Nelson Weekly - 5 June 2024

Heaving for hospice

KATE RUSSELL

It takes a community to make a hospice happen, and over May, Nelsonians put their hands up to help - with a giant ‘heave’ on Friday to get the charity over the line.

The Hands Up for Hospice campaign finished with the epic tug-of-war event, which saw 11 ‘heaves’ take place at the top of

Trafalgar St. Nelson Tasman Hospice’s head of supporter engagement and income development, Donna Ching-Tregidga, says the event was a great way to finish off what has been a “real grass-roots community campaign”.

“It was such a feel-good community event.”

See page 2

ANDREW BOARD

Stoke is set to lose its regional banking hub only a few years after the community fought to get it.

In 2019, after the departure of Westpac and Kiwibank branch-

es in the suburb, Stoke residents fought to get banking services, with support from the region’s politicians.

In 2020, Labour minister Megan Woods officially opened the Stoke Banking Hub, based at John’s Pharmacy on Putaitai St.

The non-branded hub is open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and locals can make an appointment with one of the five banks that operate out of it.

But on Friday New Zealand Banking Association announced that the Stoke hub was one of

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only two around the country that would not continue, saying a “permanent arrangement would require a disruptive refurbishment” due to the high earthquake standards banks set for its buildings.

NZBA chief executive Roger

Beaumont says, nationally, the hub trail saw no significant demand for the physical services with hub usage lower than many comparable regional branches or ATMs.

Thomas Singleton from Scott Construction leads his team to victory, at the Heave for Hospice on Friday afternoon. Photo: Jack Malcolm.

“Alzheimers Nelson Tasman, they are marvellous, and the staff are so caring.”

Heaving for hospice

Downer NZ took out the top spot, while Tasman District Council won the fundraising trophy.

Other teams included Gibbons Naylor, Scott Construction, Nelson City Council, Child Development Services at Te Whatu Ora, Richmond Glass, WSP, Rockgas, Trafalgar Painting Company, Nelmac Kūmānu, Geeves Scaffolding, Johnston Associates and Beca Ltd.

“There were also some fun ones… Tasman Mako vs Nelson Giants, Mako vs fans, and NBS vs hospice,” Donna says.

“All the businesses at the top of Trafalgar St got behind it, too, donating $1 per drink to the cause.”

Over May, there were dozens of fundraisers held throughout the region for the cause, including high teas, quizzes, bingo, fashion events, cake-making competitions - just to name a few.

As of Monday, $77,613 had been raised towards the goal of $100,000, but the final tally won’t be known until the end of the week, says Donna.

“The community has really put their hands up for us. The diversity of events just showed how everyone came together to fundraise for what we do.

“As a local charity, we have to create these campaigns, and people have really come on board.”

The hospice provides free specialist palliative care to hundreds of patients and their families every year, but a $3.5 million annual shortfall in funding means that the future of their services is not guaranteed.

Donna says that even though the campaign is drawing to a close with a couple of events to go, people can still donate to hospice year-round to support what they do.

To donate to the cause, go to www.handsupforhospice.org. nz

Who would you give a shout-out to?

“Christopher Luxon, he’s got some big decisions to make, and he has got to stick to his guns and look further than one term to get changes instilled.”

“Tom Walsh, he’s a phenomenal athlete, and he provides something for our young athletes to be inspired.”

“James Shaw, he’s done a huge amount for the environment and climate change in New Zealand in his time in Parliament.”

Stoke loses bank hub

News of the closure has been met with disappointment.

Grey Power president Sue Sara says the closure is a “shame” for the community.

“We fought so hard for this. It’s a shame we’ve lost that privacy to go and get the money without standing on the footpath with people hanging around you. For a lot of our older members, the hub was a safe space to withdraw money.”

Nelson mayor Nick Smith says he’s keen to try and find another solution.

“The closure is disappointing in that Stoke has an older popula-

tion, many struggle with digital banking services and financial independence is critical to their well-being. The issues driving the closure is the building not being good enough for the high standards set by banks and some services not being well used. I am keen to explore whether a solution can be found where at least some in person services are retained.”

Nelson MP Rachel Boyack says Greenmeadows Community Centre could be a good option for the hub. “I am very disappointed [about the closure] and expressed it to the banking association. I’ve also asked if other options could be looked

at. I appreciate there are some challenges at that particular site.

But I’m keen to work with GreyPower, the mayor and banking association about other options. She says the banks need to do the right thing for the community.

“It’s a really, really important service that gives people their independence. I do think that more needs to be done. This is not a profitably impact for their organisations, these banks make billions of dollars of profit, so having some small services that aren’t profitable but have a very big impact on a vulnerable community that it serves, should be something that they do.”

Nelsonians Emilee Benjamin, left, and Jordan Elvy were immersed in literature at the Founders Annual Book Fair on Sunday. The event, which has been held for more than four decades, fundraises for capital projects at Founders Heritage Park and enables books that would otherwise go to landfill to be enjoyed by bookworms. Co-ordinator Susan Johnson says the first two days of the nine-day bonanza had sketched “very happy” crowds. Photo: Gordon Preece.

Moira Thomson Stoke

Jo van Rensburg The Wood

Chris Cameron Stepneyville

Chris van Rensburg The Wood

FROM PAGE 1

FROM PAGE 1

Legal eagle’s career parked with fine ending

TRACY NEAL Open Justice Reporter

A senior lawyer has ended a long-running career with a win in court over his own parking tickets.

Nelson City Council has failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that Tony Stallard was wrong after he twice failed to pay for parking in a city carpark when the meter nearest him wasn’t working.

Stallard, 71, walked from the Nelson District Court a free man on Friday and is now off to Africa.

He told Open Justice afterwards it was likely his final appearance in a courtroom, as it was time to do other things. His technical defence focused on challenging the council’s parking bylaw, and finer legal points around how evidence was presented in court.

The council had argued it was a simple matter of him having parked his vehicle and then refusing to pay.

The lengthy decision was delivered by Justice of the Peace David Whyte, who heard the case in February. He said the prosecution failed and that in this instance the court was unable to take judicial notice of

Tony Stallard

the council parking bylaw.

Stallard explained that was because the council had failed to provide a formal copy of the bylaw at the hearing.

On two separate days in September and October last year, Stallard drove to work, parked in Nelson’s Buxton Square carpark and when he found the parking meter nearest to where he parked wasn’t working he didn’t pay.

On each occasion, he was issued a $40 infringement fee for “failing to pay by the prescribed method of payment”. When he still hadn’t paid the council then prosecuted and Stallard, a former director of Stallard Law, represented himself in court as a “pensioner”.

The council confirmed at the hearing that the meter in question wasn’t working, but said it

was normal procedure to find one that was.

Buxton Square has a threehour time limit and parking costs $2 an hour. It’s free to park for the first hour but a car’s registration number still has to be entered into the payby-plate system.

On each occasion Stallard was issued the infringement, he had been parked near his office for about half an hour.

He told Open Justice in February that he had no issue with paying for parking or paying a fine imposed legitimately, but it was “the arrogance of the approach” that concerned him.

Stallard said there was a “huge gap” in terms of what the council was trying to prove and how it would do that.

In final submissions, Stallard argued with Whyte that no evidence had been presented to support the accuracy of how the parking system operated. He said the prosecutor could have produced information from the third party contracted to provide the system, but it was “not for me or the court to fill the gaps”.

Whyte said that formal proof of the bylaw was required, and it had been the right of the defendant to insist on this.

Roadworks ‘killing’ Victory businesses

KATE RUSSELL

A 12-week-long roading project to upgrade the Toi Toi St roundabout is “killing” Victory businesses, with some having to completely shut up shop.

Nelson City Council is making safety improvements to the St Vincent St/Toi Toi St intersection, which includes creating four new raised crossings after it was identified in the NZTA Waka Kotahi safety programme as an area with a crash rate that needs to be addressed. This has seen the closure of parts of Toi Toi St, with reduced access and parking removed from outside the shops. The roundabout is closed and one lane to turn right onto Toi Toi St remains open, which is controlled by traffic lights.

Owner of Ace of Cups on Toi Toi St, Niko Bender, says he has had to completely close his cafe while the roadworks are on because business has completely dried up.

“It was cheaper for me to close and just pay rent and power. We weren’t even getting packages delivered as the couriers didn’t want to stop,” he says.

“I had to make that call as it was going to cost me thousands of dollars a week to keep it open.

“The cafe and other businesses around here are all convenience shops and if there are no parks

they will just drive down the road to New World. I had no idea it would be this bad, we are small businesses and we are struggling.”

One of those businesses is Victory On The Spot, opposite Victory Square.

Its owner of more than 10 years, Pritesh Mandaliya, says the roadworks are “killing” his business and he has experienced a 40 to 50 per cent drop in sales since the works began on 13 May.

“Yeah, less customers, no parking. How are we supposed to survive? We have overheads to pay… rent, lease, contracts, staff to look after. It has had a massive impact, it is killing the business.”

He says that many people do not realise they are even open.

“I’ve had a couple of customers say, ‘Oh, I thought you guys were closed’. We are all suffering big time and even the residents are affected. I feel [the council] could have planned this a little better and not closed everything off at the same time.”

He says he is worried about stock going off, and the bread delivery truck is now coming every second day instead of daily.

“It is already bad enough, it is wintertime, people are not spending enough, so this is next level.”

Giuseppes Fish and Chip Shop next door is also reporting a 20 per cent loss in profit.

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“Business has gone down,” says owner Chloe Qu.

The council’s group manager infrastructure, David Light, says they are helping where they can to reduce the impact on businesses and the project is tracking for completion by mid-July.

“There’s no getting around the fact that their usual trade has been disrupted… we do empathise with business owners.”

He says their teams have been checking in with businesses and they have been using their social channels and Our Nelson to let people know businesses are open.

“Our contractors are also supporting the businesses there on their lunch and tea breaks.

“You can still get to all the shops on foot and parking is available on all the nearby side streets just a short walk away. There is space to park for a short period of time behind Giuseppes, as well.”

In the 10 years from 2012 to 2021, there were 26 crashes at the intersection, two resulting in serious injury.

The project has a total budget of $1 million, funded 51 per cent by NZTA and 49 per cent by the council.

Meanwhile, Pritesh’s message to people is that they are still open and a big “thank you” to those who have supported them.

Seeking singers

The Kids Sing event will be back in Nelson on 21 August at the NCMA and organisers are seeking entries from primary and intermediate schools from all over Nelson and Tasman. Choirs will perform their own songs and then come together for a massed choir song. A free choral workshop for teachers is also being offered on 8 June as part of this, to help them prepare their choirs. To register for the event, go to nzcf.org.nz, or email lucyraineymusic@gmail.com to enrol for the workshop.

Major resilience upgrades for airport

The first in a series of major resilience upgrades began at Nelson Airport in May with the replacement of a 60-yearold stormwater pipe that drains water from the runway. The airport’s current water, stormwater and sewerage infrastructure dates back to the 1940s and 1970s. Much of it is reaching the end of its life, and some is undersized and in poor condition. The first priority is the upgrade of the stormwater pipe that drains from the runway to the detention basin beside Trent Drive. The new stormwater pipe will be larger than the existing one, accommodating both current stormwater flows from the runway and areas associated with future development planned on Dakota St. Future work is likely to include further stormwater and detention system improvements and an upgrade to increase the resilience of the airport’s reticulated water supply. The project is expected to take about two months to complete.

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An all-in-one audio system for the streaming age, Alpha iQ takes the PSB experience to a new level by merging its legendary PSB loudspeaker design with the networked music-sharing and streaming capabilities of the BluOS platform. Using Bluetooth connectivity, the Alpha iQ supports wireless playback from smart devices and the BluOS app can be used to play music files stored on an external drive. For late-night listening the combined optical/headphone jack lets you connect a pair of headphones and for enhanced bass, there’s a subwoofer output, and the speakers now come with an optional floor stand. Available in five different colour options, the system has all the functions that you could want yet is small enough to be unobtrusive, says Beggs Musicworks owner Tim Babbage. “The Alpha iQ ’s are two compact but powerful speakers that can plug straight into a turntable, television, or optical device and can stream from any favourite platform you prefer. They are a small, simple speaker with great big sound! They look good and just sound great!” Simple, immediate and beautiful, the Alpha iQ is compatible with most mobile operating sys-

tems, while the intuitive BluOS app lets you control every aspect of the Alpha iQ’s operation, while playback can be controlled through AI voice assistants.

