Wednesday 4 December 2024
Footpath plea after child hit by car
MAX FRETHEY
Local Democracy Reporter
The rural Tasman community of Upper Moutere is renewing its plea for a shared path to be built in the village after a child was hit by a car on Monday.
A $400,000 shared path, linking the centre of the village and the community centre 1.3km away, was originally slated to be constructed in the first quarter of 2025.
However, in October Tasman District Council deferred construction until the 2025/26 financial year because assumed funding from the New Zealand Transport Agency wasn’t granted after the Government slashed
walking and cycling funding.
On Monday, a local child was critically injured in the village centre after being hit by a car.
Though the incident occurred just outside the area to where the shared path would have ex-
tended, it has exemplified safety concerns about pedestrian-access and speed limits in the small community.
“It was right in the village centre,
SEE PAGE 2
NZ-first for Tākaka Hill
This weekend will see the opening of New Zealand’s first public Via Ferrata on Tākaka Hill.
Few New Zealanders will be familiar with a Via Ferrata climbing route, but in the European Alps there are more than 1000 routes. They are rock climbing routes where steel footholds and wire rope have been added so that anyone with reasonable strength and fitness is able to climb a rock face that otherwise only experienced rock
climbers could have climbed.
The thrill of rock climbing becomes available to many more people and the fixed wire rope provides a continuous safety line. Every climber wears a rock climbing harness with lanyards that are always attached to the wire rope.
The Takaka Hill Via Ferrata is the brainchild of Till Middelhauve, who founded an Incorporated Society which aims to build and promote free public Via Ferratas in this country. The club applied for grants to fund the materials to build a route. It took more than two years to obtain all the necessary agreements and raise the funds.
See Page 2.
The country’s first public Via Ferrata rock climbing course has been established on the top of the Tākaka Hill, with an open day this Saturday. Motueka High School student Lara Middelhauve is pictured testing it out. Photo: www.risse.org
Footpath plea after child hit by car
so we’ve seen the real consequence of the sorts of decisions that we make in times like this,” said Moutere Hills Residents Association chair Nathan Silcock.
Nathan, on Thursday morning, supported by many Upper Moutere residents who filled the council chamber, presented to elected members on the topic.
“The impact on council is negligible but the impact on us and the significance to us is huge.”
The issue has been swirling for about two decades and was labelled as the district’s “highest priority” proposed path more than five years ago.
“The only time the council ap-
peared to move quickly throughout this process was when the delay happened,” Nathan said.
In the meantime, there was nowhere safe in the area to walk, and the lack of a footpath was having a “significant” impact on disabled members of the community.
“Our community feels forgotten and unimportant.”
A decision on the shared path will be put before elected members again on 11 December and Nathan urged councillors to re-commit to constructing the path in early 2025.
“Please keep our community safe and connected.”
During his presentation, Nathan also commented on the speed limit in the area.
PORT TARAKOHE DRAFT SPATIAL PLAN
The Port Tarakohe draft Spatial Plan is a high-level plan designed to guide the future use and development of Port Tarakohe.
It aims to balance economic growth, environmental protection, and community and cultural needs at the Port. You can read the plan here at shape.tasman.govt.nz/port-tarakohe-spatial-plan and provide feedback up until 10 February 2025.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION AND MEET THE PLANNERS
Open meeting
• Tuesday 10 December 2024, 11.00 am – 2.00 pm
• Pōhara Boat Club, 995 Abel Tasman Drive, Tākaka
• Just walk-in, no appointment necessary
Currently, the Moutere Highway is 100kmh, though the section that runs through the village is 50kmh.
He said that more than 300 residents had signed a petition seeking the highway reduced to 80kmh with speed through the village lowered further to 40kmh.
The region’s speed management plan, agreed to jointly by the Nelson City and Tasman District Councils, would have seen the 100kmh sections of the Moutere Highway lowered to 80kmh.
The change was due to occur in January 2025. However, the Government’s new rule for setting speed limits invalidated the council’s work on lowering several speed limits across the district.
Tasman is now planning to re-consult on lowering the speed limit on the Moutere Highway in the first quarter of 2025 with changes hoped to be implemented in the third quarter.
The Moutere Highway is a highrisk rural road. Crash data from between 2014 and 2023 for a stretch of the road recorded three fatal, 18 serious, and 80 minor crashes.
In the council’s original, now-invalidated consultation that was conducted last summer, 93 per cent of submitters who referenced the Moutere Highway wanted to see speeds reduced.
A 40kmh speed limit through the centre of the village doesn’t align with the guidance set out in the
Government’s rule.
