An atmosphere of anger and disappointment hung over the Tasman District Council chamber last Thursday after it estimates it spent around $200k achieving “almost nothing”.
Councillors made clear they were “extremely frustrated” with the Government’s new rule that dictates how councils set speed limits and plan to push back on Transport Minister Simeon Brown. The rule, signed off by the Minister, blocks the district from lowering more than 100 speed limits despite the changes being consulted on and complying with the limits contained within the rule.
As a result, councillors grudgingly supported re-consulting the community on the changes that they already agreed to in July.
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WE BUILT THIS CITY: A Lego city with no name and a Marvel fling was showcased at the Top of the South Brick Show at the weekend by Motueka couple Bradley Richards and Leah Bullock.Their design, which featured Marvel’s The Daily Bugle newsroom as the centrepiece, went through an urban expansion using 60,000 Lego pieces for the couple’s second show. Bradley says the city was a combination of Lego sets he’d collected over several years. “It’s quite relaxing and fun to build and putting little stories with the mini figures throughout the city is quite cool as well,” he says. Photo: Gordon Preece.
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$200k achieving ‘almost nothing’
FROM PAGE 1
While the cost of re-consulting has not yet been calculated, it’s estimated that the council’s prior work on its now-ineffective speed management plan was about $200,000.
Councillor Chris Hill said the Government was being “disingenuous” by demanding councils cut back on spending while requiring the council to spend more money on re-consulting residents.
“I just find it really disrespectful and an immature approach actually.”
Councillor Christeen Mackenzie described the issue as “completely outrageous”.
“This has been a massive cost to our ratepayers and to this point we’ve actually achieved almost nothing. It’s so incredibly frustrating.”
“It’s infinitely frustrating. I’ve seen the amount of work that has gone into this and has basically gone with the stroke of a pen, and it’s quite heartbreaking,” Councillor Jo Ellis said.
Deputy Mayor Stuart Bryant, who also chairs the regional transport committee, lamented that the need to re-consult was setting the council and the com-
munity back.
“We’ve lost a year’s work and it’s beyond belief how frustrating this is, not only for us and the staff but the community that we’ve got to go through the process again,” he said.
“I have wondered at times if we should try pushing back on the Minister.”
Councillors around the table took up that suggestion, agreeing to write a letter to the Minister asking for approval to implement the speed limits the council has already consulted. However, transportation manager Jamie McPherson pointed out that most road-controlling authorities opposed the Gov-
ernment’s speed rule while it was a draft.
“We’ve had a voice already to tell the Minister what we thought. What’s changed now is that the final rule is actually worse than the draft that we submitted on.
Maybe getting our point across again would be cathartic for us, but I’m not sure it would have an effect.”
Local Democracy Reporting has previously asked Minister Simeon Brown why Tasman must re-consult on speed limits that were largely in-line with both residents’ submissions and the Government’s own requirements.
He didn’t answer those ques-
tions but highlighted that consultation on the Government’s new rule highlighted “broad support” with 65 per cent of submitters supporting the reversing blanket speed limit reductions.
One of the key reasons behind the need to re-consult is the requirement for each specific proposed speed limit change to be accompanied by a cost-benefit disclosure statement.
Tasman included a generic network-wide cost-benefit analysis in its original consultation but not analyses specific to each road. Variable speed limits outside of schools won’t need to be re-consulted on and must be implemented before July 2026. Dozens of speed limits were slated to be lowered at the end of January 2025 under the council’s original speed plan and will now be delayed pending the re-consultation process.
The council is proposing to re-consult on lowering speeds for several high-risk rural roads, as well as slower base speeds outside rural schools.
Deputy mayor Stuart Bryant said the district had been set back a year by the need to re-consult. Photo: Max Frethey.
Group fights for Upper Moutere path
ANNE HARDIE
A group of Upper Moutere residents are fighting for a safe pathway between the village and community centre to go ahead after it was shelved by the council.
Moutere Hills Residents Association chairman Nathan Silcock says the long-awaited path was going to be built this summer with funding from the Tasman District Council and New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA). That was until the Government slashed the budget for walking and cycling improvements. With the NZTA funding gone for the new path, the council deferred the $400,000 project until early 2026.
But Nathan says it is a safety issue and local residents are now lobbying the council to get it built this summer.
“Our concern is safety and we don’t want to wait because it’s an election year next year and will it then happen? So, we want it to happen now.”
He says there has been little debate on the delay of the project and he wants the community to
have a proper conversation with the council.
From the council’s perspective, its 10-year plan assumed NZTA would provide 51 per cent of the shared pathway which is a 1.3km gravel/concrete shared pathway for pedestrians and cyclists, aimed at providing a safe
route for school children as well as visitors. The council learnt in September that NZTA would no longer fund its chunk of the project and elected council members met last month where they decided it was not possible for the council to fund the entire project this year.
Council transport manager, Jamie McPherson, says that in order to limit increases to rates and debt levels, the council has made it clear that it cannot put additional funding towards the project in the 2024-25 year, which is why it aims to ensure the project is finished in 2025-26.
“We share the Moutere Hills’ community’s desire to see the completion of the Upper Moutere pathway within a reasonable timeframe.”
The council has stated that completing the project in the 2025-26 year effectively uses two yearsworth of council funding.
Nathan says he would like the council to consider spending some of next year’s budget in advance to get the job done.
“It comes down to priorities and we want them to work a bit harder on it. We’ve been wanting it long enough.”
