Marlborough Weekly 19 April 2022 by Top South Media

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A fitting reward

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Deputy head prefect Watson Tahavalu, Victoria Fotu, Ofaloto Faa’oa, head prefect Liam Keegan, Marlborough Tongan community chairman Ika Faa’oa, Ana Fuapau and deputy head prefect Patrick Milliken. Photo: Matt Brown.

Donations flow for Tonga relief MATT BROWN

matt@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

Marlborough Boys’ College students have donated more than 600 items of food and about

$1500 for relief in Tonga. The island nation of Tonga was devastated by the eruption of submarine volcano Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha'apai in January, which caused widespread dam-

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age. Aid from schools across the region has been graciously welcomed by the Marlborough Tongan community. Marlborough Tongan commu-

nity chairman Ika Faa’oa says he is enormously proud of all the help and donations from Marlborough Boys’ College, primary schools and Marlborough Girls’ College.

“Representing the Marlborough Tongan community, we give thanks to all the schools of Marlborough that will enable us to

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TUESDAY 19 April 2022 YOUR WEEKLY

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FROM PAGE 1 help our families in Tonga,” Ika says. “We pray that the Lord will bless them for their helping hands and the things they have given us.” The college community raised $1516 from their week-long appeal, mufti day, Givealittle and a Tasman Mako jersey auction. Students also gave 650 food items that will be shipped to Tonga by the Marlborough Tongan community. Marlborough Boys’ College Head Prefect Liam Keegan says he’s happy with their effort, especially amidst Covid restrictions. “We had one year group was away for the mufti day, doing online learning, so we had to tweak our prize draw, sponsored by Mitchell Sports to make sure

Head prefect Liam Keegan. Photo: Matt Brown. it was fair for everyone, “I would like extend our appreciation to Mitchell Sports, the Tasman Mako, More Fm Marlborough, Marlborough Weekly, the Marlborough App, Leo’s club and Imagine signs for the support they showed us for our fundraiser.” Liam says The submarine volcano and sub-

sequent tsunami severely damaged or destroyed food crops, homes, infrastructure, communications, and livelihoods causing widespread food shortages and contaminated water supplies. A container organised by the Marlborough Tongan community is expected to arrive at Riverlands estate this weekend.

“Thank you all for the donations. We appreciate your love that you have shown us. Our people in the islands will be proud of us,” Ika says. Donations at the Marlborough 2 Tonga Givealittle page are still being accepted at https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/ marlborough-to-tonga-tsunami-relief-fund

News

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

Family torn apart in dispute over holiday bach TRACY NEAL

Open Justice multimedia journalist

The ties that bind a family bach built by a labour of love have been unravelled by a long-running fight which one family member says has caused “years of heartbreak”. “It’s been absolute devastation. It’s a place where we used to love to go, as it was all about family,” she said of the shared haven in the sometimes serene but often squally corner of the Marlborough Sounds. The 49ha property at Oyster Bay, in a part of the Sounds known as Croisilles Harbour was developed by Morris and Rosalie Parkins, together with their three sons, Reece, Steve and Grant. Rosalie died in 1999, sadly not long after the bach was finished, and Morris in 2010, after which the three brothers inherited an equal share in the property. It had become something their father never would have wanted, Steve told Open Justice. The stress has been such that he’s lost teeth over it – literally ground them away. “I’ve completely buggered them,” he said of the dentist’s reasons they had to be removed.

At the heart of the dispute was Grant’s ambition for a greater interest in the property. He claimed to have contributed more than his brothers to its development. He was not challenging the will, but wanted recognition he was entitled to a larger share of the value of improvements over the years. A bid to have the District Court recognise his claim failed, and now an appeal to the High Court has also failed. Grant said while the rift with his brothers was now irreparable, he planned to continue the fight. “I don’t want to say much more but yes, it’s been very difficult – there’s no going back,” he told Open Justice. Morris Parkins was 46 years old when he bought the property in 1990. It was mostly bare land in a part of the Sounds that was a boat ride from Nelson, or a long drive over twisty, steep gravel roads which in parts plunged straight down to the sea. Morris, Rosalie and their three sons always referred to the property as “the family bach”, where Morris spent most of his spare time. He was a builder, regarded by all, including his sons, as a man of few words. He was ex-

tremely resourceful and a very hard and committed worker, Justice Gendall said in last month’s High Court decision. He worked tirelessly for years to develop the property and the two houses eventually on it, so it was kept for and used by all the family. From 1990 he cleared the land, built fences and facilities for stock plus a large shed before preparing a site for the first house. It took six years to build the house. Grant was an engineer, Reece a builder, and Steve a plumber. In 2003 Morris, who was by then retired, relocated an old hospital building to the property to be used as a second house. In 2008 his health declined, and he went into care. Reece took over administering his father’s affairs. He, Grant and Steve, divided the costs three ways of running the property, including rates, insurance, private roading levies, and mooring fees. Morris died in 2010, not having been back to the Sounds since he went into care. While Grant acknowledged all had equal share in the estate, he claimed that because he and their father developed the property together in the earlier years he was therefore entitled to half the value of im-

The Parkins family bach in the Marlborough Sounds. Photo: Supplied. provements over time. “Because of his contributions and reasonable expectations, he maintains an institutional constructive trust arose relating to the property that he asks the court to recognise,” Justice Gendall said. Steve and Reece acknowledged Grant had put in more work than they had early on, but later on their contributions exceeded his. They too had used their trade expertise, their own equipment and gear, and their access to materials in the property’s later development. They also disputed Grant’s

claim he had made direct financial contributions to the property’s development. Justice Gendall said that in order to give rise to a constructive trust a claimant needed to establish more than just contributions to the asset in question. “The property was regarded by all as the ‘family bach’. It was ‘Morris’ bach’ - his passion, and something he worked on in most of his free moments. “It was passed down by Morris in his will (unchanged for 30 years when he died), to his three boys in equal shares for continuing use by them and the next generation his respective grandchildren.” Justice Gendall said the conclusion reached in the District Court to dismiss Grant’s claim in its entirety was a proper one. The subsequent appeal in the High Court failed for a number of reasons. The family said the heartbreak was such that some of them, including Grant, hadn’t visited in years. They said it had left a “nasty taste” and all they wanted was to remember their Mum and Dad being there. “We know what our father’s wishes were, and we’re fighting for that,” Steve said.

