The Guardian - 8 May 2024

Māpua’s despised planter boxes go

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

The widely-despised planter boxes along Māpua’s Aranui Rd will be removed and replaced with dashed yellow lines.

The modification is just one of several tweaks Tasman District Council will make to the road’s pilot layout after polling residents on what they thought of the new changes.

Concerns about the safety of a two-way shared path for cyclists and pedestrians have also prompted the council to change the path to only allow for cyclists travelling one-way, towards the wharf.

Cyclists travelling away from the wharf will be encouraged to use the road traffic lane instead. The plastic bollards will also be removed, though on-road parking is not currently slated to return.

The modifications to the road’s pilot layout were unanimously supported by councillors.

The features had been installed along Aranui Rd as part of the Streets for People

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Quilting community bands together

ELISE VOLLWEILER

For Jennie Green, the motivation to stitch by hand was borne from a reluctance to traipse out into the night and turn on the generator.

Even though she and her husband have

since moved from their off-grid property and into the relative convenience of an urban house with mains power, hand stitching is firmly instilled as Jennie’s passion and peace.

Tens of thousands of those stitches –18 to the inch, she reports – will be on

display at this year’s annual quilt show, which begins next Friday.

Jennie is the convenor of the show, which highlights the work of the Motueka Quilting Connection’s 28 members, as well as

SEE PAGE 2

The scintillating stitches of Jennie Green’s quilt will be raffled off at the annual quilt show. Displaying her work are Kay Palmer, Helen Hodginson, Shirley Marcusson, Shirley Cooper, Rose Rodgers and Lesley Conning. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

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Despised planter boxes to go

FROM PAGE 1

programme which aims to quickly and relatively inexpensively alter the roads to cater for active transport options, like walking and cycling.

The programme is funded by Waka Kotahi – the New Zealand Transport Agency.

However, a key aspect of the programme was the flexibility to modify the changes over time following feedback from residents.

The council surveyed residents about Aranui Rd before the pilot’s implementation and in the weeks following its completion in October.

Vehicle speeds were also measured. Feedback shows an increase in residents’ perception of safety while vehicle speeds have also decreased, most markedly in areas near the new raised pedestrian crossings, like outside Māpua School where average speeds dropped by 11.5kmh to about 28kmh.

“Aranui Rd – what a fantastic result to see that the community’s voice is being listened to and a lot of these changes are coming to fruition for them,” councillor Glen Daikee says.

The planter boxes aimed to slow vehicle speeds by narrowing the road, but Māpua residents were widely opposed to them. Photo: Supplied/Tasman District Council.

Quilters raise funds for search and rescue

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examples from across the country via an eclectic suitcase of entries from both the national ‘Hoffman’ challenge and the Aotearoa Quilter’s ‘Light It Up’ event.

Jennie says that a wide range of quilting styles will be on show, from hand sewing to applique

and piecing.

The Motueka Quilting Connection’s inhouse challenge was on the theme of “Search/Rescue” –a fitting topic, as this is also the group’s chosen charity who will receive a portion of the weekend’s proceeds.

The group is extending a warm welcome to anyone interested in joining the quilting group,

which meets at the Motueka Band Rooms on the first and third Wednesday of every month from 9am -3pm.

Jennie says that a range of quilting takes place, as well as visiting tutors.

The group also makes small quilts for the premature babies at the Nelson Hospital.

Entry to the Motueka Quilting

Connection Annual Quilt Show costs $5 per person, and raffle tickets for a sewing machine, a hand-sewn single bed quilt and a food hamper will also be on offer.

The show is to be held at the Motueka Recreation Centre from Friday 17 May through to Sunday 19 May from 10am-4pm daily.

Food sharing service revived amidst tough times

ELISE VOLLWEILER

The revival of a beloved Motueka food share service is again providing a lifeline for those struggling amidst the cost-of-living crisis.

Alive Community Care, run through Alive Church on High Street, rolled out its first fortnightly food boxes last Friday. Eighteen boxes were reserved and collected, with that number expected to rise quickly as news of the service spreads.

Church board member Emma Fifita says that the community has responded with gratitude and relief.

“Especially with winter coming,” she says. “Times are really tough.”

Among the contents of last week’s boxes were fish fillets, beef mince, cheese, crackers, wet wipes and canned goods.

The church spent two years facilitating the Motueka branch of the regional Kai with Love food share charity, before the organisation folded at Christmas due to a funding decrease.

The organiser approached the church board, offering them the large amount of stock they had on hand to utilise within the Motueka community.

Emma says that the church had been loving the connection with the community, and so they jumped at the chance to take it on.

“As a church, we want to be active in the community. We don’t just want to be a building,” she says.

They intentionally chose a name that does not mention food for the new service, and Emma explains that this is because they want to offer

something broader than the food share. For example, a pyjama and blanket day, where people can come and collect items to keep them warm through winter, has already been pencilled in for June.

Under the Kai With Love umbrella, the Motueka branch was handing out about 125 boxes a week –and more than 160 in the lead-up to Christmas. While the new service is getting off the ground, it is capped at 50 boxes once a fortnight, although Emma says they are hoping to increase this as

their capacity grows.

“We’ve got a really good head start, but we’re looking at ways that we can sustain it,” she explains.

She says that they would welcome any support – either one-off or ongoing – from orchards, farms and supermarkets, as well as households that have an abundance in their home garden. They join several other food support services in Motueka, including the weekly food service that operates from the Christian Fellowship Church on Woodlands Avenue, the Salvation Army

food bank, and the Community House share shelf.

Emma says it was great to be working alongside these services to help alleviate the community’s growing need.

“Many hands make light work,” she summarises.

Motueka’s Vicki Gibbons was one of the first Alive Community Care foodshare recipients last Friday, having formerly been linked in with Kai with Love.

“This is huge for us,” she said, holding up her foodshare box. “It’s an amazing help. Everything has gone up so much.”

Some Motueka/Golden Bay food assistance options:

Alive Community Care distributes fortnightly food boxes on Fridays, between 2.30pm and 3.30pm, at Alive Church, at 374 High Street. Message 021 025 52899 on the Thursday (before 3pm) prior to the Friday pickup. The next service is Friday 17 May.

Community House Share Shelf is available inside Monday-Friday 8.30am-4pm, outside in the weekends anytime.

Salvation Army operates their food bank on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 1pm-2.30pm.

The Foodshare Motueka runs their food service on Wednesdays from the Christian Fellowship Church, 25 Woodlands Ave. Text 028

436 6407 before 2pm to request food.

