Nelson Weekly - 16 October 2024 by Top South Media

NZTA U-turn over weeds

MAX FRETHEY

Local Democracy Reporter

The weeds on overgrown Nelson roundabouts and traffic islands along State Highway 6 will now be trimmed this week.

The revelation comes less than

a week after the New Zealand Transport Agency – Waka Kotahi said that weeding wasn’t scheduled until December.

The agency has confirmed that the weed control is, weather permitting, expected to be undetaken on Friday along Whakatū

Diwali festival lights up

ANNE HARDIE

As a young girl growing up in Delhi, the Diwali Festival was the equivalent of Christmas for Garima Datta, with lamps lit, brightly-coloured decorations hung around the home and a time to spread love and happiness.

Now with her own young daughter growing up in Nelson, Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, is a time to continue that tradition and share it with the wider community.

Diwali 2024 is being held on Saturday afternoon at Founders Heritage Park, bringing the community together to celebrate the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It is the grand finale of the Indian festival season and the local Indian community have had several smaller festivals in the lead-up to Diwali.

Garima, who has the Delhi Supermart in Stoke, says that Diwali, like Christmas, is a time for gifts, decorations, food and celebration, but with

SEE PAGE 4

Drive/SH6. A spokesperson said the work had been brought forward because the vegetation has grown “very quickly” during the onset of spring.

“The work needs to be undertaken soon before the vegetation becomes unmanageable for our

contractors to manage with their machines.”

Weeding is scheduled to be undertaken on the Whakatu/Annesbrook, Waimea/Beatson, and Whakatu/Salisbury roundabouts, but it is unclear if it will extend to the berms in between.

The impact on traffic at this stage is similarly unknown as the traffic management plan is still being developed. The U-turn comes after public outcry launched the weeds back into local headlines.

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Garima Datta is ready for Diwali, the Festival of Lights.

Photo: Tessa Claus.

YOUR ORAL HEALTH SPECIALISTS

FROM PAGE 1

The issue of overgrown roundabouts and traffic islands were a consistent issue for the city over the course of 2022.

Guerilla gardeners, such as self-proclaimed “weed witches”, have tried to solve the problem themselves in the past, and a resident has already been spotted trimming some of the weeds this year. Nelson Mayor Nick Smith has previously been highly critical of the transport agency’s approach to weed management and has been putting pressure on them over the last few weeks. His frustrations had been boiling to the point where he had been considering taking care of the weeds himself.

He was “relieved” the weeding was being brought forward given the safety issues posed by the

“I’m not in favour of bumpy roads, so I hope it delivers.”

“I think so, Washington Valley, Toi Toi and The Wood roads need some work.”

tall vegetation and described the situation as “embarrassing” for Waka Kotahi.

“It has been incredibly frustrating, when this issue has been raised multiple times over the last two years, that NZTA can’t get something as knocking a few weeds over resolved.”

Nick says he struggled with how

long it was taking for the agency to get a long-term solution.

“How on earth is NZTA going to be able to deliver a huge project like the Hope Bypass in a reasonable timeframe when they can’t sort out a landscape design for a roundabout in two years?”

A Waka Kotahi representative confirmed the agency was inves-

“Most of the problems with roads are in remote areas and often those areas get overlooked, so it depends on the allocation.”

The government is investing more than $2 billion in pothole prevention; do you think it will help our local roads?

“I think the roads around Nelson look fantastic, so I think that pool of money could be better used elsewhere.”

tigating concrete and landscaping options back in December 2022.

Funding changes have seen Waka Kotahi shift to a yearly vegetation control programme.

Nick acknowledged that everybody was under financial pressure at the moment.

“But I just can simply not accept that the simple job of regularly mowing and weeding these roundabouts … is a sensible budgetary saving in these tight times.”

Nelson councillor Mel Courtney sits alongside Nick on the region’s transportation committee and has similarly long taken issue with the weed problem. It wasn’t adequate that a solution hadn’t yet been put forward, he said, suggesting that a plan could be developed “over a cup of coffee”.

roundabout at the intersection of Haven Road and Queen Elizabeth II Drive, which is covered by stones and some plantings and doesn’t have the same weed problems as those on Whakatū Drive. “People take pride in the city... and here we are, having to razzle them [Waka Kotahi] up every 12 months.” The cost of managing the weeds would be “infinitesimal”, he thought. Both men thought a yearly weed maintenance programme was insufficient.

