28 February 2024 - Nelson Weekly

Leaplings celebrate

Bus stop ‘recipe for disaster’

SARA HOLLYMAN

Concerned parents, a principal and now the local MP are calling into question the safety of a school bus stop on a busy Nelson highway, along with the Ministry of Education’s “disappointing” response.

Local parents Miriam Woon and Allison Daughtrey both have children as young as 12 who travel from Todds Valley to attend school in Nelson city.

In the morning, the bus picks them up on SH 6 heading into Nelson, a perfectly safe stop according to the pair. However, in the afternoon, the bus pulls into a stop on the opposite side of the highway, leaving students to run across the highway – a stretch of road that is in an 80kmh speed zone.

The pair say the intersection is not safe for children to cross, claiming that visibility of cars coming from the direction of the Glen is well outside Waka Kotahi’s safety guidelines. “Since the end of January, there’s been a couple of near misses where kids are stuck in the middle of the road,” Miriam says.

The pair say they believe there is a simple solution - letting the children stay on the bus, heading to the Glen, before being dropped off on the safe side of the road when the bus returns to Nelson.

SEE PAGE 2

Wednesday 28 February 2024

Rowing performance impresses

Wāhine on wheels

KATE RUSSELL

With Avril Lavigne’s ‘Sk8er Boi’ booming on the speakers, four 11-year-old skater girls from Nelson Intermediate School are learning how to ‘drop in’ on a sunny Friday morning.

“Are you trying to kill us?”

jokes Jay Remnant, who is part of a group of 15 girls at the school who are learning how to skate under the tutelage of local skating guru,

Leon Nichols.

Leon, who has been coaching young skaters at the school since the skate ramps were installed in 2020, says his goal is to “get more kids on skateboards”.

“There are skateparks all over Nelson, but no one is teaching skateboarding.”

Teacher Sarah Johns says the programme, called ‘Wāhine on Wheels’, came about after an observation survey conducted by Sport Tasman

found that fewer girls at school were using the ramps.

“We asked our young women that if they could have access to mentorship, would they give it a go?”

After receiving a positive response, the school received a grant from Sport Tasman that allowed them to buy five skateboards, five helmets, and safety gear, and to employ Leon as a skate coach.

“We then put a call out for beginner to experienced skaters,

or ‘skater-wannabees’, to be involved. Now, the spaces are full,” says Sarah. “We’ve got girls who have never skated before, but with that mentorship and someone physically there to support them … we hope to create lifelong skills and friendships. These girls have never met each other before, and now, you just watch them interact.” Sarah says Nelson Intermediate is a

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Rebecca Kainey, Amy Lowe, Leon Nichols (coach), Jay Remnant and Mika Osman get their skate on at Nelson Intermediate School.

Photo: Kate Russell.

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92 Collingwood St, Nelson Ph: 546 8670 or 0274 312 874 belinda@stallardlaw.co.nz

What are your thoughts on the Tasman District Council and Nelson City Council Speed Management Plan?

EXPERIENCE EFFICIENCY INTEGRITY

“I don’t think it would make too much of a difference, [the traffic is] already crawling at 20km.”

“If there’s no significant risk posed to the public it doesn’t make sense to reduce (speed limits).”

“I think it would be better to have those signs that tell you what your speed is and to slow down.”

“The speed limit has been reduced here in the CBD, which is great, and I think more prevention would be better rather than repression.”

Nelson North bus stop ‘recipe for disaster’

FROM PAGE 1

But the Ministry of Education (MOE) says the route ceases at the Glen, so that is not possible.

“We design our school bus routes based on the locations of the eligible students, in conjunction with our route design principles. One of the key principles is that buses generally only travel as far as the fourth furthest eligible student on any given road,” says MOE group manager school transport, James Meffan.

James says the bus stop has recently been reviewed by both the school bus provider and the Ministry to ensure that it is consistent with Waka Kotahi’s safe siting guidelines and found that it is safe to use.

“Our school bus providers are responsible for selecting suitable bus stop locations along each

school bus route. Safety is of paramount importance, so we will not operate a bus stop that cannot be shown to meet Waka Kotahi’s safe siting guidelines.”

Those guidelines state that in an 80kmh speed zone, minimum visibility of the bus when pulled over should be 200m in either direction.

The calculated distance, according to the guidelines, allows drivers to see an object (the bus, a parent’s car or a student on the road) and slow down or brake in time to avoid a collision.

Standing at the intersection of Todd Bush Rd, it’s clear that students, and therefore oncoming cars, cannot see further than roughly 100m, due to vegetation growth on land next to the highway.

“It is the caregiver’s responsibility to ensure their children get to a

bus stop safely and are supervised at the bus stop until the bus arrives, and the same in the evening,” James adds.

Nelson Intermediate School principal Di Webb says it’s not the

WHAT CAN OUR HANDYMAN DO FOR YOU?

Painting Plastering

first time the issue around safety has been raised with both the ministry and the bus company contracted to operate the route.

“We raised it last year a couple of times, but we have had the same

message and push back given to us,” Di says. “For us it’s a real safety issue for our students crossing the road there.”

Nelson MP Rachel Boyack has also stepped in, agreeing that the site is not safe.

“It’s a blind corner, 80kmh, we’ve just witnessed cars come past while the bus was stationed here, they’re supposed to drop to 20kmh, they don’t.

“I think it’s just a recipe for disaster, which is concerning when there’s such a simple solution.

“Even if [the children] do make a good choice, they can’t actually see well enough to know if there’s going to be a car coming, there’s no median barrier in the middle and there’s nowhere for them to stop in the middle and wait, so there’s just so much risk.”

The four women will push the ministry for change.

Alex Lang Appleby

Zandri Spies Atawhai

Elenor Aleksich Atawhai

Loan Heran Atawhai

Belinda Clark REGISTERED LEGAL EXECUTIVE (DipLExSt)

Rachel Boyack, Allison Daughtrey and Miriam Woon at the intersection of SH6 and Todds Valley. Photo: Sara Hollyman.

Airport’s assessment of runway extension effects inadequate

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

Nelson Airport has not “adequately addressed” the economic costs and benefits of its proposed runway extension. The determination was made by an independent resource management consultant working for a company contracted by Nelson City Council to process the airport’s private plan change application. The consultant states that it is the “applicant’s duty” to at least identify all relevant effects of their proposal, even if minor, because doing otherwise would place a “greater burden” on the relevant stakeholders to show what effects the proposal could have on their own circumstances.

Within that context, and having evaluated other economic assessments, the consultant considers that the “costs and benefits of the proposal have not been adequately addressed” by Nelson Airport.

Some of the unaddressed effects include the costs to the Nelson Golf Club from losing land to the proposed airport zone, the indirect costs to the region from losing an 18-hole championship golf course, and the costs of prohibiting

new or unlawful accommodation activities for the Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park within the proposed air noise boundary.

The holiday park’s board agreed, with chief executive David Pattinson saying the park had gone to “considerable expense to fill the gaps of information.”

We’ve

been transparent about our intentions

Simon Barr, Nelson Airport

“Had [Nelson Airport] adopted best practice and provided accurate and comprehensive reports at the start, these failings and deficiencies would have been identified and submitters saved a great deal of stress and cost.”

Nelson Golf Club manager

Tony Watkins hopes the economic effects of the proposal are addressed and would rather the airport extend its runway south, rather than north.

“That has the least impact

both socially and economically on Nelson… it’s incumbent on the airport to look at that option and try and make that option work,” he says.

“It’s important that the commissioners see the whole story and hopefully they’ll put the right recommendations together.”

Airport commercial manager Simon Barr says the airport had taken advice from a range of independent experts in considering the impacts of their proposal.

“We’ll consider the detail of that memo carefully, along with all the other evidence presented by submitters and experts involved in the planning process,” he said. “We’ve been transparent about our intentions, including signalling these to our neighbours well in advance of lodging our application with the council.”

The identified gaps in Nelson Airport’s economic assessments will be covered in a report for the hearing panel to ensure the panel has sufficient information to make its decisions.

Seven months of the eBus: Council to discuss road damage

Seven months into Nelson’s new eBus service, Nelson City Council will meet next week to discuss the reported damage the new vehicles have caused to our roading network. Kate Russell looks into what we know so far about how our streets are handling the electric buses.

When reports came in last September about Toi Toi’s Jenner Rd being “smashed up” by the eBus, just one month after the service started, questions were raised if Nelson’s roads could handle the 18-tonne blue machines. Road defects have also been reported on seven sections of Main Rd Stoke, as well as Collingwood St, Tresillian Ave, and the intersection of Princes Dr and Washington Rd. Jenner Rd has now been declared “unfit” for long-term bus usage, and the council’s roading team will complete permanent repairs in March. This will involve digging 300mm deep, removing the existing material, replacing it with a new base material, and reinstating the asphalt. The full cost for the fix is $59,000.

