Waimea Weekly - 29 March 2023

Locally Owned and Operated

Rhondda’s makeover

Wednesday 29 March 2023

Waimea Weekly

Alfie table tennis star

‘Unpalatable’ 9 per cent rates increase

MAX FRETHEY

Local Democracy Reporter

Residents can have their say from Wednesday on Tasman District Council’s proposal of an average 9.06 per cent rates increase.

Public consultation on the rates proposal, the main change to council’s annual plan for the

Wolves’ heroic win

JACK MALCOLM

A heroic captain’s performance by Wolves’ (Wanderers/Motue ka) Sean Neal has sealed his team a seven-wicket win in premier cricket’s one-day final against ACOB.

Sean hit the winning runs with a boundary to finish with 69 runs not out, despite tearing his bicep earlier in the day while bowling. Battling through the pain with the help of adrenaline, he says the result was the perfect way to cap off their season.

“The last two games were tough

SEE PAGE 20

2023/24 year, will run until the end of April.

“I don’t think anyone wants to be sitting here, having a conversation [about] or suggesting a 9.06… per cent rate increase,”

Mayor Tim King says. “Looking around the country, there is a variation, but there are an awful lot of councils facing very similar

decisions to us.”

Like everyone else, councils are grappling with rising interest rates and inflationary pressures which makes it difficult to keep rates increases low.

“As unpalatable as 9.06 per cent is, I recognise the work that we did to get down to 9.06 per cent,” said councillor Brent Maru.

The starting point was a 20 per cent increase. Councillors and staff worked that figure down to 9.06 per cent through a series of workshops.

Brent says, in times of high rates increases many people in the community feel that council should peel its services right back to the basics.

But he thinks cutting back spending on what he feels are “key components” of council’s programme, like community grants and supporting local facilities, would have greater ramifications for the region than the benefit from those savings.

SEE PAGE 2

Wolves walked away deserving winners after a seven-wicket victory in the final.

Photo: Chris Symes/Shuttersport.

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STREET TALK

With rates set to rise are you prepared for it?

“Yes, we are prepared but it will be hard.”

“No, we are not, we are just snacking rather than having meals.”

9 per cent rates increase

FROM PAGE 1

Councillor Christeen Mackenzie says she would “rather not” have to discuss a rates increase of 9.06 per cent but thinks “kicking the can down the road” to give increased greater costs to residents further down the line wasn’t the solution.

“We have to be taking into account that today’s ratepayers are also future ratepayers.”

Tim echoed her views, also referencing the 0 per cent rates increase during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020/21 and the lower rates paid in the past. “For everyone who’s paying

rates, just one year is not the full story. It’s what you paid previously, and what you will have to pay in the future. They’re both equally important.”

To help lower the increase, day-to-day operating budgets have been reduced, fewer staff will be hired, and fees and charges have increased among other measures.

Some further options considered by council that aren’t being proposed at this stage include cutting subsidies for recreational school pool use in summer, cancelling the community grants scheme, and not funding depreciation

costs. However, now is the time for residents to have their say on whether they agree with the council’s proposals.

“There is some room to move,”

Tim says.

Copies of the consultation document, complete with the reasoning behind why funding is proposed to be cut in some areas and not others, will be available at council’s service centres and libraries, and can be found online at shape.tasman.govt.nz.

“Being in a retirement village means that our rate-paying days are behind us, but I do sympathise with those who are not so fortunate.”

“At this time, it’s unnecessary”

Heather Gibbs

Colin Bowden

Monica Hamilton

Tracy Williams

Jessica Vowles and Ashley Kernot proudly show off their cheesecake creations. Thanks to the public donation of hundreds of lemons, the pair were among the trainee chef cookery students at Te Pukenga NMIT who got to make 1500 cheesecakes for Kai with Love to distribute in their food boxes.When the Waimea Weekly ran a story about the project last month, the community were quick to rally round to provide the lemons. Culinary arts tutor and former Hell’s Kitchen NZ winner, Chris Fortune, says students made 700 cheesecakes in a five-hour practical class. “Students are gaining real world food production skills as well as giving back to the community.”

50km a day solo

SARA HOLLYMAN

A Richmond man has been biking 50 kilometres every day during March to raise much needed funds for the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter. Jason Craig, investment advisor at Craigs Investment Partners, also has the backing of the company who are matching donations dollar for dollar. His work colleagues across the country have also joined. Collectively, Jason and Top of the South ‘Cirque Du Sore Legs’ have raised more than $8000.

“This is my fifth year of doing it,” Jason says. “I’m usually on my bike at 5.30am and I’m not a morning person.”

He has been cycling his daily 50km predominantly on his gravel bike.

“It’s one where I can stay off the road. Riding at 5.30am, it’s still really dark and the roads not the safest place to ride, it’s good not having to worry about cars. In the mornings I’ll go out round Rabbit Island on the cycle trail. If I do one lap of Rabbit Island it’s 44km, if I do two it’s 55km. It can be a bit spooky riding the back of Rabbit Island in the pitch black.”

He says he tries to complete his 50km every day, but a motorbiking trip round the South Is-

land meant he had to make up an extra 250km before his trip near the end of March.

“If you miss a day it compounds and that comes very quick. It’s much easier to try and do 50km when you’re tired than it is to do 100. You might’ve had a day off, but you’ve still got to do it.”

Jason’s colleague Tanya McMurtrie has been training for a marathon so has also been racking up the kilometres pounding the pavement.

She says one of the team in Blenheim is a surfer, so surfed 50 waves in a day as his con-

tribution.

Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust manager, Paula Muddle, says unfortunately she hasn’t been able to complete the challenge this year.

“But Craigs have really taken it on and being super competitive. The dollar for dollar at the end of the financial year is a no-brainer, people can essentially double their donation.”

She says the weather events over the past year have shown how valuable and needed the service is. To donate search ‘Craigs’ on Givealittle.

Jason Craig (front) is biking 50km every day to fundraise alongside his colleagues. Pictured, from left: Karl Williscroft, Dion Edgar, Tanya McMurtrie, Carl Babe, Cara Jameson, Kerryn Wratt, Matt Wilkinson and Deborah Murray. Photo: Sara Hollyman.

Celebrating front line of aged care

ANNE HARDIE

The aged-care sector continues to experience severe worker shortages but last Friday was an opportunity to celebrate the frontline staff working at Summerset Richmond Ranges. It was one of 32 Summerset retirement villages around the country acknowledging ‘Frontliners Day’ which recognised the selflessness and hard work of nurses, caregivers, housekeepers, kitchen staff, maintenance staff and village managers. At Richmond Ranges, dozens of notes were written by the residents to show their appreciation of frontline staff who help them every day, including one from Bev Head who says those working in aged care are special people who go out of their way to help elderly residents. “They do a wonderful job and not every person could do it. You have to be a special person.”

Dayna George has been working in

Outwards or upwards? Richmond’s housing decisions

health care for 20 years including aged care for the past 13 years, and loves it.

“I had two years off when I got married and when I came back I don’t know how many hugs I got from everyone.

“It is very rewarding.”

Likewise, Jayne Newton who has only been a caregiver for less than a year in the memory care unit, says residents already feel like family.

Summerset’s general manager operations Eleanor Young says frontline staff are often unsung heroes, yet provide a crucial service to residents, from maintaining their homes and cooking meals to providing care to those who are no longer able to live independently.

She says the aged care sector across New Zealand continues to experience severe staff shortages with registered nurses, caregivers, housekeeping, kitchen and property maintenance roles all in demand.

The population of Richmond has been growing steadily and is expected to keep growing for many years. Tasman Distrcit Council say there are only two options to handle future growth in Richmond – expand outwards or increase densi-

ty within the existing urban area. “Realistically we need to do both - make better use of the urban areas we already have, and then extend urban areas where appropriate,” said a statement. TDC want help to get future housing options

right. “We need people who live, work, play and relax, in and around Richmond, to help plan for a better future for everyone.” You can do the Richmond Future Housing Options Survey at shape.tasman.govt. nz/central-richmond

the Interislander and Bluebridge ferry services have had to cancel sailings due to a range of issues.

Caught out by ferry cancellations

ANNE HARDIE

A Nelson couple are hoping it will be third time lucky as they try to get their car onto one of the problematic Cook Strait ferries after being unable to get it home from the North Island since early January.

So far it has cost Louise Richardson and Stu Lowe about $2,000 in airfares after their ferry bookings were twice cancelled and they were forced to book last-minute flights.

The couple were heading home from Northland in early January when their first ferry sailing on the Bluebridge ferry was cancelled.

The next available booking was not for weeks, and as they needed to get back to work they left the car, complete with bikes and paddleboards, with relatives and flew home.

When they flew back to the collect the car they could only get a 2am booking and were halfway down the North Island when they got a text to say the sailing was cancelled. With no bookings available in the short term, they returned to Auckland to park the car with relatives again and flew home.

Now they are about to fly north again to try for a third time to get the car home and Louise says, if the ferry is cancelled again they will have to consider selling the car because they are paying so much money to try and get it home.

She says the experience has been frustrating and expensive, but they have been lucky. They had somewhere to store

the car safely and they have another car they can use, plus a generous neighbour who lends them a car sometimes.

“It’s an absolute shock when it happens. You just can’t believe it.

“There’s a lot of decisions to be made quickly and it has cost us a fortune in flights because when you are last minute, flights are expensive.”

Both the Interislander and Bluebridge ferries have been plagued by ongoing problems through the summer peak season and the Interislander has repeatedly cancelled bookings on its vessels.

In January the Kaitaki lost power in high winds near the rocky Wellington coast and has had gearbox issues ever since. It has now cancelled all sailings on the vessel until it is repaired.

The Kaitaki is part of an ageing fleet of ferries owned by KiwiRail which now has a contract with South Korea’s Hyundai Mipo Dockyard to build two interisland ferries to replace the elderly vessels. However, those replacements are not expected to arrive in the country until 2025 and 2026.

Interislander executive general manager Walter Rushbrook says the fleet are nearing the end of their useful lives and it is difficult to source appropriate second-hand freight and passenger ferries at short notice while waiting for the new ferries to be built.

If the Kaitaki is not ready to sail during the Easter holiday period, he says the goal is to

ensure as many booked passengers as possible will be able to travel.

The other ships, Aratere, Kaiarahi and the freight-only Valentine are still sailing. While the Interislander has problems, its rival Bluebridge has also wallowed in the water. It sent one of its fleet to Sydney in February for scheduled work and a new vessel that arrived in January, the Connemara, had engine problems early on.

Sailing cancellations have left people stranded both sides of the Cook Strait and Louise says there will be different challenges for everyone, such as people with medical conditions who often take just enough medication for a trip, or young families. She says being caught up in ferry cancellations will be very stressful for many people.

Stu agrees and says the cancellations have been a nuisance for them but could be financially challenging for many passengers, and stressful as they work out what to do with vehicles and get home.

He also has sympathy for the ferry companies that have faced Covid-19, staffing and weather issues. But their business models are based on second-hand fleets and he says those models are flawed.

Having a reliable Cook Strait service is critical for the country and Stu says the new Interislander ferries cannot come soon enough, though he worries the docking facilities will not be ready in time for their arrival.

Both

Photo: Paula Hulburt.

Caregivers Dayna George (left) and Jayne Newton (right) with resident Bev Head and another note to add to the board.

Photo: Anne Hardie.

What makes a community dam?

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

The Waimea Community Dam has provided some unique challenges but also some great opportunities to those involved in its construction.

Civil engineer Richard Greatrex is the dam’s construction manager and engineers’ representative. Prior to taking on this role, he worked on several major transport infrastructure projects around the country.