Touch controls are conveniently located on the top of the primary speaker for volume adjusting, pause and playback. Featuring a sleek, modern design, the speaker set retails at $2,499 - a very internationally competitive price, says Tim. But don’t listen to Tim and his experienced team, this is what the customers themselves had to say:

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“If you’re looking for a pair of compact hi-fi speakers that can do anything, look no further.” - Wired

Victory On The Spot owner Pritesh Mandaliya says the current roadworks in Victory have had a huge impact on his business. Photo: Kate Russell.

Pharmacy break-in after law change

ELISE VOLLWEILER

Motueka’s Unichem has had the dubious honour of being the country’s first pharmacy to be the victim of a pseudoephedrine-targeted break-in following the controlled medication’s reintroduction for sale last month.

John Burt, who together with his wife Tran owns Unichem Motueka Pharmacy and Greenwood Street Pharmacy, says they were woken by a phone call from Tasman Bay Security in the wee hours of Saturday 25 May. The burglar gained entry by smashing a side window next to the front door on High Street. This tripped the pharmacy’s alarm systems, which activated at 2.39am. TasBay Security was at the site three minutes later, with police and the owners all arriving by 2.50am. Security footage shows the sole burglar, dressed in a hoody, mask and gloves, crouched behind the counter to quickly load packets into a bag. They were disturbed by the security company’s approach and fled the property. TasBay Security gave chase but lost them when they ran behind the museum and into the Parklands School grounds.

John says that the robber took about 30 packets of medication, with a retail value of about $1300. They did not attempt to take anything else.

Senior Seargent Martin Tunley says that “enquiries are ongoing to identify and locate the offender”.

Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that is found in medications like Codral, Sudafed and Demazin. It is also used in the manufacture of the illegal street drug methamphetamine, also known as meth, crack, ice or P. Products containing the precursor drug were withdrawn from sale in New Zealand in 2011, due to a huge increase of pharmacy ram-raids which targeted pseudoephedrine medication.

Pseudoephedrine products were reintroduced last month under the impetus of ACT leader and associate health minister David Seymour, who has previously said that the policy change was “getting rid of red tape that doesn’t make sense and allowing sick New Zealanders greater freedom and choice to purchase effective cold and flu medicines”.

John says that he had felt “nervous trepidation” about the reintroduction of these products,

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explaining that he had looked forward to their return to sale as they were effective medications but was also worried about the increased security risk they presented.

He says that some pharmacies around the country are choosing not to stock them at all.

John’s businesses had been holding more of these products than usual, as their suppliers had all provided the medication more quickly than expected, and John says that stock levels have since been reduced to help mitigate risk. As well as a monitored alarm system, John says the medication will be locked away at night. People are also asked for photo identification when purchasing the products, to help with traceability.

“All sales of it are recorded, but I’d like to see it all going into a national database that the police can monitor,” John says. Since they bought the pharmacies almost 10 years ago, the business owners have had to deal with the occasional shop-lifting incident and a couple of broken windows from rowdy members of the public. However, John says that this is the first time they have been the victims of a break-in.

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Pharmacist John Burt says that he felt “nervous trepidation” about the reintroduction of pseudoephedrine products to pharmacy shelves. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

Men’s health advocate honoured

GORDON PREECE

“Men have always been seen as the perpetrators, not victims.”

Philip Chapman has devoted three decades championing local men’s health and in particular, polishing support for male survi vors of sexual abuse.

The Nelsonian was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours for services to health.

Philip says he was “very grate ful” for the nomination by one of the men who had benefitted from his down-to-earth support but was “saddened” that he died just weeks before he could inform him that he’d been recognised.

“John Thorby… he used to come here quite a lot, he hung out with all the streeties,” he says.

“It was a lovely gesture for him to [make the nomination], and I think it says a lot about people’s perception of people on the streets, and how we judge people not knowing their backgrounds and what they’ve been through.

“I was very pleased [to receive the honour], but I’m just so saddened that I can’t tell him that finally, John, you did it mate, you got me a medal.”

Philip says he moved to Nelson close to 50 years ago after working in film, television and theatre both in Auckland and Sydney. He became a psychiatric nurse and

went on to manage the Nelson Neighbourhood Centre for ten years, supporting children and their families in difficult times.

The St Vincent St centre was later converted to The Male Room, which focuses on counselling and other support services for men in hardship, including sexual abuse survivors and the homeless.

“Mainly I dealt with men going

through separation, crisis, or childhood trauma… it was always a perception that men were mainly perpetrators, but I’ve always worked with males as victims,” he says. “We work with women as well who are having a rough time, giving out food at lunchtimes for people, and cooking breakfast for all the guys… I’m proud that

we’ve set up this place.

“I love being around the street guys, you think you’ve got something going on in your life that’s a bit miffed, and then you listen to their stories of what they’ve been through and you tend to understand why they freak themselves senselessly.”

Philip also succeeded in securing annual funding for The Male

Room from the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) for demonstrating that men must be recognised as sexual, physical and emotional abuse victims.

He has also chaired Male Survivors Aotearoa since 2013, which seeks pathways to bring recovery to individuals affected by trauma and has promoted local men’s health with the Movember charity and the Nelson Marlborough DHB.

“I’ve copped some flak for it in the past for standing up for men, but I’m quite happy with copping a bit of flak,” he says. “Men’s health needs a higher profile because it’s way behind women in so many ways, in terms of suicide, alcohol, addictions, workplace accidents, cancers, and prison.”

Philip was also a community manager of IHC, a board member of Nelson Primary Health Organisation, a consumer board representative on the Federation of Primary Health, a Justice of the Peace, and formerly chaired Nelson and Richmond MenzSheds. The 76-year-old who had suffered from imposter syndrome and dyslexia and was expelled from school, says his men’s health career had been an “interesting journey”.

While he still thrives in working for the good of men, he says he’ll soon seek “a bit more balance” in his life.

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Philip Chapman has been recognised for his support to men in hardship. Photo: Gordon Preece.

Country’s largest flume tank opens in Nelson

SARA HOLLYMAN

The country’s largest flume tank has opened in Nelson where it will be used to test prototypes in a bid to help the sector adapt to changing ocean conditions.

Plant & Food Research funded the $1.9 million tank, which is located at its research centre in Port Nelson.

It’s 16 metres long and holds 190,000 litres of water that can be moved at horizontal speeds of up to 1.5 metres per second.

Scientists say it will enable the fishing, aquaculture and marine engineering industries to test how new innovations will cope in New Zealand’s ocean conditions.

The tank aims to bridge the gap between computer modelling and real-life ocean trials.

“There’s a really big gap between those two things,” Plant & Food Research general manager science - seafood technologies, Helen Palmer, says. “Working in the ocean is difficult and expensive. The flume tank is about enabling

us to test and refine lots of times until we’re confident.”

She says the flume tank has two main uses – the design of aquaculture systems and fishing technology.

The prototype that was on display at the official opening of the tank in May is a patented design for the end part of a trawl system,. It aims to control the conditions for the fish that have already been caught in the net, so they are able to keep swimming comfortably and don’t run out of energy.

drones, or the renewable energy sector.

She says, since the tank officially opened some have already been in touch with ideas they hadn’t yet thought of, such as freshwater applications in rivers.

“It is a big investment; NZ is a small place where we can share facilities and where we can make the best of an investment that’s been made.”

Helen hopes the tank will be used by scientists, researchers, engineers and entrepreneurs from a range of organisations and businesses, to grow the marine and seafood sector.

“It’s really for anything where someone wants to get an early indication of how something that is going to be out in the ocean is going to perform in different flows or currents.

That could be robotics, remote sensing technology,

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She says the concept, design and build of the tank was a “long process”.

“It’s not the kind of design and build where you can ring a provider and say ‘we’ll take one of those’.”

Helen says, while there has been a lot of focus on the tank, for Plant and Food it’s part of a bigger puzzle.

“This is one piece of this faciltiy, we’ve got the finfish facility, and the labs, so its really complementing everything.

“I’m really positive about Nelson’s role in developing our role in the marine industry.”

Helen Palmer

More people, more houses in census

The Nelson-Tasman population is officially 110,391 which is just over 7,000 more people than the previous census in 2018.

In the just-released 2023 census results, Tasman recorded 57,807 residents, an increase of 10.3 per cent compared with the previous census in

2018, while Nelson recorded a 3.3 per cent increase to 52,584 residents.

The increased population added more houses, with a 11 per cent increase in Tasman to 26,352 dwellings and a 6.1 per cent increase in Nelson to 22,845 dwellings, In Tasman, 90.7 per cent of

the population identified as European, while 9.9 per cent were recorded as Māori, 2.6 per cent Pacific peoples and four per cent Asian. Nelson had 84.7 per cent identifying as European, 11.9 per cent Māori, 2.8 per cent Pacific peoples and 8.6 per cent Asian.

Totara homes on track

KATE RUSSELL

With “continuous” applications for homes and a growing waitlist, Nelson Tasman Housing Trust’s near-completed development on Totara St is in hot demand.

The six, two-storey houses in Victory include two 2-bedroom homes, three 3-bedroom homes, and one 4-bedroom home.

The houses will be rented out by the trust, where tenants will pay an income-related rent which keeps them affordable for families.

Trust director Carrie Mozena says construction, which

started in late summer, is ahead of schedule. It is now due for completion by late August, with tenants moving in by September. And, they have had no shortage of applicants for the homes.

“Nelson Tasman Housing Trust receives applications for homes continuously.

Our current waitlist is over 100 and approximately half of those on our waitlist are households who require the size of homes at Totara St,” Carrie says.

The interview process for the homes began in May, she adds. “We will be interviewing 10-12 applicants, and we aim to confirm all

the new tenant families over the next two months.”

The project has a price tag of $4.3 million (including land costs). The sites once homed two older dwellings that the trust purchased from Nelson City Council in August 2022.

The trust already has 55 affordable rentals in Nelson Tasman and aims to grow that number to 120 over the next five years. Their focus is on providing long-term tenancies for people on low to modest incomes. To qualify, you must either be on the housing register or your income be under the median household income.

Skin Cancer Questions:

How do I know if I need to be checked for skin cancer?

One question that medical professionals are often asked is "do I need a full skin check?". For some people there is an easy answer: if you have ever had a skin cancer (eg. BCC, SCC or melanoma), then you should have a full skin check every year to check for new skin cancers. People who have had a skin cancer are at higher risk of developing another and it is better to catch any new skin cancers early.

For those without a personal history of skin cancer, the ones who would benefit most from a full skin check are those with a higher than average risk. This includes people with a strong family history of skin cancers (especially melanoma), lots of spots, high-risk skin types (i.e. fair complexions), a history of significant sun damage, and those who have worked predominantly outdoors for more than 10 years. There are a few tools you can use which can help determine your risk of developing melanoma and they are worth a look. The Skin Cancer College of Australasia has a tool for calculating skin cancer risk:

www.scanyourskin.org/risk-prediction-tool

The Melanoma Institute of Australia also has a

calculator for melanoma risk: www.melanomarisk.org.au/FirstMelLand (select Tasmania as a similar latitude location to us here in New Zealand).

At Nelson Skin Doctors our team of expert clinicians are able to provide full body skin examinations to check for skin cancer, or we can provide an opinion on a spot or two. We offer a range of treatment options for concerning spots including freezing with liquid nitrogen, treatment with chemotherapy creams and surgical excision of lesions in our dedicated procedure room. Please contact us so we can discuss which option will work best for you.

The links above can also be found on the news page of our website: www.nelsonskindoctors.co.nz

Bridget Wild, Dr Katie Maver and Dr Arwen Mohr

St John members honoured

GORDON PREECE

Three Nelson-based Hato Hone St John staff have been injected with Order of St John honours.

Nelson and Tasman Bays area committee member, Andrea Staufer, and St John South Island Regional Trust Board member, Cam Fraei, were appointed Officers of the Order by St John Chancellor, John Whitehead, at Christchurch’s Transitional Cardboard Cathedral in early May.

Nelson Marlborough area operations manager, Anne-Maree Harris, was made a Member of the Order at the same investiture ceremony.

