Marlborough Magazine January 2022

JANUARY 2022

PLACE FRONT COVER HERE

MARLBOROUGH’S

MOUNT’N UP

PLUS: A passion and a dream | More on the menu

January 2021

What’s inside Features 7–9

MARLBOROUGH’S MOUNT’N UP

15– 17

COOKING UP SOME PRACTICAL HELP

20-29

A DAY TO REMEMBER 20-29

40-49

BUILDING MARLBOROUGH’S FIRST PASSIVE HOME

Regular 31

On the Street

37-39

My Home

48-49

Art and Culture

51

What’s On

52–53

Social Pages

54

Gardening

55

Recipe

7–9

40-49

15–17

Editor’s Note

He l l o LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE IN 2022!

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Happy New Year! Oh how exciting it is to think what prospects 2022 could bring.

Marlborough Magazine is excited to share stories from around Marlborough this month with a focus on positivity and giving back, a theme that is likely to be on a few New Year resolution lists.

We catch up with some inspirational women who have created a charitable trust, tasked with providing opportunities for RSE workers when they head back to their families. Not only is this giving back to our community, but reaching far beyond our shores to benefit others, now that is pretty amazing. If you know a child that you think has the makings to be the next Dave Grohl or simply has an

If your veins are causing you discomfort, or stopping you from living the lifestyle you would like...

ear for music, a local theatre star is setting up a music haven to encourage and develop the musical talents of our youth in Marlborough. We also can’t forget our furry friends who are also getting spoilt thanks to lovers of the four legged kind.

And, if your special person has recently popped the question, be sure to check out our wedding showcase with heap of ideas to help with planning your special day.

There’s plenty to enjoy within these pages, so take some time out and relax, so you can put your best foot forward this year.

Summa

EDITOR Summa Donald summa@marlboroughmedia.co.nz DESIGN Patrick Connor and Toni Woolf

WE CAN HELP! JANUARY 2022

CONTRIBUTORS Renée Lang, Matt Brown, Peter Jones, Sarah Brown, Joya Devine, David James, Ruth Thompson, Karen Rankin, Jared Buckley, Keelan Walker.

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Rosa Tate rosa@marlboroughmedia.co.nz Gemma Bartlett gemma@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

MARLBOROUGH’S

MOUNT’N UP

PLUS: A passion and a dream | More on the menu

Cover: A day to remember.

Pages 20-27.

Jessica Jones Photography

DISTRIBUTION Phil and Paula Brown, Wendy Aberthenthy.

PUBLISHER TSM Marlborough, 52 Scott St, Blenheim www.topsouthmedia.co.nz

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Marlborough’s mount’n up T

Words: Peter Jones

ourism promoters term it “Marlborough’s Brilliant Backyard” - and what better way to explore it than on a mountain bike.

Looming large above Blenheim, is the Wither Hills Mountain Bike Park, which is accessible, varied and hugely popular with both club and recreational riders.

This region may be small in area, but it has a myriad of scattered bike trails designed to suit riders of all abilities. Whether it’s a multi-day wilderness trail, a quick cross-country venture, or an adrenaline-fuelled downhill, you are spoiled for choice when you mount up in Marlborough.

Although the park is on Marlborough District Council land, many of its trails have been formed and are continually being maintained by the MMBC.

Both recreational and competitive mountain bikers are well catered for. The Marlborough Mountain Bike Club [MMBC] is a vibrant, hard-working group who provide both competitive and non-competitive opportunities for riders of all ages and skill levels all year round.

The club has been in operation since 1998 when it split from the Marlborough Multisport Club due to growth in the sport. The club was “reborn” in 2007 with formal rules and a committee, according to treasurer and committee member Neil Sinclair.

“Mountain biking in the late 1990s was a relatively new thing so, since then, the sport’s growth has been phenomenal,”

Marlborough mountain biker Cam Clemett at the Homebrook Enduro Track.

JARED BUCKLEY

7

said Neil. “We now have between 500 to 600 members, including our family members.”

He described the Wither Hills as “our entry-level home”, most tracks being classed as easy or intermediate.

“For certain club races, such as the recent under-12 enduro, we would use the Wither Hills, but when we go to our more advanced racing our main tracks are in the Taylor Pass Forest network or on Homebrook, Graham and Anne Cooper’s property.

“We would probably class Homebrook as our new home. It has our downhill track, which was especially developed for the 2021 national secondary schools champs, and an enduro track, which cater for our members who are probably more at the intermediate, advanced end.”

Access to both the Taylor Pass Forest and Homebrook facilities is limited to MMBC members, explained Neil, being part of an agreement between the club and the landowners.

MMBC has an excellent working relationship with Aussieowned forestry giant OneFortyOne Plantations, who own various forestry blocks around Marlborough, including the Taylor Pass Forest and generously allow MMBC to build tracks on some plantations.

The MMBC stage around 40 to 50 events annually – including cross country, enduro and downhill races and casual riding opportunities like the Soup and Bun series. Neil says they offer “something for everyone”, all year round.

Like any sport, participation at teenage level is a firm indicator of popularity and on-going appeal. In recent years, competitive mountain bikers from local schools have enjoyed some serious success, claiming a string of medals at Tasman, South Island and national levels.

After the scheduled Cycling New Zealand Schools Champs in October were canned due to Covid regulations, Marlborough were granted the rights to stage the 2023 champs. Well over 600 individual riders are expected to attend.

“Over the past three years numbers attending the various nationals championships have almost doubled,” explained Neil.

“There has just been a huge, huge increase in interest in mountain biking and, while it is a good problem for the sport to have, it makes running the big events challenging.”

Another exciting development on the MMBC’s radar is the creation of a “Skills Park” in the Gentle Annie area of the Wither Hills Park.

Ian Thomas, front, and other members of MMBC building tracks for local riders at Homebrook.

“Baby boomers, Covid … I think when Covid first hit people got their old bikes out of the shed and enjoyed riding again, which has transferred into upgrading to new stuff and that’s taken off.

“Bike technology has also moved on … a modern mountain bike is so easy to pedal. Fifteen years ago you probably wouldn’t have dreamed of riding a mountain bike up Foster’s Clearing, it was a walking trail, now you just go and ride up there.

“The infrastructure around the country is much better now too.

There are more tracks and trails opening up all the time, which gets more people involved.

“DOC have also been better, allowing us to take our bikes onto these trails, which has to be good for them because they are getting more people into their areas, using their huts.”

Brendon suggests the arrival of the e-bike has “transformed the lives” of some of the people he meets through the cycle shop.

“There is an opportunity to develop what I would consider New Zealand’s best Skills Park for mountain biking … we have resource consent and designs drawn up. It has the potential to be an amazing asset. We are just waiting on sign off from Council.”

“So many of our customers have never ridden a bike in their lives. Then they have hopped on an e-bike and it has changed their life – mentally, physically, there are so many other benefits from it.”

Sales soaring

Yearly upgrades are commonplace, to keep pace with the latest technology, although some e-bikers are getting the most out of their current rides.

Brendon Clemett, owner/operator of Blenheim business Cycle World for the past five years, has noticed a distinct shift in the cycling landscape in recent times.

He cites the case of an 84-year-old customer who came in to get his speedo fixed.

“Mountain bikes make up the vast majority of our business these days,” he says, “with 70 percent of sales coming through e-bikes.

“His speedo was fine. Basically what had happened was that he had run out of zeroes,” explained Brendon. “It had flicked over 10,000km, and he did that in nine months.”

“Turnover in mountain bikes has seen continual growth, with full suspension mountain, hard tail mountain … but e-bikes are definitely taking over.”

“It’s totally addictive too. People are going out on group rides, then they have a coffee together … some are doing it every day of the week, some three days a week, but it’s definitely addictive.”

There are several reasons for that situation, according to Brendon.

8

January 2022

A recreational and sometimes-competitive mountain biker over the past decade, Brendon says “the adrenaline rush associated with going fast” is what draws him back.

“Then you get the buzz of trying out new places around the country and being out in the fresh air. Some of the races I have done have been in areas that you would never think you could get to, which is pretty cool.”

“In Marlborough everything is pretty close at hand, so it is actually easier to get around town in some cases. We are getting cycle paths and the [proposed] Whale Trail from Picton to Kaikoura will be incredible.