“Our council spends tens of millions of dollars on trying to make our city look good,” Nick says. “If I told my wife I was only going to mow the lawns once a year, I’d get a divorce.”

He pointed to the “good job” Waka Kotahi has done for the

Tony Andrews The Wood

Lili Wenzel Toi Toi

Theresa Zam Nelson South

Caspian Smith The Glen

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith and councillor Mel Courtney were tempted to take care of the problem themselves. Photo: Max Frethey.

‘Nelson is going

to suffer’ – staged hospital development a hard sell

Fears that Nelson Hospital might miss out on the major redevel-

it sorely needs have not been soothed after a Friday briefing to local leaders.

Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora officials fronted elected members of the Nelson and Tasman councils with an update to the “crucial” hospital project. The briefing further explored the Government’s revised scope of the redevelopment which would comprise several smaller buildings instead of a single large building.

Blake Lepper, Health NZ’s head of infrastructure delivery, said the Government wanted projects that were deliverable in their original scope.

For the Top of the South, Blake said that meant staged smaller projects in the order of $200-300 million which take 3-4 years to complete, rather than a singular billion-dollar-plus project which would take considerably longer to build.

The staged approach would also give Health NZ the flexibility to adapt to regional changes along the way, rather than risking a new hospital building being “outdated on the day it opens”.

The Nelson Hospital’s first project is a new acute inpatient building that would be built adjacent to the current one. A design business case is expected to be presented to Cabinet for that project in November.

That approach is hoped to enable sufficient capacity to ensure acute care doesn’t negatively impact planned care and to take some immediate pressure off local health services.

Health New Zealand officials said the first stage of the redevelopment would begin in early 2026. Nelson MP Rachel Boyack said a single larger building would provide more efficient healthcare and be safer in the event of an earthquake. Photos: Max Frethey.

But councillors had concerns that once the first stage was complete, further stages could be abandoned as political priorities shift.

“Nelson Hospital redevelopment could kind of go back to the bottom of the list, and … broader infrastructure priorities may come and supersede ours,” said Nelson councillor Rachel Sanson.

“You know how Cabinet works,” echoed Tasman councillor Glen Daikee. “It will be lost at the bottom of the pile, and we’ll be bottom of the rung again.”

Blake, as a health official, wasn’t able to comment on the potential prioritisation of the full redevelopment against other infrastructure priorities by an elected government.

But he said the new inpatient building wouldn’t be the end of investment in Nelson Hospital.

He added the underlying programme business case which outlines the full aspirations and tar-

gets for Nelson Hospital, which has been approved by Cabinet, remains.

Nelson’s Labour MP, Rachel Boyack, was unconvinced.

“That is my real fear here, that we’re getting a downgraded proposal that will only deliver a portion of the capacity that we actually need at Nelson,” she said. “If they only go ahead with one, smaller building, we will be back here for another conversation in 15- or 20-years’ time. We will be talking again about one large building that is needed, and it won’t cost $1.1 billion, it’ll cost $2 or $3 billion.”

The previous Labour Government planned to deliver a single facility, preventing the risk of disjointed healthcare with patients transferring be-

tween buildings and would allow the whole structure to be built to withstand a significant earthquake along the Alpine Fault, she said. “Nelson is going to suffer. I am, quite frankly, gutted.”

Subject to Cabinet approval and granting of resource consent, it

is hoped construction of the new inpatient building would start in early 2026 with construction expected to take between 2.5 and 3 years. Earthquake strengthening work for the George Manson and Percy Brunette buildings is also moving along, with the former half-completed and consent applications for the latter to be lodged imminently.

It is hoped the strengthening works will be completed by the end of 2025, before the November 2028 deadline.

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith said the strengthening work was “very significant”. “I will sleep a lot easier as the mayor of this community when neither of those buildings are earthquake prone.”

Strengthening those two buildings, Blake said, would allow them to continue to be used into the future, preventing the need for even more spending.

The 64-year-old George Manson building was found to be the nation’s worst hospital building in a government stocktake. It’s now proposed that the building become an administration block.

Nautical market propelled

GORDON PREECE

A nautical flea market will moor at Port Nelson on Sunday to hoist funds for Sailability Nelson.

The organisation offers sailing outings from Nelson Yacht Club to navigate adventure and freedom for Nelsonians with an intellectual or physical disability.

