Nelson Weekly - 1 May 2024

Locally Owned and Operated

Tāhuna tree fenced off as ‘play risk’

KATE RUSSELL

A new wooden train will soon be chugging its way into the Tāhunanui Beach Lions Playground after the nearby macrocarpa tree was fenced off last week. The tree was deemed a “play risk” by an external Playsafe inspector and contractors have since increased the dune and fencing was

installed last Wednesday, at a cost of $7,592.

The old concrete train, which was installed by the Nelson Host Lions Club in 1964, was removed abruptly by Nelson City Council in September last year after it suffered damage and posed a health and safety risk.

After much shock, concern, and discussion from the communi-

Curtains draw on 64 years

GORDON PREECE

“Singing and music has been my life.”

Barbara Lane first took to the now-called Nelson Red Door Theatre stage in 1960, and she has charmed thousands in her plethora of timeless productions as well as playing a starring role on the committee.

The 93-year-old, who retired from the committee three years ago but still volunteers at the Atawhai Dr theatre, says she had returned to Nelson after a four-year stint as a nurse in Los Angeles when a friend invited her to an Oklahoma! rehearsal at the now defunct St Mary’s Hall.

She says the whole shebang of the local theatre scene at the Nelson Amateur Operatic Society, as it was known then, struck a chord with her to become involved.

“Singing and music has been my life, and I really loved the times when I was in the

SEE PAGE 4

ty following its departure, the club has announced that they are ready to begin on a replacement train.

“It will be wooden this time as this is more durable and user-friendly,” president Paul Mine says. The train will be built with the help of the MenzShed Waimea and the council, however, to have community involvement

and ownership in the project, a Givealittle page will be set up soon.

“Any assistance we can get will be appreciated and will go to the improvement of the playground,” Paul says.

The council’s acting group manager community services, Martin Croft, says other options were explored for the macrocarpa

tree, such as removing the tree, turning it into a play element, or cutting it back “substantially”.

These options were presented in a report by Playsafe, following an investigation the same month the train was removed. The investigation cost $575.

The recommended option in the

SEE PAGE 2

During her more than six decades at a Nelson theatre, Barbara Lane performed many roles including the lead in Chu Chin Chow in 1973 (pictured). Photo: Gordon Preece.

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“I enjoy the relationships with the people (at Nelson City Council), they listen and they take an interest.”

“Supportive team, working in the community and making a difference… I’m a nurse at Nelson Marlborough DHB.”

“The people (at Guytons), they’re amazing, very supportive and they always have a smile on their face.”

New train on the way

FROM PAGE 1

report was to turn the tree into a play structure, which would have involved reducing the overall height of the tree, cutting and repurposing the docked log elements and arranging them in a cluster, and integrating large rocks and logs to create a natural play feature.

However, this idea, as well as removing the tree, was viewed as too “extreme” or “costly” by council.

“Our parks team worked with Playsafe to find a solution that kept the tree in the spot we’re all familiar with while making sure safety concerns were addressed that also acknowledged current economic restraints,”

Martin says. “While the tree is solid, does not pose a risk of fall-

ing, and has become something of a feature in the landscape, an external Playsafe inspector did identify it as a play risk. Its

proximity to the playground and large branches is an invitation for kids to climb it.

“Council has to make sure its

playgrounds are safe. If we get professional advice that we need to make a change, we must take it seriously.”

Nic Kidson The Wood

Conor Walsh Tāhunanui

Cherie O’Donnell Enner Glynn

Bruce Mutton Nelson South

The old macrocarpa tree at the Tāhunanui Beach Lions Playground was fenced off last week after it was deemed a “play risk”. Photo: Kate Russell.

Alaron to cut 139 jobs

KATE RUSSELL

Following a consultation process, Alaron Products is losing more than half of its 250 employees.

The company is cutting 139 jobs after originally proposing to lose closer to 170. The job cuts took effect from 17 April. The award-winning Bolt Rd-based company is a contract manufacturer of natural healthcare products, dietary supplements, and natural skincare.

Alaron managing director Ron Geiger says that after several years of considerable growth,

the current economic conditions are influencing their customers. As a result, the business needs to consolidate and return to pre-Covid staffing levels.

“Alaron has seen a high level of success in recent times, however a rapid decline in workload within key market segments is influencing this business need.

Having built a strong and capable team, this is an extremely difficult time for our entire workforce.”

Ron says they are working closely with their team, local companies, and government agencies to find alternative em-

ployment opportunities and support.

The company experienced unprecedented growth in 2020 and 2021, which was credited to a “fierce” increase in the global market for health products due to people taking their health and well-being more seriously during the coronavirus pandemic.

In 2021 the company employed 130 people in a range of roles from production, team leaders, supervisors, and managers to warehouse, logistics, and purchasing staff.

The company has been running locally since 1993.

Alaron Products on Bolt Rd have cut 139 jobs following a consultation process. Photo: Kate Russell.

Curtains draw on 64 years

FROM PAGE 1

shows,” she says.

“I still am very fond of Gilbert and Sullivan, and I think my favourite role was when we did Yeoman of the Guard, I enjoyed that, and then my last major principal role was in Fiddler on the Roof.”

Barbara says her leading role in the musical tale from the Far East, Chu Chin Chow, was also a highlight.

She says the theatre has had several homes over 64 years.

“When I first joined, we had no home at all, the wardrobe was stored in various places, there was an old stable up behind Melrose that was used, then we got lent some rooms on Bridge St,” she says.

“Then we moved up to St Vincent St and we had a rather disastrous fire, we lost all

our wardrobe and everything.

“Then we moved to down behind the Theatre Royal, we were there for two or three years, and then we were offered [the current] building.”

Barbara says she was also instrumental in the theatre’s wardrobe department, hiring costumes and outfitting certain shows.

“The makeup has changed to a little sophisticated lighting that [the theatre has] got, now they don’t use a lot of the old, heavy, lycra makeup that we used to use apart from doing character work,” she says.

“They just use ordinary heavy street makeup nowadays.”

Red Door Theatre hosted an afternoon tea for Barbara last month to thank her for her commitment to the arts over the last six decades.

GO NUTS FOR DO-

NUTS: An abundance of sprinkles topped many icing cascades at the Smoking Barrell’s school holiday donut decorating day. It was the first time the Motueka café has held the event since Covid, and a stream of 260 children tried their hands at creating a circular masterpiece. Tāhunanui’s Nova-Jane Te Heuheu, 3, was one of last Wednesday’s budding pastry chefs.

Elise Vollweiler.

Maths course free for Weekly readers

Top South Media has teamed up with Boost Your Learning, a fast-growing Nelson-based business specialising in one-to-one tuition for students from Primary to NCEA.

The reader offer is designed to provide some essential online support for Year 10 and 11 students taking their Numeracy CAA at NCEA Level 1 at the end of May. The online course normally costs $100 but is being offered free to student readers of Nelson Weekly.

Andrew Board, publisher of Nelson Weekly, welcomed the initiative.

“We are pleased to be able to offer our readers this opportunity to help students for whom this year’s NCEA Level 1 Maths exam is fast approaching. While their interactive course is available elsewhere in New Zealand for $100, it is good to be working with a local business that is clearly an innovator in developing one-to-one tutorials and keen

to give free online support to encourage, complement and reinforce this region’s mainstream educational sector.”

Boost your Learning’s founder and managing director, Amy Johnson, added, “Although we only started the business less than three years ago, we have seen outstanding and transformational results from our one-to-one tuition, which is provided by an expanding team of highly-experienced and committed teachers. Therefore, creating an online course to cover all the content and skills required to gain basic numeracy skills to pass the CAA was a natural and logical step. We wanted to extend our support to local families through this offer, equipping students with the numeracy skills they need to thrive in their exam, while nurturing an enjoyment of mathematics”. With numeracy failure rates at more than 40 per cent nationally, this interactive online opportunity is now freely available to all

local families with students preparing for this important exam. There are four modules in the course: Number, Geometry, Measurement and Statistics. Students taking the course will learn key content and skills in areas such as percentages, ratios, calculator technique, angles, volume and statistical interpretation. Each module is split into a series of five minute lessons with an experienced teacher. Along with an interactive quiz, instant feedback, follow-up work and handy downloadables, the total package is cleverly designed to build NCEA Numeracy skills. The tutorials are fully interactive, easy to understand and will help students feel more confident and supported as they prepare for the NCEA exam.

To take advantage of the reader offer, visit www.boostyourlearning.co.nz/courses before May 10 and use the promo code ‘TOP BOOST’

Photo:

‘Teamwork makes the dream work’

KATE RUSSELL

Nelson Intermediate School’s boys’ basketball team not only got the funding assist they were looking for to attend the South Island Primary Basketball Tournament last week - they also won it.

In March, the team put a call out through the Nelson Weekly for sponsorship to get to the tournament in Rangiora.

They needed $3000, and thankfully, a group of local businesses came on board, including Atawhai Takeaways, OS2 Performance Apparel, Renovate Me, Mitre 10 Mega, and Projects and Ventures, to allow them to get to the four-day tournament.

The team, coached by teacher Tony Jenkins, took out the Boys Open 5x5 grade, winning the final 56-55 in overtime against Horomaka.

It was the school’s debut at the competition, and they also won the Whakawhānaungatanga Spirit Award for good sportsmanship, teamwork, and determination.

“That was the icing on the cake for the boys,” says Tony. He says, for some of the boys, it was their first time travelling out of Nelson overnight.

“There were definitely a few nerves.”

The team was placed in a tough pool, with three of the teams finishing in the top three.

