Nelson Weekly - 28 December 2022

Locally Owned and Operated

28 December 2022

Splash into 2023

Nelson Ferry: ‘we can’t afford to lose it’

TRACY ALLAN

Haulashore Island, the lighthouse, and the boulder bank may become less accessible for many if the ferry that provides transport to the iconic Nelson locations is sold to buyers up north.

The owner of WAKA-TO-N-FRO Nelson Ferry is now looking out-

side of the region to sell up after getting no interest in the business which has been up for sale for over two years.

Bruce Robertson said he has reached out to local iwi, and the council but he still hasn’t found someone to buy the business locally.

With a couple of leads in the

North Island for the boat alone, Bruce says he is not desperate, but he would like the business to be sold to someone in the region.

“I’d probably say it would be a bit sad for Nelson if it goes,” he says on the eve of his 70th birthday.

Bruce has owned the business for 15 years, but is ready to move on and live a more relaxed lifestyle.

The Nelson Ferry operates on a flexible schedule and although the business is weather-dependent Bruce says it’s a great job because it’s not 40 hours per week. “Covid-19 didn’t hurt the business, if anything it is getting busier.”

Bruce has spotted all sorts of wonderful creatures in the har-

bour including dolphins and blue penguins and he has enjoyed watching the bird colony at the cut grow to now almost 200-300 chicks.

He says the service has been utilised by school groups, girl guides, and Nelson City Council.

Harper, Jackson, Cory and Kayden Trusler play in the water at Tāhunanui Beach. Tāhunanui will be a hive of activity this summer with events including the Lions Summer Fair and Beach Break featuring Shapeshifter and Kora. Photo: Lisa Trusler.

Sara Hollyman sara@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Kate Russell kate@nelsonweekly.co.nz

Jack Malcolm jack@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Lauren Rameka-iti lauren@nelsonweekly.co.nz

Reuben Dudley reuben@nelsonweekly.co.nz

Nelson Ferry: ‘we can’t afford to lose it’

FROM PAGE 1

It has been booked for Christmas parties and teambuilding events. Wedding parties also use the ferry to take their photos at the lighthouse and he loves taking groups of families with visitors from overseas.

Bruce works with Cawthron and the Department of Conservation who can book the ferry for months at a time to transport staff who are undertaking weed control along the boulder bank.

President of Nelson West Rotary, Charles Lambert, says the ferry is vital to the fundraising efforts of their annual Boulder Bank Walk fundraiser.

“We really do rely on it very heavily to transport people

back at the end of their walk and Bruce helps us with cleaning up rubbish from the walk as well.

“It’s a pretty significant part of the fundraiser, we can’t afford to lose I don’t think.”

The Original Ferry operated for more than 15 years and could take a maximum of 10 adults including Skipper. The construction of the current ferry began in August 2010, and was launched in early December the same year. The vessel was built to be able to land on the rocky shoreline around the Nelson Haven and has a capacity of up to 30 adults.

“Every trip is a memorable moment for passengers when they don’t know what to expect. It makes for a pleasant job,” Bruce says.

Belinda Clark

Coki Verri

“Winning the gold award for the annual icecream competition and booking flights with my husband to go home to Argentina to see my family.”

Kane Dixon

“I taught my sons who are eight and nine to ride a clutch motorbike and now they are weapons.”

What has been the highlight of your year?

Matt Thule

“Seeing my boys in New Zealand.”

Michelle Ashby

“My daughter turning 21 in October.”

Bruce Robertson with a visiting Swami. Photo: Supplied.

Only half of residents happy with council

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

Only half of Nelsonians were satisfied with Nelson City Council’s performance for the 2021/2022 financial year, according to the council’s residents’ survey.

While just 51 per cent of residents were satisfied or very satisfied with council, this is an increase of eight per cent from the 43 per cent satisfaction rate recorded for the 2020/2021 year.

“Everything I have works properly and I have no complaints,” said one surveyed resident. “I can’t give it a five because that implies that they’re perfect, but nobody is perfect.”

21 per cent of people were dissatisfied to some degree while 26 per cent of people were neutral. 2 per cent didn’t know.

The report says the increase in satisfied residents is “likely driven by a decrease in respondents who are complaining about the roads.”

The survey sampled 407 Nelson residents who were representative of the city’s demographic breakdown for gender, age, ethnicity and location, with a confidence level of 95

per cent.

“This survey has done a much better job than previous ones in actually being representative of [Nelson’s] demographics,” acknowledged Deputy Mayor Rohan O’Neill-Stevens.

perception that council does what it wants without listening to the public, spends inappropriately, makes questionable decisions, and is not very communicative.

“I think we are in a good place to live,” another resident said. “But there are some initiatives of [council’s] that I don’t agree with.”

Concerns about the natural environment and built transport facilities, such as roads and footpaths, also influenced residents’ dissatisfaction.

Mayor Nick Smith says he found the survey to be helpful as a newcomer to the council chamber.

“The test for us is now to use these residents’ survey results so that we can focus on those points.”

Residents survey respondent

Those who were satisfied with council had general sentiments about council doing a good job alongside having high satisfaction towards council’s facilities, services, and communication.

But accountability and communication were the leading reasons for residents’ dissatisfaction with many reporting a

In the new year, Nick wants to establish a stand at the Nelson Market with councillors, to provide people with an alternative method to have their say to council. Residents satisfied with council reached a high of 63 per cent in 2020.

Everything I have works properly and I have no complaints. I can’t give it a five because that implies that they’re perfect, but nobody is perfect.

Putting local breweries on the map

KATE RUSSELL

An updated version of the Nelson Craft Beer Trail map has been released just in time for the summer holidays.