Event co-organiser and Sailability Nelson skipper Denis Moriarty says the season for the initiative will set sail between November and March, and any amount raised at the market would be welcomed.

He says the market was also a place for boaties and former boaties to donate any gear.

“I think there’s a lot of boaties in Nelson at different stages in their lives, and they might have a boat, a boat trailer or boating gear that is probably held onto in their sheds,” he says.

“It’s a reminder that there’s somewhere for them to take [the items] if they want to move it on.

“We also want it to be an enjoyable event around the Port Nelson area, where boaties can meet up and bring stuff along and find stuff that they need that they probably couldn’t access from anywhere else.”

Denis says he was also available to collect nautical-related items for the market from anyone who wishes to support it by contacting dropdenisaline@gmail.com or 027 474 6631.

The market will be anchors aweigh at Akersten St near Ruby’s Cafe on Sunday, 20 October between 9am and 2pm.

Record year for holiday park

KATE RUSSELL

The Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park has had another record year with 36,000 visitors through the gates, staying a combined 182,000 nights.

However, the park’s net surplus is substantially down on last year, from $772k to $63k, which is due in part to upgrades, increasing costs, as well as the “significant” costs associated with the mounting a submission on the proposed PPC30 - the airport runway extension.

This and more were highlighted at the park’s recent annual general meeting.

Chief executive David Pattinson says that reinvestment into the property is still a major priority for the park, with upgrades continuing for the fourth year straight.

Just over $600,000 was reinvested in the park’s facilities, infrastructure, and systems.

Major renovations have been completed on their two accessible units after the termination of their contract with

Disability Action (CCS) at a cost of $100,000.

They also invested $67,000 on fixtures and fittings for their apartment motels and classic motels.

“Not all of the units were upgraded and there is still more to do but it certainly gave the units a badly needed lift,” David says.

This year saw the park pay Nelson City Council, the

park’s landlord, $447,000 for the year, under the terms of the lease - a six per cent increase on last year.

The park has also provided sponsorship in various forms to more than 20 businesses and community causes in the region, including the development of the Giants Experience which connects primary school students with the NBS Giants Basketball players, and

funding the annual Tāhunanui Beach clean-up.

Around 50 people are employed by the park in the summer and around 25 in the winter, putting nearly $2m in wages into the community.

“I look back with great pride at what we have achieved over the last four to five years,” David says.

“It has been a transformative few years but the job is not yet finished. There’s still much to do and many opportunities and challenges ahead, but I think we’re well-placed to meet these challenges.”

The park continues to attain Tourism New Zealand’s Gold standard in the Qualmark for Sustainable Tourism, while customer satisfaction (Net Promoter Score) has increased by 7 per cent year on year.

They will also be bringing back the double-decker beach bus this summer for three weeks from 27 December. There will be daily runs between the park, the beach, and the city.

Diwali Festival lights up at Founders

FROM PAGE 1

a different history. It’s based on Hindu mythology where Diwali marks the day that Lord Rama, his wife Sita Devi and brother Lakshmana return to their homeland after 14 years in exile. To celebrate their return, the villagers cleaned their houses and lit oil lamps to light their path. Today, Garima says Indian families still light lamps and also create colourful rangoli, which is an art form created

on the floor or as a welcome mat at the entrance, using materials such as coloured powders, flowers, rice and lentils.

“We’re waiting for Diwali the whole year to unite people, spread love and happiness and distribute gifts.

“In India, it is massive. Everywhere is sweets and lighting and all the houses have lamps (diya).

“We make special sweets like gulab jamun, burfi and milk cake.

“To have it here, it’s a bit of home.

“My daughter doesn’t know about Diwali, so it’s important to show it to her because it’s part of her culture.”

More than 800 million people celebrate Diwali worldwide and last year about 3,000 people celebrated it in Nelson.

Experience India is organising the festival and expects 5,000 or more people this year.

Festival goers will be able to taste an array of Indian veg-

etarian delicacies, experience temple rituals and have the opportunity of learning how to make rangoli.

Even more market stalls than last year will be offering Indian spices, clothing and jewellery, accompanied by the sounds of an Indian DJ playing the latest Bollywood hits. Experience India recommends festival goers walk, bike or take public transport to be lighter on nature, and to also bring their own cutlery to the event.

From left is Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park maintenance technician Barry Smith in the tractor, with facilities manager Joe Adams and landscaper Shane Brownlie. Photo: Kate Russell.

