Pests on the radar
A predator control project led by local Mārahau volunteers has reached a new milestone: 1000 pests down… and counting.
The Mārahau Halo Trapping Project, founded by local accommodation providers Chris Palzer and Jared Bosecke in 2020, is designed to support pest trapping work being carried out inside neighbouring Abel Tasman National Park by the Abel Tasman Birdsong Trust, the Department of Conservation and Project Janszoon. Having volunteered in the park, Chris and Jared saw an opportunity to strengthen that work by adding a line of defence outside the park’s southern border.
“Our lines complement the work in the park, as well as in the Otūwhero Valley and the wetlands, with the aim of cre-
ating a pest-free halo around the southern entrance to the park,” says Chris.
The Mārahau Halo Trapping Project is entirely locally funded and was one of the first recipients of funding from the Mārahau Pledge, a practical commitment by local businesses operating in the visitor sector in Mārahau to protect and enhance the area.
The pledge initiative sees a portion of every ticketed experience or guest night with the local signatories in Mārahau invested directly into local projects that contribute to improving biodiversity, conservation and community outcomes in Mārahau.
The Mārahau Halo Trapping Project received $12,500 in Pledge funding.
Ocean View Chalets owners Chris Palzer and Jared Bosecke started the Mārahau Halo Trapping Project to support pest control work in the Abel Tasman National Park. Photo: Supplied.
Tākaka Hill repairs complete
Work at the underslip site on State Highway 60 Tākaka Hill has wrapped up just in time for the busy holiday season with the road now reopened to two lanes. Since June, the road has been restricted to one lane and stop/go traffic management after a slip occurred uphill from the Riwaka Valley Rd intersection during a heavy rain event.
Rob Service, system manager Nelson/Tasman, says a project of this size and scope would usually take around 12 months to complete.
“However, our crews worked swiftly and managed to complete the project in six months. They drew on their experience from constructing similar repairs on this section of State Highway 60, and across the country.
“We promised the community we would have this underslip repaired and the road restored to two lanes before Christmas, and we are delighted to have delivered on that commitment.”
He says the repair has required big effort from contractors.
“Over the last six months they
have installed a new steel post and timber batten wall. They have built more resilient and improved, drainage, constructed a new pavement, and completed line marking. Planting will be carried out at the site next year.
“I especially want to thank the Golden Bay community, transport operators, and other road users for their patience and understanding while this critical project was completed.
“Getting the road fixed has been as much a priority for them as it has been for us,” Rob says.
Towering sculpture stands tall over Mārahau estuary
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A striking new sculpture has been unveiled to welcome the people of Mārahau’s past, present and future.
The artwork, which takes the form of two waka and stands at more than 5 metres high, is made from painted aluminium and carved wood.
Tim Wraight, who has lived in Mārahau for 15 years, was commissioned by the Mārahau Sandy Bay Ratepayers and Residents Association to create a work of art that “reflects the relationship of the community with their beautiful environment and to welcome visitors to this special place”.
“It has been wonderful to be able to create a work for my community which reflects our values and honours the special environment in which we live,” Tim says.
“The patterns cut into the aluminium represent the natural
world we live in, and the two waka forms represent all the people who have lived here in the past, present and in the future.”
Tim’s workshop is a converted tobacco kiln that overlooks the estuary where the sculpture stands.
He says the piece took most of this year to create, and the process involved metal fabricators, spray painters and other local businesses, as well as his own woodcarving skills, “so a big effort by many”.
On Saturday, 7 December, the communities of Mārahau and Otuwhero gathered to unveil and bless the sculpture, which cost $80,000 to construct. Just under half of this total was donated by the Dallimore and Sanders family trusts, both families having a long association with Marahau.
The Rāta Foundation donated $15,000, and the Mārahau Pledge matched individual donations to reach the final total.
ELISE VOLLWEILER
Completed underslip repairs, SH60 Tākaka Hill. Photo: NZTA.
The sculpture, which sits beside the Otuwhero estuary, was unveiled earlier this month and blessed by Kevin Miratana (Ngati Mutunga, Raukawa and Te Ati Awa). Photo: Supplied.
Pests on the radar
FROM PAGE 1
Other businesses have also pitched in, and Chris and Jared say it’s been a real community effort.
“Thanks to that donation, and those of every business operator in Mārahau, we have been able to establish these trap lines, which now require very little in terms of monetary contributions,” Chris says.
So far, they have purchased more than 130 traps and, with the help of a team of volunteers, established five trap lines that run parallel to those inside the park.
“Locals have been great, and there is a good rhythm going on now. It’s been great to be able to work closely with neighbouring conservation groups, too.”
As of this week, the group had put paid to 1109 pests, including rats, possums, hedgehogs and mustelids (ferrets, stoats and weasels). You can follow their progress on trap.nz
REPOWER & SERVICE CENTRE
The children at Oasis Education Centre must have been very good indeed, as Santa had a present for each and every one of them at the early childhood centre’s Christmas party earlier this month. Jackson Ballantine was happy to have a chat with Santa about what might be waiting under the Christmas tree for him on the big day. Photo: Supplied.
Tapawera’s top of the class
GORDON PREECE
A fine and dandy prize for a fine artist who can also ride high in the saddle.
Cheyenne Phyn was named Tapawera Area School’s dux for 2024 on 16 December, an achievement which felt full circle for the 18-yearold, who’d attended the rural school since day dot.
“It was quite a thrilling reaction to be fair, very proud of the people who got me there and myself, I couldn’t be happier,” she says.