News

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

King Salmon announces $73m loss; hopes to raise $60m to meet challenges RNZ Marlborough-based King Salmon has made a large full year loss, and is raising more than $60 million to improve its balance sheet and address ongoing challenges. The company was placed in a trading halt on Wednesday ahead of the release of its full year result. The trading halt has now been lifted. The fish farmer made a net loss of $73m for the year ended January, compared with a $7m loss a year earlier, reflecting increased fish deaths, higher freight costs and the ongoing pandemic, as well as a $39m write-down of goodwill and $20m of plant, equipment and other intangibles. The company said it was responding to those challenges with an underwritten $60.1m rights offer, which gave shareholders the option to buy 2.85 new shares for every one share they hold at a price of

New Zealand King Salmon farm. Photo: Supplied/New Zealand King Salmon. 15 cents a share. The offer price represented a near 83 percent discount to the last traded price of 86 cents, prior to the trading halt put in place this morning. Oregon Group had pre-committed to take up $23.8m of its rights, while the directors were committed to take up $2.5m of shares, with the balance of shares fully underwritten by Jarden Partners. King Salmon chief executive

Grant Rosewarne said the proceeds of the rights offer would be used to strengthen the balance sheet and provide liquidity for medium-term operating requirements, including changes designed to combat rising fish deaths from a warming climate. “Unusually elevated seawater temperatures were a major factor behind high mortality rates, with the marine heatwave during summer asso-

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ciated with a La Niña event,” Rosewarne said. “Ongoing supply chain disruptions, soaring freight charges and mortalities continue to impact our business. Our hospitality customers also continue to be affected by lockdowns and social disruptions.” He said measures to address fish deaths would result in a decline in fish production this year and next, with increases expected the following year. “This reduction in output will be partially offset by a rigorous review of overheads and a downsizing of the company,” he said adding that the company expected the changes to have an impact on this year’s earnings. Rosewarne said the company remained focused on developing a new farm in the deeper and cooler waters of Cook Strait, with its resource management application to be completed by the end of the month.

SCENIC TRAINS TO RESUME KiwiRail’s Northern Explorer and Coastal Pacific scenic trains will resume later this year. The two services were hibernated in December 2021, when the ongoing impacts of Covid-19 saw passenger numbers dwindle. The TranzAlpinere-started in January and will also offer new package and tour options from early October. KiwiRail general manager scenic journeys Tracey Goodall says the restart will allow time for New Zealand’s borders to progressively re-open and the trin journeys be fully up and running in time for the summer tourism peak. “We appreciate the disappointment some people felt when our scenic trains were hibernated. It means a lot to us that New Zealanders care about travelling by rail. However, our tourism services are self-funding, and do not receive the local council and Waka Kotahi subsidies that commuter and inter-regional passenger trains receive, so we had to make the right decision to get through Covid.” MBC APPEAL FOR TECH TEACHERS Short on teachers, Marlborough Boys’ College is on a search for experts in several subjects to deliver part-time technology classes for their pupils. In a post of social media, they outline the eight classes in term two that would benefit input from the community. Each of the four classes, general technology, graphics, engineering and food technology, are taught over four hour-long lessons each week. “Due to a number of issues the school is short teachers to develop and deliver the technology curriculum for year 9 and 10,” the post says. “No previous teaching experience required but a passion for helping the youth is very important.” Get in touch with deputy principal Nicki Attridge at nicki.attridge@mbc.school.nz if you can help.

News

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

Blenheim river still flooded because of broken weed-cutter boat MAIA HART

Local Democracy Reporter

A river in Marlborough has been in flood for the best part of a month, despite there being no rain. “Maybe they’re just too busy with other things,” says Sonu Karwal, pointing at the new library being built across the road. Sonu, who manages a restaurant overlooking the Taylor River in the centre of Blenheim, is wondering why the Marlborough District Council hasn’t done something to get the water down. He says his Raupō customers are constantly complaining and pointing it out. The council said on Thursday the overflowing Taylor River is due to a build-up of weed in the lower Ōpaoa River and a break-down in equipment. They plan to rectify this soon. “We did not have any rain for the last two weeks, but look how bad it is. It's very messy,” Sonu says. Woodbourne resident Debie Andrews says the water is nowhere near as clear as it was when she was a child.

“When I was a kid and I used to come up here, all of it was clear [of weeds], none of it was here,” Debie says. “I do notice the weeds, I think it's a bit of a shame when it used to be so clear. But otherwise it's OK, it's still nice to come and look at anyway. “Compared to when I was a kid a lot more work has been done on the path, and I'm going back 30odd years ...” Council rivers engineer Geoff Dick says the weed is “more pronounced” than normal “thanks to” a warm and wet summer. And the council’s weed-cutter boat has broken down, which limited the early summer cut. The part needed for the weed-cutter has arrived from Australia, and is expected to be fitted over Easter. “The public will have noticed the high levels of water in the Taylor, particularly near Raupō cafe,” Geoff says. “This is due to the normal buildup of weed which we get during the warm summer months, but the water level will drop once we get our weed boat back on the

Raupō cafe manager Sonu Karwal, left, with employee Baldev Gill say the flooding is worse than usual. Photo: Scott Hammond/STUFF. Ōpaoa River.” A variety of aquatic weeds grew prolifically in the Taylor and lower Ōpaoa rivers, Geoff says. He says the lower Ōpaoa weed is cut three times a year using the council’s weed-cutter boat. The council usually removes weed growth from the river by Raupō by digger and weed rake.