With over 20 craft beer destinations stretching from Nelson City to Onekaka in Golden Bay, the map is the perfect way to discover the region’s breweries. The map has taken on different forms over the last decade, and it has most recently been published by Vanessa Downing who has given it a total makeover.

“It’s just a great thing for people to do. It’s helping our local businesses and it’s one of the most popular brochures. Everyone was keen to get involved when I approached them.”

The Craft Beer Trail was set up as a way to connect visitors to the region with local craft breweries - but it is just as popular with locals.

Vanessa says, with Nelson’s rich history in hop-growing and

brewing, it’s only fitting that a guide such as this exists.

“Hops were first grown in Nelson in 1842 and by the 1850s local breweries had established large hop gardens.

“For many years Nelson continued to be the only place where hops were grown in New Zealand.

“A natural progression from this is a flourishing craft-brewing industry that Nelson has become famous for.”

As well as breweries, there are also outlets and other attractions on the map.

Vanessa says she has seen an increasing demand for the map, and, with 20,000 copies printed, expects it to be a hit.

“It is the ideal activity for visiting friends and family this summer,” she says.

You can pick up a copy of the map at local bars, restaurants, accommodation providers and Nelson Airport, or you can access the map online at www. craftbrewingcapital.co.nz

Wet, but still warm year

JENNY NICHOLSON

If you think 2022 has been a wet year, you are right according to monthly rainfall figures for the region.

Although 2021 was significantly wetter than average, 2022 has been wetter still, particularly since midyear.

However, the Tasman District Council roof gauge recorded six months as drier than average between 1 January 2022 to 30 November.

Three months had considerably more rainfall than normal which resulted in 1,249 mm of rainfall by 8 December compared to the yearly average of 971 mm.

February and July were wet months, but August was wetter still with 261.9 mm of rainfall.

Nelson rain gauges showed it was wetter in Nelson and particularly at Wakapuaka, where 610 mm fell in August.

NIWA’s national climate summary for August says it was notable for rainfall and flooding and called the extreme rainfall to places including Nelson and Tasman as the most impactful event for August.

It says the Maitai River bursting its banks was a result of a 1-in120-year rain event.

On 17 August the Maitai River’s flow reached a maximum

While 2022 has seen a lot of grey skies and rain, the greater Nelson region is still tracking as the third sunniest place in New Zealand. Photo: Jenny Nicholson.

of 459 cubic metres per second (cumecs), nearly double its previous record flow of 237 cumecs in December 2011.

While the rains were the talk of the town, temperatures across the country were the 2nd warmest on record for August. Despite the grey skies in the middle of the month, by the end of August the greater Nelson region remained the third sunniest in New Zealand.

Prior to 2021, Nelson, Tasman, and Blenheim had a period of jostling for first place, but in 2021 the title of New Zealand’s sunshine capital headed north to Whakatane, with Richmond taking out second place.

This year, sunshine hours between regions haven’t been so close, and from February to April, NIWA’s figures show the greater Nelson region fell out of the top four for sunshine hours, with West Coast and Wellington recording more sunshine than our region.

By May, Nelson was back in the top three sunshine areas.

Taranaki has been out in front all year and by the end of November had 2388 sunshine hours, followed by Bay of Plenty at 2335 and wider Nelson at 2325 hours.

New Zealand temperatures in November for 2022 are the warmest on record, beating out

2021’s previous record.

The top three warmest Novembers on record have all occurred since 2019 with average weather warmer than 1981 to 2010 by an average of 1.8 degrees Celsius.

Temperatures recorded at the Nelson Airport reached ‘higher highs’ than average from December 2021 to March 2022, before falling to lower than average for three months.

From August to October there were ‘lower lows’ than average, while other months didn’t get as cold as usual.

October was the driest month for the year in both Nelson and Tasman.

Lions Summer Fair returns after two-year absence

The Lions Summer Fair is all set to resume at the Tāhunanui Playing Fields on Sunday, 1 January, 2023 after a two year absence due to Covid restrictions.

Over 50 stalls are expected to be on site offering craft items, health care products and food.

Organisers say there will also be activities for children and offerings for those of all ages.

Richmond Lions president Bob Jamieson says that the profits from this years’ fair will be donated to local emergency service groups.

It is one of two major fundraising projects Richmond Lions are organising over the holiday period.

The other is the “Camp Raffle” at the Tāhunanui Beach Camp on 28th December, where Lions members will raffle three baskets of food and supplies to campers and residents of the camp.

The profit from the camp raffle will be donated to the local surf life-saving club, whose members will be on hand to help sell the tickets.

Vanessa Downing has created an updated version of the Nelson Craft Beer Trail map. Photo: Kate Russell.

Council’s chief executive reflects on three decades of local government

SARA HOLLYMAN

Nelson’s chief executive has walked out of Civic House for the last time.

After more than three decades working for Nelson City Council, Pat Dougherty made the decision not to apply for the next five-year contract leading the city’s council.

His final day, on December 16, saw him reflect on more than 30 years working different roles in local government.

Pat says there have been many challenges, changes and things to be proud of during his time at council.

“One of the things I’ve always liked about local government is that you get up each day, come to work and your job is to make life better for the community in one form or another. I think that’s a really cool thing to do. The community doesn’t always agree, but that’s what I’ve liked about it.”

He says the biggest changes have been the transformation of Trafalgar St and the general growth of Nelson.

“When I arrived, there were just over 30,000 people now

Pat Dougherty

there’s 55,000, the Nelson Tasman region has gone ahead.”

He says Covid-19 was the biggest challenge.

“But it’s also the thing I’m probably most proud of - how the staff responded to it.”