Andrea received her honour for providing “significant leadership” in the St John youth programme and taking on multiple leadership roles locally, nationally and internationally.

Hato Hone St John says through Andrea’s work and community connections, the Nelson and Tasman Bays area committee could provide improved community support.

“Her ongoing commitment to St John has been invaluable, as she has been an amazing advocate who has shared her skills, knowledge and practicality throughout St John,” it has stated.

Andrea, who oversees the local St John community activities and services, including the 3 Steps for Life training programme, says her honour was “pretty cool”.

The Te Whatu Ora Nelson Marlborough public health

nurse kickstarted her St John career as a 10-year-old in its cadet programme in 1995, and has gone on to hold numerous roles in the youth programme since 2003.

The 39-year-old considers managing a team which represented New Zealand at the St John International Youth Festival and Competition in South Africa in 2020 as one of her zeniths.

“Everything that I do, it’s about giving back to the community, so I think that’s what people appreciate the most,” she explains.

“A lot of the St John volunteers and staff come from different backgrounds and have different interests, and it’s great to know that you feel part of a wider St John family when you get to work with and meet lots of new people.”

St John says Officer of the Order recipient Cam Fraei is a valued member of the South Island Regional Trust Board, on which he chairs the strategic planning group and the finance sub-committee.

“He has worked diligently to achieve the successful amalgamation of Nelson, Motueka and Golden Bay area committees into Nelson Bays area committee,” it says.

“The new area committee is providing a number of important health initiatives into the Nelson community.

“Cam gives countless hours to both area and region, has opened up communication and broken down barriers, allowing all areas of St John to benefit.”

Anne-Maree Harris supports the direction of the organisation to address the gender imbalance amongst its leaders.

“She is an active member of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, holding the women’s portfolio,” it says.

“Anne-Maree has found, and will continue to find, opportunities within the organisation to champion, influence and help drive change, and has championed pay parity, gender equality, diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace.”

Jackie Galland, the compassionate force behind Giving Aroha, is dedicated to supporting individuals in the community. For five years, Giving Aroha has been a lifeline for those living on the streets, providing food, shelter, and essential supplies to those who need them most. Jackie’s tireless efforts and unwavering dedication have made her our very own Nelson Auto Glass Specialists Local Legend this month. Giving Aroha operates on the front lines, with the help of Jackie’s amazing volunteers regularly checking on the community, providing meals, and helping them find a way forward. “We have a bond with the streeties that agencies don’t have because we’re out there and we’re reliable.” The charity addresses various needs, from getting power hooked up to finding a warm place to stay for the night. Jackie emphasises the importance of paying attention to the simple needs of people, which can make a significant difference in their lives. The charity started with Jackie responding to a social media post by Pip Grant seeking blankets and soup. What began as a small effort has grown into a vital weekly operation, serving around 50 people and more. Funding is a constant struggle for Giving Aroha, with most resources coming from personal donations and fundraising efforts. Jackie highlights the systemic failures that leave people in the community without adequate support, stating, “The system is failing, regardless of which policies are in place. Even the ‘streeties’ last port of call does not help them. All they need is a bed for the night without being harassed.” Jackie and her team often find themselves doing what agencies do not, from providing warm blankets to intervening in crisis situations. Their transparency and dedication have built trust with the community, a crucial factor in their success. “We are doing all the hard work and picking up where the agencies are lacking – all out of our own back pocket,” Jackie says.

Giving Aroha urgently needs more funding, especially for meat, pantry food, and other essentials to continue supporting people. Jackie’s love and dedication to her ‘streeties’ drive her to keep fighting for their well-being, making her an irreplaceable pillar of her community.

On behalf of the team at Nelson Auto Glass Specialists, Polly Bowden presents Local Legend Jackie Galland with a Flower Farm bouquet

Andrea Staufer was one of the three Nelson-based St John members who were honoured recently. Photo: Gordon Preece.

Brian McGurk, Cora Mackay, 8, and Nathan Capper

Jinx Flewitt and Michelle Joubert

Lucca Thompson, 3, and Matteo Thompson, 6 River, 8, and Aaron Rubin

Sue and Don Baskett

Rylan Marshall, Zack Shuttleworth and Lee Cobb

Alex McNaught, Sam Dempster and Andy Stevens

Chloe Dixon, Netani Baleisomosomo, Lusia Tafia, Matt Lowe and Maloni Kunawave

Mandy Trass, Alana Lancaster, Lucy Shefford, Melissa Keesing, Maria Wallace, Rochelle Brown, Mary Berryman, Carol Merrilees and Amy Taylor

Matt Boon and Kelly Biggs

The Titanic sinks

The death of more than 1500 people when the luxury passenger liner RMS Titanic sank on 14-15 April 1912 sent shockwaves around the world. Titanic was on its maiden voyage when it went down after colliding with an iceberg in the Atlantic Ocean. Nelson City Council was quick to respond, passing a resolution at its meeting on 19 April 1912 expressing regret and sympathy. Town Clerk GA Edmonds sent a copy of the resolution to Prime Minister Thomas MacKenzie asking him to “kindly forward it on to the proper quarter”. The PM wrote back saying he had sent it to “His Excellency the Governor for transmission to the proper quarter”.

they held a race to mark its grand opening on Friday. Principal Rob Wemyss says students need a mountainbike to ride the trail, which was built by Chris Milden. Rob wanted to thank the Nelson Marlborough District Health Board, Nelson City Council and Bike On Trust for their support in helping to get the project over the line. Photo: Jack Malcolm.

CLIFTON TERRACE MAKES TRACKS: Max Bernsdorf Solly races down Clifton Terrace School’s new mountainbike track as

Crossroads with AI

I’m not a graphic designer but I do see myself as a creative and a creator of modern art.

After reading an article recently, there were some really interesting things that stood out that I’d like to share with you. Some people refer to themselves as a “techno-dork”, which directly translates to “I’m not tech savvy” and they are thankful to have a support IT team around them. AI design seemingly has a long way to go before a “techno-dork” could push a button and get a comparable result to that of working with a professional graphic designer for a brand identity or website design. The same goes with digital and modern AI art. People like myself are blending their innate creativity with AI-assisted design. It’s about leveraging AI for what it does best – efficiency and precision – while infusing the human elements of empathy, understanding, and aesthetic foresight. It’s about understanding the heart and soul of art and articulating this through design in a way that AI cannot do on its own.

We need capable AI drivers to produce the best work. Just as we need creative individuals. So, as we stand at this crossroads, the message to graphic designers and modern artists like myself is clear: evolve, embrace AI, and elevate your skills. The future is likely a blend of human creativity and AI efficiency. In this new world, a graphic designer or digital artist becomes more vital than ever – a visionary, a strategist, and an irreplaceable part of the creative process.

There is an inevitability about the use of AI in the future, so I urge you to embrace it for the sake of art and enjoy the aesthetics that it creates that are different to previous art forms. When resin pouring on nice wooden boards became the thing, the process was fairly easy and yet we found appreciation in that art form and still enjoy it to this day. AI is no different - it’s modern art, it’s bold, eye-catching and presents a

style of its own that you too can choose to enjoy as we future on!

Nikki Van der Star

Gymnastics Nelson gets accessible upgrade

Fantastic! It was always deemed too expensive or impossible. Great news for all!

Jenna Robertson

Increasing bus fares another ‘worry’ for parents

They want people to use the service and when they do, they hit you in the pocket for the privilege… and they wonder why we use cars, pure madness.

Annette Mckenzie

Homegrown tumuaki appointed at Broadgreen

Congratulations, Megan. David Antony Turnhout

Have your say:

sara@topsouthmedia.co.nz facebook.com/nelsonweekly

Tackling social housing needs

What about renovating existing housing?

Gwen Daly Dover

There are potential sites in Golden Bay but TDC want housing expansion confined to specific areas. e.g. coastal Pohara which is more expensive. Councils need to reassess the criteria and be more flexible.

Averill Grant

Hart’s reign of fire

Well done, Murray. Great role model and inspiration to many others. Keep up the awesome work.

Grace Clark

Great result. I guess you’ll be training soon for next year!

Lorraine Bell

Great work. I always say he is like a vacuum pack of bacon, not an ounce of fat on him with tight muscles.

Beryl Sharp

Bloody legend, as they say here in Aussie. You are a machine indeed. Well done.

Christina Carruthers

Still a super star. Keep up the amazing work.

Kaye McNabb

Richard Berry

Well done, Murray (again)

You sir, are a LEGEND!

Kevin Elder

I reckon they should rename the tower after you.

Brian Shrek Ross

Nelson Matters

Hon Dr Nick Smith

BUDGET DELIVERS FLOOD PROTECTION FUNDING

I was heartened by the Budget news last week that our Council is to receive $9 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund towards $15 million of flood protection works, with the other $6 million coming from ratepayers.

The timing of this new funding is perfect as we shift our focus from the recovery work associated with the August ’22 storm to strengthening our defences against future events. It required strong advocacy to secure $12.3 million from the previous Government last July to help with the cost of fixing the damage.

This further funding from the new Government is the dividend of months of lobbying. We put the case alongside other flood-affected Councils that it is better to invest in the fence at the top of the cliff than the ambulance at the bottom.

The 60% Government share for this new flood protection work is very strong. We got 20% for the recently completed Saxton Creek project.

A total of $9 million of this new investment is to be spent on the Maitai catchment with an upgrade and realignment of 350m of the stopbank in the Hanby Park-Mill StreetClouston Terrace area, a complete rebuild of the Cleveland Terrace flood intake, 200m of new piped drainage around Queens Gardens to protect properties in eastern Bridge St including the Suter Art Gallery and a 60m floodwall adjacent to Clouston Terrace to protect Nile Street East residents.

The remaining $6 million is to be invested in flood repairs and improvements in Devenish Place, Frenchay Drive in Atawhai, Todds Valley Stream and Hillwood Stream at Seafield Terrace in the Glen.

Nelson did particularly poorly from the Provincial Growth Fund under the previous Government, receiving only 1% of the funding despite making up 5% of the provincial population. I’m determined we’ll do better from the new Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund. It is a good start that we have secured $9 million of the first tranche of $101 million or 9%.

We can never provide 100% protection from storms, particularly with the increased intensity and frequency expected from climate change, but this investment will reduce the flood risk for hundreds of Nelson properties.

Nick Smith

MAYOR OF NELSON

Mastering the royal game

ELISE VOLLWEILER

For Rami Riachi’s students, toppling his king is the ultimate victory.

“The big prize is if they can beat me,” he laughs – and occasionally, he lets them.

Rami has been a professional chess player since he was 11 years old, and he is eager to pass on the skills – but not the anxiety – to as many other chess enthusiasts as he can.

The Argentinian-born man has been in New Zealand for seven years, the last four of which he has spent in Nelson where he quickly became involved in the local chess scene.

A chess coach through his business Chess in Nelson, Rami says that he loves imparting the skills of patience, creativity, sportsmanship and lateral thinking through his teachings.

“It’s not just about the game, but how they can replicate that into the world,” he says. He teaches both children and adults and reckons that the

thought process is very different with each.

Adults, with their longer concentration spans, can play a single game that lasts for several hours, whereas children want the more instant gratification of zipping through the game and playing over and over, he says.

He also enjoys working with children who are on the spectrum, admiring their unique thought processes.

“They can be really, really, really creative.”

Rami is the president of the Nelson Chess Club and the arbitrator of the upcoming Cole Cup, a chess competition that is open to Nelson-Tasman residents.

Rami says that the chess club is 160 years old this September, and the Cole Cup, named after Nelson’s Cole brothers who were pioneers in the local chess scene, is in its 60th year.

Rami is determined that the tournament – and the sport as a whole – be accessible for everyone, “from six years old to 60 years old”.

He has sourced chess sets for vision-impaired people, with tactile pieces that are fixed in place to the board so that they can be explored by touch.

The tournament is split into three age-group categories – junior for primary students, youth for intermediate-aged kids, and open for everyone else. Due to his increased involvement in schools around the district, Rami is expecting the numbers to grow

from 40 to around 60 this year.

The games are played using a Swiss six-round system, whereby each player has a maximum of 20 minutes per game, to use however they wish. Most games will finish with the traditional checkmate, but players must also be careful not run out of time. Points are awarded and added depending on the outcome of each game.

