Nelson Weekly - 6 September 2023

Habitat DIY shed opens

Page 4

Keiko strikes gold

Page 21

Battery bins to prevent landfill fires

dents but also safer by trying to keep the fire risks out of the landfill.

New bins are being developed locally in the hopes they will make battery recycling easier for resi-

The Nelson Tasman Regional Landfill Business Unit (NTRLBU), a joint committee of Nelson

Focusing on active seniors

KATE RUSSELL

A 92-year-old yoga enthusiast and 14 other active seniors from Nelson have been the focus of a local photography project which aims to inspire older adults to keep moving.

Chilean photographer Kat Beyle of Wiphala Studio, who has called Nelson home for the past three years, has created the project, which she has called ‘Metanoia’.

Kat says that her parents, who reside in Chile, were the inspiration behind bringing the project to life.

“Both retired, they struggle to find motivation for physical exercise. There are many reasons for this, including safety

SEE PAGE 4

City and Tasman District Councils responsible for the region’s landfills, is constructing three custom-made battery bins. “We want to make it easier for people to dispose of batteries in a

responsible way and are looking at ways that battery recycling can be made easier and more convenient for the public,” says Nathan Clarke, Nelson council’s general manager regional services.

It is hoped these bins could then be placed at key locations around the region to be collection points for people recycling lithium-ion

SEE PAGE 2

Photographer Kat Beyle is hoping to inspire and motivate older adults with her photographs of active seniors from Nelson.

Photo: Kate Russell.

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

News

Sara Hollyman sara@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Kate Russell kate@nelsonweekly.co.nz

Jack Malcolm jack@topsouthmedia.co.nz

Advertising Sales

Lauren Rameka-iti lauren@nelsonweekly.co.nz

Reuben Dudley reuben@nelsonweekly.co.nz

Battery bins developed to prevent landfill fires

FROM PAGE 1

batteries.

Lithium-ion batteries, found in personal electronic devices like smartphones, contain hazardous materials and can cause fires in rubbish and recycling trucks and landfills.

In the past year, there have been seven battery-related fires at the York Valley Landfill, down on more than 20 in the previous year – though none of the fires have been significant.

A battery fire at the Richmond Materials Recovery Facility in March 2022 also saw more than 10 tonnes of recycling get sent to the landfill while repairs were undertaken. Several measures have been undertaken to minimise the risk of battery fires at the landfill in recent years, including implementing a fire management plan, installing a

thermal imaging camera, and buying water tanks and a water cart complete with fire cannon to combat future fires. More than 3,300kg of e-waste, including batteries, has been diverted from the landfill over the

last 12 months through council-led e-waste recycling initiatives.

Given the risk posed by the batteries, the bins will need to be extensively tested after the prototypes are built.

The bins are being custom-built by the NTRLBU after a search for bins both nationally and internationally failed to find a product that believed to be safe for use in the community.

“We need to be sure that it won’t burn someone or damage surrounding property in the event that it does catch fire,” Nathan says.

It will also be important that the bin itself isn’t destroyed in a potential fire.

The bins are expected to be tested in November and will be subjected to a range of conditions, including battery fires and vandalism which will include having accelerants added to the bins.

Hunter Nelson City

Blincoe Tāhunanui

Lawrence Nelson South

Battery fires in the past have resulted in tonnes of recycling being sent to the landfill while repairs were undertaken. Photo: Smart Environmental. A 3D drawing of the battery bin.

Night closures for SH6 Whakatu Drive

MAX FRETHEY

Local Democracy Reporter

Whakatu Drive will close for up to ten nights from the middle of September to allow for “essential” maintenance works.

The State Highway, from Richmond’s McGlashen Ave to the Quarantine Rd roundabout, will be closed from 8pm to 5am each night between Sunday 17 and Friday 29 September except for Saturday 23 September.

The closure will allow asphalting work on the Link Road roundabout – which connects the Richmond Deviation and Whakatu Drive – and the Link Road which joins two roundabouts.

“We understand that closures can be disruptive,” says Rob Service, Waka Kotahi’s system manager – Top of the South. “We are minimising its impact as much as possible by carrying out this work in the evenings when there is less traffic on the State Highway.”

A daytime closure of the motorway was ruled out because of the significant traffic volume on that section of State Highway 6 – more than 20,000 vehicles a day, on average –

which would create massive congestion on local roads.

The last planned closure of Whakatu Drive for resurfacing on 5 and 6 November last year saw drivers delayed by several hours by congestion and was described by Nelson Mayor Nick Smith as “totally unacceptable”.

Extensive resources were needed to complete the resurfacing work last year within the time weekend and the agency says there would not have been enough time to complete the upcoming asphalting work in the same weekend.

A full closure is needed to allow room for the heavy machinery required for the work, Rob says.

“Closing the road is the safest option for both our contractors and the public. It also allows the work to be completed faster and more efficiently.”

The road will be open during the day but, at times, subject to with stop/go controls and a 30kmh speed limit.

Bad weather can cause asphalting work to be delayed and so extra time has been allowed for the works. If weather conditions are favourable, the work may be completed soon-

er than 29 September.

Contractors will also repair damaged guardrails and wire barriers, fix damaged signs, clear weeds and overgrown vegetation, and carry out other general maintenance during the closure.

“Whakatu Drive is a crucial infrastructure link for Nelson and Tasman,” Rob says. “Regular maintenance like this is the best way to avoid substantial repairs, which can potentially have a bigger impact on road users.”

The detour for all traffic, including heavy vehicles, runs from Annesbrook Drive, along Main Road Stoke and Salisbury Road, before travelling down Talbot Street and McGlashen Avenue, and is expected to add up to eight minutes to travel time. Rob urges drivers to plan ahead and adjust their travel accordingly. The shared path next to the highway will remain open, as will the Quarantine Rd roundabout so drivers can access Nelson Airport and Nayland Rd.

A ‘win-win’ DIY shop for the community

KATE RUSSELL

A new shop in Tāhunanui is helping to reduce the amount of building material going to landfill, all while encouraging locals to have a crack at their own DIY projects.

Habitat for Humanity Nelson officially opened its brand-new Building and DIY Supplies shop on Friday next to the Habitat Hub on Tāhunanui Dr.

The shop is a place locals can come for their DIY projects. You’ll find everything from hardware, plumbing, and bathroom supplies to tools, electrical lighting, flooring, and windows.

But, it’s also a place where builders can donate unwanted supplies and tools, or excess materials, that would otherwise be thrown away.

“Construction and demolition waste is a huge contributor to landfill, with some estimating that up to 50 per cent of all waste produced in New Zealand comes from these activities,” says Nick

Clarke, general manager for Habitat Nelson.

“Builders can end up with part

products left over, and it’s very difficult for them to push them into the next project. This pro-

Focusing on active seniors

FROM PAGE 1

concerns and lack of access to green space - and there are thousands of people in the same situation.

She says that when she moved to Nelson, she was taken aback by how active Nelson seniors are compared to in Chile.

“I would see people walking their dogs … people out being active. I went hiking, and there were people in their 70s doing the long trails.”

Out of the 15 individuals Kat photographed, two were 92, and two were 90.

“They have become ambassa-

dors, sending a message to others who need motivation. They also feel valued and recognised, a part of something,” says Kat.

One of the women she photographed was 92-year-old Gwen Struik.

“She does yoga every day and then goes up The Grampians, and also bikes. For me, that’s a bit of a wake-up call.”

Others have been photographed doing Tai Chi, running, boxing, dancing, and kitesurfing.

“Each image conveys the vitality and energy that these individuals demonstrate, despite their age.”

Kat says she wants to “break negative stereotypes” and motivate other older adults to adopt an active and healthy lifestyle.

“I want to demonstrate that aging does not have to limit physical abilities and that physical activity can have a positive impact on the quality of life for older individuals.”

The photographs will be used to create an exhibition that will be displayed in community venues, elderly care centres, and health and wellness-related events in Nelson.

She then plans to do the same in Chile, and then find 15 active seniors there to photograph.

vides an option, because we have a lot of home DIYers and handy people who want to do stuff.

Old window frames can become glasshouses or go into baches.” All the funds raised from the shop will help Habitat Nelson build more affordable homes for locals.

“If we can help the community to re-use and recycle some of those materials while at the same time raise funds to build more homes, then we see that as a win-win for the community,” says Nick. Habitat for Humanity has been a leading provider of affordable housing in the region for the last 30 years, with partner families receiving keys to their homes in their latest development of 14 homes in Stoke in June.

The organisation has plans for many more homes in the region and funds raised from the sale of second-hand goods through its ReStores are central to this important mahi.

Nick says the new shop has been made possible with support from NBS, Rātā Foundation, OneFortyOne, Mainland Foundation, and others in the community.

Nelson ReStore Manager, Liz Davies, and general manager for Habitat Nelson, Nick Clarke, outside their new DIY shop. Photos: Kate Russell.

Nelson’s Gwen Struik, 92 years old, was one of the active seniors Kat photographed as part of her project. Photo: Kat Beyle.

Nelson floods: Government agrees to buyout deal with council

SAMANTHA GEE RNZ

A year on from the disastrous Nelson floods, owners of wrecked, unliveable homes are now being offered a buyout deal similar to the one for Cyclone Gabrielle victims.

Nelson City Council has identified 14 households where the landslide risk was too high for people to return to their homes, but too expensive to fix. Cyclone Recovery Minister Grant Robertson says the government had agreed to contribute 50 per cent of the total cost of the buyout, around $6 million, with the council asked to pick up the other half.

The government had also offered further financial support to the dozens of families whose homes were yellow-stickered and who remained in acute hardship, paying both rent and a mortgage.

Geoff Moffett’s home was red-stickered during the heavy rain, deemed unsafe to return to after tonnes of debris inundated properties. He previously told RNZ that he and his partner felt they were in the same position as many people after Cyclone Gabrielle, with a home that was not safe to live in and remediation work that was unaffordable.

He says the news that the government were willing to strike a buyout deal with the Nelson City Council was amazing.

