The Guardian - 24 April 2024

American show tackles local wilderness

JACK MALCOLM

With $500,000 in prize money on the line and hundreds of people’s safety in their hands, Nathan Fa’ave’s most recent venture might also be his boldest.

Having to source their own food and without GPS, managing ev

KC Penelomay is a Motueka singer/songwriter who has recently released her first album on Spotify.

KC is a Year 10 student at Motueka High School, and she started playing music when she was five years old, on a ukelele. She doesn’t read music and plays by ear, and by the time she was eight she had switched to playing the guitar.

On 23 March, she launched her album Inexorable, which she wrote and produced at home.

For KC, having her music on Spotify is all about exposure.

“The amount of logistics involved was a lot. It was a big job.

“We’ve done similar things, but nothing on this scale before. . .

Race to Survive: New Zealand sees nine teams tackle some of the region’s harshest terrain over 40 days, having to navigate al most 250km.

KC wrote and produced her first album at her home studio. Photo: Fiona Nelson.

Making music inexorably

“I want to get quite big, get more followers and play at bigger concerts.”

She has already played in front of audiences of over 200.

She came first for vocal solo at the Motueka High Talent Quest last year and has performed at Rock the City in Nelson.

She has also played at Motueka’s Kai Festival and A&P Show, and in Nelson at the Twilight Market, Founders Christmas Market, and the Umbrella Market.

KC says the inspiration for her songs comes from whatever happens in her day - the emotions and feelings.

“I think about what I’m going to write about and then find some chords,” she says.

The music she crafts takes different styles – pop, pop-rock, electronic-pop, and some slow pop songs. Her influences come from listening to Dominic Fike, an American singer/ songwriter, and Bennee, a New Zealand singer/songwriter.

In the future, KC intends to finish high school and pursue her music career, learning more about production. Coming up for KC is the Motueka High School Talent Quest on 17 May, and the Rockquest heats on 18 May at the Annesbrook Centre, and the finals on 22 June at the Theatre Royal, Nelson.

Her album can be streamed on Spotify, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, Apple Music, I Tunes, iHeart radio and other streaming platforms.

Supporting the community to bloom

The Māpua Spring Plant Sale is being planned for 2024. The organising group are asking the community to once again support the Māpua community with this fundraising event, by donating plants, bulbs and seedlings to be sold. The plant sale will be held on Saturday, 21 September in Māpua, and will include activities such as a silent auction and a sand saucer competition for the children, along with plants and seedlings at great prices. With autumn here and following the recent rain, now is the time to be helping out by preparing plants to donate. The request is going out for people to pot up any plants / cuttings / bulbs to be set aside and nurtured until closer to the time. People wanting pots information can contact Jan Patterson on 027 701 1032.

American survival show tackles local wilderness

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The camera crew, audio guys, story guys, they all had to be around and scheduled, and we weren’t in the most accessible terrain.”

Nathan and his company were approached to pitch the region as a suitable place to shoot the show’s second season, with the first season filmed in Alaska. And their submission was successful, with the Nelson Tasman region winning the tender process, meaning all three local national parks will be shown to the world.

All nine teams consist of experienced, high-performance, endurance athletes who are people used to living and working in the harshest conditions. Still, Nathan says they didn’t want to make it deliberately hard.

“We wanted a quality experience for participants where they’re blown away by the places they go, the things they see and the experience they have.

“It’s not about making them climb a mountain just because it’s hard. We wanted them to do it because of the amazing views

Father-in-law and son Ryan Stewart and Bronsen Iverson take a moment to take in the view as they took on one of reality television’s biggest tests. Photo: USA Network/Facebook.

when you get up there and the feeling of accomplishment. “It will be really amazing exposure for the region. In some ways, the region is the big winner.”

While Nathan was involved with the production, the only thing he’s seen is the show’s trailer. He’ll be tuning in to watch the show, saying it will be interesting

to see how they choose to tell the story.

Race to Survive: New Zealand is made by Original Productions, who are also responsible for reality shows Deadliest Catch and Ice Road Truckers. The show will premier 20 May in America on USA Network, with

no confirmation on how local viewers will be able to watch at time of publication.

PSA warns of dire consequences if library services cut

ELISE VOLLWEILER

Dementia services, author’s talks and children’s events are all on the chopping block for the district’s libraries if the Tasman District Council’s preferred option is not supported in its upcoming 10-Year Plan.

The council’s 10-Year Plan is open for submissions until this Sunday, and retaining the status quo for the libraries is outlined as the preferred option in its consultation document.

This means that there would be no changes to the opening hours or “current level of programming and support available”.

“This would continue to support equitable access to information, education, and literacy opportunities for the whole community,” the document states.

However, the alternative option B is laid out as cutting $500,000 per year from the district’s library resources.

This would include reducing opening hours to four days a week, scrapping weekend hours, and undertaking “a substantial cutback” in events and support.

Author’s talks, film nights, children’s story times, holiday programmes, dementia services and digital support are some of the services earmarked for cancellation.

There would also be fewer new books and the possibility of unexpected library closures if staff were sick.

The consultation document outlines the negative community impact of these changes, such as reducing educational opportunities, undermining skill development and disproportionately affecting people on lower incomes. The sole positive outcome listed is a rates reduction of $23 per ratepaying household or business per year.