“I always sat about the middle of my class, but I wanted to go to university, so I felt having a good academic report is extremely important, and it helps with that experience and getting accepted.
“[Dux is] also something I’ve seen a lot of people being awarded throughout my time at school, and I thought I’d love to be in that position and provide that recognition for someone else.”
kerbside collections for Christmas and New Year
Rubbish and recycling collections scheduled for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day will move to Thursday. All other collections in those weeks will also be one day later.
Resource Recovery Centre opening hours
Motueka Resource Recovery Centre
93 Robinson Road, Lower Moutere
Monday – Friday 8.00 am – 4.00 pm
• Saturday 9.00 am – 4.00 pm
• Sunday 11.00 am – 4.00 pm
• Closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
Collections in the Kaiteriteri area
This summer, the collection schedule will remain the same as throughout the rest of the year. Rubbish bags will be collected weekly, and recycling will be picked up every fortnight on your usual collection day. For any extra recycling, you can use the container near the bridge in Kaiteriteri. Additional rubbish bags should be taken to the Motueka Resource Recovery Centre.
Please place your recycling bins and rubbish bags on the roadside in a location where our drivers can see them clearly. If you leave the area prior to collection day or have extra, you can drop your official rubbish bags and recycling at any Resource Recovery Centre free of charge.
Make sure you do not overfill your recycling bin or glass crate, or it will not be collected. If you need a second crate for glass, you can buy one from a Council office or Resource Recovery Centre for $31.35. Because this is a busy time of year our contractor will have extra vehicles on the road and will be starting early.
Please remember to have your rubbish and recycling out by 7.00 am and please take care when passing our collection vehicles.
Cheyenne has obtained excellence endorsements for NCEA Level 1 and 2 with a clean excellence sweep hinging on her final results which get released in January.
She’s exemplary in painting, photography, and design, as per her artsy bloodline, and she has competed in many equestrian events throughout South Island.
Her love for horse-related sports has also roped an equine certificate and volunteer work at Riding for the Disabled Richmond.
Cheyenne has also flourished as the school’s head girl and its Board of Trustees student representative.
“Being able to help the school and learn about what goes on behind the closed doors, knowing the routines and systems, it allowed me a very good and new understanding of what goes on to run a school,” she says.
“I volunteer for our school’s yearly magazine The Rivers,
which consists of 170 to 180odd pages showing everything that’s happened to all the students throughout the year, from classrooms and curriculum activities to extra subjects and sports events.”
Cheyenne’s other laurels included a senior student citizenship award and overall academic excellence for Year 13. Blessed by her country upbringing and opportunities at Tapawera Area School, she is poised to ride off into the sunset. She will brush up on her creativity at the University of Canterbury from 2025 studying towards a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.
“It’s a career I believe I could do well with and enjoy, it’s also a way of expressing myself,” she says.
“[The university] has one of the oldest art schools in New Zealand, it has a great studio reputation, and it allows people to have their own individual studios once they hit their second year.”
Cheyenne Phyn “couldn’t be happier” to be awarded Tapawera Area School dux. Photo: Supplied.
Off like a skinny Hogget
DARREN CRAWFORD
FENZ Nelson/Marlborough
The Nelson-Marlborough summer season brings an increased risk of unwanted wildfires. All it takes is one spark and in the right conditions fire will be off like a skinny Hogget.
Spark generation and the potentially disastrous outcome of accidental ignition is of special concern to rural and farming communities, some of whom may have experienced first-hand the devastation caused by the monthlong Pigeon Valley wildfire four years ago. The Pigeon Valley fire destroyed 2,400 hectares of land and forest after farming equipment generated a spark. Events such as this are devastating to the communities that experience
them, which is why a community effort to reduce the risk of fires occurring is so important.
As the temperatures across the region are ramping up, BUIs (Build-up Index) are increasing - providing a timely reminder of the potential spark hazards that hot works and high fire risk activities pose during the dry season.
BUIs are the availability of dry vegetation and light fuels (such as grass, pine needles) which could supply a fire. Activities like welding, mowing, chain sawing, ploughing, or driving in dry, grassy or vegetated areas have the potential to generate sparks which could start a devastating wildfire.
Community members wanting to undertake heat or spark generating activities are encouraged
Jeff White, advisor risk reduction and specialist wildfire investigator
At this time of year, it is crucial for landowners who have conducted open-air burns to thoroughly recheck their ash piles and ensure they are completely extinguished. Hot ashes buried deep within an ash pile can remain dormant for several weeks, reigniting under favourable conditions such as high winds
and low humidity.
to first check NIWA’s fire weather information site at www.fireweather.niwa.co.nz and www. checkitsalright.nz before beginning, to help you make an informed decision about the suitability of the fire weather for their operation. Doing your research and determining the suitability of current fire conditions could be the difference between avoiding an incident or accidentally starting a wildfire.
Wildfires are unpredictable, so preparing your property for the potential is an important step. A great way to do this is managing the volatility of vegetation planted around your property by creating a ‘defensible space’. This increases the probability of your house surviving a wildfire. Removing highly flammable natives
A recent incident in Golden Bay highlights the importance of this vigilance. A fire quickly spread through more than two hectares of vegetation and came dangerously close to a hay barn. This fire originated from a modest burn pile the landowner had operated several days earlier. Although the initial burn was conducted under controlled and favourable conditions, the remnants of
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such as Kanuka and Manuka, in favour of low flammability species such as Papauma/Broadleaf or Karaka reduces the volatility of surrounding vegetation, providing little fuel for a wildfire. Planting low flammability plants away from the house can also cre-
the fire posed an ongoing risk.