“We are absolutely stunned and overwhelmed. With the announcement in the North Island about relief for flood victims of [Cyclone] Gabrielle and the Auckland anniversary storms - and we don’t begrudge them at all, in fact we think it’s fantastic - but we’ve always felt that Nelson deserved to be treated as fairly by the government,” Geoff told Morning Report.

Down the road, Andy Kenton, whose home was also red-stickered, says he was waiting to hear what the council had to say about the matter, but that the announcement was encouraging after what had been a difficult year with very little communication.

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith says the council had been clear that it could not afford to buy out affected properties without support and he wrote to the government in July, seeking financial assistance. NCC will vote on whether to meet the remaining 50 per cent of the buyout costs at its next meet-

ing on 14 September, but Nick says he is confident.

“It is true that that is a hit for the ratepayer, but frankly, I see no other way out and so I am confident I’ll be able to persuade my council colleagues for support.”

He says the announcement would provide relief to the small number of families who had been in limbo land for the last year.

“I’m a bit frustrated that it has taken the length that it has, but I’m actually just relieved that we have now got a pathway forward for the full recovery from our storm last August.”

Nelson MP Rachel Boyack says affected residents had been calling on the government for some time for certainty, and the announcement would enable them to move forward.

“A number of members of the community in Nelson have moved on from the floods, but there are a small group of people who haven’t been able to and it has been a big piece of work between the council and the government to look at what is needed on the ground.”

She acknowledged it had been a long wait for many residents to get answers.

“Things have moved a lot quicker than in previous events, but I absolutely acknowledge that for people, a year is an extraordinarily long time and we want to keep working to make sure we can work through these processes in the future, as fast as we possibly can.”

Part of the challenge had been assessing what was needed and geotech reports on some of the properties had only recently been received, she told

Morning Report.

“The information has ebbed and flowed a bit. At times we’ve been told it was only going to be one or two properties that might need a buyout, so what we’ve had to do is make sure we had that full information.”

She says she is grateful to the officials and elected members who had worked hard to find a solution, but also to the members of the community who had been vocal about their needs, which had helped to put this package together.

Andy and Simone Kenton’s home was red-stickered, deemed not safe to live in due to landslide risk.

“We have a property that’s probably got a valuation of about $1.35m, and yet to remove the risk by doing the repair on the bank needed for red placard removal was going to cost about $4.5m to shotcrete the wall and pin it at the top and that just wasn’t viable.”

They have received a payout of less than $300,000 from insurance and EQC, which was not enough to buy another home with. They had been hopeful of government support - but news of the buyout deal still came as a surprise.

Andy says insurance and EQC covered damage to property but not risk to it, and the legislation needed to change to reflect that.

“Most people pay their insurance and their EQC levies as part of that, and go about their business thinking they are covered for all eventualities when in actual fact, you aren’t, and you don’t find that out until well into the process.”

Geoff hoped their home was among those 14 that are eligible for a buyout.

Julie Ambrose and Geoff Moffett with the exposed slope behind their home. Photo: Samantha Gee.

A lifetime of giving lives on in new Ara | Te Pūkenga scholarship

STAFF REPORTER

A woman who has been remembered for spending a “lifetime striving to expand her mind”, will live on in the form of a new scholarship helping the region’s women do the same.

Annie Currie - a trained nurse, psychotherapist and creative - had a sense of adventure and an infectious joy for life described as rare. She passed away in 2021 from a long illness after a lifetime of striving to expand her mind and encouraging others to do the same. Her warm and generous spirit will live on in a new scholarship offering for women studying at Ara | Te Pūkenga.

Annie Currie Legacy Fund trustee Chris Turton said Annie’s wishes were to “help young women to educate themselves and to preserve and protect natural environments.”

“Annie had strong values around education, sustainability, creativity, spirituality, and helping others,” Chris added. “While deeply

creative, her paintings and pottery were quirky and full of whimsy. Her joy was in the doing and the being and in seeing delight in others.”

Annie grew up in Dunedin, educated herself as a nurse in Christchurch and worked in Burwood hospital’s burns unit early in her career before going on to tutor in nursing. Later, while living in Nelson, she discovered psychodrama and committed herself to personal development. She went on to qualify as a psychodramatist and become a registered psychotherapist.

“Over the years, Annie helped people from all walks of life with counselling and personal and professional development courses,” Chris says. “She especially saw the need to help young women improve themselves and to break through barriers and traumas that their upbringing may have put them through.”

The Ara | Te Pūkenga Annie Currie scholarship is open to women who have completed at least one year of a bachelor level qualification

in applied sciences, medical imaging, musculoskeletal health, midwifery or nursing

“We are delighted to see this new scholarship offering for students in these areas of study from such an inspiring benefactor. I’m sure many women will seek this out as they navigate their degree or post graduate study,” says applied sciences and social practice head of department, Dr Michael Shone.

Chris added it was an honour to distribute the funds.

“Annie would simply say ‘use it well, keep on doing your good work and keep developing yourself’. This new Ara scholarship for women underway, with degree level study in health, is a perfect fit.”

Eligible ākonga (students) must demonstrate financial hardship in their application for the $10,000 offering. Applications are open for the month of September with full eligibility and application details found in the scholarship section of ara.ac.nz website.

Annie Currie’s legacy will live on, helping women complete tertiary education.

Photo: Supplied.

Art festival returns with bumper line-up

GORDON PREECE

Drawn up plans for this year’s Nelson Arts Festival have been unveiled.

The annual festival, which will adorn the city between October 19 and 29, will feature 53 different events including theatre, dance, comedy, music, poetry, visual art, literary talks, and cultural conversations.

Executive and artistic director Lydia Zanetti says the whole team are “really excited” to display the many artworks that have been created by the 200 local, national and international designers, and build on last year’s success.

“It was so well received last year, it was really exciting, and we’re looking forward to having that experience again this year,” Lydia says. “We’re keen to get audiences experiencing different kinds of works they wouldn’t get to experience in other times of the year and to meet different artists… and allow our communities to come together and connect, have conversation, and get to know their neighbours, that’s our main driver.”

The festival will see the return of the Mask Carnivale to the CBD on 27 October after a three-year hiatus.

Lydia says, the festival will once again offer a pay-what-you-can ticketing model, where audiences can choose between five price points per ticket.

They hope this year’s “accessible” model will draw in a larger audience.

Lydia says, some of the main attractions that will embellish this year’s festival include NZTrio and friends presenting chamber music and taonga pūoro to celebrate Forest & Bird’s centenary at Nelson Centre of Musical Arts on October 23.

This event soared to sell out seasons at this year’s Auckland Arts Festival and Festival of Colour in Wānaka.

Lydia says the festival will also inflate Wellington-based artist Elisabeth Pointon’s seven metre inflatable monolith at Nelson Airport.

This artwork promises to spearhead a fantastic visual arts programme which also features the work of neurodiverse Whanganui-based artist Bailee Lobb, whose giant textile bubbles and live sleeping performance installation will soothe the senses.

Visit www.nelsonartsfestival.nz for the full festival line-up.

Lydia Zanetti, centre, and festival trustees Sarah Yarrow, left, and Cynthia Greep at the festival’s programme launch. Photo: Gordon Preece.

Climate change challenges for wastewater treatment

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

The effects of climate change are now impacting on Nelson-Tasman’s wastewater treatment facility on Bell Island, with new land needing to be found for its longterm viability.

One of the immediate concerns for the facility – which serves Nelson City and Tasman communities as far as Wakefield and Māpua – is it being inundated with excess wastewater during major rainfall events.

Climate change increases the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.

There were two periods during the 2022/23 financial year when inflows exceeded the treatment plant’s discharge capacity and extensions to its discharge duration were requested until the wastewater level was reduced to a manageable level.

“It’s front of mind, and something we have on our programmes,” says Alec Louverdis, Nelson City Council’s group manager infrastructure.

“We got hammered in August [2022], we had May again, three weeks ago we had another intensive rainfall event. This is just going to be the norm, and until

such time as we get on top of this, those flows will be what they are, unfortunately.”

Nathan Clarke, the council’s general manager regional services, adds that the inundation would have infrastructural implications and could impact resource consents.

“There’s a bunch of work that we’ve got to do around that.”

The threat of sea-level rise is also a concern for the wastewater

treatment facility which operates on the low-lying Bell Island in the Waimea Inlet.

While the facility is thought to be able to be used until at least 2080, the Nelson Regional Sewerage Business Unit (NRSBU) is proposing that money is allocated for the purchase and designation of land for a future wastewater treatment plant in the 2033/34 financial year.

“At some stage we have to bite

that bullet,” says business unit chair and Tasman District councillor Kit Maling.

“The longer you leave it, the harder it is to find a suitable piece of land.”

Tasman council’s waters and waste manager Mike Schruer agrees that acquiring land sooner rather than later was “prudent”.

“We’ve already got two treatment plants that will no longer be upgraded on their current sites,” he

says.

“We are finding it extremely difficult to find suitable land for that.”

A sea defence bund is being constructed in the meantime to help protect the treatment plant. Several pump stations are also at risk from sea-level rise in the future.

The matter of a land purchase will come before the Tasman District and Nelson City Councils when the NRSBU presents its draft activity management plan for 20242034 and both councils will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the plan.

The responsibility for wastewater management is slated to eventually be removed from councils, and so from the NRSBU, and given to a new water services entity as part of the Government’s Affordable Waters reform. But Kit says it’s still a good idea to document and plan for future challenges.

“You should signal it so that whoever takes over the responsibility of this going forward is aware that these are the issues that we’re facing.”

Meet The Wāhine Making a Difference...

I organise the majority of the sport at Nelson College - approximately 700 boys across 30 different sports.

Life skills are learned on the pitch or the court, friendships are forged and characters emerge. We teach so much more than sport. I love being part of our boys’ journey and seeing them go on to do amazing things as adults.

I am a bicultural and bilingual Spanish New Zealander with a background in Science and second language acquisition.

