2nz Blair Uhlenberg, who stayed ahead of Wellington’s Dale Robertson and fellow Stratford driver Wayne Moss.

Nelson locals Alex Hill and

Shane Harwood rounded out the top five placings. Rollovers featured throughout the meeting, with Rob Anglesey thanking his new roll cage for doing its job after taking the biggest shunt over the weekend in his classic stock car.

Super Stock driver Jake Berry was another who went tipsy, before Ben Taylor went over in the final race of the weekend.

It was the second rollover in as many weeks for Roydon Winstanley, with the Ministocks also adding three more rollovers to

the tally. The Stock Car Summer Slam went the way of defending champion Riley Eathorne with his new partner Wade Sweeting. Only having to survive the final 3-lap run off, the was plenty to talk about with EB Young and Kahn Wheeler holding off a couple of single pairs of Braden Lawton and Troy Cleveland, whose partners were unable to make the start line.

The drama escalated when Roydon was put on his side by Troy Currie after getting caught riding up the side of the Troy’s car, leaving Jack Rarity in the lead to earn the win.

There were some tense moments as damage to Roydon’s car was assessed, having to be let down from the tow truck to line-up for the final race.

ner Riley back-to-back Summer Slam victories.

The Mini-Stock Mania ran with 40 cars from around the country split into junior and senior sections.

The points were kept hidden over the meeting until prize-giving, with Jack Anderton from Christchurch picking up the junior title ahead of locals Locky Martin 2nd and Easton Salter 3rd.

The senior section went to Meeanee’s Memphis Trengrove with Christchurch’s Kelan Keith 2nd and Connor Turner 3rd.

The Streetstocks ran their club champs over both days, the final race deciding the outcome, with a victory for 2nz Cody McCarrison, with Richard Bateman and Ryan Musgrove 2nd and 3rd respectively.

A four-way tussle off the start saw Riley hold Troy up the wall with a semi-broken Roydon chasing Wade.

Troy got off Riley, who retired to the infield, but he was unable to catch Wade, which gave part-

The cooling temperatures were warmed up as the nights racing went on, with some spectacular conclusions to the weekend’s racing that will see a return for many visiting drivers, as the PTS Stampede has established itself as Nelson’s flagship meeting.

Tapawera’s Dylan Hall 98n, front left, at Friday night’s speedway. Photo: Rebecca Connor Maling.

Wolves rewarded for a dominant season

JACK MALCOLM

Wolves (Wanderers/Motueka) have earned local premier cricket glory, winning the twoday final by 10 wickets over the weekend.

After finishing the first day with a commanding advantage over Stoke/Nayland, they enforced a follow-on early on Sunday to set up a chase of just 22 runs for victory in their second turn at bat.

Going into the last day at Isel Park, Stoke/Nayland knew they were under the pump but had the advantage of leading the regular season table, which would have given them the trophy if they could force a draw.

With play ending on day one with Stoke/Nayland at 113/8 in pursuit of Wolves’ first innings score of 283/10, the home side needed to get within 100 runs to restrict the follow-on but lost their two remaining wickets early in the day to finish on 135. Darius Skeaping (43), Dylan Eginton (23) and Ben Neale (18) were the bright spots of a scorecard that didn’t show the true potential of their squad, as no other batsmen made double-digits.

But on a batsman’s wicket, the Wolves’ bowlers came to play. Michael Olsen picked up four scalps for just 24 runs, while

NBS Motueka Golf Club

With every wicket that fell, Wolves’ celebrations, like Joseph O’Connor’s on his way to a five-wicket bag, got bigger and bigger. Photo: Evan Barnes/Shuttersport.

Sean Neal, Hayden Ingham, and Joseph O’Connor finished with two each.

Dylan continued his strong form with 63 more runs for Stoke/Nayland in the second innings, but again it was a bright spot in a scorecard where the team’s on-form batsmen like Jonty Raxworthy didn’t have the performance fans and players alike expected.

Joseph O’Connor picked up a five-wicket bag in the second innings, with the big paceman bowling 15.2 overs on his way to four maidens, allowing just 26 runs while also picking up a catch in the field.

Joseph was also the batsman to hit the winning runs, having finished on 16-not-out to add to his 52 runs from the first innings in a man-of-thematch performance. It was an improved performance by Stoke/Nayland on day two, but not enough in the high-pressure finals environment as Wolves were out for redemption. Having been the in-form team for the whole summer, Wolves had missed out on the silverware in the mid-season T20 final to ACOB and weren’t going to let another trophy slip out of their fingers.