The council is also upgrading a section of stopbank near the Purkiss St entrance to the Taylor River reserve. And the trees in the stop bank at Brook Street were removed because they were beginning to fail and residents were concerned a large limb or tree might fall their way, Geoff says.

“Cutting the trees down is the easy part. Stumping them and repairing the stopbank is quite a big job and will likely be completed in two parts.” Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.

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TUESDAY 19 April 2022

Renwick students inspired to help Long wait for kids MATT BROWN seeking autism or ADHD diagnosis A Ukrainian boy who crossed matt@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

the border alone into Slovakia amid Russia’s invasion inspired two Renwick school students to action. The year six students, Alexis McLennan and Rebecca Lees, decided to organise a schoolwide fundraiser in support of children displaced by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The pair organised a blue and yellow dress up day, with proceeds going to the Red Cross. “We had to come up with a plan,” says Rebecca. “We wanted it to be as big as possible.” “I was looking at this little boy on tv – on the news – his name was Hassan. I was inspired and felt relly sorry for him,” she says. “I asked if Alexis wanted to do a fundraiser.” They spoke to Renwick School principal Michelle Spencer, who backed the idea. “They’re wanting to make a difference right now,” Michelle says. “It’s important we accommodate those wishes. They’re going to be our future leaders and we need to nurture that. The curiosity, desire and belief in yourself.”

ERIN BRADNOCK

Local Democracy Reporter

Red Cross representatives Jacky Martin and Peter Nii Barnor Saba receive a donation of $605.30 from Renwick School students Alexis McLennan and Rebecca Lees. Photo: Matt Brown. Alexis says they want to encourage people to open their heart to people suffering. “We’re so fortunate here. They don’t have much – it’s good to donate, she says. Alexis says they raised much more than the $200 they were expecting. More than $600 was handed over to national Red Cross representatives last week. Red Cross national humanitarian development manager Peter Nii Barnor Saba says all support

goes to the Ukraine Red Cross and is distributed for welfare or support, depending on the need. Red Cross humanitarian development engagement manager Jacky Martin says the donations make a difference. “This [money] is tagged for kids, so that’s where it will go.” “We haven’t widely publicised that we’re fundraising for Ukraine, so to receive a message from two young girls in Blenheim – it’s wow.”

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Families seeking an autism spectrum or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder diagnosis for their child can expect a long wait to go through the public health system. Nelson Marlborough Health’s acting mental health manager, Michael Bland, says kids waiting for an autism or ADHD diagnosis make up a considerable number of Nelson’s Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (ICAMHS) waitlist. According to February 2022 figures released by the Nelson Marlborough District Health Board last month, there were 116 children on the waitlist for ICAMHS Wairau services. Of that 116, ten have been waiting between seven to 12 months for further treatment. Michael Bland stresses that ICAMHS and crisis support is available for those acutely unwell or those at risk to themselves or others. “Assessments for autism or ADHD can be a 10-hour body of work for a single client, including working with parents, siblings, and usually these are school-age children and we'll be working with their schools,” he said. Autism New Zealand spokesperson Larah van der Meer said these wait times were typical of those across the country and were likely to have implications for health

outcomes. “For years Autism NZ has heard from people that obtaining a diagnosis through the public system involves lengthy waitlists, and that costs for diagnosis in private practice are prohibitively high,” said van der Meer. In research undertaken by the advocacy and education group early last year, wait times were found to be particularly long for children seeking diagnosis over adults. Nationally the average wait time for an autism diagnosis for a child sits at 10.9 months, while for adults that timeframe drops to 4.8 months. “The slow process is likely due to demand for autism diagnostic services being considerably higher than the available resources to meet the need,” said Bland. Bland said the sector was in desperate need of clinical psychologists to address wait times. “The workforce has been difficult over the last year,” he said. He told Local Democracy Reporting that hope was on the way for those on the waitlist, with a co-design strategy approach in the works, looking to the broader portfolio of services for children and young people experiencing mental health issues. “That waitlist will reduce when we get our workforce capacity managed,” he said. Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air

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Opinion

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

facebook.com/marlboroughmedianz marlboroughapp.co.nz 52 Scott Street, Blenheim

BLENHEIM RIVER STILL FLOODED BECAUSE OF BROKEN WEEDCUTTER BOAT You should take a look at the waterway from Koromiko to Wairau River; disgusting. There are so many blockages of debris from years of neglect! [It’s] kinda important don’t you think MDC, to keep our waterways clear to assist with flooding in our district? Angie Fergusson Has it been correctly dug out after the earthquakes? That was the last excuse!!! Peter Chapman Maybe council like the idea of calling Blenheim Beaver Town again and adding some flax mills back in? Thank you Marlborough Media for speeding this up with your news. Victoria Williams It’s been well over a month…get out there is waders and cut it back! Lisa Wheeler Funny the part has arrived just now and will be sorted this weekend isn’t it. Was it the story that got this sorted? Lynette Valk

MĀORI MEDIUM EDUCATION RETURNS TO BOHALLY INTERMEDIATE Awesome Pera, lucky kids. Anastasia Driver Love, love, LOVE!!! So proud of you, Pera Wills Nikki Flood Fantastic Pera, awesome to see your work recognized Maureen Burrow Proud of you, e hoa! Kate Faith-Pickering

COUNCIL BACKS ‘PREMIER TOURIST ATTRACTION’ OVER EXTENSION PLANS We’re facing a global climate crisis and can’t carry on with the status quo. If this proposal is dependent on maintaining or increasing the number of international tourists flying into NZ then it’s a terrible, short-sighted mistake. Duncan Davidson

The Brayshaw Park miniature trains had a big work out at the weekend, with model trains coming up from Christchurch for the special Easter weekend event, including a twilight ride. Regular runs of the miniature trains are on the first and third Sunday of the month, weather permitting. Pictured: The Wilson family make the most of the beautiful weekend weather with a train ride. Photo: Matt Brown.

