Nelson Weekly - 22 March 2023

Nelson

Locally Owned and Operated

Wednesday 22 March 2023

Weekly

Finding new feet

7.2 per cent rates rise considered

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

A 7.2 rates hike is on the cards for the city’s residents Nelson City Council has said. The increase is one of five significant changes to council’s Long Term Plan that will go out for public consultation on 29 March.

Other changes to the plan relate to the storm recovery work, the future of the new library, upgrading city centre infrastructure, and the proposed housing development in the Kākā Valley. Here’s an overview of what council is proposing:

Rates:

Like everyone else, councils around the country are grappling with rising interest rates and inflationary pressures which makes it difficult to keep rates increases low. Add into the mix council’s estimated repair bill for the August weather event of about $35 million (after recovered costs from insurance and government), the proposed rates increase of 7.2 per cent will greater than desired for many.

Council’s Long Term Plan 2020/21, forecast the inflation rate in 2023 to be 2.5 per cent, however inflation is actually more than 7 per cent which is the main reason why the proposed increase is so high. “Council is very aware that households and businesses are currently under huge financial stress,” Mayor Nick Smith says. “We are not big enough to counter the broader impacts of sharply

SEE PAGE 4

It was a display of skill and festivity at Neale Park as Nelson’s multicultural football festival was in full swing over the weekend. In the hotly contested final, it was the FC Nelson Wannabees who came out trumps over the Chin team, while the Bhutanese won the Plate final, the Chin seconds won the Bowl final and the Karenni Youth won the shield final. The Khmer Khmer Krom won the Spirit of Football award. Pictured are members of the Chin Team A (blue) and the Chin Team B (red). Top row from right: Phun Thawng, Bawi Min, Ram Cung, Thawn Pi, Bawi Cung. Front row from right: Siang Lian, Lianpi, Canaan. Photo: Barry Whitnall/Shuttersport.

• Residential, farm and commercial sales and purchases

• Subdivision

• Building contracts

• Company law and business formations

• Trusts

• Wills and estates

REGISTERED LEGAL EXECUTIVE (DipLExSt)

92 Collingwood St, Nelson Ph: 546 8670 or 0274 312 874 belinda@stallardlaw.co.nz

EXPERIENCE EFFICIENCY INTEGRITY

“One

“My mum broke her knee on the sidewalk. She’s legally blind and my neighbour found her and called emergency services.”

“My mum was ill with brain cancer and we had so many neighbours bring great food and gifts.”

What’s the most memorable thing a neighbour has done for you?

“We went away on holiday together to Egypt.”

Man died after colonoscopy, surgeons didn’t know medical history

A man died in Nelson Hospital after a colonoscopy was performed without surgeons knowing the man only had one lung. The Health and Disability Commissioner (HDC) has found that Te Whatu Ora Nelson Marlborough, previously known as Nelson Marlborough DHB, as well as one of its general surgeons, failed in their duty of care for the man. The findings, released on Monday, say the man, in his 60s, presented to Nelson Hospital’s Emergency Department where he was treated for a heart attack in 2018.

After two more visits during the following fortnight, he underwent an acute colonoscopy to investigate ongoing gastrointestinal bleeding.

During the procedure he suffered a peri-respiratory arrest and arterial bleeding and had to be intubated.

He was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

It was later discovered that he had suffered a perforation to his bowel during the surgery which then led to sepsis.

“The family were notified of these findings and made aware of the diagnosis of sepsis due to bowel perforation and that this was certainly related to the bowel wall being damaged during the colonoscopy,” NMDHB told the HDC.

“In consultation with the ICU team and family a ‘not for resuscitation’ in the event [Mr A] suffered a cardiac arrest was jointly decided.”

The man continued to deterio-

rate, and he subsequently passed away.

Commissioner Morag McDowell found Te Whatu Ora Nelson Marlborough and the surgeon breached the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights (the Code) in their care for the man.

The patient had several co-morbidities including a prior lung removal to treat lung cancer.

This history was relevant in guiding clinical decision making. However, the surgeon was not fully aware of the patient’s medical history at the time the colonoscopy was performed.

McDowell concluded that Te Whatu Ora Nelson Marlborough did not communicate effectively to ensure the coordination of the man’s care.

In particular, there was no nurse-

to-nurse handover from the ward to the endoscopy suite and the endoscopy team was unaware the man only had one lung until serious difficulties were encountered.

Oversights around communication and handover of care meant the endoscopy team were not able to consider the implications that the missing lung might have on the sedation dose chosen and removed the opportunity for a different approach to the patient’s sedation and procedure.

“While individual staff members hold some degree of responsibility for their failings, I consider that the deficiencies outlined indicate a service level communication breakdown at Te Whatu Ora Nelson Marlborough, for which it bears responsibility at an organisational level,” McDowell said.

McDowell found the surgeon in breach of the Code for failing to review the man’s clinical notes prior to the procedure.

“As this Office has stated previously, the onus is on the clinician to ask the relevant questions, examine the patient and keep proper records,” she said.

McDowell made a number of recommendations including for Te Whatu Ora Nelson Marlborough and the surgeon to provide written apologies to the patient’s whānau.

However, she also acknowledged that significant and useful internal recommendations have already been undertaken by Te Whatu Ora and the surgeon as a result of their own review of these events. Te Whatu Ora Nelson Marlborough accepted the proposed recommendations.

Jim Fowler

side came over and

troduced themselves

the other, when I’ve seen them they look away.”

Stephen Heckert

Margaret Hulson

Blake Crosby

Belinda Clark

SARA HOLLYMAN

Nelson’s new buses delayed

Nelson Tasman’s brand-new bus service will now start on 1 August due to a delay in the arrival of new electric buses for the service.

Nelson City Council group manager infrastructure, Alec Louverdis, says the buses are already on their way from overseas, but due to delays related to access to international ports, it will take eight weeks to make the journey by sea.

“It is disappointing that our community will have to wait a bit longer, but when it does start, this service will be a gamechanger,” he says.

Examples of the benefits bus users will experience include:

- From August 1, prices will reduce to a $2 flat fare for journeys within Nelson and Richmond area (cheaper if you have a concession).

- Urban buses every half hour, 7am to 7pm, 7 days a week.

- Simplified routes – less changing bus.

- New routes to Motueka and Wakefield from Nelson and Richmond that cover Mapua and Brightwater as well.

- A regular airport bus service that connects with The Brook, city centre and Tāhunanui.

- Electric buses – helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

- Digital displays and a better app giving people real-time

information about arrivals and departures.

“When the new $2 flat fare is introduced a trip from Richmond to Nelson and back for work now costs less than the petrol you would spend as a single occupant in a car,” Alec says.

“It’s even comparable if there are two (or more) people in the car. All urban routes (that’s routes 1-4) that operate within Nelson and Richmond will go every half an hour from 7am to 7pm, including weekends.

That feeling of getting to the bus stop and realising there’s no bus for an hour or more will be a thing of the past.”

New routes in Tasman includes buses that will go as far afield as Motueka and Wakefield, offering a genuine alternative to commuters who make the long drive on a regular basis.

Buses out to Motueka will

make four round trips a day, Monday – Friday, between 7am and 7pm.

The Wakefield route will run six times a day. The buses become an express service once they reach the Richmond interchange.

From here they will only stop at Nelson Hospital and then Nelson City Centre – so they are a pretty quick way to for people to get to work in our major centres.

Urban routes have been simplified.

This means council has essentially joined routes together, so people change buses less often. For instance, the old routes 3 (Atawhai) and 5 (Hospital) are combined into route 3 in the new system.