Option B is a deeply concerning prospect, according to Toby

Beasley, Top of the South organiser for the Public Service Association-Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi (PSA).

The PSA is the country’s largest trade union, supporting more than 95,000 people across the country, including library staff.

Toby hopes that steps will be taken to retain the full facilities, calling the Motueka library services the “benchmark” that should be aspirational for the other Tasman libraries.

“The PSA is really in support of the Tasman District Council keeping funding the same.”

He says that the cuts would destroy the services to the public, including the outreach programmes for the elderly and for children.

People rely on the library for warmth in winter, and it gives them access that some people otherwise do not have to computers and the internet, as well as assistance with technology such as paying online bills.

“Our library staff are as much an advisory service as librarians. It’s just a massive massive resource and we don’t want that cut,” he

Rings For All Occasions

says. “We have some highly trained and highly competent individuals who, if we lost them, we would not get them back.”

The new Motueka District Library-Te Noninga Kumu was opened in 2022, with a building cost of just under $5 million, and reports since have shown a large

jump in visitor numbers and engagement in the library services.

“All those metrics had gone through the roof,” Toby says.

He is urging the public to make submissions to the 10-Year Plan, requesting that the council’s preferred option – the status quo – is adopted.

Submissions to the 10-Year Plan

can be made online at shape.tasman.govt.nz/10YP, or by emailing LTP@tasman.govt.nz. Alternatively, people can complete the paper submission form attached to the consultation document at Tasman District Council offices or libraries. Submissions close on Sunday, 28 April at 4pm.

barriers of anti-Muslim sentiment. The

who plan to tour the South Island with their “I’ am Muslim, ask me anything” shirts, were at Nelson’s market on Saturday. Mustenser says a lot of people’s only experience with Islam is what they hear in the media and interpersonal communication is the best way to address persecution their community faces, by building bridges and relationships. Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Ahmadiyya Muslim imams Asif Munir (left) and Mustenser Qamar (right) teamed up with local members of their Islamic community, Babu Mobarak, Rashid Ahmad Faraz, Tayyab Ahmad and Muhammad Amjad to break down

group,

Services at Motueka’s library are at risk warn PSA members. Photo: Elise Vollwelier.

Levity Beet hopes to continue his songful success in this year’s national children’s music awards. Photo: Supplied.

Double national nominations for Levity

GORDON PREECE

Squeaky toys, truck horns, and plates and teacups smashing in Levity Beet’s tracks were music to the ears of this year’s Ngā Manu Tīrairaka NZ Children’s Music Awards judges.

The Tākaka-based musician is a finalist in two categories for the awards which champion the music of homegrown songwriters for the country’s youngest listeners.

His Best Children’s Song – Preschool nomination is for ‘Funny Little Bunny – The Springtime Action Song’, which Levity performs with Auckland-based artist Judi Cranston, and his album, beetBITE, have earned him a Recorded Music NZ Best Children’s Music Artist nomination.

Levity, who has been recognised for his music at previous year’s awards, says his nominations were “exciting”.

“The recorded music nomination I’m pretty happy about because that’s a new proj-

ect where I’ve collaborated with Robin Nathan [from Auckland] who has a brand of music called Fleabite, and together we call ourselves beetBITE.

“Robin’s been one of my favourite kids music producers for years before I produced kids’ music… so it feels like quite a special thing for me to be working with someone who I’ve admired for such a long time, and to have our collaboration acknowledged, it’s pretty exciting.

“Then the preschool song nomination… I felt like I learned a lot of attention to detail in the audio production side of things because that’s where my strengths as a writer lie.”

Levity says Funny Little Bunny was released in March last year, and it has since racked up 84,000 Spotify streams worldwide and its lyric video has 100,000 views on YouTube. He says its inspiration was to stimulate brain connections for children by pairing movement with singing.

Levity’s August 2023-released album, beetBite, which has been made into two collections featuring five songs on each, includes a unique sound effect.

“The title track, called the beetBITE beat, the rhythm and background is a ping pong game, and we’ve sped it up a bit because we wanted a higher BPM,” he says.

“One of my favourite songs is called Echo Locating Machine and we started that from really discorded, strange machine sounds and feedback frequencies. Even though that sounds like a terrible thing to listen to, it somehow really works.

“For the song, Meet the Squeakies, we got heaps of squeaky toys and we recorded all the squeaks, Truck In The Muck is one that is made from the turning on and turning off of trucks and truck horns, and Bull in a China Shop has a rhythm section made from smashing plates, and teacups.”

The award winners will be announced on 5 May.

Celebration of a quiet and deep-rooted legacy

ELISE VOLLWEILER

A quiet man, who steadfastly did what he believed was right and stood beside people who lived on the margins, has been honoured by his family and friends with the unveiling of a crafted bench seat.

Ron Sharp, a gentle and understated Motueka stalwart, passed away a year ago this month, aged 86. A group of friends and family, including his children Nicole and Daniel and his wife Edith, gathered recently to celebrate the man who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make the community a better and kinder place.

A driving force behind the foundation of the Motueka Community Gardens, Ron was also involved with Motueka Community House, the Abel Tasman Education Trust, Catholic Social Teaching, Green Dollar or skill-swap programmes, and many other groups and charities besides. Ron was strongly involved and invested in his community and would attend almost any community meeting going, although in his later years, he could be found catching up on sleep as well as matters arising.