“I think we will eventually get people commuting from Picton on e-bikes, which should take them around half an hour. It would be quite a good wind-down after work,” he added with a smile.

He also points to the eco-benefits associated with travelling by bike and envisages that being another factor in the growth of two-wheeled transport.

MARLBOROUGH MOUNTAIN BIKING VENUES: Wither Hills Farm Park (various tracks - council-owned, maintained by MMC).

Mainly beginner and intermediate single track up hill and downhill trails. Maximum elevation 220m Mt Vernon Loop Accessed via Wither Hills MTB Park or the Mapp Track. Intermediate loop with great views over Blenheim. An intermediate 11km loop with 600m of climbing.

Homebrook (privately-owned – MMBC members only). Advanced Enduro and Downhill tracks.

Taylor Pass Forest (privately-owned – MMBC members only). A network of Intermediate to Advanced tracks.

Queen Charlotte Track (Ship Cove to Anakiwa - 72km). Mainly Intermediate level with some steep ascents and descents.

Approximately 2500m of climbing for the full track, but there are options to join the track at different locations. Note that a QC Pass is required to ride some sections of this track.

Link Pathway (42km – Picton to Havelock): Beginner level, but some challenging climbs. Approximately 700m of climbing along the whole track Waikakaho (33km). Intermediate multi-use track with some rocky sections and 850m of climbing. There are some abandoned gold mining tunnels to explore

Wakamarina Track (45km). Advanced track with technical sections and steep switchbacks. Best written from South to North. An intermediate option is to ride to Fosters Clearing which is Intermediate.

Avoid when wet due to clay corners.

Nydia Track (Kaiuma Bay to Tennyson Inlet - 27km). Advanced track with technical sections and steep climbs. 1,300m of climbing. Avoid when wet if possible.

Opouri Bridle Track (Opouri Saddle to Duncan Bay 0 5km). A fun intermediate descent with great views over the Marlborough Sounds. Often ridden before starting the Nydia Track.

Whites Bay Loop (12km). An advanced 20km loop track which demands a good level of fitness and confidence due to technical descents. A steep 600m climb.

There is also an Expert Downhill Track Double Eagle for the adventurous.

Teetotal Tracks (St Arnaud). A small network of intermediate and advanced tracks in native bush near to St Arnaud.

Great riding in native bush.

Archer Track (Penzance Bay to Elaine Bay – 9km). An intermediate track with great views into the Marlborough Sounds.

Pukaka Valley An advanced Downhill track which requires permission from Merill and Ring to access.

Havelock Downhill An Intermediate to Advanced Downhill track with descents of 550m.

Conder’s Bend. A fun beginners family friend loop next to the Wairau River. Great entry level single riding for families or beginners. A flat 5km loop.

Awapiri Station (Awatere Valley). A mixture of Farm Tracks. Only open during advertised open days.

Victoria Domain (including the Kanuka Trail) (Picton). A small network of beginner and Intermediate Tracks on the Snout.

Tracks include some technical downhills or easier single track descends. Intermediate riders will enjoy the intermediate Kanuka Trial which allows riding to the end of the Snout.

Black Birch Track (Awatere Valley). A challenging beginner ride 13km long with 1,500m of vertical ascent.

Rainbow Track (St Arnaud to Hanmer Springs - 112km, 1,400 vertical climbing).

A touring route mainly down roads.

More details on most tracks including photos and video footage is available via the Trail Forks app.

Middle Hill MTB Park (near Waipapa Bay, 40km from Kaikoura). A mixture of intermediate, advanced and expert hand build single track. Best shuttled with bookings via the Middle Hill website.

Happy New Year Marlborough I trust you’ve had a relaxing and enjoyable holiday.

A new year brings different goals, ambitions and plans - which may include the need to upgrade, downsize or move to other parts of the country.

I would love the opportunity to speak with you and help you with your plans for 2022, so please get in touch for a confidential discussion today.

Angus Mann +64 27 374 3243 angus.mann@nzsir.com

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RUTH THOMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Marlborough Four Paws major sponsor Liz Buttimore, left, with lead trustee Michelle Madsen enjoying snuggles with some of their foster kittens.

A hand for Four Paws It takes passion to run a successful restaurant but getting involved on a voluntary basis in the establishment of a physical animal rescue facility takes passion to another level.

L

Words: Renée Lang

iz Buttimore is the face of Arbour, one of Blenheim’s best known and highly rated restaurants which last year chose to sponsor Marlborough Four Paws.

“We really liked the way they were completely active,” says Liz of her business’s decision to sponsor the animal rescue group which has registered charity status. “Every bit of money we fundraise always goes direct to ground level.”

Liz’s involvement started when she began fostering kittens for the group. These kittens, of which there can be many depending on the time of year, are almost always born to stray cats, which Marlborough Four Paws co-founder Michelle, rescue volunteer Cheryl and many others go to great lengths to capture in order to treat, desex and rehabilitate them. “It’s about getting them off the streets to protect the bird life,” Liz says.

However, it soon became clear that some kind of premises were needed, which led to Liz offering to build a site. Then Michelle was able to source three really good-sized animal enclosures from an animal boarding facility that had closed down. But where were they going to put them? The hunt was on to find a suitable site for the facility, which didn’t take long given the determination of everyone involved and the Blenheim facility opened in December.

It’s taken a lot of hard work on the part of the volunteers along with some amazing help from the business community,

including the support of the Marlborough District Council, to construct the facility from the ground up. All up there are currently 50 business sponsors, each of which will be acknowledged on the fence that surrounds and protects the site, as well as in various print media advertisements and on the imminent website. And on the tools? Support in one form or another has come from David Gill Construction, Liz’s partner Benji Smith, the Alderlieste and Asplet families, Eileen Stewart, Brendan Sutherland, Arbour owner Bradley Hornby and Jackson Matthews. Team members from Te Whare Ra Wines, Folium Wines, Feast Merchants, Gramado's, Framingham and Arbour also need to be mentioned in dispatches and, of course, the Marlborough Four Paws trustees. It all adds up to around $200,000 worth of sponsorship, which is a pretty impressive achievement.

And it hasn’t stopped there. Many new and even ongoing business sponsors continue to be willing to help and regularly contact Liz to offer further practical support.

Clearly a project like this needs ongoing help and Marlborough Four Paws would welcome donations in the form of food, kitty litter, petrol and supermarket vouchers and, of course, financial assistance.

If you can help, Liz and the other volunteers would love to hear from you: Email them at marlboroughfourpaws@gmail.com

11

Brian and Nicky Simpson have taken their 'side-hustle' to new heights.

A passion and a dream Words and photos: Matt Brown

N

ear the end of an unassuming cul-de-sac in central Blenheim, an entrepreneurial couple have transformed a passion for models into a successful side-hustle.

Brian Simpson is a volunteer firefighter; he’s been one for more than 20 years.

And his love for collecting model fire engines is just as enduring.

Just over a year ago, Brian and his wife, Nicky, encouraged by others interest in his burgeoning collection decided to chase a dream – opening a toy shop.

“We used to look at the odd model and buy it,” Brian says.

“We would find different ones from my daughter in Australia.

We would find other, different models from my son in Ireland.

But shelves packed with models, from the Ghostbusters iconic ghost busting wagon to classic Ford Model T’s, are all loaded on their locally-made website; they’re proud to say there’s something for every vehicle enthusiast (and if not, they can get it).

Nicky, who manages the Blenheim branch of Kiwibank, says the collectible business is going very well.

“We started small, with not many overheads,” she says.

“It’s nice seeing it successful and Brian’s passion come alive.

“And it’s still manageable while working full time.”

“People would comment, wow, where did you get that?”

Brian works as parts manager at Norwood – a job he says isn’t too different to sourcing collectibles for enthusiasts around the world.

Now, 14 months on, their small side hustle is a big side hustle – the couple moving hundreds of models each month from the front sitting room of their Blenheim home.

Their passion for the small business has recently paid dividends, with the couple taking out a small business award and $10,000 prize money – money spent on more collectibles.

Running under the moniker, Grandpa Simpson’s Collectibles, Brian reckons his dream of owning a toy store is close to realised.

“We wrote about the passion we had for toys,” Nicky says.

Two beautiful wooden antique cabinets, which would usually hold barely-used crystal or antiques, are packed full of fire engines. Brian’s collection of Dennis F8 fire engines, each from a different crew from around the world, aren’t for sale.