Variable speed limits outside of schools, including Upper Moutere School where Nathan said speed was an “ongoing” concern, must have variable speed limits implemented by July 2026. The plea to the council was made during public forum, where elected members typically can’t respond to presentations. However, Nathan and the other attendees were invited by the mayor to the 11 December meeting where the issue will be put before the council again.
NZ-first for Tākaka Hill
FROM PAGE 1
This August, the society members got busy on the rock face. The steel footholds, wire rope and materials needed to be carried to the cliff, then holes were drilled into the rock face and the footholds glued into place.
“It was hard work with volunteers often hanging from ropes to do this work,” says Till. Walking tracks and signage were also put in place.
“Thousands of hours of volunteer work have gone into this project.”
The climbing route is accessed from the big car park at the very top of the Takaka Hill road. Signs at the car park show the way. Till suggests everyone first go to the practice route in the ‘Skill Zone’ which offers easy climbing and a chance to get familiar with
the gear and check their head for heights. A 10 to 15-minute walk further on takes people to a route called the ‘Cliff Traverse”.
This is a longer (170m) and much more challenging route that will provide thrills and adrenaline. A walking track from the top leads back to the car park.
A feature of the Takaka Hill Via Ferrata is the fantastic views into Golden Bay, the Kahurangi National Park, and
Farewell Spit.
“The views are world-class, the thrill is very real, and we expect the route will attract plenty of people from far and wide,” Till says.
The open day starts at 10am on Saturday, 7 December. Helmets and harnesses will be available free and society members will be there to help. Bring warm clothes, wind proofs, strong footwear, and gloves.
For more info visit the society website www.viaferrata.org.nz
The route has been tried and tested by locals. Photo: Supplied.
Pilot whale stranding on Farewell Spit
ELISE VOLLWEILER
Marine mammal rescue organisation Project Jonah is fighting to save a pod of long-finned pilot whales, which has stranded on Golden Bay’s Farewell Spit.
At the time of publication, 24 of the 37 whales were still alive, and the Project Jonah team was awaiting the Tuesday high tide to attempt to refloat the mammals.
Ross Trotter, who is the Department of Conservation’s Tākaka operations manager, said that “the remaining 24 are in relatively good condition and we are optimistic of a successful refloat on the high tide”.
He said that Project Jonah is continuing to organise teams in response to this incident, and that anyone wishing to volunteer should check with Project Jonah before coming to Golden Bay.
In a Facebook post from the stranding site, a Project Jonah representative explained that they were dealing with a “split pod” that had stranded in two locations, and they faced the challenge of trying to refloat the pods simultaneously.
Among the many Facebook messages of support was one from New South Wales-based group ORCCA, whose mission is similar to that of Project Jonah’s.
“Take care brothers and sisters. We’re thinking of you, sending you strength and love today,” their message read.
The organisations were first alerted to the stranding early on Monday afternoon.
The plan was to try to refloat the whales either on the incoming tide on Monday night before it gets dark or at high tide on Tuesday at about midday, Ross said on Monday.
The team were assessing to see if a refloat attempt was possible on Monday evening before it got dark. However high tide wasn’t until 11.30pm so it was not possible in the end. Once it’s dark, the team was forced to stand down, as it’s unsafe to continue to work.
A team returned to the site at dawn where they found another six had passed away and one was euthanized due to poor condition.
Check Nelson App for further updates.
Project Jonah volunteers work to keep the pod of pilot whales cool until an attempt can be made to refloat them at high tide on Tuesday. Photos: Dieter Brandsch.
Bays Boating’s outboard technician Keaton Fry will be onboard next week to help customers purchase new life jackets in the Coastguard’s Old4New promotion.
Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
Say bon voyage to perilous lifejackets
ELISE VOLLWEILER
Got a dodgy lifejacket floating around?
On Monday, 9 December, the Coastguard will be at Motueka’s Bays Boating to help people evaluate the state of their lifejackets and find the perfect fit of any that need replacing, with a discount of $30 off new Hutchwilco stock.
The discount will carry on throughout the week at Bays Boating, located on King Edward Street.
Owner David Thorn says that they have partnered with the Coastguard for about eight years, and the annual Old4New promotion was a popular option.
He encourages people to bring in any questionable lifejackets during this time so that they can be recycled or disposed of, free of charge.
With the Tasman District Council’s Navigation Safety Bylaw 2024 coming into effect on 1 December, personal flotation devices must be worn by every person on a moving vessel that is 6m or less in length.
The bylaw also states that “while the vessel is not underway, sufficient personal flotation devices of an appropriate size to securely fit each person on board must remain in a readily accessible location”.