A carved two-person bench seat, rich with symbolism, will sit patiently on the family farm in Riwaka, as a memorial to a man who loved to stop to ponder life’s wonders or pause for a yarn with a friend.

Crafted by Ron’s friend Terry Parkin, the seat is crafted from elm, totara, eucalyptus seligna, kauri and matai – all giants within the forest, “like Ron in his quiet humble way,” reflects his daughter Nicole. “Ron’s life was like a waka, sending ripples to the furthest shores.”

An emblem on the back of the memorial seat reads, “In loving memory of Ron Sharp. Forever the peaceful warrior. Planting seeds of hope and acceptance in all our hearts.”

The day of the unveiling was one of heavy rain, but Nicole knew that her father, a keen gardener, would have wholeheartedly approved.

“The land needed it more than we needed the sun – it was quite fitting,” she says fondly. Ron had trained as a Catholic priest but his progressive and humanist mindset led him to a life of helping people outside of the formal confines of the

church.

“He always believed in the goodness of humanity, and that change is possible,” Nicole says. She never saw much of a fighter in her gentle father, a man who went everywhere on pushbike and loved a good singalong.

However, she knows through many other people’s stories that he would battle untiringly in the underdog’s corner.

“He really stood up for the people who were mistreated,” she says, recounting how Ron had stood beside Ngāti Whātua at Bastion Point, and marched against the Springbok Tour.

Tara Forde, a long-time collaborator and friend, says that there was probably not a committee or group in Motueka that Ron was not involved with in some way. She remembers him as a “steady and persistent force for good in the world”.

“His calm demeanour held hope for a better world – one where all people are valued for who they are and what they have to contribute.”

She says that Ron always had a well-considered way to help, and she offered thanks to him for “seeing the best in me and so many others”.

Community stalwart Ron Sharp, right, was celebrated at the family farm in Riwaka this month, one year after his death. Photo: Supplied.

Split Apple Rock to represent region on Monopoly board

Split Apple Rock has been voted the most popular landmark to represent the region in a local Monopoly edition being produced by Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce (NTCC). After receiving 87 different suggestions that included Ernest Rutherford’s head, Tahuna playground whale and the Nelson Giants mascot, the eight most popular suggestions were then put to the vote. “I’m not surprised it won because when most people think of Abel Tasman, they think of Split Apple Rock,” says NTCC chief executive Ali Boswijk. There are eight player tokens on a typical Monopoly board and while each token can be purchased by local businesses, NTCC decided to give the public the opportunity to vote for one of the pewter tokens. NTCC plan to accept pre order sales of the local Monopoly edition by winter 2024.

Fatal crash Buller Gorge

One person died following a crash on State Highway 6 in the Lower Buller Gorge on Saturday. Police were alerted to the single-vehicle crash between Heaphys and Bucklands Peak Roads at around 6.15pm. Sadly, despite the efforts of first responders, the driver, who was the only person in the vehicle, was unable to be revived and died at the scene. Police are providing support to their whānau at this difficult time and a blessing of the crash scene is being arranged in consultation with next of kin. Serious Crash Unit have conducted a scene examination, and enquiries are ongoing to determine the cause of the crash.

Driver admits causing crash that killed motorcyclist on SH60

Open

Justice Reporter

A driver who turned in front of an oncoming motorcyclist admitted to having seen him but thought she had enough time to turn safely.

However, Carole Diane Chapman’s decision led to the death of Anthony Keen and an appearance in the Nelson District Court on Monday where she admitted a charge of careless use of a vehicle causing death.

Keen died of a head injury after he was thrown from his Ducati by the impact, at an intersection with State Highway 60 in Tasman District and the road leading to the village of Māpua, between Nelson and Motueka.

The 29-year-old was originally from Hapuku, Kaikōura, police said.

The accident happened about 2.30pm on January 17 this year when Chapman, who had pulled into a turning lane on the highway and was waiting to turn right into Māpua Drive, suddenly turned in front of Keen as he approached the intersection on a sweeping downhill segment of the highway.

Keen was riding within the 100kmh speed limit and had the right of way.

He did not have time to brake or avoid Chapman’s car and crashed into the front left corner of the vehicle.

Keen was thrown from his motorbike, landed 10 to 15 metres away, and died at the scene.

Keen, who was a member of the Riccarton Baptist Church in Christchurch and worked at Avodah spiritual respite centre in Kaikōura, was remembered as a brother and a friend.

The church posted an online tribute to Keen the day after his death.

“Our prayers and support go out to the family and friends of Anthony Keen, Avodah Kaikoura [Avodah is a Hebrew word for prayer or service], who was tragically killed in a motorbike accident yesterday,” it said.

“Anthony was a brother and friend to all the Avodah members and is remembered as a man sold out for Jesus, who gave his life to introduce others to Him too.

“We come together as a community at this time to support each other in this grief.

“Please reach out if you need to talk, vent, cry or just be, with someone else.”

Judge Stephen Harrop said it was a tragic case before convicting Chapman and remanding her for sentence on August 1, with restorative justice to be explored.

Bus service costs overshoot by $1m

SARA HOLLYMAN

Tasman is being asked to come up with $180,000 of unbudgeted funds to help pay for the more than $1millon overspend of the region’s new eBus service.