I work with former refugees, migrants and international students. I hope to help boys understand more than one worldview and gain a sense of pride in themselves and their own unique culture.

Originally from Wales, I have worked in schools in the UK, Singapore and New Zealand. Being a female leader in a boys school provides a unique perspective.

I hope to support a school environment that values being male, while encouraging each students’ unique traits and passions to help them find their place in the world.

My role involves supporting boys to unpack their values, strengths and interests. I help them make decisions that inform those first steps after Nelson College.

Because you can’t be what you can’t see, I offer opportunities and experiences to help students discover what sparks the light inside them.

Kei ngā iwi o Te Tauihu, tēnei a Mātaatua waka te whakamihi atu nei. I work in the new Māori Medium Year 9 class which enriches the curriculum through a Māori lens.

I am committed to growing boys’ potential to achieve through authentic reo learning experiences such as mau rākau and performing arts, and education outside the classroom.

Alethea Stove Director of Sport

Cristina Armstrong ESOL Faculty Leader & Refugee Coordinator

Leonor White Deputy Principal & Maths Teacher

Vivienne Ruwhiu Māori Immersion Teacher

Vikki Heays HOD Careers Guidance

The wastewater treatment plant on Bell Island is facing both immediate and long-term challenges exacerbated by climate change. Photo: Supplied/NRSBU. Insert: Alec Louverdis. Photo: Supplied.

Codey and Matthew Kerr Jason Irons and Matthew Ferris Jonty Allam, 7, and Benji Waters, 7 Lois Burland, Pete Burland, Ngaire Sharpe and Rachel Waide Zoe Aberhart and Ursula Hubbard

Colin Bass and Grant Palliser Emily Sanson, Alyahna Sanson-Rejouis (Imani-J) and Tony Bustolee

Esmé Palliser, Anne Rush and Mel Courtney

Kyla Mackenzie and Pic Picot Shawn and Claire Scott

9 10

Tasman Mako vs Manawatu Turbos

Nelson Arts Festival launch

Electric vehicles clocking up in Top South

GORDON PREECE

Local drivers who have converted to electric vehicles say the minimal impact on their finances and the environment prompted them to press the start button.

Tasman resident Peter Hong, who shifted to the area from Canberra with his wife in 2017, has owned a Kia EV6 since August last year, having previously driven a Volkswagen Touareg with a diesel engine.

He says, while he misses the “throb” of a V8, his new EV is cost-effective to operate and it has a minimal environmental impact.

“We came here on the basis that the climate was kinder than Canberra… it’s a beautiful country, so our thinking was that we should minimise anything that harms the climate or the landscape that we’ve come to enjoy,” he says. “Every drop of fuel that we would buy in New Zealand, whether it’s diesel or petrol, is imported, so what we have to learn as a nation is everything you import, adds to the national deficit.

“The second part was the numbers actually make sense… two weeks ago we had our first service on the Kia and I’m used to somewhere between $900 and $1500 service bills. It cost $72.90 to service the Kia.”

EVDB, which is a data-driven website combining insights from real-world experience in EV ownership, says the market share of electric vehicle registrations in the Nelson and Tasman region are above the national average.

“In 2022, market share of electric vehicle registrations was 11.4 per cent of all light vehicles, this has increased to 13.8 per cent in 2023 so far,” a spokesperson says.

“This is above the national average market share which is currently 11.6 per cent. However, when we drill down into new car registrations, the share is even higher, 29 per cent.

“This means, when buyers purchased a new car almost one in three were choosing either a battery electric vehicle, or plug-in hybrid. Again, this is well above the national average of 22 per cent.”

EVDB says the reasons for the gaining electric vehicle sales was “hard to tell”, but based on its figures of the more than 800 new passenger cars registered this year, there was a “willingness” from EV purchasers to embrace newer, lower-emission vehicle technology.

“In the Nelson and Tasman region, that’s ahead of other parts of the country,” it says. Peter says he and his wife mostly use their Kia EV6 for

Tongan vernacular for Nelson-Tasman

GORDON PREECE

The community has been encouraged to board the Tongan Language Week vaka in Nelson and Tasman this week to gain a deeper understanding of its language, culture, and history.

Kainga Tonga Nelson Tasman Community Trust chairperson Pita ‘Akau’ola says the initiative was about getting more people using the language in their everyday activities and flying the Tongan flag to demonstrate their identity.

Members of the Nelson and Tasman Tongan community opened the language week at Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre on 3 September.

Sessions for the Nelson, Waimea and Motueka public to say Mālō e lelei [hello] to the language and be immersed in Tongan culture, will take place until 9 September. Events include a Tongan language class at NMIT Kowhai Lounge on 7 September and a roller disco at Motueka Recreation Centre on 9 September.

short trips around their local area and the average cost to recharge it is only two dollars, which is made possible by their solar panels. He says improved infrastructure could accelerate EV converter numbers.

“We hear a lot about infrastructure in the South Island, it takes forever to get a charger built and then they’re very unreliable… it seems to take one or two weeks before something that’s gone wrong is repaired… they need to get their act together, in my opinion,” he says.

“I think it’s also a transition period from people having that fear of buying an electric vehicle and not getting enough mileage.

“Not being able to travel to Blenheim, for example, and then get back home on a single charge because if they get to Blenheim and the public charger is down, what do they do to get home?”

Richmond resident Kevin Parkes has also discovered the economic benefits since purchasing a second-hand Tesla Model 3 about five months ago. He says his new electric vehicle is parked alongside his XF Jaguar.

“I think it cost me about six dollars a week to run [the Tesla Model 3] back and forwards to work and then a bit of running around the weekend.”

Rachel Boyack for Nelson

Last week the Government announced a further package of support for Nelson following the August 2022 floods We have a small number of households who won’t be able to return to their homes, or who require further accommodation support while their homes are repaired.

The Government will enter a 50/50 buyout with Nelson City Council for a small number of properties and will provide accommodation assistance to those who can’t return home yet The Government will also provide financial support to Nelson City Council for remediation to landslips that impacted on private property My thanks to Nelson City Council, Mayor Nick Smith and the affected households who worked with the Government to put this package together It’s another important step in Nelson’s recovery from last year’s devastating floods

On Saturday I attended Labour’s campaign launch in Auckland, where Labour Leader Chris Hipkins announced that a re-elected Labour Government will begin New Zealand’s journey to universal dental care by expanding free basic dental care to nearly 800,000 under 30-year-olds

Everyone should be able to access dental care when they need it, without worrying about the bill, but at the moment they can’t In 2022 alone, 1 5 million Kiwis didn’t visit a dentist because it was just too expensive Extending free basic dental care is a huge move and one which will ultimately benefit all New Zealanders

Tasman resident Peter Hong says owning an EV had become a “no-brainer”. Photo: Gordon Preece.

Members of the Nelson and Tasman Tongan community at the local Tongan Language Week opening. Photo: Gordon Preece.

‘Friend’ makes intensification plan submissions easier

It’s horrific what is being planned. Ex isting residential properties in parts of Nelson central, Tāhunanui and `stoke can have 6-storey high apartments built one metre from their boundary with no concern for noise, parking, privacy, sunlight. Imagine someone 3-storeys up looking into your property. Gen eral is two-storeys, medium density is three-storeys, high density is 6-storeys. This will affect existing residential own ers in our region. No change in infra structure such as schools, waste, park ing, fresh water (we do have restrictions most summers). Yet potential for bulk housing without any change in infra structure.

Diane Chandler

People need to be made aware of the drastic changes being planned in Plan 29. It will have hugely negative effect on thousands of properties.

Warwick Rogers

Victory chess students headed for nationals

Well done to all the students and teach-

ers. A massive effort with a very com petitive game.

Anne Smith

Newly retired gents sought

Love this.

Aimee Miller

It is a great club. I can recommend it

Nelson Matters

Hon Dr Nick Smith

STORM RECOVERY SUPPORT WELCOMED

The most challenging work of my first nine months as Mayor has been dealing with the aftermath of last August’s storm. My goals have been to support the affected families, get the infrastructure repaired and to build back better so Nelson is more able to withstand future events. I have been pushing to advance this work as quickly as possible but also trying to keep the costs manageable for ratepayers.

any retired bloke.

Ian Christison

Sublime with Rome announce Nelson show

I’ve seen them before but that’ll be minta in Nelson!

Greg de Wagt

What’s On!

Summit League Table Tennis Finals

8 September, Saxton Table Tennis Stadium

Come and support your college team fight out the finals of the Summit league. Free Entry.

Illuminate Light & Sound

Experience Nelson 2023

Friday 8 – Sunday 10 September | Friday 15 – Sunday 17 September, Founders Heritage Park

Take a stroll around the park. Enjoy the lights and sounds while grabbing a few photos along the way! Tickets $12 from Eventbrite.

Hira School Fair - Valley to View

Sunday, 10 September, 10am – 3pm

Cable Bay Adventure Park

There will be fair games, bouncy castles, mountain biking, and much more. Come down, listen to come music, enjoy a sausage sizzle or a piece of cake and have a lot of family fun at the fabulous Cable Bay Adventure Park. Entry is a gold coin donation. All welcome to the school fair with a difference!

All Welcome

I have been frustrated at the level of support from Government. It was quite unfair that support was being provided to those affected by Cyclone Gabrielle and the Auckland floods but not Nelson. So, it was welcome news last week that the Government accepted our arguments and has agreed to provide more than $12.3 million in support.

We have families in crisis as a consequence of the mortgage costs on their damaged home going through the roof and their insurance for alternative housing running out, leaving them also facing the high cost of rent in Nelson’s tight market. They will now be able to receive an accommodation allowance from Government on the same terms as North Islanders.

We also now have 50% support for dealing with those properties where the cost of fixing them is more than they are worth. Ratepayers could not afford the buyouts without Government’s $6 million of support. These families were in limbo but we now have a way forward.

I am also pleased the Government has agreed to help Council with 50% of the betterment portion of fixing the 18 landslides on Council-owned land. This $6 million had previously been declined. Government should contribute as the improved resilience saves future costs for Government as well as Council and our community.