“It was a great opportunity to combine previous experience I’ve had doing major infrastructure projects of this sort of size with my interest in dams,” he says. “Roads are very good training grounds for civil engineers because, much like dams, they require coordination of lots of different aspects.”

Richard oversees specialist contractors who do drilling, waterproofing, and linking the dam to the outside world, who then work alongside Fulton Hogan and Taylors Contracting and their subcontractors to construct the dam.

There are also engineers across multiple disciplines doing work in the geological, structural, hydrological, mechanical, and

electrical fields.

“Dams are pretty interesting bits of infrastructure for civil engineers. One of the great things about dams is the multidisciplinary nature of them.”

Major geological challenges were presented during the construction of the dam with the quality of the rock found onsite being poor and shear zones intersecting crucial locations of the build.

Richard says one of the most difficult factors was a shear zone being present at the top of the spillway, the great slide from which excess water will

spill over, allowing the Lee River to continue flowing.

“By the time we found that shear zone, we were committed to the spillway alignment because we had already excavated and started construction at the bottom.”

He says their options were to stop the project while that issue was sorted out, or to re-sequence the build and get enough of the design information out early to allow construction to progress. They opted for the latter.

“It was a close-run thing whether or not we’d be able to make all those changes and deliver

them with confidence ahead of the construction starting. That’s difficult.” But after a “sterling effort” from those working on the project, the shear zones have been addressed and the spillway is nearing completion.

“It feels really satisfying to look at that spillway today and see that we are very close to finishing.”

The Waimea Community Dam is the first publicly-funded dam to be built in more than 30 years with Otago’s Clyde Dam being commissioned back in 1992. “That’s a couple generations of engineers and contractors passing through,” Richard says. “This project is providing opportunities for the next generation of engineers to build dam engineering skills that might otherwise be lost.”

Many people who worked on the Clyde Dam have been pulled out of retirement to give advice on the project. The Waimea Community Dam’s principal geologist was even a graduate geologist on the Clyde Dam. “It’s been great on this job, we’ve had some very experienced people who’ve been able to come onto the project and provide that experience and insight, and pass it on.”

SOME DAM NUMBERS

53 metres high, 220 metres long. 150 workers during the construction’s peak.

3,000 tonnes of reinforcing steel

25,000 tonnes of sand imported.

32,000 cubic metres of concrete

110,000 cubic metres of drainage rock imported.

490,000 cubic metres of rock

13 billion litres of water to be held in reservoir (5,200 Olympicsized swimming pools worth). 17 kilometres of holes drilled for waterproof grouting.

164-metre-long spillway.

Spillway can handle 1,058 cubic metres of water per second (almost an Olympicsized swimming pool every two seconds)

Longest concrete slab formed over 50 hours of slipforming 40,000 trees planted on Rough Island to combat emissions

Richard Greatrex

The Waimea Community Dam is the first publicly-funded dam to be built in more than 30 years. Photo: Max Frethey.

Network Tasman’s prices are changing

Network Tasman owns and operates the electricity distribution network in the wider Nelson and Tasman areas, excluding Nelson Electricity’s supply area in Nelson city.

Network Tasman will increase its lines charges for residential consumers by 0.5% from 1 April 2023. This change will increase the average residential consumer’s lines charges by about $5 per year. The main reasons for the increase are to recoup increases in the inflationary costs of maintaining our network, the cost of which is offset by reduced transmission costs allocated to our network by Transpower.

Network Tasman is regulated by the Commerce Commission, which sets the amount of revenue we can earn. As a consumerowned network, we aim to deliver a cost-efficient service for our consumers. It is this consumer focus that means we consistently recover less revenue than is allowed by the Commerce Commission. Next year (2023/24), our charges are forecast to be $3.3 million less than the amount the Commerce Commission says we can charge.

Network Tasman’s residential distribution prices are currently one of the lowest charged by electricity distribution companies across the country (according to the MBIE Quarterly Survey of Domestic Electricity Prices, November 2022). Network Tasman expects this to remain the case when the new prices are introduced in April.

Big response for Rhondda’s makeover

to repair it, but not the building skills.

This year Network Tasman has also introduced time-of-use price plans for most consumers. These price plans more closely reflect the cost of providing power during different times of the day. This new price plan gives consumers more opportunities to reduce their power bills by switching usage to coincide with the cheaper off-peak times of the day (between 11pm and 7am). The overall impact of this change will depend on a few things, such as how and when you use electricity and whether your retailer chooses to pass this change on to you through their retail prices.

If you are interested in finding out more, please visit our website: www.networktasman.co.nz/network-pricing

When Kirsty Simpson asked for help to restore her ageing gypsy caravan and turn it into a therapeutic area for young people in need, she was overwhelmed by the response. Now Menzshed Waimea has a team which will spend the next month giving it a makeover, with some new cladding, a new window or two and a liveable area inside for Kirsty to use for counselling at her Wild Oats Farm near Belgrove. Kirsty is an arts psychotherapist who works with children and young people struggling with a range of issues such as trauma, anxiety and sexual abuse.

She had been looking for something she could use as a therapeutic space for them, when she spied the ageing gypsy caravan in a garden. A few weeks later it was delivered to the farm and she realised she had a job on her hands

Green Party announces local candidate

So she sought help on the Nelson Perk Jobs Facebook group and was awed by the generosity as offers of help flowed in.

Menzshed offered to carry out the restoration, Mitre 10 donated materials, Tasman Decorating put its hand up for the paint job and Hi Reach put the caravan on a truck to deliver it to Menzshed.

“I was blown away by people’s generosity.

“Within 24 hours my dream had been picked up and carried.”

Rhondda, as she has named her gypsy caravan, began life as one of several artist studios at Marahau but is long overdue for a spruce up.

Kirsty worked in art psychotherapy in the United Kingdom 16 years ago and says, even back then, the government funded therapy work for children, including pre-schoolers.

Whereas in New Zealand, she

says, therapy is usually only available for families who can afford to pay for it.

She says art psychotherapy uses creativity and art – which might be as simple as creating river stone sculptures – to begin a conversation with a young person in a less threatening way.

“The majority of children I see come with some sort of anxiety-related issues and I think social media has a lot to do with it.”

While Rhondda will be used largely for young people needing therapy, Kirsty also plans to rent it out as accommodation when it is not being used, to provide funding for families who cannot afford therapy.

Menzshed coordinator Alan Kissell says the team had been looking for a new project and the gypsy caravan fitted the bill nicely, with a good end purpose.

“This one will tidy up really well.”

the building of a coal-fired power station.

The Green Party has announced environmental lawyer Teall Crossen as their candidate for the Nelson Whakatū electorate in the upcoming general elections. Teall is an environmental barrister and activist with two decades of experience advocating for the rights of people and nature in New Zealand courts, at the United Nations, and in the corridors of the beehive. She has worked for Forest & Bird, Greenpeace International, and served Pacific Island countries at the United Nations as a legal advisor in climate negotiations. Teall’s activism began at high school where she led a protest against an industrial incinerator emitting toxic fumes. She has previously been arrested for protesting against

Crash on Richmond Deviation

One person was transported to Nelson Hospital after a multi-vehicle crash on the Richmond Deviation on Friday morning. A police spokesperson confirmed they were alerted to the collision at 10am, involving several vehicles in the southbound lane of the Richmond Deviation, between Lower Queen St and Whakatu Dr. “Diversions were in place temporarily, however the road was cleared by 10.30am,” they said at the time. A St John spokesperson said two ambulances attended the incident with one patient being taken to Nelson Hospital with moderate injuries.

ANNE HARDIE

Menzshed coordinator Alan Kissell says the gypsy caravan will tidy up well. Photo: Anne Hardie.

Students complete first homes for community

ANNE HARDIE

Three houses built by budding builders in Richmond are about to be trucked to their final destination in Nelson where they will become homes for families in need of social housing. The houses are the result of a partnership between Te Pūkenga Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) and Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities. For the past year, students have been building real houses as they learn their trade.

Last week Prime Minister Chris Hipkins was shown the houses and met some of the students who have built them and will continue to build more for the community. During his day visit to the region, he also visited flood damaged sites in Nelson and the Maitai Valley before speaking at a Chamber of Commerce event.

Kāinga Ora regional director Julia Campbell says the two-bedroom homes were designed to be “lifted and shifted” and will be trucked to Kawai St in Nelson where they will be finished internally. She says it is a win-win for the polytechnic and Kāinga Ora because the students get real experience at building a home

for somebody, while supplying much-needed homes for social housing.

The contract with the polytechnic is about to be renewed for five years and she says next year the

builds will be designed for a wider range of people, such as those struggling with mobility.

NMIT’s curriculum manager

Reid Carnegie says the house builds have provided a huge op-

portunity for level three pre-trade carpentry students on a one-year course as well as level four apprentices already working in the industry.

“It’s absolutely brilliant for the

students. It’s what they will be doing out in the industry, so why not do something really beneficial? It supports the social housing crisis and they help out the community. I think that’s absolutely awesome.”

Reid says the students were building one house a year in the past for individuals, whereas they have built three in the past year for the community and in the future that could be six.

The region has about 120 building apprentices and the Richmond campus has a large vacant space behind the buildings which he says will be used to build up to six houses a year.

Many of the houses will head to Kāinga Ora for social housing.

“The apprentices are there and there’s a need for houses,” he says. An apprenticeship programme has been developed in collaboration with the building industry, where apprentices attend four week-long courses a year.

Reid says apprentices in the industry are usually working on parts of a build in their everyday work, whereas the block courses give them the chance to learn all aspects of building a house. They then go back into the workforce with more skills.

Richmond apprentice Josh Bannan takes a break from building to chat with Prime Minister Chris Hipkins.

Photo: Anne Hardie

Local history preserved online

JO KENT

Several historical documents which are too fragile for human touch have been digitised and archived on the Tasman Heritage website in a joint venture between Tasman District Libraries and the Waimea South Historical Society. Funding from the New Zealand Libraries Partnership Programme for local heritage projects, a community grant, and money raised by the historical society went towards the professional digitisation of some of the items in the Waimea South History and Genealogical Collection. It includes unique photographs, diaries, ledgers, school rolls, minute books, community newspapers and other archives, mostly from the Waimea South area including Wakefield, Brightwater, Waimea West, and Spring Grove. The Richmond School rolls from the Waimea South Collection have already been professionally digitised and there are several items in the collection that have a high value to the community. This includes Ann Hodgson’s Wakefield store register from

1885-1890, Jones’s farm diaries, The Golden Downs Chronicle from 1949-1955, and the Wakefield Village News from 1983 to 2003. Librarian Louise Gribbon says the documents have had to be professionally digitised due to their fragile nature, size, or volume. They were also at risk of damage or loss due to theft, handling damage, pests, earthquakes, and floods.

“Ann Hodgson’s shop register is now ready to view online as well as a couple of the Brightwater farm diaries, but we still have a lot of uploading to do.”

The register covers the period from December 1885 to December 1890 and includes the names of people who purchased items from the store, as well as listing the goods they purchased and their price. Many of the early European families who settled in the Waimea South area are mentioned, as are Wakefield church groups and some local businesses. Some of the family names included in the register are Baigent, Bird, Cole, Hunt, Pearless, and Wadsworth. In addition, a full print run of ‘The Village News’

dating back to 1983 will soon be available to view, as back issues are currently being uploaded.