Tasman District and Nelson City councillors heard at last week’s Joint Nelson Tasman Regional Transport Committee that the rollout of the service had gone $1,050,000 over budget, that the money had already been spent, and that a request needed to go to each council to cover their share of the overspend.

Margaret Parfitt TRACY NEAL

Once both councils agree to fund their share – $582,000 for Nelson and $180,000 for Tasman, a request will go to NZTA Waka Kotahi to cover the rest.

Nelson City Council manager transport and solid waste, Margaret Parfitt, told the committee the context

of the overspend was important on the “successful” service.

She explained that the overrun was in part due to the “complexities” of the public transport environment, including that operational costs were split 75/25 between NCC and TDC respectively, but staff costs were split 50/50.

Margaret also said the budgets were set back in 2021, long before the rollout eventuated.

Staff movements in the leadup to the service’s rollout also didn’t help the situation, she said. “There’s stuff we just didn’t know.”

Oversights included the $27k cost of installing wifi on the buses which hadn’t been budgeted for and the contract wasn’t clear on who would cover the cost of the livery on the buses, so it fell to councils not the service

provider.

However, Tasman District Council transportation manager Jamie McPherson said the service was setting new records of patronage.

“February set a record of 90,000 passengers, then March set another record of 92,000,” he told the committee.

“There’s stuff we just didn’t know.”

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith, along with the rest of the committee, sought assurances the cost overruns would not continue.

“The costs for the ratepayer are significant, even eyewatering,” should NZTA Waka

Kotahi not agree to contribute the 51 per cent share, Nick said.

Margaret said there was very limited cost savings to be made.

“We have stopped advertising the service. That budget has been spent. We could stop the overflow buses, but we would be leaving people on the side of the road which will be damaging… We are getting requests for more overflow buses. You could stop that service and save $10k a month.”

Nelson City councillor Mel Courtney supported the service and, in turn, the overspend.

“When a business is growing it’s very difficult to manage. We’ve got to be understanding of the fact that when you build a business and get fantastic growth… You must go with it or it will be a poor result in the end,” Mel said.

Anthony Keen died after he was thrown from his Ducati in January. Photo: Supplied.

Grand Master for queen of clubs

“If you have good [bridge] partners you can get there.

Cannell, whom she competed alongside for 25 years.

playing 500 [a card game], you’d love playing bridge.

South regional bridge committee as its treasurer.

“I didn’t want to play that old lady’s game”, was Jana Bott’s first impression of bridge when she tagged along with a friend to Nelson Bridge Club in 1977. But where the cards have fallen for the now 71-year-old Motueka bridge player is Grand Master status.

“It has taken a long time to get there, [30 years], and it’s pretty much an honour. I’ve really enjoyed every minute of playing, and playing with some amazing people,” she says.

“In recent years I’ve travelled all over the country and each time you play in a tournament you get more what we call ‘A’ points.

“You need 500 ‘A’ points to become a Grand Master, and normally you get them in twos, fives, tens and 20s is the most you can earn at one time.”

Jana says one of her bridge partners was fellow Motueka Contract Bridge Club member Ray

She says she was “hooked” on bridge after six weeks of keeping a friend company at Nelson Bridge Club, where she is still a member, in 1977.

“I loved every second of it… it was a revelation to me that it was a fantastic game,” she says.

“The one thing about bridge is that no matter how long you play you’re still learning, if you like

“It’s full of logic, the ability to count, and companionship.”

Jana, who has also been a member at Richmond Contract Bridge Club for 14 years and at Motueka Contract Bridge Club for 10 years, says she would play bridge up to four times a week at the three of clubs, or online, on her Grand Master journey.

She also serves on the Top of the

Jana says more young people should come out from under the bridge to try their hand at the card game.

“For school kids, playing bridge online is really good for them,” she says.

Email: rjtip@kinect.co.nz to register for beginner evening lessons at Motueka Contract Bridge Club.

Jana Bott has come up trumps in her bridge career. Photo: Supplied.

ROBYN PARKES

In February 1927 the Motueka Progress League held its first meeting to advance the development and interests of the district. The first actions of the League were to organise a clean-up of house frontages, to approach the Council for a regular rubbish service and to query the site of the library being too far away from the centre of town. Within a few years interest had waned, with much of the work falling on the shoulders of only a few members.

In November 1934 a large group attended the AGM where a call went out to strengthen the League and to give representation throughout the district. Local bodies and public organisations were reminded that they should have a voice in the League but also should be sharing the work. Also raised was the issue that certain local bodies were financially

Local History

supporting the Nelson Progress League, thereby impeding the development and expansion of the Motueka League.

Following conversations concerning the tar-sealing of the main Motueka - Nelson highway and shortening the route via Rabbit Island, thus speeding up transport between the two centres, Mayor R. York loudly and emphatically protested, stating - “Gloves off! Mars for Martians, Nelson for Nelsonians and Motueka above all for Motuekaians”.

“The onus is on this progress league to support its own district and we look to the people to support Motueka. Hops, tobacco, and fruit represent the principal industries of the Nelson district —and where are they produced?

Motueka is the answer, and for this reason Nelson, to an extent, has become dependent upon Motueka. The time has arrived

when we should consider our own district first. It’s all very well to shorten the main highway in order to transport our goods to Nelson, but surely our first consideration is our own harbour.”