St Vincent de Paul operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Community House, between 1.30pm and 2.30pm, to be booked at Community House on the day via 03 528 0404 Weka Peckers Recycling - free bread during opening hours

Te Awhina Marae Te Pataka – contact 03 528 6061

Mohua Social Services operate from the Community Centre at 88 Commercial Street, Takaka. They operate the Golden Bay foodbank, with walk-in assistance available Monday to Friday, 9am-3pm.

DUCK SEASON OPEN: Clear, calm skies and light breezes greeted shooters for the opening day of duck season in the Tasman region over the weekend. With most ponds being used, the season sprang into life on Saturday morning with reports of reasonable bags being shot. With the recent prevalence of paradise ducks on local farms destroying crops essential for livestock feed, the season will come as some relief for local farmers. Recognising that, Fish & Game have put a higher bag limit for paradise ducks of 15 per hunter per day, five more than most other regions. The season continues until the end of July. Pictured are Riley Buller, left, Cody Neil, and Steve Buller on a local farm. Photo: Steve Page

Gayleen Harland, Lois Hall, Carolyn Greaney, Emma Fifita, Ian Evenden, Kevin Hunter and Margie Hunter put together the foodshare boxes for Alive Community Care’s renewed food assistance service. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

Request for boat ramp funds unfulfilled for now

MAX FRETHEY

Local Democracy Reporter

The Māpua boat ramp’s ability to gain a resource consent is being questioned, resulting in a deferral on a decision to release $250,000 of council funds for the community-led project.

Tasman District Council has allocated $700,000 to the boat ramp, though only about $169,400 has been released to the Māpua Community Boat Ramp Trust who are managing the project.

The boat ramp is estimated to cost at least $2.3 million and it’s currently in the process of trying to obtain a resource consent.

The consent application received 328 submissions with 111 opposed.

Of the submitters, there are 88 people who wish to be heard at the application’s hearing which could cost $150,000.

The Trust’s request for the council to release another $250,000 was built from the desire to have the funds available to cover that cost, and an additional $100,000 for reports and legal representation for the hearing.

Councillors’ concerns about whether a resource consent will be granted for the boat ramp plan have delayed a decision to release more funds for the project. Photo: Supplied.

“We’re not asking for more money, we’re just asking to use the money that our council allocated for us to do this,” says project coordinator Trevor Marshall.

“Whether the funds were used in terms of resource consent or in concrete, it’s all part of the process.”

However, several councillors voiced concerns about releasing the funding when a consent still might not be granted, or when a

consent could be overturned in the Environment Court.

“It seems an extraordinary amount of money that we’re being asked to commit for an uncertain outcome,” councillor Christeen Mackenzie said.

“I don’t feel comfortable getting myself into a situation where I’d have to explain to the community that actually we’ve spent all this money and we’ve got nothing.” However, other councillors

thought that the council should release the funds it has already committed to providing the Trust.

“We already knew these risks were there when we approved the $700,000. So, to now relitigate it seems a bit bizarre and probably a bit disconcerting for other community groups who are trying to work with council and can see just how inconsistent we might be,” councillor Mark Greening said.

“Give them the flexibility to land the plane.”

The decision was muddied further by claims from the Trust that the council had promised to build a new boat ramp in Māpua after access to the old one was restricted despite council officers having no knowledge of such a commitment.

Elected members eventually opted to defer their decision on releasing the funds until after the council has met with the Trust to discuss lingering concerns about sharing risk and if the Trust will be able to fund the rest of the build.

The council is also encouraging

the Trust and parties that have opposed the boat ramp application to meet and try to work through their concerns as well.

Speaking after the meeting, Trevor said he was “always happy” to meet with those concerned about the plans.

“We really want to try and reassure people that the concerns they have are equally our concerns as well and there’s always a solution, you’ve just got to find it.”

If the council eventually decided not to advance the $250,000, then the Trust would have a decision to make: “can we try and find money from somewhere, or do we actually walk away from it?”

However, Trevor remains confident that Trust will secure a resource consent for the ramp.

The money allocated to the project are not funded by rates but come instead from Reserve Financial Contributions which are instead funded by growth and are meant to be spent on community reserves.

Building a boat ramp would free up Grossi Point Reserve which is where boats are currently launched from.

Preschool track hops to national win

GORDON PREECE

Tākaka-based musician Levity Beet has heard more music to ears after his name was called for the sixth time at the 2024 Ngā Manu Tīrairaka New Zealand’s Children’s Music Awards.

His children’s song ‘Funny Little Bunny – The Springtime Action Song’, which he performs with Auckland muso Judi Cranston, hopped to victory in the preschool category for APRA Best Children’s Song on Sunday. Levity says he was “very

surprised” by the win considering he was up against renowned Kiwi music idols Don McGlashan and Harry Sinclair.

“When I heard their track, I was like ‘that is winning for sure’, because it was just great,” he says. “So, I was very surprised, unprepared, and a little in shock in terms of needing to say some kind of speech, usually I would be prepared for the possibility, but I wasn’t.

“I was especially happy for Judi because she is probably the longest-serving kids mu-

sic writer in New Zealand and also the most streamed, but she’s been a bit under the radar in terms of the public eye, so it’s great that she has got that acknowledgement this time.”

Levity says Funny Little Bunny was released in March last year, bolstering 84,000 Spotify streams worldwide and its lyric video has 100,000 views on YouTube.

Levity says the song’s inspiration was to stimulate brain connections in children by pairing movement with singing.

Levity Beet and Judi Cranston hit the right notes in their preschool song to take home a national children’s music award. Photo: Thomas Hamil Photography.

Penguin-friendly upgrade at rehab clinic

This plucky little blue penguin, named Punch by its rescuers, had badly injured its feet trying to scramble out of an empty swimming pool in the Tasman district. Baby booties helped protect its tender feet while it healed under the care of the Tasman Bay Blue Penguin Trust. Punch has now been released at a Tasman beach, near where he was found. Photo: Supplied.

ELISE VOLLWEILER

Most renovations do not need a specification that the flooring be “conducive to little penguin feet”.

The Tasman Bay Blue Penguin Trust’s rehabilitation clinic has recently been upgraded, with new curtains to help regulate temperature, and new flooring that was chosen especially to fit the above criteria, according to trustee Linda Jenkins.

She says the clinic, which is located on a private property in the Tasman district, is now an improved space for the region’s native wildlife patients which require care for a range of reasons, including injuries, malnutrition and abandonment.

The facility upgrade was enabled through a Network Tasman Trust grant, as well as a donation from the Nelson Building Society and other private donors.

“It is working wonderfully for our little blues,” Linda says.