Denis Moriarty, left, and Roland Goos are paddling the waka for the Nelson Nautical Flea Market. Photo: Gordon Preece.

Skydiving trio raise $5k for cancer society

ANNE HARDIE

A trio of Summerset in the Sun women aged between 75 and 86 have raised more than $5,000 between them for the Cancer Society Nelson Tasman by jumping out of a perfectly good plane for their first skydive.

Carol Ercolano, 86 and turning 87 in December, Dorothy Cochrane, 80 and Joyce Pascoe, 75, made 600 cheese rolls to order for residents at the Stoke retirement village which alone contributed $1,000 to their final tally that also included a disco at the village and raffles.

The trio have a combined age of 241 years and taking a tandem jump from a plane at 13,000 feet on Saturday was all part of living life to the full. As they were preparing to take flight, Joyce warned she would be “screaming all the way down” and afterwards admitted the enormity of what they were doing really hit home as the plane was climbing.

“I was so scared – I said: ‘I can’t do this!’ And the first part was so scary. You’re face down and feel so helpless and everything is rushing at you. Then the chute opened and that was the best part!”

Dorothy has been wanting to skydive for years, and on the ground after the jump she was already contemplating her next one. It may be the first skydive for the trio, but the adventurous spirit has been around for a while.

Joyce has had her adrenalin pumping in the past with a bungy jump and Carol’s hobby in her younger years was caving or “potholing”. She has explored deep under Mt Owen and been at the bottom of Harwood’s Hole and is

now an honorary life member of the Nelson Speleological Group she formed with fellow cavers in 1960.

“Because I was small, I used to go through the little spaces to see if anything was worth looking at.”

This time she was high above the ground, free-falling from a plane with her tandem buddy before soaring under the parachute. “I thought it would be good to do something out of my comfort zone.”

She has wanted to fly as long as she can remember, so much so, she “flew in my dreams” as a child and after her skydive recited a poem she wrote about flying that was not only long, but captivating.

The trio decided to plunge from a plane after watching four Summerset in the Sun men jump last year. That was the first time the retirement village took part in Jump for Cancer which is a partnership between the Cancer Society and skydiving companies by arranging tandem jumps to raise funds.

“It just looked such fun,” Joyce says. “You could see on their faces they were so exhilarated, and I thought, I want it!”

Statistically, one in three people get cancer and two of the three skydivers are cancer survivors. Carol says the high rates of cancer means everyone knows someone who has had cancer which makes it a good reason to jump out of a plane to raise money.

NELSON

Skydivers Joyce Pascoe, left, Carol Ercolano and Dorothy Cochrane with Skydive Abel Tasman tandem master, Hamish Wilson. Photo: Anne Hardie.

‘Wait and see’ for fast-tracked projects

MAX FRETHEY

Local Democracy Reporter

The Government’s fast-track legislation aims to cut through red tape and trigger much-needed investment, but a Nelson developer says its benefits are entirely unknown.

A total of 149 projects have been selected for fast-tracking by the Government, and three are from Nelson Tasman.

Andrew Spittal is one of the minds behind two of the region’s projects: the Maitahi Village in Kākā Valley and the Māpua Development.

The Maitahi Village is “98 per cent ready to go” and is just awaiting approval from the Environment Court before the resource consent applications are lodged with Nelson City Council.

The village is expected to provide 180 new residential lots, 50 of which are earmarked for iwiled housing, a residential village with about 194 townhouses, and a commercial centre.

The Māpua Development is “nowhere near” as advanced as the Maitahi Village, with work currently awaiting the result of Tasman District Council’s masterplanning process for the town.

Andrew says it’s “nice” to have projects included in the 149 selected but adds that it’s entirely unknown whether being fasttracked will be beneficial.

“It’s a wait and see until we understand what it is, but we will keep on following the processes that are in play now.”

Only once further details of the legislation are released – the bill is currently at the select committee stage – will he and his partners consider whether it’s worth pursuing the fast-track process.

“We’ve all been trying to work out what it means. What we’ve decid-

ed is that we’ll carry on as usual and see what happens,” Andrew says. “If the fast-track is beneficial, we’ll use it. If it’s not, then we’ll follow the process that we’ve already invested in.”

While Andrew acknowledges that development can be “hard to do”, he says he has “no real issues” with the Resource Management Act, but that difficulties can arise through its interpretation.

The Maitahi Village has received significant opposition from lobby group Save the Maitai, as well as from numerous residents, about

the potential environmental effects on the Maitai River.