The service was subsequently re-routed up Toi Toi St on 12 February, however last Wednesday the eBus crashed going around a roundabout and an investigation is underway to determine whether it is safe for it to return to this stretch of road.

The damage on Collingwood St is located at the bus stop at 132 Health and has been re-

paired to the value of $3,830.

On Tresillian Ave, where the wheel turns the roading material has been pushed up resulting in a lump. This repair is slated for completion in June, with a cost yet to be determined. The corner of Washington Rd and Princes Dr has also shown some failure from the eBus and this is awaiting a full assessment before a cost and date for repairs can be set.

However, the council’s group infrastructure manager, Alec Louverdis, stresses that damage to some of these sites cannot be fully attributed to

the eBus, such as Main Rd Stoke. The council has budgeted $70,000 to repair the seven damaged areas of this road before the end of June.

“These spots cannot be directly attributed to the eBus as this road has been a bus route for a long time and is used by many other heavy vehicles,” he says. “Damage to local roads is caused over time by all types of vehicles.”

However, Alec says there are areas where they can “confidently” say the damage was caused by the eBus.

“A case in point being Jenner Rd, which failed at the

narrowest point of the road because the eBus was using the same wheel path daily. This increased the rate at which the road was being damaged.”

The money for repairs comes out of the council’s road maintenance budget, which has been increased in Nelson’s Long-Term Plan in anticipation of increased maintenance required on our roads including, but not limited by, the introduction of the eBus network.

Alec says areas of damage to our roading network were “not unexpected” when the eBus service launched. He explains that many of our roads also sustained damage in the August 2022 weather event. “Water can get in under the road surface and create air voids which are not immediately apparent. Over the coming months, the air void can begin to create a failure under the road.” The bus is being used more than ever, with an eBus record high daily boardings of 3,762 on 31 January. The highest monthly report since the August launch was in November, with 83,865 journeys.

Wāhine on wheels at Nelson Intermediate

FROM PAGE 1

“skate-positive school” and they want the local community to utilise their ramps, too.

Kids can borrow the skate-

boards at lunchtime and morning tea and practice the skills they have learned.

“I’ve been teaching for 27 years, and for most of my career, schools have had ‘no skating at school’ signs. But

you won’t see them here.”

Student Mika Osman says she was gifted a skateboard for Christmas, but “didn’t know how to use it”.

“I saw this and I thought it looked really fun.” Leon says

he hopes other schools follow in Nelson Intermediate’s footsteps. “Skateboarding is now an Olympic sport … we need to help youth feel more comfortable and less at risk at skateparks.”

Nelson City Council has budgeted $70,000 to repair seven areas on Main Rd Stoke, including this section near Lemari Ave, but they say the damage to all these sites cannot be fully attributed to the eBus. Photo: Kate Russell.

‘One tough cat’: Banditch found after eight years in the bush

KATE RUSSELL

When Ahi Waiomio’s cat Banditch went missing in the bush just outside of Murchison in 2016, she didn’t think she would see her again. But eight years later, they have been reunited, thanks to her microchip.

You may ask how a house cat ended up alone in the bushand according to Ahi, who now lives in Nelson, it is a “long story”.

“In 2016 we left the North Island, moving from Rotorua to Ōkārito,” she says.

“I remember we came off the 2pm ferry, then we pulled over and set up our tent just outside of Murchison.”

With their dog and Banditch along for the road trip, her daughter, who was 12 at the time, let the cat out of her transport box to go to the toilet.

“And, she took off,” recalls Ahi. “We stayed for two nights to look for her, with no luck. She’s not a cat who comes to her name being called. We called her and called her, and nothing.”

They soon returned to the site to stay another two nights to search for her.

“We left a cage, put notices up, left food out, and asked people if they could ring us if they saw her.”

As time passed, they began to accept that they may never see their beloved cat again. It was an upsetting experience for her daughter, Ahi says. “She had nightmares about it for years. But I told her that she was a tough cat and she would survive.

“I said, ‘I bet she has walked to the Owen River and is living her best life’.”

Fast forward to December 2023, and the Nelson SPCA received a call from a man who had found a cat on the side of the road just outside of Murchison, with his daughter. Sophie Dobson from the

SPCA says the pair found it odd the cat wasn’t near any housing and was sitting on the side of native bush.

“He returned the next day with food - and there she was, waiting in the same spot.”

They took her home for a “good feed” and a warm place to sleep and drove her to the Nelson SPCA the next day.

Sophie says Banditch, who is estimated to be around 11 or 12 years old, arrived looking “pretty rough and worse for wear”.

“She had missing bits from her ears; her coat was looking very dull, and she was underweight. You could instantly tell this cat had been living rough for a long time. She is one tough cat.”

Sophie says she couldn’t get enough to eat.

“So much so that we employed puzzle feeders for her meals so she could take her time eating small meals while her body got used to having regular food again.”

Sophie says that on finding out the cat was microchipped and registered they set about to make contact with Ahi - and the rest is history.

“They couldn’t believe their luck that after so long they finally have their cat back who was, and still is, a very loved family member - and all thanks to her microchip.”

Ahi says Banditch is slowly coming around to house life again.

“She had lost a lot of muscle in her legs and couldn’t jump up onto the bed. She looked like Scarface Claw when we saw her.

“She was very timid and spent a bit of time under the bed,” she says.

“But, we are stoked to have her back - especially my daughter, she loves that cat.”

And, although Banditch will never be able to tell her family about her adventures in the bush, Ahi likes to think there was an adventure to the Owen River along the way.

$40k for hospice tree campaign

Proper Crisps won big in the Nelson Airport Trees of Remembrance campaign, taking home both the People’s Choice and Overall Winner prizes, winning $10,000 worth of digital advertising from GO Media. The campaign was a partnership between Nelson Tasman Hospice and Nelson Airport and ran from November 30 to January 11. Local businesses sponsored and decorated trees and Nelsonians were invited to vote for their favourite.

The trees were also judged by Dame Suzie Moncrieff, founder of the World of WearableArt Awards Show.

In total, the Trees of Remembrance campaign raised $32,304.09 from Farmers Nelson & Richmond combined and $8685.70 raised in the community from Motueka, Rich-

mond, Stoke and Nelson trees, making a total of $40,900 for hospice services in the region.

Donna Ching-Tregidga, head of supporter engagement & income development for hospice says they are grateful for the ongoing support of Farmers staff and their customers in both Nelson and Richmond who took the time to donate instore and/ or buy one of the 2023 Christmas baubles.

“A huge thanks also to the community groups and volunteers who supported our community Trees of Remembrance and all those who made a donation in memory of a loved one during the busy festive period. This support enables us to continue providing free specialist palliative care service to the Nelson Tasman community.”

Banditch was reunited with her family in December after being missing for eight years. Photo: Supplied.

Blues festival to honour club founder

SARA HOLLYMAN

When seven bands take to the stage for the Blues on the Point Festival this weekend, it will be in honour of a bandmate, friend and club founder who passed away earlier this month.

Tasman Bay Blues Club founder and former president, Paul Nickless, will be remembered as a man who devoted his life to music and the blues.

Paul’s health had declined over the past couple of years, but all were hopeful he would be here to be part of the On the Point Festival – a first for the club, and an event which he was deeply involved in pulling together.

Sadly, Paul passed away two weeks ago.

Current president of the club, Warren Houston, says Paul was the driving force behind the club’s creation, a club that in now 150 members strong.

“March 2nd was going to be a big and proud day for him. We’ll be celebrating Paul’s life of music, and we’ll dedicate the festival to him. He’s left a huge hole,” Warren says.

Having first played together in a band in Auckland in 1970, Warren and Paul were “life-long buddies”.

“Paul met his wife Betsy at my 50th birthday, they had 26 years together and they were just the perfect couple.”

Betsy and Paul moved to Nelson 12 years ago and he eventually created the blues club, bringing together a wealth of talent the region.

“They were really happy here and the blues musicianship in this area is just outstanding, so two years ago I sold up in Rotorua and moved to Motueka,” Warren says.

Seven bands will take to the stage at the Honest Lawyer through Saturday afternoon for the inaugural Blues on the Point Festival.

“They’re all working bands, well-practiced, it’s a hell of a lineup to have seven blues bands out of one area,” Warren says.

Entry is by donation, but the club hopes punters will be

generous.

“It’s costing a lot to put this function on,” Warren says. “Most of the musicians are donating their time but it’s still a massive cost.”

He says the club are most grateful to the Lions Foundation, NBS and Pub Charity Ltd. who have assisted with funding.

Blues on the Point Festival is on Saturday, 2 March (postponement day Sunday, 3 March). Doors open from 12pm with music starting at 1pm and ending around 8pm. Parking is limited so take a stroll over the bridge from Stoke.

For more information see Tasman Bay Blues Club’s Facebook page.