The clinic is quietly ad-

ministered by Dr Mana Stretton, the trust’s “honorary wildlife vet” who donates many hours of her time, says Linda, and little blue penguins, or kororā, are one of the most frequent patients.

Their conservation status is “at risk/declining”, and they are under pressure from habitat loss, dog attacks, car and boat strikes, and malnutrition brought on by climate change.

The kororā is native to New Zealand and is the world’s smallest penguin, weighing in at about a kilo and measuring about 25cm in height.

What they lack in stature, however, they make up for in personality.

“I think the biggest thing for me is just how tenacious they are.

“They put up with so much human-induced interference,” Linda says. “They are very adaptable, if we give them half a chance.”

There are little blue populations in Tāhunanui, Ruby Bay, the wider Kaiteriteri area, and Pōha-

ra, to name a few nesting areas.

They waddle under the radar and are often invisible to their human neighbours, as their onshore activity happens during the night.

Although it is hard to pinpoint exactly how many little blue penguins there are regionally, a study was undertaken in 2020 using a survey handler and a penguin detection dog.

It took the team a week to work their way from Tapu Bay to Split Apple Rock, and they located 173 active burrows in this area alone.

Linda says that each burrow will contain an active adult pair, and commonly two chicks.

However, if one of the adults does not make it home to its burrow, the nest fails, because the remaining parent cannot feed the chicks by itself.

Linda explains that the solo parent waits for as long as it can before abandoning the nest, effectively leaving the chicks to starve.

“It’s a really tragic family story.”

Although humans are almost entirely responsible for the challenges that little blues face, they can also be part of the solution.

Linda says that people can make a huge difference by reducing driving speeds and keeping dogs on leads around habitat areas, keeping cats contained, and helping with beach clean-ups and predator-trapping programmes. She says that positive rehabilitation outcomes, such as Punch’s happy ending, help to raise awareness of kororā, which in turn increases community engagement and motivation to make a positive difference for the tenacious penguins.

“Little blues can do with all the support we can give them,” she summarises.

More information about the Tasman Bay Blue Penguin Trust can be found at www.tasmanbaypenguins. org.nz or facebook.com/lo veourlittleblueskorora/

Tasman couple lose rates fight after counterclaim built on ‘potpourri of legal concepts’

TRACY NEAL

Open Justice Reporter

A couple who tried arguing with a judge over their right to negotiate rates payments, according to the services they used, have had their case struck out and been told to pay their rates like everyone else.

Retired Moutere berry farmers Ron and Philippa Hellyer were sued by the Tasman District Council late last year for unpaid rates of just under $2700. They then lodged a counterclaim against the council and invoiced it for the time spent dealing with the claim.

Ray Hellyer told the Nelson District Court on Thursday their argument wasn’t based on their refusal to pay rates, but their withholding payment until their questions were answered.

“The council is not engaging with us on issues we want resolved,” he said.

Hellyer said he also wanted the council to clarify the constitutional principles by which it charged rates but felt he had now been targeted by the council’s “unreasonable complainant con-

very interesting but they’re irrelevant to much of this. You have the wrong end of the stick - what you have done is cherry-pick bits of Latin and bits of the law, but it doesn’t make sense and it doesn’t constitute a defence,” Judge Zohrab told them.

Judge Zohrab countered historical references contained in the volumes of material submitted to the court by quoting American Founding Father Benjamin Franklin in telling them that in this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes.

“If you own property, you’re liable to paying rates.”

its failure to maintain infrastructure adequately.

“This case was never about ‘refusing’ to pay rates, it was about the ‘withholding’ of rates under the Fair Trading Act until administrative issues the council was avoiding addressing were addressed.”

Hellyer felt the council was “protected in this avoidance by the courts”.

He also told NZME they had not applied for a rates rebate, such as they were entitled to as superannuitants, because they did not feel other ratepayers should have to subsidise them.

duct policy”, which was why he was not getting a response.

Judge Tony Zohrab said the council was not required to provide a response and its reluctance to engage was no basis for them not paying rates.

“Imagine if everyone in Richmond didn’t pay?”

Judge Zohrab said in striking out the couple’s counterclaim, which left them with no defence, that they had not provided the court

with a reasonably arguable defence and didn’t address the claim made by the plaintiff, but relied instead on the council not having answered several questions.

He described the Hellyers’ “woefully inadequate defence” as a “potpourri of legal concepts and historical events with a bit of pseudo-legal language thrown in which people are expected to take seriously”.

“Historical legal matters are all

He said the decision to strike out the case was aimed at saving them potentially several thousand dollars more in legal costs if the matter was to go to the next stage of a summary judgment argument, which would likely end in the same outcome.

The Hellyers said they had been ratepayers for more than 50 years but this time they had offered to pay what they felt was fair, based on the services they used.

Ray Hellyer told Open Justice outside court that they aimed to hold the council accountable for

Judge Zohrab said that on the face of it, the council had filed a simple claim for unpaid rates, and it was clear the defendant owned the property named, and it was clear they were liable to pay rates.

The Hellyers were instructed to pay the outstanding rates plus the council’s legal costs.

A big hello from the team at your local Bowater Toyota. We pride ourselves on going the extra mile and getting stuck in when it comes to making sure that the whole community is taken care of with all of their mobility needs. Our team here at our Motueka store on High Street can take care of everything, from sales through to serving all makes and models. We even have a brake disc machining tool in-house to keep everything just as it needs to be. Our workshop has state of the art diagnostic tools to make sure your vehicle is kept in the best condition, and our experienced technicians can get the job done efficiently. Give our locally based Craig Allott a call on 021 987 265 the next time you need to upgrade your vehicle. New or used, he’s your man, and can source you the perfect vehicle for your needs.

Retired berry growers Ray and Philippa Hellyer from the Moutere, near Motueka, were sued by the Tasman District Council for failing to pay rates, which they said they withheld until they got the answers they were seeking. Photo: File.

New ‘friends’ needed to keep St. James open

FIONA NELSON

For over 100 years, an Anzac Day commemoration has been held at St. James Church in Orinoco, thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers - but more people are needed to help out.

The Friends of St. James group help to make sure the grounds are immaculately groomed, and the church environs are clean and prepared.

They also prepare and serve morning tea with home-baked goodies after the service.

The group formed following a public meeting in March 1988 to discuss the potential closure of the church, as attendees had dwindled and services ceased.

More than 30 people attended the meeting and they were all against closing down the church.

The committee formed with the mandate ‘to protect and maintain the physical property and to restore the church to use again with clergy from different mainstream churches leading the services’.

Since then, their working bees have continued, but one long-time member of the church, Jo Holland, says they need to boost their numbers.