“The three oldest editions are published already, and we should have all the editions up on the site in about six weeks,” Louise says. The Village News, predecessor to the ‘Window on Wakefield: your

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins Nelson Visit

Last week Prime Minister Chris Hipkins spent a day in Nelson We visited flood-damaged sites that are being repaired and met with residents in the Tāhunanui slump area It was useful to hear about what is working well and further support needed as we continue our recovery from the August 2022 flooding

The Prime Minister was clear that Nelson will receive its fair share of support for our recovery and rebuild

We also visited the NMIT Te Pukenga Richmond campus and met with staff, students and officials from Government housing provider Kāinga Ora NMIT have an agreement with Kāinga Ora for their carpentry students to build new public houses The project is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn practical skills while building homes for people who need a state house

The next day, I welcomed Minister for Oceans and Fisheries Stuart Nash to Nelson where he announced Government investment of $500 000 for the Moananui oceans cluster project I advocated strongly for this funding as the Nelson Tasman region is home to more than 400 blue economy businesses This new project will establish a blue economy cluster – a group of seafood and aquaculture companies with a common interest in growing the sector’s sustainability and success on the world stage

On Friday night I held a community safety meeting in Stoke with representatives from schools, community groups and the Police Please contact my office if you have any concerns or ideas for improving community safety in the Stoke area

local news’, also known as the Wakefield Village News and the Brightwater and Wakefield Village News, had three editors over 28 years. Arnold Clark, former editor from 1997 to 2003, says he has fond memories of writing challenging articles which sparked public debate.

“We spent months going back and forth about whether the Wakefield swimming pool should have a roof or not. That filled up a lot of the pages.”

The archives have previously been difficult for the community to access and were available by appointment only.

A symbolic cheque for $1308.50 was presented to Salvation Army community ministry director Ros Johnson last weekend for cash donations raised during the annual Nelson Ulysses Toy Run in November. As well as money, about 1000 toys were also donated and distributed to those in need over the Christmas period. “We got some great toys and games given to us from the toy run which went to around 1000 children in the region. This money will be used to purchase items for families who need further assistance throughout the year. We are very grateful for this community effort,” says Ros. Photo: Supplied.

Former editor Arnold Clark holding the very first edition of The Village News with Roger Batt from the Waimea South Historical Society. Photo: Jo Kent.

New book makes up for lost time with daughter

JO KENT

A battle with postnatal depression left Richmond mum Helen Jacobs feeling regretful over her first few years of motherhood.

“I was in a very dark place and didn’t even tell Stella I loved her for the first six months of her life.

So, when I recovered from postnatal depression (PND) I felt I had to make up for that and began writing down affirmations of things I’d like to tell her.”

During the first two years of Stella’s life Helen found it difficult to say very much at all, and so the affirmations were a huge turning point in her recovery from PND.

“I really felt like I had to make up for that lost time, and after looking around for affirmation books that I could read Stella I realised what was available wasn’t really what I needed to say.”

It was only when Helen’s husband Ross joked she should turn her words into a book that the thought even crossed her mind.

“It wasn’t said in seriousness, but I thought, ‘You know what, these are words that are important for every child to hear’ and so I decided I’d do it.”

After hunting around for illustrators, she settled on Mimi Purnell whose endearing animal designs suited the affirmations perfectly.

“The book is now taking early

childhood centres by storm and has gone to more than five countries in just a few months,” Helen says.

‘Remember’ consists of 14 affirmations for babies through to 8 years old and works as a book to read to children, but also one for them to read themselves.

“At some kindys, they have put the book in a quiet corner as a way for children to sit calmly and read. I think it’s important for our children to be hearing and believing these affirmations as they help build self-esteem and emotional regulation.”

She says postnatal depression is hard because it steals what should be a special time in your life which you can’t get back.

“I wrote this book for my daughter to make up for some of those moments when I was unable to say all the things I should have been saying to my little girl.

“The first time I read it to her, Ross filmed it and it was very emotional.

“The book has universal appeal because it’s what parents might want to say to their own kids but don’t know how. The feedback I’ve had is great and I’m already on my second printing batch.”

If you want to find out more or order a copy, email rememberhelensbook@gmail.com.

Helen Jacobs with 4-year-old daughter Stella and her book Remember.

Photo: Jo Kent.

Jufen Wang and Binquan Hu Scott Mayer, Nick Smith, Doug Paulin and Suzi McAlpine, Harvey Ruru and Rachel Boyack Deborah and Doug Gribbon Syvarn Kawhena, Harper Brown (6) and Te Rina Te Kawa Rory Gibson and Molly Potter Denise McGregor, Max Hickling and Kathy Mardon

Mental health takes the spotlight in Fringe show

KATE RUSSELL

A comedy show about mental health is hoping to make an impact at the Nelson Fringe Festival. American stand-up comedian, actor, writer, podcaster, and mental health advocate Tristan Miller is bringing their show ‘Manic Impressive’ to the Refinery ArtSpace this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

A mid-western by birth, Tristan has been living in New York for the past 10 years, pursuing acting and comedy.

In Manic Impressive, Tristan offers up rapid-fire observations about both their own and mental health in general and hopes to educate, enlighten, entertain, and create empathy for those who live with mental illness.

“It’s about my experience with bipolar disorder … it’s a bit silly, surreal, and weird in places but it’s trying to make light of a difficult situation.”

The Nelson Fringe Festival started last week with a line-up of 40 shows over 10 days across three different venues.

Theatre, comedy, dance, improvisation, music, kids’ shows, and workshops have all been part of the line-up so far.

International acts have been welcomed back this year, alongside plenty of homegrown talent.

Festival director Giles Burton says the feedback on the festival

so far has been nothing but positive.

“We are well on our way to hitting our target for the Fringe overall. Quite a few things have sold out, but more importantly,

the audience seems to be loving the shows.”

Giles says the festival aims to offer people a chance to see a wide range of shows.

“So that means we welcome some

more niche shows that we know are going to sell less tickets - but that is part of the point, to allow a chance for these shows to be seen in Nelson.

“Some are pure joy and entertain-

ment, others are more challenging, and people seem to love that variety.”

After struggling through Covid19-caused cancellations the past few years, Giles says this year feels like a “real resurgence” for both audiences and performers

“People seem much more eager to be out and about - though we appreciate that even at $15 a lot of people are struggling to afford tickets.

“It has been hard for performers to create work over the last few years, not knowing if there will be a chance to present it.

“This year artists are coming back with new work and there really seems to be an excitement and buzz about bringing back live performance.”

Giles says there are still some great shows to come this week, including Tristan’s Manic Impressive.

“Tristan is impressive and he is also manic. Think Robin Williams with impressions. High energy, quick fire, and definitely from New York.”

Manic Impressive is on at the Refinery ArtSpace on Thursday 30 and Friday 31 March, and Saturday 1 April at 7.35pm.

For more information on all Fringe Festival shows and to buy tickets, go to www.nelsonfringe.co.nz

An enchanting space for children in the heart of The Meadows

st April 1pm - 3:30pm

OPEN DAY 1

A wholly nurturing environment for any child, Wildflowers Early Learning Centre (ELC) is truly a space like no other. Local owners, Amy Herbert and Hannah Burns have put their all into creating a beautiful, calm holistic setting for children and their families, with a strong focus and approach on Mindfulness as part of the curriculum.

Three years in the making, Amy’s extensive background in marketing and managing has combined perfectly with Hannah’s considerable 22 years of teaching and management experience both in New Zealand and the UK to bring Wildflowers ELC to The Meadows, Richmond. “Integrating Mindfulness as part of our curriculum, encompasses four different areas that will help support children to managed and

navigate their feelings and emotions,” says Hannah.

“We have built a sensory room, where children can have enhanced sensory experiences and take time to relax and self-regulate when they want to. We haven’t forgotten our amazing kaiako either, creating calm and beautiful spaces for them to work and rest and lots of other benefits to make them feel valued.”

Celebrating their Open Day on April 1, from 1pm until 3:30pm, Amy and Hannah have been full steam ahead over the last six months ensuring everything is set for the big day.

“We wanted to create a space for parents to come and feel safe and happy in the environment, to walk into the centre and be met by a friendly face, breath in the aromatherapy oils, hear

the calming music and set themselves up for the day on a positive vibe. We want to take the stress out of the morning rush by providing all eco-luxe nappies and wipes as well as freshly prepared meals from our in-house chef. We will also be opening the doors as a community hub and offering group events such as yoga, anti-natal classes, mindfulness teachings, healthy cooking tips and tricks on a budget etc.”

“We have some fun games planned, and a balloon artist and face painter joining us for the day. Visitors are welcome to explore the centre and ask any questions they may have. We also have a beautifully stocked shop within the centre with products selected to compliment happy, healthy living.”

Amy Herbert and Hannah Burns

The Meadows, Richmond info@wildflowerselc.co.nz

American stand-up comedian, actor, writer, podcaster, and mental health advocate, Tristan Miller is bringing their comedy show about mental health to the Nelson Fringe Festival this week. Photo: Supplied.

Near misses as drivers run red lights

I have just been reading the article about the red light running at the Queen St/ Gladstone Rd intersection. The traffic coming from north and turning into Lower Queen St are constant offenders of running the red light. They keep going until it turns red instead of stopping when they should on the orange. Traffic turning right from Lower Queen St on to Gladstone Rd are constantly delayed by the previous traffic, with the lights only staying green to allow 3 cars or 1 truck through and then getting delayed by traffic not stopping when they should, just adds to the problem of driver frustration. Pretty soon no one will stop, which will lead to bigger problems.

Scott Carpenter

Goes both ways. The intersection next to the Tahunanui Library is terrible! Bloody pedestrians dawdling (not all) across the road, playing on their phones, having fullon conversations, drinking their coffee and acting like they have all bloody day after their pedestrian light turns red on a green for vehicles. Some pedestrians even have the audacity to act like it’s the drivers fault! NCC need to fix this by building either a tunnel or an overpass that’s high enough for heavy traffic to pass under for

What’s On!

Children’s Day

Saturday 2 April, 11am

Richmond Aquatic Centre

pedestrians to use.

Alex Te Kehua

It doesn’t help when the lights let three cars through at a time. People get impatient and go, I have seen two or three cars keep going when the first one didn’t have time, let alone the rest that follow. Also, intermediate girls, paying no attention, heard the buzzer and kept walking, only

to realise the buzzer wasn’t for them. They walked right into oncoming traffic…. One ran back, the other stayed on the raised piece in the middle until the green man said it was ok to cross.

Jade McBride

It’s nothing new, cars and trucks run red lights at this corner every day and it’s just about every time they change. Even saw

a van turn right from Queen St when it says no right turn. Could do with police sitting at corner writing a few tickets and posting them out or put cameras there to catch the red lighters.

Terry Beach

Thieves caught on camera at op shop

How often do the bins get emptied?? I’ve been there and they are full to the brim. You can’t get any more in them? Are they emptied daily?

Joy Mather

The funny thing is, this is all donated and half of it goes to the dump. I’ve seen the truck at the recycling centre dumping lots of clothes as I thought it all went to people in need. And some op shops take some then sell for the price of brand-new clothes. So, there are people homeless, struggling to buy clothes. Instead of dumping it, maybe have a free day.

Sharmaine Marie

Maybe they need it. I think there’s a free section for clothes at the Salvation Army.

Shazzy Wetere

The Op Shops have overheads like any business...Rent, insurance, rubbish, eftpos, manager wages, vehicle, phone, washing, power, health and safety, fire extinguisher checks, etc. Not a lot left some weeks to actually go to the charity that runs them.

Linda Mortimer

MJ Fraser Logging celebrates 50 years

Gold coin entry to the pools or take part in outdoor activities for the whole family, including bouncy castles, balloon twisting, music and more.

Pretty Crafty Market

Saturday 2 April, 10am

Richmond Town Hall

After a short break, Richmond’s biggest and best indoor craft market is back. Gold coin donation entry which goes to charity.

