Doris from Bratwurst Grill was one of the stall holders in the Decks Reserve carpark on Sunday with the local market back in action. The iconic Motueka Sunday activity was forced into a lengthy break due to COVID-19, but with restrictions easing, it’s back every Sunday, regardless of the weather, from 8am – 1pm.
Jessica O’Connor and Dion Reynolds, both 23 and wellknown in our region have failed to return from the Kahurangi National Park.
The friends entered the Park near the Anatori River Carpark on Saturday, 9 May.
The Police search for the pair commenced on Tuesday, 19 May and since then efforts have only been ramped up.
Anyone who has been around the Anatori, Webb, Kokopu, Independent and Fraser rivers since 8 May and who may have seen the pair are asked to please contact Police on 105 and quote number PO42228949.
Five teams made up of Golden Bay, Motueka, Nelson LandSAR volun -
teers and Police staff searched the Anatori River area last Wednesday along with a specialist search dog from Blenheim.
On the night of Thursday, 21 May Police utilised a Royal New Zealand Air Force NH90 helicopter and crew in the search, while a land search continued supported by a drone with infrared capabilities.
That day’s search efforts located both footprints and a historic campsite near the Webb River, however they have been unable to confirm if either the footprints or the campsite belonged to the pair.
The NH90 helicopter with a crew of four and a medic on board were used to search inland from the Anatori River mouth. They searched
along river beds and used night vision goggles to look for light sources, such as fires or torches, which might be being used by the trampers.
On Friday, 22 May a fresh search dog was brought in to assist and there were 27 volunteers assisting with the search either in the field or at the forward base, with another eight joining on Saturday.
The infrared drone team and the NH90 helicopter continued to complement ground based searches, the clear weather helping the search teams’ progress, and the infrared drone continued to be used overnight to detect any signs of Jess and Dion.
Police were still working to confirm if either the footprints
or historic campsite belonged to the pair.
On Saturday a team from Alpine Cliff Rescue Mt Cook joined the team of volunteers, Police, NZDF, USAR and FENZ already in the field to assist with the search.
With bad weather forecast, weather conditions were being monitored closely and from Sunday up to 100ml of rain was expected in the area over the following 24-hour period.
An earlier aerial shoreline search from the Kahurangi Lighthouse north to Farewell Spit on Sunday did not locate anything of note.
Search efforts focussed on areas that are safe to operate in through the rain, and teams in more exposed areas were
pulled out for their safety.
With the weather having deteriorated the decision was made on Monday to suspend the search with unfavourable conditions overnight and during the day resulting in both air and land searches being deemed unsafe. With conditions improving the search will continue in the challenging terrain.
A Give-a-Little page has been set up to show appreciation for LandSAR and their incredible volunteers in their search for Jess and Dion. More than $20,000 has been donated via this link - https://givealittle. co.nz/fundraiser/ bring-home-jessoconnor-and-dionreynolds
A trio of locals kept themselves well occupied during lockdown by establishing a registered charity that will see the elderly members of our community and throughout New Zealand treated to concerts.
‘From Us with Aroha – Benefit Organ Concert Tour’ is aiming to reach as many aged and palliative care homes as possible with their bespoke self-contained truck, and a whole lot of tunes!
The tour launched at the Earnest Rutherford Retirement Village in Stoke to an appreciative crowd of a couple of hundred residents and care workers on Wednesday, 20 May.
“It was so lovely and amazing to have the wonderful music today. I enjoyed every minute. I couldn’t stop smiling,” said a resident.
“This is an amazing idea. If you can tour this concert of joy around all the care homes in New Zealand you will make a lot of people very happy,” says the Village manager, Cathy Hiku.
The brainchild of Sarah Waterman, Chris Hall and Mark Patterson the uniquely designed solo concert is contactless while enabling the audience to connect directly.
“It was my nana, a music teacher, who first taught me to play. Both my grandmothers were cared for in care homes in Nelson and Christchurch. My grandfather spent his last months at Rosewood. I want to do what I can to give back,” says operations manager and musician Mark.
The free concert is designed to bring joy, connection and aroha to residents and workers, while being completely contactless. Aiming to visit as many care homes as possible throughout June the concerts will feature modern and classical music.
“Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, our elder whanau have been particularly affected, and socially isolated from family, friends and the community. From Us with
Aroha – Benefit Organ Concert Tour aims to send a very big and important message to them – we are community, you are not alone,” says project manager Sarah.
A series of free concerts such as this requires huge logistics, effort and importantly funds. Due to the time pressure to get the project off the ground to start the tour by June and sending the messages when they are needed most and before mid-winter, the trio say they need to raise money fast.
“We are seeking supporters at many levels. No matter how big or small, everyone’s support is gratefully received, and your contribution will go towards the key messages we are sending New Zealanders,” says funding and community support lead Chris Hall.
Partnering with nationally registered charity, Age Concern, all excess funds will be donated to them to help assist the continuation of their much needed and appreciated work.
“Age Concern is so honoured and proud to be part of this tour of aroha, joy and generosity. Please make sure you show your support to our senior community and all their wonderful carers,” says Age Concern chief executive Stephanie Clare.
There are three main ways to assist with funding – sponsoring a specific item or aspect of the tour, becoming a major named sponsor, becoming an acknowledged donor to the project.
The project can offer acknowledgments through personal messages on the LED Wall of the truck, the concert programme, truck banners, project’s website and/or FaceBook thank yous and general media project promotion.
If you want to help and don’t know how or you know of other creative ways to help please reach out to Chris Hall on 0223 200 698 or chris@
Unable to operate due to COVID-19 restrictions the team at Abel Tasman Sea Shuttle were faced with unsold biscuits and juice that would usually be destined to replenish customer’s energy levels after an Abel Tasman Park excursion.
Rather than adding the goods to their own
pantries they instead opted to share it around the community.
“We thought actually we need to move these on, so I got hold of Claire Hutt who recommended Karen at New World as she organises Motueka New World’s food bank for The Salvation Army,” says Debbie Smith of Abel Tasman
Sea Shuttle. Three boxes of Farmbake biscuits were added to the foodbank’s items while the Samoan seasonal workers at Frasers Orchard nabbed a box and one of juice thanks to Debbie’s friendship with Carolyn Fraser.
Richard Horrell’s pack-house workers also benefitted from
Sea Shuttle’s generosity with a box heading that way too.
“It’s all gone to good causes which is great,” says Debbie. With levels dropping and restrictions easing the Sea Shuttle team are stoked to have resumed operating and encourage everyone to take a trip into the Park.
Operating seven days each week, they currently offer two daily departures from Kaiteriteri Beach. For bookings or further information please contact the team on 0800 732 748 or visit their website
https://abeltasmanseashuttles.co.nz/
We haven’t been up there for a long time, it’s time to revisit.”
The Motueka Arts Council’s art installation ‘Swinging on High’ has been delayed due to the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown, resulting in an extension of the deadline until June.
The Arts Council swung open its doors by inviting artists to join them for this exhibition designed to celebrate and showcase the incredible community that is Motueka and surrounds.