The city’s response to the August floods is another standout moment for Pat.

“For a team that was 10 per cent down in numbers to pick up that work and achieve what they did is just stunning. The contractors, consultants the whole community just rallied.

It was the city responding and it’s something that made me very proud.

“We can’t control what nature brings us but the response was

just amazing, it really was.

Pat says one of his first jobs when he started with NCC in the 80s was to get the Maitai Dam commissioned and supplying water to Nelson.

“When I first arrived, I was the drainage and water engineer and over the next 14 or 15 years I rose up steadily through the ranks until eventually I was manager of technical services.

“I was sitting in my office thinking ‘I took up engineering because I like to get outside and I like to build things, but I haven’t been outside for months and I haven’t actually built anything myself in a long time, I overview projects but I’m not hands on anymore’, that’s when I thought I might like to be a chief executive.”

Pat says he is not yet retiring but will move into the private sector as a consulting partner with Wellington-based firm Tregaskis Brown. He will remain working from his home in Nelson, commuting to the capital as needed. He says he’s looking forward to having his weekends back and being able to leave his phone at home.

Overseas tourists leave huge health debt

PAULA HULBURT

Overseas patients who disappear without paying for emergency care have racked up hundreds of thousands of dollars of debt.

Nelson Marlborough Health is owed $211,000 by tourists visiting from abroad who have left the country without settling their bills.

Figures from the financial year 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022 show overseas patients paid $471,000 in costs after being treated in either Nelson or Wairau Hospital.

But more than $200,000 remains unpaid and health bosses are urging travellers to the region to ensure they have travel insurance that includes health.

A Ministry of Health spokeswoman says patients from overseas who need critical care will be treated.

“In practice, in situations where a person needs critical, emergency treatment at a public hospital, but is ineligible for publicly funded health care, in most cases, the patient will be triaged as to how critical their care needs is.

“If necessary, treatment will be provided first and payment sorted out later. This reflects the professional ethics of providers to provide care.”

At Te Whatu Ora - Health New Zealand, Nelson Marlborough, insurance companies will only be billed if they have accepted liability and guaranteed payment.

The estimated cost must be paid in advance and any additional costs paid in full at the end of treatment.

It costs approximately $5500 a day for a patient in intensive care.

While there are some exceptions, such as compulsory mental health care, to overseas tourists having to pay, most are personally liable for their medical bills.

New Zealand has reciprocal health agreements with Australia and Britain but neither provides full coverage.

The Ministry of Health spokeswoman says it falls to staff at individual hospitals to check if a patient is eligible.

“Checking the eligibility of patients is the responsibility of all health providers who administer government-funded care. People can expect to be asked to prove their eligibility, especially if the provider is seeing them for the first time. The government strongly recommends you get comprehensive travel insurance with health cover if you are not eligible for subsidised healthcare.”

Photos of the year

Mary Willett’s Clouston Tce garden was destroyed by the Maitai River during the August floods.

Terry Wilkins sprays woodchip in the veterans chopping at the Nelson A&P Show.

Enner Glynn School student Aidan Brown was cheered on by his classmates during their ‘wheels day for Aidan’.

Colour Run comes to Nelson Intermediate Founders Heritage Park lights up for Illuminate Light and Sound event.

Dog’s Day Out at Nayland Pool 30 March Yaza Cafe went up for sale this year for the first time since it opened 24 years ago.

The Nelson Karenni community hold a sign showing their native alphabet which many only learnt the week before.

Bella was the most popular dog name in Nelson for 2022, but there was only one Winfield Red..

Nelson Intermediate School raised funds for Gumboot Friday in November.

Dog control aren’t the bad guys

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

Animal control officers aren’t the bad guys, says Daniel de Ruyter, they’re just trying to keep everyone safe.

Before taking on his current role in animal control, Daniel’s past jobs were in factories, horticulture, and on farms, and very hands-on, so he saw an opportunity to continue that sort of practical work at Invercargill City Council.

“Being a dog owner, I saw the animal control job come up and went for it,” he says. “It’s worked out brilliantly.”

Daniel’s worked in animal con-

trol now for about seven years, the past two in Nelson.

He says the job can be very rewarding when you change the practices of animal owners.

“When you talk to people, and you get your point across, and they realise, yes, that is the right way of doing things, and then they start doing things right.”

Daniel says that due to the nature of animal complaints, he has to deal with two opposing viewpoints while trying to enact the proper enforcement of rules.

“If you can get to that, it’s definitely a good wee boost for you.”

Day-to-day, Daniel and his colleagues deal with several types of incidents, everything from bark-

ing or wandering dogs to attacks, which include dogs rushing. But it’s not only dogs, animal control also deals with wandering stock.

“Every day is different, you never know what’s actually going to come in,” he says. “One day you could be doing nothing, the next you’re just not stopping for lunch.”

Animal control officers aren’t the bad guys, Daniel says.

“There is actually a Dog Control Act that gives us our warranted powers.”

That law helps animal control officers enforce their main priorities: public safety and dog welfare.

And even the pound isn’t

grim like they often are portrayed.

“It is concreted,” Daniel admits, but this is to deal with contamination with dogs that may be unvaccinated or carrying diseases which could then put puppies at risk.

“We need to be able to do that disease control in there, so the concrete side of things is an easy cleaning surface.”

He adds that there are heated floors and blankets for the dogs, along with areas to run around in.

As we come into summer, the greatest thing dog owners can do

to give Daniel and his colleagues a break is to know where they can and can’t have their dogs offleash.