Nationally, more than 22,000 lifejackets have been traded in via the Old4New scheme in the last decade.
Big turnout for Kaiteriteri adventure race
STEPHEN STUART
Kaiteriteri Beach and surrounds were swarming with athletes last Saturday for the inaugural Gearshop Tasman Adventure Race organised by the Motueka High School adventure racing community.
Event organiser Wendy van den Berg says 440 competitors took part in 12, eight and four-hour races which began and ended on the beach front.
The school’s boys’ team, racing as “Searching for the Wiggly Woggly Worm” won the junior 12 hour section and finished fourth overall.
The girls had to revert to the eight hour race after two of their members felt unwell. The event attracted some elite local athletes with Team Gearshop’s Rachel Baker and Dave Quested powering away with the feature race in eight hours and 27 minutes.
It was almost a sprint for them as they had recently returned from racing in a five-day expedition in the Victorian Alps.
“I had my eye on this race and just wanted to see how I recovered from Australia,” says Rachel,
who is an outdoor instructor for Whenua Iti Outdoors in Lower Moutere.
Just two days earlier, she had
been running her first two-day camp for junior adventure racers. The pair was second off the water after the opening kayak stage and
then mixed it with another top local outfit, Mixed Nuts, before winning by two minutes.
“It was a pretty short and punchy
race for us.
“I enjoyed the little gnarly downhill mountainbike section,” comments Dave, a software engineer from Stoke.
“It was quite a change for us. The conditions were pretty good, but it was definitely hot,” confirms Rachel, who has been adventure racing for the past decade.
The 30-year-old’s next goal is competing in a sixth Coast to Coast, this time as an individual in the gruelling one-day event.
Dave, who admitted to being “pretty cooked” after the Tasman challenge, is now eyeing the MAGNificent, a new five day race in Southland.
“The Nelson and Tasman districts provide the perfect set-up for adventure events with three parks and the coastline,” declares the 45-year-old who is originally from Oxfordshire.
“It was awesome for our teenage adventure racers to be able to measure themselves against the best teams,” says Wendy.
“It is paradise here and we are definitely keen to stage the race again next year,” she concludes. More photos on the event Facebook page.
Competitors racing down Kaiteriteri Beach to start the inaugural Motueka High School Adventure Race on Saturday morning. Photo: Supplied.
Nosey Parkers explore Paul Sangster’s fascinating Tākaka collection
Nine members of the Nosey Parkers group enjoyed a memorable visit to Paul Sangster’s private collection in Tākaka on Wednesday, November 20. The group, known for their curiosity and love of exploration, discovered a treasure trove far beyond their expectations.
Initially anticipating a collection of cars and motorbikes, they were instead treated to an eclectic array of collectibles that offered insights into history, local culture, and quirky memorabilia. Paul Sangster, a passionate collector, welcomed the group by sharing stories of his journey as a collector, which began with spare-time jobs and donations.
The collection is impressively diverse, featuring a large number guns and an extensive array of military memorabilia from both World Wars. Beyond this, visitors marveled at collections of caps, pens, oil cans, household goods, toys, and many things too numerous to mention.
There was even the old Tākaka jailhouse built in 1911, complete with police uniforms and fingerprinting equipment from the Tākaka area.
Paul’s stories about the origins of his items and the people he has encountered through his collecting journey added a personal touch to the visit. Although three of his trucks are stored offsite due to space constraints, his dedication to preserving these artifacts is clear.
the group enjoyed lunch in Tākaka, rounding off a fascinating day filled with history, storytelling, and camaraderie.
After exploring the collection,
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The visit highlighted the passion of local collectors like Paul Sangster and the value of preserving unique artifacts that connect us to our past.
The Nosey Parkers left inspired, with a deeper appreciation for the art of collecting and the rich history of the Tākaka region.
People can join Nosey Parkers by becoming members of the Motueka SeniorNet.
Visit our website, https://seniornetmotueka.org.nz/application/ for joining information and an fill out an application form to join online.
Paul Trewavas, left, Dave Wilson, Ann Curtis, Trudy Culling, Alan Culling, Maureen Hutton, Bill Giggs, Clive Dyson, and Paul Sangster (seated). Photo: Polly Dyson.