A passenger from Atawhai heading to the hospital will no longer have the hassle of changing bus.

Councillors and bus representatives made the announcement last year. Photo: Supplied.

Movies

7.2 per cent rates rise possible

FROM PAGE 1

rising costs. The best council can do is not make the problem worse.”

The Annual Plan Taskforce, chaired by councillor Mel Courtney, has worked over the past three months to try and limit the rate increase, council says. Savings have been found by not progressing with the new riverside library, and there have been $4.1 million in general operational savings. Maintenance budgets are also planned to be reduced. While no specific services have been targeted, residents may notice small decreases in the standard of services across the board.

Additionally, about 11 per cent of council’s income from rates in the past has come from the uniform annual general charge – the flat fee all ratepayers pay. Council is proposing this is reduced to 8.7 per cent instead to help spread the impact of the increase more equitably.

Last year’s rates increases saw some significant changes in people’s rates with some

individuals seeing increases of 30 per cent, and some businesses seeing increases as high as 50 per cent. Those changes were sparked by a recent land revaluation, which has not taken place this year and so there should be no drastic jumps of that scale.

Storm Recovery: Council is proposing to spend $11.5 million on storm recovery works over the next financial year. Total recovery work is planned to take six years, but paid for over 10 years. The choice to pay for the repairs over the course of a decade is proposed to balance the need to spread the cost for ratepayers and to pay off the repairs before the next major storm event. Long-term repayment periods of multiple decades are generally reserved for capital projects with an intergenerational benefit.

New Library:

Council has stopped the plan for a new library facility on Halifax St, but Nick has previously said the Elma

Turner Library will need to be replaced in the future.

Council had set aside $17.8 million for the designing and initial construction of a new library. Most of that money has now been reassigned to other areas, except for $200,000.

Those funds are proposed to be used to conduct further community engagement and investigate an alternative site for a new library in the city-centre that would have less flood-risk than the river-adjacent location and likely result in a cheaper building.

Infrastructure Acceleration Fund:

Nelson City Council was previously awarded $36 million from the Government to undertake several major infrastructure upgrades to enable 1,000 new homes in the city centre. Those upgrades include storm-, waste-, and drinking water upgrades, and a plan for a linear park along Bridge St, which will turn the street into a shared space for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles with a playground

where the current bus depot is located. Council is proposing to bring forward $3 million worth of funding so it can start the engagement and design work on these projects otherwise council risks losing the funding. Council expects $1.9 million of that cost will be retroactively funded by central government.

Kākā Valley Housing Development:

Finally, council proposes $606,000 is allocated to provide utility and transport connections to Kākā Valley for the planned housing development.

Though the private plan change that would allow the development to go ahead has been appealed and is going through the Environment Court, council needs to have funds allocated in case the development is given the green light to go ahead. Council won’t spend any money on expanding infrastructure to Kākā Valley until the court case is decided. The cost of this infrastructure will be split between council and the developer.

Nelson teachers speak up

KATE RUSSELL

Nelson kindergarten teacher Ginny Preston-Hunter wants to be heard. She, along with hundreds of other local educators, assembled at the Cathedral Steps last Thursday as part of nationwide strike action.

It was the first-ever strike involving kindergarten, primary, and secondary school teachers and thought to be the biggest ever in New Zealand history.

The members of the Post Primary Teachers Association and the New Zealand Educational Institute took the action after rejecting similar offers including pay rises of $6000 - $7000 over two years.

Ginny, who is a teacher at Auckland Point Kindergarten, says she started teaching in the early 1990s.

“Back then we worked hard, but there was give or take. We had decent holidays. Over the years the conditions have been eroded and the workload has increased.”

Ginny says, in a previous teaching role she would have to put aside one day at the weekend for assessments.

“I’d be coming home from work to write learning stories. We work on the floor all day, only to have to keep working. I just feel like there is never enough time to do anything well.”

Ginny says, at the end of the day it is the children that miss out.

“Our children are deserving of the best of education and care and their learning conditions are our working conditions.”

Ginny says kindergarten teachers have prioritised four key areas they would like to see addressed.

“The first is head teacher disparities. Head teachers carry a huge workload and responsibility but only get paid $52.62 a week more than other teachers.”

The second issue, Ginny says, is sick leave - which has been exacerbated by Covid-19.

“Another is how relievers are paid. Relievers at kindergarten are only paid up to a certain point. We need

relievers, we have a reliever shortage. That has been a massive stress with Covid-19.”

The other issue is recognition for Māori kaiako.

“Our Māori kaiako need to share their expertise and get recognition for the time they are putting in.”

teachers.”

Crossing time extended at Main Road Stoke/Songer Street intersection

A pedestrian radar at the intersection of Main Road Stoke and Songer Street is expected to go live this week. The radar will detect pedestrians on the crossing and hold the crossing phase for longer before vehicles are given a green light to turn, giving pedestrians more time to cross the road safely. The radar will only affect the crossing between the Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre and the Strawbridge Mall as this crossing sees more pedestrian movements than the others. Other potential changes to the intersection will be investigated by Nelson City Council as part of the expansion of the bus network on 1 July.

Stoke youth crime meeting

Ginny says that being out at the rally last Thursday was “monumental”.

“I’d just like to say how good it was for all teachers to get together and show solidarity. It was monumental to be alongside primary and secondary

A busy week in Nelson

Meanwhile, Nelson Central School principal of seven years, Pip Wells, is using her voice to address pay parity issues. She wants primary school principals to be remunerated at the same rate as secondary school principals. “The job has become increasingly complex, the needs of families and students are much greater, especially after a series of crises such as Covid-19, and floods. “It has become difficult to attract people into principalship.” Pip says that principals also need more support “so we can do our job”. “We all want the same thing, which is a better deal for our kids, and are hoping the Government will listen.”

It was fantastic to attend Nelson’s Multicultural Festival on Sunday and celebrate the diverse cultures that make up our region My thanks to everyone involved in putting on an amazing eventI’m so pleased the sun was shining!

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins is in Nelson this week We are visiting some of Nelson’s flood affected areas so that the Prime Minister can see the progress we’ve made with the clean-up, the work still to be done, and areas of Nelson that need more investment infrastructure We are also meeting with local businesses and the Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce followed by a visit to Richmond

From April 1, we re significantly increasing support for seniors, students, beneficiaries, and families Superannuation is increasing, so that a couple who are both aged over 65 will receive $102 84 extra per fortnight and a single person living alone will receive an extra $66 86 per fortnight We’re also raising main benefits so that a family with children will receive an extra $40 86 per week and a sole parent will receive an extra $31 83 per week The minimum wage will go up to $22 70 on April 1, lifting the incomes of thousands of workers

While these measures won’t solve everything, they will make a difference for many Nelsonians - and right now, I know every bit helps

Locals will have the chance to discuss youth crime in Stoke at a community meeting on Friday. Nelson MP Rachel Boyack will host the meeting after becoming aware of resident’s concerns around the spate of crime in the suburb. She says she has followed up the concerns with police and youth services. “Given the communities concerns, and to allow Police and schools to share their views and what they’re doing, I will be holding a public meeting,” she says. Any interested Stoke residents, businesses and community organisations are invited to attend this meeting. “My intention is to have a constructive meeting with the community,” she says. The meeting will be held at the Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre on Friday 24 March at 5.30pm. Anyone with concerns is invited to attend.

Local kindergarten teacher Ginny Preston-Hunter spoke at the teachers’ strike rally last Thursday.

Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Hundreds of teachers assembled last Thursday. Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Let there be light

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

Lighting is finally coming to the Railway Reserve to guide the way for cyclists and pedestrians in the dark hours of the night and winter.

Bevan Woodward, convenor of Bicycle Nelson Bays, says it’s “fantastic” news.

“It’s so important, it’s such a popular route for people cycling between Stoke and Richmond into town.”

Phase one of the project focuses on the section of the Railway Reserve from Beatson Road to St Vincent Street. Work began on Monday and is expected to take 16 weeks.

Nelson City Council is advising commuters to expect minor delays of up to five minutes as they will need to be escorted through the worksite by contractor staff.

But council’s group manager infrastructure, Alec Louverdis, says delays are planned to be kept to minimum by generally keeping work between 9am and 3pm every day to avoid busier commuter times. The works will also be limited

to 150-metre sections and the path will never be completely shut off.

“Our aim is that everyone who wishes to use the Railway Reserve will be able to do so, noting the possible delays,” he says. “For those who wish to skip the disruption altogether, alternative routes mostly through the traffic-calmed streets in Nelson South will be available.”

Though he says it’s good news, Bevan thinks the lighting is “well overdue” and the time it’s taken for the lighting to be installed highlights a “double standard” in how active modes of transport are prioritised.

“We always light up every urban road, and how long has the Railway Reserve been there unlit?” he asks. “It shows that there can be a double standard by council in terms of how it prioritises safety for road users.”

Now that it’s being installed, Bevan urges council to keep up the momentum.

“You’ve got a good thing happening here, let’s keep rolling it out across of this network.”

The first stage of the project

between Beatson Road and St Vincent Street is expected to cost $529,000.

Alec says council intends to use the Government’s Three Waters Better Off Funding to extend the project along the rest of the Reserve from Beatson Road to Saxton Field. He adds that work is underway on the design on the rest of the lighting with the rest of the project aimed to continue in the 2023/24 financial year. The lights will be turned on in stages so commuters will get to benefit from the new lights well before the first stage is completed.

The lights will be LEDs that meet Waka Kotahi’s standards for light spill and glare, and also adhere to the principals of the International Dark-Sky Association. Light spill has been taken into the design and meets the requirements set out in the Nelson Resource Management Plan.

Works have begun to install lighting along the Railway Reserve between Beatson Road and St Vincent Street. Photo: Max Frethey.

Connecting neighbours in Nelson

KATE RUSSELL

Martine Bouillir wants Nelsonians to get to know their neighbours a little bit better.

March is ‘Neighbours Month’ and Martine, who is the local connector for Neighbours

Aotearoa, is encouraging people to organise a catch-up in their neighbourhood.

“We want people to register their events, big or small,” she says.

“Even if they have an event already organised, we can help them register it. It helps us build a picture of where people are connected.”

Neighbours Aotearoa (formerly Neighbours Day Aotearoa) is a community development initiative dedicated to growing, connecting, and strengthening neighbourhoods across the country, that started in 2009.

Now spanning the entire month of March, Martine’s vision is to eventually see it be-

come a year-round initiative.

The theme for Neighbours Month is ‘Let’s Share’.

Martine says that things like community gardens and Pataka Kai (excess food stand in your street) are a great way to share and connect with your neighbours.

“We would love people to get more creative though,” she says.

“People could do seed swaps, house and garden visits, tool sharing, a BBQ or potluck meal - or even just pop a note in your neighbours letterbox inviting them over for a cuppa,” she says.

Other ideas could be book swaps, neighbourhood working bees, or even a communal compost container.

There are resources on the Neighbours Aotearoa website that can help people get started, such as postcards, invites, posters, stickers and more.

“What we’ve been going through … weather events,

financial hardship ... it’s really good to know who might be a little bit lonely in your neighbourhood,” says Martine. This is the first time Nelson has had a local connector and Martine has partnered with the Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre in Stoke for a ‘Neighbourhood Aotearoa Community Open Day’ this weekend.

The event is happening on Saturday, 25 March, from 9.30am - 1.30pm.

Martine says it will give locals a chance to make connections with local services, and people will be able to have a go at exercise classes and share food. There will also be entertainment on offer and a bouncy castle for the little ones.

To find out more information, find resources or register an event this Neighbours Month, go to www.neighbour saotearoa.nz or email mar tine@neighboursaotearoa.nz

Martine Bouillir from Neighbours Aotearoa wants Nelsonians to get to know their neighbours a bit better this March. Photo: Kate Russell.

Finding new feet for donated sneakers

KATE RUSSELL

Nelson Intermediate School students are on a mission to help other kids into the perfect pair of sneakers.

‘Lazy sneakers’ is a sneaker donation and distribution service. It works like this - people donate their old sneakers and then they are redistributed back into the community for those who need them.

The idea was developed in 2017 by 12-year-old Maia Mariner in Wellington when she noticed her peers couldn’t participate in sports because they didn’t have the right footwear. The initiative

is now running all over New Zealand.

Nelson Intermediate School teacher Tony Jenkins is heading the initiative for the Nelson region.

“We will collect shoes here at school and at Jack Robins Basketball Stadium and give them out to those in need,” he says.

“The whole idea of Lazy Sneakers is that if you no longer are using old shoes they are now ‘lazy’ and therefore could be donated.”

He says the idea is to start small within the school but then eventually donate shoes out into the wider community.

This is the third time the school has run the initiative.

“In 2021/2022 we reactivated a total 210 pairs of shoes back into our own community with a large number of them being students here.”

Student Felix Heathfield says so far, they have received 31 pairs of sneakers in their first week of collecting. Anyone can donate sneakers, just drop them into the school office on Tipahi St. Shoes need to still be in good condition, e.g, no holes. If you need some sneakers, email Tony at tjenkins@nelsonintermediate.school.nz to find out how to get a pair.

Britt Spencer battled adversity and rough seas in an almost eight-and-a-half hour marathon to paddle the 33km from Tāhunaui to Kaiteriteri earlier this month. Despite it being the best weather window for conditions, she was constantly fighting against a strong wind trying to push her off course and severely cramped up at the halfway mark to miss out on making her goal time of under seven hours. She says despite the adversity, there was never a point where she doubted if she’d finish the challenge and has ambitions “to do something around New Zealand and slightly longer”. The fundraising paddle raised over $12,500 for the Nelson Surf

Front left is Nelson Intermediate School students Felix Heathfield, 11, Jude Brown, 12, and Aeman Saeed, 11, with teacher Tony Jenkins at the back. Photo: Kate Russell.

Lifesaving Club, and remains open on Givealittle until the end of the month. Photo: Supplied.

Louis, Marlowe, Dylan and Dee Dalzell Sam Phillips, Willy and Sarah Kerby and Rachel Boyack Sibylle and Hans Podluckt Sofia Serrano, Mariia Horiaieva Sophia Lorenz and Jule Gottscholl

Jediah and Jonny Claridge, Alan Rose Nikki Fisher and Phil Chilton Brent Higgs, Crystal Gaiger, Andrea and Brian Fensom Phil Bell and Mike Darling Ross Satherley and Richard Simmons

This great price is all inclusive - it covers all $5 prescription charges for the year plus the monthly sachet packing. It also allows you to spread your costs over the year by for you and for your husband/wife/partner who is included even if they do not have their medicines sachet packed.

Nelson Matters

Stoke homes on track for May completion

Love Habitat for Humanity, especially that home owners participate in the process helping themselves up, also love that they support local and international, a great charity. Enjoy you new safe, dry, warm homes folks and the awesome wee community you will be part of.