Three days later, weather conditions deteriorated. Strong south-westerly winds gusted over 50 kmh, temperatures rose above 30°C, and relative humidity dropped to 19%—perfect conditions for an extreme wildfire. Hot ashes from the old burn pile reignited, and embers were rapidly carried to the surrounding vegetation. Thankfully, the swift response of the local fire brigade,
ate a ‘green break’ to reduce fire hazard to the property. The first 10 metres around a house should be free from debris and potential fuels that could ignite. The following 10-30 metres should contain well-maintained with grass kept short and plants pruned.
supported by three helicopters and heavy machinery, helped contain and control the fire, minimizing losses. Unfortunately, such fire incidents are all too common yet entirely preventable. It is critical not to assume that a burn site is safe once flames and smoke are no longer visible. Thoroughly soaking the area with water and conducting regular checks in the days following a burn are essential steps in preventing flare-ups.
MOTUEKA & MAPUA
...and I would run 26.2 miles
ELISE VOLLWEILER
Running a marathon wasn’t quite enough for Jared Khan.
The 11-year-old ticked off his own miles as part of the Kid’s Marathon programme, and just kept on running. He clocked up another 16-odd kilometres for some of his Motueka South School students who, for different reasons, could not complete the marathon distance on
their own.
Jared was humble about his part in getting his friends across the finish line.
“I just like running,” he says. Jared and his classmates met with Olympian and Kids Marathon founder Rod Dixon this month, where they ran their final metres together. Rod then placed a medal around each of their necks, before showing them the bronze medal that he
had won in the 1500 metres at the 1972 Munich Olympics. Kids Marathon is a running programme designed to inspire and encourage children to embrace health, fitness, and goal-setting through physical activity. Rod, who is also the 1983 New York City Marathon winner, created the programme as part of his lifelong commitment to promoting fitness among young people.
Zappekin opens its weird and wonderful doors for summer
ELISE VOLLWEILER
One of Motueka’s quirkiest art collectives has opened its pop-up gallery for summer perusal and purchasing.
Zappekin’s Nina an der Voorn says that the collective had an amazing opening on Sunday, 8 December, with people coming from as far as Blenheim and Golden Bay. Papier-mâché artist Kaschi even came dressed as a home-made fly costume. This year Zappekin’s 11 local artists have had working bees to renovate the space and are taking turns staffing the gallery right through the summer. Nina says almost all the money from sales goes to the artist, with a small amount going to the Zappekin community so they can continue.
The current artists are Studio Soph’, Kingdom of Klah, Mat Tait, KABIN Threads, DL Jewellery, SJC Creative, Drawn Strip, Kaschi, Flouncy Gardenwear, Super Hands, and Abby McCall. Between them they cover the disciplines of ce-
ramics, drawings, clothing, books, jewellery, sculpture, cosmetics, kitchenware, screenprints and feltwork, “and everything made within 50km of us,” Nina says. The gallery will be open from 10am to 4pm every single day except Christmas Day, until the end of February. It is located at 3 Wood Loop, just south of Motueka.
Motueka South School’s room seven ran their final Kid’s Marathon metres with Rod Dixon on Friday. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
Farewell Spit’s lighthouse
ROBYN PARKES
Phoenix, Louisa Campbell, Laura, Pilot, Star of the South, Rifleman, Meteor, Maid of Erin, William, Mary, City of Nelson, Deesse, Wallaby, Juno, and E U Cameron were boats and ships that either ran ashore, were completely beached or were wrecked on Farewell Spit between 1866 and 1870. With the Spit causing a good deal of trouble for vessels, a grievance was lodged in 1866 on the prolonged delay in the building of a lighthouse there. As each vessel grounded, there was a call that enough was enough, and it was imperative that a lighthouse be erected.
The Government obtained the services of Richard Aylmer to oversee the need for lighthouses in the colony, including one at the Spit. Aylmer felt there was nowhere on the Spit giving sufficient elevation where a lighthouse could be constructed and that the sandhills constantly moved. He felt the best option was to use a lightship, (a floating light) at the Spit end, where there was shelter for one to ride in safety and would be visible from the deck of a ship at a distance of about 12 miles.
James Balfour, marine engineer
of Nelson, felt that a lightship would be a mistake, less efficient and more costly.
Divided opinions, cost factors and the pros and cons of lightship vs lighthouse continued, however in October 1868, 600 acres of land was reserved at the extremity of Farewell Spit as the site for a lighthouse.
Tenders were invited in April 1869 for the erection of a timber lighthouse, with Samuel Brown successful with a tender of £2496, with work to be executed in 30 weeks’ time. Mr Hales, a provincial engineer, was appointed to oversee the building.
On the 19 May, Balfour and party landed at Collingwood and proceeded to the Spit to peg off the sites for the tower and other dwellings. The completed structure stood on a slight hillock of sand at Bush End Point and was about 118 feet in height from the level of the sea. The tower was a new design, some 100 feet in height and 40 feet in diameter at the base, the lantern adding about 15 feet more to its altitude. The main structure was hexagonal and was quite open and unboarded, up to 80 feet from the ground, the remainder planked and caulked to form lamp and oil rooms. The lantern was reached
by a staircase outside the framework and winding around it to the top of the tower in flights alternated by landings. The timber used was Hobart Town blue gum, cut to the requisite dimensions before arriving at the site. The building was fitted together on the level at the sandspit before raising. The painting was overseen by Mr, Louisson, the different storeys being coloured red and white alternately, for the purpose of making it visible in foggy weather. The lantern apparatus, made by Messrs Dove and Co of England, was put in by Mr. S. Wakeford.