The community has been lobbying for the path since 2008 and Nathan says the association was formed to get the job done. Negotiations with landowners took some time to get the strip of land to build the path, but Nathan says it is now time to build it.
“We’ve got a great sports centre 1.5km down the road from most of the community. There’s just nowhere to walk and it’s marginal for cycling. It’s a narrow, 100 kph road. If two cars are passing each other, you have to jump in the ditch.”
Nathan Silcock is urging the council to still build the Upper Moutere path this summer. Photo: Anne Hardie.
Motueka New World remembering days of cheques and coupon books
ELISE VOLLWEILER
Remember supermarket coupon books?
Stephen Stout certainly does. He’s a day-one employee of Motueka’s New World, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this month. Stephen started work at Motue ka’s Keystores, and then Pricecut ter, and he still remembers New World’s opening day, “back in the day when cheques were king”, he laughs. The store was selling sausages at 10c each, and he had to step in when two men start ed fighting over the last packet – “fisticuffs and everything,” he recalls. Ironically, Stephen has worked in every department ex cept the butchery during his ten ure. The full-on days are still the ones he loves the most.
“There’s always something happening,” he reckons.
Stephen reminisced with his fellow day-one worker Sandy Dadson about the early days, when their uniforms included ties and cravats (they much prefer today’s open-collared shirts, by the way).
They remember the photo booth that was tucked into the corner of the store, before the digital avalanche put paid to such services. The product lines have changed
too – the store originally could sell wine but not beer. Nicola
Hollyer, who together with her husband Simon has owned the store for two-and-a-half years, says that the shelves now show a much greater international influence, as New Zealand has progressed beyond the “reasonably basic mainstream cuisine” of the early 90s. There has been an evolution of gluten-free and organic foods, and they have also seen the exit of plastic bags at the check-outs – which now all have
conveyor belts and EFTPOS as a matter of course.
Not so much has changed in the produce range, according to Aaron Machon, the store’s assistant produce manager, who is another original New Word staff member. He started in the store at 17, and he remembers that New Zealand produce used to be much more seasonal, with imported items filling more gaps. Now-trendy avocadoes and swedes were slow sellers, and every produce item had to be weighed and stickered in the department – no such thing as check-outs with inbuilt scales.
Aaron also recalls the supermarket’s two extensions, forward and sideways, under owners Helen and Alister Clark, and later Bruce and Shelley Miller, who took over the business in 2004 before selling to the Hollyer’s in 2022.
The supermarket’s first Guardian ad is a window into a time when a box of Bell tea cost less
than $2 and bananas were 99c/ kg. The days of $10/kg porterhouse steak are also long gone, although a bag of Pams potato chips hasn’t changed too much from $1.49, and the cheapest bread has only crept up 30c from its 89c opening day price.
Nicola and Simon know that a
huge number of locals have links to the store and they are inviting their customers to join the birthday party by dialling back some prices to 1994 levels this week. On Thursday 21 to Saturday 23 November, shoppers can expect to pay the nostalgic price of $2.69 for a dozen eggs, $3.99 for a box of Nutri-Grain or a roll of Pieter’s salami, and 99c for a bottle of Pepsi or a kilo of carrots, onions or potatoes. Griffins gingernuts – the best-selling biscuit in the country, according to Stephen – will be available for $1.35 per packet. There has been no mention of whether sausages will be included in the specials. Nicola says that they are also offering a prize pool of more than $8000, which includes gift cards, a Weber barbeque, a coffee machine and an air fryer, as well as three grocery grabs. Customers can enter by swiping their club cards, which, in case you were wondering, took the place of those antiquated coupon books more than a decade ago.
Sandy Dadson and Stephen Stout are two of Motueka New World’s original employees, celebrating 30 years of service alongside the store’s 30th birthday this week. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
Motueka New World advertised in The Guardian during opening week 30 years ago. This week they recall 10c sausages and coupon books. Images: File.
The future is rosé at Spencer Hill
ELISE VOLLWEILER
A fusion of art and science is where the magic lies, according to the team behind Spencer Hill winery’s award-winning rosé.
The wine was fermented with pinot gris grapes, which is a variety that normally produces white wines. “A short period of skin contact and a twist of pinot noir grapes give the wine its perfect pale rosy glow,” says Spencer Hill winemaker Jules Randall.
That combination saw the vintage awarded the Wineworks Trophy for the nation’s champion rosé at the National Wine Awards Aotearoa in Auckland earlier this month.
Jules reckons he knew at first taste that they were onto something special with this one. “It was one of those wines that comes out of fermentation and just ticks all the boxes.”
As Spencer Hill owner Matt Rutherford summarises, “if you don’t have to play around with it, you know you’re probably onto something good.”
Spencer Hill, which also creates stock under the Latitude 41 wine label, has won plenty of other medals and trophies along the way, although usually it is their chardonnay that is picking up the accolades. The National Wine Awards Aotearoa is one of the country’s major honours, and the winery also won a gold medal for its 2024 Latitude 41 pinot gris.
Jules stays involved with the grape growers, working with Matt to sample grapes close to harvest to determine the perfect picking window. Working with a primary industry, every year brings a new challenge. “After 34 years, I’ve seen just about everything,” Matt says. Jules, who has been making wine with Spencer Hill for 14 years, says that 2024 was a wonderful year nationally for wineries and vineyards – “a bit of a dream run, really”. Spencer Hill produced about 3800 bottles of their 2024 rosé.