“It was our lucky day.

12

January 2022

Grandpa Simpson’s Collectibles was one of five Small Business Day NZ winners out of more than 700 entries.

“It fit every category they were looking at,” she says.

Brian thought it was a scam at first.

“The prize money in May means we could do some bigger orders,” he says. “It catapulted the business to the next level.”

Nicky says the business was very small up until that point.

Brian’s been collecting model vehicles since he was a lad with a bit of money burning a hole in his pocket.

He started out with Matchbox cars, but says when he joined the fire brigade, he switched his focus to fire engines.

A former senior firefighter, there’s been a firefighter in every generation of Simpson since 1861 – more than 350 years of combined service.

“I was a senior firefighter, but I push a pen now,” Brian laughs.

“I still enjoy turning up and the banter, but it’s a busy life.”

Instead of springing into action when the sirens sound, now Brian spends hours trawling through collectible websites looking for the perfect product his customers will love.

“We like to have an eclectic range,” Nicky says. “But it’s really hard trying to guess what people like.

“We get a lot of models from movies, like The Godfather, Breaking Bad, Kill Bill and Ghostbusters.

“We try and find stuff we haven’t seen here.”

Brian says the Coca Cola trucks are fast movers, never sitting on the shelf for long.

“Guys are into anything oil related,” he says as he casts his eyes around the room for an example, which he quickly finds.

The couple are looking forward to the borders opening and being able to visit the children and grandchildren overseas; and maybe squeeze a few toy shows in at the same time.

Brian's collection of toy fire engines are his pride and joy.

“We would love to travel to our UK wholesalers,” Nicky says.

Australian toy shows are on the bucket list, even though the suppliers over there aren’t quite yet playing ball.

“You see the pictures online, but when you get it – you go, wow. That’s cool.”

It’s just a matter of time, though, Brian says.

Nicky says running a toy business is quite simply fun.

“Australia has a lot more Ford and Holden stuff.

“We leave our day job and come home and play.”

“We had a go at a few big deals in the UK and they sold well,” he says.

Check out Grandpa Simpson’s Collectibles online at grandpasimpsonscollectibles.co.nz

13

KEELAN WALKER

Founding members of the Village to Village Charitable Trust, Sarah Bates, Tracy Atkin and Alex Barton.

Cooking up some practical help For around seven months of each year the population in our region swells by a significant number as a result of the arrival of Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers from the Pacific Islands. A local charity aims to ensure the workers go home with more than a paycheck as Renée Lang finds out.

F

or many of the Pacific Islanders who spend months working in our vineyards the rewards are obvious – an opportunity to gain experience in the viticulture and horticulture industries and earn enough money to take home with them at the end of each season.

Marlborough recognised that any help that could be given to the workers in the context of resources, technology, funding and education that they could take home with them could make a real difference. And so the Village to Village Charitable Trust was founded.

Their hard-earned dollars go a long way towards improving life for their families and communities who for the most part live without the facilities and technology that we in New Zealand take for granted.

Sarah Bates, her mother Jill Moorhouse, Tracy Atkin and Alex Barton had all been mentors on the Entrepreneurial Women with Purpose Impact Education Programme run by Catherine van der Meulen during which time they mentored seven women from Vanuatu in business skills including financial literacy leading to those women going on to create a small business of their own.

Although the RSE scheme has been in place for some years now, it was only in late 2019 that several businesswomen in

People helping people.

At BDO Marlborough we put people first, that’s why we’re supporting the Village to Village Charitable Trust by providing our accounting and advisory services free of charge.

RSE workers are vital to the success of our Viticulture Industry, and we’re proud to work with the Trust to make a positive impact on their communities at home.

15

For Sarah and the team it was a no brainer to then see how they could extend their efforts to create social, economic and environmental impacts in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

One of the ways in which the trust helps is through supplying cook stoves for the women to take back to the islands. Traditionally cooking in the villages is done over open fires, which can not only lead to health issues affecting the eyes of women and children, but it can also compromise the respiratory system of those who are exposed on a longterm basis.

battery runs a fan that causes the fire to ‘gasify’ and burn away any smoke. The battery also supports a LED light and a charger for a cell phone or small tablet.”

The principle is not unlike the thermette, patented by a New Zealand electrical engineer back in 1929, and which went on to be used by many families back in the day on camping holidays.

“All boxed up and ready to go, the unit only weighs five kilograms,” says Sarah, making it relatively easy for women to incorporate into their luggage when they fly home to the islands.

Another advantage that these effective little cook stoves have over open fires is that they do not require very much

The provision of cook stoves is the trust’s first community initiative but is definitely not the last. in the way of fuel. “The fuel consumption is actually 70% less than an open fire and because twigs and dry coconut husks burn beautifully, there’s no need to cut down trees in the precious rain forests,” notes Sarah. “Obviously climate change is a huge factor in the Pacific so if we can introduce more of these sustainable technologies, that’s great.”

Cook stove provided by the Village to Village Charitable Trust.

“This particular initiative is around clean cooking,” Sarah explains. “In the beginning the women had to pay for the stoves themselves but the sponsors [which largely come from within the viticulture and horticulture industries] now cover these costs as well as help build the community fund so more can be done.”

So what is a cook stove? Sarah describes it as “a little unit in which a fire can be built inside and which comes with a battery that can be recharged through a solar panel. The

The provision of cook stoves is the Trust’s first community initiative but is definitely not the last. While the workers are here they are encouraged to talk about the things that are important for them back home. Running water is a high priority as are composting toilets, all initiatives that the Trust is keen to support as much as possible.

Getting as many of the employers involved as possible is not only a good thing as far as practical sponsorship is concerned, but Sarah says it’s also good for them to learn more about their workers. This can be a two-way street as the workers, in turn, can find out more about the business they are involved with.

This knowledge, as Sarah and her team discovered during their time of mentoring, can lead to various micro business ideas not least because what everyone has in common is that they are all in the business of growing food of one kind and another. Up until relatively recently, many of the workers never saw any aspect of the wine industry other than the activity they were specifically involved in, eg picking grapes. Learning what happens to those grapes and seeing the end result gives much more of a satisfying whole picture outcome.

“It’s a nice way for those vineyard owners and other employers to get to know their RSE workers,” says Sarah, “and it furthers that whole village-to-village concept”.

Participants of the Impact Education Programme.

The Trust is looking to sponsor more RSE workers, and they invite contractors, growers, and wineries to come on board and support their workers to be part of the clean cook stove initiative and future community initiatives. They currently have a group of 15 women being mentored on the Impact Education programme who are looking for sponsorship.

Anyone who would like to learn more about the project is encouraged to contact the team by calling 027 464 8894 or visiting the website v2v.org.nz Financial Literacy session with Alex from BDO Marlborough.

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January 2022

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More on the menu Words: Renée Lang

With 27 cookbooks under her belt, several of which have sold well in excess of 100,000 copies, 16 years at the helm of Living Today/The Foodtown Magazine and an ongoing syndicated food column, Jan Bilton’s name will be well known to many readers.

S

he’s also no slouch at promoting her beloved Marlborough, teaming up with her husband, Michael Ryan, and wine writer Belinda Jackson a few years ago to write and publish Marlborough on the Menu, which went on to win Best Food/Wine Guide in the 2010 Le Cordon Bleu World Food Media Awards.

“Michael and I work very well together. We do our own photography and we design our own books.”

Although neither of them are born and bred locals, they quickly fell in love with the easy lifestyle that the Top of the South offered when they moved down from Auckland in 2007. A relatively brief interlude in the Waikato township of Cambridge for family reasons followed, but in July this year they moved back to Blenheim and are absolutely delighted

to be back. They left their mark on the Waikato, though, through their publication of Taste Waikato, a fundraising book for Rotary, which they managed to complete in just six months. Although that kind of pressure is not ideal, on the plus side, they did at least get to visit parts of the region they’d never seen before in their quest to interview a wide range of food producers.

Given the changes that have occurred in the wine and food industry in the years since Marlborough on the Menu was published, Jan and Michael would not turn away from the possibility of publishing a new edition. “Yes, I’d like to do that,” says Jan. “I’d make it a bigger book this time as the first one was designed for tourists to easily slip into their luggage.

But these days I think people are more attracted to larger books with larger photographs and so on.” It helps that they also know a lot more people in the region now, including winemakers so as Jan says, “it would be a much easier task”.