The team is in action again

this weekend as they look to add another title to the trophy cabinet as the season culminates with the one-day finals. Wolves finished the regular season on top of the table, earning them a place in Sunday’s final, where they will face the winner of Saturday’s 2v3 semi-final between Wakatu New World Nelson City and Stoke-Nayland, who will be out for redemption of their own. With Saturday’s game at Marsden Recreation and Sunday’s final at Brightwater Domain, local cricket fans will get their fix as the White Ferns also head to town on Friday and Sunday.

Community Notices

MONDAY

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 / WEDNESDAY

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.

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.

KNIT & NATTER Wed, 10-12pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Hub, 10 Pah St. Friendly group for all ages. Includes refreshments. Ph: Roz 027415636. All welcome.

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.

WALK 4 HEALTH, Wed, 8.30m, Motueka Community Garden.

30-50 min walk at your own pace, for any age, any fitness and size. Ph:0273015598 or wellontrack@gmail.com

MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL invites all folk interested in community arts in Motueka, to their monthly meetings. 2nd Wed of month, 7pm, community house. Next meeting Wed, 20 Mar. Bring your inspiration & ideas for projects, activities, or events.

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.

WAIMEA HARRIERS welcome all abilities to join us for social running and walking on Wednesday evenings from Club Waimea Richmond at 5.45pm. See our website waimeaharriers.nz

AGE CONCERN TEA & TALK, Every Wed, 10.30am, The Shed, 24a Tudor St. More info Ph: 0279214074.

THURSDAY / FRIDAY

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

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. More info: Ph: Louise Petzold 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 every Thurs. More info Ph: 0212640403 e: secretary50pluswalkers@gmail.com, or www. motueka50pluswalkers.org.nz.

MOTUEKA LIGHTHOUSE Spiritual Group. Meet, last Thurs of month, 7-9pm, Motueka Community House, Opposite the ISite. Next Meeting, Thurs, 28 Mar, Animal Healing & Communication. Everyone welcome. Donation Appreciated. e: angel3000.h@ gmail.com or https://www.facebook.com/lighthousemotueka.

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY

50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: office@topsouthmedia.co.nz

RUMMIKUB Thurs, 1-4pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Club, 10 Pah St. Friendly group, includes refreshments. All welcome. Ph: Keith 0274516422.

THE DOCTORS MOTUEKA – Walking Group, Thurs, 9am, by the Janie Seddon Shipwreck carpark. Walking for 30 mins, suitable for all fitness levels. Make your daily walk more fun and meet new people. Ph: 035288358.

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meet 1st Thurs of the 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, The Genealogy Interest Group meets 2nd Fri, 2pm. Ph: Allan ‭0279711100 or visit www.seniornetmotueka.org.nz

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

ORCHID SHOW MOTUEKA, Sun, 24 Mar, 10-2.30pm, Motueka Library, Wallace St. The Nelson Orchid Society is presenting an Orchid Show. Sales table. Members displays. New members welcome. All welcome to come along to make the most of the sales table and displays. $2 entry fee. Eftpos available.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Sat, 10-12pm, Motueka Library. Free services, including copy certification and witnessing signatures are available.

GENERAL GROUPS

MOTUEKA STREET FLAGS: Entries close: 28 Mar, Motueka Arts council is seeking designs representing Motueka that are bold, bright and colorful. ENTRIES via- www.motuekaartscouncil. com or e: Motuekaartscouncil@gmail.com or txt 0210589388.

SALTWATER BATHS, Good Swimming this week. Next clean out Fri, 29 Mar, 8am. Refilled mid am.

ART EXHIBITION, Sat, 29 Mar – Mon 1 Apr, 10am – 3pm (until 1pm on 1 Apr), Pakawau Memorial Hall. Full moon group,

painting, photography, jewellery, fibre art.

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.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS. Is alcohol causing problems for your life? Want to stop drinking but can’t? Maybe we can help. Support meetings every day. Ph: 0800aaworks, 08002296757.

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP, If you have or have had breast cancer, come along to this friendly atmosphere. 102 Hardy St, Nelson. Reg: 035391137 or E: info@cancernelson.org.nz.

SUSTAINING TENANCIES Having trouble with your Tenancy?

Need help working things through with your landlord or tenant? Gateway Housing Trust. Info E: housing@ght.co.nz or Ph: 035457100.

NEED A LIFT? Mapua Willing Wheels Volunteer Drivers Service, affordable transport around Mapua, Motueka, Richmond, Nelson (no airport runs). To book Ph: 0226822373 or mapuawheels@gmail.com. 24 hrs’ notice required.