Each winter they organise various events, whether it’s mask making or painting classes, cultural dance and music performances, or art installations. This year they are asking YOU to participate. Your work of art could be displayed along Motueka’s High Street this winter, to lighten up and brighten up our streets.
The Arts Council say it doesn’t matter whether you consider yourself a fine artist, a folk artist, a dabbler or if you have two left thumbs, everyone, of any age, is invited and encouraged to contrib-
ute. Get together with friends, have a family art night, or make some quiet creation time for yourself.
Art helps with mental health and processing emotions, brings calm and clarity, and can just be pure fun say the group.
The idea is for members of the community to create and have displayed 3D works of art to be hung along the High Street that correspond with the theme “Lighting up Motueka”.
Some ideas include the use of mirrors, metal, LEDs, solar lights and glass.
People are asked to please remember as well that their art work will be hung above head height, and therefore viewed from the sides and below and to take that into consideration for their construction and design. There must also be a way to attach your artwork to a 3mm metal chain or shackle, which will be provided.
“It’s great as well if people want to get together to create art as a group, or get
inspired as they create their own piece,” say organisers.
All entries that fit the criteria (family-friendly, between 1 and 8kgs, and less than 500mm wide and 600mm high, with no advert
of logos) will be displayed throughout the winter months.
Collection of the entries will now take place on June 22 and 23, with the installation happening the following week.
Left and above: Projects underway for the Motueka Arts Council ‘Swinging Art on High Street’ installation.
For an information sheet with more details and a registration form, please contactMotuekaArtsCouncil@gmail. com
Hi All,
This week our attention has been on the search for missing trampers Jessica O’Connor and Dion Reynolds, which has been underway since Monday last week.
While Police are the lead agency in these events we could not provide an effective search and rescue service without the dedication of the LandSAR volunteers who work alongside us. Searching through rugged bush is hard and uncomfortable work that doesn’t come without risks. The one reward we are all seeking is the safe recovery of the missing people back to their friends and families.
In this search we have had assistance from the Airforce and have also been utilising our Police drones to get into difficult areas.
I would also like to acknowledge the employers of LandSAR volunteers, whose flexibility and generosity allows these people to provide this valuable community service.
Sadly, while this search was underway over the weekend some of the searchers were diverted to a fatality at Cape Farewell where a man’s body was recovered from down a steep cliff.
Meanwhile our other policing duties are continuing and I’m happy to have some good news to report and that is that we had very good feedback on the way bars and restaurants have been managing their obligations to operate safely under the Covid-19 restrictions. Many businesses are reporting being very encouraged to see their local communities coming out to support them as they ease back into trading.
Keep up the good work everyone. He waka eke noa (we’re all in this together)!
We are happy to announce BOOK A BOOK – a free service now available at Motueka, Richmond and Takaka Libraries.
Is it difficult to visit the library?
Are you over 70 or do you have existing medical conditions?
We can offer you BOOK A BOOK, a selection of up to five books and DVDs plus five magazines at a time.
You can click and collect your random or customised selection of adult, young adult or children’s items. Alternatively we can deliver to your home within three days if you are a Tasman resident.
Fill in the form - www.tasmanlibraries.govt.nz/my-library/forms/bookabook
Or call us at Richmond Library (03)543 8500, Motueka Library (03)528 1047 or Takaka Library (03)525 0059
Or email us at Library.Information@tasman.govt.nz
Paul Tasker accepts $25 cash from Hays Plumbing’s co-owner Kerry Hay as part of an initiative by the company to help boost our local hospitality industry.
As a way of showing their support to our local hospitality industry, Hays Plumbing, has given each of their 18 staff members $25 cash to spend freely among our bars, restaurants and cafes.
“We just thought it’d be a great gesture to help get people back out there and supporting cafes and bars as
they’ve been so badly hit by COVID,” says co-owner Byron Inglis. “It’s something we’d encourage other local businesses to do as well.
If business owners are in a position to do it, they should too. The COVID-19 pandemic has a huge impact on Motueka. This scary and uncertain time
has affected all of us. In these unforeseen circumstances positivity and community are vital.”
The unexpected cash has been welcomed by staff who say they’re looking forward to passing it on.
Residents are being urged to shop locally and it’s initiatives like this that are welcomed
by those in hospitality.
“It’s an incredible initiative. This is yet another local business showing the community spirit that is going to carry our region through this difficult time.
So many positive people with amazing ideas in this region,” says Toad Hall’s Angela Morris.
An operation was underway on Sunday, 24 May to recover a body at Cape Farewell. Police received a call on Saturday afternoon reporting personal items had been found on a clifftop track.
A drone was deployed to canvass the area, and located the body of a man some way down the cliff.
Police Search and Rescue along with an Alpine Cliff Rescue team worked to recover the body.
The man’s death is not connected to the search for missing trampers Dion Reynolds and Jessica O’Connor.
Golden Bay Fruit staff members spent a couple of afternoons last week handing out free apples to passing motorists. Based at their cool-store on the corner of High Street and Wharf Road - the company deemed an essential business -2 operated safely during lockdown and decided to show their appreciation for the community’s support by giving away apples.
The Tasman District Council is urging anyone planning an outdoor burn to check the conditions and best practice guidelines first, after a rush of smoky air complaints.
Council Environment and Planning Manager Dennis Bush-King says the Council’s Compliance team had received 81 complaints about air pollution due to outdoor burns in the Waimea Plains and Motueka areas over the past 20 days.
Dennis says the haze had been noticeable across the District, at a time when air quality generally over the lockdown had improved.
“There’s several elements contributing to the smoke pollution we’ve been experiencing recently. Horticulture burns are common at this time of year at the end of the season’s pick. But this year that has coincided with the lifting of the Civil Defence COVID-19 fire ban, an increase in property maintenance that people have been carrying out on lifestyle and rural properties throughout the lockdown, and a period of cold settled weather with little wind to disperse smoke.”
Dennis says the Council had issued four infringement fines, six abatement notices and a number of warnings to people with excessively
smoky outdoor fires.
“If you’re planning on carrying out a burn you need to follow good practice to ensure it doesn’t become a nuisance and create pollution. Use only dry wood and ensure a good air flow by stacking it loosely. If it’s a particularly cold, calm day it’s not a great time to burn because the smoke won’t rise and disperse.
“If you do have to burn, light your fire after 10am once the temperature has warmed up so the smoke can disperse, and have your fire out by 4pm before the temperature cools for the night. And take a look around before you light – if you can see a haze from other fires in the area don’t make it worse by starting another one.”
Dennis says there were other options such as stockpiling green waste to burn during more favourable conditions, mulching, or smaller piles could be disposed of at your local green waste transfer station.
More tips for good outdoor burning are available on the Council’s website, visit tasman.govt.nz/outdoor-burning.
Don’t forget to visit www.checkitsalright. nz to check if you need a FENZ fire permit to burn.
To make a smoke complaint, phone (03) 543 8400.