You-know-who is coming to town
ELISE VOLLWEILER
The man in the red suit will be making his annual appearance in Motueka’s main street this Friday, 6 December, with the advent of the town’s New World Christmas Parade. Kicking off at 5pm, Motueka’s residents can enjoy late-night shopping until 7pm, with face-painting, street entertainers and the famous Ferris wheel all adding to the festivities. This year’s event includes 30 floats and a one-on-one photo opportunity with Santa, at his grotto in Delicious Café, from 5pm. The festivities continue on Sunday evening, with Community Christmas Carols at St Andrews Uniting Church, beside the Motueka police station. For decades, Bev and Ernie Dyke organised a “Carols by Lamplight” event in their drafty rural woodshed but, having moved to town, they needed a new venue. The new iteration will kick off on Sunday, 8 December, at 7pm, with music provided by the Motueka District Brass and The Sisterhood Ladies Quartet. Bev and Ernie say that all are welcome to come and enjoy singing traditional Christmas songs.
Black Friday spending
Nelson Tasman shoppers spent $3.2 million during the Black Friday weekend from Friday to Sunday, according to Worldline NZ. The spending marked a six per cent increase on last year and did not include spending on hospitality and food/ liquor retailers. The Worldline NZ payment network reached $175.6m nationally over the weekend. Nelson Tasman recorded $67m of spending on the payment network during the month of November representing a 2 per cent increase on 2023 and a 15.1 per cent increase on 2019.
Foodbank gets $13k
Motueka Community House is getting a $5,500 contribution as part of the Foodstuffs South Island Community Trust’s $250k Christmas boost. The Trust is , funded by local New World, PAK’nSAVE and Four Square store owner-operators.
Nelson Community Foodbank is also getting a $13.5k donation from the trust. “We hope this contribution makes a meaningful difference to the communities we serve this Christmas,” says trust chair Lucy Boock
Chantal Hijmering and Matthew Guthardt
Jonny Bendow and Jack McIntyre
Kruddy Henrey and Mike Collins
Lisa Lamb and Jon Marshall
Patrick and James McDougall
Damien Innes, Mel Stinka and Mike Roberts
Sharon Trustum and Kim Duff
Tabitha Leong, Sam Dickson and Nicole Cameron
Jason McIvor, Andrea McIvor, Talitha Walterfang, Tiana Walterfang-Sefo and Ella Gane
Josh Te Hira, Sara Stanojevic, Lucy Te Hira, Jono Holt, Jacinta Borer and Rebecca Guy
Tracks hide a problem
Many people enjoy the pleasant bush walk from the Riwaka Valley Road carpark to the deep pool where the river emerges from the underground channels of Tākaka Hill. The valley is enhanced with a pristine-looking forest containing magnificent specimens on the steep slopes above. Also amenable is the nicely designed carpark, enhanced with native planting, and the use of local stone on the track’s steps. All in all, a place of natural harmony.
But ascending the slope beyond the track, thoughts of ecological bliss are quickly dashed. Instead, one climbs into a scene of destruction brought about by feral goats. Rotten branches abound, and limbs that are still alive are heavily calloused by rubbing and gnawing.
Attempted growth within reach of the creatures is doomed, and there is little sign of regeneration. The soil is trampled and laid bare, so that rainwater washes down the slope instead of soaking in. The impressive rimu, matai and totara stand aloof to this mayhem, but there is no sign of little ones. Higher up the slope and on the plateau at the top, beech trees dominate. Here, pig damage is obvious, with diggings between the roots and the marble rocks.
My trip up and down this slope was pretty depressing and there was little sign of bird life. But on the positive side it was great to see the stately podocarps, and on the plateau rata trees were still
alive, suggesting that possums, at least, have been controlled.
In my wanderings over the Nelson hills
I can see that, by only following tracks, the full extent of animal damage is not apparent. But walks along untracked sections of Bryant Range, will reveal how destructive ungulates can be. This country needs to offset emissions with carbon sinks. Our native forests can play a big role in this, but only if a serious effort is made to rid our natural areas of marsupials and ungulates. Spending money in this quest will reduce the billions of dollars that is sent
to overseas countries to sequester for us. And as an added bonus we will have an environment to be proud of, extending well-being far beyond attractive tracks. A visit to Brook Waimārama Sanctuary will show what can be done.
Malcolm Fisher
lfie’s grandeur celebration
Congratulations Alfie!
Sonia Clarkson
Well done, Alfie.
Donna Flutey
Way to go, Alfie
Bronwyn Webby
Upper Moutere footpath plea
Oh geez, definitely need that footpath.. hope the child has a full recovery. Thinking of the family and the poor driver as well. How about instead of trying to make Nelson beautiful and wasting money putting in things we don’t need and wasting more money taking it all out because it isn’t working, that we put in the things we do need. Put in the footpath out here, keep everyone safe.