They only lost one game, against Horomaka, whom they met again in the final showdown.

Tony says he was “proud” of the boys’ sportsmanship in the semi-final against a North Canterbury team.

“One of the North Canterbury players went down with an injury with about 20 seconds to go.

“All five boys from Nelson Intermediate ran over to him straight away to help him up and get him back to the bench.

After the game, they were all going over giving support and hugs.”

previous game,” he says.

“This gave our boys a big lift of confidence, knowing we had support.

“Then, throughout the game we just seemed to get more and more support coming our way from the crowd. It was an awesome atmosphere,” he adds.

Tony says they weren’t expecting much crowd support at the final match - but that wasn’t the case at all.

“The whole North Canterbury squad came down to support us, because of the boys’ sportsmanship in the

“I couldn’t be prouder of the boys.”

Tony says they were all “super stoked” to win the tournament and they couldn’t have done it without all the people and businesses that donated to their trip.

“Our sponsors along with our fundraisers made it a free trip for all the boys and

Further blow to Rocks Road

It’s becoming clear to everyone now that the National Government has no intention of funding the much-needed upgrade to Rocks Road. The project wasn’t mentioned once in NZTA’s recently released State Highway Investment Proposal that outlines investment planned for state highways across the country for the next decade.

Rocks Rd is in bad shape. We have a state highway that closes during severe weather and the Government has dropped the project to upgrade the road - it’s outrageous.

Rocks Rd is a priority for our entire region – the project has support from the Joint Nelson Tasman Regional Transport Committee. It’s clear that our communities across the region agree that something needs to be done to fix Rocks Rd.

That’s why Labour in government listened to our regional leaders and made Rocks Rd a priority, alongside the Hope Bypass. I am also very concerned that the consenting and building of the Hope Bypass will be delayed by the National Government.

My thanks to those who came along to our public meeting at the Boathouse last Tuesday. Please visit my office or my Facebook page to sign my petition. Together, we can get Rocks Rd back on the Government’s agenda.

we had a bit extra, so they got to have a great experience at Orana Wildlife Park and QEII Pool.”

The team organised a 3x3 fundraiser tournament in March for local primary schools which saw seven teams enter and just over $600 raised.

Team member Bawi Tha Thawng Zaathang says the highlight of the tournament for him was “meeting new teams”.

Felix Laird adds the trip was “quite nerve-racking but so much fun”.

“I am so happy our team fought so hard the whole time and never gave up. Because of this, we ended up winning. I wish I could do it again.”

Keeley Redwood says he learnt to “always be respectful to your teammates and opposition, whether you win or lose”.

“Teamwork makes the dream work.”

Back row, from left: Keeley Redwood, Jose Mosquera Bellaizac, Charlie Heathfield, Cesar Mosquera Bellaizac, Felix Laird. Front row: Brigham Samuela, Mason Kerdemelidis (vice-captain), Bawi Lian Thang (captain), Bawi Tha Thawng Zaathang, Te Amorangi Rewha-Kokiri-Dunn and Tony Jenkins (coach). Photo: Supplied.

Whizz for whizzy technology

GORDON PREECE

A Nelson College graduate is cracking the code for helping Nelson Tasman better understand a technology that is growing in influence worldwide.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the term for computational methods and techniques that solve problems, make decisions or perform tasks that, if performed by humans, would require thought. The growth in its use is being helped by the convergence of advances in storage technology, computers, and the internet.

Liam Goodger, who jets off to America’s Show Me State, Missouri, in August to pursue a computer science degree and compete in football, is currently a coordinator of a newly-established site to get the public up to speed with the technology.

Nelson AI Sandbox in the central city was established in March to provide AI guidance for the community.

“Mostly, my role [at Nelson AI Sandbox] is to talk to people about AI, the risks involved with it, the tools that they can use to help themselves and just every-

thing that they can do with AI to be ahead of the game, compared to the rest of the world,” Liam says.

“Any repetitive, menial tasks that we’re doing, AI is really good at doing those tasks and freeing up time to focus on pursuits that

people enjoy… I think AI can be used in pretty much every workplace in Nelson.

“We’ve had a lot of positive reac-

tions from people coming in, a lot of people are really interested in AI and what we’re doing here at the Sandbox, so it’s been a great public response so far.”

Liam says one of his teachers at Nelson College, Richard Brudvik-Lindner, who co-founded Nelson AI Sandbox, started up his AI fascination.

“We had a big discussion on AI and where it would go in year 10… and then with ChatGPT coming out in 2022, it got a lot of people interested,” he says.

“It has really just grown from there, especially in the last six months as I’ve been diving further into what AI can actually do.”

The 18-year-old says Nelson AI Sandbox also allows him to demonstrate that AI isn’t code black.

“As with any tool, there are negative uses for it, we’re not here to tell people that AI is only for good because AI can obviously be used for bad purposes as well.

“I think it’s just about recognising what those purposes are, and how AI can be used to hurt people, and being aware of that so that you can protect yourself from that in the future.”

International Compost Awareness Week

Nature’s way of recycling

To celebrate International Compost Awareness Week, Rethink Waste Whakaarohia and its partners in the community are offering a range of free workshops, events and activities. Whether you’re just getting started, or need a little help trouble shooting, there’s something for you. Plus, there’s some great giveaways and prizes to be won.

FREE Compost Events:

Compost 'How to' Hub at the Saturday Market

Saturday 4 May, 8am - 1pm at the Nelson Markets

Troubleshoot your compost questions - great giveaways for dropping in!

Mitre 10 Mega Compost Display

All week, starting 5 May, inside Mitre 10 Mega Garden Centre Drop in anytime and enter the prize draw.

Compost 101

Wednesday 8 May, 4 - 5pm, Richmond Library

Thursday 9 May, 4 - 5pm, Motueka Library

To learn more or sign up to these events visit: nelson.govt.nz/international-compost-awareness-week

NCC Elma Turner Library Workshop - Composting Hacks with Kate

Thursday 9 May, 12.30 -1.30pm Community Compost Saturday Club

Saturday 11 May, 9 - 11am at Waimarama Community Gardens

Get hands on with compost. Runs every Saturday.

Tim’s Garden - Composting 101 Workshops

Saturday 11 May, 10 - 11am at Tim’s Garden

Free coffee, goody bag and prize draw. Light refreshments and spot prizes.

Compost Workshop

Saturday 11 May, 1 - 5pm, Golden Bay, Co-housing Community Theory and practical.

Liam Goodger says artificial intelligence could be used in many Nelson workplaces. Photo: Jack Malcolm.

POPPIES FOR ANZAC DAY: Children at Learning Land on Tasman St got into the Anzac spirit last week by making their own poppies and adorning their front fence and gate with their creations. The children have been working hard on the special project since the beginning of the year and they used fabric and wood rounds to make the poppies. They have also been learning about the significance of the poppies and what Anzac Day means during their mat times. The children even got to bake their own Anzac biscuits last Wednesday with the Learning Land teachers. Pictured from left are Henry Hunter, 5, Freddie Middleton, 4, Chase Marshall, 3, Amelia Williamson, 4, Indie Simpson, 3, and Ellie Dymond, 3, with their poppies.

Kate Russell.

WHALE WASHES ASHORE: The carcass of a large whale which washed ashore near the Nelson Golf Course has been buried. The 17.5m whale is thought to be a pygmy blue whale, with tissue samples taken for genetic testing to determine the species. Te Tau Ihu iwi representatives blessed the dead whale, and it was buried on site on Sunday morning. Bystanders were warned not to get too close to the whale carcass because they can explode during decomposition. Photo: Supplied.

Photo:

Council turns off Facebook comments

SAMANTHA GEE RNZ

Comments criticising local councils on social media is nothing new, but a photo making fun of roadworkers in Nelson has led council to take a different approach.

A member of the public recently posted a photo of roadworks in Nelson on a community Facebook page, poking fun at seven council contractors working on a resealing project in Atawhai.

Nelson City Council communications manager James Murray says the caption indicated the workers were standing around doing nothing and many of the comments on the Facebook post, which was eventually removed by the page admin, were either unfair criticism or misinformation.

As a result, James and his team had taken a different approach on social media.

They reposted the photo on the Nelson City Council’s Facebook page to provide more context about the process behind the work.

James says the photo showed a lab technician testing ground layers to ensure they were dry enough to lay asphalt, and it was a moment in time with a limited view of the work site.

The post compared infrastructure work to baking bread - it said some of the time had to be spent

kneading dough, while at other times the dough had to be left to do its thing.

The post garnered more than 800 reactions and more than 300 comments. Some complimented the council’s approach.

“Really cool response to this photo being posted about on a local page, well done. And I love learning a little bit about something I know nothing about,” one comment read.

“Good on you Nelson City Council. These guys do work extremely hard. I would like to see those arm chair experts that like to criticise them while knowing nothing about their job dig a trench in the height of summer or in the rain when the ground is soaking wet.”

Others remained unimpressed.

“It’s an all too common sight these days,” one said.

“Did y’all really just try to justify why there’s so many people standing around doing nothing?

And someone in the council just got paid to justify this whole photo? Good to see ratepayers monies a work.

“Now show us a photo where they’re all working. Maybe we share this strategy with home builders. Get the electrician, roofer and the painters out there while they’re doing the excavation so that they’re ‘all ready to go’ ... by the way, a supervisor and a boss? For 7 people? Perhaps

Nelson City Council edited this photo, taken by a member of the community, to identify each of the workers’ roles. The community member’s original caption indicated only one person in the photo was working. Photo: Facebook/Supplied.

instead of justifying these scenes we should be holding these companies to account...”