Prizes include medals, online chess subscriptions, certificates,

and a chess book, as well as an engraved acknowledgement on the esteemed Cole Cup itself. The tournament is scheduled for Saturday 8 June, 8:30am-3:00pm at the Victory Community Centre, 2 Totara St, Nelson. Players can register online. Early-bird fees are $20 per adult and $15 per student, with a $5 per person increase if registering on the day. For further information, contact ramiroriachi@gmail.com

Rami Riachi reckons that there are a lot of life skills that can be learned through the game of chess.

Photo: Kate Russell.

Enjoy more time for quality time

Summerset serviced apartments. With help always on hand, Summerset serviced apartments provide the perfect balance of independent living for loved ones, and peace of mind for you. We can even take care of the cleaning, washing, medication and meals, so you can focus on the important stuff, like making lasting memories together. Think this sounds like you or someone you love?

Love the life you choose.

From taking care of meals and chores, to offering a little extra support, a serviced apartment is all about stress-free living, giving you back your precious time.

At Summerset in the Sun, our serviced apartments are located right in the heart of the village within a safe and secure gated community.

They offer light and spacious open plan living, a kitchenette and separate double bedroom with a large ensuite. And if needed, extra support is available on hand.

Open Weekend

Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June, 10am - 2pm Summerset in the Sun 16 Sargeson Street, Stoke 03 923 2102 | summerset.co.nz/nelson nelson.sales@summerset.co.nz

We have two serviced apartments available now at a reduced up-front price, with flexible pricing starting from $334,100* and different pricing options available. Plus, with the peace of mind of having six months to sell your current home,# it has never been easier to make the move.

To find out more about our serviced apartments, join us at our Open Weekend or contact Sales Manager, Karen Ward on 03 923 2102 to make a private appointment.

Love the life you choose.

OUR NELSON

TĀTOU WHAKATŪ

Long Term Plan 2024 – 2034

Nelson City Council’s deliberation outcomes for the Long Term Plan 2024 – 2034 (LTP) are now available on our Shape Nelson page.

Visit shape.nelson. govt.nz/long-termplan-2024-2034 to read about the outcomes and how they will impact our 10-year work programme.

It’s time to renew your dog registration

All dogs who are (or will be) three months of age or more on 1 July 2024 must have a current registration. Registrations are due on 30 June 2024.

For more information on changes to dog registration fees from 1 July 2024, visit our dog ownership fees page at nelson.govt.nz.

Once registered, the registration is required to be renewed annually by 30 June.

There is a grace period of up to one month, however failure to register your dog before 31 July will incur an infringement fine as well as late registration fee.

Dogs can be registered online at nelson.govt.nz. Please note that tags will be sent by post when you register online.

Budget support for flood protection

Flood protection projects from the Maitai to Queens Gardens can get started due to an injection of Central Government funding secured by a consortium of regional and unitary councils.

The Before the Deluge 2.0 business case was provided to Central Government in 2022 not long after the August 2022 weather event. The business case includes 80 ready-to-go flood management projects, from the tip of the North Island to the foot of the South Island.

In today’s Budget, Minister for Regional Economic Development Shane Jones announced a Regional Infrastructure Fund worth an initial $200 million for flood resilience infrastructure. Of this, up to $101.1 million is committed, along with co-investment from recipients to 42 flood resilience projects that are close to getting started.

Nelson will receive $9 million for a series of flood protection and repair projects in the first tranche of funding. Projects include improvements to the resilience of the Maitai River, a rebuild of the flood intake at Cleveland Terrace, flood repairs in Devenish Place, and upgrades to the Todds Valley and Hillwood Streams.

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith says the funding would enable $15 million of investment in improving Nelson’s flood resilience.

“I have spent considerable time lobbying central

government to secure this award and I’d like to thank Prime Minister Luxon and Ministers Willis, Jones, Mitchell, Bishop, Brown and Patterson. This extra support is perfectly timed for Nelson as we move from fixing the damage from the August 2022 storm to improving our resilience to future events.

“Storms will always be a risk for Nelson, even more so due to increased frequency and intensity due to climate change. This investment reduces flood risk significantly for hundreds of Nelsonians.”

Acting Group Manager Infrastructure David Light thanked staff for the work put into the business case.

“Members of our infrastructure team have put in a huge effort to secure this funding for Nelson, working collaboratively with Councils right across New Zealand. We’re looking forward to getting these projects started once funding is received from Central Government.”

Costs for the projects are shared with Government on a 60/40 split, with the Government taking the larger share.

For a full list of projects please read the story on the Our Nelson website.

Total Mobility free travel

Pat Curry Nelson Grey Power Committee

A new free transport option was made available from 1st May 2024 for Total Mobility/Ridewise card holders. It provides free travel for all existing and new Mobility Card/Ridewise cardholders

on all Nelson/Tasman ebus services.

In addition to free travel for the card holder, the Accessibility Concession may provide free transport for their “plus one companion”.

A “plus one companion” is the support person for card holders who are unable to travel independently by bus.

The support person does not need a Bee card.

To be able to use this concession you need to link your Total Mobility/Ridewise card (which has photo ID) to your Bee Card.

To do this you need to take both cards into either the Nelson City Council or the Tasman District Council. If

you do not have a Bee card, you can buy one at the Service Centre for $5.

A sticker will be placed on your Bee card, but you must still scan your card as you enter and exit a bus. The bus driver may request to see your Total Mobility/Ridewise card, so it is recommended that you carry this with you.

Streets for people

As Secretary of Nelson Grey Power, I have been attending meetings at Tasman District Council to discuss accessibility for all people in our community.

A4A it is called. Anyone can attend these meetings as we are trying to get as many as possible to have a say about their everyday activities and how difficult it is for some.

During discussions over the years, it appeared there was a lot of work to be

done. The Council received a grant from TNZ through the Government, as is being done in all places throughout the country. This grant has a timeframe and needs to be paid to the Council asap. We do not get the payment until the work is done. Due to the tight timeframes the work may look messy to people, but it is in draft form and will be upgraded in the future. The Council have been very professional in their approach to this whole situation and had roading

maps at the various meetings that were attended by some residents that live in the respective streets. Signage was placed around the affected streets advertising the changes and asking people to come and be informed as to the process.

The teachers and headmasters of the schools were involved in these discussions to get the children on bikes and out of cars to get to school.

My focus was on the elderly and those who have health issues. Some of you may

think seats are not needed but consider those who may look healthy but cannot breathe when walking too far.

Focus is on healthy living and looking out for those that cannot help themselves. Get out of the car and walk around and have conversations with your fellow walkers. Please stop the Council bashing on Facebook as it is doing no good. Constructive feedback is needed for the final works that will need to be done.

* Use of Nelson Grey Power discount book – which gives more than one hundred business discounts and is updated and republished biennially.

* Membership confers automatic free $2000 accidental death & dismemberment insurance.

* Provides an avenue for bringing concerns and ideas for improving welfare and wellbeing of older persons.

* Opportunity to meet with other members and socialise and form friendships.

* Access to a wide range of information brochures and education/learning opportunities.

* Opportunities to volunteer in the work of Nelson Grey Power.

To become a member visit greypowernelson.org.nz

Putaitai Street, Stoke Mon-Fri 10am - 3pm Ph: 03 547 2457 P. O. Box 2190 Stoke 7041 admin@greypowernelson.org.nz www.greypowernelson.org.nz

Applying for a Rates rebate

Councils, on behalf of the Department of Internal Affairs, administer the rates rebate scheme. You may qualify for a refund of a portion of your rates. There is a sliding scale for this rebate which links income level to rates levied. The more rates you pay the higher income you can earn and still qualify.

For more information and to download an application form, please visit the Department of Internal Affairs website via www.govt.nz For rates rebates enquiries you can also contact Council’s Customer Service Team.

Applications for rebates for the current rating year (1 July 2023 – 30 June 2023) need to be received prior to 30 June 2023.

Nelson Grey Power committee member Pat Curry (left), along with Nelson Mayor Nick Smith and Nelson Grey Power president Sue Sara at one of their regular mayoral meetings. These meetings provide a great opportunity to take members concerns directly to the top and hopefully get answers. See over page.

Pam Coltman

Nelson Grey Power

Nelson Grey Power Presidents note

Sue Sara

Hello and welcome to this, our official first edition of Nelson Grey Power’s new newsletter layout. We are extremely happy to be working alongside Top of the South Media in this new concept which enables us to keep in contact with our existing members, and also update the wider local population with happenings at Grey Power Nelson. It’s been an extremely busy year thus far, and my grateful thanks to Kim, our office admin, for her support. Our office volunteers are the backbone of our branch, always there to help with anything that may come their way.

I have been absent for a few weeks supporting my hubby in Christchurch whilst he underwent treatment. I always stayed in contact with the office and knew that with Kim on deck the place was in great hands. We are still looking for a treasurer to help us out. Just a couple of days a month to go over the books. If you have experience and are looking for something to stay active with, then please contact me on president@greypowernelson.org.nz. Our meetings with both Nelson and Tasman Mayors continue. Our recent Tasman meeting spent some time looking at housing for the elderly. Our meeting with Nelson Mayor is coming up so will update in the next edition.

Our Federation national AGM happens on 18th-20th June. I am looking forward to representing Nelson at this. Until next time, remember: Join us before you need us.

Our 2024 Annual General Meeting report

Nelson Grey Power’s 2024 AGM took place on April 13 and our thanks go to the 25 - 30 people who attended. Nelson Grey Power has a membership base of over

5,000 so it would have been wonderful to have seen a few more seats filled at the AGM.

As with any organisations, many hands make light

work, and we’d love to see more people taking an active role within our association. Please don’t be afraid to get involved as we need your views and ideas to continue to offer the valuable services we do. If you think you’d like to help out, in any capacity you feel comfortable with, we’d love to hear from you.

Committee 2024/2025 member portfolios

The Nelson Grey Power Committee work is undertaken on a voluntary basis by the organisation’s officers and committee members via a portfolio system. The

President – Sue Sara

Superannuation and Welfare, Membership, Over 50’s

Employment, Membership, Aged Care & Health, Zone 5 Meetings, Both Local Councils, and supporting all committee members in their portfolios.

Vice President – Kevin Gardener

Energy, Aged Care & Health, ACC, Zone 5 Meetings, Civil Defence

Treasurer – Position Open

member with portfolio responsibility reports on their portfolio to each Committee meeting.

Secretary - Pam Coltman

Tasman District Council, Community Housing for Pensioners, A4A, Transport & Law and Order, Streets for all People.

Zone 5 Director (GP Federation) – Kevin Gardener

Committee Member – Pat Curry

Aged Care & Health – NMDHB and NBPHO, Nelson City Council Meetings

Committee Member – Maureen Keogan

A4A, Housing, Positive Ageing, Streets for all, Vulnerable housing Committee Member – Gwen Bezett

Issues communicated to office volunteers are recorded in the Enquires Log and referred to the member with the relevant portfolio as required.

Gwen Bezett – Committee and Office Volunteer

I have held many positions while bringing up my children single-handed, ranging from parking warden, fish factory and support worker and then later working in an office. Most rewarding was working as a carer and then the office side of it. Looking out for the older person, making sure they are provided for and are comfortable in their declining years is a high priority.

Stable More Able

I play indoor and outdoor bowls and enjoy getting out and about on trips in my campervan. I enjoy being a volunteer which I have done since retiring. It keeps me in touch with people while helping out where needed.

I am on the Nelson Grey Power Committee and work on the front desk in the office as one of the many volunteers.

Sue Sara

Gwen Bezett has joined the Nelson Grey Power Committee and continues her volunteering role in the office.

Community Newsletter June 2024

Office News

Kim Harding Office Administrator

Welcome to our new way of communicating with our members, and with all the other newspaper readers as well. This will be a bi-monthly newsletter publishing in the first week of April, June, August, October, and December each year. Nelson Grey Power is still the biggest Grey Power organisation in New Zealand, followed by Marlborough.