Nelson has an ongoing challenge of managing NZ’s largest urban landslide, the Tāhunanui Slump, with 120 homes of which 45 suffered damage last August. I was frustrated that Government was not supporting ongoing geotechnical monitoring of this landslide and welcome the $300,000 funding to ensure this occurs. Council still faces a huge bill of more than $50 million from the storm, but this deal offers ratepayers some relief and a path forward for the worst affected families.

MAYOR OF NELSON

Student bands rock this town

GORDON PREECE

Nelson schools claimed a slew of awards at the regional Rockshop Bandquest competition last week.

Waimea Intermediate band, Tempo, took out the competition with its “outstanding performance” that captivated both judges and audiences alike with Broadgreen Intermediate band, Ahurei, and St Joseph’s School band, Obsidian, tuning second and third.

Broadgreen Intermediate’s Ahurei also took home awards for best keyboard player and its member Tiahomairangi Manawa-Pounamu Tawha also won best vocalist.

Rivalling Broadgreen Intermediate band, Those Fellas Over There, amped the rockstar styles award.

Nelson Intermediate bands picked up two awards; the saxophone player from Triple SSS winning the musicianship award and band member Seiji claiming the rock-solid bassist award.

The competition featured a symphony of local primary and intermediate school-aged rockstars at the Theatre Royal

in Nelson on August 28 and a volume of 11 trophies were presented for the first time by the Wright Family Foundation.

Tempo drummer Harvey Connor also pounded the rocking drummer award and another

Waimea Intermediate band, Exhale, left the stage with the ‘Killer’ guitarist award.

Competition judge Reece Milton says “it was an absolute pleasure” to be on the rock n roll train.

“There were so many talented bands that performed which made it challenging as a judge. It’s great to see so many young people still passionate and performing music.

There were 15 local bands that took to the stage.

“Everyone that performed has a bright future in New Zealand music.”

Co-founder and Director Glenn Common says the bandquest was a “fantastic opportunity” for little rockers.

“The bands must work together, each playing their part to achieve a shared goal, developing not only their musical and performance skills but also their teamwork, communication, and leadership abilities.”

Tempo will now rock their hearts out for a video performance entry in The Rockshop Bandquest national final, which is held online.

The results will be released on September 21.

Space 57 57 *Trend Nickel leather, Black wood Space 57 57W *Trend Tuxedo leather, Oak Nature wood

Anne Russell from Broadgreen Intermediate’s band Ahurei, which took home prizes for best keyboard player and vocalist in the regional Rockshop Bandquest. Photo: Joseph Harrison.

Arts

Nelson at your fingertips

Theatre invites you behind the scenes for open day

KATE RUSSELL

Nelson’s Theatre Royal is throwing open its doors this weekend to give the community a chance to step behind the scenes of the 145-year-old building.

Manager Eliane Polack says their annual open day allows people to find out about the ins and outs of how a theatre works, including the fly tower, and to understand what is involved to make a production come to life.

“For those who want to take their turn in the limelight, they can experience the view that actors have from the stage,” she says. “There will also be the chance to dress up and make use of a dressing room photo booth.”

You can even take a peek in the ceiling space, where the ‘theatre ghost’ is said to reside.

Eliane says people can learn how their current operating systems work and compare them to some of the original equipment that was used at the theatre before its refurbishment, which was completed in 2009.

“It is also the perfect opportunity to find out about our technical training programmes, as well as how to become a volunteer usher.”

People will also be able to try out the hearing assistance system, which enables people with hearing problems to hear everything that runs through the PA system.

Eliane says that it works by sound being transmitted via

WiFi through an app, directly to hearing aids or to headphones.

“You can try it by downloading the free app on your smartphone. You will be able to hear what others can’t.”

Built in 1878, The Theatre Royal is believed to be the oldest surviving and operating wooden theatre in Australasia, and possibly in the southern hemisphere. It is also one of the busiest.

The theatre hosts a variety of national and international touring companies, but it is also a community theatre and is used by a great number of performing arts groups and schools.

The open day is on at the theatre this Sunday, 10 September, from 11am - 2pm.

Civic Choir’s ‘Choral Peace’

“Beautifully captivating” choral music which explores peace themes are staged to serenade Nelson Cathedral audiences. The Nelson Civic Choir and music director, Jason Balla, will present Choral Peace at the central city landmark on 16 and 17 September.

Event spokesperson Jill Seeney

says the choir’s performance will include excerpts of ‘The Peacemakers’ by Welsh composer Sir Karl Jenkins, which uses texts by peace activists like Martin Luther King Jr, Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa and Anne Frank.

The programme will also in-

clude well-known pieces such as the moving theme from Schindler’s List and ‘Lord is My Shepherd’ theme from The Vicar of Dibley. Tickets for Choral Peace can be secured from the Nelson Centre of Musical Arts (NCMA) office on Nile St, the NCMA website and through choir members.

Theatre Royal manager, Eliane Polack, with theatre staff Jasmine Turner and Amanda Raine.

Photo: Kate Russell.

YOUR HOME AND GARDEN Guide

Jennian Homes Nelson Bays

YOUR HOME AND GARDEN Guide

Cutting-edge solar installations with Rowan Dron

Electrical

Rowan Dron Electrical stands as a beacon of innovation and commitment to customer satisfaction. Specialising in tailormade solar installations, the company has set itself apart by offering bespoke energy solutions that address the unique needs of each home.

Led by the dedicated owner, Rowan Dron, the team at Rowan Dron Electrical comprises of fully registered and certified electricians and qualified solar installers, united by their passion for energy efficiency and cutting-edge technology. With recent weather events putting a spotlight on the importance of backup electricity options, particularly in the context of solar power, Rowan and his team have become a soughtafter source of information and solutions.

“Now is a great time to install,” says Rowan.

“With the introduction of 1% or 0% renewable energy loans, homeowners can now embrace a range of sustainable upgrades to their property.

“We are happy to provide a no-obligation FREE onsite assessment and will put together a free quotation based on the correct system for your site and your power needs. Because we are electricians, we can advise on ways to maximise the savings from your system.”

What truly sets Rowan Dron Electrical apart is their dedication to crafting unique solar solutions for each client. “Our main focus is our ability to create bespoke solar systems for each client. No two systems are the same, as are no two homes, or their needs. The difference

between what we offer, and what others in the industry do, is that each system is specifically tailormade to each homes individual needs and purpose.”

The company’s dedication to solar, micro, hydro, and wind systems, makes them a significant player in the off-grid energy sector. However, it’s their commitment to quality that truly shines.

“We are not tied to any manufacturer, therefore we only use the highest quality gear for each and every install. We know we might not be the cheapest option, but we can guarantee that our systems will outperform and outshine others in the market. With us, and combined with the renewable energy loans, you can own what is installed within as little as four years.

There is a lot of predatory com-

panies that lure people in with long term rentals and zero deposits. But the client is beholden to that company for a very long time.”

The team’s commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction is a testament to their position as one of New Zealand’s most repu-

SOLAR PANELS, START SAVING WITH SUNSHINE

• Specialising in tailor-made solar installations

• Registered and certified electricians and qualified solar installers

• Providing a no-obligation FREE onsite assessment and quote

• Commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction

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

Locally owned and operated, offering residential and commercial electrical work, solar installation, smart ventilation and KNX smart control.

P. 03 542 2328 | E. admin@rdelectrical.co.nz rdelectrical.co.nz

table and enduring energysolution providers. Offering residential and commercial electrical work, solar installation, smart ventilation and KNX smart control, get in touch with the trusted professionals on 03 542 2328 or email admin@rdelectrical.co.nz for more information.

Brent Kilpatrick and Rowan Dron

HOME AND GARDEN Guide

Safe, Innovative and affordable benchtops by Trends Kitchens

Walking into a Trends Kitchen showroom typically stirs a reaction in visitors. Awe quickly turns into excitement - it’s fortunate that their talented and experienced design team are on hand to steer the ship toward each visitor’s individual goals.

The Trends team have accomplished an impressive feat. Establishing a space that contains a range of ideas, serving different functions and styles, but seamlessly melding these together to create a room full of stunning kitchens and home joinery options. We spent some time with the design team to see their leading advice, and here’s what they had to share.

“Renovations have seen a surge in the past few months, with customers hoping to achieve the latest trends in their new kitchens. Visual elements such as textured panelling, height and depth variation, statement metals, and natural finishes with earthy or organic tones have made their way into many customers’ wish lists. Function-wise, multi-purpose kitchen spaces, socially-orientated layouts, integrated appliances, crea-

tive cabinetry solutions and userspecific storage spaces are key features that have cemented their place in thoughtful design and custom manufacturing. There is understandably a focus on ecofriendly, non-toxic surfaces in the industry at present, and our clients are becoming more considerate of the materials they are investing in.

TriStone benchtops are a popular choice, being BPA and silica-free, and providing customers with a range of design freedoms with clever design styles and a large range of colours. Open-plan living is a key feature of today’s homes, so it is vital to consider how your kitchen finishes will impact the surrounding spaces. When viewed as a whole, you want a cohesive flow with elements that form a connection throughout your home, avoiding a dominat-

ing feel from one space. Because of our leading manufacturing capabilities, we are able to create joinery for a multitude of spaces in a home, from laundry, shelving units and wardrobes to built-in office spaces. Incorporating the chosen design details throughout these areas in your home is a way to achieve this and to lift the quality of the finish.”

Whether you are building new or renovating, Trends welcome you to visit their five showrooms across New Zealand. With teams available in Auckland, Cromwell, Nelson, Blenheim, and Christchurch, they are well-resourced to help homeowners with the very important project of designing their new kitchen and home joinery spaces.

To book your consultation, see www.trendskitchens.co.nz or call 03 343 5242.