Kaiteriteri 3/26 Kotare Place
This extremely well presented apartment offers an opportunity to enter into the desirable Kaiteriteri real estate market at an affordable level. Purchase a quarter share of this fully furnished, well equipped apartment then just kick back and relax during your holiday break. This first floor apartment features three double bedrooms, two bathrooms and a very functional, well appointed kitchen and open plan living. Parking is not an issuethere's a secure single garage with handy storage cupboard and one additional allocated parking space. The use of the apartment is allocated with the other owners on a two-week rotational system. The Body Corp fees are also shared, currently assessed at $3,965.09 bi-annually. This extraordinary opportunity is one not to be overlooked. Make your appointment to view today. bayleys.co.nz/4051444
Motueka 44 Green Lane
Here is a lifestyle opportunity close to town. A leasehold proposition, the current annual lease is just over $9,000 including GST (rent review due 1 July 2023). 1.3ha of land including a small pear orchard and a water right for irrigation. Shed space is plentiful and the three bedroom character home is attractive and will provide a real project opportunity. Take advantage of the possible income capabilities - the home and shed space is currently rented out. bayleys.co.nz/4051454
3 2 1
For Sale offers invited over $225,000
View by appointment
Sandra Goodman 021 778 102 sandra.goodman@bayleys.co.nz
Jan Long 021 337 267 jan.long@bayleys.co.nz
VINING REALTY GROUP LTD, BAYLEYS,LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008
3 1 1 3
Asking Price $185,000
View 1-1.30pm Sat 30 May
or by appointment
Sandra Goodman 021 778 102 sandra.goodman@bayleys.co.nz
Jan Long 021 337 267 jan.long@bayleys.co.nz
VINING REALTY GROUP LTD, BAYLEYS,LICENSED REAA 2008
A slice of the good life describes this 15.99ha property with a delightful two bedroom cottage, facing north to take full advantage of the sun and views, with gardens and sweeping lawns in the foreground. A self-sufficient lifestyle is possible here, there is an abundance of fruit and nut trees, veggie plots, chicken houses and much more. You have land for horses or other stock and all of this is within five minutes from Wakefield village. bayleys.co.nz/4020424
2 1 1 2
For Sale offers invited over $985,000
View by appointment
Lydia Heyward 027 432 8532
lydia.heyward@bayleys.co.nz
VINING REALTY GROUP LTD, BAYLEYS,LICENSED REAA 2008
New Zealand’s largest youth fundraising event, the World Vision 40 Hour Famine, is back for its 45th year, with Tasman students set to take on a challenge or give something up – and it’s all in the name of supporting climate vulnerable communities in Malawi.
Spread across 40 hours from Friday 5 to Sunday 7 June, in all 90,000 New Zealand youth are expected to take part and raise much-needed funds for the people of Malawi who are experiencing the chaos caused by extreme weather events, like droughts, cyclones and floods, that are resulting in food shortages, hunger and malnutrition. On top of this, COVID19 has brought with it added pressure for these communities.
This year, five Kiwi Youth Ambassadors – Izaac Wilson, Jess McLennan, Alyssa Wilson, Daniel Rickman and Hayley Gotlieb – are championing the 40 Hour Famine, having travelled to Malawi in late 2019 to meet some of those who will benefit from the efforts of everyone taking part; children, families, schools and farmers who’ve been impacted by extreme weather events.
“I know that every single person who signs up for the 40 Hour Famine, and the money they raise, will help create real and actual change for the climate vulnerable Malawians who need it most,” says Jess.
World Vision New Zealand National Director Grant Bayldon says the 40 Hour Famine is a calendar item he looks forward to each year, adding that this year it seems all the more crucial for the charity organisation to provide a platform for NZ youth
to rally together and make change.
“As the world shifts, the challenges Malawians face remain – and this means now, more than ever, we need to do all we can to fight hunger and injustice.
“This is our chance to show the world what great global neighbours we can be. As we do what we can for the vulnerable here, let’s also do what we can for the most vulnerable around the world.”
Grant adds that he’s ‘really looking forward to seeing what challenges people take on, or what things they choose to give up for 40 hours, in order to make a life-changing difference for the people of Malawi’.
“The people of Malawi are facing a twin crisis: As they struggle with the impacts of climate change, they face the added pressures of COVID-19. They need our support more than ever.”
Money raised in the 2020 40 Hour Famine will make a difference by providing schools and farmers with seeds for crops, watering systems and goats so the people of Malawi can build resilient and sustainable farming and reduce the impact of climate change on their communities.
This important work will also ensure they’re able to better cope with external factors out of their control, be it extreme weather events or a new virulent virus.
Those who take part can choose their own challenge or select something to give up – like going without transport, furniture or technology – and ask people to support their efforts by donating.
Sign up today at famine.org.nz
Richmond 1/58a William Street
Solid Investment Project
Attention Home Buyers, Investors & First Home Buyers.
Take a closer look at this very sound, affordable do up opportunity located in a sought after area of Richmond with Henley School as your neighbour. This freehold cross lease beauty boasts 3 bedrooms on two levels, Huge internal entry garaging, 2 toilets and a view toward Tasman bay from the glassed in balcony.
For Sale
Offers over $489,000 View Open Home Saturday 1.00 pm www.harcourts.co.nz/MT3968
Graham Durrant
M 021 526 815 P 03 528 9551 graham.durrant@harcourts.co.nz
This secluded semi-rural property will delight a range of buyers, from those with a growing family to entrepreneurs seeking a 'work from home' option. Set on 1.1ha of fenced land the home comprises four bedrooms, two bathrooms, open-plan living, a laundry, rumpus room and office area. In the grounds are a variety of sheds, parking space, flat paddocks and fruit trees, along with a plentiful water supply. From self-sufficiency to tourism a lot is
For Sale
Offers Over $849,000 View by appointment www.harcourts.co.nz/MT3943
Leeon Johnston
M 021 460 294 P 03 528 9551 leeon.johnston@harcourts.co.nz
Orinoco 971 Thorpe-Orinoco Rd
A Dovedale Diamond
This delightful lifestyle property really shines! The home has double glazing and a log burner and comprises an open-plan kitchen diner, a separate lounge, two stylish bathrooms, a second lounge, four bedrooms, a garage and laundry. You'll love the 7282m2 of lush fertile paddocks, sheep yard, a boutique orchard and workshop, presenting you with an opportunity to be self-sufficient in a changing world. Located less than half an hour from Motueka, it's a gem.
For Sale
Offers Over $799,000 View by appointment www.harcourts.co.nz/MT3958
Leeon Johnston M 021 460 294 P 03 528 9551
leeon.johnston@harcourts.co.nz
Motueka 1573 Motueka Valley Highway
Yours Rurally
Warm, sunny and set upon 1136m2 of lush grounds with a selection of outbuildings, this tastefully revamped home offers three well-proportioned bedrooms, a sleepout, a chic bathroom, open-plan living and an ontrend kitchen. Located less than 20 minutes' drive from Motueka and close to Ngatimoti School, the property is a perfect choice for families whose new life plan includes growing fresh produce for their table and providing the children with space to play.
For Sale
Offers over $629,000 View by appointment www.harcourts.co.nz/MT3963
Leeon Johnston
M 021 460 294 P 03 528 9551 leeon.johnston@harcourts.co.nz Arrow
OneFortyOne New Zealand’s integrated business model and balanced approach to providing wood fibre products to domestic and export markets has proven its worth, says Executive General Manager – New Zealand, OneFortyOne, Lees Seymour.