Susan Tonks

It’s been great to watch the progress each week!

Andrea Grocott

Nelmac grab ‘unjust’

Your front page article of 8 March regarding the demise of Nelmac as a result of the disgraceful 3 Waters confiscation by the Government is unbelievable but absolutely correct. Mayor Nick Smith has good reason to be concerned, as should every resident and ratepayer of Nelson. Where is our local MP Rachel Boyack? Not a squeak from her, just asking questions in Parliament of the wonders of 3 waters. Probably written by the now Ex-Minister of Local Government. Well Rachel, it’s time to start

i-SITE needs to reopen

All residents of Nelson and Tasman should be supporting the re-opening of the Nelson i-SITE, as it can be an essential contributor to Top of the South economic growth. Tourism is one of the easiest ways for money to be injected into our region from outside, but we are competing with all the other regions in NZ for both domestic and international tourists, so we need to do everything possible to encourage people to visit and to stay longer. An i-SITE can help us with that by encouraging people once here to see and visit more places and participate in more local events. This is particularly important outside of our busy summer season, when hospitality businesses, especially restaurants, cafes and accommodation providers, depend on as much business as possible to get them through the lean months.

My wife and I were recently at a DOC information centre in Te Anau that was closed midweek, and the constant stream of disappointed and frustrated visitors that were turning up at the door to find it closed was surprising. So, no one should assume that because of the internet, travellers no longer want or need face-to-face contact for visitor information. Having a decent i-SITE in Nelson also gives travelers another reason to come into Nelson City (and support the local economy) rather than just

representing your electorate and the wishes of it. Enough is enough of the separatist agenda being engineered by the Oligarchy in power.

Errol Millar

The govt should just give the money for the upgrades identified to all the councils to meet their standards. And then ownership continues as at present, seems the logical solution. It’s theft what they are planning to do.

Diane Chandler

So, the government takes ratepayers’ assets and then the reward is increased rates and water costs. Who with a logical mind can back this as a solution.

Norman Stringer

No way should we have to foot the bill. Whose dopey idea was the Three Waters?

Lorraine Tunnicliff

Don’t transfer anything till after the election in October.

Chris Kirby

Shutdown for Seniornet

The staff at the public libraries also run

bypass it as they head off to festivals, our beaches, National Parks and other tourism destinations. It is essential that the new i-SITE is open 7 days a week as it can be a valuable source of information for domestic travellers who are enjoying a weekend away, especially if their plans suddenly change due to weather or cancellations. When having a weekend break away, it’s always disappointing to find an i-SITE closed during the weekend - travelling isn’t just a Monday to Friday passtime. If i-SITE staffing costs are a concern, then perhaps we should consider having two paid Council employees on a roster supported by volunteers (we have a lot of knowledgeable retired or semi-retired residents who are passionate about our region). This may be the first place that some people visit when they come to Nelson, so having enthusiastic, informative people with the right personality working there will make a huge difference. The i-SITE does not need to be a money earner for Council. If it achieves it’s aim of encouraging people to stay long longer, spend more money locally and enables them to have a better time so that they rave about our region to friends and family, then it will have achieved it’s goal and everyone will benefit as our local economy once again starts to boom.

Harry Pearson

sessions to help people with tech problems.

Brenda Black

Fruit and vege exchange taking off

Awesome idea.

Eileen-Grant Powell

They make the most amazing Nashi wine...Gisborne is where l was intoduced to it. l’d love you to send me a carton please.

Gay West

Love nashi. Never get them in UK.

Janet Moody

Nathan digs in for TRYathlon

Stacey Davis give the wee man a high five for us please!! What an absolute little legend

Tracey Fraser

Great work Nathan!

Carol Cook

Dog Splash Day

Saturday 25 March, 9am – 10.30am

Nayland Park Pool

An opportunity for some barks and recreation and meet some other doggy friends. Bring your own doggy doo bags, a toy, and a towel as it will be a bit ruff going home wet. Gold coin donation, for Second Chance.

Seafood Saturday

Saturday 25 March, 12 – 4pm

Upper Trafalgar Street

Some of Nelson’s finest chefs coming together to deliver a multi-plate seafood experience. $69 per ticket, R18. Tickets include multiple seafood tasting plates, paired with a premium Nelson wine, and access to the pop-up garden bar, exclusive to ticketholders.

Positive Settlement Expo

Sunday 26 March, 2pm – 5pm

Saxton Oval

A fun friendly information afternoon welcoming communities. Enjoy free and affordable food and drinks.

Hon Dr Nick Smith

SETTING RATES IN TOUGH TIMES

The least fun part of being Mayor or on Council is setting rates. It’s been a particularly tough job this year with tens of millions in extra costs from the storm last August. Council, like everyone, is also facing big cost increases from the worst inflation in 30 years and soaring interest rates.

We are acutely aware that households and businesses are under huge financial pressure, but we are limited in how much we can help. Rates make up about 4% of household costs and average $70 per week. Government taxes make up 40% and cost the average household $700 per week. The best Council can do is not make the inflation problem worse.

Our Annual Plan Taskforce, ably led by Cr Mel Courtney, has got the proposed rate increase for 2023/24 down to 7.2%. This proposed Annual Plan removes $17.6 million of capital spending in 2023/24 for the new riverside library from the previous Council’s plans. We have also squeezed another $4 million in operational savings. This plan proposes spreading the cost of the August storm over a decade. A shorter period would mean higher rate increases. A longer period risks it not being paid off before Nelson is hit by the next natural disaster.

The rate increase will need to be 1% higher if the Government pushes ahead with the Three Waters changes that dismember Nelmac’s water division. The consequential loss of Nelmac’s dividend and restructuring costs will be a hit on ratepayers. I will continue to do all I can to stop this. Rates in Nelson over the past decade have increased at more than double the inflation rate. From 2010-20, rates rose 37.7% compared with inflation of 15.2%. Our proposed 7.2% matches the inflation rate. Auckland Council proposes a lower increase of 5% by cutting community services and selling airport shares. Wellington proposes a higher rate of 12% and Tasman 9%.

We welcome feedback on our draft Annual Plan either online, through written submissions or by dropping into the Council caravan at the Saturday Market during April. We want to prioritise fixing the storm damage and find the right balance between constraining rate increases and maintaining Council services.

Cut out each LEGO challenge card, and see which creations you can make.

Easter Egg Rice Bubble Nests

• Preparation time - 10 mins

• Cook time - 5 mins

• Serves 10

This Easter, break out rice bubbles and create little nests of perfect goodness the kids will love - so good, so tasty.

Directions:

$30

Ingredients:

• Butter, for greasing

• Mars bars, chopped - 4

• Unsalted butter, chopped - 100g

• Rice bubbles - 3 cups

• Assorted mini chocolate Easter eggs

1. Grease and line 10 bases of a 12-hole muffin tin.

2. Place Mars bars and butter in a medium saucepan. Stir over a low heat for

3. Place rice bubbles in a Mars bar mixture and stir divide mixture among

4. Refrigerate until firm. Store before serving.

5. When ready to serve, arranged inside each nest.

TRY THESE Tongue Twisters!

1. To begin to toboggan first buy a toboggan, but don't buy too big a toboggan. Too big a toboggan is too big a toboggan to buy to begin to toboggan.

2. Give papa a cup of proper coffee in a copper coffee cup.

3. Which witch switched the Swiss wristwatches?

4. I thought a thought, But the thought I thought wasn’t the thought I thought I thought.

If the thought I thought I thought had been the thought I thought, I wouldn’t have thought so much.