Spencer Hill winery’s Julian Randell and Matt Rutherford are toasting the success of their rosé at the recent National Wine Awards Aotearoa.
Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
$5000 of fuel for 55 years in Nelson
For 55 years NPD has been delivering and retailing fuel around the Nelson and surrounding regions and to celebrate, chief executive Barry Sheridan is giving away $5000 worth of fuel over five weeks in the lead-up to Christmas.
Barry took over full ownership of NPD in May this year after 33 years with the company, the last 15 as its chief. In that time Barry has overseen huge growth of NPD – or Nelson Petroleum Distributors – from just a couple of stations up to 114 to date, with 100 of those in the South Island.
Barry says a strong and committed team, operating within a flat management structure, a laser-focus on quality and a great team culture has fuelled NPD’s success.
“Everything we do we aim for the highest quality, if you look at our pumps, our canopies, our trucks, they are all of the very best standards. The ‘Southern Feast’ chicken range at our Refresh retail stores is proving extremely popular with our customers. Our positive reviews received from their experiences is awesome to hear.”
Barry lives on a 100 acre farm in Teapot Valley, near Brightwater, with his wife, daughter and son.
He says he spends most of his spare time with his family in the outdoors, fishing, whitebaiting, hunting and trying to keep up with his 12-year-old son on his motocross bike.
“We also have a few animals at our place in Teapot Valley so it all keeps us pretty busy.”
That sense of pride in the local community spills over from Barry’s private life to his company. Just last year, NPD donated more than 30,000 ‘Player of the
Day’ certificates and prize packs to local children playing various sports including netball, rugby, football, hockey, as well as supporting local mountainbiking and motocross groups.
He says the focus for NPD is on the youth and families within our communities.
“We love to give back to the youth, to encourage them and reward them when they apply themselves and work hard in what they are doing. We look to donate ‘player
of the day’ certificates in markets where we have our Refresh retail stores, so not just Nelson but Blenheim, Christchurch, Queenstown and other areas too.”
To celebrate NPD’s 55 years in Nelson, Barry says they will be giving away $1000 of fuel each week for five weeks at various NPD stations, including St Vincent St, Motueka, Parkers Rd, Brightwater and Lower Queen Street Richmond. Alongside free fuel, NPD will be running bar-
beques, giving away food, ice creams and other merchandise for their customers.
“We’re proud to be a 100% Nelson family-owned business. While we’ve been pretty aggressive about our growth strategy we haven’t lost sight of quality, innovation or integrity and all of that comes from our roots in Nelson so this is an opportunity to give back and say thank you to Nelson for supporting and helping make us the company we are today.”
The NPD Team want to show our sincere gratitude to the Nelson Tasman and surrounding communities for your support over the last 55 years. To show our appreciation, we’re throwing weekly celebrations at various NPD sites across our region—everyone’s invited!
$5,000 of FREE fuel to be won!
Join us for a 5-week series of special events at selected NPD sites around Nelson and Tasman. Turn up for a chance to win one of twenty $50 fuel prizes, along with loads of other exciting giveaways!
NPD owner and chief executive Barry Sheridan with his family at the motocross track, they are, from left; Barry, Fiona, Jake and Makayla.
Photo: Rhyce Barker.
Collingwood forms a jockey club
ROBYN PARKES
In response to an invitation to all interested in forming a Jockey Club at Collingwood, around 30 residents met at the Rockville Hall in December 1906 to discuss the matter.
It was resolved that it was desirable to form a club and that it would be called the ‘Collingwood Jockey Club’.
Mr G. James offered, free of cost, land of 10 or more acres for the racecourse near the Devil’s Dining Table, about two miles from the township for a period of up to 20 years on the condition that he could use it for grazing.
Following several more meetings throughout Collingwood and Bainham to gain the opinions of residents, a final meeting took place at Rockville on the 11th of
January 1907 to formally establish the club. G. H. Allan was appointed President, along with 15 other men who made up the committee. Also elected were Handicappers and Starters.
The first race meeting was to be held on Easter Monday but later postponed due to the lateness of the season and the unpreparedness of the course.
A new date of the 17th of March
A glorious spring day greeted last Sunday’s annual Motueka Steiner School fair, and the festivities rose to meet that vibe. The time-honoured Steiner wonderment was in store for the fair’s visitors, with musical entertainment, medieval games and a fairyland area all part of the offerings.
1908, St Patricks Day was set, and a full day of activities were planned, although the race meeting was an unregistered event. Admission prices were set at £1 for adults, 6d for children and 6d for horses.
The completed course was ¾ of a mile long with a straight a chain wide.
The straight was fenced off and enclosures developed for a saddling paddock, a horse paddock and other conveniences. By the day of the first meeting seating for visitors and a framework for an awning had been built.
Race day began with ideal weather conditions and was well attended by locals and visitors alike. The SS Wairoa ran a special trip from Nelson to Waitapu for the occasion.