Willowbank Heritage Village Open Day

Saturday 2 April, 10am-3pm 79 Wakefield-Kohatu Highway

Step back in time and wander the village or browse the children’s suitcase market. $5 entry/$2 child.

Email:

to include your event here.

Congratulations Mike and team, well done. It was a pleasure working with you.

Vicki Rizzi

That’s a great milestone Mike Fraser, well done to the team!

Ben Douglas

Congratulations Mike and all the team at Fraser Logging.

Chris Bensemann

What a fantastic achievement guys!!

Denise Duncan

Flood drives Hawke’s Bay truckies south

This is awesome, well done Drummond Transport.

Janineand Graham

Welcome to beautiful Top of the South.

Christine Boal

Good to see these guys on the road.

Jill Roach

The filling of Waimea Dam has been delayed...

Bonovoree to Salisbury School

ROBYN PARKES

* Caution – language of the day is in quote marks. Thankfully this language is no longer tolerated.

In the early 1850s William McRae purchased a 100-acre property which fronted onto Salisbury Road in Richmond.

William was born in Scotland but moved to Ireland at age 20 with his wife Sarah and farmed a property he named Bonovoree where he became proficient in agriculture.

Four children were born to William and Sarah while in Ireland, William, George, Catherine, and Roderick.

In December of 1849 the family emigrated to New Zealand aboard the ship Lady Nugent, settling on the Richmond property which was also given the name Bonovoree.

The homestead was planted with an orchard, rose garden, herbaceous borders, trees and flower gardens.

William also purchased land in the Amuri which by 1864 comprised the Glens of Tekoa. While William’s home was Bonovoree, sons George and Roderick were managers of the North Canterbury estate.

When William died in 1867, Roderick returned to the family farm and later the brothers drew

up a deed which gave sole ownership of the Richmond property to Roderick and Glens of Tekoa to George. Roderick became a very successful farmer, owner of racehorses and stud stallions.

In 1903 Bonovoree was advertised for sale in three lots with lot 1 being 32 acres, lot 2 being the homestead and 12 acres and lot 3 being 25.5 acres, all will a frontage onto Salisbury Road.

The sale was held in July and lot 1 was purchased by Mr Henmen, lot 3 by Mr Eban and lot 2 was passed on.

Roderick continued to live at the

homestead until his death a year later in September 1904. After his death the Government acquired the estate for the purpose of using the house for ‘a home for idiots and imbecile boys’. Newspapers reported that the home was opened about 1906. Some of the children are ‘cripples’, some blind, some epileptic, some consumptive and no less than 16 either could not dress and feed themselves or struggled to do so. Their ages ranged from five to 16 years.

Back in 1912 an annual report of the Education

Department saw questions being asked about the method of dealing with the accommodation of children with ‘mental deficiencies’.

A suggestion was to reserve the school at Otekaike for boys only and use the home at Richmond for girls, which meant the boys living in the home at this time would be moved.

By August 1916 it was confirmed that the Education Department’s

‘Home for Defectives’ would be renamed ‘Richmond Special School for Feeble Minded Girls’, and that 50 girls were arriving from all parts of the country. Two large dormitory buildings were built to accommodate them. In the same year, a number of elderly had been relocated to the home after their establishment (Alexander Home) in Nelson was burned down.

It was intended that they be housed in the new part of the buildings at the school for six months, but due to an error the time was only meant to be 6 weeks. As the property began a new phase in its life it meant relocating the older ‘inmates’. The name of ‘Special School for Feeble Minded Girls’ was thankful dropped and the school became known as Salisbury School. By 1951, the school had a roll of around 65 and a boarding and teaching staff of 19. Despite the threat of closure a number of years ago, the school continues to provide a service that makes a difference for girls. The property continues to provide refuge for children, with a new chapter beginning as Maitai School moves onto the site.

Is

Proudly brought to you by...

Bonovoree homestead. Photo: Supplied.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE ‘THE ROAR’ AND GAME BIRD SEASON

If you’re a firearms licence holder, you’ll need to know about changes to the storage and transport rules for firearms and ammunition, and changes to the seven rules of firearms safety. Regulations were updated in February 2022, and to help Kiwis make sense of those changes, Te Tari Pūreke, the new firearms regulator, published a Secure Storage and Transport Guide. You can download a copy of the Secure Storage and Transport Guide from www.firearmssafetyauthority.govt.nz/firearms-safety

STORAGE AND TRANSPORT FOR FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION, KEY POINTS

AMMUNITION

ALL AMMUNITION MUST NOW BE STORED IN A LOCKED CONTAINER. YOU CAN NOW ONLY STORE AMMUNITION WITH FIREARMS IN A GUN SAFE THAT HAS A SEPARATE LOCKABLE COMPARTMENT THAT HAS A DIFFERENT KEY THAN THE KEY FOR THE GUN SAFE. YOU MUST KEEP THESE KEYS SEPARATE. AND REMEMBER TO KEEP THOSE KEYS IN DIFFERENT PLACES, NOT ON THE SAME KEY RING OR HOOK.

If your safe doesn’t have a separate lockable compartment, you need to store ammunition in its own secure storage container with a key, combination, or padlock, or in a stout locked cupboard.

TRANSPORTATION

If you’re driving to a hunting location, your firearm needs to be inoperable during your travel and, ideally, concealed from view. This means removing the bolt or an essential part (or if that’s not possible, applying a trigger or cable lock), or transporting the firearm in a locked carry case. The ammunition needs to be separately and securely stored in a locked glove box or similar storage area, if practical. And please, whatever you do, once you’ve finished using your firearm, lock it away. Never leave any firearms in your ute, shed, home or vehicle unsecured at any time. The only exceptions to the firearms and ammunition transport rules are if you’re using the firearm on a farm for farm-related activities, or you’re doing legally-authorised hunting or pest control (such as a regional council employed pest controller) and the licence holder is in the vehicle or the immediately vicinity of the vehicle with the firearms in it. Make sure you read or download a free copy of the storage and transport guide to keep up to date with the details of the changes: www. firearmssafetyauthority.govt.nz/firearms-safety/storage-transportation

FIREARMS LICENCES ONLINE

TAKING A BREAK WHEN YOU’RE TRAVELLING WITH FIREARMS

For those who travel with firearms to hunt locations, your inoperable and secured firearm can be left in your vehicle unattended, for example during a break in a journey, for up to 60 minutes. But you need to lock your vehicle and stay within the immediate area or vicinity of the vehicle and meet other conditions. Read the storage and transport guide for full details: www.firearmssafetyauthority.govt.nz/firearms-safety/ storage-transportation. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES CAN FIREARMS, AMMUNITION OR OTHER ARMS ITEMS BE LEFT IN A VEHICLE OVERNIGHT.

THE SEVEN RULES OF FIREARM SAFETY HAVE CHANGED.

Get ahead of the changes to firearms safety rules with the Firearms Safety Code. Buy the book from www.firearmssafetyauthority. govt.nz/firearms-safety and have it shipped to your door or download a PDF copy for free.

TE TARI PŪREKE AND THE FIREARMS REGISTRY

Te Tari Pūreke – Firearms Safety Authority is responsible for managing firearms in New Zealand. We want to enable the legitimate use of firearms for feeding our whanau, conservation, farming and recreation while keeping our communities safe. This involves making sure firearms licence holders are fit and proper to possess firearms and are meeting the obligations of their licence.

New Zealand will have a firearms registry from 24 June 2023. The Registry is one of the ways Te Tari Pūreke is strengthening how firearms are managed in New Zealand.

THERE WILL BE NO CHARGE TO REGISTERING YOUR FIREARMS.

The new Registry will record how many firearms there are, and who has possession of them. This will allow for more effective firearms regulation, provide better support to licence holders, and support Police in keeping our communities safe.

Te Tari Pūreke will provide more details about the Registry and what it means for licence holders when the Registry Regulations are published. This is expected to be in late April/May 2023.

Apply for a firearms licence and update your contact details online using MyFirearms: a secure, online portal available at www.firearmssafetyauthority.govt.nz For more information on Te Tari Pūreke and any legislative or regulation changes that may affect you, go to www.firearmssafetyauthority.govt.nz

Calmer seas and smooth sailing ahead for one of Nelson's most iconic buildings

Built in 1906, The Boathouse has weathered many a storm for well over a century, but none so impactful as the one on February 1, 2018.

Having torn the iconic building apart, dedication, passion and tenacity have helped to bring The Boathouse back to her former glory. Now, receiving the final sign off on the last piece of work, we reflect on her history and celebrate the role she will continue to play in the future.

Beginning life as home to the Nelson Rowing Club, the building was sold in 1924 to the Iron Duke Sea Scout Troop. The combination of a bustling and active haven and regular Saturday night dances saw the venue enjoy many golden decades of being a hub for the community and the region’s go-to dance hall.

By 1986, the building was starting to show tell-tale signs of a relentless sea lapping at her hull and The Boathouse Society was formed. From 1994 the first restoration was completed, and The Boathouse as we know it was born.

In 2018 members of The Boathouse Society spearheaded the mammoth task of restoring the building and chair of the Boathouse Society, Annie Henry, says, without the staggering support of the wider community the much-loved

building would have been adrift. The massive rebuild involved every part of the building, and the Boat Storage area and new balustrade were the final pieces to be completed, in November 2022.

“The tears were seen at the start of the restoration and again when the project was completed. Ali Howard in particular was a constant rock for all of us. She worked quietly behind the scenes, keeping things ticking along.”

Another integral member of the club, Thorkild Hansen, and his family, have long been affiliated with The Boathouse. As a strong ambassador, Annie says Thorkild’s presence is still felt in

the building.

“Thorkild was always willing to do the hard work, from the handrails and the floor patterns to creating the tabletops that now sit in the café. He also designed the Boat Storage area.”

Boasting over 300 members within her walls there has been many a friendship formed, a true love met, a yearning for the sea ignited, and a special event

celebrated, but moving ahead, the future of The Boathouse looks bright as the team look forward to offering the public an experience to remember when they step upon her floorboards. “We welcome people to our café, and to book The Boathouse for their special event, and we always embrace new members into the fold.”

“We’ve navigated some tricky years,” says Olivia Alden, manager of The Boathouse, “but it finally feels like The Boathouse is having the summer we’ve been waiting for, and our team have put in such a strong effort. The cherry on top is seeing how much enjoyment and use our members are getting out of a fully-functioning boat storage building – thanks to some serious work from Annie, Ali Annie, Malcolm Anderson and all our members who volunteered their time and skills to make it happen.”

ALES OF THE UNEXPECTED BREWED IN MOTUEKA

Nelson Suburbs play their first home game of the season this Sunday 2 April at noon against Cashmere Technical. See the Suburbs advertisement on this page for all details of our home games. The team will be coached by Neil Connell and Ryan Stewart alongside GK coach Andy Gallagher and Manager Johnny Green.

There are several new faces in the squad this year with a mix of young local talent, including NBS Nelson Suburbs FC Academy players Liam Goodger and Connor Goody. Local lads Alex Ward, Matt Wesney and Ethan Turner have joined. Alex Ridsdale has returned to the squad and Sam Shelling has returned from Christchurch.

We welcome Gils Gomez Henry Aitken (Dunedin and Seb Hickman (Mosgiel). The club are delighted the talents of Lennon Dylan Henderson from Connor Gillespie due Returning local players Ayers, Jack Carter, Josh Lucas Hogg, Aled Howell, Ross McPhie, Josh Moffat, William Tucker, Corey Jordan Yong. Missing from the 2022 Joshua Booth, Hamish Aiden Higgs, Paddy McGookin, La Bu Pan, Ed Sillars, Lois Thomas, and Jamane Wilson.