“Not only has it been a cornerstone of the way we go about doing business for the past 70 years but it is proving to be important for our ability to respond to COVID-19 in the short term and for the future proofing of our business recovery post COVID-19,” says Lees.
The company began replanting 2000 hectares of hill country in the top of the South Island on 25 May 2020, signalling its ongoing confidence in the forestry industry, and its commitment to environmental stewardship while delivering high quality wood products to the domestic market.
Approximately
60 percent of OneFortyOne New Zealand’s log harvest is delivered to the domestic market.
In addition to owning and operating almost 80,000 hectares of plantation forestry in the Nelson Tasman and Marlborough regions, the company owns and operates Kaituna Sawmill in Marlborough.
OneFortyOne New Zealand’s timber customers are dominated by the domestic market (50 percent) followed by Australia, which represents 35 percent of Kaituna Sawmill’s customers.
Customers in South East Asia receive 15 percent of the Kaituna’s processed wood.
“What this means for our business is strong integration with the domestic economy and other New Zealand businesses that support this country’s recovery, resilience, and growth,” says Lees.
“It also means we have an existing clear line of sight and deep, functional relationships between those
who grow our trees, those who harvest them, those who mill them, and those who market our wood fibre products.”
However, Lees says that the export market has an important role to play in terms of spreading risk due to cyclical downturns in the domestic market.
“It diversifies customer opportunities, offers alternative markets for products that are not in demand from our domestic customers and provides a channel for salvage from fire or pests as well as securing ongoing job opportunities.”
The success of that balanced approach to domestic and export markets is evident in the longevity of the OneFortyOne New Zealand business and
its direct employment of almost 120 people in Nelson Tasman and Marlborough and the support of a contractor and supplier network of 300 people, says Lees.
Importantly, the business is founded on the principles of prioritising worker safety, environmental guardianship, and community engagement.
“As an example, we protect the more than 9000 hectares of indigenous vegetation reserves within the plantation, including wetlands, and other forest areas that provide habitat to New Zealand’s fauna and invest more than $200,000 in community projects every year. That’s important to us and to our community because busi-
Many houses built since the 1980s have underground power supplies. This means there may be an underground power cable (your service line) connecting your house to the network cables that run under the strip of land between your house and the road.
ness success is as much to do with the way a company goes about its business as it is about the results it achieves.”
Lees believes that as the wider forestry industry approaches challenges posed by COVID-19 it can look to the lessons businesses such as OneFortyOne New Zealand have learned over the years.
“There is a lot of experience and knowledge in our industry that can be constructively supported by work on domestic market development. Now is the time to get alongside one another, share our expertise, and work together to make the most of our industry as a key provider of economic recovery and growth.”
Buried cables can present a serious and potentially fatal hazard if you damage them. You should always check for buried cables before digging and before driving stakes, fence posts or warratahs into the ground on your property or in the strip of land between your property and the road.
Unsure where cables are located?
We can advise property owners whether there are buried service lines or network cables on or near your property. If there are cables near where you are planning to work, you should have a cable locate carried out. Network Tasman approved cable location services are available from these contractors:
z DELTA Utility Services Phone 03 543 8071
z Power Trace Phone 03 545 8300
We are here to help
Get in touch with us at info@networktasman.co.nz if you have to dig near where a cable has been found and we can discuss how to complete the job safely.
Phone Network Tasman faults immediately on 0800 508 100 if you accidentally hit an underground cable, even if there appears to be no damage.
For more safety tips visit our website and download a copy of our Keep Yourself Safe brochure www.networktasman.co.nz/ keep-yourself-safe
It’s important to realise that sexuality needs to be nurtured, and a healthy sex life has a positive e ect on people’s relationships. Until you have a conversation you may not even be aware of what you want.
Many of us know that Contractors have to look out for buried power cables when they are doing roadworks. But did you know that there might be power cables buried around your house as well.Your underground service line Property line Network cable
As I write this, New Zealand is a little over a week into COVID-19 Alert Level 2.
Going hard and going early has put us in a good position. The number of new cases of COVID-19 has reduced significantly, and any recent new cases have been directly traced to existing cases. The last case of unknown source was in early April, and we haven’t seen any new clusters for more than a month.
This gives us confidence there is no community transmission in New Zealand.
But our journey is far from over. COVID19 is still present in New Zealand, and it’s certainly still present around the world. For as long as that remains the case, there’ll be risks for us to manage, and work for us to do.
Just last week, the Budget highlighted the Government’s commitment to job creation, keeping people in work, supporting key sectors such as tourism to get back on their feet, and getting our economy moving.
Ultimately, the best thing we can do for our region and the econ-
omy is to stay on top of the virus, and continue to carefully ease restrictions where we can.
At every alert level we’ll maintain our basic wall of defence against the virus. That means tight border controls, widespread surveillance testing, and rapid contact tracing. It also means good hand hygiene, physical distancing, and staying home if we feel sick. That’s our new normal.
Getting out and about over the weekend, it was great to see New Zealanders making the most of our new hard-earned freedoms. Cafés were back up and running and you could see people adjusting to rules around physical distancing and contact tracing and so on.
The Government intends to keep phasing in additional activ-
ity at Level 2, when the evidence says it’s safe. Bars, for example, have just reopened as well, and measures like size limits on gatherings will be reviewed every two weeks.
We don’t have to shift a full level to wind down restrictions. This nimble approach, making incremental adjustments, will allow us to get New Zealand moving faster, to limit the economic impact of the virus.
As the Prime Minister has said before though, the descent can be more dangerous than the climb. Some countries that started to ease restrictions experienced a spike in cases. The same could happen here if we’re not careful. We know from our clusters that one case can become 90 after a single night out. No one wants that.
For a safer descent, many businesses are adopting innovative solutions like mobile apps to keep track of who has visited their stores. To support these measures, the Government has launched a new app to help you keep a record of where you’ve been. It’s called NZ COVID Tracer, and it’ll help public health units identify, trace and isolate cases and close contacts to prevent further spread of COVID-19.
You’re invited to create a secure digital diary of the places you visit by scanning QR codes displayed out front of businesses and other public places.
Registering your contact details through the app too means public health units can get in touch if need be.
You can download it from here: tracing. covid19.govt.nz.
The more of us who download and use the app, the better we can respond to any new case that might spring up in our community.
It makes that basic wall of defence against the virus, our new normal, even stronger. 1568
Although we have remained open during the COVID-19 lockdown period, understandably we have seen a reduction in the number of patients coming in or accessing our care as we all focused on staying home and keeping safe.
This has perhaps resulted in some of you ‘sitting’ on a health concern, waiting for restrictions to ease, and the country to enter Level 2.
Now that we’re in Level 2, we are anticipating GPs and Nurses will be in increasing demand.
If you have been ‘sitting’ with a health concern, delaying routine care, have a chronic health condition that needs input or have a new concern that you wish to discuss with a clinician then please do not hesi-
tate to contact us.