James says social media had changed dramatically in recent years and the council’s social media strategy was being updated to reflect that.

“Outside of this incident, anyone working with social media over the past 15 years would tell you that what started out as a place where people could hold a decent debate about public life has ended up being something quite different.

“Despite the efforts of some community members who do their best to keep things civil, comments sections for local and

central government and media are full of misplaced rage, unfair criticism of staff and misinformation.”

The communications team had reviewed three months of Facebook data and found approximately 25 per cent of comments on its pages were from 46 people, James says.

“This is not a representative cross-section of our city, and the time council staff have to spend moderating comments for abuse and misinformation is not a good use of ratepayer money.”

To counter this, comments would now be turned off on “information only” posts. People could still comment on posts where

feedback was useful, but staff had the option to turn them off after users had been given the opportunity to comment.

James says the comments section was not a healthy way to debate issues the community was facing. “I often spend time reassuring staff who are distressed by commentary on social media. It’s not OK to call people working for their city ‘idiots’ or ‘clowns’, and we’re under no obligation to respond to people who engage with us in that manner.”

He says staff would use the extra time to create higher quality, more engaging social media posts and make better use of other channels of communication such as Antenno.

The Nelson (New Zealand) Community Group Facebook page, where the photo was originally posted, was created five years ago and now has close to 30,000 members.

One of its admins said the photo of the road workers was taken down shortly after being posted because of the number of nasty comments it had attracted and because it identified a number of people who were potentially unaware their photo had been posted online. They were pleased to see the Nelson City Council’s response. The admin said, as the group had grown there had been an increase in nastiness, threats and offensive material.

Combining a dual passion to provide outstanding local services

workplace, Kath’s melodic renditions promise to enchant audiences. For bookings and inquiries, contact Kath via email at kathmaymusic@ gmail.com.

The entrepreneurial spirit shines brightly through local business owner Kath Pringle, who is embarking on an exciting new journey by launching two distinct business endeavours. With a recent milestone birthday marking the beginning of a new chapter, Kath introduces Phoenix Housekeeping (PH) and Kath May Music (KMM) to her community. Born and raised in Nelson, Kath says one venture showcases her meticulous attention to detail and love for cleaning while the other combines her experience in the music industry with her talent for the creative. Having been part of the band 2 Tribes in the late 90s and early 2000s and serving as a company director for Event Audio, a local sound system company, Kath brings a unique blend of experience to her new ventures. “I am excited to be combining my love of cleaning and keeping people’s homes clean with that of loving the songs of Fleetwood Mac and Steve Nicks.”

Kath May Music: Offering a unique twist on the traditional ‘Singing Telegram’ concept, Kath specialises in the timeless tunes of Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks. As a singer-songwriter and worship leader, Kath’s performances on the keyboard add a touch of magic to any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, wedding ceremony, or a surprise performance at the

Phoenix Housekeeping: On the domestic front, Kath promises to elevate the standard of cleanliness and care in Nelson’s luxury homes and Airbnb’s. Utilising her expertise as an Administration Officer and Health and Safety Officer for the Nelson Tasman District of the Department of Corrections, Kath ensures the highest level of confidentiality and trust in her housekeeping services. Fully police-vetted and committed to honesty and integrity, Kath’s attention to detail transforms every space she touches. “I am fully police vetted and I bring this same level of honesty and integrity to my role as a housekeeper within a client’s property.” Specialising in large luxury homes and Airbnbs, Phoenix Housekeeping offers comprehensive cleaning services tailored to meet every client’s needs. For inquiries and pricing details, reach out to Kath via email at phoenixhousekeepingnz@gmail.com.

For those eager to experience the magic of Kath May Music or the pristine cleanliness of Phoenix Housekeeping, contact Kath directly at 021 615 593.

Trial to recycle construction waste

Nelson City Council and Nelson Environment Centre (NEC) have launched a trial project to tackle the high volume of construction and demolition waste that ends up in Nelson’s landfill.

Construction waste is a significant contributor of waste to landfill and this initiative, called ‘Reconstruct’, allows construction companies to make sure valuable resources can be recovered and reused by the community.

Launching on 24 April, builders are now able to start bringing leftover construction materials to NEC and those materials will become available to the public in four to six weeks’ time.

Materials arriving on trailers and light commercial trucks will be assessed by NEC staff, then directed to the new facility where the materials can be unloaded.

There’s a long list of materials that will be accepted including timber, fittings like doors, windows and kitchen fittings, plumbing and piping, gib, paint, and roofing iron.

NEC chief executive Anton Drazevic says giving people the opportunity to reuse construction materials in their own DIY projects is a “no-brainer”.

“Figures from Statistics New Zea-

land show that in the years 2020 – 2022, the price of construction material for DIYers has risen by 25 per cent. We have been accepting some materials like doors, windows and pipes for a while, but this initiative will allow us to considerably expand our offer.

“With costs increasing across the board, we’re seeing a lot of people through our ReUse store deciding to give things a second life. Reconstruct helps fill a gap in the market. Recycling is often seen as the best option, but reusing materials is the more sustainable choice because it reduces the need to produce new products

and can help cut down on waste.”

Construction and demolition waste may account for 50 per cent of all waste generated in New Zealand, with at least 70 per cent of that being reusable or recyclable. Scott Construction implemented reuse into their practices in 2022 and have seen strong results. In March, on a project at Olive Estate, Scott Construction successfully diverted 80 per cent of their materials from landfill.

Training and staff development manager Steve McIntyre says prioritising waste diversion requires ongoing education until it becomes routine behaviour, a

culture within the company and the wider industry.

“There are a few different skips onsite, some to collect plasterboard, cardboard, some for PVC pipe and steel.”

Nelson’s four largest building companies — Coman Construction, Gibbons, Fitzgerald Construction, and Scott Construction — along with Nelson City and Tasman District Councils, form the

Nelson Construction Environment Alliance.

“I love the way Nelson Environment Centre, council and building companies have partnered to make this as practical as possible for the industry,” Nelson Mayor Nick Smith says.

From left is Scott Construction’s Steve McIntyre, Nelson Mayor Nick Smith, and Nelson Environment Centre’s Anton Drazevic. Photo: Supplied/Nelson City Council.

Molly, 16, and Brian McManus

Rupert and Mitchell MacLachlan, 11

Simon Howells and Riley Power

Sophie, 12, and John Morgan

Trudy Hart and Keith Shaw

David, Chrstine, Amara, 9, and Robert Wheeler, 14.

Gary and Verner Drummond. Jim and Bridget Austin

Ann and Dave Briggs

Ellie and Nathan Springer

While the Saturday morning cold was too much for some, a smaller than expected but more dedicated crew of paddlers like Wendy Kitchener and her dog Mia came out for the annual Pooch Paddle on the Maitai River. Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Snippets of Nelson City Council’s 150-year history

Nelsonians who liked to stop for a natter provoked the ire of the Nelson Automobile Association, which wrote to Nelson City Council in June 1919 asking if something could be done to make people stop “loitering and gossiping” at the intersection of Trafalgar and Hardy Sts, obstructing vehicles. The AA also asked Council to notify police of the prevalent practice of drivers failing to observe the rule of the road and the equally common offence – indulged chiefly by horse-drawn vehicles – of driving without lights. Regarding accidents, while the AA committee was prepared to accept motorists were sometimes to blame, “it would be fallacious to assume that negligent pedestrians are not also a contributory factor”. Pictured horse-drawn vehicles and motor cars on Trafalgar St. Photo: Nelson Provincial Museum, Stewart Collection: 316905.

Have your say:

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Seal of approval for riverside guest

Sorry we missed them. One of our favourite spots.

Margaret Brown

Popped in for sardines on toast.

Rene Rowling

Bus service costs overshoot by $1m

The alarming cost overrun of Nelson electric buses is yet another example of Nelson council failing to stay within budget, no matter what the project. The dire financial position of the eBus operation and their almost total unsuitability for Nelson’s delicate streets and topography confirms that an enormous mistake has been made in the introduction of these overweight vehicles.

Dan McGuire

Kings Award capped off

Congratulations Josh, that’s a huge achievement.

Jim Mallory

Following a great tradition of members of IronDuke. King scouts, Queen scouts, Duke of Edinburgh awards. Congratulations.

Dave Roberts

Fantastic! Very well done and congratulations.

Ann Davidson

Grand master aims to trump world’s best

Doesn’t matter what it is in life, if you love it you’ll succeed. This guy’s the man.

Josh Josh

Lions uproar for project protection

I read that the council was going to cull the deer. Hope they donate the meat to the food bank. Get the hunters around to help, they will

Become a midwife

know what to do.

Diane Higgins

The deer range over a wide area in the hills around Marsden and Ngawhatu to forage. They cross several farms as well as public areas. As far as I can tell there are no ear tags. This has happened for many years but being particularly dry recently, they seem to be more visible as they seek food.

Andy Pandy

Nelson College appoints new principal

Wow Washie, congratulations mate. Bloody good from the humble PE teacher at Mairehau all those years ago.

Evelyn Boath

Stoke OnDemand stoppage ‘disappointing’ for passenger

With a broken foot, ACC should be able to help with transport costs. Contact ACC. Diane Chandler

Nelson Matters

Hon Dr Nick Smith

CAMPING WITH NATURE

Nelson’s Brook Waimārama Sanctuary is an amazing conservation asset right on the doorstep of our city. The 690-hectare reserve has been protected with a 14km predator-proof fence that makes it the largest sanctuary for native wildlife in the South Island.