The two bookmakers were very pleased with the volume of betting that came their way. Before the first race, which started at 11.30am, the president formally opened the racecourse recalling the hard work that had been un-
dertaken in establishing the Club and in building the course. The day was enjoyed by all those attending and was pronounced an unqualified success. Every race on the programme was well contested and created much excitement. The Cup race was won by ‘Lord Brassy’, owned by A Berry and the jockey, W Scott was presented with a riding whip. Other results - the double trotting events won by Matheson’s Squire’s Dandy, Maiden Race won by Hitchcock’s Edna, Farmers Plate won by Harvey’s Taitapu, Consolation race won by Hitchcock’s Off Chance and the high jump was won equally by McGowan’s Texas, Walker’s Black Bess and Hitchcock’s Dick. In the evening at Rockville the race ball and supper provided a perfect end to the day. Tickets for the evening cost £4 for a double ticket, £3 for a single and £1 for an extra lady. Music was supplied by Messrs Keoghan, McNeil and Isaac.
Photo: Talitha Walterfang.
John Bertrand Collectables Buying in the Motueka and Nelson Region This Week
Once again, the gold and collectables buyers from Wellington company John Bertrand Collectables are visiting the Motueka and Nelson Region this week. Mr Tony Grant from the company says, “If you are downsizing or wanting to dispose of things because they no longer serve any purpose to you or your family bring them in”. “This week will be a great opportunity to have any items you want to sell assessed by our buyers” said Mr Grant. Particularly wanted are Gold and Silver (in any of its forms) and Collectables such as Coins, Banknotes, War Medals, Old Wind-up Watches and other interesting Small Collectables.
“We are keen buyers, especially of the items in the list below” said Mr Grant.
“Nothing is too small for our consideration. We are just as happy buying 1 item as we are buying 1,000 items” he said. The buyers will be in the Motueka and Nelson Region this week (see details below).
As Tony Grant points out “If you are in doubt about any items you may wish to sell, bring them along for an instant appraisal.”
Gold & Silver At Near Record Prices
During these uncertain times we have seen a sharp increase in the price of precious metals. The gold price in New Zealand is at near record levels so gather up all your unwanted items and take them along to the buyers. Tony Grant says “We can buy old gold items in all forms, including Jewellery (Rings, Chains, Brooches etc), Coins (Sovereigns and the like), Alluvial (River Gold), virtually anything, even Gold Teeth! We also need all Sterling Silver including Cups, Tea Services, Cutlery and Old Coins” he said.
Interesting Small Collectables Wanted
The buyers from John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd, visiting the Motueka and Nelson Region this week, are happy to look at any interesting items, for example vintage pocket and wristwatches such as Rolex, Men’s Omega, Breitling and gold watches etc. Also wanted, pre 1950’s picture postcards, Maori and Pacific artefacts, old fountain pens and other small antique or historical items.
“If you have something unusual which you would like to sell, please bring it into one of our venues, we would like the chance to at least have a look at it” said Tony Grant, buyer for the Company. “We will consider anything which may be of interest to a collector” he said.
Some Big Dollars in Early Banknotes
E arly New Zealand Banknotes dated before 1932 are currently fetching big money! This is according to Mr Tony Grant, author of the John Bertrand New Zealand Coin & Banknote Catalogue
Mr Grant is in the Motueka and Nelson Region this week on a buying trip for John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd and would be very keen to see any of these issues. “We will pay at least $300 for any undamaged Ten Shilling or One Pound
banknote from a New Zealand trading bank dated 1932 or before.
Denominations of five pounds and higher would be worth from $700. “Any banknote dated prior to 1900 would be worth at least $1000” said Mr Grant. Also purchased are any Reserve Bank of New Zealand pre-decimal issues, especially 50 Pound notes. All overseas banknotes are also wanted, especially early Pacific Island issues.
Collectors Need War Medals
Currently, throughout NZ and the world there is a big demand by collectors for war medals. These cover all wars right through from the New Zealand Land Wars and the Boer War, to the First and Second World Wars and the later Korea and Vietnam conflicts. New Zealand Servicemen and Women first served overseas in the Boer War in South Africa around 1900 and the war medals awarded for this service are needed by the buyers, as are any other Medals from early New Zealand and the New Zealand Wars. General service medals from both the First and Second World Wars will also be purchased, but as can be imagined these were awarded in fairly large numbers. “If a group of medals has any special award for bravery such as the Military Medal, Military or Flying Cross or other medals for Distinguished Conduct or Meritorious Service, these can add great value to a group” stated Mr Tony Grant, buyer for John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd. “Many families have old medals, some dating back to early Imperial days, that they are not sure what to do with. These are better off in the hands of collectors who will look after them. We will be happy to look at any war medals whatsoever, just bring them in to venues” he said.
Old Coins Can Toss Up a Rarity
Do you have a bunch of old coins sitting around in your drawers and cupboards? You just never know what rarities may be lurking there. The advice from Tony Grant from John Bertrand (Collectables) Limited is to “bring them in and let us have a look”. “No need to sort anything out just bring them in ‘as is’ and please don’t clean them! We can go through coin accumulations and collections fairly quickly” he said. The buyers are particularly keen to buy pre 1946 New Zealand Silver Coins for at least 20 times their face value (more for quantity). “In any event we will buy All Coins,” said Mr Grant.
Out&About
Love life on your terms.
At Summerset there are fewer chores and more choice. So if you’re done with gardening, you can hang up your gloves. But if you’re a big fan of getting amongst the flowerbeds, there’s a community of green-thumbs just waiting to meet you.
Two-bedroom villas are available with flexible pricing from $666,100.* Plus, for a limited time, we’ll help you every step of the way with $2,000 towards your legal fees, a moving service package, and no weekly fees for six months. Simply sign a sales application for a selected home between 01 October 2024 and 31 December 2024, and then settle by 31 March 2025.#
Love the life you choose.