Marion Maxwell
Dog Thursday 5 December, 10.30am Babbling Books Thursday 5 December, 1pm-2pm
Board Games Friday 6 December, 3.30pm-6pm
Migration Stories Sunday 8 December, 1pm-3.15pm
Christmas Crafts Cards & Decorations
Vintage Christmas Thursday 5 December, 1.30pm-3pm
Steampunk Christmas Wednesday 11 December, 5pm-6.30pm
Whimsical Christmas Friday 13 December – 1.30pm-3pm
Children’s Christmas Crafts Wednesdays 4, 11, 18 December, 3.30pm-4.30pm
Christmassy Storytime Thursday 12 December, 10am-11am
Haines
Vanessa Hobby
friends over the Christmas holiday period.”
Schouten
Rose
Sharing light and love this holiday season
As the holidays approach, we recognise that this time of year can be especially difficult for many, particularly those facing family violence, grief, or financial hardship. The current economic pressures, both in New Zealand and globally, along with the uncertainty in many parts of the world, are making life even more challenging for many families.
In 2023-2024, we saw an 18 per cent increase in referrals compared to the previous year, with 608 cases, most of them related to family harm. These numbers reflect just a part of the complex and emotional struggles people face in our community. Since 1987, Women’s Support Motueka has been offering vital support through crisis intervention, counselling and advocacy to women and their families during tough times.
As in previous years, we encourage everyone to plan ahead to ease the pressures of the holiday season, especially for separated families or those managing access arrangements with children. Here are some tips to help bring a sense of calm and joy:
• Focus on the children’s well-being. Help them create memories filled with love and kindness.
• Stay true to what Christmas means to you. It’s easy to get swept up in the hype, but staying grounded in what truly matters to you can make the season more meaningful.
• Be kind to yourself. Take time to relax and connect with nature when you can.
• Stick to a budget. Spend only what you can afford, ensuring essentials like bills are covered first.
• Plan family arrangements in advance and give children time with both parents when shared custody is involved.
• Talk to someone you trust if the idea of Christmas feels overwhelming.
• Be mindful with alcohol and keep hydrated by drinking water.
• Step away if tensions rise. Let everyone take a breather and calm down before things escalate.
• If you are worried about your safety or that of your children, please call 111 for immediate assistance.
This year, thanks to the wonderful generosity of the Kindness Collective, we won’t need toy donations. However, we still need your support. Supermarket, petrol, pharmacy, and The Warehouse vouchers are particularly helpful for the families we support and will bring relief to those struggling. You can donate via our new platform on our website – www.wsm.org.nz/support-us/
Please send your contact details to admin@ wsm.org.nz so we can issue you a tax-deductible receipt.
We wish everyone in our community a safe and happy holiday season. From all of us at Women’s Support Motueka.
The district’s primary school students competed last month to see who could throw the furthest, run the fastest and jump the highest at the interschools athletics competition. The weather held nicely for the two-day event, so that the eight to 10-year-olds and the 11 to 13-yearolds both got their day in the sun.
is
Pictured
Riwaka School’s Elena Krammer Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
47 Anderson Road, Rd 3, Motueka admin@cedermanbros.co.nz business@cedermanbros.co.nz
WHITWELLS MENSWEAR
SPORTSWEAR MENSWEAR FOOTWEAR
Master mariner passing on skills to would-be sailors
STEPHEN STUART
Helping boaties in distress is a key part of Paul Appleby’s busy day job and now he’s aiming to better prepare the next wave of yachties coming through.
In conjunction with the Motueka Yacht & Cruising Club, the Tasman District deputy harbourmaster has launched a learn-to-sail programme for eight to 12-year-old children.
“Basically, I was born and raised on the water as my Dad was a skipper on the Auckland tug boats. So I grew up hanging around his ankles,” recalls Paul.
“I didn’t learn to sail until I was a teenager, and my first boat was a sailing dinghy my dad built for me on my 13th birthday. It was awesome, but then my brother and sister sunk it.”
But that didn’t diminish Paul’s passion which took him ocean racing all around the world.
“I hve had some amazing opportunities with my sailing career, met some super talented people and now it is all about giving back,” declares Paul who left Auckland nine years ago for a change of pace.
After five years skippering the Mapua ferry, he took on his harbourmaster’s role based at Port Motueka, essentially next door to the Motueka Yacht & Cruising Club.
He saw a need to instruct primary school children and found club commodore Ken Eccles was thinking along the same lines.
“There are so many people teaching children how to race that we thought let’s do a grassroots course. Teach them safety, competence and get them confident on the water first.”
Withi two weeks they had five sponsors and bought Sailqube dinghies which the club now owns. They put up posters advertising the sailing school with the plan to attract a dozen children, two classes of six for one three-hour session at weekends.