It has taken more than 20 years, millions in fundraising and thousands of volunteer hours to develop this wildlife sanctuary. Already it has seen translocations to Nelson of species such as tīeke (saddleback), kākāriki karaka (orangefronted parakeet) and Powelliphanta (a native snail). Plans are well under way for the reintroduction of kiwi, kākā and tuatara.

This week we signed a lease for the Sanctuary Trust to take over management of the adjacent Brook Valley Holiday Park from Council. The five-year lease of the campground reserve is for $1 a year and Council is to pay the Trust $400,000 for the first two years to manage the campground. It’s a good deal for the Sanctuary, Council and city.

The benefit to the Sanctuary is the opportunity to expand its role in tourism and as an educational and conservation advocacy centre. It currently has little flat land for parking, nature tours, community events and conservation education.

Midwifery information sessions

Join one of our free information sessions in May to discover how you can study the Bachelor of Midwifery in your own community with the support of locally based midwifery tutors and learn about employment opportunities in your region.

Attend online via Zoom or in person.

Find out more and register at: ara.ac.nz/become-a-midwife

Ara is a Business Division of Te Pūkenga –New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology

It’s good for Council in that running campgrounds is not our core business and it saves ratepayers money. The current campground is costing ratepayers more than $500,000 a year as the income from campers is a fraction of the costs of managing and maintaining the campground.

The gain for the city is in strengthening Nelson’s identity as a nature tourism centre. It enables the Trust to offer a unique tourism experience of camping next to the Sanctuary, enjoying New Zealand’s beautiful dawn chorus and to do night and day tours. The future is in offering experiences of wildlife in its natural habitat.

I also want our Council to revisit the extent to which we allow freedom campers in many parts of the city. If campgrounds such as Tāhunanui and Brook, now under new management, are to be financially sustainable, we need to tighten up on allowing free camping in other areas of the city.

This is an opportunity to grow Nelson’s nature sanctuary into something even more special.

Nick Smith MAYOR OF NELSON

Retired female professionals sought

GORDON PREECE

Walking trips, gardening, and mystery bus tours to the Top of the South’s prosperous eateries and art galleries await the next members of a local social club for retired and semi-retired women.

The Stoke Tāhunanui Ladies Rebus Club was first established in 1989 as a Probus club before it morphed into a Rebus club in 2017.

Rebus is a contraction of the words retired and business, while Probus combines the words professional and business.

President Pamela Lockyer says the club has around 50 members, but some are aging, which has led to a call for more younger members (aged 70 plus) to jump on the bandwagon.

“The importance of it is that a lot of people, once they’ve retired, don’t have a lot of social connection out there,” she says.

“I’m sure there is a lot of ladies that would enjoy being members of our club, it’s a way of meeting lots of new women and making good friends.

“We’re after as many as possible, we had a stall at the Positive Ageing Expo at the Headingly Centre in Richmond [on 6 April], and we

have potentially recruited about four new members from that.”

Pamela says meetings are held every third Wednesday of each month at Nelson Golf Club where birthday celebrations, guest speakers and business information are on the agenda.

“Our members enjoy our general meetings and there’s a lot of

friendly banter and excitement, and it’s really great as president seeing all their smiling faces,” she says.

Pamela says that walking trips and gardening days cultivate relationships within the group, and mystery bus tours kept the trajectory.

“We go as far as Blenheim. In the

past we’ve done big tours like to Wellington, but due to the costs now it’s just prohibitive and also, with an aging membership, it’s not quite so easy,” she says.

“But the mystery bus tours are all patronised by our members, we will get a busload of 30 on any of these tours we do, they’re a lot of fun.”

Create a space that celebrates the beauty and warmth of Autumn.

Pamela says the club also host a fundraising stall for the Cancer Society on Daffodil Day and pink ribbon lunches to support Breast Cancer Foundation NZ.

If you’re interested in becoming a Stoke Tāhunanui Ladies Rebus Club member, please contact president Pamela Lockyer on 027 675 8874.

From left, Stoke Tāhunanui Ladies Rebus Club’s Valda Holland, Judy Codyre, and Pamela Lockyer. Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Hundreds converge on city for ANZAC

Hundreds gathered in Nelson city on Thursday morning to mark Anzac Day. The day of remembrance falls on the anniversary of the landing on the now Turkish peninsula of Gallipoli by New Zealand and Australian troops in 1915, part of an ultimately unsuccessful military campaign for the Allies which cost 130,000 lives over 10 months, among them 2779 Kiwis.

Photos: Evan Barnes.

Above: RSA vice president Barry Pont speaking at the Dawn Service at Anzac Park.

Left: Navy veteran Scott Trusler.

Above: New Zealand Defence Force personnel march along Paru Paru Rd following the dawn ceremony.

and those wishing to pay respect to those who gave their lives.

The Dawn Ceremony at Nelson’s Anzac Park, pictured above, was followed by a march to Trafalgar Centre. It was attended by veterans, their families,

Bugler Sgt Mason Robinson RNZAF played The Last Post at Nelson’s Anzac Park on Thursday morning.

Moutere’s upper and lower strength facility

GORDON PREECE

Nelson Obstacle Park in the Moutere Hills is climbing the walls and swinging into the growing world of competitive obstacle course racing in Aotearoa.

Personal trainer Julia Kelly and her builder partner Kevin Ford, who both live in Nelson, have transformed 104 hectares of bushland into a purpose-built obstacle park with 50 arduous obstacles over four courses ranging between 2.5 and 10km.

The couple have also revitalised the annual Wairua Warrior event at their Moutere Highway venue with the first under their ownership taking place in September last year, pulling in 540 international and domestic competitors. The event was previously owned by Greg and Donna Witika and held at Cable Bay Adventure Park, before the pair moved up north.

Julia says it took three months of “hard slog” and “sleepless nights” in May last year to construct the “only permanent [obstacle] park in New Zealand” with assistance from local donors and sponsors.

“It has got over 50 obstacles, we’ve got something called a Valkyrie, it’s a great big scaffolding arch with hoops hanging off it and you go up and over with your hands,” she says. “We’ve got a warrior ladder, which is two ladders, huge wooden ones against each other, and the competitor has to use their hands to go up the inside,

New Woolworths for The Junction Woolworths hope to begin construction on their new supermarket at The Junction later this year. The new Woolworths building will be 4,000 sqm in area with 190 carparks and include all of the latest store features and de-

across the top, and come back down again.”

Julia says to go from bush to a dedicated obstacle course and a platform for a bustling local sports event was “absolutely amazing” for her and Kevin, who is also a globetrotting obstacle course competitor.

“To see all that finally come to fruition was quite overwhelming, it was breathtaking, it was beautiful, and to be able to provide a

signs. The Woolworths store will be a Greenstar rated development, similar to the Woolworths in Richmond which was New Zealand’s first Greenstar rated supermarket development.

Woolworths New Zealand’s director of property, Matthew Grainger, says they are also ex-

service like that was incredible.”

Julia says she and Kevin are also members of the New Zealand Obstacle Sport Association which arranges obstacle course athletes’ entries in major events like the OCR World Championships and the Olympics. She says a group of Nelsonians are currently training for the world champs in Costa Rica in August, including her partner, Cody Scott, Roydon Hawks, Gareth Moore and Na-

ploring options to upgrade our existing local stores and will share plans for this with the community in due course.

New pedestrian refuges for Tāhunanui

Waka Kotahi NZTA has an-

than Edwards, and the park is a game-changer for them.

“A lot of these guys will be the ones that will be applying for the Olympics,” she says. “There’s a point system, each race gives you points, there are only four events annually in New Zealand, and we’ve got three of the points.

“The more points you get, the more likely you are to represent New Zealand and at some point the Olympics.”

nounced two pedestrian refuges will be installed on State Highway 6 this month, starting on 7 May.

One is planned for outside 216 Annesbrook Dr and another for Tāhunanui Dr, outside McDonalds and St Stephen’s Church.

The pedestrian refuges will make it easier for people to cross the

Julia says the next Wairua Warrior event at the park will be held between 25 and 26 May. Open days are also held at the park at the end of each month for anyone to unleash their inner warrior. They also offer private bookings for individuals and groups throughout the year. Visit nelsonobstaclepark.co.nz for more information and to register for the Wairua Warrior and individual and group use.

road to access businesses, houses, and bus stops, while maintaining safe and consistent access for traffic.

Work will occur between 8am and 5pm, but some night works will be required to lift the refuges into place. The project is expected to be complete by 22 May.

Julia Kelly and Kevin Ford have unleashed their inner warrior by constructing a leading New Zealand obstacle course in the Moutere Hills. Photo: Gordon Preece.

Empowering menopausal women in our community

ELOISE MARTYN

Richmond-based Liz van

Beek is about to launch an in-person series to empower women to be proactive and self-supporting through the many stages of menopause.

Around the age of 40, Liz started to experience a lot of physical pain and discomfort.

She put it down to her intrepid past of 20 years in adventure tourism, carrying heavy packs and jumping rivers.

However, when she returned home to New Zealand, she realised her symptoms were related to menopause.

So, she took control and embarked on a journey of healing which she is now keen to share with other women through sessions titled ‘Too Hot to Handle’.

“It was a horrible timementally challenging and debilitating for around three years. I had stopped running, it

was that painful,” Liz explains.

Liz began to study and trained under Wendy Sweet, a woman with a swag of experience in nursing, physical education, and fitness training and a menopause expert who has guided women worldwide through ‘the change’.

“I found that small changes brought huge results - things like helping your body by eating less processed food, clean foods, getting back to basics and combining small changes with holistic health modalities that you can do on yourself,” Liz says.