‘Use or lose’ Stoke OnDemand bus – Nelson mayor

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

“Use it or lose it” is the message Nelson Mayor Nick Smith has for residents about the Stoke OnDemand bus service. The new and expanded eBus service has been in place for seven months and

includes the OnDemand bus, a ride-sharing service that shuttles users anywhere in Stoke between the boundaries of Saxton Field, Monaco, Marsden Valley, and Beatson Rd, and can be used to connect into the main eBus network. With at least 200 virtual stops across the suburb, eBus

OnDemand services a much wider area but has seen fewer passengers than the old Stoke Loop bus it has replaced. Nelson City Council told Local Democracy Reporting in December that the service had an average of 116 journeys a month, just over 100 journeys fewer than the old Stoke

Loop. The contract cost for the OnDemand service accounts for 50km of travel per day. Currently, it only travels an average of 10km each day.

“I’m just worried about how much the Stoke OnDemand service is costing vis-à-vis its level of use,” mayor Nick Smith

said at last week’s meeting of the Nelson Tasman’s joint transport committee. The OnDemand service will be assessed during the review of the entire eBus network in August, a year after its launch, but some measures are being undertaken to try and boost its patronage.

Tasman Bay Blues Club founder Paul Nickless will be remembered as a man who devoted his life to music and the blues at a festival on Saturday.

Photo: Supplied.

Last hand dealt for Joker Espresso

JACK MALCOLM

Getting a morning fix at Joker Espresso has filled up the cups of locals at the Botanics for over half a decade, and not just with coffee.

The community that’s been built by owner Tracy Alexander has kept her going through fires, floods and Covid 19, but now it’s finally come time to call it a day.

With her last day of trading on Friday, it’s been a whirlwind of emotions for Tracy as she winds down a business that she’s run for the last 12 years. Starting at the bottom of the church steps, Tracy moved to her current location six-and-a-

half years ago and has created a space that means so much more than just a place to get coffee for her regulars.

“It’s been lovely. I’ve become a part of the community,” she says. “I have a really lovely community and I have to thank my community. The fact I’ve kept going as a small business is thanks to them.”

And Tracy’s regulars aren’t all human, with a secret stash of treats on hand for all the dogs that bring their owners down for a walk in the park.

“I know all the dog’s and some of my customer’s names,” she jokes. And as a retired preschool teacher, her cart is plastered with children’s drawings

as part of her Fluffy Club. In exchange for a hand-drawn picture or a joker card, they get to come in and learn to make their own fluffy.

Customers have also organised catch-up mornings every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the elderly community, with one set for next week to celebrate new beginnings.

“It will be nice to meet up with some of my regulars and sit down with them to drink someone else’s coffee.”

First on the list for Tracy after she wraps up shop is a trip to Dunedin to see Pink in concert before she moves to Perth to work as a family and dog carer for the winter.

DUNE:

PART TWO:

The highly anticipated sci-fi sequel to Dune: Part One! See it on the region’s largest screen with the best sound!

Community is at the heart of the Joker Espresso, with Tracy Alexander (centre with Harry the golden retriever) refusing to take a photo without her regulars, Stephanie, Adam and Gail Carlin, Daniel List and his dog Bebob, Bronwyn Alexander, Annie Murrell and Colleen Kirby.

Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Kapa haka group takes its 50-year stance

GORDON PREECE

The power and the passion of kapa haka at the 1974 Commonwealth Games opening ceremony in Christchurch roused Nelson-based kapa haka group, Kia Ngāwari, to take its stance.

Priscilla Paul and her late husband, Joseph, were invited to form a South Island group for the international sporting event and their interest sparked to bring the cultural performance back home to Nelson and form a local kapa haka group.

Kia Ngāwari, which is currently based at Whakatū Marae, has now reached its half century.

Daughter Louisa Paul, who is the current group chair, says the group had performed at many national and regional kapa haka competitions and had even performed at the 150th anniversary of the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (The Treaty of Waitangi) in 1990.

She says the leading performance to the group’s 50-year success was the community support and its generations of performers continuing the legacy.

“We have the kapa haka team and then the old school performers

and their family, it’s like a community and so there’s a community behind Kia Ngāwari that makes it successful,” says.

“Most of the songs and everything performed are about the Ngāti Kōata whakapapa, and her people, places, taonga, and treasures, that’s the overarching theme of Kia Ngāwari.

“The national competitions are

the epitome of kapa haka excellence, it has most recently performed at the kapa haka nationals in 2017, 2019, and 2023.”

Louisa says the importance of the kapa haka group in Nelson was also about the revitalisation of te reo Māori and tikanga (traditional Māori values).

She says the group’s 50 years was marked on 24 February with a

celebratory dinner and performances at the Te Tau Ihu o Te Waka-a-Māui senior regional competition which was held at the Trafalgar Centre.

This included a performance by the Kia Ngāwari Amokura group which had up to nine of its original members.

An exhibition and further public performances to celebrate

the group’s milestone was also planned to take place later in the year.

Louisa says the group’s future plans were to continue representing the rohe (tribal territory) on the local and national stage.

“We’ve loved how we’ve performed, and we’re proud to still be representing our people,” she says.

Kia Ngāwari marked its 50 years with a celebratory dinner and performances on 24 February. Photo: Supplied.

$20k to help council engage with Pasifika community

MAX FRETHEY

Local Democracy Reporter

Nelson’s council has made a $20,000 show of goodwill towards the city’s Pasifika community.

During its last meeting of 2023, Nelson City Council agreed to consult on allocating the funds for council staff to engage with the Pasifika community on its priority projects.

Nelson Tasman Pasifika Community Trust general manager, Robert Blake, says the proposal is “really positive” and “a step in the right direction” for local Pasifika people.

“It’s quite a wide scope, so that could be help with housing, a hub, just about anything, and I know that comes with wider community benefits.”

A survey of Nelson Tasman Pasifika last year revealed that housing and health were the largest issues facing the community.

“The things that our Pacific population find hard is obviously long wait times at GP

practices… we find that the determinants of health flow on to education and everything else,” Robert says.

“We get a lot of people come into Nelson, moving in with families, and then they’ve moved here and they’re looking for housing. The rental market here is pretty tight,” he adds.

The trust currently runs successful health clinics with the help of primary healthcare providers, and is also embarking on a project that would see the trust oversee several affordable rentals to provide Pasifika a platform to prepare and save for a first home.

The council funding could allow it to engage with the trust

further on these issues, or instead be directed to support plans for a new Pasifika community hub.

“Often our population can segregate themselves, because we don’t have a one place, other than our churches, that we can all congregate in,” Robert says.

The funding isn’t earmarked only for engagement with the Nelson Tasman Pasifika Community Trust but is intended to contribute to the priorities of the city’s wider Pasifika population.

Pasifika Nelson City councillor Matty Anderson proposed the funding during the council’s last meeting of 2023.

The council already takes steps to engage with the Pasifika community, and works with the Trust regularly, but Matty highlighted that Pasifika have “quite rightly” been historically disconnected from local government processes. He hoped that this proposal would deliver a positive result and demonstrate the council’s support for local Pasifika.

Robert Blake

Berhane

Natalya,

Ngareta

Nina

Viv

Maureen

Gwenda

Colleen

Nelson leaplings at school as toddlers

GORDON PREECE

“I’ll finally be able to play games that are for ages three plus.”

Tayla Scott has a special birth date, the rarest in the country, marked every four years.

The Broadgreen Intermediate School pupil will turn 12, or possibly three, on 29 February and says while her unique birthday triggers wry remarks from her peers, she feels honoured to be a bright three-year-old who attends intermediate.

“This year they won’t be teasing me … I’ll finally be able to play games that are for ages three plus,” she laughs.

Her mother Jo says her soon-tobe three-year-old daughter will be up past 6pm for her celebrations.

“Because [the birth date] is so rare it’s a really cool thing, and I also have a cousin who was born on the 29th … he’s in his 50s this year,” she says.

Nayland Primary School student Max Harwood was born on 29 February when the milestone was marked in 2016.

The wishful pro footballer plans to celebrate his eighth birthday at Timezone with friends and will possibly be the only two-

year-old to have a go at laser tag.

His mother Amy says her leapling son’s birthday was a good excuse to go the extra mile.

“We make it a special birthday every four years when it’s his actual birthday and try and make it something a bit more to celebrate rather than just being a standard birthday because I feel like it is quite special,” she says.

“He was supposed to be born on Anzac Day, but he was eight weeks early and we joked about it earlier on in the year, what happens when people are born on the 29 February, and the fact he came out early, we now know.”

Roman dictator, Julius Caesar, is credited with the leap year origin in the year 45 Before Common Era (BCE).

The early Romans had a 355day calendar, and to keep festivals occurring around the same season each year, a 22 or 23-day month was created every second year.

Julius Caesar decided to simplify things and added days to different months to create the 365-day calendar.

Every fourth year following 28 February, one day was to be added, making every fourth year a leap year.

Tayla Scott, above, officially turns 12 on 29 February, but it will be just her third birthday. Max Harwood, right, however will celebrate his eighth birthday. Photos: Gordon

Preece.