Paul was swamped, fielding up to 50 calls.
The first classes, with10 volunteer coaches also on board, began last month with most of the young participants never having been on a boat before.
“So, if we can get the boys and girls to have fun and be safe on the water, that’s a win for me.”
As part of learning the ropes, a novice sailor has to be able to tie a bow line.
“I sent them away with homework and every student came back knowing how to tie a bow. The next step was a figure eight.”
The first intake of the Motueka learn-to-sail programme getting ready to hit the water. Photo: Supplied.
Drop back pays off for volleyballers
STEPHEN STUART
Rather than run the risk of being overwhelmed, Motueka High School opted to slip down the grades at the South Island Junior Volleyball Championships in Christchurch
The school’s under 15 girls side finished third in division two last year but, going through a rebuilding phase, coach Allan Brodie preferred to avoid the possibility of being demoralised.“We played Nayland “A”
about six weeks before the tournament and they were way too strong. So we didn’t go through the Tasman qualifying system,” says Allan.
That enabled Motueka to drop down to tier four where the side went unbeaten in its eight matches.
“Our serving was just too much for the other sides and we didn’t drop a single set.
“We would have liked more of a challenge as we weren’t under a lot of pressure,”
comments Allan.
But he adds the team was still buzzing.
“It is a very skilful sport. There’s also lots of camaraderie and fun.”
Nayland went on to win division one, beating Christchurch Girls’ High School 2-0 in the final with basketball star Emelia Ainley adjudged MVP
There were 58 girls’ teams in the tournament, highlighting the growth of the sport in the South Island.
The Motueka High School volleyball team back from left: Phoebe Erni, Jess Perry, Charlotte Bradley, Portia Fifita, Meg Maley, Anjhela Dalluay. Front: Maddi Easton, Ilonka Blomfield, Isabelle Perrson, Heleene Surbano. Photo: Supplied.
Community Notices
MONDAY
MOTUEKA HIGHLAND PIPE BAND, Mon, 7pm. Band is located beside Motueka Recreation Centre. Promoting Scottish tradition and culture. Look forward to your participation. Info: Ph: 027284 8361.
MAPUA FRIENDSHIP CLUB Indoor bowls, 1st & 3rd Mon. Mapua Bowling Club rooms. 2pm, Bring a plate of afternoon tea. Lots of laughs. Ph: Val 035403685.
MOTUEKA ELYSIUM Mon, 9.30am, Muses Café. For Widows and Widowers. Join us for coffee and chat, friendship, and support. Ph: Carol 035285027.
WOULD YOU LIKE A BIKE? Bike Hub Nelson accepts donations of good used bikes, fixes them up and gives them away for a small koha. 142 Saxton Rd. Mon, 5.30-7pm. For other opening times and a map e: bikehubnelson@gmail.com.
MOTUEKA BETTER BREATHERS, Mon, 11.30am, Brass Band Hall, Old Wharf Rd. A 60-minute series of guided exercises done seated or standing, specifically designed to help those with breathing difficulties. Ph: Jess 0275467675.
TUESDAY
MOTUEKA BRASS, Tues Evenings. Discover your musical talent with us! Join our lively brass band for an unforgettable experience to join Ph: 021728168 or come along.
YOGA. If you have or have had cancer, we offer restorative yoga classes. Tues, 12.30pm. To Reg, Ph: 5287669.
MOCKINGBIRDS MUSIC GROUP, Tues, 2-3.30pm, Senior Net, Pah St.
If you enjoy some fun singing/playing music, come along with your instrument, we’d love you to join us. Beginners welcome. Ph: Sue 02102416155.
HOPE TENNIS CLUB SOCIAL TENNIS, Every Tues, 9.30am, Hope Tennis Courts, Hope Domain. All abilities most welcome. Queries Ph: 0211729257.
WEDNESDAY
MOTUEKA SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLUB, Wed, 7.30pm, Lower Moutere Hall. Keep fit while having fun. All ages, no partner needed. First time free. Enq Ph: Fay 0210393559.
SHARLAND CYCLES 5K FUN RUN & WALK from Club Waimea. Wednesday evenings till 18th Dec. Registration 5.30pm. Race briefing 6pm. More info www.waimeaharriers.nz
DEATH CAFÉ, 2nd Wed of month, 10-11.30am. Revite Café, 256 High St. An open space for people to talk about death and dying. margaret@margaretmccallum.com
AGE CONCERN TEA & TALK, Wed 4 Dec will be the last tea & talk for this year 10:30am-12:30pm. Tea and talk will start up again Wed 8 Jan. Merry Christmas everyone.