At a short distance from the tower, dwellings and storerooms were built for two families. By 1891, the lighthouse needed to be replaced as the timber was in bad shape. The decision was made to build it of wrought iron. Messrs Anderson of Christchurch won the tender for the iron at a cost of £828.6sh. The new lighthouse was built 176ft eastward of the old one and was completed by November 1896, having taken three months to build. The existing light was reused, being elevated 97ft above sea level and allowing 15ft for the height of the observer’s eye was visible 15 nautical miles in clear weather.
A big thank you to all who have joined us in celebrating 55 years of fuelling Nelson.
Sharing these special events with you over the past five weeks has been amazing! We wish you a happy, safe, and relaxing holiday season. Thank you for your continued support — here’s to many more years together!
Farewell Spit Lighthouse. Photo: Nelson Provincial Museum, Tyree Studio Collection, 1888.
A sweet treat for precious grandparents
ELISE VOLLWEILER
The Woodlands Village craft group swapped their knitting needles for wooden spoons recently, to produce an array of baked goods for Motueka’s hard-working Grandparents Raising Grandchildren.
The 18 lovingly wrapped parcels of gingerbread, chocolate chippies and shortbread are the product of the craft group that regularly gathers at Woodlands Aged Care Facility.
GRG coordinator Rankeilor Arnott says the donations have made the group members feel very special. The craft group often does knitting for the wider community, delivering slippers to schools, blankets and knee rugs to other members of the care facility, and even creating woollen covers to provide a softer grip for walking frame handles.
49 years and counting – Riwaka Craft Market still going strong
SUPPLIED CONTENT
The clay has been molded, thrown and sculpted, the wheels have been whirring, and the kilns have been running red hot in anticipation of this year’s Riwaka Craft Market.
This is the 49th year of the craft market, which showcases some of the region’s best potters, artisans and food at the Riwaka Domain on Thursday, 2 January.
The market day is run by members of the Motueka Pottery Workshop and is the longest run-
ning craft market in the district. Workshop chair Lyn Shirley says the market has grown since its beginning in 1977 and this year will have more than 60 different stall holders.
“As well as some of the region’s best potters, we have a wide variety of craftspeople with everything from jewellery, candles, home and garden crafts, wood turning, and lots of tasty food. There are new stalls, as well as our popular regulars, and I am always amazed at the talent in this district,” she says.
This year has seen regular raku firings at the workshop, and some one-off raku pieces will be for sale. Raku is an ancient Japanese firing technique which creates unique ceramics with a variety of colours and textures.
The Motueka Pottery Workshop celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2024. Interest in pottery has been having a resurgence in recent years and there is a waiting list to join the workshop.
The Riwaka Craft Market is on at the Riwaka Domain on Thursday, 2 January, from 9am to 3pm.
“Getting Ritalin, it changed my life, before it I was absolutely exhausted after work.”
“Starting line dancing, it was something I didn’t know I would enjoy, but now I absolutely love it.”
“Having a newborn son [Luca] in January and bringing him up in quite a nice town.” What was your 2024 highlight?
“Going to Vietnam, it was my first time travelling overseas so I really enjoyed the culture, the food, and the music.”
Bianca Neighbours
Kurtis Judd
Hazel Marriott
Jack Curtis
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Motueka support group coordinator Rankeilor Arnott, fourth from right, says that the group members felt very happy and grateful to receive care parcels of baked goods from Woodlands Aged Care. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
The signs are out for the upcoming Riwaka Craft Market. Photo: Robyn Janes.
Motueka High Schools visiting students
Every year, Motueka High School hosts exchange students from around the world, who stay from a few weeks to a full year in Motueka. The Guardian will be running interviews from some of these students, to explore their reasons for coming to New Zealand, and the experiences they have had here.
Hey, my name is Anna Kahmann. I am 16 years old, and I live in Osnabrück in Germany, but go to a boarding school on the small Island Spiekeroog in Germany. I was here for five months.
What drew you to New Zealand?
My school in Germany currently has a sailing trip for my class for seven months. But I didn’t want to sail that long and decided to do something else. After a talk with my organisation, I decided to come to New Zealand. Because the unique nature is something you just have to experience.
What has been your favourite experience here?
There have been a lot of great experiences I’ve had in my time in New Zealand. But if I had to choose one thing, I think it would be my skydive, because it was amazing to see Motueka from the sky.
What is a food that you’ve learned to love in NZ, and what is a food that you’ve missed from back home?
In New Zealand I learned to love pies and Tim Tams; I will definitely miss them in Germany. From Germany I miss typical bread and buns, and schnitzel.
What is one of the biggest differences between Motueka and your home town?
I think people are totally different. In Germany everyone is always stressed and unfriendly, and here everyone is relaxed and considerate.
What is something that has differed from your expectations (for better or for worse)?
I thought five months would be longer. But it’s actually a good sign that time went by so quickly. I’ll miss Motueka and all the people I’ve met.
Tasman Better Off
It’s been two years since Tasman District Council received their Better Off Funding allocation from Central Government. The $5.64 million provided by the Department of Internal Affairs has helped implement 28 projects and initiatives around Tasman to benefit the wider community. Of the more visible outcomes to reach completion – Murchison now has a destination pump track since the Four Rivers Flow Zone officially opened in April.
Is there something else you’ve really missed from home, beyond friends and family?
I will miss our DM, that’s our retail store. It’s a lot better than the Chemist Warehouse.