Young seafarer to dive into TRYathlon

Go Alex! Am sure all your boat action practice will have you flying through the water.

Carol Edmonds

Go Alex!

Bev Hamilton

Days left on Nelson Tasman speed limit consultation

Just leave it alone far to many different speed signs to take in.

Patrick Pascoe

I think Nelson and Tasman roads need to be sorted out first and existing infrastructure repaired and new roads built with the traffic congestion before this is looked at,

Kyle Hedley

Fixing the roads might be a nice start.

Jessie Barber

Annual charge reduced; rates increase 15 per cent

Happy to see the NCC looking for ways to cut back the levy. This seems a fair method. The council cannot control weather events and payment for fixes etc. should be shared amongst the whole community.

Angela Fitchett

Its already a struggle for a lot of people, who is going to be able to afford this? Not me. We pay enough for rates and insurance has gone up so why do we have to pay for council’s short fall of insurance? Not paying it.

Marion Fawcett

Just have to accept it, living is expensive.

Paul Young

This is in addition to the “average” 8.2% rate rise, which means many people will be paying more than the combined levy and “average” rate rise.

Dan McGuire

Beach bus will ride again next summer

Great news, this service is fantastic.

Rebecca Lee MacFadyenTravel Manager

Launch fee hike proposal rocks the boat

A staggered increase would be best. Increased costs have to happen, but don’t make it unaffordable to take kids fishing. It’s already cheaper just to buy fish with the money you would use for fuelling boats. Don’t

take the fun out of people’s lives. Nigel Kingsbury

Nelson artist goes global

Awww that’s so awesome, Alice Snow

What’s On

Fairy Party for Children

Saturday, 2 March, 10am – 3pm

48 Wastney Terrace, Atawhai

Guided Tour Through Fair Village/ Woodlands, Story Telling Colouring, Tea Party (beverage + cupcake), Book Swap (bring a book/take a book), Bring cash for extra activities: crafts, face painting, etc. Hilly terrain, children must be supervised. Proceeds to benefit Children in Ukraine. 5$ per person cash entry.

Rotokura (Cablebay) Community Guided Snorkel Day

Sunday, 3 March, 9am – 2pm

Cable Bay

Bring the whole whānau and explore the waters of Rotokura. For ages 5 years and over with an adult. An experienced snorkel guide and all equipment will be provided. Pre-registration required. Experience the wonders of your local beach! Register at EVENTBRITE (search rotokura, cable bay)

Nelson Italian Festival

Sunday, 3 March, 10am – 4pm

9 Trafalgar Street, Nelson

Experience “La Dolce Vita” without leaving Nelson! Club Italia brings you the Nelson Italian Festival. FREE entry, but donations are welcome.

Nelson Matters

Hon Dr Nick Smith

CENTRAL CITY HOUSING PROJECT STOPPED

There are lessons to be learnt from today’s announcement from Kāinga Ora (KO) that the 175-unit State housing development on Council-owned land in the central city is not proceeding.

The housing project, approved by Council in October 2021, involved Council selling the ZUMO coffee site in Rutherford St for a five-storey building of 50 apartments and the 4 Seasons site in Achilles Ave for an eight-storey 125-unit development.

The original idea was for half the units to be social housing and the other half affordable housing, to be funded by the private sector. KO sought investors but could not find a partner. Council last year relaxed the criteria to allow the private share to be market housing but still no investor was found. The KO project team concluded last October that the project was not viable.

We need to learn from the public money wasted over the past three years on this unrealistic project. The Nelson property development community said years ago that this project was not viable. Central city land is higher priced and multistorey construction more expensive, making social and affordable housing in the central city too difficult. The project also failed because the sea level rise requirements are too rigid.

I also doubt the merits of concentrating social housing in our central city. I was shocked during my recent trip to America at retail and hospitality sectors abandoning city centres due to the concentration of disadvantaged people. The problems in Rotorua and Wellington are also a salutary lesson for Nelson.

There is no question we need more social and affordable homes. I’m very supportive of KO’s developments of 29 in Waimea Rd, nine in Main Rd Stoke, 16 in Nile St and 30 in Examiner St. Council is also strongly supporting affordable housing developments by the Nelson Tasman Housing Trust, Habitat for Humanity and iwi.

It is good to have clarity that this massive social housing project in the central city is not proceeding as Council can now get on with other opportunities for these key sites. It will also bring sharp focus to Council’s Summit next month on revitalising our city.

Workshop students turn art exhibitors

ALEXANDRA KONITZ

A local exhibition is helping artists find their style and confidence while giving them a space to display work they can be proud of.

The Refinery ArtSpace is currently hosting the exhibition ‘Transition’, which is a display of the artwork created by the students of professional artist David Ryan’s workshops.

A total of 19 artists are exhibiting their pieces, showing how their work has progressed over time, the third time David and his students have organised an exhibition of this kind.

“The idea is to show their transition to a new thing, to be able to work on their own by themselves and to become artists,” explains David.

Both the students and David are more than happy with how the exhibition is going so far.

“The opening was very big, we catered for a hundred people and we got at least 300 or more, I think I stopped counting after that. It was packed,” David says.

The main goal of the exhibition is to show the individuality of each artist.

“They are all very, very different, no one paints like me, no one paints like each other, everyone is completely different and that’s something I like to promote, for

them to try and find their own voice. So the show is to showcase that everybody is an individual. No two artists are alike.” To him, it is clear how much the

students have improved over the course of workshops and how much more self-confidence they have built up. “That’s kind of what it’s all about...

just for them to believe in themselves.

“You realise that it’s okay and I’m happy to put that up there and I’m proud of myself,” one of his long-time students, Cushla Zeewoldt, says.

David has been offering his workshops for 12 years, and some of the participants have been attending them for the same period.

The workshops have become so popular that interested individuals have to be wait-listed, and some participants even come from as far as Blenheim for the classes.

“I think the best thing is to see people who haven’t had much confidence in their work to take the work to be either framed or mounted and then to see it in the exhibition looking really professional and still not believing that they are artists, but you can see it makes a difference and it definitely does help with their self-perception and their confidence,” concludes Jo Kinross, David’s business partner.

The exhibition is on display until Saturday, 9 March, at the Refinery ArtSpace on Hardy St.

From left, artists Alison Forder, Trevor Marshall, Cushla Zeewoldt, Joss Ward and Debbie Walton-Derry say they love participating in David’s workshops. Photo: Alexandra Konitz.

Think a new outlook on life.

Retirement isn’t for retiring, it’s for new adventures.

With more freedom to pursue your hobbies and passions, you can live the active, fulfilling retirement you’ve worked hard to achieve.

Love the life you choose

YOUR HOME AND GARDEN Guide

YOUR HOME AND GARDEN Guide

Differences are in the Details

Premium solid surfaces made affordable. Your benchtop is an important feature of your home for several reasons. Balancing looks, practicality, and costs, TriStone’s solid surface is the perfect choice of material. Constructed from acrylic resin and natural minerals, TriStone is proud to say its benchtops are BPA and silica-free. A safe product for your family, in your home.

Providing homes with a healthy, stylish and hard-

wearing product has been their mission since 2008. Whether your style is classic, contemporary or traditional, you’ll find a TriStone colour to suit. With seamless joins to give you creative freedom, they can fabricate your benchtop in almost any thickness, shape or length, and create an endless range of styles. With over 20 colours and finishes to choose from, TriStone will fit any aesthetic with ease.

Further differences are in the details. Unlike other products, TriStone benchtops do not need to be resealed. For those who list hygiene at the very top of their requirements, TriStone’s NSF-certified, solid and non–porous surface affords you the knowledge that there are no traps for bacteria. You may also hold confidence that TriStone is stain-resistant and protected by a 10-year warranty.

TriStone is available through the Trends Kitchens Nelson team, located at 21 Bolt Road, Tahunanui. They are pleased to discuss any questions you might have and welcome you to pop in to check out the display benchtops in the showroom or collect samples.

If you are not able to attend in person, there is the option to request samples via their website www. tristone.co.nz. Alternatively, call and talk to the Trends Kitchens Nelson team on 03 546 5155.

YOUR HOME AND GARDEN GuideAUTUMN/WINTER

Specialising in tailor-made solar installations, the team at Rowan

Dron Electrical offer bespoke energy solutions that address the individual needs of each home. Established in 2010 dedicated owner-operator, Rowan Dron, and his team have long been a sought-after source of information and solutions and are renowned for using only the very best quality products. With this in mind, and as the end of the summer months draw near, now is a great time to think about installing solar to help reduce the rising cost of winter power bills. SEANZ accredited, the team take pride in offering solutions to your energy needs across a spectrum of products and services.

“We have helped our clients to harness the sun and reap the rewards of dramatically reduced

power bills while continuing to enjoy a cosy life, encircled by snow-capped mountains.”