School Holiday Bucket List

Have a picnic. Play a board game. Make homemade pizza. Feed the ducks. Fly a kite.

Have a pyjama day. Do a jigsaw puzzle. Bake something delicious. Built a blanket fort.

5. A big bug bit a bold bald bear and the bold bald bear bled blood badly www.quinneysbush.co.nz

Kick a football around the park. Build a sandcastle at the beach.

MJ Fraser Logging - Celebrating 50 Years

first skidder. It was a CAT518, and the first step into mechanisation when a grapple was fitted to it the following year. With a strong focus on health and safety in the industry, Mike took full ownership of the company in 1990 with the vision to create a fully-mechanised operation. Finally taking the leap, and not without some trepidation, Fraser Logging purchased a Hahn Harvester in 1994 to mechanically process logs and, subsequently, a CAT325 with a waratah processing head in 1998. A successfully won contract for Weyerhaeuser New Zealand in 1999 saw a growth period for the business and the beginning of the 740 crew. Mike continued investment to training his staff, and his contribution and input to forestry in the region

Renowned and well-respected for their dedication to providing a better workplace environment, MJ Fraser Logging are celebrating 50 years in the industry. Owned by fourthgeneration logger Mike Fraser, whose name is synonymous with providing change and growth within the logging sector, we take a look at where it all began, and MJ Fraser Logging’s journey to becoming one of the region's most successful and influential operators in the region.

Robin Fraser, Mike’s great grandfather was the first in a long line of Frasers whose lives have been intrinsically linked to New Zealand forests. He was born in the late 1800’s and worked in forestry at Nydia Bay in the Marlborough Sounds.

Roy Fraser, Mike’s grandfather was born in 1902 and followed in Robin’s footsteps, operating

a hauler for Oddland’s in the North Island’s Wairarapa. Don Fraser, Mike’s father was born in 1930 and continued on the family tradition working in forestry and lived in a hut in the bush with his brother Bill, cutting posts and firewood in 1948. The two brothers worked in a forestry crew in 1950, and then made the move to the South Island to work on Rabbit Island in the early 50’s using cross-cut saws and axes to trim trees.

In the late 50’s Don went to work for the Hunt Brothers. On the hauler side they used a horse to pull the main rope out. Don competed in a range of industry competitions, winning various New Zealand chopping records, and the New Zealand Jigger Board Championship in the late 60’s which resulted in an invitation to chop for HRH

Queen Elizabeth II at Trafalgar

Park during a Royal Tour.

In 1972 Don and his wife Doreen purchased the logging business from Bob Hunt and this was the beginning of the Fraser 03 crew and Fraser Logging family business. Back then the crew, consisting of one loader, a bulldozer and five men, produced approximately four to five truckloads per day. Mike joined his father in the operation in 1980. An experienced mechanic, Mike was surprised at the lack of qualifications and training systems required to work in the industry and used this as a driving motivation for change and growth into leading the business.

Working side by side with his father for many years, Fraser Logging purchased their first new machine in 1981 – a CATD6D dozer - and by the mid 80’s they had purchased their

Mike Fraser and his team continue to make their mark in the industry and lead the way forward to new era of logging.

has seen him and his team receive numerous awards for their excellence within the industry. Since its inception, the strength of the business has been within its people, and their wellbeing continues to be one of the driving forces behind its success.

In 2022 Fraser Logging gained the OneFortyOne tender to carry out harvesting and road engineering on approximately 2000 hectares of forest in the Manuka Island forest estate in the top of the Wairau Valley. It was a four hundred thousand tonne contract and the first time Fraser Logging had entered into a deal including roading. The company now employs 37 people, including management, collaboratively totes up 351 years of service, and their four fully mechanised crews produce approximately 340 thousand tonnes per year working in the OneFortyOne forests. Hugely valuable to the forestry industry, Mike Fraser is considered a real leader and a true professional

Proud to support MJ Fraser Logging

amongst his peers. He draws on an extensive rugby background, having played NPC for Nelson Bays and coached at Mako level, bringing through many of those sporting practices into his business, saying “Rugby is doing some really cool stuff and I have tried to utilise what happens there. We can teach people how to use a chainsaw, how to operate a machine, and other skills that are needed, but we need to give them the tools to grow and see them be who they really are.”

Decades before mental health was widely discussed, Mike knew that ensuring his workers had solid support around them would lead to success and enlisted the help of a psychologist to support his crew.

Jim Forsyth has been providing psychological and counselling support to Fraser logging for many years and says that Mike is clearly motivated not only to run a great operation but is also acutely conscious that an organisation is only as good as its people.

“I have always admired Mike’s proactive and caring approach to the welfare of his staff. I have invariably found him approachable, generous with his time and resources, and keen to make a positive contribution to people’s lives.”

Their continual dedication to health and safety, training plans and developing leadership skills

A true legend in the forestry industry, Mike Fraser.

result in a multi-skilled efficient workforce who are dedicated to the business. Recent 2022 Top of the South Forestry awards for MJ Fraser Logging saw Mike being honoured as Hero of the Industry for his massive investment, contribution and input to for-

estry in the region, and also winning Training Company/ Contractor of the Year. In 2021 team members of MJ Fraser Logging were recognised for their outstanding contributions at the Top of the South Forestry Awards, taking away runner-up for NZ Apprentice of the Year, Crew of the Year and winners of the Harvesting Excellent and overall winner - Skilled Professional of the Year. A true legend in the industry, Mike and his family have drawn on their extensive knowledge and experience to create a thriving and respected work culture that is second to none. Mike’s long-standing enthusiasm for technology introduced a safer working environment for his staff at a very early stage and paved the way for a more efficient and better work

environment for all. The addition of Mike’s daughter to the team now makes for a family of fifth generation loggers who continue to make their mark in the industry and lead the way forward to a new era of logging.

“On reflection of the last 50 years, while so much has changed in the industry, one thing has remained constant, and that is the need to grow and develop both personally as individuals and professionally as a business. Fraser Logging has always believed in the wellbeing of our people being the key to the future of our business.”

Mike Fraser is quick to praise others in the region, tipping his hat to the world-leading technology and innovation that continues to happen.

Tasman Heavy Diesel would like to give a huge congratulations to Mike and the team on your well deserved success, over the last 50 years. We are honoured to work alongside you on your Journey.

14 O’Connor Road, Richmond, Nelson (03) 544 2777 or 027 344 3699 | matt@thd.nz

CONGRATULATIONS M J FRASER

CONGRATULATIONS M J FRASER LOGGING ON 50 YEARS

CONGRATULATIONS M J FRASER LOGGING ON 50 YEARS

ON 50 YEARS

We know your business like you know the forest. We are your power on the ground.

We know your business like you know the forest. We are your power on the ground.

We know your business like you know the forest. We are your power on the ground.

CONGRATULATIONS M J FRASER LOGGING ON 50 YEARS

We know your business like you know the forest. We are your power on the ground.

We know your business like you know the forest. We are your power on the ground.

Throughout our history we’ve supported New Zealand’s forestry industry. Our connection to the land and the grounded nature of our people and our relationships, speak for themselves.

Throughout our history we’ve supported New Zealand’s forestry industry. Our connection to the land and the grounded nature of our people and our relationships, speak for themselves.

Throughout our history we’ve supported New Zealand’s forestry industry. Our connection to the land and the grounded nature of our people and our relationships, speak for themselves. Cat® brings the power of unparalleled world class products and systems you know and rely on.