“We’re all getting older, and people to help maintain the church and grounds are dwindling again.”

There is the ever-present threat that the church will close without the support from the community.

Because of this, Jo is putting out a request for additional hands for several three-hour working bees.

These are held for Easter, Anzac Day, in October for the commemoration, and in December for the Christmas Service.

The work includes cutting lawns, trimming edges, garden tidying, cleaning the church and the Sunday School.

“It would be greatly appreciated to have additional hands,” Jo says.

“St. James is such a special historical asset of the valley.” Multi-denominational services are held on the third Sunday of each month, with Sunday School for children, and morning tea after.

If you are able to volunteer for Friends of St. James, please call Jo on 0211493639.

Sandra Moore, Jo Holland and Rupert Clarke help out as Friends of St. James. Photo: Fiona Nelson.

Local History

Destructive fire at Collingwood – Part 2

ROBYN PARKES

Twenty business places were destroyed in the 1904 fire at Collingwood including both hotels— Prussing’s Post Office Hotel and Pinkerton’s Collingwood Hotel which had only just been leased by Mr T. Mortimer. The fire next spread to the Collingwood Post and Telegraph Office, G, H. Allan’s Golden Argus newspaper office and dwelling, N Allan’s store and house, L Rait’s general store and house, E. T Rait’s general store, J. Kirks saddlery shop, T. A. Miles’ boot shop and house, Stallard’s boarding house and bakery, Hargreaves butcher shop and house, H. Ellis’ dwelling and shop, Collingwood Public Hall, G. W Riley’s boarding house of 20 rooms, only just completed and destroyed in around 10 minutes, J. M. Davis’ boarding house, Prussing’s cottage and sample room, T. Riley’s shop, Shaw and Stevens’ carpenter’s shop and sheds, which con-

tained sashes, doors, glass, dry timber, oils, paint, all of which was destroyed.

Many other outbuildings, stables, and storerooms were also lost.

W. C. Riley’s store escaped destruction through the successful efforts of a band of willing helpers who plied buckets of water and saturated blankets on the front of the building.

Mr F. West’s residence at the south end of Tasman St was saved but was badly scorched.

The reflection of the fire was seen in many parts of the district some ten miles away.

In true pioneer spirit, Mr P. Hunter, the postmaster, who had managed to save a couple of telephones from the office, at once set to work to restore temporary communication, carrying the wires from the nearest intact position to the Courthouse, from where the line was opened early in the afternoon.

The two hotel proprietors resumed business in old buildings

left standing, using stock salvaged from the fire to refresh the dozens of men who wandered aimlessly about.

The Golden Bay Argus newspaper, which was totally destroyed, in the true fashion of ‘the news must get out’ was able to produce a scant edition within one week of losing everything. This was made possible by the generosity of fellow journalists.

The proprietor of the Golden Bay News, Mr S. Fittall, offered the use of his office and plant and the

proprietors of the Evening Mail and Colonist assisted with other support.

An enquiry into the cause of the outbreak of the fire was held at the Courthouse before Mr Davidson (Coroner) and a jury.

Sergeant Dougan represented the Police, and Mr Arthur Maginnity appeared for the insurance companies interested.

After hearing evidence, the jury returned a verdict that there was no evidence to show how the fire originated, but residents were

criticised for not having a proper water supply.

Two months after the fire the township still presented with a desolate appearance, twisted sheet iron, empty tanks, and large quantities of bricks lying scattered about on the vacant sections and broken chimneys still remaining.

However, plans to rebuild were afoot.

E Riley had rebuilt a store, two storeys high, on the site of the old one, but with the exception of Cottier’s billiard room, it is the only permanent building that had been erected since the fire.

Stallard planned to build a boarding house and Mr Galbraith secured a tender for the Collingwood Hotel with 20 rooms.

Mr Prussing, owner of the old the Post Office Hotel, intended building an hotel to contain forty rooms, and that Mr R. N. Allan was to build a store.

By July 1905 almost every businessman had rebuilt.

Collingwood post fire 1904. Photo: Supplied.

Little ears tune in for big sounds

ELISE VOLLWEILER

A little musical inspiration was offered to the students at three Motueka primary schools, who were regaled by performances from their older counterparts at Motueka High School late last term.

Riwaka, Upper Moutere and Rudolf Steiner primary schools played host to the high schoolers, who put on a range of vocal

and instrumental performances.

Motueka High School support Trish Taylor says that the performances are a way of giving back to the community and are also a great opportunity for the high schoolers to practice for their NCEA performances.

“Primary students are inspired by hearing older students play - some of the younger ones are learning instruments so it’s great for them to hear their instru-

ments being played proficiently by the older ones,” she says.

The performances also gave the primary students a chance to hear that it was okay to make mistakes as part of the learning process.

The school’s talent quest final is coming up on Friday, 17 May, at 7pm. Tickets are available from Unichem and the Motueka High School office, and cost $10 for adults and $5 for children.

display until

final 20 from the

how

The

will be

and then will be rehoisted later in the year. Pictured are the art council’s Ruby Fitzgerald, Mary Nichols and Sarah Douglas, who celebrate the work of Abby McCall and John Grooby, while Sue Thorp’s printed creation tops on of the town’s new flagpoles. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

The Motueka Arts Council was delighted to hoist the 20 winning entries from their recent art flag competition around the town last week. The committee was “blown away” by the offerings, says chairperson Mary Nichols, describing

difficult it was to decide on the

42 entries.

flags

on

Matariki,

From left, Taylor Fulop, Esme Rodwell, Hilary Sinclair ( kaiako ), Anneke Vlaming, Juliette O’Donnell, Noa Leenhouwers, Livinya Jayasinghe, Chalome Laitflang, and Fern Leenhouwers practiced their NCEA performances at three local primary schools late last term. Photo: Supplied.

Alex Jacobsen and Marama Mayrick

Angelika Edgar, Charlie Johnson, and Summer Thomas, 9

Bacca Bakery’s Chris and Gregor

Dave Kirk-Jones and Sarah Campbell

Esther Remnant and Stef Naldi

Joe and Mary Carey

Kristin McFarland and Leanna Hewitt

Max Hawke and Gigi Caird

Seyda Ermanli and Coralie Walter

Zinnia Shuttleworth, Yiba Droppers and Cella Droppers

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Library service cuts warning

The headline in the 24/4 Guardian –‘PSA warns of dire consequences of library services cut’ – the Tasman District Council’s 10-year-plan is based on options A of B for the district’s libraries. Plan A, the council’s preferred option, is for business as usual. But Plan B is like going back into the Dark Ages. Open only four days a week and not weekends. All this would save is $23 a year on all rates – about the equivalent of 15 Mars Bars.