Inspired by the simplicity and vast improvements, Liz has dedicated herself to working professionally in the holistic health field for the past 12 years.

It is this work that she says has given her experience and knowledge that she is keen to share with other women to enable them to support themselves through the many stages of

what’s been labelled as ‘the change’.

“It’s so easy to do these things for yourself once you know how and what to do,” Liz adds.

Starting this month, Liz is welcoming women to weekly ‘Too Hot to Handle’ sessions rotating between Motueka Library and the Nelson Women’s Centre, to come together and work as a community to support women to examine what’s happening for them mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, to enable them to be proactive and self-supporting.

“Sure, we will have information to hand out, but the sessions will be mainly conversation-based and focused on sharing experiences,” Liz says.

Koha (donation) at sessions towards venue hire cost is appreciated.

Anyone interested in connecting can email Liz at info@natureseffusion.com

Liz van Beek is getting ready to share her menopausal journey with other local women to enable them to support themselves though the many stages of ‘the change’. Photo: Supplied.

Nelson Suburbs Football Club

2024 Home Matches at Saxton field

Sunday 5th May Bye

Saturday 11th May Kate Sheppard Chatham Cup R1 TBC

Saturday 18th May 12pm vs Cashmere Technical Away game

Sunday 26th May 2pm vs Selwyn Home game

Post Qualifying round draw TBC

HIGH LEVEL WOMEN’S BACK FOR

Nelson Suburbs Football Club is bringing high level women’s football to the Nelson/ Tasman region again for 2024 and are currently playing a round of games in the South Island Qualifying League. The girl’s have two more games left against Cashmere Technical and Selwyn, in order to secure qualification into the South Island League. The team was formed at the start of the 2023 season.

A huge amount of work has gone in behind the scenes to get the team ready again this season. The club has appointed head coach Neil Harding and assistant coach Phill Platt. Neil and Phill have worked hard to build a squad that plays attractive football.

Club director of football Ryan Stewart says the club is proud of the football pathway it has created for female players, “The pathway ensures long term sustainability and that there is a flow of players from junior, youth, academy and reserves so the club’s and region’s talented players get an opportunity to test themselves against some of the country’s top teams.”

WOMEN’S FOOTBALL FOR 2024 Savannah Smith

Neil Harding says “the coaches have been impressed with the players attitude, dedication and hard work at trainings and these qualities have helped with match day performances, where we have competed well against good quality opposition”.

Club manager Phil Williams also added “The formation of the Women’s 1st team would not have been possible without the amazing support of our sponsors. Phil Smith of Golden Bay Football Club has personally sponsored the team as principal sponsor and asked for Hope is my Homeboy, a mental health charity, to feature on the front of the playing shirts. Fusion Plumbing and Solar, O2B Healthy and Spark Business Hub Tasman are gold sponsors and Miki D’s Gym and GRACO car seats are also on board as silver sponsors. Along with our team sponsors we would also like to thank all our amazing player sponsors. The support for the team has been fantastic.”

The team plays its final SIQL home game against Selwyn on Sunday 26th May.

GISELLE RYNVOS

LARA TUTTY

GABBY WALTON

Phil & Savannah Smith

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Sanctuary takes over management of Brook Valley Holiday Park

SUPPLIED CONTENT

The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary Trust is taking over the management of the Brook Valley Holiday Park from Nelson City Council.

The trust and the council signed the agreements on Monday for the trust to lease the Brook Reserve and manage the campground.

It will take over management from 1 June for five years and, for the first two years of the lease only, will receive a yearly campground management fee of $400,000 to ensure the transition from council to the trust is successful.

Sanctuary chief executive Ru Collin says the decision to take over the camp is part of their ongoing commitment to safeguarding natural habitats and fostering sustainable practices within the region, as well as providing additional opportunities for visitor experience.

“Managing the Brook Valley Holiday Park is a great opportunity and we consider it a pivotal step towards creating a model for sustainable recreation and conservation in the Nelson area.

“We are committed to ensuring the site remains a treasure for

the community, while contributing to the broader ecological health of the region and we hope to see the campground features complement the activities of the Sanctuary.”

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith says having the sanctuary lease the reserve and manage the campground is good for the sanctuary, council and the city.

“The Brook Waimārama Sanctuary, right on Nelson’s doorstep, is an incredible conservation asset as the largest pest-free haven in

the South Island for New Zealand’s unique wildlife.

“The lease of the reserve at the entrance to the sanctuary and taking over the management of the campground gives the sanctuary, which currently has very little flat land, the opportunity to expand its role in tourism and as an educational and conservation advocacy centre.

“This initiative is good for the council as running a campground is not our core business, it’s good for ratepayers in that the

campground currently costs our ratepayers over $500,000 per year and the new agreement provides opportunity for significant savings over the term of the lease.”

Nick states that the trust has the opportunity to offer a “unique tourism experience”.

“Imagine experiencing the beautiful dawn chorus of our native birdlife and the opportunity to enjoy night and day tours of this spectacular sanctuary. I think this gives the trust, which has board members with significant gover-

nance experience, all the levers it needs to make the camp a sustainable financial operation for both the city and the sanctuary.” Sanctuary trust chair Chris Hawkes says they will be working with the council to establish a shared long-term vision for the campground, envisioning a sustainable and thriving space that extends the sanctuary’s mission for generations to come. Ideas include integrating recreational activities and ecological conservation at the reserve, as well as additional educational programs aimed at deepening visitors’ understanding of the local ecosystem. “The campground offers a great conduit to working closer to the Sanctuary’s key stakeholders like the Nelson City Council. It will also generate another activity for the Sanctuary to engage with more of the community,” Chris says.

Council’s group manager community services Andrew White says long term occupants at the campground have been considered as part of the change in management.

“Long term occupants will be able to stay in the campground and the trust will be working closely with campground users and long-term occupants.”

Nelson SkinDoctors

Did you know the cooler months are a great time to get a skin check?

As the heat of summer dies down, the days get shorter and the sun less intense making perfect conditions for treating skin conditions such as sun damage (actinic keratosis).

The team at Nelson Skin Doctors have expert skills in dermoscopy which enables the early detection of skin cancers. We also offer a range of treatment options including liquid nitrogen, topical treatment, and minor surgery.

Autumn and Winter are a great time to have these treatments as many of them require some extra care whilst healing, including keeping out of the sun. For example, treatments such as liquid nitrogen (freezing) and chemotherapy creams (like

Efudix) are effective for treating sun damaged skin and some superficial skin cancers but it is important to avoid sun exposure while using these therapies.

Minor surgery for skin cancers can require avoiding strenuous activity whilst recouperating - perfect for when wetter weather is limiting outdoors activity. There are lots of options when it comes to looking after your skin, both preventing and treating sun damage and skin cancers, and we’re here to help guide you. If you have noticed something new or changing on your skin over the summer period, now is the perfect time to book in and get it seen to.

Call, email or send a booking request via our website to get connected with our team.

Arwen Mohr

Katie Maver

Brook Waimārama Sanctuary Trust Chair Chris Hawkes, left, with Nelson Mayor Nick Smith and Brook Sanctuary Chief Executive Ru Collin, after signing the agreements for the Brook Valley Holiday Park. Photo: Supplied/NCC.

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Sounding off for International Firefighters Day

Marking International Firefighters Day (IFFD), Whakanuia Ngā Kaipatuahi, on May 4, we reflect on the bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication of those who risk their lives daily to protect communities from the devastating effects of fires. While this day serves as a global acknowledgment of the courage exhibited by firefighters worldwide, it also provides a poignant opportunity to shine a light on our local heroes who tirelessly safeguard our neighbourhoods, often at great personal risk.

Founder of IFFD, JJ Edmondson - a volunteer Lieutenant and firefighter in Australia - selected May 4 as International Firefighters’ Day as it is linked to the feast day of St Florian (the patron saint of all firefighters).

Red and blue ribbons are worn to mark the IFFD occasion. These colours are symbolic of the main elements firefighters work with – red for fire and blue for water. These colours also are internationally-recognised as representing emergency service.

One of the key objectives of IFFD in New Zealand is to raise awareness about fire safety and prevention and serves as a platform to honour the memory of firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty. An internationally recognised ‘Sound off’ is made at lunchtime on the first Sunday of May when fire sirens sound for 30 seconds followed by a minute’s silence in memory of, and respect for, all firefighters who have been lost.

Across New Zealand there are around 1,800 career firefighters and nearly 12,000 volunteers in Aotearoa across more than 650 fire stations. Volunteers currently make up 85% of FENZ personnel and provide essential coverage outside of the major cities. These heroes are critical to our emergency response networks, give up their own time and dedicate it to training and development, before going out and supporting their communities. Over the years firefighting has become about more than just protecting life and property from fire. The brigades also respond to medical calls, motor vehicle crashes, hazardous substances, technical rescues and severe weather natural disasters. They also educate through community outreach programmes, education and fire safety messag-

ing and help communities to recover and get back on their feet after major incidents. Maintaining fitness is a crucial element of the role and one that a team of local individuals take very seriously. Training under the guidance of mentor and coach Haydn Parker, Nelson and Stoke Brigade firefighters Jamie Foskett, Lindsey Kelly, Phil Jordan and Stu MacDonald have upped their game with thanks to the generosity and support of local businesses. Waimea Scaffold have erected a training platform at the back of the Pic’s Peanut Butter factory for the team to hone their skills in preparation for this weekend's

United Fire Brigades Assocation (UFBA) National Firefighter Challenge in Wellington. The Firefighter Challenge mirrors an 'Iron Man' competition for firefighters and is renowned for its intense physical demands, earning the moniker of 'the toughest two minutes in sport'. Participants don full bunker gear and breathe through a BA set as they compete against each other and the clock in a series of challenging tasks. These include scaling a 6-storey tower while carrying a 70mm, 19kg flaked hose, hoisting a 70mm hose coil up 6 stories, utilising a 4kg shot hammer to drive a ‘kaiser force machine’ 1.5 metres, extending a charged length of 45mm hose and dragging a life-sized dummy a distance of over 30 metres.