The early days

It’s the dead of night in 1923, and a train has just pulled to an unexpected stop alongside a paddock in the small settlement of Tui just outside of Nelson. A barrel is kicked off, and with no witnesses, the train lurches back to life onwards to its final destination with none the wiser to the discreet delivery.

That fateful evening 100 years ago set off a series of events leading to the formation of what many call the richest trophy in New Zealand, the Kaka Shield.

The next morning, as people filtered into the grounds for what was billed as the start of an exciting cross-settlement rugby rivalry between Sherry and Tui, the evidence was rolled back up the step embankment, and after a lot of grunting and swearing was cracked open to show a casket filled with 18 gallons of beer.

That first game, won by Tui 5-3, was the start of a long history that has twisted and

turned but never lost its identity. There was passion on and off the field, with eager supporters who were just as likely to get in on the rivalry themselves, with one early year remembered for the free-for-all that kicked off between the women.

It was a different scene on the field, with the Kaka (pronounced Ko-ko) Shield always played in high spirits and good cheer. When players appear injured, the designated on-site medics would rush out an emergency kit consisting of a cup and a bucket of beer, a tradition that continues to this day.

There’s always an abnormal number of ‘injuries’, with players all given the same high level of care and treatment.

The history comes from Jack Oldham, who played in that original game 100 years ago and wrote down his memories over eight decades later.

He recalls the evolution of the Kaka Shield, which was originally a kerosine tin that had been engraved with a hammer and nail on an old piece of wood after a night of beers on the eve of the first game.

“During the more serious business of the disposing of the keg, a return match was

arranged to be played at Sherry. This time Sherry turned out to be the winners, and the shield changed hands.”

The shield was upgraded over time, with each winner in the early years inscribing a gold sovereign or half-sovereign that made the shield’s value worth thousands of dollars. Despite its apparent wealth, the Kaka Shield is invaluable to the people who have played and contributed throughout its 100-year history.

With the game played in good humour, it’s become tradition that the referee would make sure the visiting team came away with the victory, with the losers designated the job of organising food and refreshments.

Throughout the years as the populations of the small settlements shrank, the Kaka Shield fell on hard times, especially with the outbreak of the war, with the game not being held until all the men returned from service.

To keep the legacy alive, the game would morph into a contest between the Waimea College Old Boys and Tapawera that still exists to this day.

From playing in the paddocks of Tui to where the game stands today, there have been countless people who have been instrumental in continuing the legacy of the Kaka Shield.

What had originally started as a challenge between the lime workers from Tui and railway workers from Sherry Valley is now an entrenched part of the local rugby community and its history.

Tapawera late 1940’s

Family histories intertwine with the Shield

Throughout its rich history, countless stewards have kept the tradition alive to a place where it thrives today.

Without some of them, it would have almost certainly plunged into obscurity.

Dave Walker took up the helm four decades ago, taking over the

bookwork when the “old fellas got too old”.

He says the Kaka Shield nearly collapsed in the late 50s after the war, and they had to turn it around.

“If I hadn’t been forceful, it would have died.

“I went to my first game just after

the 50th (anniversary)... I never thought I’d get to 100 years.”

He and Brent Hodgkinson were instrumental in keeping the Shield alive, acting as representatives of either side.

“It’s really been me keeping it going. I’d give Brent a date, and he’d sort the Tapawera side,” says Dave.

“I guess where there’s a need, you take it up,” says Brent.

“It’s part of the history of this district, not just for Tapawera.”

Brent says numbers got dangerously low, particularly about 10-to-15 years ago, before they rebounded.

Tony Greep, who has refereed the game since the 1980s, remembers years when players swapped jerseys to make up numbers and still had less than a 15-aside game.

“We’ve gone from 20 years ago when the numbers dwindled to, in recent years, we’ve

got reserves.”

The game was being played in a serious tone and wasn’t thriving, so it was decided that the game would have a more fun atmosphere. Anyone under 35 years old has to wear to even the playing field in one of the quirks of the Kaka Shield that make it so unique.

There’s also no kicking, lineouts are taken with players on their knees, and more recently, a yellow card sends you to the sideline for a beverage, while a red card requires two drinks to cool off.

“Often it’s for something frivolous like someone taking a kick on purpose,” says Tony. He says it was Brent and Dave, alongside Bill Strawbridge and Peter Fenemor, who were instrumental in keeping it going.

“Those four kept it going, year in and year out.

“There’s something unique that’s kept this going.”

Brent says it was a no-brainer

when he decided to take up the mantle and keep the Kaka Shield alive.

“If you don’t, it’s gone, and you will never see it again.

“It’s great that it survived. The Shield is so unique. There’s nothing like it and a lot of those early competitions have faded away.”

For Stanley Friend, whose dad played in the original 1923 game and was involved in organising right through to the 1960s, the game was just another chance to lace up his boots and play a game of rugby. He played in the 50s and 60s for Tapawera before moving to town and joining Waimea Old Boys Rugby Club, changing allegiances. His memories of the Kaka Shield aren’t as vivid as they once were, but he still remembers the game they played on a field in Rakau at Jack Oldham’s place.

“I’ve always remembered it had a ditch in it, right down the middle.”

There’s a strong family history

On the first of April, what is considered by many to be the most expensive trophy in New Zealand rugby goes on the line for its 100-year anniversary.

for a lot of the men who are most involved in the Kaka Shield, with the Walker family having three generations on the field this weekend. Dave’s son Kerry has stepped up to the plate as a committee member and his children are running the refreshments on the sideline for the players. Kerry’s involvement spans as long as he can remember, standing on the sidelines before stripping up as a player when he came of age. “I carried on playing in gumboots for ages,” he says.

“Those gumboots are brutal,” chimes in Dave.

Tony Green also has a rich family history with the game, his father George was the man who found the shield in his cupboard after returning from the war when everyone thought it had been lost. It was also Tony’s grandfather’s business where the wood for the shield is understood to originate from, repurposing an old

wooden washtub. Tony says he isn’t sure what his grandfather’s involvement in the game was, with records of players in the early games lost to time. Kerry says the Kaka Shield has become like a family, with the game a highlight on the calendar of everyone involved.

“It’s probably the same core of guys. For some of us, it’s the only time we see each other.”

He says he’s just as passionate to keep the spirit of the Kaka Shield alive for years and decades to come as the men before him have done. For the trio of Dave, Tony and Brent, this year will be their last year of full involvement with the Kaka Shield. They have given decades of their lives to continuing the tradition and now they say it’s time for the next generation to take charge.

“I don’t think I’ll be there for the next hundred, new guys have taken it up, and I’m quite happy

to sit back on the sidelines,” says Brent.

“I said I’d carry through to the century and Kerry is stepping up

to keep it continuing,” says Dave.

“I think they’ve seen my face for too long.”

Tony says he’s held out for the

last couple of years, but the time has come.

“You have to hand it over at some stage.”

TASMAN DISTRICT COUNCIL’S

ANNUAL PLAN 2023/2024

Every year we must prepare an Annual Plan which considers our budgets for the upcoming financial year. Our plans for the 2023/2024 year were mapped out in Tasman’s 10-Year Plan 2021 – 2031 which we completed in mid-2021. However, since that time there have been significant changes affecting our operations.

• Inflation has increased significantly.

• Interest rates are considerably higher.

• The current labour shortage is affecting us.

• Our depreciation bill has increased substantially.

We’ve had to make some tough choices. Do you agree with the choices we’ve made? We rely on your feedback to form the final plan so please tell us what you think. The Consultation Document which outlines our proposed changes is available online at shape.tasman.govt.nz or at Council service centres and libraries.

Gomez (Uruguay) (Dunedin City Royals) (Mosgiel).

delighted to have acquired Lennon Whewell and from the UK with due to arrive early April. players include Sam Josh Cresswell, Howell, Corey Larsen, Moffat, Ben Polak, Corey Wilson and

2022 squad are: Hamish Cadigan, Keys, Jamie Pan, Noah Platt, Thomas, Scott Wallace

Co-Coach Ryan Stewart said “We are excited to start another season in the Southern Football League with a good squad of experienced players and exiting youth players.

We’re looking forward to seeing everyone on Saturday 1st April at noon for our women’s Premier League team game vs Nomads United and then the men’s game on Sunday 2nd April.

A huge thanks goes to our Principle Sponsor - Graco and to our Gold Sponsors Mac’s Beer, Hardy’s Bar and TAB - Nelson, Lotto Sport NZ as well as Bowater Toyota, McDonalds (Nelson) NZME, Peter Ray Homes and the Copy Press. We also thank all our other club sponsors for their support.

It’s grow time at Brightwater School

JO KENT

The students at Brightwater School have each been given a seedling plant to take home and grow before transplanting to Snowden’s Bush in July.

Principal Glenda Earle says the school is excited to continue their relationship with Snowden’s Bush again this year.

“Snowden’s Bush is a local resource that is important to our community. The students enjoy visiting the reserve outside of school time to see how their previously planted trees are growing.”

The Friends of Snowden’s Bush group have provided a range of native plants for the children to pot up and nurture until time for planting in late autumn.

“Last week all of the children selected a plant to pot up and they had fun learning about how to care for them,” Glenda says.

Friends of Snowden’s Bush arose from the Nelson Tasman Climate Forum’s ‘Looking After Nature / Ecosystems and Biodiversity’ group.

Team leader Alison Pickford says it’s their aim to try and protect - or at least cushion - the forest (which includes ancient totara and matai trees) from the increasing effects of climate change.

“Due to human activity, the water table has lowered and very little water from the aqui-

fer and other sources is available for the trees. This is exacerbated by the noticeable increase in average temperatures and prolonged dry spells.

“Because education is included in the Climate Forum aims, we approached Brightwater School and Pinegrove Kindergarten to ask if they would like to pot up, care for and plant trees as part of their programme and to assist us in caring for the forest.”

The group are also hoping to foster some community involvement for caring for the reserve and have set up a Friends of Snowden’s Bush Facebook page for those interested in helping out.

“We look forward to comparing the plants the students will plant in July alongside those they planted last year,” Alison says.

Parker and Eva proudly show off their plants. Photo: Supplied.

In one week a team of amazing wahine have turned around an old business space in Tapawera to launch their new, not-for-profit, community venture, Purpose HQ Café. Created for the community, by the community, Cherie Tirikatene, Karen Jones, Renee MacDonald and Sharlene Jukes and their whanau have spent countless hours refurbishing, painting, and pushing forward to open their doors on March 25. “It's been a rough process,” says Cherie, “but we are open!”

Purpose HQ Fitness Trust is a small community trust that has been running several local initiatives for health and well-being for the community since 2019, beginning with the community gym. Offering fitness services from a small community space including a healer's initiative and aid relief, the impactful team clearly have the community at the forefront of their minds. The new cafe is located next to their gym in the town village, and Cherie and the team look forward to offering consistently great coffee and tasty kai to the masses, along with a healthy dose of friendly

faces. “We will initially have tasty homemade cafe delights on offer, including baking, slices, and muffins, delicious coffee, milkshakes and thick shakes, and will be the South Island's only suppliers and distributors of kiwi-made ‘Luva-Pie’. We also look forward to introducing protein shakes and other exciting items in the near future.”

If it wasn’t for the hard work and dedication of their team, and the wider community, Cherie says they would never have achieved the amazing feat. “These women are all phenomenally dedicated.”

Renee is the sports co-ordinator at Tapawera Area School, and a personal trainer at Purpose HQ Gym, Karen is the programme administrator at Whakatu Girls Rugby Trust, has her own bookkeeping business and is the mother of a rep rugby player for the Tasman Mako, Sharlene is the treasurer and secretary of the trust and has been with it since its inception and will be utilising her 12 plus years in the hospitality industry to manage the kitchen.. Cherie is CEO of cooperative community development

programme SEED NZ, and her own daughter, Luci, has made the move from Wellington to take up the role of Front of House Cafe manager.