One of Jan’s most enduring successes was her New Zealand Kiwifruit Cookbook in which she promoted kiwifruit and other New Zealand foods in the USA, Canada, Asia and Australia.

After being turned down by several publishers, Jan decided to go it alone and self-published the first edition in the early 1980s. She sold 10,000 copies in the first month. It went on to enjoy three new editions and at the time Jan sold the lucrative Japanese rights, total English language sales were around the 140,000 mark. Sales of her first microwave cookbook, published by Whitcoulls in 1986 followed by The New Zealand Microwave Cookbook published by Viking Penguin a couple of years later achieved similar numbers.

Nowadays they are loving being back in Marlborough. “My kitchen window looks out over the Wither Hills Farm Park with its amazing numbers of quail and beautiful trees – and the occasional sheep.”

Speaking of her kitchen, Jan laughs somewhat ruefully. “What I really wanted this time around was a scullery [a large pantry with a workbench and a sink] with a house attached. But I’ve ended up in a house with the smallest pantry I’ve ever owned.

It’s different to other houses we’ve owned in other ways, too, in that all the rooms are a lot smaller so that it’s quite cosy.”

While there’s not a new or revised cookbook in the offing just now, Jan is kept busy writing her syndicated weekly column which appears in 10 different newspapers throughout the country. She’s also in demand as a recipe developer for a range of food products and has occasionally done PR work for new restaurants as required.

Jan Bilton reading her book, Marlborough on the Menu.

Each of her weekly columns features four recipes and several photographs, which requires quite a lot of planning and, of course, cooking. Fair to say, there is no rest for this food connoisseur.

19

Your wedding day will be one of the most memorable of your life, so picking the right venue, hairdresser, makeup, ring, dress, food, cake, entertainment and photographer are the final pieces to your perfect day. To help with the decisions this engagement season Marlborough Magazine takes a look at some of the best local businesses in the region who can help bring your ideas to fruition and make your day one to remember.

Christian + Camille Married in Oyster Bay. Marlborough Sounds DAVID JAMES

To book David for your special day, check out davidjames.studio

Wedding Feature Choosing forever rings

Flowers grown with passion and love

Once upon a time, choosing wedding rings was a quick decision, often made during the hustle-bustle of big day planning, and emotionally eclipsed by the spotlightgrabbing engagement ring.

Against a backdrop of mountains and vineyards in the lush Wairau Valley, a local couple’s passion for flower growing helps make weddings uniquely special. It’s been a year since Euan and Nicola first took over Verve Flowers and they have been working tirelessly ever since to ensure the best quality flowers and foliage possible. “Using organic principles, our seasonal, locally grown product can be supplied directly to florists or they are available for D.I.Y weddings. What Verve offer is a range of interesting blooms – a lovely palette of colours and textures with lots of personality and character.

They also offer fun workshop facilities on the farm which would be ideal for pre wedding activities such as wreath making and floral arranging.” Contact Euan and Nicola for further details. Visit www.verveflowers.co.nz.

Not so now, says Halfdan Hansen, owner of Nelson-based Jens Hansen Jewellers, which handcrafts wedding and engagement rings for clients worldwide.

“Today, many couples want wedding rings that reflect the style of their custom engagement ring,” Hansen says. “This creates a ring set that’s unique to the couple and features a shared design sensibility. Essentially, the rings are made to be together.”

“Wedding rings of the past were usually plain gold bands, but contemporary custom designs often include diamonds and other gems,” says Hansen. Engravings are increasingly popular, allowing couples to celebrate their promise with meaningful words in their chosen language.

“After all, your rings are highly symbolic. You’ll wear them forever, so it’s important you love them.”

A magical garden wedding venue Choosing a wedding venue that suits the style of the occasion is particularly important. A popular choice is Woodend Gardens and Vineyards, a private rural property just five minutes north of Blenheim. Its curved driveway with blue agapanthas sets a stunning scene for the established gardens which are filled with century-old eucalyptus trees, liquidamber trees, dogwoods, flowering chestnuts, magnolias and gleditsias. A remarkable wisteria covered pergola leads to an open paved timber pavilion, providing a perfect shelter for invited guests.

The world record for the longest kiss is 50 hours, 35 minutes, and 58 seconds!

This was during the ‘Kissing Marathon’ held at Ripley’s Museum in Pattaya.

DAVID JAMES

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• 5mins drive from Blenheim • Beautiful Gardens for photographs • Large outdoor covered area

w w w. j e n s h a n s e n . c o . n z

03 548 0640

Wedding Feature A peaceful space for your wedding preparation Sydne Lane Mind+Body, which recently opened last November on the corner of Battys Road and New Renwick Road, is owned by well-known local businesswoman Karen Sydne (Scott.)

As a qualified beauty therapist/hairdresser, Karen has always had a love for the beauty industry and a passion of caring for clients.

Along with her qualifications as a hypnotherapist and highperformance business/life coach, she can offer the complete nurturing mind and body package for overall well-being.

Are you thinking about getting married or is it time to start the planning process? Don’t let this be a stressful experience, Karen can help you relax and take care of your overall wellbeing, to look good and feel great so you can put your best foot forward on your special day. Whether it’s to get you in a positive mindset, or to help you ensure your day is perfect, Karen can help with getting both the mind and body ready.

Wine on wheels for your wedding Mother and daughter duo Mandy and Anna Matthews are excited to offer you The Vino Van, a mobile wine cart at your wedding or special event.

Anna’s plans to be a nanny in Canada were derailed by Covid, so she set up her own events business, Events by Anna. The Vino Van felt like a logical addition for the pair who have always loved entertaining.

Set up to run two kegs and with a large chiller, non-wine drinkers need not be dissuaded as craft beers, cider and alcoholic lemonade are popular options that can be served alongside the wines.

As the van is currently not licensed, Mandy and Anna’s service centers around their serving of the drinks from the retro van, meaning the client provides their own alcohol. However, the two of them can provide non-alcoholic options such as fruitinfused water and non-alcoholic punch.

“We also offer a great selection of skincare products including the Pure Fiji range and Matis Paris, a favourite of mine I have used for over 15 years. They’re beautiful, silky smooth creams that turn back time – it’s like botox in a bottle and sure to help you get wedding ready,” says Karen.

Events by Anna can also offer food platters and decorations to work in conjunction with the beverages.

Karen, along with beauty therapist Courtney Corcoran– James, offers a full range of beauty services including gel nails/toenails, eyelash extensions, waxing and spray tanning, facials, eyelash/eyebrow tinting.

However, it can be powered by a generator if necessary, meaning it doesn’t have to be plugged in.

Karen and Courtney look forward to welcoming you to the clinic where you can relax, have a tea or coffee and enjoy being pampered.

Based in Blenheim and serving Marlborough, Nelson, Kaikoura and the Sounds, the van normally runs off power provided onsite.

“Technically, it can go anywhere you can drive into!” says Mandy, “It’s light to move, so it can be used outside or inside, such as in a marquee.”

“It’s a great way to meet people and provide a fun experience to our clients and their guests.”

Handcrafted jewellery design

The longest marriage was 86 years and 290 days. Herbert and Zelmyra were married on 13 May 1924 in North Carolina, USA

From the beautiful round brilliant cut, to a stunning Emerald Cut, or a more unusual asscher cut diamond, Michelle Rosthorn can source the perfect diamond for the perfect engagement ring. Be it a classic solitaire engagement ring, a stunning three stone, or an intricately designed and expertly handmade multi-gemstone ring, Michelle works closely with her customers to ensure the outcome is a very happy bride to be. Michelle Rosthorn Jewellery Studio can source diamonds and gemstones from various suppliers. You can visit the studio and view a variety of diamonds to decide on your perfect diamond. If you are after a coloured gemstone, Michelle can advise on the durability and wearability to best suit your lifestyle and budget. With almost 30 years’ of experience in the trade and 25 years as a qualified goldsmith, Michelle can recommend the best precious metals and style of ring to suit you. If you have a precise idea of your engagement ring, or need some expert advice, professional design and highest quality hand manufacture, she is the person to consult. Michelle prides herself in listening to the customer’s needs, interpreting their style to create the perfect piece of jewellery to suit them. If you already have your engagement ring and need a wedding ring to complement it, Michelle can create one of the highest quality to fit perfectly.