Although nationally New Zealand has done a truly commendable job in reducing case numbers of COVID-19, the possibility of resurgence remains and we all have a responsibility to reduce the risk of further spread of the virus.
When you do call for an appointment our reception team will ask a few additional questions that will help us determine the best course of action for your appointment.
This may include asking;
If a phone or virtual consultation in place of a face to face would suit your healthcare need.
Whether you have any ‘red flag’ symptoms related to potential COVID-19
When you visit our practice there may be a few changes to your usual experience.
Such as;
Being asked to wait in the car rather than
the waiting room.
Seeing your regular GP in a room that is different from the one you may be used to.
Being asked to wear a mask into the consultation.
Having your clinician wear a mask or full protective equipment.
We ask you to use hand sanitiser and practice social distancing
Please be reassured that your health and safety are our main concern and any questions we ask or actions we ask you to take relate to the purpose of keeping everyone safe from the virus. Thank you everyone for your excellent work to help stamp this virus out and your commitment to doing so into the future.
Kind regards Greenwood Health
Bevan Congdon was born in Motueka in February 1938. He was a New Zealand cricket all-rounder who played 61 Test matches and 11 One Day Internationals from 1965 to 1978, including a spell as captain.
He was captain of the New Zealand Test and ODI team from 1972 to 1974, and was the first New Zealand captain to record a victory over Australia. Congdon was principally a batsman but also became a useful medium-pace bowler midway through his career.
His finest moments in Tests were in England in 1973 when he scored 176 at Trent Bridge and 175 at Lord’s in successive Tests, and during the determined foray by the Kiwis to the West Indies in 1972, when he took over the captaincy from Graham Dowling. In the Trent Bridge test match, New Zealand chased 479 in the final innings, falling short by only 38 runs. At the time, this was a record for a highest score in the fourth innings to lose a match. The innings at Lord’s contributed to New Zealand making 551, their highest score in Tests at the time. Asked afterwards how he prepared for Test cricket in his remote, intemperate South Island hometown, he replied that net pitches in Motueka prepared one for anything.
In 1975, Congdon became the first New Zealand batsman to score an ODI century at the Basin Reserve, the second one was scored by Kane Williamson, 43 years later, on 6 January 2018 vs. Pakistan.
In the 1975 New Year Honours, Congdon was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire, for services to cricket.
He played 61 Tests, scoring 3,448 runs at an average of 32.22 (seven centuries), and 11 ODIs – including captaining New Zealand in its first official limited-overs fixture, against Pakistan at Lancaster Park in 1973.
Derek Bolt is an actor, teacher and a quiz master champion. He migrated to New Zealand in his thirties from the UK and now resides in Motueka with his lovely wife Fay.
In 1985 he won the prestigious title of New Zealand Mastermind. Mastermind, for our younger readers was the ultimate quiz show. Contestants faced two minute rounds on general knowledge and an array of mind-boggling questions on their chosen topic. Derek’s topic was ‘The Works of George Orwell,’ one of the most fascinating authors of last century.
Derek proudly states ‘we’ won it, as his wife Fay did nearly as much work as he did. “She read all Orwell’s books and then prepared three by five cards where she’d write out questions for me. Some were worse than the ones I actually got.”
Previous to his win Derek had been both a teacher and an actor, but afterwards his life changed. He joined a New Zealand team for Australia’s special series of Sale of the Century involving Australia, New Zealand, the U.K. and Canada – the Commonwealth Challenge. The following year it was called the World Challenge when the U.S.A. joined in.
Derek was also the adjudicator and question writer for the Sale of the Century N.Z. for four and a half years. “I estimate I wrote 40,000 questions in that time.”
The local version of The Weakest Link followed. And then ‘New Zealand Brainiest Kid’ and the ‘New Zealand Olympic Challenge’. Great connections that lead him into work with Channel 7 in Australia. These days Derek and Fay are living happily in Motueka.
Motueka local Joeline Jones is a local track legend, a mum and an early childhood teacher
As a youngster Joeline asked her parents to join athletics and she wanted to win every race she entered.
More than 30 years later and Joeline is still at the track and trying beat her teenage teammates.
Joeline’s competitiveness has seen her shoot through the sprinting ranks in just a few years and landed her a fourth consecutive nomination for Masters Sportsperson of the year at the 2019 Nelson Sports awards.
As a teenager, Joeline showed plenty of promise as a sprinter at high school but thanks to being a “typical teenager,” her interest soon waned.
Then, four years ago, a friend noticed her speed during a touch game and suggested Joeline attend the Masters Games in Nelson.
It was here she ran into renowned sprinting coach Dennis Kale, whom she had met while at Nayland College. “He said if I wanted to return, he would train me, so here I am.”
Upon her comeback to the track, Joeline has shown that she has lost little pace, breaking a number of New Zealand and South Island records on the way.
She races in every distance from 60m to 400m. Joeline has twice broken the national 60m fastest time. She ran at the Oceania Championships in Queensland where she won the 400m and placed third in the 60, 100 and 200m. And this amazing lady also attended the World Championships in 2018 in Spain.
As if that wasn’t intense enough, she is also a member of the Tasman women’s masters touch team.
Anthony Oakley, owner of Chokdee and Wendy Smith, manager of Tasman Bay Promotions located at Motueka Isite, are not just local business people but they are sky diving legends and record breakers.
A keen skydiver since 19 Anthony, has been part of numerous world record formations though the years in the POPS (Parachutes Over Phorty Society) category, including a world team mark of 400 at Thailand in 2006. In 2017 flew to Chicago to take part in breaking another record, this time it was with 110 other skydivers. This special jump was made from 19000 feet (5791 metres) with the aim to complete a “three-point, 111 way formation. This meant all 111 skydivers had to meet in mid-air, before binding in two other formations on the same jump. The team had about 70 seconds to complete the task and have their parachutes open by 2500ft (762m).
After over 40 years of skydiving, Anthony still loves jumping out of planes. He has many strings to his bow, including being a crucial part of our local Land Search and Rescue team.
Wendy is a local star who has set numerous records including the record for the highest skydive in New Zealand at 25,000 feet. This amazing woman holds 10 World Record titles and 2 European Record titles and is the first Everest Skydive participant. She holds the World’s Highest Landing onto Kala Patther, Mount Everest. In 2011 Wendy was awarded the Global Angels International Ambassador of the year.
Wendy is also a Specialist Aerial Cinematographer and loves not only filming but also performing skydiving stunts. She has been an international skydiving competitor since 1989, and is a multi-medal holder skydiving disciplines. Wendy and Anthony are two amazing individuals and we are proud they are part of our town.
How did New Zealand’s national sport come to be first played in Nelson?
Well, the then speaker of the House of Representatives, Sir David Monro, decided in 1867 to send his son Charles, age 16 to England for a possible career in the army. Charles wasn’t very keen on the idea so instead he attended Christ College at Finchley, near London. The school played football according to rugby school rules and young Charles played for one of the teams.
Two years later, Sir David accepted his son would not have a military career and Charles arrived back home to Nelson in January 1870. He joined the Nelson Football Club, which at the time played sort of a mixture of soccer and Aussie rules. Monro talked the club into trying rugby’s handling code. He then talked to the headmaster of Nelson College the Reverend Frank Simmons, who just happened to be an ex-pupil of Rugby School. Munro agreed that Nelson College would adopt the game.