“Most of the issues when it comes to rushings or attacks are people having them unleashed in a leashed area,” he says. “Just because your dog might be friendly, doesn’t mean the one it’s rushing up to on a leash may be.”

“If you can’t recall your dog, it shouldn’t be off-leash.”

Classic bikes on display

JUDENE EDGAR

Motorbikes from all over the world will be on display in Richmond as part of the Nelson Classic and Vintage Motorcycle Club’s annual show.

First held in a paddock in Appleby in 1991 as a way of “showing people in the community what we do, what we own, and what we ride”, it’s now a firm favourite on the summer events calendar says club captain Mark Roden.

Established more than 40 years ago, Mark says that the club was created for people with an interest in motorcycles (over 25 years of age) to enjoy the camaraderie and excitement of owning a classic or vintage bike. In addition to the annual show held on the first weekend in January, they also had regular club rides.

He says that the show is a “simple and fun” opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to showcase their bikes to the

community. From the lovingly restored to those in original condition.

“All of us are passionate about motorcycles and love the opportunity to show them off.”

As the show is a display of club members bikes, Mark says that as new ones are acquired there is always something new interesting to see.

There will be the well-known brands on display like Triumph and BSA plus some rarer

machines from Japan, Europe and the USA.

“There will be a few veteran bikes around 100 years old, plus a lot of bikes from the 60s and 70s, and some modern bikes with electric starters too.”

The 2023 Classic Bike Show is on Saturday 7 January 9am – 5pm and Sunday 8 January from 9am – 4pm at the Badminton Hall, Jubilee Park, Richmond. Entry is $5 for adults and free for kids.

Animal control officer Daniel de Ruyter helps to keep dogs, like his mastiff rottweiler cross Taco, safe.

Photo: Max Frethey.

Mark Roden will have his two Velocette motorcycles on display at the classic bike show. Photo: Sara Hollyman.

Enjoy

flying toys this summer but stay away from power lines

Drones, model aircrafts and kites make great Christmas presents, but if you aren’t familiar with the rules of flying there is potential for things to go very wrong.

Quinney’s Ark resurrected in time for summer

JO KENT

We want everyone to enjoy their unmanned aircraft this summer, and we also want everyone to be safe, especially when around electricity. Flying drones, model aircraft and kites close to power lines can quickly dampen the fun and put people and property at risk.

Model aircraft, kites or drones touching power lines or equipment can risk causing a flashover, explosion, fire or electrocution. This won’t just damage your aircraft but can affect other people and property put at risk from a power cut.

If you are pitching a tent, look up and be aware of overhead wires. Tent poles are more than capable of reaching overhead power lines when fully assembled. It is also important to secure your tent firmly as windy conditions can cause tents to blow up into power lines risking power cuts to yourself, your neighbours or your campground. Here’s what you need to do to help you stay safe:

z Always fly your aircraft in an area free of power lines and associated equipment

z Keep your aircraft within your line of sight at all times

z Fly drones and model craft in clear, calm weather when it is easier to see them and keep them under control

z Only fly your aircraft during daylight hours

z Check for nearby power lines when putting up or taking down tents and ensure they are firmly secured

If your aircraft becomes entangled in power lines or electrical equipment or flies into a substation, phone us on 0800 508 100. We will safely retrieve it for you. The team who work on and around our lines are trained to enter these facilities safely and are on call to help.

Have fun and play safely this summer!

The infamous ark which was swept away from Quinney’s Bush Camp in the July 2021 floods, and later found washed up 287km away on a Taranaki beach, is back in business this summer.

Andrew Quinney, operations manager, says ‘Mark’s Ark’ travelled around 155 nautical miles but didn’t make it back in time to use last year.

“We’re so pleased it’s back up and running for the silly season,” he says. “It was built eight years ago by my dad Mark for kids to use in the swimming hole, so we know families are going to love using it again now it’s back.”

The ark only needed a small amount of work to restore it as, despite travelling so far on open water, it suffered hardly any damage.

“Once back home, Mark’s Ark was found to be in pretty good shape for having survived a voyage down the flooded Motupiko and Motueka Rivers, right out into Tasman Bay and

then across towards the North Island before being blown up the coast to land at Opunake.

“The only damage sustained was scrapes along the sides and a punctured mussel buoy.

After repairs, it has been returned to Quinney’s Lake with a new Quinney’s Bush logo on the flagpole to make it easier to be identified in case it ever escapes again.”

The Quinney’s team have even added the story of the ark’s adventure to a noticeboard next to the river, with photos showing the extraordinary journey it made.

“Mark’s Ark had undergone some modifications over the years, like extending the sides and strengthening the structure to survive the many hours of lively fun that kids had on it in Quinney’s Lake, but it was never thought it would need to withstand open sea experiences.”

The team dig out a new swimming hole every single year, due to the July floods, and this year’s looks bigger and deeper than the last.

Movies

“We’ve managed to salvage part of the old river slide structure, so have put this in place with over 20 tons of concrete, which is on the stock bank surrounded by rock work,” Andrew says.

“The ark is chained to that to ensure it doesn’t float off again. The river slide will be completed in winter of 2023.”

The campground is already fully booked for New Year with the summer season looking to be a busy one.

“There’s still plenty of room around mid-January for powered and non-powered sites and we have a new mezzanine cabin that I built myself.

“It’s a cool-looking cabin with a mezzanine sleeping area, which the kids will love. We also have built a new BBQ and washing-up area for guests to use.”

The entrance has been widened on both sides of SH6 to allow campers to pull over safely.

“We’ve focused on the environment this winter, by planting well over 100 trees, and digging out and restoring a wetland for native ducks and birds to visit.”