If your engagement ring is a special treasure that has been handed down through the generations, consider taking it to Michelle Rosthorn Jewellery Studio for a professional polish and clean, which can make the world of difference to an old piece. She also specialises in custom making wedding rings for men, working in a variety of precious metals from platinum to gold of various carats, palladium and silver. Also in stock or available to order is an affordable range of Ellani Jewellery, perfect for the bridal party on your special day.

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Wedding Feature

Understanding the small print

Modern venue amongst the vines

Diamonds are forever but sadly, some relationships aren’t.

“People put a lot of effort into their wedding, and as part of the preparations for the rest of your life, it’s also important to put some thought into what can come after the event,” says Watson Legal compliance and research manager, Peter Jameson. Relationships sometimes end in separation, so you need to ask yourself – ‘do I really understand the financial and legal ramifications of what I’m doing?’ Relationship property is a specialist area for Watson Legal and Philip Watson is an experienced, qualified lawyer. “We frequently represent people who couldn’t normally afford quality representation.”

Another fabulous local option is Ūkaipō – the Rangitāne Culture Centre. Ūkaipō offers a modern, multi-purpose venue for functions and events and is available for hire by the wider community. Architecturally designed to capture plentiful natural light and create a comfortable amibience, Ūkaipō allows for multiple function spaces for large and small groups. The main hall seats up to 200 people with formal dining facilities, plus there are two spacious fully equipped meeting rooms. The commercial kitchen and bar facilities offer flexible catering options, with the opportunity to self-cater, supply your own caterer or have your catering requirements managed by the owners. With a peaceful setting alongside a picturesque Marlborough Vineyard, with ample on-site parking and easy access, the Rangitāne Cultural Centre is a unique Marlborough venue for meetings, weddings, celebrations, and events.

A recent testimonial: ‘Peter and Phil – thank you for your work representing me on the matter of my separation and particularly your kindness. I’m very grateful for your leniency and grace with your fees, and that you kept them at such a manageable level, was above and beyond. Much appreciated, Natalie.’

Come and see Pete and Phil.

Dream weddings in paradise at Furneaux Lodge Saying your vows on the beach, on the jetty at sunset or on the sweeping lawn overlooking the sparkling sea, forest or iconic homestead; Furneaux Lodge is designed for the wedding of your dreams.

Rain on your wedding day is actually considered good luck, according to Hindu tradition.

Located in Endeavour Inlet/ Punaruawhiti in the outer Marlborough Sounds, Furneaux Lodge specialise in personalised, bespoke weddings. There’s accommodation for 76 guests, from self-contained family units to contemporary studios and comfortable cottages. Expand your guest list by booking rooms at nearby Punga Cove – another stunning wedding location to consider - for a total of 136 people (they’ll provide boat transfers).

Dining options include a seated banquet-style dinner in a marquee for up to 120 guests, or in the homestead dining room. Larger groups can enjoy a BBQ buffet lunch or dinner, casual and fun food stations, platters on the deck or a sumptuous seated and plated entrée, main and dessert.

Getting there is easy. Cruise with Cougar Line from Picton, walk or mountain bike the Queen Charlotte Track (they’ll take your bags), or helicopter to their lawn from anywhere.

When it comes to planning, they can cater every detail, from flowers, photographers and food to decorations to your style and specifications. And when it’s over, stay a while; Furneaux Lodge is made for dream honeymoons, too.

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MARLBOROUGH’S PREMIUM EVENT CENTRE

Whatever your wedding dreams are we can help you make them come true at Ūkaipō. Ūkaipō is a modern, architecturally designed building, with a stunning backdrop for your special day, set alongside Marlborough vines for some amazing photo opportunities.

With an onsite bar and commercial kitchen, Ūkaipō is the venue for you.

Contact our team today to discuss your wedding venue requirements.

Viewings: Call our office on (03) 578 6180 Bookings: Email bookings@ukaipo.nz

1-3 Fell Street, Grovetown, Marlborough | www.ukaipo.nz

Caci Blenheim: Pre-wedding skin guide There is so much to consider when it comes to your big day; the venue, your dress, which wines you'll serve—and of course, your skin.

The team at Caci are here to support you with walking down the aisle with total skin confidence and have options for all budgets and skin types.

12 Months Join Caci’s Reformaskin membership Results can take time! Caci’s Skin Health Membership is a schedule of personalised skin treatments every 3 - 4 weeks plus a recommended at-home regime and payment plan. Your Caci therapist will develop a pre-wedding skin plan to help get you glowing. Plus you'll enjoy 30 minutes of down time each month. Wedding stress, who?

2-3 Months Book your Cosmetic Injectables appointment Plan to get your injectables ahead of your big day, so by the time your wedding comes around you will have become used to your refreshed look. You'll feel comfortable, relaxed and confident!

Book your partner in!

This day is about the both of you so why not get your soon-to-be hubby or wife booked in for a treatment. Enjoy the downtime amongst the craziness of wedding planning and you’ll both be glowing on the day.

1 Week!

8 Months Take things up a level Make a real difference to your skin, addressing scarring, pigmentation, loss of elasticity, wrinkles and uneven tone and texture with Caci’s advanced treatments: Microneedling, Photo Rejuvenation or Fractional Co2 Laser.

Your final treatment Get your final skin conditioning treatment! The team will pick one that’s going to leave you fresh and glowing!

Avoid breakouts Wedding planning can be a little stressful—meaning breakouts. Don't squeeze! Instead, stick to your regime and use a spot treatment.

Stay out of the sun Sun burn and tan lines are not a part of your wedding attire plans. Wear your SPF, pop on a hat and stay away from direct exposure to those harsh UV rays.

2 - 3 days Drink H2o Plenty of water will keep your skin hydrated and plump!.

Be strategic with skincare Don't incorporate anything new or use a harsh exfoliator that could upset your skin, so you can enjoy that glow you've been working for!

Get your beauty sleep Essential to feeling well-rested and to avoid any dark circles.

The big day Enjoy yourself!

They say the day will fly by, so soak up every moment with total skin confidence.

All the best and we can't wait to hear about it (post honeymoon, of course!)

Say Hello, to

SPECIAL OFFER Have a free consultation and try a skin conditioning treatment for only $70!* (usually up to $120) CHOOSE FROM:

Microdermabrasion

Hydradermabrasion

LED Light Therapy

Sonophoresis Skin Infusion

14 Market St, Blenheim

caci.co.nz

*Terms and conditions: This offer is only valid for new customers in conjunction with a free consultation. New customers only include those who have not had a skin treatment at Caci within the previous 6 months from booking. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Celebrate your special moment in the stunning Marlborough Sounds at Furneaux Lodge or Punga Cove, with nature as your perfect backdrop.

Photo: Jessica Jones Photography

furneauxlodge.co.nz pungacove.co.nz

marlboroughweddings@gmail.com

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START THE NEW YEAR WITH A FRESH FACE

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For lip enhancement OR to physically lift and sculpt the face, neck or décolletage

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03 548 8216 www.enhanceskin.co.nz

If you are looking for a new ride or parts and servicing this summer call us on 03 544 5429

www.myride.co.nz | OPEN 7 DAYS

ON THE STREET Interior designer and Cinnamon House owner Simone Hill shares her fashion style with us.

What are you wearing today?

A little dress bought this season from Red Hot Fashions.

Hot pink is one of my favourite summer colours, I’ve worn it since I was a little girl, it always makes me feel good.

Do you have a usual style?

I guess my style is mainly classic and feminine with a good pinch of glam. I’m attracted to floaty florals and pretty colours but also wear a lot of black. I’m more comfortable in high heels than flats.

What item do you have the most of in your wardrobe?

Definately dresses out weigh anything else in my wardrobe.

There are around 28 on the go this summer. I’m busy and often go straight out from work. I love how easy it is to throw one on in the morning that with very little effort can take me from day to night.

What looks or trends do you like right now?

It’s great to see so much pure linen around this year, it’s such amazing natural fabric that breaths in the heat, I love wearing it. Ironing it not so much but it’s only an extra five minutes in the morning.

Where do you buy most of your clothes?

I buy 90% of my clothes locally and 10% are holiday treats from other places.

My out of town customers tell my we are spoilt in Marlborough for fashion retail and I completely agree. I can always find what I want between No 4, Thomas’s, McRaes, Red Hot and Evolve. I’ve found stunning preloved designer pieces at Dresscode and I also love fossicking for vintage treasures at Savemart when the mood takes me.