KNIT & NATTER Wed, 10-12pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Hub, 10 Pah St. Friendly group for all ages. Includes refreshments. All welcome. WALK 4 HEALTH, Wed, 9am, Motueka Community Garden. 3050 min walk at your own pace, for any age, any fitness and size. Ph:0273015598.
TOASTMASTERS MOTUEKA meet 1st & 3rd Wed of month, 6.45pm start, St John’s rooms, Jack Inglis Hosp, Courtney St. Gain speaking confidently, friendly environment. More Info Ph: Peter 0277468311.
MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL Office is open Wednesdays 11am to 3pm at Motueka Community House, Decks Reserve. Call in for arts info, funding assistance, and supporting art activities ideas for Motueka.
THURSDAY
NVC PRACTICE GROUP (NONVIOLENT / COMPASSIONATE COMMUNICATION), Every 2nd Thurs, 7-8.30pm, Motueka. In school term. For info e: margaret@margaretmccallum.com.
PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meet 1st Thurs of month, 1.30-3.30pm, Broadgreen House, 276 Nayland Rd. Ph: Bill 035448635 or 035391137.
MOTUEKA LIGHTHOUSE Meets last Thurs every month. Insightful presentations/workshops. 7pm-9pm, Motueka Community House, Decks Reserve. Donations appreciated. All welcome. angel3000.h@ gmail.com or facebook Motueka Lighthouse.
MOTUEKA G.R.G 2nd & 4th Thurs, 1-3pm, St Andrews lounge, 64 High St. Support group welcomes grandparents/kin raising/ supporting grandchildren. Join us for a confidential relaxed and supportive time with others. Ph: 0211337299.
SENIORNET MOTUEKA. 2nd Thurs of month, 2pm. Hear all about a different country in our Countries & Cultures Interest Group. Join
DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY
50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: office@topsouthmedia.co.nz
SeniorNet. Ph: Maureen 02102600432 or for more info ph Alan 0279711100.
MEDITATION, Weekly meditation sessions open to all. Thurs, 12.1512.45pm, Te Noninga Kumu - Motueka Library. During term time. No registration needed. Just come along. Info: Ph: Louise 0278789240. NELSON BAYS HARMONY CHORUS, (women’s choir), is seeking new members to join our happy group. Thurs evenings, Club Waimea, Richmond. Ph: Carole 0274360910.
MOTUEKA 50+ WALKING GROUP Thurs. More info Ph: 0212640403 e: secretary50pluswalkers@gmail.com, or www.motueka50pluswalkers.org.nz.
RUMMIKUB Thurs, 1-4pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Club, 10 Pah St. Friendly group, includes refreshments. All welcome. Ph: Keith 0274516422.
THE DOCTORS MOTUEKA – Walking Group, Thurs, 9am, by the Janie Seddon Shipwreck carpark. Walking for 30 mins, suitable for all fitness levels. Make your daily walk more fun and meet new people. Ph: 035288358.
FRIDAY
SENIORNET MOTUEKA, The Smartphone, iPad, iPhone and Tablet Interest Group meets 3rd Fri, 2pm. Ph Maureen 02102600432.
SATURDAY / SUNDAY
NELSON BRANCH OF ROYAL NZ AIRFORCE ASSOCIATION Meet 2nd Sat each month, 12pm, Club Waimea, Richmond, Phil’s Restaurant. Interesting speakers, raffles and members interested in Aviation Ph: Trever Squires 039706644 or John Bethwaite 035476634. Cost of meal
$25
HOUSIE: 1st and 4th Sat of month, 10 Pah St. Over 50s Social Hub. Ph: Jude 0273244226. All Welcome. Afternoon tea included. Cards $4. Raffles available.
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Sat, 10-12pm, Motueka Library. Free services, including copy certification and witnessing signatures are available.
GENERAL GROUPS
MOTUEKA RED CROSS. Open Mon – Sat, 10-2pm, Community House. Donations of clothing, books, shoes, linen welcome.
MOTUEKA TRAMPING CLUB A diversity of weekend day walks and multi-day trips suitable for a range of fitness levels. Visit www. motuekatrampingclub.org to learn more about your local Club, or e: membership.motuekatc@gmail.com for info on joining.
MOTUEKA DISTRICT TOY LIBRARY, Tues, and Thurs, 9-11am, and Sat, 10-12pm, 44 Pah St. Annual membership $30. Hundreds of toys for all ages.
MOTUEKA RIDING FOR THE DISABLED We need more volunteers to help with therapeutic riding sessions. Tues, Wed, Thurs, 8.30-1pm. Ph: 0211151720 or e: info@motuekarda.nz.