Anton Hyman

Moutere’s upper and lower strength facility

Great write up Julia Kelly and Kevin Ford.

Katrina Evans

Great work Julia Kelly.

Gareth Richardson

Well done, number 10! Awesome write up. Good on yas.

Cherame Mossley

Look at you cool humans go!! So cool.

Tanya McMurtrie

Empowering menopausal women in our community

Working for you

Bayleys Motueka

208 High Street, Motueka www.rwmotueka.co.nz

Heather Holmes

“Christmas morning, because she and everyone were happy together.”

Nice one, Liz van Beek

Jacinda Beyer-Rieger

More dogs registered in Tasman

Am curious how many new regos are actually Nelson dogs but using a Tasman address for rego. After all, their rego prices are practically half the Nelson rego cost.

Shelley Bishop

I think this is a positive, more dogs in homes and not in shelters. Also, what specifies a dog as menacing? Because I imagine if this is being specified by breed then there will actually be far less actually dangerous dogs? I think it might be nice to see a positive headline on the fact that people are able to keep their dog and not have to surrender it to a shelter, given the rise in the cost of living.

Nakita Weinlich

A love for agriculture

Nice one, Courtney! Keep up the great work!

Vanessa Harris

Man cut down billboard for Reality Check Radio, punched man who put it back up

Everyone is entitled to freedom of speech! Plus, wilful damage, trespassing and assault!

Mike Roberts

There’s rules around billboards around the region anyway so council would’ve taken it down eventually, I’ve seen three by this lot taken down.

Sue Wilson

So....the age of free speech is dead, my way or the highway. People should be able to make up their own minds.

Patrick Hall

Hunters gear up for game bird season

I’m going after Pukeko, such a pest bird, numbers are way too high.

Tom Jackson

Apparently, it’s called ‘duck hunting’ now because the word ‘shooting’ is triggering (pun absolutely intended).

James Brown

Grand master for Queen of clubs

Well done, Jana. Do we have to bow to you now when we meet on the beach?? Haha. Fantastic and very clever of you.

Linda Brough

STREET TALK

Matt Galvin (Licensed Sales Person REAA 2008) M 027 768 6288 E matt.galvin@bayleys.co.nz

Brad Evans

“At my sister’s wedding [at Lake Karapiro], just seeing how proud my mum was, it was very nice to see.”

What is your favourite memory of your mother?

Keira Brabyn

“During my birthdays when I was younger, we used to have little mother daughter days, getting our nails done and going to the movies.”

Isaac Egbert

“My brother smacked his elbow and it split open… and I could tell that my mum thought that he would

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Te Noninga Kumu - 32 Wallace St - 03 528 1047

Garden Gurus – Monday 13 May, 10.30am – 12pm

Crochet social group – Tuesday 14 May, 1-3pm

Paper Artsy – Thursday 16 May, 1.30pm-3.30pm

Age Positive series for Adults

How’s Your Memory – Wednesday 22 May, 10.30am-11.30am

Heather Lackner will provide information on Dementia and risk factors.

Protect Yourself – Thursday 23 May, 10.30am-11.30am

Learn essential online safety tips from Jen from NBS.

Mindful Art – Monday 27 May, 2pm3pm

Experience Neurographic Art: a technique of doodling lines, circles and shapes

NZ Music Month Concerts – Motueka High School students performing Wednesdays 22 May and 29 May, 1pm2pm

Lions scholarship winner pursues future in education

ELISE VOLLWEILER

The stress of paying rent and affording groceries can fade into the background for a while for university student Amber Goodall, who is the winner of a $3700 scholarship from the Motueka Lions Foundation.

Motueka local Amber, 22, was delighted to be awarded the financial boost, which is offered annually to one tertiary student who has a connection with the wider Motueka area.

The student must be in at least their second year of study. The scholarship was founded in 2022.

Amber is in her fourth and final year of study at Victoria University, where she is doing her Masters in primary teacher education.

There were 10 applicants, and Lions members Bill Menzies and William Mitchell made the decision independently, coming together to discover that they had both endorsed Amber as their top pick.

Motueka Lions president Mike Brown says that the scholarship feels like a great thing to be able to

offer.

“It’s quite encouraging to feel like you’re a part of someone’s learning,” Mike says.

Amber says that the scholarship enables her to focus on her study without worrying so much about how she will meet her living costs.

“I’ve worked my whole degree, but this [year] is a bit more full on,” she explains.

“It’s been very helpful.”

She hopes to move back to this area once she has completed her studies.

Amber attended Riwaka School and Motueka High School herself and worked as a teacher aide at Riwaka School in 2020, and she reckons it would be “a bit poetic” if she secured a position back there.

She chose teaching as her course of study because she loves working with children and making a difference in their lives.

“I had wonderful teachers growing up, and I’d just like to make a difference like they did for me.”

For information or to support the Motueka Lions Club, contact motuekalions@lionsclubs.org.nz.

Jeff Rogers, Bill Menzies, Mike Brown and William Mitchell with trainee teacher and Lions Foundation scholarship winner Amber Goodall. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

Pre-Winter Motoring

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE

Making a difference in our community

Sunday 12 May is International Nurses Day, the anniversary of Florence Nightengale’s birth and an opportunity for us to recognise the incredible work nurses do to support our community.

Newly qualified District Nurse and mum of three Sandy Reid has always loved caring for people. She trained as a beauty therapist before moving into the health sector, spending time as a healthcare assistant and in administrative roles at dental and medical centres.

Eventually it was her colleagues at a Nelson medical practice who encouraged her to consider moving from reception to nursing. At age 50, Sandy took the leap and enrolled at NMIT to study nursing full time.

“I’ve always wanted to do nursing; I just didn’t think I was clever enough. I thought it was going to be way too hard, I didn’t do very well at school and then I had kids, then you make all the other excuses. It dawned on me that life is not going to wait for me, so I decided ‘let’s do it’ and I don’t regret it.” It’s something she still pinches herself about.

“I passed my finals in December. It’s still feels like ‘how did I do it?’ but if I can do it, anyone can do it, you just have to be passionate about it. I cannot believe I’m actually getting paid to do something that I love.”

As a District Nurse, Sandy visits people at home in the Nelson community and provides personalised care tailored to each patient. Her work is varied and can include administering medication and supporting patients with complex conditions. She particularly enjoys specialist wound care.

“I love skin, I think that comes from my beauty therapy. It’s such a large organ of the body. It’s pretty awesome to be able to support people as they heal.”

Complex palliative care is also a side of her role that Sandy finds rewarding.