The Government’s fast-track legislation has also come under fire from the Opposition and environmental advocates who allege that the legislation undermines environmental protections.

But Andrew says the development will uphold environmental standards.

“We’ve actually enhanced all the rules and provisions higher than what’s standard, because we want to do it.”

The third Nelson Tasman project selected for fast-tracking is

the Hope Bypass – one of the Government’s Roads of National Significance – which would result in State Highway 6 bypassing Richmond to ease congestion and allow for more housing.

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith was encouraged by its inclusion on the list, saying the highway was one of the most important priorities for the region.

“We’ve got to get over both the hurdles of its consenting as well as its funding, and this signals it is a priority,” he says.

“It’s a good sign that it made the cut.”

Nick says he would be interested in exploring the possibility of fast-tracking the future development of the Nelson Marina.

He adds that the country does not have a good track record in delivering major infrastructure in a timely manner and so he thought the fast-track legislation was encouraging.

“It’s a step forward, but it’s not the only thing that’s going to be required for New Zealand to close the infrastructure gap.”

Fuel disrupter Waitomo is coming to Nelson

Waitomo, the fuel company known as a market disrupter because it brings more competition and drives prices down, is coming to Nelson and expects to be pumping fuel by the end of November.

The family-owned fuel company that was born in Te Kuiti has purchased the Mobil stations in Stoke and Tāhunanui, after searching for a site for years.

Nelson has been called out by the Commerce Commission and the Automobile Association in the past for having some of the most expensive fuel in the country. But prices have dropped in recent months and Waitomo’s chief executive, Simon Parham, says that is typical when Waitomo enters the market.

“It happens in every market. The competitors have obviously got wind that we are coming, and prices

have suddenly got more competitive. But hey look, that’s great that we don’t even have to enter the market to get better value for Nelson customers.”

He says Waitomo is a lowcost fuel operator, with unattended pumps, no convenience stores and without the overheads of the larger fuel companies, enabling it to offer sustainable low-priced fuel. When Waitomo has entered the market in other regions, fuel prices have dropped by 20 to 30 cents a litre, but that has already happened in Nelson in the past few months, he says.

He says the average driv-

er spends between $3000 and $5000 of fuel each year, which means that 20 to 30 cents a litre adds up. For Tasman motorists, Waitomo is still searching for a site and he says the region is difficult to find suitable sites. The land is closely held and has a premium price tag, especially where it’s suitable for a petrol station on a busy road. “You find us a property and we’ll come and develop it.”

Waitomo has plans to open another seven petrol stations around the country before Christmas and next year a further 10 to15 sites.

The only Nelson project to be selected for fast-tracking was the Maitahi Village which would be built in the Kākā Valley. Photo: File.

ANNE HARDIE

Waitomo chief executive Simon Parham.

Photo: Supplied.

Wheels up on mountaibike skills park

SARA HOLLYMAN

A project two years in the making will provide a space for those wanting to try their hand at mountabiking, whether they are eight or 80.

Codgers Skills Park, just off Brook St, officially opens on Sunday. After being flagged by Nelson City Council that the area could be utilised by the Nelson Mountain Bike Club, an agreement was reached to lease the land.

Architecturally-designed, the skills park offers a safe area for riders to learn how to balance, ride on different surfaces, and learn how to navigate the type of drops they can find on some of the region’s trails.

A grant from the Lions Foundation enabled the bulk of the construction, with local companies jumping on board.

Donaldson Civil cleared the site, South Pine donated wood, Fulton Hogan donated rock, NCC provided gravel, and Nelson En-

vironment Centre jumped on board too, a real labour of love according to Tayla Carson, the club’s events portfolio holder.

The skills park differs to pump tracks by offering different surfaces.

“Pump tracks are more speed and flow so it’s a smooth surface, the skills park has rock gardens and more varied stuff like balance and drops,” construction contractor Kurt Lancaster says.

Tayla says the park will be more forgiving than learning up in the hills.

“That’s the idea around it. To be able to recreate features in an easily-accessed area that you would see on a trail. So like these rollers, for example, we have very similar ones on P51 and then drop features. On a lot of trails, you’ll have a drop which is compulsory. So if they come here and practice, they can build up their confidence, so when they are on the trail, they’re able, and more confident, to hit those features.”