They’re on the Nelson App

Andrew Quinney and his dog Asher show off the South Island’s most famous pontoon, Mark’s Ark, which is back this summer. Photo: Supplied.

Outstanding opportunity on Tāhunanui Drive

Residential or commercial? Investment or development? There are plenty of options for this 750 square metre section on busy Tāhunanui Drive. Great for business exposure.

Zoned residential, but with consent for commercial use, this property is currently used as office space and leased for at least another two years. With immediate income, it gives you time to decide your next move.

The section is big enough for a potential residential development or it could continue to be used as an office. Located across the road from the Tool Shed and next to a motel, this is a desirable section in Nelson’s seaside suburb. To find out more, call Bevan or Liam today.

Tāhunanui | 75 Tāhunanui Drive

Fairfield goes Shakespearean this summer

JUDENE EDGAR

Nelson theatregoers are in for a large dose of Shakespearean hilarity in January when two shows featuring the The Bard’s wit go on show at Fairfield House.

First up is Piece of Work Productions debut show at Fairfield House with its presentation of the The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) and then the award-winning professional troupe The Barden Party returns for two nights of its new ‘rockabilly musical retelling’ of Much Ado About Nothing.

Piece of Work Productions’ Anton Bentley says that he wanted to give Nelson audiences something fun, fantastic and frivolous. “We’ve had so many cancellations over the past two years, so I wanted to provide some much-needed entertainment.”

Anton’s initial debut production was going to be Children of the Poor in 2020, but unfortunately this was cancelled one week out from opening night due to

changing Alert Levels.

While Anton says he could have rescheduled, only a month later lead actor Brodie Seelan was diagnosed with aplastic anaemia and had to undergo treatment including chemotherapy and a

bone marrow transport.

The irreverent fast-paced play romps through all 37 of the Bard’s plays in 97 minutes as three madcap actors in tights weave their wicked way through all of Shakespeare’s comedies, histories and

tragedies in one outrageously wild ride.

“It will leave the audience breathless and helpless with laughter.”

The cast of three comprises local actors Matthew Edgar, Imogen Vlugter and Myles Smalley. With

lightning-fast costume changes, each actor plays a myriad of roles as they create mayhem with Shakespeare’s plots.

The Barden Party director Laura Irish is also excited to bring their new show back to Fairfield with a new cast, a new show and already a sellout season across the country.

“It’s been an amazing journey with our show which was created in a Nelson backyard during Covid. Now with its second season, we have shows from Invercargill to Auckland with an incredibly talented cast. We can’t wait to share it with Nelson audiences.”

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) performs at Fairfield House, Nelson Monday 9 to Friday 13 January 2023 at 6.30pm and The Barden Party’s Much Ado About Nothing is on Wednesday 18 and Thursday 19 of January. For tickets go to fairfieldnelson.org.nz/events/ or door sales are available.

Further relief for storm-affected residents approved

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

Nelson City Council has approved an unbudgeted payment of $50,000 into the Mayoral Relief Fund to provide some degree of relief to the remaining fund applicants.

The fund was established to partially help alleviate the emotional and financial stress experienced by residents after the August 2022 weather event by providing oneoff assistance for extraordinary circumstances where real need can be shown.

Mayor Nick Smith, who included the proposal in his mayor’s report

to council, said it was an “unusual step” that shouldn’t be seen as a precedent.

As of 15 December, there were 18 applications for the fund yet to be approved and another 14 to be reviewed following the approval of token amounts of $1,000.

With the additional funding now confirmed, the final complying applications should be approved by Christmas at which point the fund can come to an end.

The mayor had been concerned about applicants being disadvantaged because they had only applied to the fund after they had a full understanding of their costs and insurance cover.

“The extra $50,000 for the Mayoral Relief Fund will help the last batch of applicants,” Smith said. “It will still only pay a fraction of losses that are not covered by insurance and the [Earthquake Commission].”

Smith acknowledged that ratepayers were ultimately footing the bill for the $50,000 council contribution, “but it’s about helping fellow Nelsonians who are doing it tough.”

Council’s contribution of $50,000 makes up 6 per cent of the Mayoral Relief Fund. The rest of the $789,000 came from the government (50 per cent) and private donations (44 per cent).

Council also approved extra rate remission relief for residents of the 43 remaining yellow- or red-stickered homes that cannot be lived in.

“They are still indirectly paying rates with the rent or motel costs for their temporary housing,” Smith said.

The rates remission is being backdated to 30 November and will include the Uniform Annual General Charge and the General Rate.

Water, wastewater, stormwater, and flood protection charges had already been remitted.

All potentially eligible property owners will be notified of the re-

mission process, and those who meet the criteria will be provided with an application form.

Eligible red-stickered ratepayers who have already completed an application form will have the remission automatically applied, while yellow-stickered properties will need to be worked through on a case-by-case basis.

Smith said storm recovery was dominating his work and the city still had “huge” problems ahead in 2023.

N E L S O N A P P E A R A N C E M E D I C N E

Myles Smalley, Matthew Edgar with Imogen Vlugter (front). Photo: Tony Homan.

Council approved further rates remission for the 43 homes that still cannot be lived in. Photo: Jack Malcolm.

TRACY ALLAN

At this time of year, you may be considering what New Year’s resolutions are right for you, like drinking more water and ditching the booze, and after the year we’ve all had you can’t be blamed for leaning a little too hard on coping mechanisms to get you through the days and weeks.

In my mind’s eye, it’s as if the year was played in two halves. Before being evacuated by boat on 17 August, and after. But I’m not adverse to looking for assistance in restoring my balance and re-connecting my mind, body and spirit.