What are you going to miss about life in New Zealand?
I think I’ll miss the friendliness of the people here and the sunny weather.
How have you changed, or what have you learned, since you’ve been here?
I think I’ve learned a lot of social skills. For example, approaching people who don’t speak your native language.
What’s one of the first things you’ll do when you return home?
I’ll be the first to get a pretzel from the bakery and hug my family and friends.
What will you be doing next year and beyond upon returning to your home country?
I’m going back to school as normal and enjoying time with my friends.
The Motupipi St footpath extension, landscaping at Te Noninga Kumu/Motueka Library and improvements to facilities at Moturoa/Rabbit Island have added to the way communities enjoy their outdoor time.
Just as important, but in more of a background capacity, the funding has also enabled business case, design, and feasibility aspects to be completed for community centres at Tapawera and Waimea South, and a Whai Oranga Wellbeing Centre for the region.
Enjoy your summer and stay safe around electricity
Whether you are planning a holiday, hosting guests at your home, or tackling some DIY projects, taking some simple precautions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable summer.
If you are expecting a full house when the family comes to visit, avoid running additional multi-plugs and extension cords, and plug any unused outlets with safety covers if small children are coming to stay.
If you must use extension cords, always use an RCD (Residual Current Device), inspect the cords regularly, and make sure the leads are rated for outdoor use if using them outside. It is important to keep electronics and electrical leads far away from sprinklers and pools. Water and electricity don’t mix, so be sure to keep them apart. It is also important to remember that extension cords should not be used for a long-term or permanent solution.
If you plan to refresh your outdoor area or garden, be mindful of overhead power lines when working with ladders or scaffolding to ensure they don’t come into contact. If you are digging or planting, take a moment to consider where underground power cables are located, and avoid planting large trees near overhead power lines.
Flying toys like drones and kites are a lot of fun. However, if they accidentally fly into a substation or power lines, it can cause an electrical explosion, fire, or electrocution. This may not only damage your aircraft but can cause a power cut to you, your neighbours, or the greater community.
If your flying toys, a ball or frisbee, become entangled in power lines or lands in one of our substations, please call 0800 508 100 for assistance. Our team is trained to enter these facilities safely and can help you retrieve any items.
Have fun and play safely this summer!
TASMAN’S EXCLUSION PESTS
dirty dozen Help us keep the dirty dozen at bay
Meet our list of exclusion pests – twelve flora and fauna not known to be present in the Tasman-Nelson region but are capable of causing havoc to our economic well-being, the natural environment, human health, recreational or cultural values. Therefore, we are doing what we can to keep them out – but we need your help! To keep these characters from sneaking in and setting up a permanent home here, please report any suspected sightings to Tasman District Council straight away on 03 543 8400.
Cape Tulip Looks good, but a toxic character
A tough specimen to control. Plants grow to 90cm and all parts of the plant are poisonous to humans and livestock.
Senegal Tea
A strange brew
A semi-aquatic perennial herb that can reach 1.5m high when flowering. It can rapidly spread in freshwater and form dense floating mats, smothering other aquatic species and reducing oxygen availability.
“El Capitan” Koi Carp
Growing to 75cm in length and weighing up to 10kg. They destroy aquatic habitat and muddy waterways.
Chilean Needle Grass No es bueno
An erect, tufted perennial tussock that can grow up to 1m in height. The needle-pointed seed attaches to sheep’s wool and can move through the pelt and muscle, downgrading wool and meat. It can also cause blindness in lambs.
An annual broadleaf weed that can grow 1m – 2.5m tall, competing for nutrients, space, and water with other arable crops.
An aggressive bird that feeds on insects, fruit and berries. Strongly territorial when nesting and reputed to destroy the eggs and nestlings of other birds in their feeding area.
Hornwort A growing danger from the depths
A vigorous, invasive, submerged aquatic perennial with stems up to 7m long. Considered to be one of the worst water weeds introduced into New Zealand.
Freddie and the Phragmites
A tall perennial grass producing annual cane-like stems up to 6m tall. It has thick underground roots (rhizomes) that form dense mats capable of blocking waterways.
Billy the Rook
A large black bird with a violet-blue glossy sheen. Large flocks cause serious damage to horticultural crops. An intermittent visitor from rookeries in the lower North Island and reported sightings in the past have generated a rapid response.
“The Almighty” Johnson Grass
Robust, aggressive, perennial, summer grass forming dense thickets that exclude most other plants. Mature plants vary in height from 50cm to 3m. One of the world’s 10 worst weeds and one of the five worst weeds in New Zealand.
Water Hyacinth
“The aquatic strangler”
One of the world’s most damaging aquatic weeds, this dark-rooted character can float on the water surface unattached forming dense mats that can completely smother large waterways and badly affect water quality.
This marsupial and his ilk browse on pasture and arable crops, reducing farm productivity. They also browse on a range of native species, depleting forest and scrub understory to affect regeneration.
For more information, scan the QR code or visit www.tasman.govt.nz/pests-and-weeds
Vinnie Velvetleaf
Mickey Mynah
Walter Wallaby
Available from 10am-1pm until 30 April 2023
Chicken burger & chips $12
Fish & chips $10
Hotdog & chips $7
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PROUD SUPPORTERS OF LOCAL SPORT
Healing journey spurs paddler to inspire others
STEPHEN STUART
Being encouraged to take to the water to help grieve his wife’s passing has led to Glenn Hardinge becoming one of Nelson’s most passionate and competitive waka ama padders.