Nelson firefighters Lindsey Kelly, Phil Jordan, Stu MacDonald and Jamie Foskett training in Stoke on the newly-erected scaffold tower provided by Waimea Scaffold. Amy Russ

The competition serves as a rigorous test of both skill and fitness, providing a realistic simulation of the physical demands encountered in actual firefighting scenarios. Setting up the training base on Findlay Place, Mike Coman says, “When Jamie popped into our office and showed me what they were training for, I was really keen to assist where we could. Once they located a suitable place to train at Pics, the team at Waimea Scaffold was more than happy to erect the tower for Jamie and his crew. It will be a great base for them to practice and work off and a good opportu-

nity for locals to see our brave firefighters in training.”

“It is just fantastic to have the support of local companies on board,” says Jamie. “It gives us the opportunity to build on our skillsets and fitness as this extends to us training for the Sky Tower Challenge in May, along with a big event we are hoping to host in February in Nelson in collaboration with the Car Museum, as well as our training for the World Championship Series, next year, in the States.” Initially inspired by Takaka firefighters Neil and Kyle Gardiner, Jamie has the utmost respect for

his fellow team members, some of whom have competed at multiple events. “Haydn is a fellow firefighter and an incredible mentor. He has earned the elite status of being a member of the International Lion’s Den fraternity as are father and son duo, Neil and Kyle. Competing at this level is addictive, it is like cross fit but on steroids! It is a great way for firefighters to push themselves and stay fit. It all helps because

the stronger we are, the better equipped we are to continue our roles within the community.”

But no matter whether you're as strong as these guys, or just keen to help out, there is a role for everyone in a fire brigade including urban or rural, operational or operational support. It is clear that all firefighters are united for the same reason, to serve and support their community.

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and vibrant melodies of Nelson Tasman with Nelson City Brass! Dating back to 1857, they are one of New Zealand's oldest brass bands. From ages 13 to 85, the band members form a diverse mosaic of talent. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, there's a place for you. Dive into the world of brass with their Youth Band, offering free instruments and lessons for aspiring musicians every Monday at their Hathaway Terrace band room.

The Nelson City Brass Youth Band is an after-school programme, led by Musical Director Nigel Weeks and supported by band members.

To experience the thrill of music, contact Sheena at secretary1@nelsonbrass.org.nz or phone Musical Director Nigel Weeks at 021 797 006.

The Found directory has about 1,300 listings, many of these are clubs or other social groups. The directory has recently been

extensively upgraded making it more userfriendly with great search functionality. If you are looking for something to do you will probably find it in Found. Any club or group can list their details in the directory, and it does not cost them anything. A curator goes through the listings to make sure that they are current and accurate. If you think you may need a bit of help to find what you are looking for, then why not come to a Wellby Talking Café. Someone will help you with your search and you can enjoy a cuppa and a chat at the same time.

Rev your engines and join the adrenaline-fuelled community of the Nelson Car Club! As the hub for motorsport enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels, from Youth members to National Rally Car Champs, vice-president Mark Kibble says they are very much a family-oriented club with a focus on club-level racing. Explore their Facebook page for snapshots of the excitement and mark your calendar with their action-packed events. By becoming a member, you will have the opportunity to be involved with motorsport, be that as a volunteer, official, or competitor, as well as talking motorsport with other motorsport devotees. Join Nelson Car Club and ignite your love for motorsport today!

Aikido is a non-aggressive and non-competitive Japanese martial art. Through partner exercises, rolls, a wide range of moves, wooden weapon work and meditation, you exercise the whole body, develop flexibility, coordination, balance, quick reactions and build confidence, determination, and a feeling of personal security. The small, friendly and internationally-affiliated club has been operating for 34 years at the historical Tahunanui Town Hall located at 63 Tahunanui Drive. Regular adult classes run every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6pm to 7:30pm, and for juniors every Wednesday and Friday from 5pm to 6pm. For more information visit aikidonelson.nz or call Callum Cockerell on 021 069 4211.

The Nelson Triathlon and Multisport Club are dedicated to bringing the thrill of triathlon, duathlon, ocean swimming, and multisport to the community. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just dipping your toes in, the club offers a welcoming environment for all abilities and caters to every level. Club members enjoy discounts to exciting events, and if you are looking to challenge yourself, take on the Rylock Windows and Doors Endurance Swim Series. Contact info@nelsontriclub.co.nz or visit their website to join the camaraderie and support of the local club today.

Marist Women start strong in search of three-peat

JACK MALCOLM

A rematch of last year’s final kicked off the Women’s Tasman Trophy in style, with Marist making a statement of intent with a big win.

They started their campaign for a third title in as many years with a convincing 50-15 performance over Kahurangi at Trafalgar Park, while Waimea Old Boys women’s team were unsuccessful in their season opener against Moutere, 38-22.

With Marist’s first five-eighth Staci Kohe bringing up her 100th premier game, there were multiple reasons to celebrate as they put on an eight tries to three win. Marist half-back Lucy Mahuka also had a strong game, being instrumental in the team’s opening two tries with good decision making to create the spark.

While Kahurangi were able to hold on to a somewhat respectable 24-5 scoreline through the first 40 minutes, it was largely one way traffic despite their passion on display.

The visitors scored first, starting the game well by repelling a Marist attack before working the ball down field for second fiveeighth Chloe Dixon to dot the ball down in the left hand cor-

ner. But that was where the early highlights stopped for Kahurangi as Marist doubled-down on their dominance, with a strong kicking game that often put their opposition on the back foot.

Strong ball carrying meant Marist often got over the advantage line and once they started to get on a roll downfield, they’re a hard team to stop.

The championship winning ex-

perience was on full display for Marist, but Kahurangi has a young squad which they will be able to grow into well. Round 2 action will see Marist stay at home as they take on Moutere.

There were multiple reasons for Staci Kohe to celebrate after she brought up her 100th premier game for Marist in their 50-15 win over the weekend. Photo: Evan Barnes/Shuttersport.

No slowing down despite big milestone

JACK MALCOLM

While there’s time to celebrate the region sending the biggest team in history to the Halberg Games this year, the work isn’t over for those behind the scenes. With ambitions to continue growing the space, offering more and more locals a chance to play, compete and create memories with their peers, it hasn’t come without a monumental effort to get them there.

After Neisha Kindley travelled to the games with her son Joel and family in 2023 alongside two other local families, she decided to become the driving force behind Able Tasman Kids, which has seen exponential growth.

With 15 attendees and their families from the region at the games this year, the afterglow of the event hasn’t quite worn off, she says.

“No one knows what the event is like until you’re there. You can’t quite fathom how much it means to have people cheering for their kid with a disability all weekend.”

The Halberg Games are a threeday national sports festival hosted in Auckland that’s open to young people aged 8-21 with a physical or visual impairment.Neisha says this year’s team is only the start of what she hopes will continue to grow into something even bigger in the years to come.

She says the event is loved almost

universally by attendees, and it shouldn’t be contained to their small group.

“I think we’ve found the start of a community, it means that together we can take action to improve inclusion and accessibility. We know it’s a gap.

“There are more families and kids that should be part of this.”

While the Halberg Games are

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still in the rearview mirror, Neisha and the dedicated group of volunteers and organizers are not slowing down.

A South Island edition of the games is held in Christchurch in October, with ambitions to bring an even bigger team with reduced barriers to entry, like travel. There are also plans to reintroduce wheelchair basketball as a

league, with a trailer to transport the equipment needed to get it rolling.

Neisha says none of what they achieved would have been possible without the community members who supported their vision. From the crowd at the Nelson Giants giving the team a standing ovation during quarter-time entertainment to the local busi-

nesses and people who donated, the support did not go unnoticed. While there are too many to thank in print, with plans for a surprise ‘thank you’ on Nelson Airport’s signage, Neisha wanted to give special mention to the Lions Foundation, who were one of the first on board and brought in about half of everything raised to make it a reality.

WiiM Audio - Affordable excellence in home phonics

Beggs Musicworks is thrilled to unveil the latest addition to its lineup of top-notch audio products: WiiM Audio. As one of the hottest and most affordable brands on the market, WiiM Audio brings innovation, performance, and style to the forefront of home audio entertainment. Specialising in network streaming audio technology, WiiM offer a range of products that redefine what’s possible at an accessible price point. With an exciting lineup of sleek and versatile devices, WiiM revolutionises the listening experience. At the heart of Beggs offerings is the WiiM amplifier, a compact yet powerful device that delivers exceptional sound quality without breaking the bank. Priced at just $199, business owner Tim Babbage says the WiiM amplifier is the perfect solution for anyone seeking high-fidelity audio on a budget. “It is the one of the hottest and most affordable brands that are currently on the market. They have an exciting range of products at really great prices. Their products perform very well and are great quality, for the price, with some really good reviews.” Beggs currently have the brand in stock along with a bit of a deal to kick things off. “To celebrate the launch of WiiM Audio at

Beggs Musicworks, we’re offering an exclusive package deal that includes the WiiM amplifier paired with a set of Klipsch RP-500M Bookshelf Speakers for only $1200. This unbeatable combination delivers immersive sound and versatility, making it the ideal replacement for a traditional soundbar.” But WiiM Audio isn’t just about affordability – it’s also about performance. With rave reviews from satisfied customers and industry experts alike, WiiM Audio products are recognised for their exceptional sound quality and innovative features. Whether you are streaming music from your favourite online service or enjoying your personal collection, WiiM Audio ensures a premium audio experience every time. What sets WiiM Audio apart is its commitment to delivering high-quality, feature-rich products that enhance your life. With innovative voice user interfaces, seamless audio streaming technology, and a wide selection of music services, WiiM Audio is dedicated to making your audio dreams a reality. Experience the difference with WiiM Audio – because great audio shouldn’t cost a fortune. Visit Beggs Musicworks today to discover the future of home audio entertainment. Business Update. Adv.