The Open Day began with a Whakataukī and karakia by Whaea Anne Davey, kaumātua of Puurerehua and Mumma to Tapawera Area School’s Whaea Denise Primary Syndicate Yr 0-6 Leader attendees were treated to delectable samples of what will be on offer at the cafe and provided an opportunity for the community to pop in for a chat. “As a trust we have been overwhelmed by the messages and kōrero of encouragement and pride to tautoko what we have achieved.

The amazing wahine who have set up Purpose HQ Cafe, from left: Renee MacDonald, Sharlene Jukes, Karen Jones and Cherie Tirikatene. Photo: Supplied

Wolves’ heroic win

losses against ACOB and then to get bowled out by Nelson College for 50-odd.

For the boys to turn it around and put in that dominant performance is an awesome testament to the character of the squad. “We just managed to stay in the fight and take our chances.”

It was a dominant bowling performance by the Wolves on their home ground at Brightwater Domain, with Joe O’Connor picking up a five-wicket haul from his 9.2 overs, with two wicket maidens.

Josh Newport chipped in with three wickets of his own, while Sean picked up one in his first over before his injury.

“Bowling is our strength,” says Sean.

“Between Hayden Ingham, Josh Newport, Joey O’Connor and Alex Brogan, that could be a Hawke Cup bowling line-up.” The bowling performance saw

YOUR MAHI

the Wolves restrict ACOB to just 117 from their turn with the bat, finishing their innings in the 33rd over.

Despite handy knocks from the Restieaux brothers, with Finn picking up 15 and Ronan 30 as

they put on a 36-run partnership, it wasn’t enough from ACOB.

“At some points, it looked like, if these boys bat 20 overs, it might be a different story,” says Sean. He congratulated ACOB on their season, saying it must sting to

Volleyball

come runners-up three times but it is an impressive showing nonetheless.

“The way the team works, they’re down four-or-five uni players at the start and the end of the season. . .it’s just a testament to their

The Volleyball New Zealand secondary school champs kick off this week with teams from around the region in the mix. Waimea College and Nayland College have their senior A boy’s and girl’s teams in the top division, while Nelson College and Nelson College for Girls have their senior A team in the first division as well.

Basketball

ALLIANCE – SEASONAL TEAM MEMBERS

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

Ngā painga - what’s in it for you?

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

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

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

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

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

• Up to 7 months of full-time seasonal employment

• Upskill yourself with an opportunity to gain NZQA qualifications

• Receive ongoing training and support

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

• Access to our free employee assistance programme

Ō pūkenga - about you

• You are eligible to work in New Zealand

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

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

• You enjoy working within a team environment

• You are physically fit, committed, and reliable

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

Three Waimea College students have been selected for Basketball New Zealand training

strength as a team.”

ACOB captain Ollie Jones-Allen says they just didn’t get enough runs on the board to defend.

“It was the same story, really. We couldn’t accumulate runs because we lost wickets at the top.

“Two finals is great, it proves we are there or thereabouts. It’s just unfortunate you can’t win one.”

He says the result was down to the standout performances of the Wolves players, with Joe and Sean outclassing them on the day.

“Sean carrying that serious injury, he showed a massive amount of heart.”

The game was also ACOB opening bowler Reuben Smith’s last time stripping up for the club in the premier grade. He will hang up the boots after this season, with Ollie saying it will be a massive loss to the team.

“Reuben is an absolute Trojan for us. He’s opened the bowling and put in countless overs for so long, and we’ll really miss him.”

camps in April. Will Blight and Jonty Bond were selected as part of the U17 camp, while Hayden Jones was selected for the U16 camp. The camps follow on from regional trials, where coaching staff evaluated the age group talent available for the upcoming U17 and U19 World Cup cycles.

Kartsport

Entries are now open for Kart Sport Nelson’s 2023 Land Dimensions Ferris Trophy Night Meeting on April 22, with racing from 1:30pm.

It has taken 40 years, but this year Murchison Area School are the Top of the South Area Schools’ Tournament champions. Twenty students represented the school across 22 activities in what principal Andy Ashworth described as a gruelling, but exciting week of competition. He says the combination of great teamwork, spirit and determination brought the team success. It followed four months of training and had been a school goal for the past seven years. Ten students from the school have been selected to trial for a national tournament which includes volleyball, basketball, rugby, football and Ki o rahi. Photo: Supplied.

Wolves teammates Brady Barnett, Sean Neal and Kyle Paki Paki celebrate the team’s heroic win on Saturday. Photo: Chris Symes/Shuttersport.

GAINS:

Joel Lauvale (Kelston Boys)

Von Richardson (Canada)

Jeff Lepa (Injury)

Codey Grimes (Kaiapoi)

Tony Sproul (Waimea College)

Karl Palmer (Waimea College)

LOSSES:

Eden Beech (Perth)

Max Fraine (UK)

Dan Hytongue (retirement)

ONES TO WATCH:

Sio Latu a very promising, big and strong, young talent. Jayde Palmer back from injury with a spring in

his step will be an attacking weapon. Paulo Ma’ afu will be the man to get over the advantage line.

VERDICT:

After a tough season last year with injuries and Covid-19, Waimea will be looking to bounce back with a few personal changes. With a young, exciting, talented side, they will be dangerous with possession, with how well they gel as a unit key to their success this year. With the strong Waimea “never say die” attitude never count them out of being amongst it come the business end of the competition.

Waimea Old Boys will be looking to contest in 2023.

FOUNDED: 1896 | HOME GROUND: Jubilee Park

COACH: Scott McKenzie, Asst. Coaches Kaide Whiting, Leith Brunning | CAPTAIN: TBC

COACH:

GAINS:

Sakaria Taulafo (France and USA)

Isaiah Malaulau (returning to the club)

Bradley Burton (North Harbour)

Caleb Luxon (Rangiora HS)

Gus Taliaivao (Auckland)

Ben Lefale (Marist)

Halatuituia Ma’u (Tongan U20)

Bogitini Tuimereke (Rarotonga)

Matt Lowe (NCB)

Ioane Moorea (West Coast)

Nelesoni Malaulau (NCB)

Fletcher Hewitt-Smart (NCB)

Mata Tubuna Nasilivata (Rarotonga)

LOSSES:

Ayden Kapi (Rarotonga)

Connor Higgins (Shute Shield)

Patrick Miller-Leef (Australia)

Cooper Grant (Marist)

Neo Milligan (Auckland)

ONES TO WATCH:

Kershawl Martin-Sykes and Mataroa Maui will co-captain this season and both will add a different style to leadership through their on-field actions.

Tahquinn Hansen takes a bigger leadership role in the pack and

will drive the forwards.

Sakaria Taulafo’s experience will add tons of value to our pasifika base players. Ioane Moorea impresses so far with his skill set and leadership.

Malaulau brothers both to make a big impact on club rugby, two very different but very skilled players.

Fletcher Hewitt-Smart has an excitement about him and plenty of energy that is infectious.

VERDICT:

It was a bit of a season to forget for Nelson last season as they struggled with numbers, but with some exciting new faces in the mix they will be ones to watch out for as a competition black horse. Having lost their captain from last year, it will be interesting to see how the team responds to new leadership. With a number of Nelson College Old Boys and some experienced hats back in the mix, they will be a force to be reckoned with this year, right the way through the team. Coached again by Gary Stevens, he says they still have a number of other players yet to arrive as they look to consolidate and grow their identity for years to come.

FOUNDED: 1868 | HOME GROUND: Neale Park

Gary Stevens | CO-CAPTAINS: Kershawl Martin-Sykes & Mataroa Maui | NAMING SPONSOR: Galbraiths

With a squad including new and returning players, Nelson will look to bounce back from a disappointing 2022 season.

GAINS:

FOUNDED:

COACHES: Joe Kirker, Antonio Shalfoon, Ethan Temaari-Singh | CAPTAIN:

Finlay Harris (Sunshine Coast Grammer School)

Dougal McLeod (Sunshine Coast Grammer School)

Devante Meredeth (Nelson Boys)

Tayne Hemopo (Nelson Boys)

Nick Worthington (North Harbour)

LOSSES:

Seb Siataga (Australia)

Kilipati Lea (Hong Kong)

Jack Grooby (Australia)

Fergus Hughes (Ireland)

COACHING STAFF:

Joe Kirker

Antonio Shalfoon

Ethan Temaari-Singh

ONES TO WATCH:

It will be exciting to see how the boys straight out of high school, like Tayne Hemopo and the untested talent from the Sunshine Coast, go at making the step up to Senior Rugby. They have been extremely enthusiastic and open to learning throughout preseason. With Taine Robinson captaining from the back at 15, they will be looking for strong leadership with a young team as they fight for another title. With some strong results last season, they will be ones to watch with finals ambitions as the Stoke faithful get behind their team for another crack at Tasman Trophy glory.

1947 | HOME GROUND: Greenmeadows

Taine Robinson | NAMING SPONSOR: Freeman Roofing

Stoke look to break a 5 year title drought in 2023, having won their last title (Nelson Bays Sub-Union) in 2018.

2023 CLUB RUGBY

GAINS:

Timoci Sauira (Nelson College), Cooper Grant (Nelson Club).

LOSSES:

Jayden Waharoa (Australia), Nik Vikena (Australia).

ONES TO WATCH:

Tom Thornalley returning from injury. Simione Ofa at the back of the scrum. The front row of Jake Wetere, Dylan Irvine and Teu Sami. Cooper Grant teaming up with the Sauira brothers Nic and Timi.

VERDICT:

Marist came into last year as favourites and returning champions but weren’t able to fire down the stretch and earn themselves a finals spot. They will be hungry to get their names back in the top rung of the leaderboard this season, and with a new coach in Seta Sauira at the helm they have the makings to go all the way. With a big forward pack, they’ll be eager to use their size to their advantage this season and give their new backline a chance to showcase their skills with some space. Prop Jake Wetere steps into the role as captain, with some experience through last year leading the team. With a wealth of experience and a squad that has remained largely unchanged from last year, they’ll be looking to continue refining their combinations and showcasing that Marist green pride.

FOUNDED: 1945 | HOME GROUND: Tahunanui Field

HEAD COACH: Seta Sauira | CAPTAIN: Jack Wetere | NAMING SPONSOR: New Street Steakhouse

After coming up agonisingly short in the Tasman Trophy semi-final last year, Marist will be looking to bounce back in 2023.

A golden ticket to San Francisco

JACK MALCOLM

With a place in the international finals in San Francisco on the line, it all came down to the final race for local sailor Noah Malpot. His nearest competitor was nipping at his heels, and it was winner-takeall as they set off for the final time in the Sail GP Inspire Programme after a week of racing and coaching.

While the pair were deep in the fleet and out of contention for the race win, 17-year-old Noah says he knew it was a two horse race to the finish line for the overall title.

“We were racing our own race.”

“I was one point ahead but that doesn’t mean anything. If he beat me, he wins on countback.”

Having been crowned the national champion in December, Noah says he was

confident in his chances coming into the Sail GP scene.

“That was my goal, to get my ticket to San Fran.” Sail GP is an international sailing competition formed in 2019 that races in F50 foiling catamarans similar to America’s Cup boats, with teams representing their country. The series travels around the world, with a Grand Prix stop in Christchurch earlier this month that saw the best sailors from around the world competing. At each stop the Inspire Programme runs races, with the top boy and girl invited to San Francisco to race in their grand final.