Statistics are hard to find but there is no doubt by looking around that we have a wealth of holistic practitioners operating in Nelson, so it made sense to find out what some of them are doing. I’ve done the legwork around town, finding out some of the holistic practices on offer, so you can give your body a factory reset at the beginning of 2023.

Starting at Wellness New Zealand on Collingwood Street, I experienced Holistic Pulsing with Tina

Gonzalez. Touted as ‘mind-body work that rocks,’ Holistic Pulsing can feel like you are being ‘rocked like a baby’. It is a deeply relaxing experience where I leave feeling like a weight has been removed from my shoulders.

I’m curious about the benefits of immersing myself in a space and effectively turning off all my senses, so I head into Float on Rutherford Street. As soon as I walk through the door I am greeted by Reuben, who has been running the space since 2018.

I chose the black pod. My float lasts an hour with time to change and have a shower after. As the gentle soundtrack plays in the background, I find it is a deeply calming experience, only slightly interrupted on the odd occasion when I bump into the walls.

My Covid-19 recovery took longer than expected and I was surprised by the vertigo that lingered, but if I’d headed to meet former All Black Royce Willis, who operates out of the same building as Float, I may have found instant relief. Here at his Dizziness Clinic, Royce treats clients who are suffering from a

range of vertigo and dizziness issues.

I was slowly recovering from ‘horrendous’ toothache when I found myself in the safe hands of Thomas Spring who offers Feldenkrais as a one-to-one treatment or in classes. Feldenkrais can help you prevent falls and recover more quickly from injuries, and according to Thomas it can enhance your performance in everyday activity.

You can overcome aches and pains by addressing the cause of

your problems and creating longterm solutions.

It is difficult to explain what is happening during the session, but Thomas explains to me the concept of neuroplasticity whilst he gently moves my head and shoulders in a rhythmic motion.

I feel like I could be persuaded to join his regular classes at the Hall on Trafalgar Street.

Like several other people I talked to this year, I have a pain in my shoulder that I sense has come from extended time spent scroll-

ing on my phone, so I head out to Tahunanui in search of the answer.

I also wanted to find out how adverse I am to needles, so I head to the Nelson Shinkyu Acupuncture Clinic in Tahunanui which provides traditional Japanese Acupuncture. Daiki has years of experience treating pain, injury, stress, digestive and neurological problems, and is registered with Acupuncture NZ and is an ACC Treatment Provider. It turns out that acupuncture gives me a bit of a rush and left me feeling less pain than I went in with. I booked another session.

And over the road on Muritai Street, I met the Taoist Tai Chi Society who are beginning new classes for beginners in February. The practice of Tai Chi can help to calm the mind while maintaining a flexible body, and they say that those who are brittle will break. So, with all of these on offer in Nelson and more, I concur that it is possible to reset your body and I suggest you head out and support the local community to start 2023 with a clean slate, so to speak.

Taoist Tai Chi Society members practice in Muritai Street. Photo: Tracy Allan.

partnered with

Onwards and upwards for local sport after blockbuster year

JACK MALCOLM

After taking a backseat in the midst of a global pandemic, local sport in Tasman came back in full force for 2022 as the community adapted to their new normal.

From achievements on the world stage to watching the next generation of talent start to flourish, it has been an incredible year of local sport.

There was jubilation, and there was heartbreak, there were winners, and there were losers, but in the end a lot of memories were made. It’s hard to look past the big achievements first, like Nathan Fa’avae linking up with his team, AVAYA, after being unable to travel last year, and winning their seventh adventure racing world title, an achievement that earned him his third Nelson sportsperson of the year.

Val Smith added another bronze Commonwealth Games medal to her cabinet for bowling and Niamh Fisher-Black won the U23 road cycling world title after backing herself and paying for the trip out of pocket when Cycling New Zealand said they couldn’t afford to send their athletes to the championships.

There were also major achievements in more minor sports, like

breaking five national age-grade records at 14 years old. Nelson had a whole raft of people achieving on a national and international stage, as well as at home, like with Athletic College Old Boys going unbeaten through their 2021/22 season and Marist Women winning the premier grade Tasman Trophy.

While the local teams in national competitions didn’t achieve the goals they had set out at the start of the season, there was still a lot of success to be found.

The Tasman Mako women got their first win in over two years to finish their Farrah Cup campaign with three wins, the most in franchise history, while the men struggled with the absence of key playmakers with four wins and six losses.

and only improved as they finished the regular season first equal on points, but faced heartbreak when they were bundled out of the semi-finals by the Otago Nuggets.

started with a hiss and a

Despite the lack of silverware, there were standout achievers, like veteran Sam Dempster being picked up in the Tall Blacks squad after 15 seasons with the Giants and the midfield pair of Alex Nankivell and Levi Aumua having a breakout season for the Mako. The list of achievements and accolades made by local sportspeople and teams throughout the year is almost immeasurable. Nelson punches well above its weight in a wide range of sports and it’s the hard work of the people behind the scenes who keep things ticking. The volunteers, who week in and week out are there to give up their time to help make the sport they love a reality, are the backbone of local sport in the community. And for 2023? Who knows… With so many aspiring local athletes in so many different genres, the world is truly their oyster for what may come next.

MARK

speed skater Mikaela Macdonald’s seven medals at the Oceania Champs and weightlifter Tia Nacagilevi

The NBS Nelson Giants’ season

roar

Mako Levi Aumua made a name for himself this year. Photo: Barry Whitnall/Shuttersport.

Far left: Heads up as a bat goes flying in representative cricket. Photo: Chris Symes/Shuttersport. Above: A wayward tackle upends a Marist tackler as he braces for impact in the second division.

Photo: Chris Symes/Shuttersport.