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Rosemary, Linda, Ivar, Evan and Matt Wilson.

Emma Baker and Jackie Koortse with Charlotte and Harlan Sorenson.

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Matt Turner and Ryder Aldrige with Ashleigh and Toni Patterson.

Nikau, Tony and Kaige Ashby.

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Sally and Andrew McManaway with Julie Masarus.

Ailie, Kai and Tristan Suzuki.

Victoria Wilkinson, Juliette Capaldi, Jade McDrury, Lochie Ball and Nick Wilkinson.

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People power pulls through ANNA-MARIE BARNES The Marlborough wine region continues to thrive and deliver high volumes of premium quality

fruit in the face of a challenging season. Growers and vintners have faced pressure for the entire season, not only from the Covid-19 pandemic but also because of the current

La Niña climate patterns. This placed the industry under significant stress for the entire growing season, starting with the Delta outbreak in early spring, then Omicron arriving close on

its heels over the busy summer pre-harvest period and into harvest itself. Marlborough Grape Growers Cooperative chairperson and grower director Ben McLauchlan

says the extra layer of complexity presented by Covid-19 has had an impact on those who work in the industry.

SEE PAGE 12

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

Rural News

Testing times challenge vintage, but people power pulls through Despite closed borders, hot and wet weather and global uncertainty, grape growers and winemakers across the top of the south have successfully all but completed another vintage. Reporter Anna-Marie Barnes finds out why this season was like walking a tight-rope. FROM PAGE 11 “Our own vineyard only has a small area that is hand harvested and this was completed by a team of RSE workers – the remainder of the crop has been machine harvested by a Kiwi crew”. Ben emphasises the importance of teamwork and that it’s the hard work of the vineyard crews on the ground which has ensured the environmental impacts of the season have been overcome, resulting in quality fruit at harvest. Provision of additional labour through contracted harvest companies has made successful completion of the harvest possible. “The people make such a difference,” Ben says. “Getting our export wine to market is also difficult as the supply chain faces its own global challenges – but our reputation for quality and the strength of the New Zealand brand wraps around and the consumer demand for our product is still high.”

Ben says the Marlborough Grape Growers Cooperative is fortunate to have strong business relationships with its customers and it is these professional connections that leave the group in a very positive position going forward. He believes the industry will now take a collective breath inwards and reflect on how this momentum can be maintained, but he says it is clear that working together is critical and grower groups like the Marlborough cooperative are at the forefront. As a third generation landowner the longevity of Ben’s business and passing the property on to the next generation is of utmost importance. “Keeping this sustainable and emphasising the consumer experience is critical”. Over in Nelson-Tasman, winemaker Chris Seifried of Seifried Estate in Appleby echoes this sentiment. “We do feel that we’ve walked a tightrope – and survived.

Marlborough Grape Growers Cooperative chairperson and grower director Ben McLauchlan. Photo: Supplied. “We were quite nervous earlier in the season, especially with the rain in February causing issues

with botrytis in the vineyard. We are very pleased with the season overall, with varieties such as

chardonnay performing exceptionally well. “The warm late summer temperatures played their part, extending right into March and April, where we were still harvesting in temperatures of 26 degrees.” With Covid-19 meaning fewer international workers on the scene, Chris says Seifried Estate has relied more heavily on a smaller crew of local workers this season. Many of the vineyard team moved on to working in the winery once picking had finished and this has resulted in people upskilling or even working in a completely new area. Chris says workers enjoyed the change of scenery and are looking forward to repeating the experience next season. He says they had to ask the question, “how can we do this with a smaller staff? “In hindsight it has worked really well, thanks to our wonderful locals.”

Rural News

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

Diary farming career a life-long goal BARBARA STUART CANNABIS HARVEST UNDERWAY It’s all hands on deck at Kēkerengū as the Puro team work to get their cannabis flower and biomass picked, dried and packaged. The medicinal cannabis company is the largest organic grower in the southern hemisphere and recently secured $13m in government funding to accelerate and lead the growing industry. POPULAR HUNT BACK FOR 2022 The popular Woodbourne Tavern Pig and Deer Hunt has announced the dates of this year’s competition. The event sees hunters of all ages compete in a variety of sections, from pigs to possums. The hunt is scheduled for June 3-5. STRONG DEMAND FOR LOGS The domestic log market continues to show strong demand on the back of record high levels of new housing throughout the country. There are still shortages of framing timber and other wood products like plywood being faced by people building or renovating. Export log prices recovered stronger than expected in January / February this yearlargely due to concerns in China over available log supply due to a reduction in available supply from beetle infested areas of North America and Europe.