The first official game of football using ‘rugby’ rules was played in New Zealand 150 years ago. The anniversary of this game passed a couple of weeks ago with little fanfare due to lock down. The match was held at the Botanic sports field in Nelson on 14 May 1870. This author thinks May 14 should be a national holiday.
A match was organised for Saturday 14 May, between the Nelson Football Club and Nelson College with each team consisting of 18 players. In front of 200 curious spectators, Monro was part of the Nelson Club team which won 2-0. Later in the season, he organised a game against a Wellington team at Petone, which was New Zealand’s first ever inter-provincial match. Note – Charles Munro who died in 1933 also played in New Zealand’s first ever polo match in 1871.
The new game of Rugby caught on fast and quickly spread around New Zealand. In fact, the first ever “New Zealand” team appeared as early as 1884. It took time to spread to this region because of travel problems. The first clubs in Motueka and Golden Bay appear to have formed in 1889. Although the booklet on the Riwaka Club’s history suggests 1884. Other sources from the time indicate it was formed in 1889, although ‘scratch’ matches took place earlier.
Rugby in Murchison started in 1895. At this time most of the travel in our region was done by boat. In fact, the first Riwaka team to ravel to Takaka in 1889 saw the master of the vessel fined for carrying 16 passengers when licensed to carry only four!
Clubs all over the district started to appear, some lasting longer than others. When the Golden Bay – Motueka Union formed in 1920 (one hundred years ago this year), clubs were split into two sub-unions because of the travel factor.
Golden Bay and Motueka sub-unions, while the Murchison sub-union joined after the 1929 Murchison earthquake.
Clubs that have been and gone From Golden Bay:
• East Takaka
• Aorere
• Golden Bay
• Tarakohe
• Golden Bay Old Boys
• Ramblers
• United
• Onekaka
• Rival
• Pirates
• Old Boys
• Cobb Hydro
• Waitui
From Motueka:
• KiaOra
• Wanderers
• Tikaokao
• Whakarewa
• Terriers
• Tasman
• United
• Dovedale
• Upper Moutere
• Motueka
• Soliders
• Combined
• Tai Tamariki
• Hui-Moutere
From Murchison:
• Maruia/Maruia Sth
• Braeburn
• Glenhope
• Pikomanu
• Lake Rotoiti
• Rotoroa
• Owen/United
• Golddiggers
• Longford
Nelson Rugby Football Club team, 1873. Nelson Provincial Museum Collection
Rugby as we know it has changed a lot over the years, some say for the better, others maybe not. But the game will always be a part of who we are as New Zealanders.
In our region it’s up to the clubs like Valley Stages, Murchison, Tapawera, Rangers, Motueka United, Huia Riwaka, Takaka and Collingwood to continue Rugby’s legacy for the next 150 years.
Another outstanding field of over 90 players competed in the “Restart Stableford” which was held to replace the “Centennial Ambrose” which was cancelled due to Covid.
There was an extensive prize list which featured a number of beautiful wooden bowls which were made from Blackwood from the golf course. The competition was played in two grades mixed and men’s. The mixed teams certainly out played the men! The mixed grade was won by Caroline and Peter Fitzgerald and Geraldine and Peter Taylor with an outstanding score of 131.
2nd; Sharon and Chris McGeown, Sue Park and Diane Strong on 125.
3rd; Shona and Peter Johnson, Jacquie Martin and Ralph Meikle 123
4th; Derryn and Bernie Hedges, Penny Vincent and Peter Tudberry on 119
5th; Graham Shaw, Peter Neal, Liz Hall and Roger Hall on 116
The Men’s grade was won by David Cairns, Ian Buchanan, John Frater and Keith Dowie on 119
2nd; Heath Sherrock, James Emery, David Clarke and James Lillington on 117
3rd; Barry Riordan, Andrew Fenemor, Andy Chew and Mike Hay on 114
4th; Allan Barbara, Bob Valle, Bryan McKay and Kevin Armstrong on 110 5th; Bill Agnew, Murray Hamilton, Tony Louis and Lloyd Goodall on 109
When the country went into lockdown, local orchardist, Kono, had 22 bins of apples, kiwifruit and pears sitting in their cool-store they were unable to shift due to restrictions placed on businesses. Rather than let it go to waste they opted instead to donate it to
the government’s iwi response.
The Department of Conservation’s top of the south Treaty Settlement ranger, Aroha Gilling, helped set up the government’s support for iwi in collaboration with police and corrections during the response,
Clockwise from top left: DOC biodiversity ranger Fay McKenzie. DOC biodiversity ranger Josh Preston in the midst of delivering apples. DOC biodiversity ranger Rhan Hurst assists with the food parcels.
utilising Kono’s picked fruit by dispersing it throughout food parcels, destined for those in need across the top of the south. Project Janszoon members stepped in to assist with the transporting, taking the donated fruit across the region.
“It was a great
chance for the government departments to support the eight iwi of the Top of the South in their collaborative regional response to Covid-19. We’re part of the community too and helping people get kai in this challenging time was a positive thing to do.”
This white weka was spotted in the Abel Tasman National Park last week by Project Janszoon and Department of Conservation ranger Fay McKenzie, while checking traps.
The weka’s white colouring is caused by leucism, a condition similar to albinism, where animals lack pigmentation.
Fay spotted this rare weka in the Wainui Valley not far from the Wainui Hut.
Community Notices are free to charitable trusts, gold coin entry where any monies gained go back into a community project. Notices for businesses and organisations who charge for courses or events cost $12.50+gst. No AGMs, sports notices or church notices.
DEADLINE: 12 NOON MONDAY. 30 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY guardian.motueka@xtra.co.nz
We regret if your community notice ad has not made this week’s column, it is due to the popularity of this column and inclusion cannot be guaranteed for free ads.
CANCER SOCIETY All local support groups and programmes are postponed due to Covid-19. Please contact us for more information phone (03) 539 1137 info@cancernelson.org.nz
antiques
Gold and silver - top prices paid!
We’ll come to you!
» Quality used sets of golf clubs
» Gold and silver
» China - Royal Doulton, Shelley, Moorcroft, Clarice Cliff, Carlton Ware, Royal Worcester, Crown Lynn and other makes of early New Zealand pottery, Beswick, Lladro, Royal Albert and other quality makes of china.
» Collections of vintage toys including Fun Ho, Matchbox, Dinky, Corgi and any other related items
» Early glass, Lalique, Etling, Murano and other quality items
» Quality items of crystal, particularly Waterford Crystal
» Swarovski Crystal
» Collectables - Military medals and related military items, fountain pens, old signage, AA badges, cameras, scientific equipment, sewing items, sporting items including badges, medals and programs, early crocks and bottles, postcards, early tin toys, teddy bears and dolls, all tools, shipping items and nautical items
» Maori artifacts » Jewellery » Early books
» Ivory and Jade » Coin Collections and bank notes
Call Sarah on 021 0247 4025 Email
MOTUEKA GRG SUPPORT GROUP Welcomes Grandparents/Kin raising/supporting grandchildren. 2nd & 4th Tuesday every month 1-3pm St Andrew’s Lounge 64 High Street. Join us for a confidential, relaxed & supportive time with others. Phone 0211337299.