With magazines no longer being produced we no longer require all the wonderful volunteers who took time out of their day to help fold magazines and address label the envelopes. These were quite social times and will be missed I’m sure by many of those people. Thank you to the people who regularly came to the office each quarter to help get magazines out to our members. I would also like to thank Lesley Bird for her time volunteering on the front desk and who has recently stepped down. We welcome Gwen Bezett on to the Committee. Gwen has also helped on the front desk for a year or so. Two new Office volunteers, Trish Duthie and Irene Harding, are currently in training. Thank you to these two for giving us your time, and welcome to the fold. Work has recently been done at our office making it safer and looking much more appealing. World Elder Abuse Day is June 15th so if you’re concerned someone is experiencing elder abuse, reach out and check in with them. Don’t judge, and if you’re not sure you can phone the Elder Abuse response service 0800 32 668 65.

Grey Power Electricity have a new sign-up offer for Grey Power members: Receive a $150 credit off your first power bill when you join Grey Power Electricity. This offer can be redeemed online at www.greypowerelectricity.co.nz/gpe150off. This offer is valid for new customers only for a limited time until 30 June 2024. You must be a Grey Power member to apply.

Just a reminder that all memberships run annually until 31 March. If you have a green label on your membership card it expired on 31 March 2024. You will need to renew membership if you want to continue being a Grey Power member and to qualify for the benefits that come with that.

Congratulations to the winners of our pay early prize draws

Every year we encourage members to renew their membership nice and early, and everyone who pays prior to the annual expiry date enters a draw to win prizes.

Thanks go to Top South Media for donating the first and second prizes and to Grey Power Electricity for donating third prizes for our draws. All winners have been notified.

MARCH PRIZE DRAW WINNERS

1st $50 Richmond Mall Voucher – S Smith

2nd $25 Richmond Mall Voucher – R and G Grant

3rd Gift Pack – P Judson

Long standing Volunteer retires

After helping for 12 years, Pat Stade decided to retire from her roles with Nelson Grey Power late last year.

Pat’s friendly face welcomed visitors to the office where she volunteered to man the front desk once every fortnight, stepping up to weekly duties during March and April when the renewing memberships saw an influx of people visiting to pay their subs. During that busy period volunteers venture out into the community to meet with new and renewing members, answering questions

and receiving payments. You could always count on Pat being one of the first to offer to venture out and take care of community visits to local rest homes and villages. During quieter periods Pat steadily worked away getting jobs done, and she folded many newsletters, labelled envelopes, and helped make sure that the regular Grey Power magazines made it to the post office. In

some instances she even hand-delivered the magazines to keep postage costs down, recruiting her daughter and son-in-law to help her out! Pat says she loved her time volunteering at Nelson Grey Power. “The time raced by so quickly. I enjoyed the people, dealing with and being amongst people.” Pat had previously retired from other groups and organisations and Nelson Grey Power was the one she stuck

with and stayed so long because she wanted to use her time being useful. “I didn’t want to sit at home and waste useful time when I could help an organisation in need of help. I had always been involved with groups.” Office manager Kim says it was a privilege to work with Pat. “Her lovely nature meant a friendship was soon established as it tends to with the office volunteers.”

Nelson Grey Power presented Pat with a posy of flowers at her last volunteer lunch in appreciation of her hard work and selfless use of her time.

Sandra Smith was delighted to win first prize in the Pay Early and Win draw and looks forward to treating herself with a shopping trip to Richmond Mall.

Pat Stade

Nelson Grey Power

An independently Incorporated Society serving people over the age of fifty

Have you renewed your Membership?

NELSON GREY POWER ASSN INC.

Membership Form

SURNAME………………………….…..

Office Use Only Date …………………….. Receipt No: ……………. Cards Issued ………….. Actioned By …………….

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION $25 Single or $35 Double Plus optional donation ………….... Total Payment $.....................

Payment methods:

Visit Nelson Grey Power, 33 Putaitai St, Stoke (Eftpos available) or Post to PO Box 2190, Stoke, 7041. Internet Banking: 03 1709 0071804 001. Please use surname as reference and mark NEW if a new membership. Subs can be left at Triton Hearing, 95 Bridge St, Nelson or McGlashen Pharmacy, Richmond. Your details will not be given to any other organisation for the purpose of sending you promotional material. All memberships expire 31 March.

Nelson Grey Power, 33 Putaitai St, PO Box 2190, Stoke, 7041 - Ph 547 2457 - Hours 10am - 3pm - greypowernelson.org

If you have paid already – Thank you for your continued support. If you are unsure whether you have paid - check your membership card. The label should now be YELLOW, and the date shown should read 31/03/2025 which is the new expiry date. If you haven’t renewed there are several ways you can make payment:

Collection points: McGlashen Pharmacy – Oxford St, Richmond Triton Hearing – Bridge St, Nelson Staff at both these locations will collect your payment and completed membership form. Please be sure to leave the correct amount of money as they cannot give change. Membership forms and envelopes are available if required, and we will collect payments once a week for processing.

Internet banking: Pay Westpac account 03-1709-0071804001 quoting your membership number. Grey Power office

Come and see us at 33 Putaitai St, Stoke. We have Eftpos available (sorry - no Paywave or Credit Card options).

Opening hours are 10am to 3.00pm Monday to Friday. Single sub $25 Double sub $35 Card/s and discount book will on hand if you pay in our office or will be posted to you on receipt of your payment for other payment methods.

You need to remain a financial member to qualify for the many benefits Nelson Grey Power offers its members, including taking advantage of Grey Power Electricity power company discounts, having the automatic $2000 Accidental Death and Dismemberment insurance, plus national and local discounts.

ARE YOU 60 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER? Help us find a way to prevent bloodstream infections.

People aged 60 years or older, with a history of urinary tract infection (UTI), are at an increased risk of developing a bloodstream infection caused by an E. coli bacteria.

A clinical research study to assess the effectiveness and safety of an investigational vaccine in the prevention of bloodstream infection is now enrolling. You may be eligible to participate if you:

• Are 60 years of age or older

• Have had a UTI in the past 2 years

• Feel comfortable, or have a caregiver who is comfortable, using an application on a smartphone

If you are interested, additional eligibility criteria will be assessed by the study doctor or staff. If you are found eligible to participate in this clinical research study, you will receive an investigational vaccine and complete a minimum of 8 study visits, some in person and some remote via telephone. The commitment for the study is approximately 3 years. Qualified participants may receive the investigational vaccine and some study-required medical care at no cost. The study will not pay for other medical care or current medication(s) needed to support your daily health care routine.

Doctor Claire Thurlow Pacific Clinical Research Network Tasman 469 Main Road Stoke, Nelson Phone: 03 265 6163 Email: admintasman@pcrn.co.nz Web: pcrn.co.nz/nelson-clinical-trials

The newly reconstructed pump track at

Recreation Hub is ready to ride!

Mayor Nick, Councillor Matty Anderson and Councillor Trudie Brand, along with Principal Parks and Facilities Activity Planner

Paul Harrington and Project Manager Claire McLean met with some young riders at the recently completed pump track at the Maitai Recreation Hub.

The Maitai Pump Track was

initially completed in May 2022, only three months later, it was destroyed in the 2022 August floods. Empire of Dirt returned from Christchurch to build it back even better than it was before and managed to salvage 80% of the materials from the previous build.

There's still some bits and pieces to finish off like seating and landscaping but it's now open and ready to ride!

Top tips for school lunches

School lunches have been in the media spotlight. Sometimes a lunch can go straight from the lunchbox to the bin without anyone seeing it.

Some New Zealand schools have done food waste audits. One classroom threw away 18kg of edible food a week. The most common foods thrown are half-eaten sandwiches and apples. Our food waste expert Karen Lee has been looking at ways families can reduce food waste.

1. Meal plan with your kids

You know what your child eats but involving them in the meal planning process can help kids eat more lunch. Do they want a banana or an apple? Carrot sticks or celery sticks? Chips or popcorn?

2. Keep track

See what children bring home before it goes in the bin. If the same foods come back, consider a swap.

3. Keep lunch boxes chilly An insulated lunch box/ice pack will keep food fresh.

4. Repurpose other meals

If they eat it for dinner, they’ll probably eat it for lunch. By packing leftovers, you’ll reduce your household waste. Win-win!

5. The freezer’s your friend

If you can prep school lunches by making muffins, mini-pancakes or banana bread, pull a slice from the freezer the night beforehand.

Government’s Māori Wards bill opposed by Nelson City Council

Nelson City Council Deputy Mayor Rohan O’NeillStevens and Chief Executive Nigel Philpott have cosigned a submission to the Local Government (Electoral Legislation and Māori Wards and Constituencies)

Amendment Bill asking the Government to reconsider its position regarding Māori Wards.

O’Neill-Stevens says there are a range of views about how local government's electoral arrangements should be determined, but legislation should be consistently applied, and there is no question of the need to ensure Māori participation within local government.

“I’m concerned the Bill recreates the distinctions between Māori wards or constituencies and others, which do not require polls.

“We are calling on the Government to treat Māori wards and other wards consistently, recognising the key principle of localism in local government.”

2024, it may provide a supplementary submission.

O’Neill-Stevens says Mayor Nick Smith has delegated the role of leading the Nelson City Council submission on this bill because of his appointment as Chair of a national working group on local government electoral reform.

Interview with Councilor Matty Anderson

Councillor Anderson is on the board of two schools, has four school-age boys and his partner is a teacher. What do your kids bring home uneaten?

We have the “journey apple”. It stays in the lunchbox for a few days. When that’s gone I know they were hungry. They eat heaps when events are on or forget on a full-on day.

Absolute winners your kids will always eat?

Unhealthy packaged snacks and home-baking are winners, but also celery (even without extras like peanut butter)! I use a serrated peeler to make cucumber and carrot Thai salad.

What’s hardest when arranging lunch boxes?

Messy yoghurt pots! It’s hard to find a lunch box that won’t break. Too many compartments cause challenges like fitting in an apple.

Are there any interesting trends you’ve noticed in kids’ lunch boxes? Biggest issue is kids missing lunch and breakfast. A very good social indicator of how much money and time parents have. Feeling pressured to make a small hotpot in a thermos, or to provide a food that fits each lunchbox compartment is stressful for parents whose pantry is looking a bit sad or when it isn’t pay week.

The submission also cites concern at the short timeframe provided for submissions on the Bill, which has not allowed Councils across New Zealand the time to formally consider their position.

Consequently, Council has asked the Justice Select Committee to consider the submission as preliminary. Once Council has had the opportunity to discuss the Bill at a workshop scheduled this week, and to formally confirm its position at a meeting scheduled for 6 June

“This role as Chair will involve working with a range of Mayors and Councillors who hold different views across the country on the issues covered by the bill such as the process for establishing wards and postal voting. He would prefer not to take a position on these issues ahead of this electoral reform work.”

As a result, Nelson City Council was not initially one of the 52 signatories of a letter sent by Local Government New Zealand opposing the bill sent to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters and Minister of Local Government Simeon Brown.

“Our submission aligns with the content of that letter and following the delegation of this work to me, I have added my signature to it,” says O’Neill-Stevens.

Reminder that Wakatu Lane, from Trafalgar Street into Wakatu carpark is closed for the remainder of the year (reopening over the Christmas period).

This closure is for the construction of a new building on Bridge Street. Access to the Wakatu carpark is via Achilles Ave off Rutherford Street. The businesses in Wakatu Square are still open and would love to see you!

the Maitai

Nelson scientists foster French connection

Scientists at Cawthron Institute in Whakatū Nelson have welcomed approximately 20 scientists from IFREMER, the French national institute for ocean science and technology, this week for a fiveday knowledge exchange workshop.

Cawthron’s Chief Science Officer

Dr Cath McLeod said the focus of the visit will be on exploring opportunities for research collaboration in areas of shared interest, including biodiversity and the blue economy.

“As research institutes dedicated to understanding and protecting the world’s oceans from urgent and increasing environmental pressures, Cawthron and IFREMER are eager to collaborate to

leverage our efforts and have a greater combined impact,” said Dr McLeod.

“We’re keen to work together in a few priority areas including the impact of climate change on human and environmental health, advancing the future of marine aquaculture and transitioning towards sustainable blue economies.”

IFREMER’s scientific director, Dr Chantal Compère, said that while the ocean offers great potential in terms of biological resources for the benefit of society, there are challenges that must be overcome if this potential is to be exploited sustainably.

“There are a lot of different pressures on marine ecosystems, in-

cluding aquatic disease epidemics, invasive species incursions, harmful algal blooms and pollution, and all of these are made worse by climate change,” Dr Compère said.