A loud round of applause followed.

A new constitution was framed, and a comprehensive programme of actions were adopted for year 1935.

On the agenda was:

(1) Development of Moutere Estuary Rd.

(2) Advocacy for the Motueka Aerodrome for air transport ser-

vices.

(3) Re-open the question of mudflat reclamation improving the drainage and value of the land.

(4) Motueka and Takaka Districts for tourist routes.

(5) Development of Onekaka iron resources.

(6) Taking up with Government the question of tobacco industry in which the League had an interest.

(7) Improvements to Takaka Hill.

(8) Beautification work in Motueka borough.

(9) Carnival Easter week. A huge effort went into organising a successful Easter week for Motueka with multiple events planned by the League. Motueka Amateur Athletic Club was approached to participate and confirmed a sports meeting to be held on Easter Monday. A Progress League booklet was circulated containing descriptions of the district, primary industries,

commercial activities, and photographs of resorts, orchards, tobacco fields, hop gardens etc.

Motueka Aero club agreed to run an air pageant with eight to ten planes on Easter Saturday and hoped to have Flying Officer “Scotty” Fraser in attendance with his parachute. In conjunction car enthusiasts were invited to show their cars.

A shopping week was supported by the local Retailers Association with a shop window dressing competition. This was judged at the beginning of Easter weekend with ‘Self-Help’ by J Morgan winning.

A procession of decorated lorries, cars, bicycles, prams etc was held on Easter Monday leaving from Whakarewa St to Pah St. Prizes were given for the best in each category including one for the best decorated billy cart. The Progress League were congratulated on a very successful event.

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MS Ford

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Hospice launches ‘hands-up’ campaign

After stretching its helping hands throughout the community for 36 years, Nelson Tasman Hospice is asking for a hand of its own. Hands up for Hospice appeal launches next week as the major fundraiser for the service that faces a $3.5m funding shortfall each year.

Since 1987, the service has provided essential palliative care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses, and now assists around 210 patients and their whānau each month, free of charge.

The bi-annual appeal, which runs for the month of May, helps with much-needed funds to plug the $3.5 million shortfall to cover day-today operational costs such as insurance, utility costs and payroll, as well as ensuring it can continue to provide specialist palliative care for free throughout the community.

With five main ways to get involved, the month will culminate with a ‘Heave for Hospice’

tug-of-war team competition on Upper Trafalgar St on 31 May.

If a tug-of war isn’t your thing, consider a ‘High Tea for Hospice’, ‘Host for Hospice’, or ‘Raise for Hospice’. To help boost the funds, NBS is running a month-long textto-donate campaign, where the banking services provider will match your donation dollar-for-dollar up to a total of $10,000.

Nelson Tasman Hospice chief executive Tony Gray hopes the variety of events throughout the month-long appeal will continue to increase awareness about all the ways Hospice touches the lives of people in the community when they need it.

“A lot of people associate Hospice with our specialist palliative care unit in Stoke, which is definitely an important aspect of our kaupapa, but Hospice is so much more.

“Our team of over 45 health clinicians are also out caring

for and supporting people who need specialist care in their own homes, in aged care facilities, in Nelson Hospital and 24/7 over the phone.

“They include doctors, nurses, and health care assistants, as well as our allied health team of social workers, clinical psychologists and others needed to ensure our community receives holistic palliative care,” Tony says.

“Basically, we’re focused on ensuring the support that’s needed at some of the most challenging times for people is wherever it is needed.”

Hands Up for Hospice encourages the community to put its ‘hands’ together and organise fundraising events (big or small) or make a donation.

Registrations for hosting teas, events or joining the heave are open now through the end of May.

Learn more about Hands Up for Hospice and register today at hand supforhospice.org.nz

Your electricity discount is on its way

Network Tasman is pleased to announce that its consumers will receive a discount credit on their next power bill.

$7.3m of discounts to be paid to consumers

Network Tasman will credit $7.3m to consumers’ next power enabled Network Tasman to credit more than $250 million of discounts back to consumers in the region since the discount scheme’s inception in 1994.

Network Tasman will credit $14.1m in discounts back to consumers in 2023/24: $6.8m was credited to consumers in September 2023, and $7.3m will be credited in the coming weeks.

The Hospice team putting their hands up for a good cause at the Nelson Tasman Hospice facility in Stoke. Photo: Tim Cuff.

Out&About

Adam Wilson and Amy MacIver

Charlie Kilpatrick, 5, Brent Kilpatrick, and Evie Berquist, 4

Jack Kilpatrick, 7, Addison Reuben, 1, Chelsea Martin, and Blake Berquist, 2

Mike Lynch and Ben Leith

Prashanti Lovegrove, and Medea GriederGeorge

Andy and Bev Kenny

Christopher von Roy and Tyla Scott

Lesley and Dean Iggo

Saree Dickson and Darren Mills

Siorche Harris and Matt Corbett

New team ensures extra hospital support

KATE RUSSELL

A new team has been created at Nelson Hospital to provide extra support and advice to patients and whānau.

The Patient at Risk (PAR) team was introduced this month as part of Health New Zealand’s expansion into critical care units.

The team is made up of 10 experienced acute care nurses who will work alongside ward nurses and junior doctors to provide support and advice.