Left: The Mako women were all smiles as they found their winning ways again in 2022. Photo: Gavin Hadfield/Shuttersport.

Beach sprints back in action in new year

Now in its third edition, the National Beach Sprint Championships has gone from strength to strength as they prepare for their biggest instalment yet on January 3.

From racing at Rabbit Island in 2021, the sport has exploded in popularity and will see some of the best athletes in the country descend on Tāhunanui as they aim to earn a qualification spot to the Bali Beach Games later in the year.

With beach sprint rowing confirmed as an event at the 2026 Victoria Commonwealth Games and a bid underway to be approved as an Olympic event for Los Angeles 2028, the sport is set to break onto the world stage. The Bali Beach Games, in August, will feature a whole range of disciplines

from open-water swimming to beach soccer and beach volley, and is organised by the Association of National Olympic Committees. The rowing events will be men’s and women’s solos and mixed doubles.

With Olympic gold medalist Emma Twigg already qualifying New Zealand for the women’s solo with her first place at the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals, two other spots are still up for grabs, the men’s solo and the mixed double.

The Nelson event, hosted by Swift Racing and Nelson Rowing Club, acts as the Oceania Qualifier for the Beach Games and it is expected athletes from Australia and the Pacific Islands will come to race.

Nelson-raised Olympic rower and

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In 1842,

to

But he found himself up to his waist in water as he hauled the boat

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World Beach Sprint Finals silver medallist in the mixed coxed quad, Brook Robertson ,says he’s always excited at the prospect of ocean racing.

“Beach Sprint Racing is awesome – it’s a great event to be involved in as a rower, and it’s also great fun to watch.”

Brook and his partner, Olympic rower Lucy Spoors, will not attend the Nelson event this year after just having a

baby together, but he says they love racing the events they’ve competed at both locally and abroad.

“It’s fast, unpredictable, there’s an element of jeopardy, and it is not over until you cross that finish line. It’s literally about running around and playing at the beach.”

Most of the races at Nelson will be in Swift coxed quads, with a small number of mixed

doubles races and some singles events, which will be prioritised for the serious Bali contenders.

A small group of NZ athletes are not long home from the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals in Wales and with some of them planning to race in Nelson, you could be meeting them on the beach and lining up to race them in the round robin format.

Brought to you by Marsden House

a new settler named Pratt, loaded his family and baggage into a ship’s boat planning to shorten the journey to Nelson town by landing at Auckland Point.

the beach. The road was newly made and very rough.

bridge over Saltwater Creek was not completed so they had to wait till the tide ebbed to cross the ford to Bridge St.

Haven Road

A Nelson Rowing Club team racing to the shore at last year’s National Beach Sprint Championships. Photo: Karmyn Ingram Photography.

Nelson-born Olympic rower and World Beach Sprint Finals silver medallist Brook Robertson will not be racing again this year at the National Beach Sprint Championships after his partner and Olympic rower Lucy Spoors recently gave birth to a baby boy. Photo: Karmyn Ingram Photography.

Community Notices

MONDAY

PHILOSOPHY CLUB meets 2nd & 4th Mon of the month. 10am, Melrose House. Continuing with "How do you know if you're really real?" Ph: Zoe 027 974 1758

TUESDAY

WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ Tues 10 Jan, 10- 11.30am. Burning Edge Café, Tapawera. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities and services. www.wellby.org.nz 03 5467681.

WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ Tues 10 Jan, 1.30-3pm. Richmond Library. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities, and services. www.wellby.org.nz. Ph: 03 546 7681.

COFFEE & CROSS Want to talk to someone about God, church, Jesus? No catch - join me for coffee at YAZA, 11-12 Tues. I'll listen. Rev. Gordon, wearing a Cross & Collar.

WEDNESDAY

PLAY PÉTANQUE at Nelson pétanque club. Wed and Sun. 1.15pm -3 .00pm. A game for all ages. Come along and try us out. Ph: Roger or Shirley 546 6562.

THURSDAY

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP - meet 1st Thurs of month Broadgreen House 276 Nayland Rd, 1.30-3.30pm contact Bill Ph: 544 8635 or 539 1137.

FRIDAY

new people. Every Tues & Fri, 10am in Nelson, Stoke, Richmond. Ph: Karin 022 152 9963.

COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE every Fri, 9-11.30am. Victory Community Centre. Designed to make treatment affordable and accessible for all. Dress comfortably in loose fitting clothing so you can roll up your pants and sleeves. Cost: Sliding Scale - $5 - $40

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

HIGGINS HERITAGE PARK Steam-Up Community Craft Fair. 2 Jan, 9-3pm. 222 Pigeon Valley Rd, Wakefield. Great number of craft stalls, food, fruit & drinks, Fire Brigade kids challenge, jigger, honey barrel & traction engine rides, plenty of parking, music, www.higginsheritagepark.co.nz.

NELSON RAILWAY Founders Park. We hope to have the train running daily until Sunday 8 Jan. Check our Facebook page and Website for details..

NELSON SPIRITUALIST CHURCH weekly service Sunday 7pm-8pm. Corner Tipahi and Motueka Sts.

GENERAL GROUPS

NELSON CATHEDRAL CHRISTMAS TREE Until-15 Jan. Daily 8.30 - 7pm. Late night Fridays 30 Dec.

THE SUTER ART SOCIETY Summer Exhibition. “Pay and Collect” until - 22 Jan. A selection of small paintings ideal for giving or posting to friends.

BEYOND THE FACE EXHIBITION by Age Concern Nelson Tasman. Until 27 Jan, 9-5pm. Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows. Come along and find out the interesting story behind the face.