The former rafting and kayak guide from Central Otago moved to Ruby Bay 10 years ago at his wife Marlene’s suggestion.
“She wanted a change after more than 30 years down there,” recalls Glenn, as he prepares for his daily early morning paddle off Tāhunanui.
Tragically, soon after their shift, Marlene was diagnosed with colon cancer and despite going into remission after six month’s treatment in Tokyo, she succumbed to the disease.
“It came back with a vengeance. She was gone within three weeks and I was grief stricken,” says Glenn. Then a dear friend, top waka ama paddler Kereama Payne, came by and urged him to get out on the water.
“I came under his wing, began paddling with a six-man team and used it as holistic healing for my grief out on the ocean. Later he came back again, dropped a single waka on my lawn and said bro you are going to paddle this every day,” remembers Glenn.
“I took Marlene’s ashes in the waka out to Ruby Bay, dropped them, and I return there every anniversary of her death.”
Eventually Glenn’s old competitive spirit resurfaced and he decided to jump in a single waka. “There were plenty of local out-
rigger canoe races and I was doing OK. I just loved it. I was always an individual. I am a bit of an introvert,” enthuses Glenn. He went on to win as a ruddered OCI Golden Master at national age grade level for his Maitahi Outrigger Canoe Club which is based in the Nelson Marina. Though to be honest, Tāhunanui is really his domain.
“I live nearby and can be in the water within minutes. I like to be here by 5.30am and have the clubbies ready to go by 6am or 6.30am before the beach gets too busy,” says Glenn, who describes himself as a volunteer - although he’s clearly more a trainer and motivator.
“I try to encourage everyone to get up early and embrace the day. I would love to see more young people take up the sport,”
declares the black belt, who used to run his own judo dojo club in Arrowtown.
“I had a few fights, but I preferred teaching the martial arts.”
The 62-year-old is still very competitive on the water though, confirms Motueka Waka Ama Club president, Callum Sebualala, as he heads out for a regular early morning paddle with Glenn.
“He’s inspiring. He’s a personal trainer and lives what he wants to do, training all the time. We are both Melanesian motivators,” exclaims Callum, who is Fijian-Irish.
Which takes us to Glenn’s surname. Hardinge isn’t a typo.
“My forefathers came here by boat from Torres Strait (off the top northern tip of Australia). They were Malaysian-Irish,”
explains Glenn, who went to NMIT and graduated with a sports science degree.
“Age is just a number. I don’t believe in growing old. Just keep going,” he vows.
The qualified waka steerer is gearing up to return to national and maybe international waters in Rarotonga and Brazil.
He will skip the sprint nationals at Lake Karapiro next month. There have also been approaches to jump back in a six-man waka. “I have had three offers already and I am ready for that now. I have come out the other end. They say there are nine processes of grief, and I think I have done them all. I am loving Nelson now,” concludes Glenn, before slinging his single waka on his shoulder and striding down the beach.the beach.
Rookie of the year – King of the Hill
Māpua engineering apprentice Brad Gale built himself a dirt bike and promptly claimed the King of the Hill title at the Mount Heslington Road venue in Brightwater. But it wasn’t an easy ride on his 2.7-metre-long and 1100 horsepower contraption.
“There wasn’t enough traction for my first run up the hill, so we did some welding work on the chain on the back wheel,” says Brad, who had some of his Motueka engineering work mates on-hand to support him. The changes worked but no sooner had the rangy 20-year-old powered across the finish line than his gearbox blew up. So the $1500 prize money came in handy.
Supporter
of the year –Kahurangi crew get local backing
When the Tasman Mako decided to rest its front-line players against Otago, and freshen them for “storm week”, Tasman Trophy Champions Kahurangi came to the rescue. The club provided six players including its captain Joshua Te Hira. It was too good of an opportunity to miss for his hard-core local supporters. So even though Tito Elisara is a Riwaka Club man, he volunteered to be the designated driver from Nelson to Dunedin.
“We left at 3am on Saturday and despite a stop in Christchurch to pick up a passenger, we made it with two hours to spare,” said Tito. Reserve hooker Joshua finally got on with 18 minutes to play and, while a brave Mako side eventually lost, Tito reckoned the trip was worth it. “What an awesome day out.”
Maitahi Outrigger Canoe Club racer Glenn Hardinge heading down Tāhunanui Beach to his happy place. Photo: Stephen Stuart.
Community Notices
MONDAY
MOTUEKA HIGHLAND PIPE BAND, Mon, 7pm. Band is located beside Motueka Recreation Centre. Promoting Scottish tradition and culture. Look forward to your participation. Info: Ph: 027284 8361.
MAPUA FRIENDSHIP CLUB. Indoor bowls, 1st & 3rd Mon. Mapua Bowling Club rooms. 2pm, Bring a plate of afternoon tea. Lots of laughs. Ph: Val 035403685.
MOTUEKA ELYSIUM Mon, 9.30am, Muses Café. For Widows and Widowers. Join us for coffee and chat, friendship, and support. Ph: Carol 035285027.
WOULD YOU LIKE A BIKE? Bike Hub Nelson accepts donations of good used bikes, fixes them up and gives them away for a small koha. 142 Saxton Rd. Mon, 5.30-7pm. For other opening times and a map e: bikehubnelson@gmail.com.
MOTUEKA BETTER BREATHERS Mon, 11.30am, Brass Band Hall, Old Wharf Rd. A 60-minute series of guided exercises done seated or standing, specifically designed to help those with breathing difficulties. Ph: Jess 0275467675.