Additionally, they will assist in escalating care when clinically indicated and ensure patients and whānau across the Top of the South are getting the best possible care.

Rupert Murch, clinical nurse educator ICCU (Intensive Coronary Care Unit) at Health NZ Nelson Marlborough, says the team will play an essential role in ensuring that patients who could be at risk of deteriorating are identified in a timely manner and receive treatment. “Patients and whānau can call the team directly, and we will all work together to improve outcomes for all.”

Sandy-McLean Cooper, director of nursing and midwifery at Health NZ Nelson Marlborough, says the team has been chosen for their high level of clinical and communication skills. “We are grateful for all the amazing staff who work on wards across our district and at Nelson Hospital, the PAR team will make a difference to the people we care for.”

If patients or their whānau have any concerns over the care they are receiving, they are encouraged to call 022 014 9123 or 9292 from a hospital phone.

Back row, from left: Rupert Murch (clinical nurse educator ICCU at Health NZ Nelson Marlborough) with the new Patient at Risk Team, Natalie Gallagher, Anna Rogers, Louise Harrison, Kylie Fenwick, Victoria Hart, and Sacha McCarten. Front row: Chris Ridyard, Abbey Johnson, Rebekah Aberdour and Holly Meek. Photo: Supplied.

What’s On

Karmakaze

Enduro 2024

Sunday, 28 April, 9.45am Race Briefing

Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park consists of the most progressive and technical trails in the park. Grade 4/5’s are on the menu. Multiple climbs to the top, so a solid level of fitness and technical riding skills are required. $45 Open, Masters & E-bike $35 for Riders Under 16 (Note: U13’s must be accompanied by an adult).

Clay Play – Pottery Club Opening

Sunday, 28 April, 2pm – 4pm

289 Main Road Lower Moutere (Riverside Community Cultural Centre)

Join Tanja from Riverside Education at the opening of Riverside’s ‘Clay Play Club’, where people of all ages can come and craft with clay. No registrations are required. Please bring some koha to cover materials (recommended $10 per adult, $5 per child).

Back from the brink and gliding into the future

Well done, Riwaka Scout Group. May you enjoy many more years of Scouting.

Irene Anderson

So proud of you my friend.

Tracy Rolle

Nice work KJ!

Jeff McLaren

Rainwater eases water deliveries

Our first couple of years on tank water and yes, Nigel is correct, we have learnt a lot! Incredible how fast the tanks run dry. After years of being on the town water supply, I now have a different appreciation for water usage. So thankful to Nigel and his company for “keeping us afloat” over the summer.

Kelly’s Kete

Interesting read.

Katie Prosser

We still need more rain.

Kathryn Nott

We are in a “green drought” now, flush of green but no decent consistent rain yet.

Tania Tones Lawrence

Growing for the future

That’s fantastic, so impressed . Harvesting seed and germinating them is a real art.

Steph Moynihan

Fantastic work, Bill!! Jennie Young

Yes you Mr Bill. Tazz Lee

Cultural Conversations Podcast

Exhibition – 8 April – 4 May

An Art Exhibition of Portraits and listen to Podcasts highlighting our migrant communities. The podcasts of these true stories of migrants can be downloaded using the QR code in your own time and location.

Make and Colour ANZAC Poppies

Make a paper poppy to add to our poppy wall or colour a poppy to add to our outside field of poppies display.

Kerry Sunderland’s “Belonging in the Baton Valley Book talk

Tuesday 30 April, 6pm-7pm for TUKU 24 Bookings required through www. kerrysunderlandwriter.com/tuku-24-batonvalley-talk

Building Bricks with Adrian Barbour, 29 April, Monday 3.30pm-5pm

Wriggle & Rhyme – 29 April Monday, 10.30am-11am

Storytime – Thursday 2 May, 10am10.30am

Babbling Books – 2 May, Thursday, 1pm2pm

Paper Artsy – Thursday, 2 May, 1.30pm3.30pm

It’s all on the app. Are you?

The Nelson App has been the go-to place for the latest news and sport since 2017.

Every day tens of thousands of Nelsonians open the app to stay informed about what's happening in our region. But it isn't just news on the app, it features up-coming events, funeral notices, the latest property for sale, flight information, places to eat and drink, local businesses, weather and tide reports, a TV guide and much more. So, next time you open the around, you might be surprised what you find.

• NEWS

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• SPORTS

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• FUNERALS

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• OUTAGES

Game, Set, Maestro for club’s new coach

JACK MALCOLM

Motueka Tennis Club’s new coach Rita Paczian says there’s a blank canvas to make her mark.

With 30 current members, she wants to be part of the driving force of revitalisation in the club with ambitions to one day build it up to the point where they have a team to compete in the local interclub competition for the first time.

As a professional coach for almost two decades, she wants to bring her experience to the courts and bring more young players into the space.

“Motueka is a fantastic place to play tennis. Not only is the climate good, but they have great facilities at the club,” she says.

With plans to increase their offerings for busy families, she says it will be interesting to see who comes out of the woodwork.

As a current A-grade player for Richmond Tennis Club, she says it would be fantastic to one day represent her new local club.

Rita moved to Motueka in late 2022 from Auckland’s North Shore, leaving behind an arts industry in strife as they battled the effects of a global pandemic.