YOUR HOME AND GARDEN Guide

Preparing your garden for Spring

We’re so excited that spring is just around the corner! Longer, warmer days mean more time in the garden and who doesn’t love that? Now is the perfect time to start preparing for the busiest gardening season of the year so put on your gumboots and get stuck in. Here are our top 10 tips for preparing your garden for spring:

1. MAKE A PLAN

Think about your goals in the garden before you get started. You may want to add a vegetable patch, put out additional containers or plants, or improve the design of an area. Think about what you did last year. For example, what perennials need to be divided this year so there is more space between them? Make a checklist of everything you would like to get completed.

2. CLEAR YOUR LAWN AND GARDEN

Rake the leaves off the lawn and clear the dead perennials and

debris from your garden. Add these to your compost heap.

3. SET UP YOUR COMPOSTING AREA

If you’re not composting yet, now is the time to set yourself up for one of the best things you can do as a gardener. Compost is the black gold of the gardener’s world and is a great way to use up food and garden scraps. You’ll be using that waste instead of dumping it in the rubbish, you’ll be saving money, and your garden will love it!

4. WEED

Weed while topsoil is still damp, not because it’s easier, but to get to the weeds before they seed other parts of your garden and lawn. Do not add weeds to your compost though, because then you’ll just be re-feeding the weeds back into your garden!

5. PREP YOUR PERENNIALS

If you didn’t already do so in autumn, prune your perennials

as soon as you see new growth to keep the plant on its seasonal cycle. Also prune those plants that will only bud on new growth. Cutting the dead stems will bring it out of its dormant stage.

6. MULCH!

When you’ve noticed your soil’s warmed and dried up a bit, that’s the time to add mulch. Mulch is like a multivitamin for your garden. You can live without it, but everything blossoms better and has more vitality with mulch. It not only conserves water, but cools plant roots, feeds the soil and smothers weeds.

7. DIVIDE AND TRANSPLANT

Now is the time to divide and transplant any plants you plan on transporting or turning into

seedlings. Early in the growth cycle, plants can tolerate much more distress and recover faster than later in the season.

8. STAKE YOUR PLANTS

It may not be pretty, but it’s much easier to stake plants now when they’ve begun to grow rather than trying to wrestle them onto stakes later when they’re larger and more mature.

9. TRIM THE EDGES

An often overlooked step, edging your garden is like a trim between haircuts. It just makes things look much more polished and put together. A good edge, especially on borders and between flower beds and lawn, is that finishing touch that will elevate your garden’s look and appeal.

10. GET YOUR TOOLS AND POTTING AREA READY

Claim a corner in the garage, workshop, or patio as your own. Pull out that old, dusty table from the attic or spare bedroom. Give it a bright, cheery coat of paint on a sunny day, set it up, and you’ve got a brand-new potting area ready!

Next, find all those garden tools and get them ready for springtime use by scrubbing them down with something a bit abrasive (a Scotchbrite or other scrubbing pad works well) to remove any caked-on dirt or rust.

Give them a light coat of oil on the metal parts, then store them in a bucket of sand to keep them rust-free and sharp until planting time comes.

YOUR HOME AND GARDEN Guide

Save money on watering your garden during the summer months

Serving the region for nearly sixty years, the Allflow team supply and service pumps and associated equipment around Nelson Tasman. With decades of experience in the industry, general manager Amos Lewis says his staff know first-hand about the clean water and wastewater industries. They specialise in this area and know detailed information about the equipment you need to get the job done.

“Our team has a vast knowledge of the clean water and wastewater industry, including the specialised equipment we sell. We pride ourselves on quality products and decades of expertise. To better serve you, we continually look for every opportunity to expand our knowledge and product lines.” A popular item of late that is proving its worth is the Water Mate Greywater Recycling Unit. This is the perfect unit

to help save money and recycle greywater for non-edible garden irrigation, says Amos.

“Or if you have a tiny home, this is the answer to your greywater problem! Greywater is the wastewater from your washing machine, shower, bath, and basins. Rather than letting the greywater run straight down the gully trap, this unit can filter the grey water during the dry months and keep your garden looking lush.” The unit can also be connected to the kitchen sink with the aid of a grease trap to remove fats, oils, grease, and food scraps.

The regular-sized unit is suitable for a small residential home or tiny home, with up to two showers and a washing machine. Retailing at $1,393, Amos says that with the quote of this advert they will sort a special price.

Step into Spring and an array of ideas for your homes, gardens and lifestyles at the iconic Nelson Home and Garden Show from 22 – 24 September at Saxton Stadium.

Enjoy a fantastic day out at the Show with super Show specials, giveaways, expert advice, and enjoy hundreds of ideas to improve your homes, gardens and lifestyles all in one easy location. Take a break from the shopping and enjoy a bite to eat at the Show with good food, great coffee, live music and family fun. The Show will feature a wonderful variety of new home builders, renovators and sub-trades all in the one easy location providing the perfect platform for anyone with a project on the go to get the ideas and answers they need and get those items on the to-do list ticked off. Home improvements are also made easy at the Show, whether it’s painting,

house cleaning, upgrading your insulation, double glazing, roof repair, it’s all covered!

Resident Builder Peter Wolfkamp will be at the Show again this year and Show visitors will get the chance to ‘speed date’ Peter, with the chance to have a 15 minute chat on their burning building and DIY questions! Keep an eye on Facebook to be in to win.

You don’t need a home improvement project on the go to enjoy the Nelson Home and Garden Show! There will be a wonderful range of artists, children’s products, crafts and artisan foods. Whether you are after a delicious treat of licorice, artisan foods, specialty spirits and more, there is bound to be something to tease the taste buds.

All this and much more at the Nelson Home and Garden Show – one to lock in your diaries today!

Think Water is synonymous with exceptional quality products and service that is second to none

Extending their reach further across the region, the Think Water team recently celebrated the grand opening of their Nelson store on St Vincent Street, with a bang, last weekend.

Thinkwater Nelson specialises in all things water, including pumping and irrigation, filtration, rain harvesting, heat pumps, pool and spa products. Bringing their extensive experience and specialised products to Nelson, the new store is also an authorised Husqvarna dealership providing a comprehensive range of top-quality products and power tools including chainsaws, blowers, batteries, cleaners, trimmers, hedgers, spare parts and accessories. Manager of Think Water Nelson, Troy Appleton, says that along with the opening of the

new store they are excited to launch the latest in high-tech robotic lawnmowing.

Unlocking hours of free time, the Husqvarna Automower range keep your lawn in perfect shape, through rain or shine, so you can spend precious time doing the things you love.

“The technology has gotten to a point where these auto mowers can cover most types of lawns and the price points are becoming quite do-able.”

Evolving with technology, but still committed to fuel-driven products, Troy says Think Water Nelson stock a broad range

of tools and products from all sides of the spectrum.

“Battery technology in the last three to four years has jumped in leaps and bounds, and there are some amazing products out there which we stock. But we are also aware there is a place for the more traditional fueldriven tool, and we are here to listen to customer’s needs and help provide solutions, assisting

customers to figure out which item would best suit them and their needs.”

Specialising in a broad range of water solutions for residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural clients, servicing is also a large part of the business ,says Troy.

“We offer sales, installation and servicing across all sectors.”

Contact the Think Water Nel-

son team on 03 528 8888 or email nelson@thinkwater.co.nz for more information on how they can help.

“We pride ourselves on warm, local customer service and have a reputation with our clients based on reliable delivery and trust. We listen to customers’ needs, providing solutions, not just products.” thinkwater.co.nz/nelson

Troy Appleton, Tracy Spark and Phil Collins.

Stay cool this summer with the ultimate in shade solutions

Prepare for the upcoming summer by initiating your project now and ensuring your outdoor space is ready before temperatures start soaring. Nelson Shade Solutions are dedicated to transforming outdoor areas into havens of comfort and style.

Designing, manufacturing, and installing a wide range of outdoor products, their extensive range includes shade sails, retractable roofs, extendable arm awnings, Shade 7 Umbrellas and innovative retractable shade panels like the Wave Shade. As a locally owned business, Nelson Shade Solutions have built a solid reputation as the foremost authority in outdoor solutions within the Nelson Tasman region. Coowner Darryn Cunningham says, “Our commitment begins with a free consultation at your home, enabling us to identify the perfect shade solution that suits your needswhether you need shade from the hot sun, protection from rain or wind or you want to

A fresh perspective on truly liveable tiny homes

make your outdoor area into a usable space all year round, we have a solution for you.”

Catering to residential and commercial needs, including schools, playcentres, hospitals, lifestyle villages and cafes, Nelson Shade Solutions never shy away from a challenge, as the team thrive on custom work and will work with you every step of the way to provide a perfect result. Offering an honest service, with impeccable attention to detail, contact Nelson Shade Solutions for a free quote today.

Embrace the spirit of spring with Nelson Tiny House Factory, where the art of crafting personalised tiny homes flourishes. They focus on creating beautiful, liveable homes, on wheels or on foundations, large or small, to suit every budget. Led by Thomas Schattovits, who has been building houses for over 30 years, the business has been operating from Appleby since last spring. With another base in Wanaka, Thomas decided to expand into Tasman Bay when he saw how the demand for Tiny Homes has grown in the region.

“We sit down with you and our in-house designer to go over one of our standard plans to find out what is important to you, and to make changes that reflect your taste and functional requirements,” says Thomas. The business offers both their own designs and those from renowned Auckland designer, Shaye’s Tiny Homes. “We are the exclusive licenced builder of Shaye’s Tiny Homes servicing the whole South Island.”

“We build every home locally; our experienced teams of builders ensure

outstanding quality homes built to NZ Building Code standards.”

Whether customers seek a cosy retreat, a productive sanctuary, or a canvas for adaptable living, the team’s expertise and personalised approach ensure that their tiny homes deliver on both practicality and aesthetic appeal.

“We take pride in helping people create high-quality housing on a small footprint that is affordable and truly liveable.”

The Appleby workshop is open by appointment. Thomas and the team are looking forward to showing off their work and listening to your ideas.