The company’s dedication to solar, micro, hydro, and wind systems, makes them a significant player in the off-grid energy sector. However, it’s their commitment to quality that truly shines. “We are passionate about energy efficiency and make it our mission to keep up to date with cutting-edge technology and products. We are not tied to any one manufacturer, therefore we able to use the best gear for the right job. We know we might not be the cheapest option, but we can guarantee that our systems will outperform and outshine others in the market. With us, and combined with the renewable energy loans, you can own what is installed within as little as

four years.”

Homeowners can embrace a range of sustainable upgrades to their property, says Rowan.

“Our main focus is our ability to create bespoke solar systems for each client. No two systems are the same, as are no two homes, or their needs. The difference between what we offer, and what others in the industry do, is that each system is specifically tailormade to each homes individual needs and purpose. If we cannot offer the best solution for your energy needs, we will find it for you.”

The team comprises of fully registered and certified electricians who are also qualified solar installers, so whether you need a bathroom heater installed, or a home that is so smart it senses the sun setting and lowers the blinds while you’re still at work,

IT’S NEVER BEEN MORE AFFORDABLE TO INSTALL SOLAR PANELS AT YOUR HOME

are electricians, we can advise on ways to maximise the savings from your system.” Get in touch with the trusted professionals on 03 542 2328 or email admin@rdelectrical.co.nz for more information. SOLAR PANELS, START SAVING WITH SUNSHINE Locally owned and operated, offering residential and commercial electrical work, solar installation, smart ventilation and KNX smart control.

YOUR HOME AND GARDEN Guide

Winter Checklist

Autumn is a great time to get stuck in with preparations to get your home in the best shape and be a healthy place to be during the challenging winter months.

Mould & mildew control

Prevention is easier than treatment. Check around your house for spots that are prone to leaks, condensation or lack of airflow. This can result in built up moisture and later mould. Something as simple as cracking open windows to let air in can help. To really eliminate the problem consider investing in double-glazed windows, central heating and/or proper insulation to keep mould and mildew under control. If you find A4-sized mould in your home, contact a specialist and have it tested, as this is the general size guide for when it can negatively affect your health.

Clear gutters

Cleaning out your gutters will help to prevent water damage to your roof and potentially other parts of your house. Get the brackets that secure the gutters and spouts checked when you have them cleaned. They

can become unclipped during the course of their life and can come down in a storm, right when you need them.

Maintain fireplace/chimney

Planning on using your fireplace? Debris build-up is a fire hazard that is easy to avoid. Get a chimney cleaner to clean your chimney and check for cracks.

Check heating system

Ensure your heating system is well prepped for winter. Get a heating specialist to change the air filters, clear PVC vent pipes of any obstructions, and clean the boiler and gas systems.

Check batteries in smoke/carbon monoxide detectors

Be safe and check all smoke/ carbon monoxide detectors are working. Log burners and heating appliances increase the danger of house fires during the winter months. It’s good to have at least one smoke detector in

every room and hallway.

Prevent freezing pipes

Insulate pipes which are near windows, doors and parts of the home that are unheated and likely to go below freezing. It’s best practice to insulate all hot water pipes everywhere they run, in the interests of conserving energy.

Prepare for weather events

Have a basic survival kit ready. Power outages can happen during extreme weather events. Include the basics; bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries and first-aid.

Prune plants/ trees

Prevent trees and hedges from causing damage to your property from bad weather. Prune overgrown branches near your house or electrical wires.

Check roof

Make sure you check for any loose or missing tiles. Get a roofer to secure or replace

these to prevent leaks.

Curtains

Stop heat loss. Thermal-backed curtains can prevent heat escaping through windows and doors during the colder nights.

Inspect outdoor lighting

Check lights and motion sensors are working or install outdoor lighting in dark areas to help prevent slips on walkways and driveways on those cold, wet nights.

Plan winter garden

Plan a winter garden. Winter flowers brighten up gardens with colour, while planting fresh winter veggies provides all year

harvest, think radish, beetroot, leafy greens. Use this time to prune and clear away leaves and unwanted vegetation.

Inspect insulation

Good insulation means your heating system doesn’t have to be on overdrive all winter long and this can save you money. Check that your attic and crawl spaces are properly insulated.

Double-glazed windows

Double-glazed windows can reduce the chill from outside and therefore save you money on heating inside. It also reduces condensation on windows, which means goodbye to mildew/ mould.

Retirement living situated on the scenic edge of Richmond

At Summerset, our retirement villages are designed to make sure you get the best out of your retirement. Summerset Richmond Ranges is no exception, with a range of brand-new two and three-bedroom villas available now.*

Our villas are warm, modern, and designed with everything you could need for the perfect retirement lifestyle, all safe and secure within our gated community.

There are no worries about maintenance or upkeep as we do it all for you, and pets are also welcome. You can even go away on holiday knowing your home will be safe and secure.

To see plans and pricing, get in touch with us today or join us at our upcoming Open Day. We welcome appointments seven days a week.

Love the life you choose

Open Day

Thursday 29 February

10am - 2pm

Summerset Richmond Ranges

1 Hill Street North, Richmond

03 744 3432 | summerset.co.nz/richmond

Helping to create dream homes across the Nelson Tasman region for over a decade, the team at Total Decorating bring a professional and personal touch to each and every project. Working alongside some of the biggest names in the building industry, clients can rest assured they are in very good hands when it comes to their painting and decorating needs. Local owner operator Aaron Mallinson says, “We are a registered Master Painter and a Dulux Accredited Painter. Our clients get the whole package with Total Decorating, whether it's painting new builds or refreshing existing spaces across the Nelson Tasman region. A good portion of our projects are interior and exterior work, but we cover the whole decorating process whether it's plastering, painting or wallpapering. We will deliver an outstanding finish on your walls and leave the property spick and span, all ready

for you to move in and enjoy!” A home's interior paintwork strongly sets the tone of the house decor, says Aaron. “It only takes seconds to form a first impression, and a shoddy paint job is going to give the feeling of neglect and carelessness. While a flawless paint job from our Total Decorating team will help give your property the

wow-factor and add value to your precious home.” Working in unison with tradespeople on new builds and home renovations, the team will ensure every project stays on schedule. “We have the specialised skills and attention to detail needed to achieve a quality result in your home's interior and we will deliver an outstanding finish on

your walls and leave the property spick and span, all ready for you to move in and enjoy!” Based in Richmond, Aaron is proud of his team's ability to transform a new home build or breathe new life into an existing space. Most recently the Total Decorating team took home four category wins in the 2023 Master Painter NZ Awards, as well as nine gold awards for other entries. Backing his crew one hundred percent, Aaron is also proud to recognise the accolades his team regularly receive as individuals. “All of our team members are either in training or fully qualified - there is no in-between. We are long-standing award winners in the industry and have been category award winners every year since we have been involved with Master Painters.” For more information contact Total Decorating to discuss how they can bring out the best in your project.

Get your plumbing needs sorted with Russell’s Plumbing

Specialising in all areas of home plumbing services, Todd Russell, owner of Russell’s Plumbing, says there is nothing he cannot tackle within the home plumbing industry. Covering all internal and external plumbing requirements, whether it be a renovation job, plumbing maintenance, solar heating, pumps and locating and repairing leaks, Todd provides the best quality and honest work within the surrounding Nelson and Tasman regions. Passionate about solving challenges, Todd is a fully certified, licenced plumber who offers a friendly, experienced and affordable, flexible service. “Being self-employed, I have full autonomy over my business. With most big companies they will send a worker to jobsite, whereas it is just me, it allows a more personalised experience.” Trustworthy, reliable and a stickler for being on time, Todd takes real pride in every job and de-

Specialising in all areas of home plumbing services, Todd Russell, owner of Russell’s Plumbing, says there is nothing he cannot tackle within the home plumbing industry. Covering all internal and external plumbing requirements, whether it be a renovation job, plumbing maintenance, solar heating, pumps and locating and repairing leaks, Todd provides the best quality and honest work within the surrounding Nelson and Tasman regions. Passionate about solving challenges, Todd is a fully certified, licenced plumber who offers a friendly, experienced and affordable, flexible service. “Being self-employed, I have full autonomy over my business. With most big companies they will send a worker to jobsite, whereas it is just me, it allows a more personalised experience.” Trustworthy, reliable and a stickler for being on time, Todd takes real pride in every job and de-

tail. With a wide knowledge of the plumbing industry, Todd takes great pride in his workmanship and will find the best possible solution for your home or business. “Although plumbing can sometimes be a little messy, keeping a clean and safe work environment is a top priority, I strive to work efficiently while trying to provide the best

tail. With a wide knowledge of the plumbing industry, Todd takes great pride in his workmanship and will find the best possible solution for your home or business. “Although plumbing can sometimes be a little messy, keeping a clean and safe work environment is a top priority, I strive to work efficiently while trying to provide the best

service and prices to our clients.” Whether you need regular scheduled servicing or emergency work, Russell’s plumbing can be trusted to provide all your Plumbing needs from a leaky faucet to a complete remodel. “We can provide scheduled maintenance for any property, commercial or residential, and are always happy to give