TUESDAY
MOTUEKA BRASS, Tues Evenings. Discover your musical talent with us! Join our lively brass band for an unforgettable experience to join Ph: 021728168 or come along.
YOGA. If you have or have had cancer, we offer restorative yoga classes. Tues, 12.30pm. To Reg, Ph: 5287669.
MOCKINGBIRDS MUSIC GROUP, Tues, 2-3.30pm, Senior Net, Pah St. If you enjoy some fun singing/playing music, come along with your instrument, we’d love you to join us. Beginners welcome. Ph: Sue 02102416155.
HOPE TENNIS CLUB SOCIAL TENNIS, Every Tues, 9.30am, Hope Tennis Courts, Hope Domain. All abilities most welcome. Queries Ph: 0211729257.
WEDNESDAY
KNIT & NATTER Wed, 10-12pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Hub, 10 Pah St. Friendly group for all ages. Includes refreshments. All welcome.
AGE CONCERN TEA & TALK, Tea and talk will start up again Wed 8 Jan. Merry Christmas everyone.
RIWAKA BOWLING CLUB Fun for all the family - bowls and friendly guidance provided. Please wear flat soled shoes. 6pm –7.30pm Wednesdays till the end of daylight saving. $5.00 entry, School Rd Riwaka (next to Riwaka School).
MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL Office is open Wednesdays 11am to 3pm at Motueka Community House, Decks Reserve. Call in for arts info, funding assistance, and supporting art activities ideas for Motueka.
MOTUEKA SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLUB, Wed, 7.30pm, Lower Moutere Hall. Keep fit while having fun. All ages, no partner needed. First time free. Enq Ph: Fay 0210393559.
SHARLAND CYCLES 5K FUN RUN & WALK from Club Waimea. Wednesday evenings till 18th Dec. Registration 5.30pm. Race briefing 6pm. More info www.waimeaharriers.nz
DEATH CAFÉ, 2nd Wed of month, 10-11.30am. Revite Café, 256 High St. An open space for people to talk about death and dying. margaret@margaretmccallum.com
WALK 4 HEALTH, Wed, 9am, Motueka Community Garden. 3050 min walk at your own pace, for any age, any fitness and size. Ph:0273015598.
TOASTMASTERS MOTUEKA meet 1st & 3rd Wed of month, 6.45pm start, St John’s rooms, Jack Inglis Hosp, Courtney St. Gain speaking confidently, friendly environment. More Info Ph: Peter 0277468311.
THURSDAY
PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meet 1st Thurs of month, 1.30-3.30pm, Broadgreen House, 276 Nayland Rd. Ph: Bill 035448635 or 035391137.
MOTUEKA LIGHTHOUSE Meets last Thurs every month. Insightful presentations/workshops. 7pm-9pm, Motueka Community House, Decks Reserve. Donations appreciated. All welcome. angel3000.h@gmail.com or facebook Motueka Lighthouse.
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.
DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY
50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: office@topsouthmedia.co.nz
MEDITATION, Weekly meditation sessions open to all. Thurs, 12.15-12.45pm, Te Noninga Kumu - Motueka Library. During term time. No registration needed. Just come along. Info: Ph: Louise 0278789240.
HIGGINS HERITAGE PARK 222 Pigeon Valley Rd, Wakefield. Annual Steam-Up & Community Craft Fair Thu 2 Jan 9am-3pm. Come & enjoy a festive, fun day with craft stalls, food, fruits, ice creams, sausage sizzle, Nayland Primary School art, traction engine, jigger, honey barrell rides, face painting, balloons, music, Wakefield Fire Brigade & more. Contact 027 6316786.
NELSON BAYS HARMONY CHORUS, (women’s choir), is seeking new members to join our happy group. Thurs evenings, Club Waimea, Richmond. Ph: Carole 0274360910.
MOTUEKA 50+ WALKING GROUP Thurs. More info Ph: 0212640403 e: secretary50pluswalkers@gmail.com, or www. motueka50pluswalkers.org.nz.
RUMMIKUB Thurs, 1-4pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Club, 10 Pah St. Friendly group, includes refreshments. All welcome. Ph: Keith 0274516422.
THE DOCTORS MOTUEKA – Walking Group, Thurs, 9am, by the Janie Seddon Shipwreck carpark. Walking for 30 mins, suitable for all fitness levels. Make your daily walk more fun and meet new people. Ph: 035288358. NVC PRACTICE GROUP (NONVIOLENT / COMPASSIONATE COMMUNICATION), Every 2nd Thurs, 7-8.30pm, Motueka. In school term. For info e: margaret@margaretmccallum.com.
FRIDAY
MULTICULTURAL MOTUEKA welcomes migrants and refugees every Tues, 8.30-1pm, Fri, 8.30 -2pm, Community House, Decks Reserve. We provide connection and practical assistance for newcomers to our region as well as support for all cultural activities happening in our community. Ph 027 5286744 sez@multiculturalnt.co.nz.
nz. SATURDAY / SUNDAY
CJUSTICE OF THE PEACE Sat, 10-12pm, Motueka Library. Free services, including copy certification and witnessing signatures are available.
NELSON BRANCH OF ROYAL NZ AIRFORCE ASSOCIATION
Meet 2nd Sat each month, 12pm, Club Waimea, Richmond, Phil’s Restaurant. Interesting speakers, raffles and members interested in Aviation Ph: Trever Squires 039706644 or John Bethwaite 035476634. Cost of meal $25
HOUSIE: 1st and 4th Sat of month, 10 Pah St. Over 50s Social Hub. Ph: Jude 0273244226. All Welcome. Afternoon tea included. Cards $4. Raffles available.