“Both Cawthron Institute and IFREMER hold expertise in these fields of science, and combining our knowledge and skillsets will create opportunities to enhance the health and wellbeing of the marine environment and the people who depend on it for food and income.”

Anne Rouault, Science & Higher Education Attachée at the Embassy of France in New Zealand, said that collaborative research between France and New Zealand is an important feature of

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HOURS Lunch 11:30am - 2:00pm - Dinner 5pm onwards

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HOURS Lunch 11am- 2:00pm - Dinner 4:30pm - 9:00pm

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the relationship between the two countries.

“Today, science cooperation between New Zealand and France is strategically scaling up. New opportunities such as the recent association of New Zealand to Horizon Europe will support this positive dynamic,” Rouault said.

“The collaboration between IFREMER and Cawthron will increase our capacity to deliver on the blue economy agenda and to address the global challenge of ocean protection. This cooperation occurs at a crucial moment ahead of the 3rd UN Ocean Conference to be held in Nice in June 2025.”

The IFREMER delegation will visit Cawthron’s Nelson research

A taste of tradition The Indian Café offers an extensive menu that pays homage to the rich culinary heritage of India. From the smoky, tantalizing aromas of tandoori chicken and the creamy, spiced layers of chicken tikka masala, to the vegetarian delights like paneer tikka masala and aloo gobi, the restaurant ensures an authentic experience.

Each dish is prepared using traditional cooking methods and spices sourced directly from India, promising an explosion of flavours that are both familiar and exotic.

A feast for the senses walking into Indian Café patrons are immediately enveloped by the warm, inviting ambiance.

facilities including the Cawthron Aquaculture Park at Glenduan and its main Halifax Street campus.

Dr McLeod says the visit is enormously beneficial for New Zealand’s research, science and innovation system, as well as the relationship between both countries.

“We are thrilled to have a delegation of this size visit for an entire week – I think that demonstrates the seriousness of our commitment to this partnership and our eagerness to do some excellent and impactful science together that will create new opportunities for the growth of the blue economy and an increased focus on protecting and enhancing marine

ensures that each meal not only delights the palate but also tells a story of India’s gastronomic journey.

The culinary team at Indian Café is led by professionals with many years of experience in renowned kitchens across India and internationally. Chef passion for Indian cuisine is evident in every dish, where authentic flavors are balanced with innovative presentations. Chef’s expertise

An inclusive dining experience catering to a diverse clientele, Indian Café offers a variety of options to accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions.

The menu includes a wide range of gluten-free and vegan dishes, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the rich flavors of Indian cuisine.

Our staff are well-trained to assist with any dietary needs and can recommend dishes to suit individual preferences.

Beyond Dining: Indian Café aims to be more than just a place to eat; it seeks to be a cultural experience.

Reservations can be made by calling Richmond 544 8979, Stoke 547 0008 and Nelson 548 4089 or through their website theindiancafe.co.nz. Follow us on social media for updates, specials, and more.

BUSINESS

TAKEAWAYS

INTRODUCING CENTRAL DEMOLITION

Branch manager Leighton Saunders is thrilled to introduce Central Demolition to the region. With 20 years of industry leading experience, this Kiwi-based company is set to bring its expertise across a range of services, to new clients. Central Demolition specialises in handling residential, commercial, and industrial projects of varying complexity and scale. “We are open to every type of work,” says Leighton. “We are excited to be launching the business in the region and look forward to collaborating with others here.” Drawn to the company by its longstanding industry history, Leighton emphasises their strong values regarding health and safety, upskilling employees, supporting mental health, and protecting the environment. “We want to be the go-to guys who offer a great service from day one.” Their comprehensive service includes asbestos testing and removal, demolition work, concrete cutting, and remedial mould and soil work, along with general contracting. “With our knowledge we can estimate the likelihood of asbestos presence, but true certainty comes from testing. We can help with this and to formulate a plan if

the test is positive,” Leighton explains. With a nationwide network behind him, Leighton’s decade-plus experience in the industry gives him a unique edge. He has worked in every aspect of the sector and enjoys problemsolving, meeting with clients, and ensuring a smooth process. Scenarios range from simple renovations revealing asbestos to emergency demolition or contamination work after a disaster. Leighton stresses the importance of contacting Central Demolition before starting work on older homes. Asbestos fibres travel like dust and can potentially contaminate entire households. “A simple job can quickly become a major situation. I’ve seen it happen,” he warns. “Asbestos at demolition is a problem, but I love to meet with people, put them at ease, and make the process as smooth as possible.” Central Demolition ensures all contaminated materials are properly disposed of, adhering to strict health and safety protocols. Their meticulous approach and comprehensive services make them a vital addition to the region’s construction and demolition landscape.

FOUR YEARS OF COMMUNITY AND QUALITY AT RICHMOND TAKEAWAYS

For the past four years, Thanh Ni and Ngoc have owned and operated Richmond Takeaways, a beloved fish and chip shop in the heart of Richmond township. Renowned for its delicious offerings and friendly atmosphere. the shop serves as a welcoming spot where locals can enjoy a great meal and socialise. The menu at Richmond Takeaways is diverse and family-friendly. It includes various kid’s packs, burgers, and their delicious kumara chips. However, the highlight remains the rig, a staple and firm customer favourite that keeps patrons coming back for more.

One of the standout features of Richmond Takeaways is their family packs, which offer great value and variety, catering perfectly to families looking for a convenient and tasty meal option. This emphasis on quality and value has cemented their reputation as a go-to spot for takeaways in the community. Conveniently located close to the mall, Richmond Takeaways is not just a place

to grab a quick meal. It’s a great gathering spot where people can enjoy fantastic fish and chips, friendly service, and reasonable prices. The Ni family takes great pride in creating a welcoming environment for all their customers. Reflecting on their journey, the couple express immense gratitude for the unwavering support from the community. “We really enjoy meeting people and providing first-grade products to our customers,” says Thanh. As they continue their journey, Thanh Ni and Ngoc look forward to many more years of serving their community with dedication and passion. They invite everyone to come by, enjoy their delicious offerings, and become part of the Richmond Takeaways family. Richmond Takeaways is open seven days a week, the operating hours are from 4:30pm to 7:30pm from Sunday to Wednesday and until 8pm from Thursday to Saturday. To place an order, call 544 8993.

DELIVERING ON TIME, EVERY TIME

For more than 35 years, Star Moving and Distribution has provided a professional home and furniture removal service founded on reliability, security, and friendliness. With branches in Nelson, Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, Star Moving takes the stress out of moving by going that extra mile. A longstanding, locally owned company, Star Moving’s Nelson office is located at 178b Tahunanui Drive. Pop in and talk to the friendly, professional team for everything related to your move from furniture and contents pre-packing, loading, and unloading, to unpacking, storage and transit insurance. If you require packing, Star Moving and Distribution provide trained packers who carefully wrap precious belongings in the most secure way possible. The company also specializes in Heavy Item moving, utilizing tail lifts and specialized equipment. All furniture and stored belongings are carefully itemised and containerised for protection and security. If relocating to another house, Star Moving

will blanket-wrap all home furniture and effects and they will be securely stowed in a carpet-lined pantechnicon for travelling. Household furniture and beds are placed in your new home. To save clients time, Star Moving also offers an unpacking service. If you need storage, we provide export-approved fire and burglar-protected storage warehouses in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Nelson. A fleet of modern trucks and regular service run throughout NZ, Star Moving and Distribution fully cater to daily and weekly freight services throughout the country, which also works well for commercial customers. To assist with the home removal process, Star Moving kindly provides planning tips/materials should you choose to pack your home contents yourself. Please contact us to discuss or book a home visit and written quote. Phone 03 548 6667 or email nelson@ starmoving.co.nz. Owner Stuart, phone 027 439 2580 or email stuart@starmoving. co.nz. For a ballpark estimate, visit our website: www.starmoving.co.nz

Glenn Roberts Electrical: Lighting up Nelson for over 30 years

For over three decades, Glenn Roberts Electrical (GRE) has illuminated Nelson, providing exceptional electrical services.

Founded by Glenn and Kris Roberts in 1992, GRE has grown from a small local business into a trusted company renowned for quality, innovation, and customer service. Today, it remains locally owned and operated, embodying the Roberts family's vision and dedication.

ACROSS A GENERATION

Glenn and Kris Roberts established GRE in 1992 with a strong work ethic and a passion for diverse electrical services, earning a reputation for excellence. In 2007, their son Josh, an experienced electrician, and his partner Nichola, with a background in office management, took over the business. Under their leadership, GRE expanded to over 25 staff, accumulating accolades such as the NTCC Medium and Supreme Business Awards.

The company is also an Accredited Master Electrician, often winning the Master Electricians Apprentice of the Year, reflecting their commitment to nurturing talent and excellence in the electrical industry.

A BRIGHT NEW CHAPTER

In 2024, GRE relocated to a

new, modern workspace and rebranded as GRE Services. This move symbolises a fresh start for the company, aligning with their goals to enhance customer service, prioritise health and safety, and reduce environmental impact. The new facility and updated brand identity position GRE Services for continued success, offering comprehensive services while maintaining high

standards of safety and environmental practices. GRE Services' Site Wise Gold certification further underscores their dedication to these principles.

YOUR TOP OF THE SOUTH ELECTRICAL EXPERTS

GRE Services offers a wide range of electrical services for residential, retail, commercial, and industrial projects, delivering topquality results:

• Residential Services: Lighting, power installations, upgrades, re-

pairs, and maintenance.

• Commercial Services: Energyefficient lighting and power solutions to reduce energy costs and environmental impact.

• Solar PV Services: Through Solar Smart Energy, GRE offers solar PV design, supply, installation, and maintenance for sustainable power solutions.

• Automation and Controls: Automating lighting, heating, and other systems for maximum convenience and efficiency.

• Heat Pumps and HVAC: Supply, installation, maintenance, and repair services for year-round comfort.

• Event Electrical: Setup for lighting and power needs at sports events, concerts, festivals, and more.

• Dental and Medical Equipment Servicing: Accredited servicing for dental chairs, autoclaves, and x-ray equipment.

• Inspections and IQP: Electrical inspections, EWOFs, COVs, BPA, and IQP for BWOF specified systems.

Contact GRE Services to arrange your next electrical project or repair. The same great team, offering the same great service!

The GRE Services team.

Fifeshire Island, Nelson’s natural resource Local History

ROBYN PARKES

Haulashore Island has been a place of enjoyment for many generations, The island’s official name was ‘Fifeshire Island’ given in March 1842, and named after the earliest immigrant ship to Nelson. The name, Haulashore, came from it being used to haul (haul ashore) vessels onto its beach to be examined and repaired.

The ship ‘Fifeshire’, on setting sail on the 27th of February 1842, struck rocks on Arrow Rock. Her back was broken and she was condemned and advertised for salvage. The hull of the ship, water butts, chains, various fittings and stores were auctioned on Fifeshire Island in April 1842. Auctions of various other items were frequent, including cattle and other stock which were landed directly on the island. By 1843, with a natural slip for

vessels, the island was used to examine and repair crafts. It was stated that, “A place better adapted for this purpose nowhere exists.”

In 1846 a coal supply depot for steamers was put on the island with a stock of 500 tons of coal.

A platform on both sides of the island was built to facilitate the loading and unloading of the coal. The war vessel, HMS ‘Racehorse’ from Wellington, arrived in December 1847 for a clean and refit. The guns and stores were landed on the island and a day later the ship was laid onshore to have her bottom cleaned.

The town was very proud of its natural slip and soon numerous vessels were arrivng to make use of it. The Ralph Bernal, on its voyage from Sydney in October 1848, was found to be leaking. Once in Nelson the problem was found under the bow. Within hours the ship was hauled onto

Fifeshire, fixed and back in the water on the evenings tide. The uniqueness of the slip was again promoted as it was not known of any other port in New Zealand where the same facilities existed for repairing vessels, the rise and fall of the tide being from 12 to 17 feet, the water smooth and deep,

close to the shore and a bank with a soft bottom.

In 1864, a slip constructed at Wellington for the cleaning and repairing of New Zealand Steam Navigation Company’s vessels was found to be inadequate. The company resolved to make use of the superior advantages which

Nelson’s harbour offered for this purpose, and negotiated with the Nelson Superintendent to lease a portion of beach at Fifeshire and construct a cradle capable of holding the largest steamers belonging to the company.