service and prices to our clients.” Whether you need regular scheduled servicing or emergency work, Russell’s plumbing can be trusted to provide all your Plumbing needs from a leaky faucet to a complete remodel. “We can provide scheduled maintenance for any property, commercial or residential, and are always happy to give

free friendly advice and quotes!” Todd also specialises in the upgrading of hot water systems with the installation of outdoor hot water cylinders and califonts. “We can replace or repair all hot water systems such as solar, wetback or electric. With an upgraded hot water cylinder you will notice improvements, not only with the efficient hot water but the impact on the power bill. Installing outdoor hot water cylinders or califonts can be a great option for better utilising the space within your home, upgrading the entire hot water system and futureproofing your house.” Family owned and operated, no job is too big or small and Russell’s Plumbing covers a vast area of the Top of the South region. For all of your home plumbing requirements, and for prompt and friendly service, give Todd Russell a call on 028 418 4633 or email: todd@russellsplumbing.co.nz

free friendly advice and quotes!” Todd also specialises in the upgrading of hot water systems with the installation of outdoor hot water cylinders and califonts. “We can replace or repair all hot water systems such as solar, wetback or electric. With an upgraded hot water cylinder you will notice improvements, not only with the efficient hot water but the impact on the power bill. Installing outdoor hot water cylinders or califonts can be a great option for better utilising the space within your home, upgrading the entire hot water system and futureproofing your house.” Family owned and operated, no job is too big or small and Russell’s Plumbing covers a vast area of the Top of the South region. For all of your home plumbing requirements, and for prompt and friendly service, give Todd Russell a call on 028 418 4633 or email: todd@russellsplumbing.co.nz

Rai Valley A&P Show

Saturday 2nd March

The biggest little show in the district celebrates 88 years

Showcasing the region's finest offerings, organisers of the 2024 REM Ltd Rai Valley A&P Show eagerly look forward to a classic community day out on March 2.

Established in 1933 the show is now in its 88th year, and along with the traditional elements of entertainment and competitions, secretary and treasurer Libby Archer says there are a few exciting additions this year.

“The Cattle Section is making a comeback, there are new classes in the vintage section, there will be Steam Punk Best Dressed, and the Best Mullet Competition – a popular fundraiser for Mental Health –will take place. People need to enter at the office before 1pm. Public judging will be from

1-3pm and winners will be expected to be on stage at 3:30pm for prize-giving. Our Giant Pumpkin Competition has become quite the talking point! There have been tonnes of jokes and laughs about the comp, about people needing a forklift to carry their produce, and the competitiveness is definitely heating up! We gave out loads of free seedlings, grown by a local, so we are expecting a lot of giant pumpkins!”

Drawing hundreds of excited attendees, there will be a range of indoor competitions, fancy dress, and more trade and food stalls than ever before for everyone to enjoy.

“Preparations are well underway for the big day and so many people have dedicated

countless hours to building an awesome show. There are Show Jumping sections, and a new Pleasure horse section in the equestrian,” says Libby. “We also have the Harcourts Really Young Farmer Contest, and our always popular Wood Chopping competition. Our famous Terrier Race is also back, which will be great fun! We have the dog obstacle course, which is new, and the pet tent is always a big attraction.”

President Justin Morrison has been involved with the show for the last couple of years and looks forward to seeing the community attend.

"There is something for everyone! Cattle, sheep, fancy dress, dogs and equestrian events. Woodchopping, vin-

tage vehicles and machinery including cars from the Blenheim model A club.

It is a traditional A&P show, with all the amusement rides, but if you haven't been before you need to check out the famous Rai Challenge, it's a real crowd favourite"

The Rai Challenge has been an integral part of the Rai Valley A&P show for nearly twenty years. A fun event where men, women and children of all ages compete in their relevant sections to navigate an obstacle course while carrying a pig – or a possum for the kids.

Tickets will be available at the gate and the Grand Parade kicks off at 12:30 when all place winners are expected to be in attendance.

Putting hearing loss in the spotlight, the goal for this year's World Hearing Day on March 3 is to help make hearing care available for all. According to research by the New Zealand Hearing Industry Association one in six Kiwis experience hearing loss, while a report by the World Health Organisation (WHO) back in 2021 says this number is expected to rise to one in four. They say that, globally, over 80% of ear and hearing care needs remain unmet.

The international World Hearing Day campaign will focus on overcoming the challenges posed by societal misperceptions and stigmatizing mindsets through awareness-raising and sharing information.

Through 22 branches across the country, Hearing New Zealand works to improve the lives of over 880,000 people in Aotearoa living with some form of hearing loss. Offering numerous services in the community, the team are also advocates for the deaf and hearing-impaired, promoting inclusivity and accessibility.

Bringing hearing awareness to the forefront, a spokesperson for the organisation says they will be

flying the banner high for World Hearing Day.

“This year there will be no silent breakfast. No silent leadership challenge. This year we will make some noise. This year we will be heard. This year we will be seen. Hearing is the least accessible of all the disabilities. This year we will shout the need to accessibility for all!”

Do you have discomfort and/or a blocked feeling in your ears, or are they itchy or crackley?

Make

The daily struggle of living with a hearing loss can cause many mental, social and emotional effects including depression, isolation and cognitive decline. Among adults, conductive hearing loss and sensory hearing loss are the two primary types of hearing loss existing. Conductive hearing loss is where obstacles can hinder sound trans-

mission through the ear, whereas sensory hearing loss is when the sensory cells in the inner ear may be malformed or damaged. It is important to be aware of signs indicating potential hearing loss which include perceiving others as mumbling, struggling to hear during phone conversations, decreased tolerance to surrounding noise, experiencing tinnitus,

finding social situations challenging, or noticing discrepancies in hearing ability between ears.

Local audiometrist and ear technician Lisa Simons, owner of Clear My Ears, says having your ears cleaned regularly helps to prevent complications later down the line. “A good indication that you may need ear wax removed is a decline in your hearing, itchy ear canals, a feeling of fullness or a muffled feeling, or whistling or feedback from your hearing aids. Impacted earwax can cause a complete or partial blockage of the ear canal.

Microsuction is one of the better practices to help remove excessive earwax. Usually our ears will clean themselves, but if people try to clean their ears with cotton buds, fingernails, or other objects, it can actually push the wax further into the ear where it can build-up and become impacted. Ear plugs or hearing aids can also push wax in, narrow or hairy ears and natural ageing are also causes of wax buildup.”

Join in the World Hearing Day cause by booking in a free hearing test with a local provider or find out more information by visiting www.hearing.org.nz

Rowing performance impresses New Zealand coaches

JACK MALCOLM

Nelson rowers returned from the 2024 New Zealand Rowing Championships with a small but impressive haul of medals.

With only 13 local athletes attending the event, head coach Tim Babbage says he was happy with how the team performed.

“I always have very high expectations and it was probably one medal below what I expected.

“But, it was a reasonably good haul and we’re pretty happy.”

Topping the accolades was Olly Stephens, who won the men’s senior single sculls and caught the eye of New Zealand selectors.

Tim says he received multiple messages complimenting Olly on his performance from New

Zealand coaches as he proved himself to be one of the fastest club rowers in the country, having come back from his job as a policeman in the UK to try and have a crack at making the national team.

“He’s a really good athlete and a very good technical rower.

“The only guys who are faster than him are the ones off to the Olympics, and he only needed to be a couple of lengths faster (to be at that level himself).”

Olly was also part of the mixed senior eight team that won the 500-metre exhibition event, which Tim says showed how well the team works together despite it not being an official race.

“In the singles, you can be a rockstar because it’s only you. . . but one of the things about rowing is it’s all about the team.

“It’s the ultimate team sport. You can’t tow someone down the tracks at a national level. “They won by a length, which is massive over 500 metres in an eight. That was really cool and they enjoyed it. It’s pretty much like a 400m (running) race, pure grunt.”

With the small squad travelling to the event, the women’s club coxed eight who won silver were a composite team with Wairau Rowing Club, while the bronze medal novice coxed eight were a composite crew with Tauranga Rowing Club.

The women’s club coxless four, who won bronze, were made up of all local rowers who will also be going to the New Zealand Secondary School Championships Maadi Cup with only a three week turnaround.

country to try and make the national team. Photo: Supplied.

Swimmers scramble for points in swim 15 of series

PETER GIBBS

Terry Bone gave it everything he had to stay in the series competition in race 15 of the Rylock Sea Swim Series, swum over a 1200m course from the Nelson Yacht Club on Thursday.

At the finish line he was one second behind series leader Hayden

Squance, who is now guaranteed to be at least equal winner in three weeks time.

Terry can match that, but only if he can dominate for the next three weeks. One more win will make Hayden the undisputed champion for the third consecutive year.

On an incoming tide, swimmers

headed south into the current for 250m before a right turn out into the harbour and a 400m slog across to the Haulashore Island jetty.

Terry took the lead, while Hayden saved himself from sighting into the setting sun by sticking on Terry’s heels.