Do you have a style rule you’d like to share?

Dress to your body shape and in colours that make you happy. Trust your favourite sales assistants, they want you to look good in their clothes and won’t let you get it wrong.

What is your favourite all time buy?

I’ve never forgotten a pair of black lace dress shorts from Christchurch designer Barbara Lee that I thrashed in the late 80s. The current star in my wardrobe is my full length faux leopard coat by Carla Zampatti.

Worst clothing disaster?

Worst clothing disaster was a pavlova of a taffeta bridesmaid dress forced on me by a girlfriend that I loved too much to refuse. It was a very long wedding.

A wardrobe staple everyone should invest in?

A good well shaped denim jacket is a great investment, it will earth any evening wear and let you get away with sparkles in the daytime.

Which celebrity’s sense of style do you admire?

My favourite celebrity fashion icon would have to be Grace Kelly, she was pure class.

Finish this sentence. You would never catch me wearing…

Pyjamas to the supermarket, I just don’t get it.

RICHARD BRIGGS

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January 2022

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Dr Kerri Mooney is offering consultations at Nelson Plastic Surgery.

Experienced surgeon joins specialist team

N

elson Plastic Surgery will soon be welcoming New Zealand-trained plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr Kerri Mooney, to their experienced team.

part of the team here. It is such a great opportunity,” she says.

Consults will take place in Nelson with procedures, recovery and initial post-op care taking place in Christchurch.

Based in Christchurch at The Naseby Street Clinic, Kerri says her passion for plastic surgery began when the opportunity arose for her to participate in a procedure early in her career.

“In medical school, most students don’t get a lot of exposure to plastic surgery. It wasn’t until I had a chance as a junior doctor that I fell in love with the specialised field. I love that it’s combining art with science.”

“As a surgeon, I am very aware of putting the patient’s interests first. I want to help to make them feel as comfortable as possible. I also think it is ideal for female patients to have the option of having a female surgeon, especially with breast surgery.”

With 10 years of experience in reconstructive and plastic surgery, Kerri has completed an Aesthetic and Breast Fellowship at the University of British Columbia and a Fellowship at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Melbourne, Australia.

Kerri offers a range of treatments in skin cancer, breast and aesthetic procedures. “Every patient is different and every case is challenging in its own way. But it is hugely rewarding.

I meet every type of person, from babies through to the elderly. Having a reconstruction done can completely change their lives and it is really special to be a part of that process.”

Working with the Nelson practice for the last few months getting processes in place, Kerri will be travelling to the region to offer monthly consultations at the Collingwood Street rooms from 17 February. “I am really excited to be a

Originally from Ireland, Kerri is married to a kiwi farmer and currently lives just outside of Christchurch. With an unbounded love for rural life, Kerri says she is here for the long haul. “I am absolutely in love with New Zealand and I am here to stay!”

Fiona Wilson, practice nurse for Nelson Plastic Surgery, says her team are excited to have Kerri on board. “Nelson Plastic Surgery are pleased to welcome Dr Kerri Mooney to our team. Her surgical expertise, knowledge and warm personality are a great addition to the Practice. Kerri will be offering consultations in Nelson with surgery performed in Christchurch and continued follow-up care in Nelson. With both Dr Greg Taylor and Dr Kerri Mooney, our practice is able to offer a wide range of reconstructive and plastic surgeries.”

Nelson Plastic Surgery Ph 03 548 1909 or 03 777 7810 nelsonplasticsurgery.co.nz

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Georgia Bird has started working at Abel Tasman Kayaks after studying a Diploma in Adventure Tourism and Guiding at NMIT.

Adventure into the outdoor industry A year out of school and recently returned from travelling, Georgia Bird was living with her parents and contemplating what to do next when her mother asked the question every teenager dreads, ‘What do you want to do with your life?

H

aving discovered the outdoors over summer thanks to a friend who introduced her to tramping, Georgia was looking for more adventures.

“I told Mum I wanted to keep going outside, so she suggested studying adventure tourism,” says Georgia, “I didn’t even know it was a thing, so I looked online and thought ‘that looks fun.’”

Georgia enrolled in the Level 4, Certificate in Adventure Tourism at NMIT and embarked on a path that has proved to be life-changing.

For those new to adventure tourism, the certificate is designed as a taster and includes disciplines such as kayaking, rafting, tramping, snowboarding and rock-climbing.

A combination of on-campus classes and overnight trips make up this mostly practical programme.

Hooked on the outdoors after her first year, Georgia enrolled in the Diploma in Adventure Tourism and Guiding (Level 5) to work towards becoming a professional guide. Graduates go on to obtain industry tickets and work as professionals within the industry, both in New Zealand and overseas.

Georgia has recently started working as a guide for Marahau based Abel Tasman Kayaks and is excited about guiding tourists in the Abel Tasman National Park. “The tutors were able to help me make connections and meet people in the industry,” say Georgia, “I wouldn’t have been able to work here without doing this course.”

Georgia says while the programme constantly pushed her, she felt well supported throughout.

“If you have a passion for the outdoors, this is for you.”

“Facing challenges and having tutors there to guide you through didn’t just teach me just to be successful in the outdoors, but also helped me grow to help others,” says Georgia.

Embark on a career in adventure tourism by learning in one of the best adventure tourism regions in the world, you might even be able to study the first year free as part of the government fees-free programme.

Located just a short distance from three national parks, rivers, and ski fields and renowned throughout the world by adventurers, Te Tauihu, the Top of the South is NMIT’s adventure tourism classroom.

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January 2022

Don’t miss out on taking part in your own adventure, apply now for 2022: nmit.ac.nz/adventure-tourism

My Home

My

home

Nicola Hodgson reminisces of fond memories created over the years at her family’s wee slice of paradise in Little Nikau Bay. KAREN RANKIN

Where is your home, who lives there, how long have you lived there?

Forty nine years ago we purchased an old farmhouse beside a stream nestled into the corner of Little Nikau Bay in the Pelorus Sounds, 17 km by boat from Havelock.

The old house has not been permanently occupied since our ownership, but we have been there at every possible opportunity over the years. In the summer months we would spend more time at the bay than at home. Our sons Charles and James spent most of their holiday times and long weekends down there, and most often their friends came too.

What four words would you use to describe your home?

Rustic, Relaxing, Homely, Functional.

What inspired the look?

It is primarily a holiday place, so the need to be comfortable and to invite relaxation is key. The look is casual, practical and a bit rustic, with touches that relate to its history.

What do you love about the neighbourhood?

The remoteness. The native bush and abundance of Nikaus.

The silence, the sounds of the sea. The calls and visits of the weka. The skinks and the birds. The bay offers so many options, walks to the Rocky Outcrop at the top of the property, where if your timing is right you can look across to the East and see the interisland - ferry on its journey to or from Picton in Queen Charlotte Sound. The fishing, the diving, sailing, swimming, hunting, rowing, kayaking, the choices are endless.

Relaxation with a good book is not to be underrated either.

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What piece could you never part with?

Have you done any renovations?

Hard to answer this when we are in the process of selling the property after 49 years. It will be the memories we take with us that we won’t be parting with. These will be constant reminders of the happy times we as a family have had over the years. Photographs and paintings of the bay will stay with us, including three paintings painted for us by artist Geoffrey Heath, who lived near us in the sounds for 16 years from 1989. I will miss the night sky which is spectacular, and completely unspoiled by light contamination in the bay.

Originally the old house kitchen was situated behind the two bedrooms. The sink bench faced seaward, but had a solid wall of cupboards as its view! After a number of years, in 1980 we repositioned the kitchen in to the existing living room, and incorporated a small covered veranda in to the living room to create a space for dining. At the same time we installed a new deck along the front. It was a huge success and vastly improved the flow of the living spaces.

What’s your favourite spot in the house?

It has to be the living room/deck. The ever changing views make it compelling.

Where do you shop for homewares?

Much of the interior of the old house was furnished with repurposed items from our home in town. The newer cottage is a mix of old and new, and over the years has become home to many collected bits and pieces from the beach. From quirky pieces of driftwood turned in to a small side table, to the collection of stones and sea worn pieces of coloured glass, collected by various family members over the years.

Unusual pieces of driftwood seem to find a place on a shelf.

What’s your decorating style?