MOTUEKA TENNIS CLUB. INC. Social Tennis, Tues & Thurs, 9.30am, Sun, 2pm. Courts behind the Memorial Hall Pah St. Racquets available to borrow for new Members. All welcome.
MULTICULTURAL MOTUEKA welcomes migrants and refugees every Tues, 8.30-1pm, Fri, 8.30 -2pm, Community House, Decks Reserve. We provide connection and practical assistance for newcomers to our region as well as support for all cultural activities happening in our community. Ph 027 5286744 or sez@multiculturalnt.co.nz.
NEED A LIFT? Mapua Willing Wheels Volunteer Drivers Service, affordable transport around Mapua, Motueka, Richmond, Nelson (no airport runs). 24 hrs’ notice req. To book Ph: 0226822373. mapuawheels@ gmail.com.
NELSON HOSPICE The Motueka shop needs volunteers! If you would like to volunteer for us, please enquire at the shop or Ph: 035281178.
NELSON RAILWAY SOCIETY Founders Park. Check our Facebook page and Website for updates of our Train and Railcar Timetable for the school holidays. We will be running on extra days.
NEED AFFORDABLE COUNSELLING? Life Linc Nelson has been serving the region for 50 years and has rooms in Nelson, Richmond and Motueka. We provide low cost counselling up to 10 sessions and for anyone ages 12+. Couples counselling also avail. Contact us at www. lifelinc.co.nz or e: clinical@lifelinc.co.nz.
RUM MORRIS DANCERS. Musicians and dancers but mostly friends. Slightly random - mostly Tues evenings, sometimes Wed. Get yourself a second favourite form of aerobic exercise. Ph: Dorris 02040618088.
RADIO CONTROL SAILING Wed and Sun, 1pm onwards, Best Island. Weather permitting. IOMs and Dragon Force etc. New members welcome. Info Ph: Peter 0275443923.
RIWAKA CROQUET CLUB, do you and a group of friends/family/
workmates want to spend a fun few hours learning to play croquet? Min. of 8 players, $10 each, all equipment provided and someone from our club to help you learn the game. Full access to the clubhouse kitchen. For info Ph: 0276308910.
SUSTAINING TENANCIES Having trouble with your Tenancy? Need help working things through with your landlord or tenant? Gateway Housing Trust. Info E: housing@ght.co.nz or Ph: 035457100.
SURVIVORS AND THRIVERS GROUP, if you have or have had cancer, or supported someone else, come and connect. Ph: Maureen 5287669. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS. Is alcohol causing problems for your life? Want to stop drinking but can’t? we can help. Support meetings every day. Ph: 0800aaworks, 08002296757.
BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP, If you have or have had breast cancer, come along to this friendly atmosphere. 102 Hardy St, Nelson. Reg: 035391137 or E: info@cancernelson.org.nz.
GATEWAY TO YOUR WELLBEING, Wellbeing is important for all of us to thrive. The shed is a safe place to meet new people in a supportive and caring environment. We can connect you with other agencies for the right support needed. More info Ph: 0279214074, E: admin@ght. co.nz or pop in 24a Tudor St, Motueka.
GREYPOWER MOTUEKA welcomes visitors at the Community House office, Decks Reserve on Wallace St. for ongoing service requests. Discount provider list available. Ph: 035289076 or e: greypowermot@ gmail.com.
INDOOR BOWLS, Mon & Wed, 1.15-3pm, Motueka Over 50s Hub, 10 Pah St. All abilities welcome. Ph: Jude 0273244226.
MOTUEKA DISTRICT BRASS Do you want to be part of a fun, social and competitive band, who make players welcome? e: motueka. brass@gmail.com or Ph: 021728168
ENCOURAGEMENT GRANTS of up to $500 for groups & Individuals with an art project involving our local community. Contact: motuekaartscouncil@gmail.com
MOTUEKA NEWCOMERS New to Motueka? We’re a social group, mostly retired (50+) who meet regularly and welcome newcomers. More info Ph: Jana 035284355.
MOTUEKA MENZSHED, Tues, Wed or Thurs 9-12pm, MenzShed, Marchwood Park, College Rd. Give the missus some space, come to the menzshed. Just turn up or e: secretarymotmenzShed@gmail.com.
Community notices are free to community groups, schools, churches, gold coin donation events and fundraising only. For classified ads and public notices please call 528 2088. Due to the popularity of this column, while every effort will be made, inclusion cannot be guaranteed for free ads.
By Sue Merrick
TRADES + SERVICES
Motueka 16/53 Parker Street