Alongside the racing, the Inspire Programme also saw the best wingfoilers from around the country competing in surf freestyle and slalom freefly, with local brothers Callum and Thomas Rob-

ertson showing off their skills.

Calum finished 13th, having made the minor finals, while younger brother Thomas finished with a ranking of 18th. Alongside racing, the young sailors complete coaching, technical tours and meeting the athletes involved.

Noah says it was exciting to be around like-minded athletes, with not a lot of WASZP sailors in Nelson. Because of that, he’s left to train predominately by himself as he works to refine his race starts before heading to San Francisco.

“In WASZP, you have to hit the line at full speed. . . I’ve also been working on my boat handling.” WASZP boats are single-handed hydrofoiling boats that are uniform in design, creating an even playing field for budding racers to showcase their skill.

Wild weather whips up swimmers in final race

PETER GIBBS

The Rylock swim series ended on a resounding note with race 18 earlier in March.

First they had to deal with a violent downpour in the minutes before racing started, then a strong wind, which increased in intensity as swimmers set off from the yacht club heading towards Haulashore island.

It was a strange end to the season, although in keeping with the unusual weather events we’re seeing a lot of lately.

While swim series elsewhere in the country have suffered frequent cancellations this summer, Nelson escaped unscathed for 16 consecutive weeks from November.

That all changed for race 17 the week before, when rough seas caused a cancellation during a month when Nelson usually experiences the calmest of weather.

The forecast wasn’t good leading up to this week’s swim, but pre-race conditions were quite manageable.

It all changed after the hooter went off and the wind picked up as if it was summoned. Over the next 20 minutes, five swimmers were pulled from the sea by the support boats.

Yachties were enjoying the night too, with quite a fleet whizzing around the harbour, to the trepidation of those watching the combination of boats and swimmers from the shore.

For most of the field it was a highly-charged and exciting swim in the tough conditions, with many whooping and laughing as they made it to the finish.

The overall and age group positions for the season are taken from each swimmer’s best 11 results and the medallists had nearly all been found prior to last week, so there was little riding on the final swim.

Overall male winners Hayden Squance and Harrison Dean stayed away, leaving Terry Bone to win his second race of the season and take third place in the overall

competition. Terry was also a clear winner in M50-59 with a maximum 110 points.

Lilly Claridge came in fourth overall on Thursday, notching a clear win over Sophie Pahl and giving her a perfect score for the season with 11 wins to secure the women’s title from Emily Chadderton and Keshia Linyard.

Finn Bryant had already clinched the men’s non-wetsuit title from Steve Malthus and Finn’s father Steve, so he chose to pull on a wetsuit for the final race, lifting his finish position on Thursday to third, behind Connor Eden.

Jude Vincent finished with a perfect 110 points in the women’s non-wetsuit competition, heading off Megan Begg and Kylie Chebahtah for season honours.

On every night of the season, as well as the main race of around 1500m, there’s a short option of about 600m.

This distance doesn’t have an overall winner, but recognises the best under-16 and open division swimmers in both male and female cate-

gories.

If there had been an overall champion it would be Nia Linyard, who has gone through the season almost unbeaten.

Burglars Lucas Bell and Christina Harris decided they had nothing more to gain from the longer race on Thursday, so they dropped down to the short option, heading home Nia in the rough seas.

Other season winners in the short series were Monty Chadderton (U-16 male), Tony Munnerly (open men) and Georgina Pahl (open women).

Jonathan Cresswell and Keisha Old were the best non-wetsuit swimmers on the short race series over the season. A noticeable feature of this year’s season has been the lower numbers racing, with the average of 112 swimmers, the lowest since 2008.

This doesn’t mean the number of people swimming long distances in the sea has got less.

Noah Malpot was on top form to secure a spot in the final leg of the Sail GP Inspire Programme in San Francisco. Photo: Felix Diemer for SailGP.

Terry Bone snatched the opportunity with the two top swimmers, Hayden Squance and Harrison Dean, not racing in the final instalment of the Rylock swim series to secure himself third place. Photo (file): Tom Young.

Taking his game to the global stage

JACK MALCOLM

The wait is unbearable for Alfie Linn as he counts down the days until he flies out to France to compete at the Virtus Global Games in June.

Having been selected for the New Zealand team for table tennis, he is eager to test his skills against the best players from around the world in the 11.2 (Significant Intellectual Impairment) division.

“It’s going to be fun, I’m excited,” says Alfie.

He decided to give the game a go after watching his big brother Jacob play on their table in the ga-

rage and they found out he was actually pretty good.

“He just watched and one day he decided to get a few hits,” says his mother Jane Linn.

Since that first game just over five years ago, Alfie has gone from strength to strength as his game improves.

The home set-up in the garage has also improved alongside his ability, with a serving robot that means he can play whenever he wants.

“I try and go on it everyday,” he says.

It’s not easy when you’re also a competitive swimmer who’s pre-

viously been selected as part of the Nelson swimming team for the Special Olympic nationals, a keen basketballer, an aspiring golfer and an MVP cricketer in the fourth grade.

Alfie also plays in the regular Thursday table tennis league and has been getting coaching in the leadup to the Virtus Global Games from Mark Nalder.

Mark, who has experience with coaches around the world, says they have been focusing on improving Alfie’s serve.

“The main thing is service and response after the serve to get in position.

“He’s come a fair way, we now have five-or-six different serve variations. . . I don’t think they’ve seen that in France.”

Mark says he came on board to coach Alfie about six months ago to help prepare him for the Virtus games.

Jane says it’s a very exciting prospect to have a competition where Aflie will play against people who are just like him.

While he holds his own against neuro-typical players, the way Alfie thinks about the game is completely different, she says.

The classifications have also been expanded to include more categories, unlike in the 2019 Virtus Games when Alfie was in the 11.1 division that was ‘Athletes with an intellectual disability’ but did not

include ‘significant additional impairment’.

Jane says the changes will suit Alfie’s playing style, with the 2019 games where he was also a flagbearer for the closing ceremony having some tough competition.

“You’ve got these big countries like China and Korea,” Jane says.“There’s so much money fed into it and here’s little old Alfie. “But that’s him. He wins over hearts and minds and he’s not too shabby (as a player).”

She says the way the club has welcomed him has been transformational to Alfie’s sporting journey. “There’s that sense of belonging and being part of a club in the mainstream. The inclusion in the mainstream and being part of the community is great.”

With a strong forehand finisher already in his arsenal, Alfie Linn has been refining his serve ahead of travelling to France for the Virtus Global Games. Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Community Notices

MONDAY

Elysium Widow and Widowers Group meet each Monday for coffee and friendship at Oxford St Cafe at 10am. New members

welcome. Phone Margaret 027 2600 748

Lighthouse Spiritual Awareness Centre. Mondays 7.30pm, Trafalgar St Hall. Expo Monday 27th March 7.15pm, Entry $5. Experience healings, readings etc. Ph Carolyn 5474613.

TUESDAY

NELSON 50+ WALKING GROUP Tuesday April 4. Tahuna Back Beach Trundle. Meet at 9.45am outside Tahuna Library. BYO lunch.

Phone Di on 027 4152363

Lunch on the Hill: Come for hot drinks from 11 am & lunch at noon on Tuesday 4 April 2023. 27 Dorset St, Richmond. (Koha)

Ph. (03)544 8844

Wellby Talking Café: 1.30pm – 3pm, Tuesday, 11th April 2023, Richmond Library, Richmond. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities, and services. www.wellby.org.nz 03 5467681

Nelson Philatelic Society Meeting Tuesday 11th April Doors

Open 6.30pm - Meeting Starts 7.00pm At Stoke Baptist Church.

Buy, Sell and Exchange Night Topic : Cleaning Stamps Mitchener Cup – “Weather” Contact Robin 0275442518

WELLBY Talking Café: 10am-11.30am, Tuesday 11th April 2023, Community Centre, Tapawera, Wakefield. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities, and services. www.wellby.org.nz 03 5467681.

Hope Indoor Bowling Club playing Tuesday Nights 7pm at Hope Hall Main Rd Hope. Everyone welcome. Soft soled shoes.. All bowls supplied. Great for families. Info Bill ph 5449273 STOKE INDOOR BOWLS CLUB 2023 season has started, Warnes Stadium, Songer Street, Stoke. New members welcome. Please wear flat soled shoes. Enquiries ph Lynn 547 7112.

NELSON CIVIC CHOIR rehearses 6.45-9.00pm Tuesdays at NCMA, Nile Street, Nelson. Preparing to perform Mozart’s Coronation Mass in May. No auditions. Call 021 102 4436.

Linedancing Beginners. Warnes Hall Songer St Stoke by vet clinic. TUESDAYS 8 .45. Free morning tea. Soft shoes. Just arrive or ph: 0274 491 569 Diane. We are a caring Community.

WEDNESDAY

Cake Decorators meet every third Wednesday of the Month. Creating the Japanese Cherry Blossom in flower paste. Contact Desiree 0276302359

Waimea Harriers Sharland Cycles 5k fun run & walk from Club Waimea Wednesday March 29th. Start time 6pm. Everyone and all abilities welcome. Last 5k in the Summer series. See website for details. Ph 0223729432.

COMMUNITY SING A LONG Wednesday 5 April 1.30 pm Stoke

Methodist Church lounge 94 Neale Ave. Afternoon Tea. Gold coin donation for Nelson Hospital Chaplaincy. All welcome.

Central garden club meets 2nd wednesday of each month

1.30pm at stoke methodist church hall, Neale Ave Stoke. Guest speakers and afternoon tea new members most welcome contact Lynn or bob 5418468

Nelson Newbies, coffee morning every Wednesday 10:3011.30 a.m. at Deville’s Cafe, 22 New St. Want to get out and meet people? Join us for coffee and chat. New people are always welcome. Ph: Clive 021 205 4731.

THURSDAY

Endometriosis Group invite you to a gentle Yoga class with Loren Thursday 30 March 7-8pm 16 Venice Place Stoke (note new venue) Gold Coin Donation Info Ph Helen 5441724 or nelsonsupport@nzendo.org.nz

Waimea Combined Friendship Group meet monthly at 9.45am on 3rd Thursday of month in Hope Church, Ranzau Road for Friendship, Fellowship & Learning. Contact Denise on 027 765

DEADLINE: MIDDAY FRIDAY - 30 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY -

PLEASE SEND TO: events@waimeaweekly.co.nz

000 or Rosalie on 027 249 1080.

TAICHI in Richmond: Thursdays 10am-12.00. Stillness, breath, movement. Quiet Heart Tai Chi, Holy Trinity Church, Dorset Street. Donation. Contact Merrick. Email; quiet.heart.tai.chi@gmail.com Ph 0210636620. All welcome

Nelson City Probus Club welcome both men & women. We meet 2nd Thursday each month (Feb-November) at 10 am, The Nelson Golf Club, 38 Bolt Rd, Tahunanui. Contact the Secretary on nelsoncitygroupgmail.com

RICHMOND WELCOME GROUP: Want to make new friends join a friendly group for coffee & a chat.10am on the 1st & 3rd Thursday of each month at Paragon Cafe Langdale Drive Richmond Ansley /Phillip 5410 350 0272212943.

Motueka Lighthouse Spiritual Awareness Group. Meet Thurs. 30 March, 7-9pm Motueka Community House. Decks Reserve, beside RedCross OpShop. Presentation on RenXue Qigong. Everyone welcome. $3 donation appreciated. Contact Angie angel3000.h@gmail.com

FRIDAY

Waitaki Old Girls’ Social Group Nelson. Pop in for a coffee and chat from 10am at Summerset Richmond Ranges Friday 31st March. All Oamaruians welcome. Queries 027 673 1145 NEW Richmond Mobility Scooter Club. Do you have a mobility scoooter or thinking of buying one? A new mobility scoooter club in Richmond is looking for members. We want to encourage friendship, education, & advocacy amoungst our Richmond mobility scoooter comunity. First meeting Friday 27 Jan. 10am at the Richmond Library. Mike Rodwell 027 486 9955.