Shade Sails

Shade Umbrellas

YOUR HOME AND GARDEN Guide

Do you want to customise site, budget and lifestyle?

Whether it’s through necessity or keeping family close, with the cost of living at all-time highs, utilising a large section to add a second dwelling is a great idea to save money and keep loved ones close. Versatile Nelson owner Shaun Young says, “Here in New Zealand we aren’t so used to having multiple generations on the one property, but overseas it is very common.” Additional space can be in the form of a sleepout or small house to give teenagers space and a start in life or it could be to house parents as they look to downsize. “The result is independence with the security of knowing there is support at hand when needed or simply sharing in the good times.” At Versatile they have an amazing range of affordable homes that are cleverly designed to utilise space for every need.

“We manage the entire pro-

a

Fisher & Paykel appliance package

cess on your behalf, from dealing with the council to liaising with consultants for your flooring and furnishings and, of course, the paint finish. Our project manager will communicate with you regularly throughout the process so you know exactly what stage the build is at and what is coming up next.” As an example, Shaun says an Auckland couple nearing retirement recently enlisted Versatile Nelson to build a two-bedroom home on the back of their daughter’s property in Richmond. This was to enable them to move out of Auckland while downsizing and being closer to their children and grandchildren. “Their daughter and her family couldn’t think of anything better than having an on-site babysitter! The first step was to remove the family’s old garage and then Versatile took over and built a new

two-bedroom 75m2 ‘Konini’ home complete with feature skylight, veranda and deck. With crisp, clean lines and boasting a highly-functional kitchen and plenty of storage, the ‘Konini’ design, from the Freedom range, was a perfect op-

tion to house extended family on the current section.”

Versatile Nelson is part of a large nationwide franchise that has been operating in the New Zealand market for over 40 years. They are a 100% family-owned com-

pany underpinned by family values, honesty, integrity and a good old- fashioned Kiwi way of doing business. If you would like to know more about the opportunities of having a second home to keep your loved ones close or to generate some extra income, then give the friendly Versatile Nelson team a call for a chat about your ideas.

“We customise every home for each customer’s requirements, ensuring the build quality will provide a secure investment for many years to come. We have a huge selection of house plans to choose from and can customise to fit every budget, site and lifestyle.”

Versatile Nelson 03 5445142 or 0800 Versatile

Golden Elm Rise

Golden Elm Rise

Golden

Elm Rise Subdivision: A new horizon in Nelson's housing landscape

Golden Elm Rise Subdivision: A new horizon in Nelson's housing landscape

Nestled against the backdrop of the Botanical and Kaka hillsides, a new chapter in Nelson's housing evolution is about to unfold with the eagerly anticipated Stage One launch of Golden Elm Rise Subdivision. Bolstered by the support of Ray White Real Estate Nelson, the visionary project is poised to reshape the local housing scene as the first eight sections are unveiled.

Nestled against the backdrop of the Botanical and Kaka hillsides, a new chapter in Nelson's housing evolution is about to unfold with the eagerly anticipated Stage One launch of Golden Elm Rise Subdivision. Bolstered by the support of Ray White Real Estate Nelson, the visionary project is poised to reshape the local housing scene as the first eight sections are unveiled.

Robin Goetzke, the licensed salesperson who is spearheading the sales team behind the region's most exciting new subdivision, says that with the backing of Ray White, Golden Elm Rise Subdivision is set to become Nelson's freshest solution to housing needs. “The developers have worked tirelessly over the last

Robin Goetzke, the licensed salesperson who is spearheading the sales team behind the region's most exciting new subdivision, says that with the backing of Ray White, Golden Elm Rise Subdivision is set to become Nelson's freshest solution to housing needs. “The developers have worked tirelessly over the last

few years to make this dream of theirs come true and to supply the community with more housing. Boasting fantastic views, this development has a unique advantage – a sprawling green space reserve just across the road that forms an integral part of the project.”

few years to make this dream of theirs come true and to supply the community with more housing. Boasting fantastic views, this development has a unique advantage – a sprawling green space reserve just across the road that forms an integral part of the project.”

The proposed public space at the heart of the subdivision reinforces the developer's commitment to creating a communal hub across the road from the Stage One lots, and the selection of section sizes, ranging from 475sqm to 900sqm, comes at affordable prices.

The proposed public space at the heart of the subdivision reinforces the developer's commitment to creating a communal hub across the road from the Stage One lots, and the selection of section sizes, ranging from 475sqm to 900sqm, comes at affordable prices.

The elevated, northeast-facing sections offer optimal positioning and exceptional service access. Its strategic location places Nelson's CBD just a 20-minute walk away,

The elevated, northeast-facing sections offer optimal positioning and exceptional service access. Its strategic location places Nelson's CBD just a 20-minute walk away,

with local amenities, schools, places of worship, retail centres, sports grounds and the Nelson Hospital in close proximity. Transport links are also considered, with a new key Ebus route facilitating easy access to the city centre and nearby facilities. Spanning the area between upper Toi Toi Street, Princes Drive and Montreal Road, the project has been a collaborative effort. Garry

with local amenities, schools, places of worship, retail centres, sports grounds and the Nelson Hospital in close proximity. Transport links are also considered, with a new key Ebus route facilitating easy access to the city centre and nearby facilities. Spanning the area between upper Toi Toi Street, Princes Drive and Montreal Road, the project has been a collaborative effort. Garry

Adcock first acquired the land in the early 2000’s, paving the way for a mid-2000s planning phase.

Adcock first acquired the land in the early 2000’s, paving the way for a mid-2000s planning phase.

The Global Financial Crisis of 2007/2008 halted progress until the project regained momentum in 2016, ultimately securing Special Housing Area consent endorsed by MP at the time, Nick Smith, now our current Mayor.

The Global Financial Crisis of 2007/2008 halted progress until the project regained momentum in 2016, ultimately securing Special Housing Area consent endorsed by MP at the time, Nick Smith, now our current Mayor.

“A hallmark of Golden Elm Rise is its versatility in meeting diverse

“A hallmark of Golden Elm Rise is its versatility in meeting diverse

needs,” says Development Manager Aaron Adcock. “Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a retiree, an investor, or a family looking to build, this development caters to everyone.” Originally christened Toi Toi Grove, the project now bears the name ‘Golden Elm Rise’, and the change encapsulates a new chapter of aspiration, opportunity, and community.

needs,” says Development Manager Aaron Adcock. “Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a retiree, an investor, or a family looking to build, this development caters to everyone.” Originally christened Toi Toi Grove, the project now bears the name ‘Golden Elm Rise’, and the change encapsulates a new chapter of aspiration, opportunity, and community.

Aaron says a key driving force of the project’s mission is to empower first-time homebuyers and families to realise their dreams of homeownership. “And accordingly, we have built an excellent team that agree and align with our vision.”

As construction began over two years ago, the Adcock family’s involvement remains unwavering. Garry and his sons Aaron and Kane have been hands-on with the project, navigating every aspect, from earthmoving machinery to drainage installation and roading.

A family affair, Aaron and Kane work on site themselves and engage Nelson’s best subcontractors, operators and construction staff, to ensure a very efficient and effective team.

“I am proud to see this great development come to fruition, providing new opportunities for Nelsonian’s and first home buyers finding it tough to get on the property market, with the release of the first eight sections.”

What stands today as Golden Elm Rise was shaped by their

dedication, experience, and commitment to excellence.

Developing hillside land is very expensive and challenging, says Garry. “It requires a careful and measured approach. Three core principles for the project have been carried over in the design, construction and marketing – being sensitive to keeping the costs minimal to allow the most affordable section prices possible, providing a variety of section sizes not intended as one-size-fits-all, allowing for flexibility in house building and being community focused, providing facilities that will benefit all residents around the wider Toi Toi, Princes Drive and Tasman Heights area.”

As well as single freehold lots, looking ahead, Golden Elm Rise's future scope includes apartmentstyle living and duplex units.

“The project will soon have large, consented sites that will allow the development of apartment style living. These will be great homes and investment opportunities.

Duplex units will also be available within the development. Specific consented sites are being

constructed to allow for single or multiple purchasers to make the most of this affordable style of living. The availability of home and land packages further simplifies the journey to owning a slice of this promising development.

Celebrating their Open Day on Sunday, September 10, Robin says it will be quite the event!

“There will be a sausage sizzle, catering, and the presence of lo-

cal tradespeople and suppliers including new home consultants, builders, mortgage brokers and solicitors, who will provide an immersive experience into the future of housing in Nelson. A showcase of the subdivision sites will give attendees a sense of the vision that has been realised through tireless efforts. We look forward to seeing everyone there!”

Gary Stocker, Michael Stocker, Louise Walsh, and Bronwyn Lane are your legal specialists in subdivisions of

size.

More Stable More Able

Older Adults, Falls Prevention and Physical Activity

Supporting older adults across

COMING UP IN SEPTEMBER:

• Monday 11th - Continence NZ (Richmond Office)

• Monday 18th - More Able More Stable (Nelson Office)

• Friday 15th - CarFit (Suburbs Football Carpark)

• Wednesday 20th - Be Inspired - Cawthron Institute (Nelson Office)

• Wednesday 27th - Movie: My Old Lady, (Nelson Office)

• Thursday 5th Oct - Hearing Nelson (Nelson Office)

For more information: 03 544 7624

Email: admin@ageconcernnt.org.nz www.ageconcernnt.org.nz

Age Concern

The risk of falling is a real fear for older adults in our community. Community Falls Prevention Coordinator, Angela Baker, says “As we grow older falling over is scary, embarrassing perhaps, and often dangerous. All it takes is a slight bump, a misjudged seat or a foot out of place and ……whoopsie!!! you’re down.

There are several things to consider if you are at risk of falling. Have you tripped or slipped in the last 12 months, feel unsteady when standing or walking or have difficulty getting out of a chair without using hands to assist.

Following a fall it’s natural to worry and fear that you may fall again. Confidence can be greatly impacted, which means a person becomes less active and therefore muscle strength and balance decline which then increases the risk of falling again. It can seem like a vicious circle.