As a globally-acclaimed conductor, it was a story in the Motueka Guardian that got the ball rolling with tennis coaching again.

She says an article in March about her invitation to per-

form at New York’s Carnegie Hall, which mentioned her tennis coaching past, saw the club approach her to be their new coach.

“Tennis is a great addition to music. Being a conductor is quite physical, and there’s a lot of coordination with your hands.”

Rita immigrated to New Zealand from Germany in 1994, having been a professional table tennis player as a youngster because it was more affordable than tennis.

But the skills were transferable, and by 2004 she was living in Queensland and trained as a tennis coach under Mal Murphy, the president and head of training of the Australian Tennis Professional Coaches Association. From there, she was a coach at local clubs as she moved back to New Zealand, most recently assisting Deanne Alter at Northcote Tennis Club and Hugo Santos at the Snell Beach Tennis Club.

Rita’s local coaching will be available from 8 May for players of all ages and abilities, for more information contact the club.

Rita Paczian, above, might be trading the conductor’s baton for a tennis racket with her newest venture, but it’s not unfamiliar territory.

NBS Motueka Golf Club Results

Photo: Supplied.

Right: Rita Paczian with former club mate Shannon Paki after the pair cleaned up the local Thames Club Champs. Photo: Supplied.

Community Notices

MONDAY

SENIORNET MOTUEKA, Mon, 6 May, 10.30am, 42 Pah St. Join us to hear David Ogilvie speak at SeniorNet's meeting. Open to all, visitors welcome.

MOTUEKA ELYSIUM Mon, 9.30am, Muses Café. For Widows and Widowers. Join us for coffee and chat, friendship, and support. Ph: Carol 035285027.

WOULD YOU LIKE A BIKE? Bike Hub Nelson accepts donations of good used bikes, fixes them up and gives them away for a small koha. 142 Saxton Rd. Mon, 5.30-7pm. For other opening times and a map e: bikehubnelson@gmail.com.

MOTUEKA BETTER BREATHERS, Mon, 11.30am, Motueka Recreation Gym ‘Functional Fitness Room’, Old Wharf Rd. A 60-minute series of guided exercises done seated or standing, specifically designed to help those with breathing difficulties. Ph: Jess 0275467675.

MOTUEKA HIGHLAND PIPE BAND, Mon, 7pm. Band is located beside Motueka Recreation Centre. Promoting Scottish tradition and culture. We look forward to your participation. More info: Ph: 027284 8361.

MAPUA FRIENDSHIP CLUB. Indoor bowls, 1st & 3rd Mon. Mapua Bowling Club rooms. 2pm, Bring a plate of afternoon tea. Lots of laughs. Ph: Val 035403685.

TUESDAY / WEDNESDAY

MOCKINGBIRDS MUSIC GROUP, Tues, 2-3.30pm, Senior Net, Pah St. If you enjoy some fun singing/playing music, come along with your instrument, we’d love you to join us. Beginners very welcome.

Ph: Sue 02102416155.

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.

MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL office at Community House, Decks reserve. Wed, 11-3pm. Inquiries about art activities; funding for Art; Art ideas for Motueka. Ph: 0210589388.

AGE CONCERN TEA & TALK, Every 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. Ph: Roz 027415636. All welcome.

WALK 4 HEALTH, Wed, 8.30m, Motueka Community Garden. 3050 min walk at your own pace, for any age, any fitness and size. Ph:0273015598 or wellontrack@gmail.com

MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL invites all folk interested in community arts in Motueka, to their monthly meetings. 2nd Wed of month, 7pm, community house.

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.

THURSDAY / FRIDAY

MOTUEKA LIGHTHOUSE presents Greg Jones, Transforming Your Life Within, Thurs, 25 Apr, 7-9pm, Motueka Community House, Opposite Isite. Specialist in back pain, arthritis and more. All welcome. e: angel3000.h@gmail.com or https://www.facebook.com/lighthousemotueka/. Donation Appreciated.

MEDITATION, Weekly meditation sessions open to all. Thurs, 12.1512.45pm, Te Noninga Kumu - Motueka Library. During term time. No registration needed. Just come along. More info: Ph: Louise Petzold 0278789240.

NELSON BAYS HARMONY CHORUS, (women’s choir), is seeking new members to join our happy group. Thurs evenings, Club Waimea, Richmond. Ph: Carole 0274360910.

MOTUEKA 50+ WALKING GROUP every Thurs. More info Ph: 0212640403 e: secretary50pluswalkers@gmail.com, or www.motueka50pluswalkers.org.nz.

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

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

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY

SEND

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

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meet 1st Thurs of the month, 1.30-3.30pm, Broadgreen House, 276 Nayland Rd. Ph: Bill 035448635 or 035391137.

MOTUEKA G.R.G 2nd & 4th Thurs, 1-3pm, St Andrews lounge, 64 High St. Support group welcomes grandparents/kin raising/ supporting grandchildren. Join us for a confidential relaxed and supportive time with others. Ph: 0211337299.

SENIORNET MOTUEKA, The Genealogy Interest Group meets 2nd Fri, 2pm. Ph: Allan 0279711100 or visit www.seniornetmotueka. org.nz

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

AMPUTEE SOCIETY TOP OF THE SOUTH, Morning Tea, Sat, 4 May, 10am onwards, Toad Hall. For amputees and carers.