Songbirds Ladies Choir New female singers welcome. Rehearsals Friday morning in Stoke. If you enjoy singing and can hold a tune, please give me a call. Ph Mary 5448232 or 0211334805

SATURDAY

Richmond Old Time Dance on April 1st, at Richmond Town Hall,

Cambridge st., Richmond, 7 30 to11 00 pm, Live Music, Raffles and Prizes. Special Alphabetical Programme. Entry $8 00 and Supper Plate please. Ph Richard 5444 120. Stoke Monthly Market, Methodist Church Grounds Saturday 1st April 9.00 am to noon. Phone 927 6130 to book site, Supporting Nelson Hospital Chaplaincy and Lifelinc.

RICHMOND TENNIS CLUB - Gladstone Road Social hit for members & non-members Saturday afternoons All levels of ability welcome. 1.30pm onwards. Contact 0274872480.

SUNDAY

HIGGINS HERITAGE PARK 222 Pigeon Valley Rd, WakefieldSunday 2nd April, steam-up, museum sheds open and traction engine, bus & jigger rides. A great place for a picnic 10am- 3pm www.higginsheritagepark.co.nz

Motueka Lighthouse Spiritual Awareness Group offering Spiritual/Energy Healing, by koha/donation. This Sunday 2nd April, 3.30-6.30pm at Motueka Community House, Decks Reserve next to RedCross OpShop. Everyone welcome. Contact Angie angel3000.h@gmail.com

Bring your apples and pears & press them for free at our next open day. 2nd April (10am - 3pm) Willow Bank Heritage Village, 79 Wakefield-Kohatu Highway, Wakefield Sunday Meditation – every Sunday 10am – 11.30am, plus free vegetarian lunch. All warmly welcome, for all ages and walks of life. Chandrakirti Meditation Centre. 289 Sunrise Valley Rd, Upper Moutere. 03 5432021

NELSON SPIRITUALIST CHURCH weekly service Sun. 7pm-8pm. CornerTipahi&MotuekaSts.

GENERAL GROUPS

Waimea MENZSHED - catering for the interests, health and well-being of men since 2010. The shed is open Monday - Friday at Richmond Park, 384 Lower Queen St. Inquiries: mens.shed. waimea@gmail.com 027 282 0185.

Senior Mobility Classes Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays from 10.30am at the Wanderers Community Gym 12 Charlotte Lane, Brightwater. $2 donation. Improving balance, mobility & independence among our aging populations (55+).Contact James Cooper for info: 021 044 1526.

Seeking volunteers to help support Nelson Hospital. For info visit www.nmdhb.govt.nz and search ‘volunteering with us’. A social opportunity for people to donate their time to a 3-4 hour shift during the week in a variety of roles. Supporting our patients, visitors, whānau & staff while receiving sense of purpose. Cake Decorators invite new members to join. You don’t need any skills. Come & learn how to work with fondant, sugar paste & chocolate. Creating flowers, figurines & covering a cake. Desiree 027 630 2359.

HELP NEEDED. WAKEFIELD COMMUNITY BUS Nelson Tasman Community Transport Trust dedicated to providing affordable community public transport in the areas where little is available. Contact: 020 4196 0553 Wakefield Bus is in need of some support – can you help? Contact - 020 4196 0553, marketing.ntctt@ gmail.com / www.ntctt.org TO BOOK A SEAT on the Wakefield buscall or txt 020 4195 8866.

NEED A BIKE? Bike Hub Nelson fixes up donated bikes & gives them away for a small koha. Mondays 5.30-7pm. Location & other opening times on www.facebook.com/BikeHubNelson, email BikeHubNelson@gmail.com

NELSON WOODTURNING CLUB. Join us at our clubrooms for Turning, camaraderie & sharing of knowledge. Ph or txt Allan for more information 021543345.

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

Community Notices are free to community groups, schools, churches, gold coin donation events and fundraising. Due to the popularity of this column,while every effort will be made, inclusion cannot be guaranteed for free ads. If you want to place a business advert or want to advertise a course you are running, please call classified ads and public notices on 544 9037.

Classifieds

CLASSIFIED DEADLINE - 5PM FRIDAY PH 544 9037

sales@waimeaweekly.co.nz

SITUATIONS VACANT

Facility Manager

Motueka Recreation Centre

Skilled and Trainee Machine Operators

Ready to work for a great employer with an even better team culture? Genia is currently looking for Machine Operators and Trainee Machine Operators. We create quality timber products for interior and exterior spaces.

You don’t need specific timber industry experience (although if you’ve got that, great), because we provide plenty of on-the-job training. What we ask is that you bring enthusiasm, commitment and an eagerness to learn. You might have come from a previous machinerelated industry, or have experience in horticulture, agriculture, or maintenance related work. Or maybe you’ve just got a technical mind and a bit of curiosity for basic troubleshooting – this will go a long way.

If you’re ambitious, Genia is the place for you. We offer development and training to help you achieve your goals and build skills, knowledge and capabilities.

Here at Genia, we take care of our employees too. There are plenty of additional perks, such as:

• A positive team culture – including sausage roll shouts, a peer recognition scheme for teammates to appreciate and thank each other, and quarterly meetings with lunch provided

• Staff discounts Monthly profit share scheme

• Service recognition programme

• Free firewood and rejects

• Additional support for employees going through difficult times

Cawthron Institute Trust Board - Trustee

The Trust Board comprises four statutory Trustees (Nelson Member of Parliament, Nelson City Council Mayor, Tasman District Council Mayor, and the Nelson Bishop), and six other Trustees to represent the ‘top of the south’ region. The Trust Board’s charitable purpose is to advance science for the benefit of Te Tauihu and Aotearoa New Zealand, with a focus on natural resources. The Trust Board approves the strategic direction of the Cawthron Institute, funds philanthropic/ community activities and appoints the Board of Directors. Cawthron Institute is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest independent science institute, based in Whakatū/ Nelson.

We are seeking a Trustee with the following skills and experience:

• As a director or trustee or experience in any other governance role.

• Science, environmental or primary industry.

• Valuing philanthropic activity.

• Commercial or business.

• Communications with ability to work collaboratively in a Board environment.

• Strong connections/affinity within Te Tauihu.

The Trustee position is voluntary. The Trust Board meets five times per year; the level of involvement outside this is optional and varies with projects. Applicants from Nelson, Tasman, Golden Bay, Marlborough, Kaikoura are preferred.

Further information can be obtained from elizabeth@ greenaway.co.nz

Those interested in applying for the Trustee position should email the following to elizabeth@greenaway.co.nz no later than 5.00pm on Monday 24 April: A short letter summarising the skills and experience that they bring

• Full resume detailing work history, relevant experience and qualifications.

• Contact details for two potential referees.

Full -Time Permanent

We are now seeking applications for the role of Centre Manager which is responsible and accountable for the management and operation of this local community facility. You will need to show exceptional leadership skills in leading a small team of dedicated staff to deliver first class customer experiences. A high degree of financial acumen and the ability to develop and maintain strong stakeholder relationships. You will be well organised, a quick learner, have amazing customer service skills, and have an eye for detail. Computer literacy is essential, with knowledge of booking systems an advantage. Most of all you need to be a team player, able to think on your feet and adapt quickly.

Application form, CV and covering letter to be received by Monday 24th April 2023 to:

Administrator

Sport Tasman

P.O. Box 3197

Richmond, 7050

Or email to: admin@sporttasman.org.nz

We require a reliable and conscientious person for cleaning at a Richmond School. 15hrs per week. 3pm start. Phone Ray 022 082 3280.

Auckland Point School

Te Kura o Matangi Awhio

Teacher Aide Position

We are seeking a special person, who has an affinity with children who have extra special needs, to come and work in our school.

5 hours per day. 25 hours per week.

Pay: $25-$30 p.h. (dependent on experience) Experience would be desirable.

For further information please contact:

Our principal - Sonya Hockley

principal@aps.school.nz | 03 548 7970

DELIVERIES STORE FURNITURE

Richmond Office Products Depot is a locally owned commercial business supplying office furniture, business machines, stationery, cafeteria and cleaning supplies to clients throughout Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough regions. An opportunity has arisen for an enthusiastic person to join our store team. This is a diverse, fun and busy role and will comprise of many store tasks, including stock, office furniture, packing orders for dispatch, courier ticketing, deliveries to local customers.

We are looking for a person with the following attributes:

• Self motivated and well presented

• Works well in a team environment and shows initiative to work unsupervised

• Excellent communication skills and a positive attitude to work and staff

• Honest and reliable

• Good eye for detail and retains information

• Be able to work efficiently and have great time management skills

• There is some heavy lifting, so you need to be fit and healthy

• Full NZ drivers licence

• Forklift licence would be a benefit but not a requirement

Come and join our awesome team, work with great people in a great job

If you are interested in joining our team and believe you have the enthusiasm and motivation, we invite you to apply today. This position is available now and is a full time role, Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm. Please email loveyourwork@opdrichmond.co.nz providing a CV and cover letter, or please drop off your details to our showroom - 7 McGlashen Avenue, Richmond, NELSON

PUBLIC NOTICE

Retired Professor of English Literature, recently settled with wife in Richmond, seeking a good place to hunt ducks, geese, and parries. Happy to share bag, and read to you passages from my books, or the works of Milton and Shakespeare.

Dr. Bill 021 779 665

SITUATIONS VACANT

SITUATIONS VACANT

SITS VACANT

TASKER

Regan Kenneth

16.02.78-30.03.19

In loving memory of Regan. Sadly passed away four years ago. Dearly missed by Mum (Marilyn), Dad (Ron) and Brother (Clayton)

A golf tournament is held at Totaradale Golf Club each year in remembrance of Regan.

This year the tournament is on Sunday 2 April. $10 entry, the BBQ starts at 9am.

WILLEMS

Peter Maxwell

Younger Son of Dell Williams and the late Bart Willems. Brother of Robert Willems and Liz Fleming, died on March 20th at his home in Richmond, where he had been exceptionally well cared for by the staff of IDEA services.

A private farewell has been held. Messages to 511 Waimea West Road.

CHRISTADELPHIANS The Bible Our Guide

We warmly welcome you to hear Jonathan Clark

Jesus Christ or the Anti Christ - is this the Greatest Case of Mistaken Identity Join us Wednesday, 4th April 2023 at 7.30pm Richmond Library, Constance Barnicoat Room www.nelsonchristadelphians.nz

www.simplicity.co.nz

What Next?

FOR

Giriselina Hedging Plants ‘Broadway Mint’ 20 plants, only $160 Ph/ Text Len: 021 213 2644.

DENTURES

New dentures, relines, repairs. Phone Daniela at Bays Dentures 546 4455.

FURNITURE ANTIQUES

- MAKE AN OFFER Final weeks of our Closing Shop Sale @ Souchebys Antiques, The Castle 75 Gladstone Rd, Richmond. Open 6 days. Ph 544 0723 or 021417413. Don’t miss this after 22 years!

at Souchebys Antiques, The Castle, 75 Gladstone Rd, Richmond Ph 544 0723. Open

Your story,

way 7pm - 8.30pm Thursday 30th March Coffee on Queen, Richmond

For more information please contact Shone & Shirley Funeral Directors O3 546 5700 | funerals@shoneandshirley.co.nz