Open Days
Thursday 14 and 28 November, 10am - 2pm
Summerset Richmond Ranges 1 Hill Street North, Richmond 03 744 3432 | summerset.co.nz/richmond
The Salvation Army Nelson Tasman Bays proudly supports White Ribbon Day
Ready, steady, play at Decks
a story?
Add value to the way you live
Perfect for a standalone home or a second dwelling.
Versatile Nelson 03 544 5142
VersatileNelson | 03 544 5142
What about sunshades… don’t see many of them… considering we have the highest rate of skin cancer in the world...yet again commonsense does not prevail.
Leanne Ormsby
It was disappointing to walk through there at 6am Monday morning and see empty bottles and other rubbish scattered around the place.
Gary McGregor
Median barriers prove their worth
It’s been hit a lot more than five times.
Aimee Taylor
I think the question should be why are people crashing on such an easy piece of road?
Sandra Macfarlane
Be interesting to know circumstances for the 5 times they been hit.was it poor driving, inattention, weather, was there other vehicles involved. In some cases, the barriers may have caused more damage than they save Beanz Sandrey
Celebrating two decades of independent living
Congratulations, well done. Happy celebrating party.
Jinny Fowler
Fantastic so lovely to read, enjoy your celebration and all the best for another 20 years
Cheryl Brooks
Super read. Well done to all involved.
Lois Ronberg
What a heartwarming story.
Rose Linde
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Te Noninga Kumu - 32 Wallace St - 03 528 1047
Law For Lunch series – all 12pm-1pm Join Trevor Irwin from Nelson Community Law Wills – Wednesday 20 November
Enduring Powers of Attorney –Wednesday 27 November Trusts – Wednesday 4 December
Italian Renaissance Paper Craft workshop
Thursday 21 November, 10.30am-12pm
“Classics” Book Quiz – Thursday 21 November, 2pm-3pm
Bring friends, test your knowledge on “classic novels.”
Board games of all varieties – Friday 22nd November, 3.30pm-6pm Come and learn how to play new board games.
Godwits Talk with David Melville Friday 22 November, 6pm-7.30pm
Building Bricks Club – Monday 25 November, 3.30pm-5pm Our last session for the year with knowledgeable Adrian.
What is your favourite fair activity?
“The food because I really like experiencing different food cultures, it’s a really neat knowledge expanding experience.”
“Plant and vegetable stalls for local things that we can grow in our garden.”
“Buying plants, some things you can’t grow yourself so you’re better off buying them from [fairs].”
Richard Flatman Māpua
Michelle Heremaia Motueka
“Nail polish and getting a few bargains on cleaning products since I own a cleaning company.”
Jack Drummond Richmond
Suzie McQuoid Upper Moutere
TIPTRAILERS
•
November
WHITWELLS MENSWEAR
Mako finds new super rugby home
STEPHEN STUART
When Taine Robinson says “it is a pretty crazy story”, you just know it is worth hearing and sharing.
While Tasman was enjoying a break-out season, highlighted by winning the Ranfurly Shield, the utility back spent the whole time rehabbing.
“I was frustrated but I was happy for my teammates,” says Taine, whose year had started so promisingly.
He was on a wider training contract with the Crusaders and was elevated to the bench for two Super Rugby matches, first five against the Brumbies and fullback for Moana Pasifika.
The Collingwood-born player returned to Tasman with the message, another good NPC season was needed to be considered again for the Crusaders.
But disaster struck while playing for Stoke in the Nelson club rugby semi-finals.
“I injured my ankle and then kept reinjuring it,” reveals Taine, who has moved be-
Collingwood-born Tasman utility back Taine Robinson, pictured playing for his local Stoke team, is relieved to be thrown a Super Rugby lifeline by the Highlanders. Photo Barry Whitnall/Shuttersport.
tween Richmond and Motueka. The utility back missed all of the regular NPC season but was scheduled to return for the semi-finals.
Sadly, other injuries finally caught up with the Mako and the side was overwhelmed by Canterbury in the quarter-finals.
So, with the Crusaders no longer an option, the 24-year-old signed with the
Boston-based New England Free Jacks to play in Major League Rugby.
And that’s where the story takes a crazy twist.
“No sooner had I agreed to the American move, and was looking at a new adventure, than my agent Dale Cook came to me with a two-year contract for the Highlanders,” says Taine. “I was told getting out of the US deal could be a
Begin study this Feb
problem.”
Cue no nonsense Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph, who sorted everything out with his Free Jacks counterpart Ryan Martin, who used to coach in Otago.
“So now I am headed to pre-season training later this month in Dunedin where I have only been a couple of times previously.
Making the move even more exciting is the prospect of working with former All Black great Ben Smith, who is on the coaching staff.
Taine will have one familiar face with him in the south, Tasman’s best player this season, winger Timoci “Jim the Bus”Tavatavanawai.
“Actually, I call him by his other nickname – ‘the difference’. And he sure is on the field,” insists Taine, who might see playing time at fullback as another outstanding Fijian player Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens is on the injury list. Taine is one of 20 Tasman players named across seven sides in the 2025 Super Rugby draft.
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, Brass Band Hall, Old Wharf Rd. A 60-minute series of guided exercises done seated or standing, specifically designed to help those with breathing difficulties. Ph: Jess 0275467675.
MOTUEKA HIGHLAND PIPE BAND, Mon, 7pm. Band is located beside Motueka Recreation Centre. Promoting Scottish tradition and culture. Look forward to your participation. Info: Ph: 027284 8361.