Daniel White was raised on a dairy farm on the north bank of the Wairau River. From a young age the end goal has always been to go dairy farming and work towards farming his own property. When he left school the first farming position he took on, as an eighteen-yearold, was working for Kenny Kyle at Canvastown as a lower order worker. While he was working there here quickly learned the ropes. Kenny sold that property and Daniel stayed on working for the new owners for a season, but it wasn’t long before he was back working for Kenny on the Havelock farm. During the four years he worked there he quickly rose to a fifty, fifty share milker over the last two seasons. “Kenny helped me,” Daniel says. “It set me on the next part of my career plan.” Little did he know the next few years would be a real challenge. At the start of the 2018 season Daniel took on the lease of a dairy farm in the Matiri Valley near Murchison milking three hundred cross bred cows. The farm hasn’t been without its trials though, including the access road alongside the Matiri River slumping to expose

Matiri Dairy Farmer, Daniel White with baby son Archie. Photo: Supplied. a dangerous, long drop down to the river below, forcing him to dump milk into his effluent pond as the road was too dangerous for the milk tanker to access. Not one to let problems get on top of him Daniel kept farming, keeping his eye on the end goal. This season his three hundred cows have

produced, 117,000kg of milk solids. During this time his life was not all bad he met his partner Jess and together they have a newborn son who they have named Archie. In his spare time Daniel is a keen pig hunter and enjoys relaxing with Jess, Archie and step-children Lukah and Izabella.

Locally Owned and Operated

• grass harvesting • baleage • hay • pit silage • ground work • spraying • air seeder direct drilling • maize planting & harvesting • earthworks • cartage • site works • drainage

Paul 027 422 5893 Phil 027 372 9864 accounts@lesliecontracting.co.nz

He always tries to outrun everything… But he won’t, when you’re on your Yamaha farm bike. Both of you looking after the farm. Kinda partners! You, him and Filco Farm & Sport.

Ph: (03) 547 2420

www.filco.co.nz

141/143 Quarantine Rd (Off Black Cat Cnr) Annesbrook, Nelson

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

Rural News

Marlborough Rural Support Trust report This season has been challenging for both the Dairy and Wine sectors due to labour shortages and the unusually wet weather for Marlborough. The number of humid grey days has led to fungal problems in the grapes and the need for a lot of extra spraying. The grape harvest is now well underway and there is some concern amongst viticulturists because Brix levels a lower than normal. Its been a good season for pastoral farmers with excellent growth and plenty of supplementary feed stored away. Sarah White reports she has been alerting rural people to the importance of having a plan in place before the Omicron Covid variant peaks in the region. She says cases are being reported and ensuring there is back up to carry out routine farm tasks or to bring in food while isolating will help to reduce stress on people when recuperating. To date she says most appear to have good systems in place. On a brighter note we have had the

first season of Surfing for Farmers, held here along the East Coast. It has been very satisfying to hear of good numbers of farmers attending Sarah says she is the first point of contact in Marlborough for people who might want help or some advice due to unexpected circumstances. The Trust covers all aspects of rural agribusiness; dry stock, dairy, cropping, horticulture, forestry, poultry, viticulture and rural contracting. We support all rural people- owners, managers, staff, and contractors. The RST website also has lots of helpful information she says. If more than a cup of tea and a yarn is needed, Sarah can connect those in need with the professionals who can provide further support. She can talk over the phone or come to you for a free and confidential chat, anytime, anywhere. The Trust’s 0800 help line is overseen by experienced co-ordinators who will help choose the right person to assist in resolving the challenge at hand. Contacts for Marlborough, Tasman and the West Coast is 0800 787 254. Sarah White Marlborough Rural Support Trust. Photo: Supplied.

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Rural News

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

Rural News

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

h g u o r o b l r a M

RURAL & LI FE STY LE

JUST LISTED

Northbank 51 Cat Creek Road

278ha

Presenting A Viticulture Opportunity

For Sale By Negotiation + GST if any View By Appointment

First time on the market in over 50 years, Glenythan, at 51 Cat Creek Road, presents a significant development opportunity for the right buyer. This 278ha (more or less) property in three titles boasts significant river flats and terraces and good water availability. Glenythan currently comprises approximately 67ha of hill country (comprising 27ha recently logged forestry, 12.7ha second rotation forestry planted 2017 and 5.5ha ready to plant, 22.3ha pasture, all areas approximate), with the balance in flat to easy contours. Currently grazing stock the property has a comprehensive cropping history. Over 100ha of river flats and terraces has been identified as presenting a potential viticulture development opportunity.

marlborough.harcourts.co.nz/BL9979

• Class A Wairau River Resource Consent for 190ha pasture and cropping irrigation. • Production currently supported by two centre pivot irrigators.

Mike Insley

• Three stand woolshed plus covered yards, 1 x 4 bay pole shed, 1 x 6 Bay + grain store pole shed. The property is complemented by a tidy 1981 built, four bedroom family home. For further information or to arrange an exclusive viewing, contact Mike Insley, Harcourts Wine Industry Expert.

In ct a r t n Co

M 021 229 8157 P 03 578 0888 mike.insley@harcourts.co.nz Marlborough Real Estate 2008 Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

2692 State Highway 63 Wairau Valley

old

The Wairau Valley Tavern has sold!

It’s one of the most beautiful buildings in Marlborough – and I’ve loved bringing it to market. Congratulations to Dave and Nop – I’m excited for your next adventure! Best of luck, and we’ll catch up soon. Well done to our new Tavern owners – Craig and Alex! It’s going to be great to see you behind the bar, and I look forward to dropping in for a drink or two shortly.