Throughout our history we’ve supported New Zealand’s forestry industry. Our connection to the land and the grounded nature of our people and our relationships, speak for themselves.

Cat® brings the power of unparalleled world class products and systems you know and rely on.

Cat® brings the power of unparalleled world class products and systems you know and rely on.

Throughout our history we’ve supported New Zealand’s forestry industry. Our connection to the land and the grounded nature of our people and our relationships, speak for themselves. Cat® brings the power of unparalleled world class products and systems you know and rely on.

Proud to be associated with Mike Fraser Logging. Congratulations on being in business 50 years.

Cat® brings the power of unparalleled world class products and systems you know and rely on.

The Fraser boys on the job; Don Fraser with his sons Mike (left) and Tony (right)

Stoke-Nayland put on finals masterclass

JACK MALCOLM

An unbeaten 91 from Stoke-Nayland opening batsman Jonty Raxworthy has delivered his team their second title of the season. They will lock away the T20 trophy in their cabinet for the winter after a devastating performance over ACOB that saw them win by 104 runs after posting 182/5 from their turn with the bat.

It was a convincing win by the boys in red, who were in top form on their home ground at Marsden Rec after the game was delayed by two-and-a-half hours to let the morning dew dry off. With Jonty guiding his team through the opening innings, with handy contributions from brother Finn (21) and Ryan du Plessis (13), they were away and flying.

Despite a slow start, Stoke-Nayland were able to keep wickets in hand to let loose in the closing overs as Jonty started to open up his shoulders and cruise well past a par score on the difficult wicket. Faced with an uphill battle,

YOUR CAREER

ACOB looked to play positively but were immediately punished for their aggression with a wicket off the first ball of the second innings.

When captain Ollie Jones-Allen found himself dismissed in exactly the same manner, hitting the ball hard and straight to midoff, the reality of their run chase came into stark view.

Despite hitting two massive sixes in the over he faced, the daunting prospect of having to maintain more than a nine-run an over rate to chase them down came into stark view.

Some resistance from vice-captain James Graham gave them a glimmer of hope, but when he was bowled for 31 by Ryan du Plessis it became clear that it was an unassailable goal.

He had watched four of his batting partners lose their wicket in between facing 28 balls, and was the last line of defence before Stoke-Nayland were able to get stuck into the tail and finish the game off.

Some nice catches on the bound-

ary saved them runs, but with so many in hand it was more a statement of superiority.

Ollie says their hand was forced into having an aggressive run chase, but Stoke-Nayland were just too good for them on the day.

“When it comes to batting, you have to make hay in those first six overs.

“We had to come out really hot, and unfortunately that didn’t come off.”

He says Jonty’s performance with the bat was game winning, with a total of over 180 in club cricket being well under par.

“I think there were two-or-three bad overs with the ball, and that cost us.

“That’s the beauty of finals cricket, they were just too good for us on the day.”

With a chance at the one-day title next weekend, he says it’s a process of shrugging off the result and looking forward to their game against the Wolves.

Stoke captain Dylan Eginton says it’s a fitting way to end their season, having secured two of the three premier grade titles on offer.

“We were very happy with that score. With the weather, it’s reasonably tough to even get 150160 plus.

“When you get that score in club cricket, it’s hard to beat.”

He says holding onto wickets early was a key to their success, allowing them to put the pain on down the stretch.

Looking back on their season, Dylan says he’s proud of how his team performed, particularly when the pressure was on. “It was pretty good, really. There were a couple of bad days out in the one-day stuff that cost us. . . but two out of three ain’t bad.”

ALLIANCE – SEASONAL TEAM MEMBERS

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

Ngā painga - what’s in it for you?

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

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

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

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

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

• Up to 7 months of full-time seasonal employment

• Upskill yourself with an opportunity to gain NZQA qualifications

• Receive ongoing training and support

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

• Access to our free employee assistance programme

Ō pūkenga - about you

• You are eligible to work in New Zealand

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

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

• You enjoy working within a team environment

• You are physically fit, committed, and reliable

Apply online at www.alliancejobs.co.nz, by emailing nelson.botas@alliance.co.nz, or visit us at the Nelson Plant, 910 Main Rd Stoke, 7011.

Find out more at www.alliance.co.nz

Jonty Raxworthy was in blistering form, battering the ball to all areas of the park on the way to an unbeaten 91 in their T20 final win over ACOB. Photo: Evan Barnes/Shuttersport.

More than 180 runners soaked in the sun on Saturday as they completed the local edition of the Aramex Kiwi Walk and Run Series around the Maitai Valley and Centre of New Zealand. From young families to experienced trail runners, there were all variety of walkers and runners taking off from the start line at Branford Park who were treated to a taste of Kiwiana at the race’s pit stops, with L&P, jet plane lollies and Cookie Time biscuits on offer as well as the more traditional water and energy bars.

Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Speedway Stampede simply sensational

JODY SCOTT

The packed house at Milestone Homes Top of the South Speedway were treated with a climatic conclusion to a huge weekend of racing at the PTS Stampede. Even the rain that shortened Friday night couldn’t dampen the heat of Saturday’s festivities, Shane Harwood putting the icing on the cake for the locals, dominating the all-in feature race to win the Stampede Cup in the Ben Smith Super Stock.

An epic battle behind him was just superb, Canterbury’s Lloyd Jennings just holding out fellow club-mate Jake Berry. Defending champion Brett Nicholls missing the podium by a whisper, nearly tagging the front cars in the final corner.

A huge rollover by Rotorua’s Bryce Vazey and Thomas Stanaway in the penultimate race will be the feature crash on Facebook and TikTok channels this week.

The Stock Cars warmed up the crowd before the feature race with a huge win to locals Dylan Clarke and Riley Eathorne against a couple of top visiting teams in their Stock Car Summer Slam.

The top six pairs competed in a knockout competition over three laps per race to find the eventual winner, after competing in group races over the weekend. The new format was a real winner on the

day and will be a big edition to next year’s programme.

The Youth Ministock Mania featured cars from all over the country, eventual winner Deegan Butcher from Napier just holding on from local Jack Burson who came 2nd with Rotorua’s George Crawford 3rd, Cohen Wright 4th and another local, Conley Webley, in 5th.

Jayden Vibert was top local in the junior section, younger Crawford brother Jimmy winning from Christchurch’s Marcel Vlaanherer.

Penalties to Wright and Burson cost them vital points which would’ve changed the results. The North Vs South competition was won by the North team. It was close until a couple of southern cars broke late in the meeting.

The Classics ran a team’s format with the pairing of Peanut and Herbie getting the points win. It was more about track time than results with several guest drivers getting behind the wheel. A few North Islanders were gutted that they missed the meeting due to ferry sailing issues.

Street Stocks also ran a pairs format, while the South Island title is just two weeks away. They were not mucking around - Cody McCarrison getting an eight-day holiday for being a bit too keen.

Brian Shaw and Harry Mof-

fit-Schwass took out the win from Ryan Morrison and Tim Pine with Steve Soper and Josh Atkinson 3rd. The Nelson Knights are due to compete at Easter after their meeting was rained out last week in Christchurch.

The first Pam Nixon Memorial was won by Vaughan Cornelius in the Production Saloon class, Fee Frans was second with Krissy Wolf, Pam’s daughter racing her late mother’s car, claimed 3rd overall.

A wee door issue once again for Geoff Watson as both rear doors flapped open in the first race making for some entertainment.

The Mark Thorne Memorial trophy was competed for in the Sidecar class.