CELTIC PIPE BAND CEILIDH DANCE, Sat, 25 May, 7-9pm, Nayland College Hall. Immerse yourself in an evening of vibrant Traditional Scottish Dancing and Music. Indulge in the spirit of the Highlands with our Licensed Bar featuring Whiskey, while relishing a delightful Haggis & light Supper. Don your Kilt, Highland dress, Tartan Accessories. Tickets from Richmond Mall Info Desk.

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

NELSON BRANCH OF ROYAL NZ AIRFORCE ASSOCIATION Meet 2nd Sat each month, 12pm, Club Waimea, Richmond, Phil’s Restaurant. Interesting speakers, raffles and members interested in Aviation Ph: Trever Squires 039706644 or John Bethwaite 035476634. Cost of meal $25

GENERAL GROUPS

SALTWATER BATHS Next clean out, Tues, 30 Apr. Refilled mid pm.

RUM MORRIS DANCERS. Musicians and dancers but mostly friends. Slightly random - mostly Tues evenings, sometimes Wed. Get yourself a second favourite form of aerobic exercise. Ph: Dorris

02040618088.

MOTUEKA RIDING FOR THE DISABLED We need more volunteers to help with therapeutic riding sessions. Tues, Wed, Thurs, 8.30-1pm. Ph: 0211151720 or e: info@motuekarda.nz.

COMMUNITY HARAKEKE WEAVING project by Motueka Art Council is on now at the Library daily till Christmas, everyone can contribute as we weave a tree of putiputi. Special sessions for beginners wanting to learn. Free event.

GREYPOWER MOTUEKA welcomes visitors at the Community House office, Decks Reserve on Wallace St. for ongoing service requests. Discount provider list available. Ph: 035289076 or e: greypowermot@gmail.com.

INDOOR BOWLS, Mon & Wed, 1.15-3pm, Motueka Over 50s Hub, 10 Pah St. All abilities welcome. Ph: Jude 0273244226

RIWAKA CROQUET CLUB, do you and a group of friends/family/ workmates want to spend a fun few hours learning to play croquet? You need a minimum of 8 players, $10 each, all equipment provided and someone from our club to help you learn the game. Full access to the clubhouse kitchen. For info Ph: 0276308910.

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

MOTUEKA MENZSHED Wed or Thurs 9-12pm, MenzShed, Marchwood Park, College Rd. We have a variety of projects on the go, come and see for yourself. e: secretarymotmenzShed@gmail.com or just turn up.

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

RED CROSS MOTUEKA BRANCH Fundraising shop, open Mon – Fri, 10-2pm. Community House, Decks Reserve. We sell clothing, household linen and books. Donations of sellable goods are appreciated.

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

MULTICULTURAL MOTUEKA welcomes migrants and refugees every Tues & Fri, 8.30 -1pm, Community House, Decks Reserve. We

provide connection and practical assistance for newcomers to our region as well as support for all cultural activities happening in our community. Ph 027 5286744 or sez@multiculturalnt.co.nz.

MOTUEKA TENNIS CLUB. INC. Social Tennis, Tues & Thurs, 9.30am, Sun, 2pm. Courts behind the Memorial Hall Pah St. Racquets available to borrow for new Members. All welcome.

GATEWAY TO YOUR WELLBEING, Wellbeing is important for all of us to thrive. The shed is a safe place to meet new people in a supportive and caring environment. We can connect you with other agencies for the right support needed. More info Ph: 0279214074, E: admin@ ght.co.nz or pop in 24a Tudor St, Motueka.

MOTUEKA DISTRICT BRASS Do you want to be part of a fun, social and competitive band, who make players welcome? e: motueka. brass@gmail.com or Ph: 021728168

MOTUEKA NEWCOMERS New to Motueka? We’re a social group, mostly retired (50+) who meet regularly and welcome newcomers. More info Ph: Jana 035284355.

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

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

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

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

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

RADIO CONTROL SAILING Wed and Sun, 1pm onwards, Best Island. Weather permitting. IOMs and Dragon Force etc. New members welcome. More info Ph: Peter 0275443923.

MOTUEKA DISTRICT TOY LIBRARY, Tues, and Thurs, 9-11am, and Sat, 10-12pm, 44 Pah St. Annual membership $30. Hundreds of toys for all ages.

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.

Little Kaiteriteri Tasman For rent from April 2024November 2024. $550.00 per week. Sea Views, Sunny, Peaceful, One Bedroom furnishedunit. Unlimited broadband Wi-Fi included (no tv supplied). Off street Parking for car. W/M & drier. Would Suit working couple. Testimonials and References required. Enquire now. Call 021 069 3824

William Leo (Bill)

15.8.1946 - 15.4.2024

Passed away peacefully in his favourite chair with a cuppa tea, at Woodlands Care Home. Loved father and father-in-law of Mark and Cab, and grandfather to Reuben, Bronte, and Danielle. In accordance with Bill’s wishes a private farewell has been held.

28.6.1937 - 14.4.2024

Dearly loved husband of Marjorie for 65 years. Loved & admired father & father-in-law of Simone & Darryl, and Kurtis & Chico. Beloved brother & brother-in-law of Carol & Tony, Graham & Judy, Jim & Karen, and Kate, Mary* & Lois McMillan. As per Rob’s request, a private ceremony has taken place.