They have tried to make the park progressive to incorporate an easier area, more focused on balance, to more difficult stuff on the other side. A picnic area will also be established with someone already offering to build a picnic table for the space. The club hopes it will become a place people gather before and after rides, which will double as an added bonus, shifting riders away from

Brook St and its residents.

“It’s good for all of the community,” Tayla says.

Head along to the opening of the park on Sunday, 20 October at 1pm. Working bee from 9am.

E-cargo bike and trailer loan launched

Bike Hub Nelson has launched a new project designed to make it easier for more people to experience the benefits of e-cargo bikes and trailers.

The ‘Trial Me’ scheme allows businesses to borrow a brandnew, high-quality Tern e-cargo bike and custom-built trailer on a koha-basis to see whether investing in such kit would work for them.

The project has been supported by Nelson City Council with funding of $8,970 through its Climate Change Business Grants. It’s also being supported by the team at The Bike Station who are storing the bike and trailer between loans and offering discounts to custom-

ers who decide to get an e-cargo bike of their own.

Bike Hub Nelson coordinator Matt Lawrey says that by providing local businesses with the opportunity to trial e-cargo bikes and trailers, they are breaking down the barriers of cost and uncertainty and demonstrating the practicality and efficiency of this eco-friendly mode of transport.

“Initial feedback has been excellent. We’ve had several people borrowing the bike and trailer as part of pre-launch testing and already one customer has gone and bought an e-cargo bike of their own,” Matt says.

“E-cargo bikes are truly awesome things, but they’re not cheap. Our project is designed to make it easy and affordable for people to find out just how brilliant and fun these machines are and just how much of a difference they can make.”

One of the first people to borrow the bike was Cawthron Institute’s laboratories sustainability coordinator Sacha Astill, who used it to deliver seafood waste to Victory Community Garden and Sealord. “It’s very user-friendly. It’s easy to manoeuvre and you can fit lots on there. The cargo capacity is great.”

To book, email BikeHubNelson @gmail.com

Bike Hub Nelson volunteers, from left, Bevan Woodward, Gera Verheul and George Connor show off the ‘Trial Me’ e-cargo bike and trailer. Photo: Supplied.

Kurt Lancaster, Tayla Carson, and Tate Lancaster, 5, “and a half” at the new mountainbike skills park off Brook St. Photo: Sara Hollyman.

Weaving people together for 30 years

SARA HOLLYMAN

Multicultural Nelson Tasman celebrated its 30-year milestone with the opening of its new home on Waimea Rd.

Formed in 1994 under the name Nelson Ethnic Council, the non-government organisation supports migrants, former refugees and people from minority ethnicities in the region with their settlement process.

But founding member Marie Lindaya says it’s grown to so much more over three decades.

It now also promotes positive race relations through community education, ensuring people of all ethnicities feel empowered so that they can actively contribute

to our community.

“Success is not mine, but the collective’s,” Marie quickly points out of the team of people who have helped shape the organisation to what it is today.

Coming to Nelson from the Philippines in 1990, Marie saw a growing ethnic community while working for the local branch of Department of Internal Affairs.

“People needed to connect to each other,” she says.

So, along with a colleague she organised a meeting to test the waters for such an organisation.

“I started looking at the phone book, looking at foreign sounding names, went through A-Z on the electoral role, and invited people randomly,” she says of getting

the word out.

“People turned up, and to my suprise they had all these ideas.”

The rest is history, as is Marie’s long-standing hardwork with the organisation which includes board member, treasurer, secretary and deputy chair.

“MNT promotes positive race relations, we help people feel empowered, we’ve become so much more than celebrating dances, food and culture. We’ve enriched the region, and we are part of ecomnomic growth.

“We’re health workers, farmers, construction workers, scientists, support workers, dairy owners, bus drivers... you name it, ethnic communities - migrants and former refugees, are there working

hard.”

She says the new Waimea Rd headquarters, which was former Nelson MP Nick Smith’s electoral office, will be a hub that welcomes all.

“Reports from the latest census show NZ is increasingly culturally diverse. We want to bring those people together and make them stronger,” Marie says.

Marie says, by 1997 it was clear the organisation was only going to continue growing, and despite the challenges faced over the years, it was never an option to stop. “It’s too important and too valuable, to have the organisation to bring people together.”

Visit www.multiculturalnt. co.nz/ for more information.