MAPUA FRIENDSHIP CLUB. Indoor bowls, 1st & 3rd Mon. Mapua Bowling Club rooms. 2pm, Bring a plate of afternoon tea. Lots of laughs. Ph: Val 035403685.
TUESDAY
MOCKINGBIRDS MUSIC GROUP, Tues, 2-3.30pm, Senior Net, Pah St. If you enjoy some fun singing/playing music, come along with your instrument, we’d love you to join us. Beginners welcome. Ph: Sue 02102416155.
HOPE TENNIS CLUB SOCIAL TENNIS, Every Tues, 9.30am, Hope Tennis Courts, Hope Domain. All abilities most welcome. Queries Ph: 0211729257.
MOTUEKA BRASS, Tues Evenings. Discover your musical talent with us! Join our lively brass band for an unforgettable experience to join Ph: 021728168 or come along.
YOGA. If you have or have had cancer, we offer restorative yoga classes. Tues, 12.30pm. To Reg, Ph: 5287669.
WEDNESDAY
THE MOTUEKA HEART SUPPORT GROUP monthly get together, Wed 20 Nov, 10:15am, Motueka Library Community Room. Guest speaker will be Dr Claire Thurlow sharing with us
a Cholesterol Study she is involved in. For further info contact Janet Kelly ph: 0272296260.
WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ: 10am – 11.30am, Wed 20 Nov, Motueka Library. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities and services. www. wellby.org.nz 03 5467681.
AGE CONCERN TEA & TALK, Wed, 10.30am, The Shed, 24a Tudor St. More info Ph: 0279214074.
KNIT & NATTER Wed, 10-12pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Hub, 10 Pah St. Friendly group for all ages. Includes refreshments. All welcome.
WALK 4 HEALTH, Wed, 9am, Motueka Community Garden. 30-50 min walk at your own pace, for any age, any fitness and size. Ph:0273015598.
TOASTMASTERS MOTUEKA meet 1st & 3rd Wed of month, 6.45pm start, St John’s rooms, Jack Inglis Hosp, Courtney St. Gain speaking confidently, friendly environment. More Info Ph: Peter 0277468311.
MOTUEKA SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLUB, Wed, 7.30pm, Lower Moutere Hall. Keep fit while having fun. All ages, no partner needed. First time free. Enq Ph: Fay 0210393559.
SHARLAND CYCLES 5K FUN RUN & WALK from Club Waimea. Wednesday evenings till 18th Dec. Registration 5.30pm. Race briefing 6pm. More info www.waimeaharriers.nz
DEATH CAFÉ, 2nd Wed of month, 10-11.30am. Revite Café, 256 High St. An open space for people to talk about death and dying. e:margaret@margaretmccallum.com
THURSDAY
MEDITATION, Weekly meditation sessions open to all. Thurs, 12.15-12.45pm, Te Noninga Kumu - Motueka Library. During term time. No registration needed. Just come along. Info: Ph: Louise 0278789240.
NELSON BAYS HARMONY CHORUS, (women’s choir), is seeking new members to join our happy group. Thurs evenings, Club Waimea, Richmond. Ph: Carole 0274360910.
MOTUEKA 50+ WALKING GROUP Thurs. More info Ph: 0212640403 e: secretary50pluswalkers@gmail.com, or www.
DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY
50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: office@topsouthmedia.co.nz
motueka50pluswalkers.org.nz.
RUMMIKUB Thurs, 1-4pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Club, 10 Pah St. Friendly group, includes refreshments. All welcome. Ph: Keith 0274516422.
THE DOCTORS MOTUEKA – Walking Group, Thurs, 9am, by the Janie Seddon Shipwreck carpark. Walking for 30 mins, suitable for all fitness levels. Make your daily walk more fun and meet new people. Ph: 035288358.
NVC PRACTICE GROUP (NONVIOLENT / COMPASSIONATE COMMUNICATION), Every 2nd Thurs, 7-8.30pm, Motueka. In school term. For info e: margaret@margaretmccallum.com.
PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meet 1st Thurs of month, 1.30-3.30pm, Broadgreen House, 276 Nayland Rd. Ph: Bill 035448635 or 035391137.
MOTUEKA G.R.G 2nd & 4th Thurs, 1-3pm, St Andrews lounge, 64 High St. Support group welcomes grandparents/kin raising/ supporting grandchildren. Join us for a confidential relaxed and supportive time with others. Ph: 0211337299.
SENIORNET MOTUEKA. 2nd Thurs of month, 2pm. Hear all about a different country in our Countries & Cultures Interest Group. Join SeniorNet. Ph: Maureen 02102600432
FRIDAY
SENIORNET MOTUEKA, The Genealogy Interest Group meets 2nd Fri, 2pm. Ph: Maureen 02102600432
SENIORNET MOTUEKA, The Smartphone, iPad, iPhone and Tablet Interest Group meets 3rd Fri, 2pm. Ph Maureen 02102600432
SATURDAY / SUNDAY
TREWAVAS ST ART WALK. Sat, 30 Nov, 10- 3pm. Artists selling their creations direct to you! On rain or shine.
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Sat, 10-12pm, Motueka Library. Free services, including copy certification and witnessing signatures are available.