NELSON HOSPICE The Motueka shop needs volunteers! If you would like to volunteer for us, please enquire at the shop or Ph: 035281178.

RADIO CONTROL SAILING Wed and Sun, 1pm onwards, Best Island. Weather permitting. IOMs and Dragon Force etc. New members welcome. More 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.

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.

MOTUEKA SENIORNET Take advantage of the many interest groups offered. Join SeniorNet Motueka. To join, visit www. seniornetmotueka.org.nz, or Ph: Allan 0279711100.

MOTUEKA MENZSHED. Want to get out from under your wife’s feet? e: secretarymotmenzShed@gmail.com or just turn up at MenzShed, Marchwood Park, College Rd, Wed or Thurs 9-12pm.

MOTUEKA TRAMPING CLUB, would you like to go walking on the weekends but are not sure where to start? Start with your local club: www.motuekattrampingclub.org.

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, if you have or have had cancer, supporting someone with cancer, come and meet others in this friendly atmosphere. Ph: 035391137 or info@cancernelson. co.nz for info or to reg.

MULTICULTURAL MOTUEKA welcomes migrants and refugees every Tues & Fri, 8.30 -1pm, 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. Every Tues & Thurs, 9-11.30am. 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.

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.

Volleyball spikes across the region

KATE RUSSELL

A spiked interest in volleyball has seen more than 200 teams across five leagues take the court at Saxton Stadium this term - one of the highest participation rates the sport has ever had in the region.

From the social to the serious players, from Motueka to Nelson, Volleyball Tasman operations manager Belinda Koloamatangi says 216 players are taking the court this season.

“The numbers are increasing for us. We especially have noticed larger numbers coming through the social scene.

“Participation in the region has always been good, but we have definitely seen the increase in popularity.”

There are 74 teams in the college league, 47 in the intermediate league, 36 in the primary league, 21 in the NVL League, and 38 in the open social competition.

Belinda says Nelsonians both young and old are enjoying the social aspect of the game, and she notes how all sports are finally gaining momentum again in the “aftermath of Covid restrictions”.

“People are here to have a bit of fun and enjoy time with their mates with-

out the serious aspect of winning so much. People are enjoying getting active in a fun way.”

Belinda says they’ve also had a boost with success on the competitive side of things.

“Our Tasman u19 IPC Girls took away the silver at last year’s IPC and Waimea College has had great success, with the senior boys placing second at Nationals, and the junior girls winning the South Island champs.”

Nayland College also won gold at the Australian School Championships in December last year.

“Over the past year we have had numerous locals selected in national teams as well as securing scholarships to universities overseas,” Belinda adds.

Belinda says she would like to see the sport grow even bigger across the region.

“We would love to get ourselves out in the community more … being present around more schools to expose more youth to the fun sport of volleyball.

“We currently host tournaments for our school teams but would love to get a community social weekend tournament running at some point for any team to be able to enter and have a fun weekend.”

Finn Bryant waa the clear winner in the non-wetsuit series and Nia Linyard took out the women’s race. Photos: Ruth Leckey.

Beach battles for sea swimmers

PETER GIBBS

It’s been a few years since the Rylock Sea Swim series was held in a location other than the Nelson Yacht Club, but that was the case last Thursday. With the yacht club in full regatta mode, race 18 of the series was moved to Tāhunanui Beach. A series of buoys marked out a 750m loop, with the short race taking on one lap, while the longer swim did two, with a short wade to the beach between laps.

Finn Bryant showed his intentions by turning up in a wetsuit. The dominant swimmer in the non-wetsuit

category, Finn was interested to know how he’d go clad in neoprene. Like a rocket, was the answer.

Finn took on series leader Hayden Squance and pushed him all the way, conceding the win by 20 seconds.

Hamish Neill got slight revenge on Ben Marshall, the pair separated by a second at the finish. It was a bit of a grudge match, as Ben squeezed out Hamish in the season rankings by one point.

In the best-of-twelve series, Hayden was the clear series winner from Terry Bone, Gus Marfell, then Ben and Hamish.

Finn was the clear winner in the non-wetsuit series.

Lilly Claridge didn’t have to swim last night. She already has 13 wins so, like Hayden, gets her name on the winner’s trophy for the second consecutive year.

Nia Linyard took out the win in the women’s race at the beach, heading off her sister Keshia and the cunning Christina Harris.

In the season rankings, Keshia took second place ahead of Nia, with Christina close behind. Christina had no trouble winning the F60-69 age group competition.

Full results and information at nelsonseaswims.co.nz