Two years later the steamer ‘Wellington’ required an overhaul, but the Fifeshire Island cradle constructed by the N.Z.S.N. Company was said to be of no use. She was sent to Auckland to be placed on the slip there which was not successful, so returned to Nelson, and although the cradle was not the best fit for the vessel the required work was completed. In February 1874 the old patent slip on Fifeshire lsland was auctioned as it laid and was to be removed within six weeks. Repairs continued to be carried out on the island for many years. The ‘Dido’ received extensive repairs to take her from a cutter to be rigged as a schooner in 1878.

Elevated view of Fifeshire Island: Nelson Provincial Museum, Ellis Dudgeon Collection.

As if an ultra-marathon wasn’t enough

JACK MALCOLM

Local doctor Deborah Barber doesn’t shy away from a test.

So, when she decided to take on an ultra-marathon through Chile’s Atacama Desert crossing in 2019 after running just two marathons, she ended up crossing the line in first place.

Returning to the ‘Racing the Planet’ ultramarathon series in May, she took on a new challenge as she raced 250km through the Namib Desert.

“You do four marathons over four consecutive days and then the longest march, which is 80km, in the final day.”

Add in a heavy pack, with the race self-supported, and you have a recipe for one of the hardest races in the world.

Deborah says weight was such a big factor that she tried snapping her toothbrush in half to save those extra few grams.

“You have to carry everything but your tent.

“Carrying full food for the week, which meets certain calorie requirements, a list of mandatory equipment, and you have to leave each drink station with at least 1.5 litres of water.”

And with some of the hottest days on record for the race, with temperatures soaring into the mid-50s, she says it was a true test of grit and determination.

“I’d be running down big sand dunes and I’d be sinking into the sand up to my knees.

“Every evening I’d have a dune full of sand in my shoes,” she laughs.

Deborah says the race was like running on the beach for days,

Despite temperatures topping 54 degrees and wind so heavy it ripped out the track markings, Deborah Barber (who races under an Australian flag) crossed the finish line of Racing the Planet’s Namib Ultra Marathon in first place. Photo: Supplied.

which she wished she had done more training of before heading over after signing up for the race in December.

Her main concern was her 11kg pack, which didn’t help when sinking into the soft sand.

As an experienced, but self-described casual runner, she says blisters were another big thing you can’t avoid.

“For me, it’s trying to burst them as soon as possible to avoid the pressure build-up.

“The less you do the better. I see

people wrapping them all up, but they often are just creating another point to create more blisters.”

But despite the tribulations, Deborah was the first female across the finishing line, to defend her title from five years ago.

She met her husband, Garry Walker, running when they were both in Greenland’s Polar Bear Challenge, a one-and-a-half marathon race. He also ran in the Namib Desert race, but travelled home before Deborah after they spent time decompressing from

their race and being tourists.

Having already made her way to Africa, she stayed on to volunteer in a remote lifeline clinic.

She says it’s hard to tell what was more physically and mentally taxing, working with the marginalised local indigenous community or racing an ultra-marathon through the desert.

“It was eye-opening and heart-breaking, and everything in between. We packed a lot into our five weeks.”

Deborah, who works locally as a

locum GP, says it would have felt wrong to travel all that way with her background and not contribute.

As for another ultramarathon through the desert, she says it might take some time to build back up to wanting to do that again.

But she and Garry do have their eyes set on a race in the Antarctic.

“It’s an opportunity to meet people from all over the world. To do a run like that attracts a certain type of person.”

Love of sport sees Kings Honours

JACK MALCOLM

Even Pat Carrick-Clarke’s grandchildren aren’t familiar with the accolades that have seen her named on the King’s Birthday honours.

With over 63 years of dedication to sport of all kinds, she’s done everything from represent her country to being on the executive committee of sports she doesn’t even play.

Pat was also the first woman in history to umpire a men’s firstclass cricket game, something she says earned the attention of press around the world.

Spending her younger years in Christchurch, she cut her teeth playing cricket with her brothers at the park across the road from their house.

Back then, women’s cricket was in such a poor state that she didn’t start playing in organised competition until she was 17, despite having a love for the game.

And Pat quickly rose through the ranks, captaining Canterbury to several successes through the 1960s and ‘70s that saw her named in New Zealand’s women’s team for tours of Australia and South Africa.

“We had to pay $500 to go on that tour,” she says.

“You never got that for free. Women’s cricket has progressed so much.”

The highlight of Pat’s playing career came in New Zealand’s 1972 tour of Australia, where the team won for the first time against their ANZAC foes after almost four decades of trying.

“I was a huge part of that, getting nine wickets. I was 6/29 off 20 in the first innings and got another three wickets in the second.

“I was really proud of what we did in that test match.”

When Pat decided to retire, having aged out of the top-level of play at 39, she says she decided to stay in the game as an umpire.

“I’m probably more famous for umpiring,” she says.

She umpired 15 first-class games and two women’s tests before retiring in 1991.

In 1995, she and her her husband moved to Nelson to be closer to his children.

“Moving up here to Nelson felt like being incognito,” she says.

As an avid netballer as well, she then got heavily involved in the local game, having played at the representative level in Canterbury. For three years,she coached Nelson representative teams and sat as a committee member of the Nelson Netball Association.

Pat has also been an executive officer of Bowls Nelson since 2019,

despite saying she’s never played the game.

“I love going now to watch them.

That’s because I’m sports person.

“I love all sports, I can’t miss my Crusaders.”

Pat travelled to Christchurch last weekend for a regularly scheduled family meet-up.

Having only spilled the beans of her new accolade to her sister, she was excitedly looking forward to surprising the rest of the 20-plus family members at a dinner on Monday.

“I had already organised it. Then, when I got this thing I had to change it.”

She says it would be special to share the moment with them, saying without their support she wouldn’t have been able to go out and achieve what she did.

“It’s in our DNA. You could never do what you do without the support of your family. They looked after my children.

“For our tour of South Africa and Australia in ‘72, they had the children for three months.”

Six decades of service honoured

JACK MALCOLM

If you’ve been involved with netball at any time in the past 60 years, Marilyn Milne’s name appearing on the King’s Honours list will probably seem long overdue. For more than six decades, she has been a constant figure on side lines throughout the community as a driver of the sport.

Marilyn is a life member of Nelson Netball and has served as the president, secretary, and executive member of several regions throughout the South Island. She has also been a coach, umpire, and selector. She’s been the Facilitator of the Growth and Development Group for Nelson Netball and has sat on the South Island Secondary Schools’

Management Committee since 1996, serving as secretary from 2009 to 2022. As a coach and manager of Nelson College for Girls’ senior A netball team, she was responsible for almost 50 teams during her tenure. She is also a nationally recognised Netball Bench Official and has represented the Nelson region at national tournaments and games, including at Trans-Tasman Secondary School Championships and Silver Fern games.

game was through Waitaki Girls High School in North Otago at the age of 13.

“I got involved across playing, coaching, and sat my first umpire’s badge.”

Marilyn Milne

Marilyn’s love for netball started at a young age, saying her introduction to the

“Then I met the icon Lois Muir and attended one of her coaching courses and she threw in a team to coach. I was on my way to a lifetime of involvement in netball.”

She says none of it would have been possible without the support of her husband Doug and their four children.

A mixture of love for netball and a love for volunteering meant giving her time to the

local game was an easy decision.

“I have been able to work across many aspects of the game and in many areas of the country especially the South Island. Working in the field of Secondary School Netball has given me some of the most satisfaction and pleasure.

“The people you meet and form relationships with is amazing.”

Marilyn’s service has seen her awarded a Service to School Sport New Zealand Award, a Netball New Zealand Service Award, a South Island Secondary Schools’ Service Award, and a Lifetime Contribution to Sport Award from Sport Tasman. She says she feels “honoured and proud” to add the Kings’ Service medal to her list of accolades.

Pat Carrick-Clarke was part of the driving force in making women’s cricket what it is today, having been an instrumental member of big changes in the game. Photo: Supplied.

Wonder goal sees FC Nelson topple Suburbs

ANDREW BOARD

Two cracking finishes from Labu Pan – the first an absolute stunner – has seen FC Nelson come from behind to cause a major upset in beating Nelson Suburbs to advance to the next round of the Chatham Cup.

Nelson Suburbs were heavy favourites heading into the game on its home ground.

Suburbs compete in the Southern Premier League, against the best club sides from around the South Island, while FC Nelson play in the local first division.

But FC Nelson looked far from out of place and would probably have felt a little aggrieved as they headed into the half time break down 1-0.

Toshihiro Takiguchi and Jamane Wilson each created an opportunity early and the visitors could have been ahead if it weren’t for the sharp goal keeping of Suburbs’ Ewan Mullet.

When Suburbs did score, via a lovely cut back from Josh Moffat and superb finish from Dauntae Mariner, it felt like all of FC’s hard work would be for nothing.

But in the 60th minute Labu Pan spotted Mullet off his line and chipped the goalkeeper from 40

metres out to level the game and give the visitors a glimmer of hope.

That hope turned to pure joy just six minutes later when Wesley

Olea placed a beautiful pass in the path of Pan who then slid the ball passed Mullet and into Suburbs goal, giving FC the lead for the first time.

From then on it was operation ‘hold on’ as FC Nelson thwarted a desperate Suburbs to claim a famous victory.

FC Nelson coach Paul Brydon

says he couldn’t have been prouder of his team.

“It was a great game of football, it shows the talent that we have in the region.

“I thought we started really well, we could have had a goal in the first 20 seconds.

“We said before the game that we just have to stick with them but I thought we actually were the better team in the first 15 minutes,” he adds.

When Labu hit his strike from the edge of the centre circle, Paul says his first reaction was “that’s world class”.

“You won’t see a goal better than that.

“To control it, get his head up and hit it like that... his vision is just amazing. He’s a very hard player to mark because he drifts around, he’s deceptively quick and brilliant on the ball. If he wanted to, he could probably play A-League.”

Paul also had praise for his young goalkeeper Charlie Calderbank, who made several top saves.

“He’s just turned 17 and he’s very brave for a young keeper, I’m so proud of him.”

FC Nelson will now go into the pot for selection of the next round of the Chatham Cup.

Wesley Olea, right, and Toshihiro Takiguchi celebrate with Labu Pan (on the ground) after his incredible Chatham Cup goal for FC Nelson against Nelson Suburbs at Saxton Field on Sunday.

Photo: Chris Symes/Shuttersport.

Legs weak, arms are heavy after ultra

ALEX ROBERTON

My Sunday last week saw me compete in a new race with a brutal 55km course which included over 3000 metres of climbing and descending.

The inaugural edition of The Bay Trail run saw 47 brave souls, including myself, make it to the 6am start line ahead of tackling trails around the Cable Bay Adventure Park, The Glen, and across the Cable Bay walkway to Pepin Island before heading back into the Adventure Park for one final lap.

With 220 entrants over the four distances, I decided to take on the longest and most challenging of the courses, with an Adventure Park 10km, La Sportiva 24km and Tailwind 34km option also available.

An hour later, and after 600m of climbing, I was at the top of

the park and descended back into the valley below, which was the only chance all day to stretch the legs and get some pace up going downhill.

I felt strong for the first 28km, but the descent from the lookout down to Cable Bay highlighted my lack of experience and I suspect this is where the biggest time gains are to be had on my side.

The lap of Pepin was a special highlight, being able to race on private land and enjoy views not often seen was a privilege and welcome distraction from the onsets of cramp in my legs and the start of not feeling too flash, having entered on the Thursday evening just hours before the cutoff.

On the next climb was where

things were came a bit undone for me. Nearly 6 hours in with a torturous 15km still to go, I ran where I could but also walked and struggled for rhythm on some more technical parts of the course.

As we descended back towards the Adventure Park I thought the climbing was over, but we were treated to an additional two late climbs in the Adventure Park itself.

With 5km to go I saw some mountainbikers riding up the hill and wondered why I hadn’t done that instead. One more push up a track called Formula One, with my ascent that could be described as anything but, and it was onto the final downhill to the finish.

I crossed the line in 8 hours 46 minutes and 28 seconds, good enough for 17th overall.

A result I’m proud of given my lack of preparation.

Sporting Snippets

The South Island Weightlifting Championships chalked up at Nelson Weightlifting Club on Saturday and Sunday with the club’s own competitors vying for top gongs against Blenheim, Christchurch, Otago and Invercargill lifters.