From there it was a head-to-

head battle back to the yacht club, with Hayden just inching into the lead with about 300m to go and clinging to the most slender of leads at the end. The chasers couldn’t stay with the pace, Ben Marshall and Hamish Neill finishing nearly a minute back.

Lilly Claridge had no such trouble. Last year’s top woman has a firm grip on the standings this year too. She finished nearly a minute ahead of 13-year-old Nia Linyard, with Christina Harris and Keshia Linyard next to reach the shore. There are some interesting battles remaining in the overall standings

with three races to go.

Hamish Neill sits in third place, just ahead of Ben Marshall, but Ben has better results in recent races and could pull ahead in the best-of-12 series, as he drops some inferior results from earlier in the season.

In the overall women’s competition, Lilly and Keshia are secure at the top, but Christina and Nia are locked on equal points in third place in a battle that could go either way.

In age group competition, both Hamish and Christina are unbeatable in their respective 60-69 age groups.

Olly Stephens’ (centre) gold medal in the men’s senior single sculls caught the attention of New Zealand coaches as he returned to the

Hayden Squance and Terry Bone lead the pack ahead of the final races of the season. Photo: Tom Young.

Youth golf’s massive rise

JACK MALCOLM

Local youth participation in golf has skyrocketed due, in part, to some dedicated people behind the scenes.

In the past 12 months, the number of young golfers has climbed 49 per cent, with junior memberships in the region growing from 260 to 392.

Tasman Golf development officer Eve Clarke says the growth hasn’t just happened overnight, having previously relied on participation numbers from pop-up events to gauge their success.

“It takes kids a while for it to be their first sport and really enjoy it to the point they join a club. . . and for them to see it’s not this big scary thing going on the golf course.

“We’ve seen over the last year to six months that even if none turn up as members or it’s taken a long time, they’ve changed their perspective on golf and told their friends that it’s really fun and it’s

really cool.”

With the Future Girls programme growing almost threefold in the last 12 months, Eve says they also run after-school programmes and have-a-go days which the likes of the Tasman Mako have attended.

They’ve also expanded their youth competitions in the region, with “no rules” for the six and ninehole golfers who are still learning the ropes of the game.

With have-a-go days having no technical coaching and instead focusing on games, making the sport fun is a big part of their mission.

Eve says the growth has been a joint effort, with all the clubs in the region offering affordable junior membership rates and a number of locals helping to drive the change.

With Matt Grimes and Nick Loach running youth programmes at their local clubs, Tasman Golf club support manager Simon Winter is also worthy of a mention for his work to grow participation in the sport.

Pairs Night featured at Nelson Speedway

JODY SCOTT

The Cando Fishing “Pairs Night” was the feature last weekend at Milestone Homes Top of the South Speedway.

All grades paired-up, to run both blind and known pairs teams, the contact grades knew who their partners were while the non-contact grades’ pairs were kept secret until after racing. It was a quick night of racing just getting finished before the rain came down, the track back in good nick with some Brendan Higgins magic.

The Stock cars were again the entertainment grade, a couple of rollovers in the final heat making for some changes to overall results. Melissa Gifford’s roll over in the same spot as she did a few weeks ago dropping her pairing to 3rd overall with partner Zoe Hughes. Jack Rarity partnered by the debuting Toby Walker in his first stock car meeting (after moving out of Youth Ministocks) took out the Stock car competition, with Max Baker and Jason Del-Favero in 2nd place.

The Streetstocks were having a final hit out before the Nelson Knights members head to Christchurch next week. Pride was still at stake without trying to do too much damage, Steve Soper and Jordan Gillespie getting the spoils from Harry Moffat-Schwass and Ryan Musgrove, Cody McCarrison and Jason Clark in 3rd.

The Super Stocks were missing a couple of drivers, Michael Oakley and Callum Russ getting the points split over Shane Harwood and John Strickett, Ian Clayworth finishing 3rd with averages for points.

The Youth Ministocks were boosted by five new drivers, the racing split over four races with numbers bursting at the seams.

They were running blind partners, the track busy from end to end. A few incidents with the varying speeds made it hard for the faster cars to get around the newer drivers.

Aimee Burson ended her night on the back of a tow truck but did enough with partner Josh Lovell to take top prize.

Kyro Tabley and Kayla Musgrove were 2nd with Charlie Boon and Eli Gare 3rd.

The Quarter Midgets were light on numbers even with new driver Louie Marr Bridge making his debut.

Meneka Rawson picked up two wins to claim the title with partner Jack Ryan, Taylor Martin was 2nd with averages for points with Bailey Bensemann, and Louie 3rd.

The Production Saloons had an easy night on a good track, no damage and plenty of good racing, visiting drivers William Sherlock and David Allen got the victory over team Yellow/Green of Dave Leitch and Geoff Watson, with Vaughan Cornelius and Caleb Head 3rd overall.

Riley Guildford, Freddy Guildford, Nixon Wincer, and Peyton Stanger were all smiles after they finished up playing in their respective six and nine-hole competitions recently. Photo: Supplied.

3 Simon Charles

McNeill

Grant Unsworth

Mason Thelin

Karl Russ

Kipp O’Donnell

Jason Merrylees

ROUND 2 PTS HIGHLANDERS V BLUES

REBELS V FORCE

MOANA V DRUA CRUSADERS V WARATAHS

CHIEFS V BRUMBIES

HURRICANES V REDS

Craig Morice Bernie Crowe

Community Notices

MONDAY

ADVANCE CARE PLAN WORKSHOP. Mon, 4 Mar, 1-2pm, Age Concern Hall, 62 Oxford St, Richmond. Ph: 5447624 ext 5.

NELLIE KNITTERS GROUP. Every Mon, 1-3pm. Nightingale Library-Tāhunanui. Come and join our friendly group of knitters and create garments to donate to community groups. All materials provided. Donations of wool gratefully accepted. Ph: Jillian 035395546.

COMMUNITY GARDEN WORKING BEES Mon, 2.304pm. Victory Community Centre. Regular free working bees. Learn from other experienced gardeners. A dedicated team of volunteers are making the garden into a beautiful and productive space. Ph: Nadia 035468389 or e: kai@victorycommunity.org.nz.

INTRODUCTION TO ZEN BUDDHISM Beginner Instruction available Mon evenings at our Nelson Centre. Learn how to meditate the Zen way. Ph: Gwitha 0211218133 for info. Mountains and Rivers Affiliate Nelson.

HAVEN GAMES - Mon, 1.30-3.30pm. Nelson Baptist Church, 193 Bridge St. Join us for Board games, cards, puzzles, cuppa and chat. All Welcome. Koha appreciated.

TUESDAY

STAYING SAFE DRIVING WORKSHOP, a refresher course for older drivers. Wednesday 6 March, 1012.30pm, Age Concern Nelson Tasman, Ph: 5447624 ext 4.

LAUGHTER YOGA. Tues, 5 Mar, 9.30am, Victory Community Centre. Join us to laugh for no reason, it's good fun. Bring something to lie on for the relaxation at the end. Ph: Cath 5451207 or 0220829779 $3 koha.

TUESDAY MUSIC, Tues, 5 Mar, 10.30am, Richmond Town Hall Mtg Rm. Features Andre Rieu, then a variety

of recorded vocal & instrumental items you will enjoy. Bring a friend! Ph: Christine 0212486038.

WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ. Tues, 5 Mar, 10 – 11.30am, McCashin’s, Stoke. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities, and services. Ph: 035467681.

NELSON 50+ WALKING GROUP, Tues, 5 Mar, Tahuna Beach Trundle. Meet 9.45am at the back of Tahuna Library. BYO lunch. Ph: Noeline 0210591667.

CHESS: The Art of Creativity, Tues, 3.30- 4.30pm, Victory Community Centre. Master the basics & strategies at this weekly course. Suitable for primary and intermediate school players. 1st class 50% off! Reg: e: ramiroriachi@gmail.com. $12 a session or $80 a term.

SIT AND BE FIT Tues, 11-11.45am. Victory Community Centre. Enjoy exercising sitting down. Keep your heart healthy with low-impact activity while listening to some great music! A fantastic way to make friends and meet new people. COST: $4.

PILATES, Tues, 5 Mar - 9 Apr. 5.30-6.30pm. Victory Community Centre. Pilates teaches you about breathing with movement, balance, coordination, positioning of the body, spatial awareness, strength & flexibility. Try before you buy! Your first session is free! Blocks of 6 sessions through the year. COST: $50 per six-session block.

WEDNESDAY

WOMEN’S MULTICULTURAL MEAL Meet 1st Wed of the month (13 March, 10 April), 12-1pm. Victory Community Centre. A “pot-luck” group lunch for women from all cultures to share kai (food) and meet new people. Bring some food from your own culture to share with the group but please don’t worry if you’re unable to bring food, just join us! Free!