Smiles on faces is what the Halberg Games is all about, and there were a lot from locals after the region sent its biggest ever team to the event. Photo: Supplied.

Nelson Giants shine in Rapid League debut

JACK MALCOLM

In a whirlwind of fast-paced action, the NBS Nelson Giants have stormed into the spotlight of the newly-introduced Rapid League, making their mark on the court since its inception at the beginning of the season.

Despite losing their first game over the weekend, an impeccable five consecutive wins to start the season has the Giants as the frontrunners in the innovative addition to the National Basketball League (NBL).

The Rapid League is a new initiative within the Sal’s NBL framework which aims to accelerate local player development while offering burgeoning talents and coaches greater exposure and opportunities.

Unlike traditional NBL matchups, Rapid League games serve as curtain-raisers, played an hour prior to the main event.

With four-minute quarters and a unique ruleset tailored to enhance player decision-making, the league presents an intensified version of the sport.

The introduction of a new league, where starters from the Nelson Giants cannot play, has seen the likes of Nick Davidson improve rapidly. Photo: Barry Whitnall/Shuttersport.

Co-coaches Ben Sheat and Tom Gargiulo have incorporated the wider Giants’ systems with the team, yielding remarkable results on the court.

“I think the boys are really locked into our systems. We’ve been working on it since last year,” says Ben,

reflecting on the team’s stellar performance. “It’s really good for me and Tom to get experience at this level and it builds our under-experienced players and gives them experience.”

The significance of the Rapid League extends beyond mere victories for the Giants, serv-

ing as a platform for nurturing emerging talents within the squad.

With players like Nick Davidson and Hayden Jones stepping into prominent roles and thriving under the spotlight, the league has become a springboard for their growth and development.

Stoke bowl way to victory

Although the green was damp after a few days of rain prior, skies were leaden and there was coolness to the air for the BLAC Design and Build Tournament at the Māpua Bowling Club last month. The green was heavy, so a lot of jack deliveries meant short ends were the norm. Stepping up to deliver their bowls, quite a few players still ended up short in the first couple games.

Despite the weather there were some great bowls, with Stoke Bowling Club’s team taking first place on the day.

Stoke players John Hanton and Joe Trenker, under the guidance of Steve Delaney, won all four of their games, the only team to do so.

Organisers say a question was asked during the day by a spectator: “In what other sport can world champions, people in their 90s, people in their teens, both able and disabled, play each other?”

Once again the camaraderie of people enjoying themselves, playing a great sport, meant that bowls won the day.

First Place: Stoke Bowling Club –Steve Delaney, John Hanton and Joe Trenker

Second Place: Richmond Bowling Club – David Walker, Gavin Spark and Gus Cuthbertson

Third Place: Tahunanui Bowling Club – Allan Griffiths, Christine Richardson and Heather Quirk

Tuesday, 7th May, 10am - 11.30am McCashin's Brewery, 660 Main Road, Stoke

Tuesday 14th May, 10am - 11.30am Community Centre, Tapawera

Tuesday 14th May, 1.30pm - 3pm Richmond Library, 280 Queen Street, Richmond

Thursday, 16th May, 1.30pm - 3pm NMIT Café Ake Ake, Student Centre (N Block), Nelson

Tuesday, 21st May, 10am - 11.30am McCashin's Brewery, 660 Main Road, Stoke

Wednesday, 22nd Ma y, 1.30pm - 3pm Halifax Café, 28 Halifax Street, Nelson

or phone (03) 546 7681

Stoke’s Steve Delaney, John Hanton and Joe Trenker. Photo: Supplied.

Kennith Wood and Hayden Smith were two locals who came in with a chance against the country’s best darts players who were in town over the weekend as Sun City Darts hosted the fifth and sixth legs of the National Pro Tour. With $6000 on the line and championship points on offer, the competition was of the highest quality as Hayden finished in the top 32 of both days while Kennith made the consolation bracket quarterfinals on Saturday. Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Tasman Rugby’s new chief

PETER JONES

A familiar face has been chosen to lead the Tasman Rugby Union into the future.

Former TRU Operations Manager, Steve Mitchell, was today announced as the union’s new chief executive officer, starting his new role on June 10, 2024.

The current Southland Rugby Union chief executive boasts a decade of experience in provincial rugby, having served as chief executive of Southland Rugby since April 2020 and previously working with Tasman from April 2014 until February 2020.

The appointment marks a homecoming for Steve, Nelson born-and-bred and a life member of Rangers Rugby Club.

“We are thrilled to welcome Steve back to Tasman Rugby Union as our new CEO,” says Baz Henare, chairman of the Tasman Rugby Union board.

“His passion for the game, combined with his proven leadership abilities, make him

the perfect fit to lead our organisation…”

Steve will take over from interim chief executive Kahu Marfell, who will concentrate on his role as Community Rugby Manager.

The previous chief executive, Lyndon Bray, ended his employment relationship with Tasman in October last year, after being appointed in 2021.

Before deciding on Mitchell, the Tasman board considered 24 applicants from across NZ, Australia and USA.

Steve expressed his excitement about returning to the Top of the South and the opportunity to lead the organisation into its next chapter.

“It was always the intention to head back to Tasman when the time was right. I have been involved with Tasman since its inception … I was on the council of delegates on behalf of the Rangers club so have been involved in rugby in the Tasman region for 30-odd years,” Steve says. “The time in Southland has been extremely beneficial for my personal de-

velopment and I look forward to bringing those learnings to the new role in Tasman.

“[Tasman and Southland] are similar-sized unions … Southland was insolvent when I got here. They now have money in the bank which they are now investing in developing their people and their systems.

“When I came down [to Southland], I said [I would stay for] three to five years, I will set up the systems … but I

Steve Mitchell will step into the Tasman Rugby Union chief executive role in June. Photo: File.

Sports Results

Rugby:

Tasman Trophy men: Waimea Old Boys 33 - Stoke 19; Kahurangi 43 - Moutere 19; Central - Nelson postponed; Marist bye.

Tasman Trophy women: Marist 50 - Kahurangi 15; Moutere 38 - Waimea Old Boys 22.

Second division: Huia 55 - Nelson 33; Waimea Old Boys 17 - Marist 37; Wanderers 24 - Stoke 26; Riwaka 15 - Takaka 47; Tapawera 36 - Collingwood 11; Murchison bye.

Football:

Southern League: Nelson Suburbs 1Cashmere Technical 5.

am going home.

“So, four years on, the opportunity has come … and I am really, really pleased to have the opportunity to get back home and be involved with Tasman again.”

He is well aware that the rugby landscape is evolving and of the challenges that lie ahead.

“The need to support the community game is paramount … local representation for local people is a priority.”

Women’s South Island Qualifying League: Nelson Suburbs 4 - Universities of Canterbury 2.

Chatham Cup round 1: Mapua 0 - Richmond 2; FC Nelson 9 - Motueka 0. Premier men: Golden Bay Mountain Goats 1 - FC Nelson Karreni 3. Premier women: Golden Bay Maidens 3 - FC Nelson Swans 3; Motueka Angels 0 - Nelson Suburbs SPL Reserves 11; Sprig & Fern Tahuna Breakers 4 - Mapua Cougars 0.

Basketball: NBS Nelson Giants 97 - Taranaki Mountain Airs 116

12A Cargill Pl, Richmond 11am Saturday 4th May (viewing from 9am) SPECIAL: 1991 Holden

Do

Top South Media is a locally

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company with offices in Stoke, Motueka and Blenheim. We’re looking for a sales person to join our Stoke-based team selling advertising into our publications which include, but not limited to, Nelson Weekly, Waimea Weekly, Nelson Magazine and Best Life magazine.

The right candidate will be tenacious, hard working, honest and not afraid to cold call clients. Experience in sales isn’t necessary but is an advantage. If this sounds like you, we’d like to hear from you. Email andrew@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Community Notices

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY

50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: myevent@nelsonweekly.co.nz

MONDAY

NAVIGATING THE TURNING POINTS IN YOUR LIFE, Mon, 6 May, 6-9pm, Victory Centre, 2 Totara St. Discover your life’s direction. Explore how significant moments and people have influenced the path you're on today. Using psychodrama, you will gain an understanding of your life's trajectory and your aspirations. Info e: nelson@ psychodrama.org.nz or Ph: Cher 0272266408. Cost: Koha

STOKE SENIOR CITIZENS is a Friendship Club accepting all indoor bowling beginners and players. Mon & Fri 1:30-3:30pm. Annual $5 subscription and a $2 mat fee covers costs levied for the afternoon. Mats and bowls are provided by the club. Ph: 035479814 or 035473052

SENIOR 3D FLOW FITNESS WITH COACH D: Mon & Fri, 1pm. Come join in and improve your health and fitness, including strength, coordination, balance, mobility, and agility. Tāhunanui Community Hub. Ph: 021411700. $5 per session. YOGA for people who have or have had cancer. Mon Afternoons, and Tues Evenings. Reg info@ cancernelson.org.nz or Ph: 035391137.