NELSON RAILWAY At Founders Park. Email nelsonrailway@gmail.com or follow us on Facebook.
DRUMMOND, Ian Lawrence
On May 20, 2020, at Nelson Hospital, aged 84 years. Dearly loved father of Kim, Mark, Shane, and Todd. Loved grandfather of his 5 grandchildren, and long time friend of Sue. Messages may be addressed to The Family of Ian Drummond, c/- PO Box 7103, Nelson 7042, or online at nelson. simplicity.co.nz/hugsfrom-home
death notices
Following Ian’s wishes a private family gathering has been held.
antiques
$$$ for your antique furniture, paintings, china, clocks and jewellery. Plus quality restoration & reproduction service. Call at Mariri Gallery, Coastal Highway, Mariri, or telephone 027 448 4430 (weekdays 9am - 4pm).
carpet cleaning
TASMAN Carpet Cleaning - Great service, eco-friendly, great value, for a free quote ring Greg 0274 300 626.
death notices
GUNN
Donald Rowlands (25.06.1952 - 18.05.2020)
chimney sweep CHIMN EY S WEEP Marahau-MotuekaTasman-Moutere and surrounding areas. Free quote or query. Phone Steve 021-081-01146.
late of Motueka, passed away peacefully at Jack Inglis Friendship Hospital. Loved brother of Hugh and Carol, brother in law to Louise and the late Ian, and youngest child of the late Hugh and Gwen Gunn, Warepa. Dearly missed by his nieces Nicole, Catherine and Lucy, by his many cousins, by Bruce, Sharon, Phil, Jim, Diane, Norman and Linda, by his many friends & workmates, and by the children of the Mpora Rural Family Orphanage, Fort Portal, Uganda. The family extends its thanks to the many medical, nursing, and health care staff that treated Donald. Messages to hgunn@bigpond.com or to 28A Greenwood Street, Motueka 7120. In accordance with Donald’s wishes a private cremation has taken place. Memorial service details to be advised.
Golden Bay Funeral Directors www.gbmfs.co.nz
death notices
WILSON, Alex
public notice
JIM BUTLER Memorial service is now postponed and will be held at a later date.
Passed away peacefully at Waterlea Resthome Blenheim 25 May 2020 aged 88yrs. Dearly loved husband of Rae. Loved father & father in law of Yvonne & Les Sidwell (Blenheim) Trevor (deceased) John (deceased). Loved grandfather & great grandfather. Messages to 36a Graham St Blenheim .
Garage sales are free for up to 16 words and must be either emailed or brought into the office. Phone calls not accepted. Businesses will incur normal charges.
garage sale
Rec Centre, Old Wharf Road motueka.statecinemas.co.nz
firewood
QUAL I TY DR Y FIREWOOD AVAILABLE
Delivered per trailer load (3m3). Free delivery in Motueka. PHONE 021 228 5025
firewood
entertainment memorial
FIREWOOD Off Cuts - $30 per Scoop, Slab Wood - $48 per Scoop, Pine Wood - $50 per Scoop, Kindling - $8 per Box. Stonescape Garden Supplies, 99 King Edward Street, 03 528 6344. Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Saturday 9-12pm.
QUIET, responsible and reliable female looking for one bedroom flat in Motueka. Excellent references provided. Phone Anna 027 908 3916.
BOYC E ST 30th May. Moving house. Painters scaffolding etc. Furniture, Household, Miscellaneous. Signs out 9am.
23 CEDARMAN DRIVE
Little Kaiteriteri. Saturday 30th May 8.30-11am. Power tools, pressure washer, tile cutter etc, numerous hand tools and handyman items, extractor fans (2 new). Golf clubs, general household & bric a brac.
43 SCHOOL RD Lower Moutere. From 9am Sat. All sorts of quality items. Viewings by App. 0291228044
THORP S T REE T between Greenwood & Tudor. Sign out 9 am. Kitchen, bedding, household, pictures etc.
6 WAKATU PLACE Sat 30th May. 8am start. Household items, Car accessories. Large jack, Axle stands, Retro Kelvinator fridge in working order, plus more.
garden sleepers
GARDEN SLEEPERS
200 x 100 x 2.1m
Hardwood Sleepers. 10 pack $320. Delivery available. PHONE 021 228 5025
public notices
situations vacant
property for sale
public notices
property to let EXCELLENT RETAIL SHOP in Arcade at 265 High St. $118pw tel 5278261.
services
MATT’S MAINTENANCE
storage
HANDYMAN Storage.
Motueka's newest most secure storage unit. Security cameras. Insurance approved. 26 Huffam St, Motueka. Ph 0274 344 254. Courtesy trailer available.
STORAGE Systems
Motueka. Secure self storage available from $6 a week. Ph 528 4060.
TASMAN Storage units available from $5.90pw. Clean, dry, secure units. Insurance approved. 24/7 access. Ph 528 0071.
stump grinding
STUMP Grinding, tree felling. Stumps ground to mulch for ready gardening. Ph: Andrew 021 081 82 123, AH (03) 553 0633.
to rent
TO LET Tasman Village. 1 bedroom self contained cottage. Suit working person or retiree. $275.00 p.w power inclusive. Ph 03 5266178.
trades
TASMA N BL ASTING SERVICES See website for details: www. tasmansodablasting. co.nz or office@tasmansodablasting.co.nz Ph. 0225288159
wanted to buy
CASH PAID FOR OLD WRISTWATCHES SCRAP GOLD & SILVER OLD COINS & JEWELLERY VINTAGE / QUALITY TOOLS, MILITARY & FIREARMS ITEMS GENERAL ANTIQUES ALSO BUYING ESTATE & SHED ITEMS COLLECTION & DOWNSIZING
PH TIM GLADSTONE T&B VINTAGE 0800653935 OR 5485235
The single best source for the latest information on COVID-19 and the current Alert Level restrictions is the all of government website – covid19.govt.nz
Please keep doing the right thing at Alert Level Two: COVID-19 is still out there. Play it safe.
Keep your distance from other people in public.
• If you’re sick, stay home. Don’t go to work or school. Don’t socialise.
• If you have symptoms of cold or u call your doctor or Healthline and get tested.
• Wash your hands. Wash your hands. Wash your hands. Sneeze and cough into your elbow, regularly disinfect surfaces.
Keep track of where you’ve been and who you’ve seen.
Starting from 1 July we’ll only be collecting plastics that can be recycled in New Zealand – these are the ones labelled with 1, 2, and 5.
These three plastics are the most common, representing around 85 – 90% of the plastics we use. Most of the containers that you use will still be recycled: soft drink and water bottles, clear plastic meat trays, plastic milk bottles, bathroom, kitchen, and laundry products, and ice-cream, butter and takeaway containers.