David Searle

M 021 736 922 P 03 578 0888 david.searle@harcourts.co.nz Marlborough Real Estate 2008 Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

47 Bush Road Tuamarina Persue Your Lifestyle Dream

68 Cat Creek Road North Bank Large Scale Development Opportunity

Currently grazing stock with an approximate 50 hectares plantation of Radiata forestry (14 - 15 years old, prunned and thinned). Approximately 70 hectares of river flats and valley floor has been identified as presenting a potential viticulture opportunity. Currently holds Class A Wairau River consent for 152 hectares cropping and pasture.

r u yo

• 5125m2 land • 4 bedroom house • Grazing paddock • Established fruit trees • 10 minutes drive from Blenheim For Sale By Negotiation View By appointment marlborough.harcourts.co.nz/BL9963

234.4ha

For Sale By Negotiation + GST (if any) View By Appointment marlborough.harcourts.co.nz/BL9865

M 027 959 1812 P 03 578 0888 max.morris@harcourts.co.nz

Marlborough Real Estate 2008 Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

William Harris

Mike Insley

Max Morris

Paul Jackson

Rhonda Stewart

Martin Summerscales

Hannah Burns

David Searle

Vicki Harrison Jones

Rural & Lifestyle Manager M 027 756 7798 P 03 578 0888 william.harris@harcourts.co.nz M 027 277 6686 P 03 578 0888 paul.jackson@harcourts.co.nz M 027 332 5050 P 03 578 0888 hannah.burns@harcourts.co.nz

OnLine

Max Morris

Mike Insley M 021 229 8157 P 03 578 0888 mike.insley@harcourts.co.nz

M 021 229 8157 P 03 578 0888 mike.insley@harcourts.co.nz M 021 736 922 P 03 578 0888 rhonda.stewart@harcourts.co.nz M 021 565 950 P 03 578 0888 david.searle@harcourts.co.nz

M 027 959 1812 P 03 578 0888 max.morris@harcourts.co.nz M 021 030 4974 P 03 578 0888 martin.summerscales@harcourts.co.nz

• • • • • •

Lifestyle Vineyards Grazing Forestry High Country Cropping

vicki.harrisonjones@harcourts.co.nz

Marlborough Real Estate 2008 Ltd Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Rural News

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

Sounds farmers need certainty ANDREW RITCHIE

Huge ongoing costs and no certainty have farmers in the Keneperu Sounds operating on a knife edge because of the lack of road access. Mike Richards who has a mussel farm in Waitaria Bay has been able to use the road with a light vehicle using a Resident’s Only Pass since the road opened, following the catastrophic floods in July. The Council issued a new code recently which allows bach owners and holiday makers to use the road without a pass providing they only have a light vehicle. Mike’s concern, as a regular road user is that little progress appears to be being made to restore the road to pre July’s conditions. The Hopkinson family farm 1000 hectares in the Sounds at Titirangi. Emma Hopkinson says the ongoing extra financial costs caused by the inability of trucks to access the farming community is crippling. All trucks have to utilise Johnsons Barges to service the farms. Emma says a round trip costs approximately $7000 and if the barge has to wait for a return load waiting time costs $250/hour. She praises the Sounds community who have pulled forces to plan

Above: Sheep are barged in the Marlborough Sounds, due to a lack of road access after the catastrophic floods last July. Right: Mike Richards Mussel farmer from Wataria Bay shows of his Residents only pass for the Keneperu Road. Photo Andrew Ritchie. the logistics of each trip. A slipway has been constructed at Fish Bay which is in a central position to accommodate the majority of users in the area. Haulier Gareth Parkes has served the community well during the road closure, coordinating loads and often has to stay overnight in the sounds to avoid the waiting time charges for the barge. Emma says that the extra costs due to the lack of road access is difficult to explain to bankers and accountants when the books are not balancing. She says that a neighbour estimated it has already cost an additional $100,000 in transport costs to date and no end is in sight. A spokesperson for Marlborough

Roads said there was no indication of when normal road access would be available but it looks as though it will be a “considerable amount of time.” “The repairs are extremely complex and there is a lot of damage underneath the road.” The worst affected area is a 19km stretch around Portage. Currently the road has reopened for six wheeler trucks, under twelve tonnes and no longer than eight metres. Permits can be applied for vehicles exceeding these specifications from Marlborough Roads. Kim Weatherhead is the Office and Logistics Manager for Johnsons Barges at Havelock. She says they have been very busy since

the floods of July, moving 40 to 50 cars per day initially. Since October they have barged over 13,000 sheep,1000 cattle,500 bales of wool,40 truck and trailer loads, tonnes of fertiliser and stock feed. Initially there was a Mayoral relief fund set up, which enabled transport to be provided at a very reduced cost. Since then the Council have combined with MPI to provide some funding. The decision was made to spread the funding over an extended period rather than provide free services that would mean the money disappearing quite quickly. However the road repairs are not going to be fixed quickly so Council is attempting to access more government funding to

cover an extended period. Dean Heiford who manages community support services at Marlborough District Council told Kim Weatherhead that the Sounds community may be concerned that repairs are not happening quickly enough, but that they aim to have an improved access road on completion rather than one that has just been patched up. Kim praised the community for coming together, thanking the Leslie brothers for clearing some of the massive slips and stock agents and Parkes haulage for making the logistics easier to manage. The increase in fuel costs have made costs unpredictable but the company have been pleased to help the community as best they can.

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TUESDAY 19 April 2022

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Sport

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

Triathlon triumph fitting reward for perseverance PETER JONES

peter@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

When Marlborough triathlete Gus Marfell crossed the finish line at the head of the Oceania Triathlon Cup junior field in Taupo recently, he could look back on a hugely challenging path to the top of the podium. In late-March, the 18-year-old Blenheim bike mechanic was preparing to take part in the threeleg Oceania Triathlon series, with races scheduled for March 27 in New Plymouth, April 3 in Mount Maunganui and April 10 in Taupo. Then, a week before the first event, things began to go wrong. On his way home from work Gus was knocked off his triathlon bike by a car whose driver pulled out in front of him. Thankfully Gus was unscathed, but his bike was written off. With time running out to get north for the New Plymouth race, Gus had to borrow a cycle off his former coach, Marlborough mentor Mark Grammer. Fortunately, Gus was familiar with the bike, having previously sold it to Mark. However, on the plane flight north, the replacement bike was also damaged in transit, leaving Gus with no option but to withdraw from the first event in the invitation-only tri-series. “I wasn’t able to find a bike in time