GENERAL GROUPS
SUSTAINING TENANCIES Having trouble with your Tenancy? Need help working things through with your landlord or tenant? Gateway Housing Trust. Info E: housing@ght.co.nz or Ph: 035457100.
SURVIVORS AND THRIVERS GROUP, if you have or have had cancer, or supported someone else, come and connect. Ph: Maureen 5287669.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS. Is alcohol causing problems for your life? Want to stop drinking but can’t? we can help. Support meetings every day. Ph: 0800aaworks, 08002296757.
BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP, If you have or have had breast cancer, come along to this friendly atmosphere. 102 Hardy St, Nelson. Reg: 035391137 or E: info@cancernelson.org.nz.
GATEWAY TO YOUR WELLBEING, Wellbeing is important for all of us to thrive. The shed is a safe place to meet new people in a supportive and caring environment. We can connect you with other agencies for the right support needed. More info Ph: 0279214074, E: admin@ght.co.nz or pop in 24a Tudor St, Motueka.
GREYPOWER MOTUEKA welcomes visitors at the Community House office, Decks Reserve on Wallace St. for ongoing service requests. Discount provider list available. Ph: 035289076 or e: greypowermot@gmail.com.
MOTUEKA DISTRICT TOY LIBRARY, Tues, and Thurs, 9-11am, and Sat, 10-12pm, 44 Pah St. Annual membership $30. Hundreds of toys for all ages.
MOTUEKA RIDING FOR THE DISABLED We need more volunteers to help with therapeutic riding sessions. Tues, Wed, Thurs, 8.30-1pm. Ph: 0211151720 or e: info@motuekarda.nz.
MOTUEKA TENNIS CLUB. INC. Social Tennis, Tues & Thurs, 9.30am, Sun, 2pm. Courts behind the Memorial Hall Pah St. Racquets available to borrow for new Members. All welcome. NEED A LIFT? Mapua Willing Wheels Volunteer Drivers Service, affordable transport around Mapua, Motueka, Richmond, Nelson (no airport runs). 24 hrs’ notice req. To book Ph: 0226822373. mapuawheels@gmail.com.
MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL office at Community House, will be closed from 20 Dec to 17 Jan. Open Wed 22 Jan. Happy Holidays from Community Arts.
NELSON HOSPICE The Motueka shop needs volunteers! If you would like to volunteer for us, please enquire at the shop or Ph: 035281178.
NELSON RAILWAY SOCIETY Founders Park. Check our Facebook page and Website for updates of our Train and Railcar Timetable for the school holidays. We will be running on extra days. INDOOR BOWLS, Mon & Wed, 1.15-3pm, Motueka Over 50s Hub, 10 Pah St. All abilities welcome. Ph: Jude 0273244226.
MOTUEKA DISTRICT BRASS Do you want to be part of a fun, social and competitive band, who make players welcome? e: motueka.brass@gmail.com or Ph: 021728168
ENCOURAGEMENT GRANTS of up to $500 for groups & Individuals with an art project involving our local community. Contact: motuekaartscouncil@gmail.com
MOTUEKA NEWCOMERS New to Motueka? We’re a social group, mostly retired (50+) who meet regularly and welcome newcomers. More info Ph: Jana 035284355.
MOTUEKA MENZSHED, Tues, Wed or Thurs 9-12pm, MenzShed, Marchwood Park, College Rd. Give the missus some space, come to the menzshed. Just turn up or e: secretarymotmenzShed@ gmail.com.
MOTUEKA RED CROSS. Open Mon – Sat, 10-2pm, Community House. Donations of clothing, books, shoes, linen welcome.
MOTUEKA TRAMPING CLUB A diversity of weekend day walks and multi-day trips suitable for a range of fitness levels. Visit www.motuekatrampingclub.org to learn more about your local Club, or e: membership.motuekatc@gmail.com for info on joining.
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.
Weekly Puzzles and Sudoku
• Motueka Guardian office, Motueka
• Upper Moutere Store
• Mapua 4 Square
• Tasman Store
• Mrs. Smiths, Riwaka
• Tapawera 4 Square
• Fresh Choice, Takaka
• Takaka Library
• On The Spot, Collingwood
• Pohara Store
• Richmond Mall admin counter
• Bayleys Real Estate, Queen St
• On the Spot, Berryfields
• Connings
• Club Waimea, Richmond
• GreenWood Corner Store, Appleby
• Ewings Poultry Store, Hope
• Mapua 4 Square
• Upper Moutere store
• Tapawera 4 Square
• Brightwater 4 Square
• Wakefield 4 Square
• Hodgsons store, Murchison
• St Arnaud store
• Top South Media office Main Rd Stoke
• Top South Media office Main Rd Stoke Nelson Weekly
• Bayley’s Real Estate, Trafalgar St
• Woolworths, Paru Paru Road
• Fresh Choice, Nelson
• Nelson Library
• Milton St Dairy
• Atawhai Four Square
• Raglan Cafe, Tāhunanui
• Tāhunanui Library
• Tāhunanui Community Hub
• Stoke Bakery
• Top South Media office, Main Rd Stoke
• Richmond Library
• Richmond Mall admin counter
Email us at guardian.motueka @xtra.co.nz with your address and when you didn’t receive it and we will follow up for you.
115sqm. Corner site. High st frontage. Large window area for display. Available 1st December. Long term tenant preferred. Reasonable rates. Contact Rowan 03 5284640 rowan@tasman canvas.co.nz
refurbished offices,
room