The good news is that falling is not a normal part of aging and can be prevented by doing relevant exercises to keep you upright, making your home safer & getting regular health checks. Attending a “More Stable More Able” falls-prevention session is a good option too. It provides and reminds you of all the information you need to keep you on your feet so you continue to enjoy doing the things you love.

On 3rd April, ACC launched a free app, Nymbl, that can help improve balance in older people in just 10mins a day.

For everyone, being in control of our health and wellness is important for living a fulfilling life. Falls, and the injuries they cause, are a significant health & well-being issue for older adults in New Zealand. ACC wants to see more older adults incorporating strength and balance exercises into their daily

lives so they can reduce their risk of falling.

The digital balance app, Nymbl, is now available free of charge to anyone in New Zealand aged 50+. All they need is a smart phone or tablet and internet access.

Nymbl is a safe and effective way for you to improve your balance through a personalised and customised exercise programme, in the comfort of your own home. Whether you want to improve or maintain your balance, the app will take you through simple body movements that are easy to fit into your daily routine. The programme is fun, safe, and quick.

“Re-establishing a regular exercise routine is another step to build leg strength, improve your balance & mood, REDUCE your risk of falling….plus it’s fun!” Accessing ACC-approved community strength & balance classes is ideal. You will meet fabulous, skilled instructors who will ensure that you spend time building leg strength and practicing balance. Exercise is key to healthy aging so Move Your Way back to a stronger more balanced YOU so that you can continue to live independently for as long as possible.

There are a wide variety of exercise classes to choose from so find one that really suits you. It needs to be enjoyable & make you smile…as well as helping you to gain strength and improve balance. You will be in safe hands as all recommended instructors are ACC approved. Look after yourself, your body and mind, and join a Strength and Balance class.

For more information on Falls Prevention information sessions and what classes are available, contact Ange Baker - Falls Prevention Coordinator Nelson 021 790 415 or go to www.livestronger.

Join us for a Spring Morning Tea Tour

Warmer months are just around the corner

That means gardens need to be prepared, repairs and maintenance planned, and spring cleaning started.

Here at Summerset Richmond Ranges we’re busy getting the village ready too. But our residents don’t need to lift a finger, as we take care of the chores, leaving them to spend their days how best they wish. Although some do still love to look after their gardens of course.

If you’ve ever been curious about a village life with fewer chores, now could be the time. We’re holding a Morning Tea Tour every Thursday in September at 10:30am, so you can get a taste of the Summerset life that our residents love so much.

Love the life you choose

Morning Tea Tour

Every Thursday in September, 10:30am

Summerset Richmond Ranges

1 Hill Street North, Richmond 03 744 3432 | summerset.co.nz/richmond

Topping the podium on her first try

JACK MALCOLM

Josie Willcox doesn’t describe herself as a cyclo-cross rider by trade, but that didn’t stop her from winning nationals. Having started riding mountainbikes just six years ago, it’s been a whirlwind of success for the cyclist as she continues to reach new heights.

After competing in European World Cup events for cross-country, her preferred discipline, she says it was a surprise to be on the top step of the podium at the Cyclo-cross (CX) nationals in the U23/Elite Female division. Winning by over a minute, she says she likes CX because it keeps her busy over the colder and wetter winter months.

Cyclo-cross sees racers complete several laps of a short course which can have any manner of course conditions from mud and grass to pavement and puddles.

One of the sports defining features are the obstacles throughout the race course which require the rider to dis-

mount and carry their bike over.

Josie says her background in athletics has given her an upperhand, with parallels to other mountainbiking disciplines. Having run cross country and long distance track and field on scholarship in America, she says that fitness translated well onto the bike.

She picked up riding after returning to New Zealand, saying her move to Nelson was based as much on its location as a biking mecca as it was for work.

“I probably jumped on a mountainbike six years ago and learning the skills has been a bit of a process.

“It’s the skill aspect that’s hard, I can grind and do that hard work.

“But, by 18 months I was pretty quick and I won a couple of big races, just because I was really fit from running.”

That success has seen her noticed by sponsors, with MyRide and Scott Bikes jumping on to support her mountainbiking journey.

But with a desire to compete in gravel racing, cyclo-cross and road biking, Josie says it hasn’t been easy to juggle it all. While mountainbiking is her “true love”, she says it’s hard to fit it all into her busy schedule while also affording all of the different bikes and their maintanence.

“There’s not much time, but I like being busy.

“I work a 40 hour week, with study on top of that, as well as 15-to-20 hours of training.”

Currently studying to be a sonographer, Josie says her work schedule got in the way of heading over to Europe for another World Cup season this time around.

“I’m not getting any younger, so it’s got to be relatively soon.”

Former Nelson rider Caelab Drummond was also in the mix at the Cyclo-Cross nationals, picking up the top spot in the Sport Male division.

The now Christchurch-based rider says, while he hadn’t done “too much” cyclo-cross in the past, he’s “pretty hooked now”.

Cup finals wrap up the football season

With that, the local football season is over as they celebrated their final weekend with a series of winner-take-all finals at the Golden Bay Recreation Reserve.

Following the regular season deciders two weeks ago, there were still teams in the hunt for silverware as the Nelson Bays’ Football Cup finals wrapped up the season.

And local Nelson clubs were in dominant form as Nelson Suburbs and FC Nelson picked up two trophies apiece, while Tahuna was also in the mix in the fourth division match.

With all games played in Golden Bay, it was Rangers AFC from Blenheim who took out top honours with a 1-0 win over Fresh Choice Richmond. Having fallen short in the regular season, it was a just reward for the team who had travelled the furthest for the game.

With the teams still in the hunt for silverware travelling over the Tākaka Hill to round off their season with a cup final on Saturday, it was action all day as Golden Bay Football Club hosted the last six games of the season. Photo: Abs

The women’s knock-out cup was won by Nelson Suburbs Womens Reserves as they outclassed FC Nelson Wahine.

In the second divisions’ Gould and Tout Trophy, FC Nelson’s Chin United were too good for their club counterparts, the Loco Steamers, with a 5-2 win, while the club also picked up the Thorkild Hansen Memorial Cup through their FC Nel-

son Masters’ team.

Nelson Suburbs saw success in the the third Division AR Hurst Trophy, with the Seals overcoming the league winners FC Nelson NMIT 3-0,. The fourth division’s Greg Brown Memorial Cup was picked up by Tahuna FC 3rd XI following a win over the Richmond Bogans to roundoff the season.

Josie Willcox only started riding mountainbikes six years ago, seeing almost instant success which has seen her travel the world to compete. That winning feeling was captured again as she won the Cyclo-cross nationals in her first crack at the event. Photo: Supplied.

JACK MALCOLM

Snaps.

Artistic skaters on a roll

JACK MALCOLM

Keiko Bamba has returned from the Pacific Cup with gold around her neck, having won the masters’ division figures section for the fifth time. She was one of two local athletes to travel to Brisbane for the event, with 14 year old Mya Graham also competing in the cadet division, where she finished eighth.

At 66 years old, Keiko is the oldest competitor in the event by over a decade and says it takes a lot of work to stay ahead of the field.

“The next oldest one is 55, there’s no one over 60.

“I’m getting better and better

since she (Tara Westwood) came last year. All of a sudden, my skating changed.”

Having represented New Zealand, Tara recently returned to the scene after a six year hiatus.

“I felt like coming down to the rink one day and I was sucked back in. I’m skating for fun and coaching.”

Keiko says the work with Tara has revolutionised her skating, but it was still a nervous wait to see where she was going to finish as the scores started to come through.

“I wasn’t sure until the lady came out with the piece of paper with my name on top of it.”

Tara says she wasn’t surprised with Keiko’s performance.

For Mya, who is coached by Hayley Nam, the result wasn’t quite the early birthday present she was looking for as the rest of the competition skated very well.

She’s proud of how she performed in her first overseas competition, having had to earn qualification to even compete.

“I was happy with my skate.” Having skated for the past six years after giving it a go at a birthday party, she is still improving rapidly.

Hayley says their current goals are to improve the flow and accuracy before Mya graduates to the youth grade next year.

“It’s a lot of skills and drills.”

Making life easy, Beggs Musicworks on Hardy Street are running an awesome trade-in special for the month of September!

Helping you to stream all the music in the world, with hi-res amps from Bluesound and NAD Electronics, receive up to $1500 off the latest award-winning hi-res music streaming amplifiers when you trade in your old gear.

“Come in and choose your poison,” says owner Tim Babbage. “If you already have a pair of speakers, you are good to go! If your current amp has stuffed out, now is a great opportunity to upgrade your system.

There are no hidden terms and conditions, we’re just not like that – It’s really basic, literally just come in, purchase a new streaming amp and get the trade-in value.

Put a pair of speakers with it, then you are cooking with gas – it really is that simple!”

Tim says the trade-in item can be anything that plays or amplifies music, including amplifiers, micro-hi-fi systems, soundbars, CD players, Bluetooth speakers and active monitorswhether they are in working condition or not.

Trade-in discounts are available on either the

award-winning Bluesound Powernode or Powernode Edge amplifiers, or the NAD C700, M10 V2 and M33 products.

All built with BluOS technology, Powernode and NAD products help you dive into the wonderful world of streaming and the rich tapestry of all music ever recorded, all in stunning highfidelity. No matter where your music resides, BluOS technology makes it a breeze to stream it all. Groove to your favourite songs, podcasts, and radio stations, thanks to its seamless support for popular music streaming services, granting access to entire music libraries.

Plus, with Wi-Fi connectivity, you can effortlessly sync up to a whopping 200,000 tracks in lossless quality from your personal music stash.

So, for as little as $1099 you could walk out with an award-winning streaming amplifier. Find your sound with Beggs Musicworks on Hardy Street. Pop in and chat to one of the team for the best advice on upgrading your system. They have the solution to suit any space!

117 Hardy St (Montgomery Arcade) Nelson

Stream all the music in the world with hi-res amps from BLUESOUND and NAD ELECTRONICS.