TUESDAY

7-9.30pm, Victory Centre, 2 Totara St, Toi Toi. Come along and experience this lively method exploring personal, political and community issues. Increase your spontaneity and find new ways to respond to old situations. No acting experience required! More info Ph: Ali 027276 5992. Cost: Koha.

THURSDAY

WEEKLY PERSONAL GROWTH GROUP for Women. 23 & 30 May, 6, 13, 20 & 27 Jun, 1012.30pm. Discover ways to live your life with more authenticity and spontaneity. Develop your ability to respond effectively to old situations or new challenges. Psychodrama will be used to explore relevant themes. enrol: e: awatersong@ gmail.com or Ph: 0272765992. Led by Ali Watersong.

FRIDAY

WAITAKI OLD GIRLS' SOCIAL GROUP. Fri, 3 May, 10am, Lily’s Café, 19 Buxton Sq. Pop in for a coffee and chat. Queries Ph: 0276731145.

please come along. Ph: Yvonne 0276070050. NELSON PHILATELIC SOCIETY MEETING, Sun, 12 May, Doors Open 1.30pm - Meeting Starts 2.00pm, Stoke Baptist Church. 4-8 page display and competition. Angela Lindup - “What I am working on Now?” Mitchener Cup – Letter “R” . All Welcome. Ph: Robin 0275442518.

CALLING ALL WEST COASTERS A special West Coast themed worship service will be held on Sun, 19 May, 10am, Nelson Tasman Methodist Parish Church, 94 Neale Ave Stoke. Guest Speaker Ian Davidson ex Hokitika. If you wish to attend e: shona.mclean138gmail.com or Ph: 5464358. CELTIC PIPE BAND CEILIDH DANCE, Sat, 25 May, 7-9pm, Nayland College Hall. Immerse yourself in an evening of vibrant Traditional Scottish Dancing and Music. Indulge in the spirit of the Highlands with our Licensed Bar featuring Whiskey, while relishing a delightful Haggis & light Supper. Don your Kilt, Highland dress, Tartan Accessories. Tickets from Richmond Mall Info Desk.

NELSON DANCE ALONG, Sat, 27 May, 7.3011pm, Richmond Town Hall. Plate for Supper, Music by Warren Fenemor. All Welcome. Contact Rosalie Winter Phone (03)538-0133. $6 per person

WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ: Tues, 7 May, 1011.30am, McCashin’s, Stoke. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities and services. www. wellby.org.nz. 035467681.

HEART FOUNDATION invites interested people to a free session. Tues, 7 May, 10.30-12pm, Methodist Church, Neale Ave, Stoke. Living with Atrial Fibrillation Speaker: Cardiologist, Niall Foley. R.S.V.P. Averil West, Heart Foundation Nelson, 035457112.

TUESDAY MUSIC, Tues, 7 May, 10.30am, Committee Rm, Richmond Town Hall. Incl Bryn Terfel, Amira, & many instrumental & beautiful choral items you will love. Come join us! Ph: Christine 0212486038.

NELSON 50+ WALKING GROUP, Tues, 7 May. Barnicoat- Glider Road. Meet at 9.45am at the top of Marsden Valley. BYO lunch. Ph: Irene 0211225312.

TAI CHI QIGONG, Fri, 9.30-11am, Tāhunanui Community Hub. Tai Chi Qigong blends the gentle, flowing movements of Tai Chi with the breath control and meditation techniques of Qigong. This practice is known to improve balance, flexibility, mental clarity, and overall well-being. $5.

KICKBOXING CLASSES, Tues and Fri, 5:306:30pm, Tāhunanui Community Hub. Josh Clarke, with nearly two decades of martial arts experience, aims to create a space that promotes physical and mental health. The gym's classes are designed to be inclusive for all skill levels, helping people through the sport. $5.

SATURDAY/SUNDAY

INTRODUCTION TO TAI CHI: 3 week course. Starts, Sat, 4 May, 10-11am, Tahunanui Community Hub, Muritai St. All welcome. $5 per session. Ph: Jodie 0212595876.

GENERAL

ART EXHIBITION. During April, Nelson Golf Club Cafe, 38 Bolt Road, Tāhunanui. A varied display of acrylic paintings by Jackie Sherwood, an artist new to Nelson. Her work features scenes from the Greek Islands and local Nelson estuaries. Open to the public daily.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for our day programmes for the elderly. Serve refreshments, join in singing, games, chat or assist on vans. Ph: Maaike 032655224, e: maaikef@psusi.org.nz.

FREE FITNESS FRIDAYS – PT in the Park. Bringing communities together for fun and fitness. Free fitness with your neighbours, family, and friends in a local park near you. Become active in our local parks. e: Nicola@bfit4ever.nz for dates and park locations or look on Facebook Bfit4everNZ.

LAUGHTER YOGA, laugh for no reason, it's good for you. Tues, 7 May, 9.30am, Victory Community Centre. Bring something to lie on for the relaxation at the end. We would love for you to join us. Ph: Cath 5451207 or 0220829779. $3 koha.

MISSED DELIVERY

NOT GETTING THE NELSON WEEKLY DELIVERED? Call 5485900 Ext 4.Leave a message with your address, the date the delivery was missed & when you last received a paper or visit topsouthmedia.co.nz/delivery/

HEART FOUNDATION invites interested people to a free session, Tues, 14 May, 10.30-12pm, Age Concern, 62 Oxford St, Richmond. Aortic Stenosis. Speaker: Cardiac Nurse Specialist, Rebecca Eddington. R.S.V.P. Averil West, Heart Foundation Nelson, 035457112.

KIDS-N-KOFFEE PLAYGROUP term time. Tues, 9.45-11.45am. All Saints crèche, 30 Vanguard St. Indoor/outdoor play areas, crafts, toys, music session, fun and fellowship. Ph: Lois 0274331213.

WEDNESDAY

NAVIGATING THE TURNING POINTS IN YOUR LIFE, Wed, 6 May, 6-9pm, Victory Centre, 2 Totara St, Toi Toi. Discover your life’s direction. Explore how significant moments and people have influenced the path you're on today. Info: Cher 027 226 6408 or e: nelson@psychodrama. org.nz. Cost: Koha CAKE DECORATORS next meeting, Wed, 15 May. We are creating chocolates flowerpots and sugar paste flowers. Ph: Desiree 0276302359. POP-UP PSYCHODRAMA, Wed, 15 May,

A TASTE OF MORRIS DANCING, Sat, 4 May, 10-12pm, Tides Hotel, 66 Trafalgar St. Are you reasonably fit, feel like to doing something a bit different? Ragged Crow Morris invite you to a beginner’s workshop. www.raggedcrowmorris.org.

WAIMEA HARRIERS, Welcome all abilities for running and walking to join us for the 3rd Wallace Shield event. Sat, 4 May. Reg from 1.45pm, The Old Domain, Rabbit Island. See web for info, waimeaharriers.nz

MOTHERS DAY HIGH TEA AND FAIR, Sat, 11 May, 9-1.30pm, Whakatu Presbyterian Church, 34 Champion Rd. Included a bake table, crafts, face painting, balloon animals, games, books, plants, white elephant and free Bouncy castle.

NELSON INSTITUTE PRESENTS A World of Words: One Writer’s Journey, a talk by Mapua author David Briggs. Sun, 5 May, 2pm, Activities Room, Nelson Public Library. Cost: $3.

HIGGINS HERITAGE PARK, Sun, 5 May, 10-3pm, Pigeon Valley Rd, Wakefield.Last Traction Engine steam up before the winter maintenance shut down, jigger & honey barrell rides, model trains, sheds open. Something for everyone young & older. Ph 027 6316786.

VARIETY ENTERTAINMENT CLUB OF NELSON CONCERT. Sat, 11 May, 2pm, Stoke School Hall, Main Road Stoke. All Welcome. Ph: Wayne 0272049772 or Robyn 5473231. Admission $5.

NELSON ELECTRONIC ORGAN AND KEYBOARD CLUB, meet 1st Sat of month, 1.30pm, Stoke Baptist Church Hall. Next Meeting, Sat, 4 May. If you enjoy music as either a listener or player,

RUTHERFORD ROTARY. New members welcome. Ph: 0211475357.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT GROUPS are available in Richmond and Nelson each month for people who have ME/CFS(Chronic Fatigue Syndrome),FM(Fibromyalgia),POTS or Long COVID. Please Ph: CCI Support 0800224787 or email nelson@ccisupport.org.nz for info.

BLOOD CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meet monthly for more info Ph: Heather 0274444708.

RICHMOND INDOOR/OUTDOOR MARKET

– Every Sun, 10-2pm. Richmond A&P Showgrounds. Food & drink, local & exotic products, fresh fruit & veges, wellbeing practitioners & products, jumble sale, hairdresser, kid's play equipment, picnic tables. Dogs on leads welcome.

ARE YOU A CHRISTIAN wanting to make a difference in the life of a child? We are looking for caring Christian people who are willing to open their home to care for a child/young person. To find out more, Ph: Mika at Open Home Foundation 0274610497 mika.ito@ohf.org.nz” ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS - Is alcohol causing problems for you in your life? Want to stop drinking but can't? Maybe we can help. Support meetings every day. Ph: 0800aaworks 08002296757. MARCHING, come join a new Leisure marching team for Fun, Friendship and Fitness. Richmond. Ph: Margaret, 0272519009.

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