Casual, eclectic and random, with a nod to its history. The original cow bell and strap, which was used for Dick and Dickie’s house cow. The corrugated iron art work, bought to relate to the sheep that roamed from Nikau Bay and keep our Little Nikau lawns nicely nibbled.

When it comes to homeware, do you save or splurge?

If it’s the right thing, then perhaps splurge. Everything that goes in to the bay has a road trip followed by a boat trip. So we need things that are reliable, robust, functional and will last.

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January 2022

What’s your favourite room?

My favourite room is the one full of family, usually this happens to be the living and deck spaces

What should every home have?

Comfortable spaces, and family to fill them.

Best money spent?

Building a two bedroom, bathroom and kitchenette sleep-out near the cottage, which enabled us to accommodate all the family comfortably and friends enjoyed their stays in the new facilities too.

Best seat in the house?

Again, the deck. But not to forget the end of the jetty, fishing rod in hand.

Do you have any tips on how to keep your living area orderly?

Having a large covered back porch is essential in the sounds.

Lots of hooks and a gumboot rack will keep hats jackets and boots out of the living room area. The rustic stone outdoor hand basin is a must, so useful for washing fish knives and fishy hands before coming inside. Keeping the living area orderly can be challenging, but I see it as happy chaos, it’s just part of the deal in the sounds.

Best memory of your house?

It’s hard to pick one, there have been so many over the 49 years.

The celebration of the 100 year anniversary of the old house in 2004. We devoted the day to celebrating, starting with a visit from the Nikau neighbours all dressed in 1904 clothes, and presenting a Māori challenge/welcome. It was a perfect day and with other friends and family from Paradise Bay joining us later, we ended up having a candle lit dinner on the deck remembering the early times and celebrating the times we were enjoying in more recent years.

If you could see yourself at home here, contact Lorraine and Martyn at Harcourts on 03 578 0888 to make an appointment for a private viewing or check out: marlborough.harcourts.co.nz/Property/966019/BL9809/0-Little-Nikau-Bay

Building Marlborough’s first Passive home A building company with a long history in Marlborough has just finished the construction of the region’s very first certified Passive House.

PAUL JONES

F

“The Passive House Institute uses stern parameters and extreme measures of efficiency in building. It’s the benchmark of energy-efficient housing,” Mark says.

Their dream, they say, was always to create an office space that is interesting, innovative and pushes the boundaries of efficient building in New Zealand.

Key factors to consider when creating a passive home include the orientation of the building, air tightness, insulation values, thermally efficient windows, and ventilation, among others.

airfield Construction owners Mark and Katja Thompson have spent many months on their new office, working on it when time allowed in their busy work schedule.

“The Passive House Certification means that the building will be about seven times more efficient than standard building code. Running costs will be minimised and air quality is improved, creating an amazing atmosphere for living in,” Mark says.

The bar for reaching passive certification is high, with a number of strict criteria to meet.

A passive home will offer comfort in terms of temperature and air quality year-round, using minimal heating or cooling, regardless of what the weather is doing outside.

Katja and Mark’s small office is a great place to witness passive housing in action, with many of the raw materials left exposed for clients to explore. It was designed by Keryn Thompson, of Palatchie Architectural Design.

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The journey towards sustainability Mark and Katja have been exploring the concept of Passive Housing since becoming involved with Formance, a Canterbury company which produces Structural Insulated Panels, or SIPs. “Our partnership with Formance in 2016 was the biggest catalyst towards us becoming a more sustainable company,” Mark says.

Having completed almost ten SIP homes during recent years, Fairfield is the exclusive Marlborough partner of Formance.

The high-performance panels aid with insulation and air tightness within the home, made from oriented strand board surrounding a slab of expanded polystyrene, which works to create an airtight insulation barrier. They can be used in walls, floors and ceilings for residential and light commercial buildings.

In a modern airtight home, a ventilation system is essential to prevent mould and building damage. A Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery (MVHR) system from Stiebel Eltron is silent and operates continuously in the background of the Fairfield office, exchanging stale air from inside with fresh air from outside.

“The heat is recovered by a crossflow heat exchanger, which transfers up to 95 percent of the unused heat in the extract air into the supply air, ensuring the building stays at the optimal temperature,” Mark says.

A tour of the building reveals a Rainwater Retention system and Outdoor Hot Water Heat Pump, ready and waiting to heat the building’s water, all of which is collected from its roof before being filtered and sent to the taps, shower and toilet inside.

Example of the Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery (MVHR) system from Stiebel Eltron.

Energy to power the building is captured by solar panels on the roof, basking in the Marlborough sun.

PVC windows are housed just inside the building’s thermal envelope, minimising thermal bridging and reducing heat loss as seen in traditional New Zealand homes.

“New Zealand has notoriously bad minimum building standards,” Mark says.

“So for us it’s about creating better atmospheres for our clients to live in by building warmer and healthier homes that are also cheaper to run.”

Example of the Rainwater Retention system and Outdoor Hot Water Heat Pump

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Building with the environment in mind

Working closely together

Fairfield Construction has noticed further benefits of working with SIPs.

Mark and Katja have good relationships with many of Marlborough’s local architects who are eager to create designs that allow for beautiful, energy-efficient homes.

Construction waste has been reduced significantly thanks to a lack of off-cuts of treated timber and insulation batts, helping Fairfield with their mission to reduce the amount of building waste they produce as a company.

After becoming involved with the NZ Green Building Council, the couple began to notice just how much waste was generated on construction sites. They now aim to recycle all waste on-site rather than dumping it all in the skip, as is the norm.

“Over the last few years we have seen a massive reduction in what we are putting in landfill. As a result, we cut our costs through recycling, which benefits our business as well as our clients,” Katja says.

“We live in an amazing province and there are a lot of really talented people in our industry. I think moving in that direction is something we should do collectively as well,” Mark says.

Rural Workshop Architecture, or RWA, directors Jarrod Midgley and Chris Nott often work with the team at Fairfield Construction, and love working with the couple and their staff.

The two businesses work well together with transparency and integrity to foster trusting relationships with clients that are fundamental to great outcomes, Jarrod says.

“We want to show that sustainability can easily be incorporated into construction projects and that it doesn't always cost more,” Mark adds.

“Mark and Katja are truly passionate about the future of building and all issues around sustainability, low energy consumption and low building waste. They very much bring this philosophy to reality in all their projects and education of all members of their team,” he says.

Mark and Katja have seen an increase in people looking to create energy efficient homes over recent years, as more people look to build comfortable homes that are more sustainable and have less impact on the environment.

“Living in our wonderful temperate Marlborough climate we together strive for buildings that need less and less energy to run. ‘Sustainability’, to us, is about designing efficient and high quality buildings that work well and last a very long time.”

Changes to New Zealand building standards are afoot, coupled with a desire for more New Zealanders to pursue energy efficiency.

Mark’s involvement in the design process is often helpful with enabling clients to achieve their dream home while also incorporating passive features.

“Energy efficiency [in building] is going to become more commonplace,” Mark says.

A bonus of investing in a passive or energy-efficient home is the long term savings to be made on running the home, the couple says.

Re-purposing old copper pipes into a lighting feature.

Keeping the OSB exposed creates an interesting design and minimizes the carbon footprint

Christchurch firms Crete Basin and Unico giving this accessible bathroom a glamorous style.

The passionate and dedicated Fairfield Construction team.

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Projects within the realm of energy efficiency Waikawa Formance Home The focus of this new build was not only about constructing a warmer and healthier space to live in with Formance panels, but also creating a long-term home with its own story.

Homeowner Greg Billington wanted an all-wood home with a ‘semi-industrial’ feel, which includes exposed steel portals and polished concrete.

He sourced an abundance of timber features including recycled rimu flooring, old Kauri villa doors and sarking to invoke a ‘lived in’ feeling at his new home.

“He loves the story of having sarking from a home which was probably built 100 years ago … [and] he wanted a new home but with the feel of it having been lived in,” Katja says.

The exterior of the home is clad with clear band sawn pine weatherboard, which is a good looking, simple and economic alternative to cedar. It was designed by Architect Tim Barton.

Taylor River Home After working alongside Tim Barton on the Waikawa Formance House, he decided to incorporate the SIP panels into his own house.

The OSB facing of the SIPs was left exposed as the interior lining, and matching OSB sheets were sourced to line the internal walls to match. This reduced the need for additional material to minimise the ecofootprint of the home.