Brent Steer and Wade Thorne got the job done from Rob and Harley Martin, Christchurch’s Paul Anderson and Ella Hurst-Whitworth in 3rd, the flat track keeping the competitors happy.

A huge Saturday crowd were treated to one of the best meetings in recent years, even with ferry drama’s stopping many North Islanders from crossing for the week-

end, the last month of racing has been epic, with the street stock title still to come.

The racing has been hard and fast, while the thrills and spills have dominated highlight reels around the country, the club starting are to make plans to im-

prove infrastructure as they build towards the New Zealand Super Stock title in a couple of years’ time, the Nelson club have been pretty lucky with the weather this season, the Street Stock title the final box to tick off before the Easter finale.

Speedway’s PTS Stampede brought a packed weekend of racing to a full house over the weekend. Photo: Rebecca Connor-Maling.

Mako find new home

Tasman Rugby Union have announced they will swap buildings with City Club Nelson in a move that Tasman Rugby Union chief executive Lyndon Bray, City Club president Peter Fisher and Nelson Mayor Nick Smith all see as a win-win situation. With both buildings owned by the Nelson City Council, the plan will see the

union move their entire operation to City Club’s Kinzett Terrace site, across the road from the north end of Trafalgar Park, while the club will concurrently move their business to Tasman Rugby’s current home on Trafalgar Lane.

The union already has big plans for their new spiritual home, with visions of developing an astro turf training centre covered by a canvas roof on the

preexisting lawn bowls greens. “Such a centre would allow us to provide an all-weather training environment for the Mako, for development programmes, junior rugby training and also for Rippa Rugby competitions and tournaments, plus coachthe-coaches programmes,” says Lyndon. Public submissions are now being sought after NCC have agreed to the plan in principle.

SUPER RUGBY TIPPING

Tasman Swim Club’s

of

Training ramps up for Tasman swimmers

team for the Youth Commonwealth Games.

Tasman Swim Club’s top young swimmers are training upwards of nine times a week as they prepare for nationals in April.

The team has been ramping up training as the tournament, the 2023 Apollo Projects New Zealand Age Group Swimming Championships (NAGS) in Hawke’s Bay, comes into focus. Head coach Shaun Foley says they have been building up to the event for months, with a lot of early mornings getting in laps at Nayland Pool and the Richmond Aquatic Centre.

“The youth are nine times a week, with two sessions in the gym, and the age-grade swimmers are six water and two 30 minute land sessions.”

There’s some lofty goals from the team as well, with 16-year-old William Seymour looking to secure his place in the New Zealand

He was named in the 40-strong long-list of swimmers in contention, which will be cut down to size at nationals.

Swimmers like William will have to notch up a qualifying time at the event to secure a spot on the team.

For the other local swimmers, there are still high ambitions after a lot of time spent at the pool in preparation.

Mya Ketel and Brooke Swan say their goals are to earn a spot on the podium and a medal, while Lono Kalani (14), who won 11 golds in the 2021 Nelson/Marlborough long-course championships, says he just wants people to make people laugh and have a good time. With the event hosted in Hawkes Bay, organisers have confirmed that it will still go ahead after conducting a site visit earlier this month.

Capt Thomas Thoms

Captain Thomas Thoms arrived in Nelson in December 1842. He had brought a sawmill with him and set up a business at Motueka. But he built his plant partly on Māori Reserve land and Epau, one of the owners, destroyed his sawpit. Captain

Generations

presents Snippets of History

Arthur

Wakefield intervened to resolve the disagreement. Thoms began production in June 1843, providing timber for many Motueka homes and several public buildings. Thoms was appointed the first magistrate for Motueka and Nelson.

PASIFIKA vs HURRICANES REBELS vs REDS BLUES vs FORCE

JACK MALCOLM

team

Joel Verran (17), Lucas Bell (13), William Seymour (16), Mya Ketel (16) and Lono Kalani (14) (absent: Brooke Swan, Alex Marshall and Sam Wilson) have been putting in the hours as they ramp up for their biggest tournament of the year. Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Community Notices

MONDAY

PHILOSOPHY GROUP IS MOVING to Trafalgar Hall. Mon 27 Mar, 10am. 67 Trafalgar St, Nelson. Next meeting of curious minds. Newcomers and drop-ins welcome. For info TXT Zoe: 027-974-1758.

$3 HEARTY MEALS you’re welcome at Loaves & Fishes where hot nutritious meals are only $3 on Mondays at 5.30 pm and on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at midday. Come to the hall behind the church. 30 Vanguard St. Enquiries Ph: 0272977383.

ACTIVE STRENGTH/BALANCE CLASS: Also seated options presented. Mon, 1pm. Tāhunanui Community Hub, Muritai St. ACC accredited provider. Get fitter to great music. Ph: Shirley 035471433 / 0211218023.

SENIOR 3D FLOW FITNESS WITH COACH D Every Mon, 1pm. Come join in and improve your health and fitness, including strength, coordination, balance, mobility, and agility. Tāhunanui Community Hub. Ph: 021411700. $5 per session.

HIRA COMMUNITY PLAYGROUP Mon during term time, 1-3pm. Hira Kindergarten. Cost $5 per term, includes children's afternoon tea. Ph: 035450224.

ACTING UP DRAMA GROUP Mon 10.30- 12pm. Whakatu Presbyterian Church Hall. 271 Songer St Stoke. New members welcome. Ph: Anne 035380400.

FITNESS & FRESH-AIR. Mon & Thurs 12pm. FREE outdoor exercise program for seniors. 30 mins walk & 30 mins use of outdoor exercise equipment at Saxton & Tāhunanui. Fun & enjoyable. Practice strength & balance. Ph: Ange 021790415

TUESDAY

NELSON 50+ WALKING GROUP Tues, 28 Mar. Kumeras Motueka. Meet 9.40am at the Saltwater Baths Motueka. BYO lunch. Ph: Sally 02102694610.

STOKE CENTRAL COMBINED PROBUS Next meeting, Tues, 28 Mar, 10am. Stoke Methodist Hall, 94 Neale Ave, Stoke. Includes our 30th year celebration.

NELSON CREATIVE FIBRE GROUP Welcome you to friendly fibre craft meetings. Meetings are on the 2nd and 4th Tues monthly 9.30am in the Jaycees room Founders Park. $2 for members, $4 for non-members. Ph: Lesley 035765654.

OVER FIFTIES SOCIAL GROUP Tues 1.30-3.30pm, 238 Vanguard St. Rummikub, 500, scrabble, crafts, and chat. Afternoon tea provided. Ph: Jan on 035469057 or 0274577955, or Grace on 0273109975.

KIDS-N-KOFFEE PLAYGROUP term time. Tues, 9.4511.45am. All Saints crèche,30 Vanguard St. Indoor/outdoor play areas, crafts, toys, music session, fun and fellowship. Ph: Lois 0274331213.

WEDNESDAY

WAIMEA HARRIERS SHARLAND CYCLES 5k fun run and walk from Club Waimea Richmond. Wed, 22 Mar. Start 6pm. Everyone and all abilities welcome. See website for details. Ph 0223729432.

CONVERSATIONS with Councillor Tim Skinner. Wed, 12pm. ZUMO, 42 Rutherford St, Nelson. Ask a question, have a general chat, or just listen in. Everyone welcome. Contact ZUMO - Ph: 02102423496.

YOU’RE INVITED Beginner Bridge lessons. Starts Wed, 12 April, 7pm. Nelson Bridge Club. To book Ph: 035481999. E: contact@nelsonbridge.co.nz. First “taster” session. FREE.