“When I was doing my training in Motueka, I got a lot out of providing palliative care. My role was to set up anything the patient might need –syringe drivers, airbeds or supporting with medication. To know that you were making patients as comfortable as possible was the nicest feeling you could possibly get. Why didn’t I do this earlier on in my life?” she laughs, “I wish I had!”

Sandy started her community work in the Nayland area as part of a team of more than 20 District Nurses who support the Nelson community from Hira to Hope. District nursing is where Sandy sees her future.

“It’s a privilege to be able to go into someone’s home and see how they’re living. It gives you a holistic approach to nursing, you can see how they’re living and you can provide the appropriate support. Recently after I helped a patient, she gave me the

biggest hug and I thought, this is what makes it”.

It’s also working as part of a close-knit team that Sandy really enjoys.

“I’ve got a great team right beside me; if I need anything I can just pick up my phone and someone will be there. It’s a close-knit group between Wakefield, Richmond and Motueka. There’s no nastiness, we all just get in and work as a team. I feel very lucky.”

Overall, it’s the sense of satisfaction that Sandy gets from helping that makes her so passionate about nursing.

“My favourite thing about my role is helping. Knowing that I’m actually making a difference in someone’s life. It doesn’t matter what I’m doing, it could just be a basic thing, but that basic thing can make a huge difference to someone’s life.”

Sandy has a simple message for anyone considering nursing:

“Do it. Don’t hesitate. You don’t just have to do nursing, it’s a broad career. I would encourage anyone to go for it, don’t hold back, life’s too short. When you can make a difference to someone’s life then that is the best reward”.

Are you interested in becoming a nurse?

Find out more at www.nmdhb.govt.nz

Rates could increase by another 2-3 per cent

STAFF REPORTER

Factors “largely outside” of Tasman District Council’s control could hike the proposed rates increase of 9.6 per cent by another 2-3 per cent, the council’s chief financial officer has warned.

“While still below the national average of proposed rate revenue increases, we considered it was important to inform residents as soon as we were made aware of the increased cost pressures and the possible impact on rates,” Mike Drummond says.

The cost pressures include: increased costs of water services and supply maintenance, increased costs associated with the Waimea Community Dam, increased insurance costs, a downturn in forecast revenue from building consents, and a “materially higher” 2023/24 year end deficit, particularly in building control and transport spending due to storm costs.

The council’s 10-Year Plan hearings begin on Wednesday, and though the consultation period has closed those who are already making their submissions in the hearing may wish to amend their submissions in light of the new information. “We feel it is particularly important to make this information known before the submission hearings start.”

The final decision on what the rates rise will be for 2024/25 has not yet been made, but the additional cost pressures will likely influence elected members’ deliberations.

‘Quiet’

SARA HOLLYMAN

‘Quiet’ changes to the Nelson Hospital rebuild have left Nelson MP Rachel Boyack “deeply concerned” for the region’s patients. Documents revealed by 1News on Monday show Te Whatu Ora is now exploring options of a phased approach with a series of smaller buildings rather than a very large single building.

Rachel says it’s not clear what those smaller buildings would be, opposed to the one building that would “meet the needs of the community”.

Rachel says the option of a range of small buildings had already been ruled out by Te Whatu Ora last year.

Bed modeling from 2018 is also being reviewed.

“We approved a significant increase in the number of beds,” Rachel says of Labour’s 1.1b plan for the rebuild. “That would cause me deep concern if we ended up with fewer beds.”

A government review of clinical hospital facilities in 2020 found the George Manson Building to

changes to hospital rebuild

be the worst in the country. The six-storey building and the adjacent Percy Brunette Building were deemed earthquake-prone by engineers, likely to be so damaged in a significant earthquake that they would be unusable. Both buildings were issued notices by Nelson City Council requiring remedial works, with a deadline of November 2028.

“They are incredibly cramped and dated buildings,” Rachel says. “For the people who stay in them, it is not an experience where they are staying in an environment that can help them recover.

“I asked Shane Reti in Parliament last week if he would commit to the project and the full 1.1b cost,” Rachel says. “He could not commit which caused me great con-

cern.”

When questioned in a post-cabinet press conference on Monday, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the health minister has a “huge amount of complex pressures in infrastructure across healthcare” which he will be “taking advice” on.

The Government needs to be clear about the changes it is con-

sidering for the Nelson Hospital rebuild, Labour health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall says.

“After a period of work and research, Te Whatu Ora presented me with a range of options for use of existing and new buildings and selected the clinically preferred option, including a new acute services and inpatient care building,” she says. “I was advised that further review of options would only save cost if we compromised on the clinical capacity we were adding and reduced the clinical capacity of the building. National needs to come clean and state whether they have been advised otherwise, or whether this is just yet another cost-cutting exercise.

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith says the new phased approach could benefit the region.

“I’ve seen Dunedin Hospital has now taken 12 years with the big bang approach, our region can’t wait 12 years,” he says. “I’m assured there’s no reduction from the $72m for design, that money is still available.

“I just want a good outcome for the region.”

Rachel Boyack is concerned about changes to the Nelson Hospital rebuild plan. Photos: Supplied.

Purple volcanoes, alien pigs and towering rocket ships were featured among the clever creations at the latest Brick Club gathering at the Motueka District Library – Te Noninga Kumu. Ben Gerrard and Rowan Elmhirst, both 8, show their space-themed creations, crafted under the gentle tutelage of local LEGO enthusiast Adrian Barbour. The Brick Club meets at 3.30pm on the last Monday of every month, and head librarian Janine Gillions says that they have now ticked over more than 50 sessions. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

‘Road trip from hell’ leads to KidsMap

ANNE HARDIE

A holiday to a family wedding ended in the road trip from hell for a Nelson family with three young children and that led to them developing an app for families travelling with kids.

KidsMap was inspired by Kelsey and Tom Bates’ road trip that flung an eight-hour ferry delay into their journey, followed by Cyclone Gabrielle which threw their planned trip out the window and ended in chaos. They were heading from Nelson to the Far North where Kelsey was to be the celebrant at her mother’s wedding, but didn’t get far before the trip began to turn sour.

“We got to Pelorus and one of the kids threw up and then got to Picton and the ferry was delayed for eight hours. We ended up sitting for three to four hours in the queue waiting, then got to Wellington at 2am. Then we got caught in Cyclone Gabrielle around Auckland and had to turn around.”

It meant they spent hours on Google trying to find unplanned accommodation and child-friendly places to eat, toilet and play safely all in one, which they discovered

was not that easy. Most places that were labelled child-friendly had a highchair and that was about it, Kelsey says.