Mya Graham (14) and Keiko Bamba both qualified and competed in the Pacific Cup, with Keiko picking up gold in the masters’ figures division.

Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Tournament week wraps up school’s winter sports codes

JACK MALCOLM

It’s been a busy week for local school’s sporting stars as they embarked to all corners of the country for Secondary School’s winter sports tournament week.

Nelson College had nine teams travelling throughout the week, with jubilation and heartbreak as teams’ seasons culminated in some exciting final games.

For underwater hockey, it was a case of three teams making final but no gold medals as they weren’t able to continue their national dominance of the sport.

With Nelson College’s junior and senior teams falling victim to Glendowie College in the finals, the Nelson College for Girls senior team also came second after a loss to Mahurangi College in the final, while their junior girls team finished fourth.

With coach Rebecca Brosnan and a number of the players from each squad making higher honours, like MVP and the tournament team, there was still a lot to celebrate for the local teams.

Nelson College’s senior A hockey team will have another crack at trying to earn promotion after a tough loss to Auckland’s Kristin School in the final of the Johnson Cup.

Nelson College for Girls’ senior A netball team was in action, having some tough first up games which saw them finish 12th in the A grade.

In football, the Nelson College team struggled to find the winning combinations with one win from their premier tournament in Christchurch over Timaru Boys High School. The football team from Nelson College for Girls also found themselves against tough competition in the lower Gary Sowden Tournament, winning two of their six games over the tournament.

Nelson College’s hockey team will have time to regroup after a bitter finals loss, with just two players from the squad not coming back for another year with the team. Photo: Jack Malcolm.

Community Notices

MONDAY

PHILOSOPHY GROUP Meet 2nd & 4th Mon of the month, 10am. Trafalgar Hall, 67 Trafalgar St. All welcome. TXT Zoe 0279741758.

OUR CHOIR NEEDS YOU! Mon, 7pm. Friendly community choir, looking for people to join our tenor and bass parts. Ph: Jenny 0210729698 or jenchoir@gmail. com.

WELLBY SIGNPOSTER TRAINING: Mon, 25 Sept, 1– 2.30pm. Age Concern Hall. Info and to register Ph: 035467681 or www.wellby.org.nz/signposters.

FITNESS & FRESH AIR FREE supervised exercise sessions for seniors. Mon Saxton & Thurs Tāhunanui, 12pm. 30 mins walk & learn to use the outdoor exercise equipment safely. Ph: Ange 021790415

WOULD YOU LIKE A BIKE? Bike Hub Nelson accepts donations of good used bikes, fixes them up and gives them away for a small koha. 142 Saxton Rd. Mon, 5.30-7pm. For more info E: bikehubnelson@gmail. com.

TUESDAY

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

NELSON 50+ WALKING GROUP, Tues, 12 Sept, Wither Hills Blenheim. Meet 9.45am at the Forest Park Drive car park. BYO lunch. Ph: Allan 021306919.

WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ: Tues, 12 Sept, 10-11.30am, Tapawera Community Centre. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities, and services. Ph: 035467681 or visit www. wellby.org.nz.

WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ: Tues, 12 Sept,1.30 -3pm,

Richmond Library. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities, and services. Ph:035467681 or visit www.wellby. org.nz.

YOGA for people who have or have had cancer. Mon Afternoons, and Tues Eve. Reg: info@cancernelson.org. nz or Ph: 035391137.

VICTORY SIXTY PLUS Tues, 1.30 -3.30pm. 238 Upper Vanguard St. Join us for cards, games, and a cuppa. More info Ph: Jan 035469057 or 0274577955.

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

WEDNESDAY

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

QUIZ NIGHT for Rutherford St Kindergarten. Wed 13 Sept, 7:30pm, Lone Star Nelson. Come and join us for a fun evening to raise money for our awesome independent Kindy. Includes silent auction with amazing prizes. Tickets $25 each. Teams of four required. Ph: Jess info@rutherfordstkinder.co.nz

RADIO CONTROL SAILING at Best Island on Wed & Sun, weather permitting, usually 1pm onwards. IOMs and Dragon Force etc. New Members welcome. Ph: Peter 027 544 3923 for info and times.

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

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY 50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: myevent@nelsonweekly.co.nz

sion in specific muscles that have built up due to injury or stress & may be causing pain & dysfunction. Contact us to make an appt. Times available 9-9.45am, 10.3011.15am. Cost: Sliding Scale - $5 - $40.

THURSDAY

FORMER SENIOR ADVISOR for Greenpeace, Steve Abel is at Green Meadows. Thurs, 14 Sept, 7pm. To talk about, "Tackling the Barriers to Real Climate Action". Nelson Green Party presentation. Includes Q&A, Koha Entry.

MUSICAL BINGO FUNDRAISER, Thurs, 7 Sept, 6pm, The Buxton, Hardy St. Fundraising for Astrid (former owner Woodlea Florist) to get much-needed cancer treatment not funded by DHB. Join us for a fun night with great prizes & silent auctions. Tickets $10 available from Labels Clothing, 126 Bridge St, Nelson NELSON LIONESS - Seeking new members to join our service club. We are very social and active in our community. Meet 1st & 3rd Thurs of the month. Ph: Jillian 0272782743.

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP - meet 1st Thurs of the month Broadgreen House 276 Nayland Rd, 1.30-3.30pm. New evening group 7 Sept, 7pm Cancer Society offices, 102 Hardy St.Ph: Bill 035448635 or 035391137.

FRIDAY

SENIOR 3D FLOW FITNESS WITH COACH D: Mon & Fri, 1pm. Come join in and improve your health and fitness, including strength, coordination, balance, mobility, and agility. Tāhunanui Community Hub. Ph: 021411700. $5 per session. 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.

NELSON NEWBIES WALKING GROUP welcomes new people. Every Tues & Fri, 10am in Nelson, Stoke, Richmond. Ph: Karin 022 152 9963.

ART & CRAFT COMMUNITY GROUP. Fri, 10:3012:30pm, Tāhunanui Community Hub. Among other activities, we engage in painting and craft. This is a social group where like-minded individuals come together to enjoy coffee, conversations, and creative fun. We look forward to seeing you there! Ph: 0210754575.

$2.

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

VARIETY ENTERTAINMENT CLUB of Nelson Concert, Sat 9, Sept, 2pm, Whakatu Presbyterian Hall, Songer St. Ph: Ken 035474301 Robyn 035473231. Admission

$5 All Welcome.

WAIMARAMA COMMUNITY Gardens Spring Fair. Sun, 10 Sep, 11-3pm. Fruit tree pruning demo, seedlings and plants sale, compost club talk, tea and scones, raffle. Raising funds for shed reno. Ph: 0211709443.

HOPE TENNIS CLUB. Love Tennis. Sun, 10 Sept, 104pm. Come and give Tennis a go. All equipment provided. Everybody welcome. Queries Ph: 0276731145.

THE CLOTHING REVOLUTION. Sat, 16 Sept, 1pm for 1.30pm start, Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre. A Soroptimist International Waimea Club event. Professor Sara Walton from Otago University will talk about reducing our clothing footprint. Also present, local groups involved in saving clothes from landfill. Door entry $5 (Cash only).

MOTUEKA STEINER SCHOOL invites you to its Spring Fair. Sun, 17 Sep, 10 - 4pm, 165 Robinson Rd, Lower Moutere. This magical day is filled with fairies, great food, excellent entertainment, and fun for everyone! For updates, visit www.facebook.com/MotuekaStein-

erSchoolSpringFair

TAOIST TAI CHI - Sat 11-12pm, clubrooms 55 Muritai St. Also Mon, 10-11.30am, Stoke Methodist Church Hall, 94 Neale Ave, Ph: 035458357 and leave a message or E: nelson@taoisttaichi.org to register.

GENERAL GROUPS

IN THE MCKEE GALLERY, until – 10 Sept. Cathy Jones exhibition “With thanks”. All Welcome.

U3A – Interest groups and social activities for the over-55s. From quiz mornings to walking groups, digital photography to wine appreciation. Find likeminded inquisitive people who share your interests. www.u3anelson.org.nz

NELSON CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL - entries open now. Entries can be from individuals, families, community groups, businesses, and schools. Come and be part of the Christmas celebration. Entries close 30 Oct. ART EXHIBITION. A colourful and amusing display of pictures by local artist Shirley Crampton is on during Sept, in the Cafe at Nelson Golf Club. Open to the public daily.

INVINCIBLE ART EXHIBITION, 16 Sept – 7 Oct,

The Refinery Gallery. Celebrate 130 years of votes for women, view and buy artworks from our region and support the Nelson Women’s Centre. 'Invincible' is a fundraising art exhibition marking the 130th anniversary of votes for women in Aotearoa-NZ.

LUNG CANCER CONNECT for those who are going through or who have gone through lung cancer. Ph: 035391137.

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: Allan 021543345.

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

THANK YOU NASH, ARTHUR

Sending heart felt thanks to the many services who supported us all.

For helping me to keep strong as Arthur wished to be by his side, holding his hand. He is now pain free at peace.

Lynda Nash

SITUATIONS VACANT VINEYARD SPRAYER OPERATOR

For immediate start.

Growsafe an advantage. Based in Appleby, Nelson. Must be mechanically minded and be able to work as part of a team. Early starts, and 40+ hours/week.

Phone for further info0274 451 555 or anna@seifried.co.nz

Simple

email: sales@nelsonweekly.co.nz

MEMORIAM

Your announcement here for FREE

ANNIVERSARY

Your announcement here for FREE BIRTH

Your announcement here for FREE

Call Owen today 541 0820 / 021 120 1314 office@sdfunerals.nz

SITUATIONS VACANT DELIVERERS WANTED

Interested in fundraising for a club or social group?

THEN WE HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY FOR YOU!

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

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Stump Grinding Tree Felling & Removal Site Clearance Andrew Workman 02108182123 Free Quotes & Prompt Service www.stumpgrindingservice.co.nz

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