to do the first race,” said Gus, “so I had to pull out.” Although he described the situation as “very frustrating”, Gus chose to focus on the positives, his withdrawal giving him an opportunity to support his Canterbury Triathlon Academy teammates on the course, including Henry McMeking, who won the under-19 race. While his replacement bike was being put back into working order, Gus and the other Academy athletes got settled at their Taupo base before travelling to Mount Maunganui for the next round. This time the Blenheim youngster made the starting line, and the finishing line, although he was not entirely happy with his seventh placing. “I was pretty disappointed with that,” he suggested. “It was annoying because I felt pretty good going into it. “From that race the top two qualified to go to the world champs, so it was a shame I couldn’t have done better.” It was on the swim leg, which Gus freely admits is his weakest discipline, that he struggled, falling behind coming out of the water and being unable to make up enough ground on the leaders during the cycle and run legs. A week later it was on to the course at Three Mile Bay, in Taupo, with Gus determined to make amends.

Gus Marfell in action during the Oceania Cup series. Photo: Wayne Jones-Nevrilk. “It was fortunately my day, that day, and I was able to take the win. I came out of the water a whole lot better … although I was still about 40 seconds behind. The

winding [cycle] course suited me better that the one at the Mount which was flat and fast. “I was second, about five seconds behind the leader, going into the

run but I caught him up. Over the 5km run I managed to put just over a minute into the people behind me and was able to get away.” Although the Taupo win was not a world championships qualifier, it earned Gus valuable World Triathlon points and put a smile back on his face after a trying time. “[The win] was a confidence booster. I don’t think I am far off the pace … now that it is the off season it is time to work on my swim a bit more. Probably do a few ocean swims over the next month before [the water] gets too cold.” Over the winter he plans to compete in the local duathlon series, organised by Grammer, leading into the duathlon nationals in Auckland in August. Gus still has his sights set on higher honours in the demanding three-discipline sport. “These past three weeks have been really motivating for that as well,” he added, “especially being involved with such a good group of guys who all get along. It was so much fun.” After battling his way back into the sporting arena after a serious injury a few years back, Gus is well used to dealing with adversity. His latest effort underlines his determination to ensure that every cloud has a golden lining.

Advertising Consultant

CALLING ALL SALES PROFESSIONALS! If you love using your networking skills to collaborate with other professionals, we’re seeking an Advertising Consultant 25-35hrs per week, to join us in our modern Marlborough office located at 52 Scott Street. The position would be ideal for a great communicator and someone who enjoys developing and strengthening client relationships whilst seeking out new business. The role would also be responsible for delivering effective marketing solutions that help clients communicate with current and prospective customers and to develop their brand and image in the marketplace through our media assets. Using your negotiation and communication skills to evaluate client advertising efforts and to suggest improvements, you would also be comfortable preparing detailed proposals and curious and proactive in assessing competition. We are a passionate publishing and marketing services company who believes in delivering quality products, gaining exceptional results for our clients and connecting our community through local and engaging content. If you think you would be a perfect fit for our team, email your CV with a covering letter outlining your suitability to leigh@marlboroughmedia.co.nz or call (03) 928-4121 for a confidential chat.

Sport

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

Hoop dreams come true at Stadium 2000 PETER JONES Several of the nation’s leading basketballers will showcase their skills at Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000 on April 23. The Mike Pero Nelson Giants and the Wheeler Motor Company Canterbury Rams will play a pre-season game, tagged the NZNBL Pre-Season Blitz, on Saturday, with a midday tipoff. Both squads are keen to make the most of the opportunity to get in some much-needed game time before the NBL begins on April 28, while providing entertainment for the local fans. The Giants’ opening match is against the Nuggets on opening day, while the Rams will take on the same opponent on April 30 to begin their campaign. As the nation has moved to a lower alert level making larger crowds able to gather indoor, Marlborough Basketball are hoping to sell as many tickets as possible to the one-off match. Nelson Giants squad members: Sam Dempster, Tom Ingham, Nic Trathen, Jordan Schwalger, Riley Bensemann, Alex McNaught. Coach Mike Fitchett. Canterbury Rams squad members: Kaia Isaacs, Josh Book, Hunter Adam, Jackson Stent, Taylor Britt, Walter Brown, Max Darling, Joe Cook-Green, Sunday Dech, Mike Karena,

Nic Book. Coach Judd Flavell. Age group action Three Marlborough junior basketball sides took part in the national qualifying tournament in Rangiora over the Easter Weekend. Under-15 and under-17 boys, plus an under-15 girls team travelled south with hopes of qualifying to attend the national tournament in Hamilton (U17s) and Auckland (U15s) in July. The Marlborough teams are: Under-15 boys - Aki Collins, Jake Gane, Ajay Gane, Vitale Toia, Dan Clarke, Brodie Materoa, Couper Robinson, Olliver Harris, Tomasi Siovevata, Triyambak Gaur. Coach Leo Wiapo. Under-15 girls - Birgitta Prescott, Sophia Nicholas, Tilly Watts, Nina Clark, Olivia Brown, Bree Flynn, Mariekura Nepia, Violet Speakman. Coaches Heidi Stenhouse, Sophie Van Velthooven. Under-17 boys - Mana Collins, Arama Hita, Aston Dollimore, Toby Baker, Cullum Warmouth, Fergus Lane, Anton De Leon, Jimmy Fitzpatrick, Zac Barber, Gurjot Singh, Tyrone Houia. Coach Farishta Peterson. Primary tournament Over Anzac Weekend a host of Marlborough teams will head to the annual SIPT primary school tournament in Rangiora. The fact that the Marlborough primary school squad for this

event now numbers 62 players underscores the huge growth in basketball in the region over the last few years. Marlborough will be represented by three year-7/8 boys teams, one year-7/8 girls team as well as five year-5/6 teams that will play in the fast and exciting 3x3 format. Busy stadium School term 2 will see the start of the senior winter and college grade club competitions. Games will be played Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the Stadium. In term 3, junior and intermediate grades will be played separately from senior and college competitions. Development officer The rapid growth of the sport in Marlborough has seen the Marlborough Basketball Association employ Danielle Blackmore as a Development Officer to support coaching and development at all levels. Emerging talent Two under-15 representatives, Birgitta Prescott and Brodie Materoa, along with Thomas Blackmore (U13) have been invited to attend upcoming National Training Camps. Upcoming home tournament Marlborough Basketball will host the U17 regional competition on June 18-19. This will see under 17 teams from around the top of the South Island (including the Marlborough team named above) competing at Stadium 2000.