“Every day I was getting more frustrated and angry.”

They eventually got to the wedding and when they returned to Nelson, decided to create an app for parents to find eating places with kids menus along with good playgrounds and toilet facilities.

Their logo says it all, with an adult on a seesaw holding a steaming cup of coffee and a child playing on the other end.

“We want to make child-friendly New Zealand accessible to fam-

ilies and there’s nothing better than a good cup of coffee while your kids are playing and having fun.”

They started googling potential places, but that took too long, so Kelsey joined all the mum groups and community Facebook groups around New Zealand, requesting recommendations for a family with young children.

“We wanted it all to be from the parent’s perspectives. Now we’re really excited to see some of the places that parents have recommended!”

So far, KidsMap includes more than 100 cafes and 200 playgrounds around New Zealand, and after posting the creation of the app on Facebook the recommendations from parents have been flooding in. Kelsey says, the information will continue to increase on the app and it will get better and better. It’s a free app and down the track they hope to turn it into a business through advertisements.

“It would be nice to get to the stage where it breaks even,” Tom says. “But as parents you don’t want to be paying for apps.”

The couple have created a website to access the app at www.kids map.nz

Tom and Kelsey Bates with their youngest, Zion, 2, now have KidsMap for those family road trips.

Photo: Anne Hardie.

Huia U9 player Mikaere Funnell storms through Stoke U9 defense at Greenmeadows in Stoke as part of the Festival of Rugby on Saturday. The tournament marks the start of the JAB rugby season and saw all players across the region play a series of short games at various home turfs. Photo: Sara Hollyman.

Motueka Bowling tournament success

Results of the Tradies sponsored Two Day Open Triples bowling tournament held Saturday, 5 & Sunday, 6 May. A full field of 32 teams from bowling clubs around the Nelson Tasman district competed for honours in four divisions.

Results from Day Two:

Division 1

1st Chris Alldred, Carolyn Wadswort, Graham Growcroft, a composite team with 3 wins, 22 ends, 45 points.

2nd John Parson, John Hanton, Mike Carter from the Stoke club with 21/2 wins, 24 ends, 37 points.

3rd Lloyd Bellis, Dave Thomason, Bruce Wilson from Stoke club with 21/2 wins, 23 ends, 35 points.

4th Barry Chinnery, Doug Hayward, Steve Ford,

The first day’s play sorted out which division each team would play in on the second day. Fine sunny weather on both days plus two excellent bowling greens allowed bowlers to enjoy some very accurate

a composite team 2 wins, 22 ends, 51 points.

Division 2

1st Alan Griffiths, Dean Wood, John Peterson from the Stoke club with 31/2 wins, 23 ends, 44 points.

2nd Dave Walker, Gus Cuthberson, Ra Walker, from the Richmond club with 3 wins, 25 ends, 51 points.

3rd Mel Mouncey, Al Dudley, Mark Connor, a composite team with 21/2 wins, 20 ends, 43 points.

Division 3 1st Neville Nesbett,

bowling which made for some close results.

The highest qualifying team on day one was Stoke team made up of Lloyd Bellis, Dave Thomason, Bruce Wilson with four wins.

Vince Bloomfield, Brian Ensor, a composite team with 3 wins, 26 ends, 53 points

2nd Stu Petersen, Linda Sistersen, Deb Lloyd, a composite team with 3 wins, 22 ends, 56 points.

3rd Albert Anderson, Pat Newport, Ali Brett, from the Motueka club with 3 wins, 22 ends, 49 points.

Division 4

1st Bill Grey, Graeme Prince, Lynne Rosewarne, from the Motueka club with 21/2 wins, 20 ends, 41 points.

2nd Cherie Legarth, Alisa Waters, Trevor Hodgkinson, a composite team with 2 wins, 23 ends, 41 points.

3rd Heather Quirk, Mike Dickie, Christine Richardson, from the Tahuna club with 2 wins, 23 ends, 36 points.

The sponsors were Think Water Motueka, Hays Plumbing, Electrical Worx, Flooring Extra, and Infield Engineering. The Motueka Bowling Club would like to thank these companies for their sponsorship and support.

NBS Motueka Golf Club results

31; Nelson bye. Premier women: Marist 30 - Moutere 0; Kahurangi 67 - Waimea Old Boys 19. Second division: Stoke 48 - Waimea Old Boys 0; Riwaka 30 - Nelson 28; Huia 50 - Collingwood 0; Marist 3Wanderers 33; Takaka 59 - Murchison 12; Tapawera bye.

Sharks 79 - NBS Nelson Giants 89; Rapid League 28-50. Otago Nuggets 107 - NBS Nelson Giants 94; Rapid League 38-41.

Community Notices

MONDAY

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, Motueka Recreation Gym ‘Functional Fitness Room’, 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.

MOTUEKA HIGHLAND PIPE BAND, Mon, 7pm. Band is located beside Motueka Recreation Centre. Promoting Scottish tradition and culture. We look forward to your participation. More 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.

TUESDAY / WEDNESDAY

MEDITATION & MIND: "Know Thyself", 4 week course, Wed, 6-8PM. 66 Pah Street, Motueka. $40 for course (full refund on completion if not fully satisfied) More info: Ph: Dada, 0225060428

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 very 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.

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.

WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ: Wed, 15 May, 10- 11.30am, Motueka Library. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connec-

tion and finding out about groups, activities and services. Ph: 035467681, www.wellby.org.nz

THE HEART SUPPORT GROUP MOTUEKA meeting, Wed, 15 May, 10:30am, Motueka Library Community Room. Access to this room will be via the Community Room outside door just along from the main door. For info: Ph: Peter Gregory 0218891553.

MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL office at Community House, Decks reserve. Wed, 11-3pm. Inquiries about art activities; funding for Art; Art ideas for Motueka. Ph: 0210589388.

YOGA. If you have or have had cancer, we offer restorative yoga classes. Tues, 12.30pm. Ph: 5287669 or e: maureen.urwin@cancernelson.org.nz to reg. AGE CONCERN TEA & TALK, Every Wed, 10.30am, The Shed, 24a Tudor St. More info Ph: 0279214074.

KNIT & NATTER Wed, 10-12pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Hub, 10 Pah St. Friendly group for all ages. Includes refreshments. Ph: Roz 027415636. All welcome.

WALK 4 HEALTH, Wed, 8.30m, Motueka Community Garden. 30-50 min walk at your own pace, for any age, any fitness and size. Ph:0273015598 or wellontrack@gmail.com

MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL invites all folk interested in community arts in Motueka, to their monthly meetings. 2nd Wed of month, 7pm, community house.