LA LECHE LEAGUE NELSON Last Wed of the month 9.3011.30. Richmond Plunket, Oxford St. All welcome. Support and info also available by Ph/txt: Ruth 0272433469.

AIKIDO Want to learn self-defence and become more confident? Do AIKIDO a Japanese Martial Art. Children’s classes from 8 -16yrs. Wed and Fri, 5-6pm. www.aikidonelson.nz or Ph: Callum 0210694211.

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY 50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: myevent@nelsonweekly.co.nz

THURSDAY

NELSON/TASMAN ENDOMETRIOSIS GROUP invites you to a gentle Yoga class with Loren. Thurs, 30 Mar, 7-8pm. 16 Venice Place, Stoke. (Upstairs). NOTE new venue. Info Ph: Helen 035441724 or E: nelsonsupport@nzendo.org.nz. All Welcome. Bring own mat if you have one. Gold Coin Donation.

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING The Nelson Club dance. Thurs, 7.30pm. Haven Hall, 34 Collingwood St, Nelson. New dancers welcome, no partner needed. More info: Ph: Kelly 0211739642 or nelson@dancescottish.org.nz.

GRIEF SHARE COURSE 13-week course starts, Thurs 13 April. 7-9pm. Side Room, Richmond New Life Church. 85 Wensley Rd, Richmond. Help and encouragement after the death of a spouse, child, family member, or friend. Txt or Ph: Marcia 0211270001 griefsharenn@gmail.com.

FRIDAY

COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE every Fri, 9-11.30am. Victory Community Centre. Designed to make treatment affordable and accessible for all. Dress comfortably in loose fitting clothing so you can roll up your pants and sleeves. Cost: Sliding Scale from $5.

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

STOKE TOY LIBRARY 40TH BIRTHDAY. Sun, 26 Mar, 113pm. 206 Songer St. We’ve been open 40 years - join us to celebrate. Bouncy Castle, Sausage Sizzle, Games, and activities, PLUS performances by Kath Bee. Entry by gold coin donation.

PRETTY SMART SALE 25 & 26 Mar, 9-2pm. Hope Recreational Hall. Pre-loved clothing and accessories for adults, children, and babies. Also, homewares, toys, and books. Entry $2, cash sales only.

NELSON DANCE ALONG Sat 25 Mar, 7.30-11pm. Richmond Town Hall. Plate for Supper, Music by Warren Fenemor. Eve -

ryone Welcome. Ph: Rosalie Winter 035380133. Cost $6 pp. FOREST & BIRD 100th anniversary Big Birthday Bash. Sun, 26 Mar. 12pm at Pelorus Bridge. Scavenger hunts, tours of the reserve, and birthday cake. All welcome, bring your family, friends, and a picnic.

WAIMEA TRAMPING CLUB 50-Year Anniversary. Sat, 29 Apr. Easy local tramp in the morning, celebration dinner in the evening. Current and previous members welcome. For more info or to register by 16 April. E: wtc.richmond@gmail.com or Ph: 0212671298.

THE NELSON INSTITUTE presents a talk by Dr Mike Johnston on his book about the history of the Golden Bay goldfields. Sun, 2 Apr. 2pm. Nelson public library. Cost: $3.

BRING YOUR APPLES AND PEARS and press them for free at our next open day. Sun, 2 Apr. 10-3pm. Willow Bank Heritage Village, 79 Wakefield-Kohatu Highway, Wakefield.

ARMCHAIR TRAVELLERS: Sat, 1 Oct. 7.30pm. Whakatu Presbyterian Hall, Upper Songer St. Speaker, Iain Campbell. 'Life on the Mekong River'. Entry donations support Plunket Nelson. Supper.

GENERAL GROUPS

THE SUTTER ART SOCIETY autumn exhibition. 29 Mar – 16 Apr. 9.30-4.30pm daily. Featuring guest artist Angela Maritz and showing the works of local members.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for our day programmes for the elderly. Serve refreshments, join in singing, games, chat or assist on vans. Ph: Maaike 032655224, E: maaikef@psusi. org.nz.

DOWNSIZING OR DECLUTTERING? Vinnies in Vanguard

St can collect your good quality household donations. Ph: 035489372.

YOGA for people who have or have had cancer. Mon AM and PM, and Tues eve. Register info@cancernelson.org.nz or Ph: 035391137.

FALLS PREVENTION: Free 2hr session for anyone who has fallen or is at risk of falling. Relaxed & informal setting. Book at Nelson Bays Primary Health. Ph: Ange 021790415. FOOD, IS IT A PROBLEM FOR YOU? Are you suffering from anorexia, bulimia, obesity and/or compulsive eating? Overeaters Anonymous works. Ph: 0226730237. All welcome

ARE YOU A CHRISTIAN wanting to make a difference in the life of a child? We are looking for caring Christian people who are willing to open their home to care for a child/young person. To find out more, Ph: Mika at Open Home Foundation 0274610497 mika.ito@ohf.org.nz.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS - Is alcohol causing problems for you in your life? Want to stop drinking but can't? Maybe we can help. Support meetings every day. Call 0800aaworks 08002296757.

BIRDLIFE CENTRE OF NEW ZEALAND needs volunteer pest trappers in the Centre of NZ Reserve in Nelson city. No experience needed; full training given. If you are interested, reasonably fit, and can spare two hours a fortnight Ph: Gretchen 0212663867.

FEELING SAD, STRESSED, DEPRESSED, OR STUCK? Identify and explore new ways to move forward with a Life Linc Counsellor. Up to 10 face to face counselling sessions available now for individuals and couples. 035482400 lifelinc.co.nz LUNG CANCER CONNECT for those who are going through or who have gone through lung cancer Register 035391137. NELSON WOODTURNING CLUB. Join us at our club rooms for Turning, camaraderie and sharing of knowledge. New Learn to Turn classes starting soon. More Info TXT or Ph: Allan 021543345.

KIDS YOGA 6-12 years old in bright new studio in Tāhunanui. Book 035458289

FOOD, IS IT A PROBLEM FOR YOU? Are you suffering from anorexia, bulimia, obesity and/or compulsive eating? Overeaters Anonymous works. Ph: 0226730237. All welcome

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

COLLECTABLES

NZ Paintings & books, Musical Instruments, Toys, Cameras, Clocks, Silver, Fine China, Morris Minor, etc.Closing Shop after 22 Years!

Don't miss the bargains this week at Souchebys Antiques, The Castle 75 Gladstone Rd, Richmond Ph 544 0723

FURNITURE FURNITURE

CHAPMAN Bryan Roy 28.01.2023

The family of Bryan would like to thank those who sent cards, flowers, baking, also the wonderful help from Nelson golfers, the ladies who served food, men who put out chairs, caterers who did such a great job, also Mr President in the background giving directions. The army mates with the last post, Nelson shooters and the bottle topper golfers who took Bryan out for coffee when he couldn’t drive.

Lastly to Simplicity Funerals Anna and Linda who helped with amazing care. Please accept this as a personal acknowledgement from Pamela Tania and Vanessa.

SITUATIONS VACANT

DELIVERERS WANTED

Interested in fundraising for a club or social group?

THEN WE HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY FOR

We are looking for individuals or groups to deliver our award winning newspapers. Our runs can be done individually or shared amongst a group , as the famous saying goes. “Many hands make light work”

For further details please email: deliveries@thedeliveryguy.co.nz

YOU!

Trades&Services

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