Nelson Giants’ stalwart Sam Dempster in action during last year’s Basketball Blitz. Photo: Peter Jones.

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

Sport Feature

marlborough

football

Sport Feature

football

marlborough

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

Sport

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

PTS

40 Garry Boyd

39 38 38 38 37 37 37 37 36 36 35 34 34 34 34 34 34 33 Toni Robinson

33 33 32

CHIEFS vs NSW WARATAHS

MOANA PASIFICA vs WESTERN FORCE

BLUES vs FIJIAN DRUA

HURRICANES vs QLD REDS

HIGHLANDERS vs BRUMBIES

CRUSADERS vs MELB REBELS

Is Marlborough a sporting ‘goldmine’? PETER JONES Ever wondered why athletes from New Zealand’s smaller regions, including Marlborough, traditionally punch above their weight on the world stage? Recent research out of the Auckland University of Technology (AUT) may provide some answers. In 2012, an ex-Swedish footballer, Rasmus Ankersen, wrote his book “The Goldmine Effect”, tracing his visit to different parts of the world where a disproportionate number of elite athletes were being produced. These “goldmines”’ were not your traditional urban centres with the latest high-tech high-performance facilities, rather they were places like the Ethiopian home village where many of the world’s top endurance runners emerged. Following this line of thinking, a study, conducted as part of an AUT Masters thesis by NorthTec Sport and recreation lecturer Bobby Newport, explored the early sport and play experiences of eight past and present elite hockey players from rural and regional communities. A report of the study, published by Bobby and his academic supervisors in the journal The Qualitative Report, says New Zealand urban centres are small by global standards with a large proportion of the population living outside these centres. However New Zealand has excelled on the world sporting scene. In the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, New Zealand finished with the fourth highest medal tally per capita. Findings extracted from player interviews revealed four dominant themes. • They engaged in a diverse range of sports when young • Unstructured, risky, outdoor play was a natural part of their life • They were allowed to roam and given responsibility • They had been surrounded by a positive motivational climate created by coaches, parents, siblings and peers A range of sports From primary to secondary school, participants played a variety of sports ranging from team games such as cricket, rugby and basketball to individual pursuits such as golf, shooting and mountain biking. Attending a small school (less than 300 students) was often mentioned as a reason for this and at

Olympic rowing champion Tom Murray is one of many Marlborough athletes to succeed on the world stage. Did his rural upbringing give him an advantage over his urban rivals? Photo: Rowing NZ. times, insufficient player numbers resulted in a mix of genders playing together. This was coupled with a supportive environment where participants were able to be make their own choices at an early age. Benefits from playing a variety of sports included gaining transferable skills, such as vision, handeye coordination, movement and footwork; and acquiring an understanding of the bigger picture of the game. They were also “fresh” when they did eventually decide to focus on a main sport later. Type of play Most participants’ early childhoods included unstructured, outdoor and risky play such as climbing rocks and trees, making huts and catching fish or bugs. All described having “muck around” sport and play as children. Responsibility and roaming They reported having high levels of responsibility placed on them at an early age such as caring for animals or jobs at home or on the farm. Roaming was generally more accepted by families when children were in larger groups looking out for each other and building a sense of community at an early age. Socio-emotional support All acknowledged the support of their families, emotionally, financially, and through travel. Having farming parents with flexible hours helped. Support and encouragement from coaches, siblings and peers were also mentioned. The sum of these factors created a “motivational climate” which supported athletic development. The findings provide further evidence that athletes can reach representative level despite specialising later and were less prone to burnout, shortened peak performance and increased injuries.

Community Notices

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

MONDAY

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

GENERAL GROUPS

TUESDAY

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TUESDAY 19 April 2022

Trades & Services

TRADES + SERVICES

SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESS

TRADES ADVERTISING DEADLINE: Friday 1:00pm |  928 4121 |  gemma@marlboroughmedia.co.nz |  www.topsouthmedia.co.nz

Classifieds

TUESDAY 19 April 2022

CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING DEADLINE: Friday 5:00pm |  gemma@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

SITUATIONS VACANT

DEATH

FIDLER

Robert Andrew (Bob) B Coy, 2nd Battalion, NZ Regiment, Service No. 824237. Passed away peacefully at Nelson Hospital on Sunday April 10, 2022. Aged 85 years. Son of Ken and Molly Fidler. Special big brother to all his siblings. Beloved husband to Kay. Loved father of Grant, Kayetrina, Stuart and Timothy. Loved Poppa Smurf of Laura, Cameron, Johanna, Alkira, Conner & Keanu. Special Great Pops to Amelia. Messages may be sent to 118 Beacon Road, RD 3, Blenheim 7273. In lieu of flowers a donation to the RSA Poppy Day Appeal would be appreciated and may be made at the service or sent to a/c 010598-0019901-51, Ref: FIDLER. A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at Mayfield Chapel, cnr Hutcheson and Parker Streets, Blenheim at 1.00pm on Wednesday April 20. Due to current Covid-19 restrictions, numbers indoors will be limited to 200. Respectfully cared for by

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