NELSON BRANCH OF ROYAL NZ AIRFORCE ASSOCIATION Meet 2nd Sat each month, 12pm, Club Waimea, Richmond, Phil’s Restaurant. Interesting speakers, raffles and members
interested in Aviation Ph: Trever Squires 039706644 or John Bethwaite 035476634. Cost of meal $25
HOUSIE: 1st and 4th Sat of month, 10 Pah St. Over 50s Social Hub. Ph: Jude 0273244226. All Welcome. Afternoon tea included. Cards $4. Raffles available.
GENERAL GROUPS
SALT WATER BATHS Lots of people swimming through the winter. You should give it a go.
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.
SURVIVORS AND THRIVERS GROUP, if you have or have had cancer, or supported someone else, come and connect. Ph: Maureen 5287669.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS. Is alcohol causing problems for your life? Want to stop drinking but can’t? 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.
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.
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.
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
ENCOURAGEMENT GRANTS of up to $500 for groups & Individuals with an art project involving our local community. Contact: motuekaartscouncil@gmail.com
MOTUEKA NEWCOMERS New to Motueka? We’re a social group, mostly retired (50+) who meet regularly and welcome newcomers. More info Ph: Jana 035284355.
MOTUEKA MENZSHED, Tues, Wed or Thurs 9-12pm, MenzShed, Marchwood Park, College Rd. Give the missus some space, come to the menzshed. Just turn up or e: secretarymotmenzShed@gmail.com.
MOTUEKA RED CROSS. Open Mon – Sat, 10-2pm, Community House. Donations of clothing, books, shoes, linen welcome.
MOTUEKA TRAMPING CLUB, A diversity of weekend day walks and multi-day trips suitable for a range of fitness levels. Visit www.motuekatrampingclub.org to learn more about your local Club, or e: membership.motuekatc@gmail.com for info on joining.
MOTUEKA DISTRICT TOY LIBRARY, Tues, and Thurs, 9-11am, and Sat, 10-12pm, 44 Pah St. Annual membership $30. Hundreds of toys for all ages.
MOTUEKA RIDING FOR THE DISABLED We need more volunteers to help with therapeutic riding sessions. Tues, Wed, Thurs, 8.30-1pm. Ph: 0211151720 or e: info@motuekarda.nz. MOTUEKA TENNIS CLUB. INC. Social Tennis, Tues & Thurs, 9.30am, Sun, 2pm. Courts behind the Memorial Hall Pah St. Racquets available to borrow for new Members.All welcome. MULTICULTURAL MOTUEKA welcomes migrants and refugees every Tues, 8.30-1pm, Fri, 8.30 -2pm, Community House, Decks Reserve. We provide connection and practical assistance for newcomers to our region as well as support for all cultural activities happening in our community. Ph 027 5286744 or sez@multiculturalnt.co.nz.
NEED A LIFT? Mapua Willing Wheels Volunteer Drivers Service, affordable transport around Mapua, Motueka, Richmond, Nelson (no airport runs). 24 hrs’ notice req. To book Ph: 0226822373. mapuawheels@gmail.com.
NELSON HOSPICE The Motueka shop needs volunteers! If you would like to volunteer for us, please enquire at the shop or Ph: 035281178.
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.
Bring your friends for a fun evening. Tuesday 26th November at 7pm Motueka RSA.
All proceeds for Inner Wheel. $3 entry. 6 members per team. Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. Great raffle prizes. Meals and bar available. RSA CHARITY QUIZ
agencies, businesses and community organisations, this programme offers progressive courses, delivered in 10 week blocks, during work hours. $280+GST pp.
“The learning that happens in the real, as opposed to the virtual, classroom is unparalleled.”
23rd-24th
9AM - 2PM WILKINSON ST, MOTUEKA Wet or Fine
521 MAIN ROAD, Bit of everything.
KENNEDY
David
16 December 1932 -
2 November 2024
On Saturday November 2, 2024, peacefully at Bethsaida Retirement Village. In his 92nd year. Dearly beloved husband of Jennifer, much-loved father of John and Janine, Kate and Jan, and Liz and Cookie. Much-loved stepfather of Rebecca and Caroline. Beloved grandfather of Alex, Ollie, and Kari-Moana; Issy, River and Fred; Leilani, and Kahu. Mayor of Motueka Borough Council 1974 - 1983. We thank him for his life of service. Messages may be sent to the Kennedy Family, c/Bethsaida Rest Home, 66 Litchfield Street, Blenheim 7201. A private celebration of David’s life, in accordance with his wishes, will be held at a later time.
Rest in peace Evelyn, Julie (Dec), Allison and Paul. DEATH
DEATH IN LOVING MEMORY OF Phillip Turei FRY
FRY
Phillip Turei Passed away 7th November in Dunedin aged 64. Loved son of Phil and the late Tilly. Treasured Grandson of the late Violet Fry. Dearly loved brother of Tawai - Wellington and Dean (Mickey)French Foreign Legion. Cremation Service has been held in Duedin with Family and Friends.