Nelson Weightlifting Club’s Bailey Lovett clinched first in the female under 71kg class, and Sean Barton was the sole competitor in the men’s under 109kg class.

Ed Keene clinched second in the men’s under 81kg class.

Zoe Fitzgerald placed third in the female 87kg plus category, and Roberto Cerezo Rodriguez placed third in the men’s 109kg plus class.

Division one: Marlborough’s Central club put in a dominate display to beat Marist 42-16 at Trafalgar Park on Saturday while Nelson picked up its first win of the season, beating Moutere 33-29. On Friday, Waimea Old Boys fell just short against Kahurangi with the visitors winning 39-36 at Jubilee Park. Standings: Kahurangi 36; Central 29; Waimea Old Boys 27; Stoke

First XV: Nelson College picked up a big 50-0 win over old foe Marlborough Boys’ College in Blenheim last Thursday. The two sides were undefeated heading into the clash but Nelson proved far too strong. Nelson next play Selwyn Combined in Christchurch on Saturday June 8.

Rugby Basketball

In the Nelson Baketball men’s first division last Tuesday, ABC Old Boys beat Gilas Pilipinas 79-63; ABC Mamba beat JA Ballers 72-62; Koata Krazy Horzes beat Stoke Raiders 100-52 and ABC Magic beat Mot Buckets 75-35.

Young basketball star Nick Davidson has had a week to remember. First, he played for the Giants at the Trafalgar Centre on Thursday, scoring 10 points and earning praise from coach Mike Fitchett. He then went away with a Nelson U20 rep team and dropped 57 points on Waitakere.

Running

Hayden Squance was the fastest person in Kaiteriteri on Sunday, winning the Kaiteriteri Gold half marathon in an impressive 1:32:14. Squance beat 72 other runners to the title, while Candice Riley was the fastest woman home in a time of 1:49:58. In the 16km race, Breon Gravatt beat out 54 other runners to win in a time of 1:13:28 while Catherine Delaporte was the fastest woman in that class with a time of 1:25:50. In the 8km race Oliver Costley was the first home in 37:15 while Grace Wallace won the women’s race, in 45:54. Finally, in the kids 3.2km race, Max Richards was the winner in a time of 16:40 and Lily Verhage was the first girl home in 17:11.

See the full match report on

Having signed up for the 55km race just hours before entries closed, Alex Roberton put himself to the test over the weekend. Photo: Supplied.

27; Marist 26; Moutere 12; Nelson -1.

Stein Schreiber dots the ball down in the corner for Kahurangi. Photo: Barry Whitnall/Shuttersport.

Ed Keene clinched second in the mens under 81kg class. Photo: Chris Ss/ Shuttersport

Nick Davidson in action for the Giants. Photo: Evan Barnes/Shuttersport.

Giants seek improvements to be play-off bound

JACK MALCOLM

The NBS Nelson Giants have an uphill battle if they want to be in the playoff picture.

But with six games remaining, there is still time for them to right their ship after suffering a blow in the game last week to the Hawke’s Bay Hawks.

With the Giants in sixth on the table and the Hawks in seventh, the result may have important implications for both sides.

Both team’s seasons hang in the balance, with coach Mike Fitchett saying the defeat felt like a “double loss” because of the playoff implications.

“We’re struggling to shoot the ball well. I don’t know what the fix is.”

Another symptom of the team’s shooting woes was a difficulty to shoot from the freethrow line, with the team shooting 9/16.

“That’s a problem, you’ve got to make those free shots,” says Mike.

“We shot ourselves in the foot there.”

With Alex McNaught out with an ankle injury, the team will be praying that he recovers in time after the injury was not as bad as previously thought.

This year’s schedule sees both teams still in the hunt for the final playoff spots, with the Giants having played 13 games with five wins and eight losses, while the

Hawks have had five wins and six losses from their 11 games. They sit just behind the Franklin Bulls (11GP, 7W, 4L), while the Tauranga Whai (13GP/5W/8L)

and the Otago Nuggets (10GP/4W/7L) are also in the hunt, with teams having played a disproportionate number of games which could see a lot of

movement on the table down the stretch.

While the games have been close, the Giants need someone to step up at the death to put the game on their shoulders.

With the team not making any points in the final three minutes of their loss to the Hawks, they were hesitant to put up the shot and be the playmaker for the team.

But, someone needs to fill those shoes if the Giants want to be a playoff contender.

With six games remaining and the Giants playing a majority of their opponents who sit in a similar position, there is still a chance they will be in the Final 6 come the end of the season.

Games against the Whai (8th on the table), the Canterbury Rams (2nd), a rematch against Hawke’s Bay, the Manawatu Jets (10th) and the Southland Sharks (11th) round out June before the two final regular season matches in July.

The Giants finish off their home season with a game against the Otago Nuggets (9th) before heading to Taranaki to play the Airs (3rd).

Dan Fotu is one of the playmakers for the side this season, but they lack a scoring star who can put the game on their shoulders this season. Photo: Evan Barnes/Shuttersport.

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Community Notices

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MONDAY

LIVING LEGACIES, Mon, 10 Jun, Age Concern Nelson Office, 18 Bridge St. A short information talk about Living Legacies, their workshops and how they can help your family. Ph: 035447624 ext 0.

tive in our community. Meet 1st & 3rd Thurs of the month. Ph: Jillian 0272782743.

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

FRIDAY

curated evening with Nigel Weeks directing top talent with choirs, brass ensemble, and soloists.

NELSON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA. Sat, 22 Jun, 7.30pm, Nelson Centre of Musical Art. Performing 'Bach & Sons' with cello soloist Matthias Balzat. Tickets from NCMA box office or online ncma.nz.

GENERAL

DELIVERERS WANTED

Interested in fundraising for a club or social group?

Movie Afternoon: ‘POMS’, Mon, 17 Jun, 111pm, Age Concern Nelson Office. An uplifting comedy about a woman starting a cheerleading squad in a retirement village. Ph: 035447624 ext 0.

PHILOSOPHY GROUP Meet 2nd & 4th Mon of the month, 10am. Zumo Coffee House. All welcome. TXT Zoe 0279741758.

TUESDAY

WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ, Tues, 11, Jun, 1011.30am, Tapawera Community Centre. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities and services. www.wellby.org.nz. Ph: 035467681.

WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ, Tues, 11 Jun, 1.303pm, Richmond Library. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities, and services. www.wellby.org. nz. Ph: 035467681.

NELSON 50+ WALKING GROUP, Tues, 11 Jun. Lodestone -Grassy Saddle. Meet at 9.45am at Easby Park, Richmond. BYO lunch. Ph: Ann 021393361.

WAITAKI OLD GIRLS' SOCIAL GROUP. Fri, 7 Jun, 10am, Nelson Gold Course Café, Pop in for a coffee and chat. Queries Ph: 0276731145.

KIA KAHA KICKBOXING, 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.

AIKIDO Want to learn self-defence and become more confident? Do AIKIDO Japanese Martial Art. Children’s classes from 8 -16yrs Wed & Fri, 5 – 6pm. Check out www.aikidonelson.nz or Ph: Callum 0210694211.

CULTURAL SOCIAL ACTIVITIES Fri, 10-11am. Come along and share morning tea & a cuppa with Victory’s friendly multicultural roopu. Volunteer opportunities for all people to participate.

ART EXHIBITION. During May, Nelson Golf Club Café, 38 Bolt Rd, Tāhunanui. An amusing display of acrylic paintings by local artist Shirley Crampton. Her work features scenery, birds and some very imaginative fun. Open to the public daily.

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.

BIRDLIFE CENTRE OF NEW ZEALAND needs volunteer pest trappers in the Centre of NZ Reserve in Nelson city. No trapping experience needed, full training given. If you are interested, reasonably fit and can spare two hours a fortnight Ph: Gretchen 0212663867.

We are looking for individuals or groups to deliver our award winning newspapers. Our runs can be done individually or shared amongst a group, as the famous saying goes. “Many hands make light work”

For further details please email: deliveries@thedeliveryguy.co.nz THEN WE HAVE

SOUP & POETRY! Tues, 25 Jun, 12.30-2.30pm, Victory Community Church, 238 Vanguard St. Ph: Tracey-Lynn 035469057 or e: seniorcare.victory@ gmail.com. Lunch booking is essential!!! By Tues 18th please.

NELSON CREATIVE FIBRE GROUP Welcome you to friendly fibre craft meetings. Meet 2nd & 4th Tues each month. 9.30am, Nelson Golf Club, 38 Bolt Rd, Tāhunanui. Ph: Lesley 035765654. $2 for members, $4 for non-members.

BACKGAMMON NELSON Every 2nd Tues, 6pm, The Free House,95 Collingwood St, Nelson. All welcome. Ph: Tony 0220130384.

WEDNESDAY

MOVIE AFTERNOON: Wed, 12 Jun, 1-3pm, Age concern Hall, 62 Oxford St, Richmond. ‘Finding your Feet’, a British romantic comedy. Ph: 035447624 ext 5.

CAKE DECORATORS' next meeting, Wed, 19 Jun. We are creating gnomes in sugar paste. Come and give it a go. Ph: Desiree 0276302359.

CENTRAL GARDEN CLUB - Meet 2nd Wed of the month, 1.30pm. Methodist Church Hall, Neale Ave, Stoke. Guest Speakers and Afternoon tea. New members welcome. Ph: Bob or Lynn 035418468.

THURSDAY

WEEKLY PERSONAL GROWTH GROUP for Women. 6, 13, 20 & 27 Jun, 10-12.30pm. 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. NELSON LIONESS - Seeking new members to join our service club. We are very social and ac-

SENIORS 3D FLOW FITNESS: Mon & Fri, 1-2pm, Tāhunanui Community Hub. Seniors 3D Flow combines various exercises like dance, boxing, tai chi, and yoga to music, focusing on mobility, strength, and fun social interactions. Suitable for anyone willing to engage in 45 minutes of movement, with most activities performed standing, but including seated options. Ph: 021411700.

SATURDAY/SUNDAY

VARIETY ENTERTAINMENT CLUB of Nelson Concert, Sat, 8 Jun, 2pm, Stoke School Hall. All Welcome. Admission $5. Ph: Wayne 0272049772 | Robyn 035473231.

ARMCHAIR TRAVELLERS, Sat, 8 Jun, 7.30pm, Whakatu Presbyterian Church, Champion Rd. Jon & Vivienne Parkes present 'Wainwright Coast to Coast'. Walk across UK. Entry donations support Nelson Tasman Hospice. Supper.

THE 2024 REGISTERED MASTER BUILDERS APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR REGIONAL PRACTICAL CHALLENGE, Sat, 8 Jun, 9am, Carters, Nelson. Come along to see the top apprentices from across the Upper South go head-to-head in a two-hour practical skills test. Info: https://www. apprenticeoftheyear.co.nz/regionalpractical/

NELSON VETERANS’ TENNIS CLUB are holding Social Tennis, Sun, 9 Jun, 1pm. Ph: Leona 0210792370. Support your Club.

NELSON PHILATELIC SOCIETY MEETING, Sun, 9 Jun, Doors Open 1.30pm - Meeting 2pm, Stoke Baptist Church. Display from Guest SpeakerAndrew Gould on Postal History. Mitchener Cup - Letter “W”. Ph: Ross 035473554.

THE NELSON INSTITUTE PRESENTS Dr James Butler’s talk: “Transformation pathways for Pacific Islands and their food”. Sun, 9 Jun, 2pm, Nelson Public Library. Cost: $3.

MUSIC BY CANDLELIGHT, Sat, 15 Jun, 7-9.30pm, Nelson Cathedral. This very popular annual concert celebrates the joy of winter with a unique programme of musical performances under the gentle glow of candlelight. A specially

NELSON WOODTURNING CLUB. Join us at our club rooms for Turning, camaraderie and sharing of knowledge. New Learn to Turn classes starting soon. More Info TXT or Ph: Michael 0212098311. 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’.

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.

U3A – Interest groups and social activities for the over-55s. 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.

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP. Cancer Society Nelson, 102 Hardy St. If you have or have had breast cancer, come along to this friendly atmosphere. Reg Ph: 035391137 or e: info@cancernelson.org.nz.

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