MASSAGE THERAPY, Wed, 9-12pm, Victory Community Centre. Remedial massage is used to relieve tension

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY

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

in specific muscles that have built up due to injury or stress & may be causing pain & dysfunction. Contact us to make an appointment. Times avail, 9-9.45am, 10.3011.15am. Cost: Sliding Scale - $5 - $40 HOT LUNCHTIME MEALS on Wed 12.30pm, Mon and Thurs, 5.30pm. Sit in the warmth and be served by the Loaves & Fishes team in the hall behind the church,30 Vanguard St. $3 cash or buy a prepay card, two meals for $5 or five for $10. More Info Ph: 0272977383

INDOOR BOWLS - Come and join us for social indoor bowls and a cuppa every Wed and Fri afternoon, 1.15 -4pm. Beginners welcome. Trafalgar St Hall. Ph: 035476066 or 0274979330.

PÉTANQUE IN THE CITY, an easy game to play, but hard to perfect. Suitable for young and old. Come along and meet new friends. Wed & Sun. 1.15-3.00pm. Come along and try us out. Ph: Roger or Shirley 035466562.

THURSDAY

AFRICAN DRUMMING, Thurs until – 28 Mar, Victory Community Centre. Six-week course, Learn a West African rhythm in a fun & supportive environment. Ph: 021329069 or e: kim@inrhythm.co.nz for info. AGE: 12+. $90 for 6 weeks/$20 casual rate per week.

LEGO, 29 Feb, 3.30 – 4.30pm, Victory Community Centre. Free Event, for ages 3 and over. Build a set or free play. Ph: 0211069000 for info.

GARDENING GROUP. Thurs, 9:30-11:30am. Tāhunanui Community Hub. This group invite anyone at any level of gardening experience to keep our amazing community garden healthy and thriving. A friendly group happy to share gardening tips/tricks and even offer a cup of tea. Pop in to have a stroll around the garden anytime. FREE.

OFF YOUR ROCKERS CHOIR Thurs, 2pm. Baptist Church Hall, Bridge St. Invites new singers and instru-

mentalists, 60 plus, to join our fun choir. No auditions. More info Ph: Jan 035450434.

FITNESS & FRESH AIR IN THE CITY. FREE supervised exercise sessions for seniors. Thurs, 12pm. Maitai river walkway 30 mins walk & learn to use the outdoor exercise equipment safely. Ph: Ange 021790415.

COULD YOU VOLUNTEER on a Thursday? 2.30-4pm to assist elderly people on and off our van? And take them to our day activity programme in Annesbrook Drive. Please Ph: Maaike 032655224 or e: maaikef@ psusi.org.nz

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING The Nelson Club dance. Thurs, 7.30pm. Haven Hall, 34 Collingwood St, Nelson. New dancers welcome, no partner needed. More info: Ph: Kelly 0211739642 or nelson@dancescottish.org.nz

FRIDAY

WAITAKI OLD GIRLS Social Group Nelson. Pop in for coffee and a chat, Fri, 1 Mar, 10am. Venue Victus Cafe and Bakery, 111 Bridge St, More Info: Ph:0276731145.

AMPUTEE SOCIETY Top of the South meet last Fri of the month for coffee and a chat. Honest Lawyer around 10am. Outside if sunny –inside if wet. Bring a friend or support person. Look forward to seeing you there.

SONGBIRDS LADIES CHOIR, Fri morning Rehearsals in Richmond. New female singers welcome. If you enjoy singing and can hold a tune, please give me a call. Ph: Mary 035448232 or 0211334805.

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

SUNDAY WORSHIP. You are warmly invited to attend weekly worship from 10am in the Nelson Tasman Methodist Parish Church, 94 Neale Ave Stoke. Morning tea follows the service.

HIGGINS HERITAGE PARK, Sun, 3 Mar, 10-3pm, 222

Pigeon Valley Rd Wakefield. Jigger & Honey Barrell rides, model trains & museum sheds open. A great place for a picnic. www.higginsheritagepark.co.nz.

GENERAL

MCKEE GALLERY latest exhibition. Colourful semi abstract works by Nelson artist Barry Driver. Until 16 Mar. All Welcome.

THE NELSON INSTITUTE PRESENTS: “The Perils of Plumbism” (lead poisoning), a talk by Dr Gareth Parry. Sun, 3 March, 2pm, Nelson Library. Cost: $3.

NELSON HINEMOA CROQUET CLUB Saltwater Lane (off Halifax St, beside squash & tennis courts). Give Croquet a Go: Friendly supportive club, for competition or just fun. Coaching and equipment available. Individuals or groups catered for. Ph: Nettie 035488432 / 0276828168 E nettiebarrow@gmail.com

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS to help support Nelson Hospital. Social opportunity for people to donate their time to a 3-4 hr shift during the week in a variety of roles. You’ll be supporting patients, visitors, whānau and staff while receiving sense of purpose, enjoyment and belonging to a group. Visit www.nmdhb.govt.nz and search ‘volunteering with us’.

U3A – Interest groups and social activities for the over55s. From quiz mornings to walking groups, digital photography to wine appreciation. Find like-minded inquisitive people who share your interests. www. u3anelson.org.nz

THE NEW ZEALAND RED CROSS supports families of refugees as they settle into a new life in Nelson. We are looking for volunteers who would like to be part of the team and make a real difference in somebody’s life. Full training provided and time commitment is very flexible. e: migration.volunteers@redcross.org.nz or TXT John 0272235972.

Community notices are free to community groups, schools, churches, gold coin donation events and fundraising only. For classified ads and public notices please call 548 5900. Due to the popularity of this column, while every effort will be made, inclusion cannot be guaranteed for free ads.

Ezi-Mow

562.

MASSAGE

SWEDISH MASSAGE

Nelson/Stoke/Richmond

COME 2 U MASSAGE

Call Meredith 021 031 2856

PUBLIC NOTICE

A message for Ron Robinson. Could you please get in contact with Nicole Rhind. She has lost all your contacts. In Australia. Thank you. Ring on this number 04 2416 2018 or email rhindn@gmail.com

SITUATIONS VACANT Advertise your situations vacant here. Ph 548 5900

Rural Water Restrictions

Nelson North – Advisory level warning We’ve had a long, hot, dry summer. These conditions are expected to continue into Autumn. It’s important to keep conserving water.

WANTED TO BUY sales@nelsonweekly.co.nz FOR RENT Advertise your rental here. Ph 548 5900 FOR SALE Advertise your items for sale here. Ph 548 5900

SITUATIONS VACANT

Stage 1 and 2

Conserve

PUBLIC NOTICE

Stage 3 and 4 Restrictions

Stage 5 and 6

Emergency:

use only

for

Join our team!

Nelson Asthma Society Board Treasurer

Do you have financial expertise, a heart for community service and are willing to contribute approximately 2-3 hours of your time per month? If so, we want YOU to join the Nelson Asthma Society as our Board Treasurer.

As the Board Treasurer, you will play a crucial role in managing our organisation’s finances, ensuring transparency, accountability, and sustainability. Your responsibilities will include budget management and financial reporting.

Requirements:

- Financial expertise and/or accounting background

- Commitment to the mission and values of the Nelson Asthma Society

- Strong communication and organisational skills

WANTED TO BUY CASH PAID FOR OLD WRISTWATCHES SCRAP GOLD & SILVER OLD COINS & JEWELLERY VINTAGE / QUALITY TOOLS MILITARY & FIREARMS ITEMS GENERAL ANTIQUES ALSO BUYING ESTATE & SHED ITEMS COLLECTION & DOWNSIZING PH TIM GLADSTONE PH T&B VINTAGE 0800 653 935 or 548 5235 Nelson Boys look shape season track result tournament school weeks’ competed far disappointingtournamentperformance thesecondwinninggreatprom- taining SupportersCup with strong againstwest Bull- with - borough.

- Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team Honorarium payment provided. Join us in our mission to support individuals (and their whanau) living with respiratory conditions to increase quality of life through information, education, community, and advocacy.

To apply or learn more about this rewarding opportunity, send a brief statement of interest to Jessica: asthma.nelson@xtra.co.nz or phone 027 546 7675.

PUBLIC NOTICE Mini Buses for Hire nelson Mini Bus Hire 0800 696 686 email: bookings@motorhomerentalsnz.co.nz

FOR HIRE

8 to 12 seaters - Later Models Clean • Tidy • Reliable • Long or short term

PUBLIC NOTICE

playing great duringare weekslead-tonationals. With national ing weekend, team weekend they At the boys compete Northland, play From team there that have another The been hard both off

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Jamal Murray

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As Zealand’s sole representaNelson will look take International 7’s tournaments hosted by England celebrate Schools Anniversary. ration Championship) know terrific opportunitytheywill regionproud. Peter difficult how the would was histeam speed fitness neededto coached Goodman ready College condsideredthe ofrugby Zealand. Photo: Symes/Shuttersport.

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NeoMulligan-Richard Nelson boys Joe Taylor Quick Quick Diggers Brad Daniel

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