The Elm staircase and flooring, sourced from a local sawmill, are a feature and highlight of the house, which is nestled right alongside Blenheim’s Taylor River.

The Cabin A true example of the way SIPs panels can be used to set the foundation for any home, this vineyard cabin offers the ultimate comfort on wheels.

Mark and his team built the cabin off site on a trailer, enabling its owners to place it wherever might take their fancy.

The 3 x 7 metre cabin features exposed SIPs ceiling and walls inside, Macrocarpa weatherboard outside, milled from the owner’s own trees, Galvanised roofing and X-Lam flooring.

It’s completely self-contained and offers the ultimate comfort amongst the vines.

For all enquiries about building your next project, get in touch with Fairfield Construction 03 577 5161 info@fairfieldconstruction.co.nz www.fairfieldconstruction.co.nz

Reach for the sky

A unique new space to learn and create music F

rom the day she was born, Alison Dight was surrounded by music and says she fell in love with it from an early age.

“My mum Jacque Taylor ran a keyboard school in Marlborough for many years and my grandad Tom Harrison, who was once the mayor, was very involved in the Blenheim Operatic Society,” says Alison. “When I was a child, my Mum’s philosophy was to make music as affordable and accessible as possible, and I share that same aspiration.” Alison first sang on the stage at age four, and throughout her childhood, she competed in country music competitions and performed for the Blenheim Musical Theatre, and today she’s the vice president.

After Alison left high school, she pursued her passion for music and went to performing arts school. “Being able to sing six days a week was a dream come true.” She then moved to Australia and studied counselling, before working in a primary school as a counsellor. “I have a real passion for working with kids, particularly with autism or on the spectrum. I love seeing these students come out of their shell and really discover music.”

For the past four years, Alison has been teaching singing privately in her home studio, Richmond View School, and the Marlborough Children and Youth Theatre, drawing on her experience in counselling and music. “I have recently completed my qualifications in contemporary voice teaching and having studied counselling helps with identifying my students’ different learning styles and needs.”

Over the years, many students have asked Alison whether she also teaches piano or guitar, or if she knew of teachers that did. Then one day a parent said, “I just wish they could learn music all in one place, so that’s where the idea of a local music academy was born.

“What’s most important for me is making music more affordable and accessible for everybody,” says Alison. Initially, the academy will start by offering voice, piano, guitar, and drums, with plans in the works to include brass and string instruments. Students will be able to learn any of these instruments all in the one place and all ages are welcome. “We will have preschool music programmes – from my studies, I believe young children can learn the basics of music – which are important before they learn a specific instrument.”

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January 2022

Alison Dight enjoying a music lesson with her students.

The academy will run a summer holiday programme for two weeks which will culminate in a show at the ASB Theatre – High School Musical Junior. “So, the students can come and learn all different aspects of theatre, whether it’s performing, creating costumes or painting the sets.”

Visit ‘Marlborough Academy of Music’ on Facebook.

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22 26 Maracrkh- N2el0son Fo u n d e r s P m Noon - 9:30p

KET SALES EARLYBIRD TIC RY EN D 31 JanUA

Captivating displays, amazing stories, joyflights and excellent coffee!

Open 9am - 5pm (Last entry atat 4pm) Closed ChristmasRd, Day Open 9am - 5pm (Last entry 4pm) 79 Aerodrome 79 Aerodrome Rd, Blenheim Ph 1305 (03) 579 1305 www.omaka.org.nz Blenheim Ph (03) 579 www.omaka.org.nz

MARLBOROUGH EVENTS GUIDE

Pick up your copy from Marlborough District Council

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Hole Lotta Golf Fundraising Diner Marlborough Golf Club, Fairhall

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1.

Alyssa and Tim May with Roger Townley

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Anthony and Jo Ross with Leigh Andrews

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Bob and Rosa Tate

4.

Jason Giblin, Jamie Norton and Matt Croad

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Nikki Page with Chris and Victoria Black

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Dallas and Matt Flight

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Harrison Martin, Glenn Dick and Kurt Lindsay

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Craig Howard and Ross Baker

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Jacqui and John Herkt with David Croad

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Mike Russell and Quentin MacDonald

MARLBOROUGH MAG

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Mitre 10 Christmas Party 1.

Bec Harris and Emma Withers

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Bruce McDougall, Murray Rush and Caleb Franich

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Flynn Hawtin and Sienna Taylor

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Ian and Pam Bunt

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Jules and Robyn Karwowski and Jesse James

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Jesse Baker

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Pam Walker, Heather and Ross Crump and Conner Te Wake Walker

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Lahana and Kristen

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Jaco Du Plessis, Mike Sandford, Jesse Barker, David Newman, Lindsay Somerville, Tane Karaitiana, David Hawtin and Amy Darling

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JIll and Rob Ashfield

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MALINDA SARAH PHOTOGRAPHY

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Gardening

Time to reap the benefits YOUR JANUARY GARDENING TIPS Kitchen Garden • Water less often but more thoroughly, the water needs to reach the subsoil to the root zone. Take your time and check that the soil is wet to at least 5cm.

• Water in the early morning or early evening to reduce water loss due to evaporation.

• Water, feed and weed before you go away, ask a neighbour to water while you are away, put a timer on the tap to make it easy for them.

• Check over your plants regularly, pests love the heat, remove bugs by hand then install sticky traps.

• If pests have become a problem use an environmentally friendly spray around your vegetables and remember to spray late in the day when the bees have gone home.

• Sow seeds. In most areas seeds can be planted directly in to the garden: cabbage, beans, cauliflower, carrots, spinach, and silverbeet. Keep them well watered and thin when necessary.

• Plant seedlings: beetroot, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, spinach, radish, leeks and silverbeet.

• Plant another round of salad crops: lettuce, mizuna and mesclun.

• Continue to feed vegetables with liquid fertiliser every two weeks.

• Keep your seedlings protected with slug and snail bait.

• Harvest garlic when tops have flowered, turned yellow and the lower leaves have started to turn brown.

• Harvest vegetables as soon as they become ready, if you are not sure when this is, taste and size are good indicators. Most vegetables don’t improve when left to grow too big.

• Corn is ready to harvest when it is still at the milky stage and the silk will be brown and dry. Check by pulling back the leaves and pushing your fingernail in the cob. Don’t leave them on the plant to long after this as they become doughy.

• Harvest potatoes as they become ready, use any damaged ones first and store the rest.

• Plant seedlings: petunias, impatiens, calendula, dahlias, verbena, alyssum, cosmos, marigolds, nemesia and dahlias.

• Plant for bees: alyssum, pineapple sage, bergamot, echinops, eryngium, lemon balm, blue salvia, coreopsis, gaillardia, alyssum, rosemary and lavender.

• Prepare the ground for spring bulbs by digging compost through the soil.

• Beans need checking regularly, they become stringy if left too long on the bush.

• Dead-head roses. Remove all fallen leaves from around the base of the plant to reduce the spread of disease.

• Tomatoes are ready to harvest when they are fully coloured and firm to the touch. The plants can get very heavy now so make sure they are well staked.

• Water roses well, replace or refresh mulch if necessary.

• Early plums can be harvested, check other fruit trees for overly heavy branches, remove some fruit early if necessary to protect the branch.

Garden Colour • Water your pots more in the warmer weather and consider using a water retention product.

• Sow seeds. In most areas seeds can be planted directly in to the garden: cosmos, impatiens, lobelia, calendula, pansies, poppies, salvia. Stay on top of the watering or else they will dry out quickly.

• Protect your roses from blackspot with the appropriate fungicide.

Trees and Shrubs • Keep all plants well watered.

• Remove weeds as they will harbour pests and diseases.

• Continue to mulch your shrubs and trees. Keep mulch away from the trunk.

• Watch out for insects, spray in the evening when the bees have gone home.

• In humid areas watch for mildew, blackspot and other diseases that thrive in this environment.

Brittany Hamilton • 021 041 5882 maidenvoyageboatschool@gmail.com www.maidenvoyage.nz

PICTON, WAIKAWA & SOUNDS • 34 years Experience • I am a Summit Champion 2012 - 2017 and 2019 - 2021 • Find Out Why • Choose me for all your Real Estate needs Contact: Vicki Weetman 027 448 1872 Picton 573 6166

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