TOASTMASTERS MOTUEKA meet 1st & 3rd Wed of month, 6.45pm start, St John’s rooms, Jack Inglis Hosp, Courtney St. Gain speaking confidently, friendly environment. More Info Ph: Peter 0277468311.

THURSDAY / FRIDAY

THE GREAT AWAKENING" is happening all around us. Thurs, 9 May, 4.30-6.30pm, Revite Cafe, 265 High St, Motueka. Spirited conversation around the "after capitalism" new economy & society. All welcome. More info Ph: Dada 0225060428

MEDITATION, Weekly meditation sessions open to all. Thurs, 12.15-12.45pm, Te Noninga Kumu - Motueka Library. During term time. No registration needed. Just come along. More info: Ph: Louise Petzold 0278789240.

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY

50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: office@topsouthmedia.co.nz

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 every Thurs. More info Ph: 0212640403 e: secretary50pluswalkers@gmail.com, or www. motueka50pluswalkers.org.nz.

MOTUEKA LIGHTHOUSE Spiritual Group. Meet, last Thurs of month, 7-9pm, Motueka Community House, Opposite the ISite. Everyone welcome. Donation Appreciated. e: angel3000.h@ gmail.com or www.facebook.com/lighthousemotueka.

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.

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meet 1st Thurs of the month, 1.30-3.30pm, Broadgreen House, 276 Nayland Rd. Ph: Bill 035448635 or 035391137.

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, The Genealogy Interest Group meets 2nd Fri, 2pm. Ph: Allan ‭0279711100 or visit www.seniornetmotueka.org.nz

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

CELTIC PIPE BAND CEILIDH DANCE, Sat, 25 May, 7-9pm, Nayland College Hall. Immerse yourself in an evening of vibrant Traditional Scottish Dancing and Music. Indulge in the spirit of the Highlands with our Licensed Bar featuring Whiskey, while relishing a delightful Haggis & light Supper. Don your Kilt, Highland dress, Tartan Accessories. Tickets from Richmond Mall Info Desk. MEDITATION, CHANTING & TALK, Sat (until 8 Jun), 5-7pm, 66 Pah St, Motueka. All welcome. For info Ph: Dada 0225060428 Koha.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Sat, 10-12pm, Motueka Library. Free

services, including copy certification and witnessing signatures are available.

NELSON BRANCH OF ROYAL NZ AIRFORCE ASSOCIATION

Meet 2nd Sat each month, 12pm, Club Waimea, Richmond, Phil’s Restaurant. Interesting speakers, raffles and members interested in Aviation Ph: Trever Squires 039706644 or John Bethwaite 035476634. Cost of meal $25

GENERAL GROUPS

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.

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.

COMMUNITY HARAKEKE WEAVING project by Motueka Art Council is on now at the Library daily till Christmas, everyone can contribute as we weave a tree of putiputi. Special sessions for beginners wanting to learn. Free event.

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

RIWAKA CROQUET CLUB, do you and a group of friends/ family/workmates want to spend a fun few hours learning to play croquet? You need a minimum 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.

SENIORNET MOTUEKA Take advantage of the many interest groups offered. Join SeniorNet Motueka. To join, visit www.seniornetmotueka.org.nz, or Ph: Allan 0279711100.

MOTUEKA MENZSHED, Wed or Thurs 9-12pm, MenzShed, Marchwood Park, College Rd. We have a variety of projects on the go, come and see for yourself. e: secretarymotmenzShed@ gmail.com or just turn up.

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.

RED CROSS MOTUEKA BRANCH Fundraising shop, open Mon – Fri, 10-2pm. Community House, Decks Reserve. We sell clothing, household linen and books. Donations of sellable goods are appreciated.

SURVIVORS AND THRIVERS GROUP, if you have or have had cancer, or supported someone else, come and connect. Reg maureen.urwind@cancernelson.org.nz or 5287669.

MULTICULTURAL MOTUEKA welcomes migrants and refugees every Tues & Fri, 8.30 -1pm, 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.

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. 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.

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

MOTUEKA NEWCOMERS New to Motueka? We’re a social group, mostly retired (50+) who meet regularly and welcome newcomers. More info Ph: Jana 035284355. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS. Is alcohol causing problems for your life? Want to stop drinking but can’t? Maybe 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.

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.

Final race decides National Series winner

JACK MALCOLM

Wills Harvey has moved his whole life around in pursuit of racing motocross.

At 17 years old, his gamble to leave school and move up to Taupo has paid off in spades after he raced to first place in the Senior 125cc New Zealand MX Championship Series.

Riding almost daily in one of the country’s hubs for the sport, alongside being centrally based for all four rounds of the championship series, Wills and his Yamaha YZ125 were in peak performance for the series.

And he’s got some pretty experienced pedigree in his corner, with his bike built up by former World number two Josh Coppins.

Josh, who raced in the Motocross World Championships from 1993 to 2012, has taken the younger rider under his wing, with Wills a JCR (Josh Coppins Racing) supported rider this season.

“He’s full of knowledge. Money can’t buy what he has,” says Wills.

Murray Thorn Motorcycles Motueka have also been a driving force for Wills, having jumped on board several years ago after seeing his talent.

“He picked me up maybe three years ago and I hoped on a Yamaha. I’ve been under his wing since then, helping me out and guiding me.”

After winning the first round of the national series, two third-place weekends in Balclutha and Pukekohe set the stage for a dramatic finish for the young racer. Coming into the last event in Taranaki, Wills was behind and knew that he’d have to finish first in all three races to win the New Zealand title.

“I had to have a perfect day because I was that far down on points, I had to win all my races,” he says.

And he was perfect, snatching back the top spot to sit on 267 championship points, just two points clear of second place.

“I was definitely more nervous coming into the last race knowing if I won that I could win. If I got second, then those two races beforehand would have been for nothing. There was heaps of pressure on.”

Wills got his first bike for Christmas when he was seven years old and is the only one in the family who rides.

“When I was young, I didn’t have any exposure or anything like that. . . I just always kept nagging them, wanting one.

“Growing up, I was pretty sporty. I did rugby and all sorts, gave everything a go, but motocross was always the focus.”

Wills’ schedule sees him have an extended break ahead of his next big race in October, but he’s not going to sit idly by.

He’s already back at home and on the bike, looking to learn the ropes and getting up to speed on a 250cc four-stroke before he heads off to Australia to continue chasing his dreams.

Wills Harvey is already back in town and on the bike with his newly-minted 1NZ racing number after he picked up the Senior 125cc New Zealand MX Championship Series title. Photo: Henry Jaine.