Leftbranch, Riwaka Valley
and living facilities. Would also consider a
tions
situation. All enquiries and questions welcome, please call me on Ph: 027 451 6611
TOOLS WANTED
TOOLS WANTED
Hand garden & garage tools modern and old SMALL - ESTATE LOTS 0800 559 922
Hand garden & garage tools modern and old SMALL - ESTATE LOTS 0800 559 922
OLD TOYS WANTED
OLD TOYS WANTED
Dinky, Fun Ho, Tonka, Matchbox Dolls, Lead Soldiers, Hornby Train + Meccano Sets SINGLE ITEMSWHOLE COLLECTIONS 0800 559 922
Dinky, Fun Ho, Tonka, Matchbox Dolls, Lead Soldiers, Hornby Train + Meccano Sets SINGLE ITEMSWHOLE COLLECTIONS 0800 559 922
VINYL RECORDS WANTED Old 1920s 1990s Classical - Modern Seekers, Abba, Pink Floyd and any NZ bands SMALL - LARGE LOTS 0800 339 990
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Classical - Modern Seekers, Abba, Pink Floyd and any NZ bands SMALL - LARGE LOTS 0800 339 990
ENGLISH CHINA & NZ POTTERY WANTED Old 1920s 1990s Crown Lynn, Doulton, Beswick, Temuka, Royal Albert and others SMALL - ESTATE LOTS 0800 559 922
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STERLING SILVER WANTED
STERLING SILVER WANTED
Vesta Cases, Tea & Cutlery sets old trophies ANY SILVER ITEMS CONSIDERED 0800 559 922
Vesta Cases, Tea & Cutlery sets old trophies ANY SILVER ITEMS CONSIDERED 0800 559 922
FOUNTAIN PENS WANTED
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NZ - Exotic skins, heads, birds & mounted animals ANY CONSIDERED 0800 559 922
CAMERAS
Conway Stewart & Parker style ANY CONSIDERED 0800 559 922 MILITARY ITEMS
Conway Stewart & Parker style ANY CONSIDERED 0800 559 922 MILITARY ITEMS
BOOKS BOOKS BOOKS WANTED Fiction & Non-fiction Modern & Old SMALL - ESTATE LOTS 0800 339 990
BOOKS BOOKS BOOKS WANTED Fiction & Non-fiction Modern & Old SMALL - ESTATE LOTS 0800 339 990
NZ - Exotic skins, heads, birds & mounted animals ANY CONSIDERED 0800 559 922
BANKNOTES & COINS WANTED Pennies, Threepences and Sixpence NZ & Foreign ANY CONSIDERED 0800 559 922
BANKNOTES & COINS WANTED Pennies, Threepences and Sixpence NZ & Foreign ANY CONSIDERED 0800 559 922
Sprinter defends masters titles in Brisbane
STEPHEN STUART
Not even an achilles tendon injury could stop remarkable Motueka athlete Joeline Jones going unbeaten at the Pan Pacific Masters Games in Queensland.
The track events were switched from the Gold Coast to Brisbane and while times were faster, the attrition rate was higher.
Having defended her 100-metre title on the opening day, Joeline started to feel a niggle in her achilles tendon and calf muscle in the warm up before the 200m on day two.
“The track surface was really hard,” reveals Joeline, who still went on to retain her title in the 40 to 44 year age group.
Fortunately, the early childhood teacher has become accustomed to dealing with injuries and backed up again on the third day to win not only the 60m dash but the 400m as well.
Her experience showed as she paced herself through her longest race.
That highlighted the 43-yearold’s durability and versatility as none of her rivals took on the 60m-400m double.
So for the second time, she swept the competition in all four sprints at the masters to retain her crowns.
“Even coming home injured, it was still worth it as I caught up with so many old friends,” says Joeline. The Motueka masters marvel credits much of her success to coach Tony Aikenhead, who is best known for his work with young sprinters. In fact, she regularly races against the teenagers at Athletics Nelson events.
“Tony is the best coach in the top of the South Island and I am his only master,” declares Joeline, who was encouraged to return to the sport in her mid-thirties after playing touch football.
“I am running faster in my 40’s than my 30’s. Tony taught me how to do that.”
Often her biggest threat is injuries. It wasn’t her first achilles problem and add to that ankle, calf, quad and hamstring issues over the years. At least her
knees are holding up.
“Generally when I suffer an injury, I manage it only to get a different one when I come back,” laments Joeline. She was sidelined from last October to January this year but just keeps bouncing back.
“It does get harder as you get older, but I want to keep competing as long as my body allows,” vows Joeline. She’s already busy saving leave for her next mission, the World Masters Games in Taipei in May.
inspired GET
STEPHEN STUART
Distance runners preparing for the inaugural Spectacle event in Nelson next month have been provided with the ideal lead-in this weekend.
The second staging of the Edridge Contracting Teetotal Traverse, near St Arnaud-Lake Rotoiti, consists of a half marathon, 13 kilometre and 8k trail runs and walks.
“Last year we had up to 160 starters and we are expecting about 200 this time, mainly Nelson and Marlborough runners,” says the organising committee’s Graeme West of Coastal Classic fame.
It is still very much a boutique event at this stage with competitors navigating the Teetotal-Big Bush DOC conservation area. Graeme reports that years ago the black beech-laden Big Bush Forest was once labelled not fit for man nor domestic beast. How times have changed as promoters now proclaim the area is a must visit, thanks to track building by the MTB Trails Trust and pest control by Friends of Rotoiti.
Both groups will benefit from funds raised by Sunday’s event. Entries close tomorrow and Graeme reports, as usual, many Nelson runners seem to be leaving it to the last moment to sign up. Although Lochmara Half Marathon vintage champion Liz Coke confirms she is already registered after winning the Queen Charlotte Sound trail race earlier this month.
Joeline Jones, right, battles the pain barrier on her way to winning the 200 metres at the Pan Pacific Masters Games. Photo: Supplied.