COULD YOU VOLUNTEER on a Thurs or Mon morning 8.30-10am to assist elderly people on and off our van? And take them to our day activ-

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY

50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY

SEND TO: myevent@nelsonweekly.co.nz

ity programme in Annesbrook Drive. Please Ph: Maaike 03 2655224 email maaikef@psusi.org.nz

FALLS PREVENTION: Free 2hr session for anyone who has fallen or is at risk of falling. Relaxed & informal setting. Book at Nelson Bays Primary Health. Ph: Ange 021 790 415.

FOOD, IS IT A PROBLEM FOR YOU? Are you suffering from anorexia, bulimia, obesity and/or compulsive eating? Overeaters Anonymous works. Ph: 022 673 0237. All welcome.

ARE YOU A CHRISTIAN wanting to make a difference in the life of a child? We are looking for caring Christian people who are willing to open their home to care for a child/young person. To find out more, Ph: Mika at Open Home Foundation 027 461 0497 mika.ito@ohf.org.nz.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS - Is alcohol causing problems for you in your life? Want to stop drinking but can't? Maybe we can help. Support meetings every day. Call 0800aaworks 0800 229 6757.

SURVIVORS AND THRIVERS If you have or have had cancer, supporting someone with cancer come and meet others in this friendly atmosphere. Register info@cancernelson.org.nz or P: 539 1137 for details.

WAKEFIELD COMMUNITY BUS: HELP NEEDED

The Nelson Tasman Community Transport Trust provides affordable community public transport in areas where there’s little available. Wakefield Bus is in need of support – can you help? We’re interested in hiring a local mini-bus (6-11 seater) on a regular basis & looking for volunteer drivers, no special licence required. To ensure our bus service continues NTCTT are looking for board members with a few hours to spare. Ph: 020 4196 0553.TO BOOK A SEAT - call or text 020 4195 8866.

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP. Cancer Society Nelson 102 Hardy Street, if you have or have had breast cancer come along to this friendly atmosphere. Register 539 1137 or info@cancernelson.org.nz.

BIRDLIFE CENTRE OF NEW ZEALAND needs volunteer pest trappers in the Centre of NZ Reserve in Nelson city. No experience needed; full training given. If you are interested, reasonably fit and can spare two hours a fortnight Ph: Gretchen 021 266 3867.

FEELING SAD, STRESSED, DEPRESSED, OR STUCK? Identify and explore new ways to move forward with a Life Linc Counsellor. Up to 10 face to face counselling sessions available now for individuals and couples. 548 2400 lifelinc.co.nz

LUNG CANCER CONNECT for those who are going through or who have gone through lung cancer Register 539 1137.

NELSON WOODTURNING CLUB. Join us at our club rooms for Turning, camaraderie and sharing of knowledge. New Learn to Turn classes starting soon. Ph: or txt Allan for more information 021 543 345.

ST JOHN COMMUNITY SHOP friendly and fit volunteer needed to assist with furniture deliveries and donation pick-ups around Nelson. Ph: Stacie 03 548 8598 or visit instore 46 Rutherford St, weekdays 10am - 4.30pm.

ENLIVEN POSITIVE AGEING social and activity groups. Looking for volunteers to help on vans or chat, make tea, help games etc. Ph: Trish 265 5224.

NELSON TASMAN HOSPICE Need volunteers to help in Nelson, Richmond, Motueka and Takaka Hospice Shops. Volunteering is a great chance to

meet new people, gain new skills and help your Hospice. Morning or afternoon availability appreciated. Ph: 03 546 3912 or Email Krisca.gould@ nelsonhospice.org.nz

GROW Needing help. Use a Program and Method. We are here for your mental health. Koha appreciated. Ph: Patricia 547-6120.

KIDS YOGA 6-12 years old in bright new studio in Tahuna. Book 03 545 8289. info@cancernelson. org.nz or Ph: 539 1137

NELSON HINEMOA CROQUET CLUB Saltwater Lane (off Halifax St, beside squash & tennis courts). Give Croquet a Go: Friendly supportive club, for competition or just fun. Coaching and equipment available. Individuals or groups catered for. Nettie 548 8432 / 027 682 8168 nettiebarrow@gmail.com

HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT OF BECOMING A VOLUNTEER? Are you a community organisation looking for volunteers, training, info or advice? Check out our website www.volunteernelson.org. nz Ph 546 7681.

NELSON SPIRITUALIST CHURCH weekly service Sunday 7pm-8pm. Corner Tipahi and Motueka Sts.

FREE FUNCTION ROOM HIRE to all community groups. Avail 7 days. Wakatu Hotel 83 Collingwood St. Craig 548 4299.

ASTHMA? COPD? Nelson Asthma Society offers a free eight-week Pulmonary Rehab Course - Nelson course in August, and Motueka in November. This course can help you improve your respiratory self-management skills and shortness of breath. Phone your medical centre for a “Pulmonary Rehab course referral” or contact asthma.nelson@ xtra.co.nz

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

NELSON NEWBIES WALKING GROUP welcomes

YOUR CAREER

PRIVATE NOTICE

ALLIANCE – SEASONAL TEAM MEMBERS

Are you looking to earn some good money while

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

Ngā painga - what’s in it for you?

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

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

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

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

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

• Up to 7 months of full-time seasonal employment

• Upskill yourself with an opportunity to gain NZQA qualifications

• Receive ongoing training and support

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

• Access to our free employee assistance programme

Ō pūkenga - about you

• You are eligible to work in New Zealand

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

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

• You enjoy working within a team environment

• You are physically fit, committed, and reliable

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

Find out more at www.alliance.co.nz