The plastics that we will not be collecting from 1 July are plastics 3, 4, 6 and 7. These plastics are used in some food and product packaging like single serve yoghurt pottles and most sour cream containers. These cannot be recycled in New Zealand and are very di cult to nd an overseas market for. There is also concern that some of these plastics may not be recycled appropriately.
So please start thinking about the plastics that you buy now, reduce plastic where you can, starting checking the number and aim to buy only 1, 2 and 5 ahead for the changeover date on 1 July.
All Council o ces, libraries and facilities (recreation centres, playgrounds, swimming pools, skate parks, reserves) have re-opened. However, due to the Alert Level Two restrictions there are some limitations.
Contact tracing and physical distancing measures are in place at all venues. Be aware that not all library programmes are happening at the moment and there have been changes to opening hours.
This may change if the government alters the current restrictions so you can keep in touch with the latest information by visiting our website, tasman.govt.nz, our Facebook Page or giving us a call on 03 548 3400.
Work to replace Mission Bridge (near Davey Road, Upper Moutere) is now underway and will continue until July. The project was due to start in March but was delayed due to COVID-19 restrictions.
The Moutere Highway will be closed at the bridge and a detour is in place via either Gardner Valley Road or Harley Road to the Coastal Highway. For more details, including the detour map, visit tasman.govt.nz, search phrase ‘Mission Bridge’.
Do you have an exciting community project in the pipeline? A Community Grant could help to make it happen. Applications for our Tasman District Council Community Grants are now open until 31 July 2020. Funding is available for Tasman-based projects that meet a community need and have community support. Grants are available for projects that t into the following categories:
• Community and economic development initiatives
Arts/culture/heritage/museums
Festivals and events
• Youth and children
Social services
Environment
• Emergency services
• Sports and recreation facilities.
To apply and get more information, visit tasman.govt.nz/link/grants.
We’ve had lots of complaints recently about smoke from outdoor burning. If you don’t have another option and must burn outdoors, please follow these steps to reduce the impact on your neighbours and the rest of the community.
• Check the weather conditions, wind speed and direction and continue to check throughout the burn. Wind speeds of 10 – 25km/h are best.
• Burn well-seasoned, dry vegetation only. Stack vegetation and untreated wood loosely.
If you know of someone who you think deserves recognition for all their hard work, you can nominate them for an Outstanding Community Service Award. Tasman District Council wants your help to identify and celebrate the wonderful people throughout our District by making nominations for this annual award ceremony.
Tasman District Council’s Outstanding Community Service Awards recognise the unsung heroes who add so much to our communities. The awards are aimed at acknowledging those who have volunteered for 20 years or more. It’s a way to make sure they are rewarded with the thanks they deserve for their long-term commitment, generosity, dedication and outstanding service. Nominees must be residents of the Tasman District to qualify.
More information and nomination forms are available on the Council website, tasman.govt.nz and search “community awards.” You can email your completed nomination form to gabrielle.drummond@tasman.govt.nz. Nominations must be received by 30 June 2020.
Tasman District Council invites young people (aged 12 – 24) to submit their photographs for a contest dedicated to the Matariki Celebration. Entries are invited until 28 June. The star cluster Matariki appears in our skies in the month of Pipiri (June–July), marking the start of the Māori New Year. There are two photo categories to choose from – general Matariki or local heroes (tuahangata/tuawahine). There are $100 Prezzy Card prizes to be won in each category as well as some spot prizes too. Find out more at tasmanyouthhub.co.nz.
All meetings are being held via Zoom video conferencing. See the meeting calendar on the website for the access links.
Full Council
Thursday 28 May, 9.00 am.
Community Grants Subcommittee
Tuesday 2 June, 9.30 am. No public forum
Kingsland Forest Plan – Deliberations
Tuesday 2 June, 1.30 pm. No public forum
Audit and Risk Committee
Wednesday 3 June, 1.30 pm. Public forum
Golden Bay Community Board
The COVID-19 lockdown has shown that lower levels of air pollution, more people using active transport, greater social cohesion and less people dying on our roads are all achievable goals. The lockdown has also challenged the idea that streets are designed for vehicles. Streets have been transformed into hubs of interaction, recreation, art and play. As we have walked, ridden and accessed spaces normally reserved for cars, should we now review how we plan these areas in future? Please visit the website tasman.govt.nz, search on “streets for people” and complete a short survey to tell us how the lockdown has changed your perception of streets and how you want them to look when the COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. Feedback is invited until 31 May 2020.
• In winter only burn between 10.00 am and 4.00 pm.
• Do not leave a re to smoulder overnight. Get the re burning hot as quickly as possible and keep it hot throughout the burn.
Only burn outdoors when you really must. Check out the updated good practice guide for outdoor burning on our website, and please check if you need a re permit at checkitsalright.nz.
Tuesday, 9 June 2020, 9.30 am. Golden Bay Service Centre, Commercial Street, Takaka. Please note: this meeting will take place at the Service Centre but the public forum will be via Zoom video conferencing in order to meet physical distancing requirements.
New Zealand was a hive of activity in the early hours of Saturday as thousands of hunters headed out before dawn to start the 2020 game bird hunting season.
The three-week delay to the season because of the Covid-19 lockdown had failed to dampen the hunters’ enthusiasm, and Fish & Game Rangers across the country reported many happy hunters.
Local duck shooter, Wylie Williams was shooting on the Motueka River and says the weekend’s shoot was “really good”.
“There were lots of ducks around, I got eight ducks each day and other people did really well too,” says Wylie.
Hunters reported that the lead up to the delayed 2020 season start had been exciting, with the best numbers of birds seen frequenting their ponds in many years. Unfortunately, in regions affected by drought hunting birds was made harder by the lack of water.
Reports from around the country on Saturday have reinforced this sentiment with large numbers of ducks seen moving around.
The Government’s decision to delay the start of the game bird season till after New Zealand moved into Alert Level 2 has enabled the cultural fabric of what is opening day to be maintained. Hunters have been positive in their feedback with how Fish & Game NZ has handled the Covid-19 crisis and enabled them to have a game bird season.
“This weekend is an important chance for thousands of New Zealand families to harvest some organic free-range kai for the table. In these economic times being able to provide good wholesome wild food for your family may take the pressure off some families in the months ahead,” says Fish & Game NZ Chief Executive Martin Taylor.
“New Zealand has many places for hunters to gather game birds, and many regions benefit from “Duck Tourism”. Game bird seasons vary in length across the country so don’t be afraid to travel to a different region to increase your hunting opportunities and support the regional economy.”
Opening morning produced mixed bags on the West Coast, a foggy start made for challenging grey and mallard shooting but those who did their scouting still typically found good success. A lot of visiting hunters made use of West Coast’s abundant paradise shelduck population with bag limits being reached. Especially those hunting over recently harvested maize, who had a fantastic morning with no shortage of Parries. Hunters checked were relatively happy with their success and were pleased with the numbers of other hunters out. Some experienced hunters reported it was one of the noisiest opening mornings in recent years and as a result there were plenty of circulating birds around the valleys. Only one hunter found to be hunting without a licence, all other hunters were fully compliant and were pleased to see a Ranger.
Wylie Williams’ dog Cocoa has a great time retrieving ducks over the weekend.