Multicultural Nelson Tasman board members from left, Cameron Hatton, Felicity Palmer, Mary Bronsteter, Anna Fyfe, Marie Lindaya, Bill Dyson, Monique Dalziel, and Tie Jian outside their new Waimea Rd home. Photo: Gordon Preece.

Runners signing up for The Spectacle

ANNE HARDIE

Nelson’s inaugural running event, The Spectacle, is on track to have the best international field of athletes for its Elite Mile race that New Zealand has ever seen and one of its founders says it will live up to the name of the event.

The Spectacle takes place 13-15 December, with at least 2,000 competitors and “maybe close to 3,000” who will take part in a range of races, from school relays on the streets of Nelson through to the 100 Mile which climbs hundreds of metres through the hills behind the city.

Michael Cochrane says the Elite Mile on the streets of Nelson already has entries from several top athletes from around the globe who have run sub-four-minute miles, including New Zealand’s Sam Tanner who was the youngest Kiwi ever to achieve the feat.

“That mile race is a real spectacle – that’s why we wanted to name the event The Spectacle. When someone is running a sub-fourminute mile, it’s really something to behold when you are a spectator on the street.”

Numerous schools have registered for the mile relays and businesses are entering teams, so real estate companies will battle it out and teams of lawyers will be pitted against each other. Michael says the trail events

which are on “quite gnarly” terrain in places like Dun Mountain, are attracting good entries, with about 50 runners entered in the 100 Mile so far.

That takes runners up to the Te Araroa Trail and over Dun Mountain and Little Twin, before many kilometres later finishing in the heart of the city. If that’s too much, there’s the 100 km race, or 10 km.

It was running those trails that ignited the idea of a running festival in Nelson, and as a trail runner with ultramarathons under his belt, Michael has run a few trails in the area.

“The trails we have here are exceptional; they’re world class. So, why don’t we have a world-class event here?”

Olympian middle-distance runner and fellow Nelsonian, Julian Matthews, said ‘why not add a mile event as well?’ They teamed up with world cross-country runner Annika Pfitzinger, also from Nelson, and got local adventure-racing champion Nathan Fa’avae on board to manage the event.

This is the festival’s birth and Michael would like to see it become an annual event that grows over time, bringing thousands of peo-

ple into the centre of Nelson.

As chief executive of Matthews Eyecare, he says he knows how hard it is for retailers in the city and events such as The Spectacle are needed.

As well as the 2,000 or more competitors, the event is expected to attract about 5,000 spectators for the street events and finish lines.

“We know Nelson CBD needs more events and reasons for people to come to Nelson. As retailers, we want something that can replace Wearable Arts in the future. And there’s a running boom. You just need to be out on the trails or Rocks Rd on a Saturday and there’s more and more people running.”

This year he headed to the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc in the French Alps, an ultramarathon race that was first held in 2003 and is now regarded as the most competitive trail ultramarathon in the world. It attracted 25,000 competitors this year and Simon says it started out as a little club run.

“Now it’s the biggest event in the sport. Our hope for The Spectacle is more and more people will want to come and run these trails.”

For more information visit www. thespectacle.co.nz

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More than 2,000 competitors will be taking part in a range of races in December. Photo: Supplied.

Aaliyah Tarapipipi, 6, Theo Turnhout, Leah Turnhout, 4, Frankie Turnhout, 2

Chloe, Finley, 3, and Brad Chang

David Moore and Jo Smith

Emme Wood, 4, Tina Hebberd, Jakob Wood and Maci Wood, 1

Scotty Gruhei and Elliot Brookes

Douglas Brooks and Justin Eade

Jono Schruer and Neil Benson

Mike Cavit and Joanna Redmond

Naomi Strain and Justin Eade

Sarah Burton Fielding and Liss Spratt

Weeds on Nelson roundabouts

I was pleased to read Gordon Preece’s article (9/10/24) raising again the embarrassing state of the roundabouts on the Nelson/Richmond roads. We are a tourist destination year-round and we deserve a better treatment from NZTA. They cite new health and safety risks as well as a cut back in funding as the reasons for this unsatisfactory standard. Perhaps a shift in priority and spending less on unused cycleways could solve this problem.

From a health and safety view, I observed recently Nelmac undertake a great job of improving the roundabout at the Saxton Rd/ Main Road Stoke intersection. They placed orange cones around the perimeter, planted more plants and “wheel-barrowed” new bark onto the roundabout from a nearby truck. I never read of any injuries inflicted during the process. It looks fabulous.

I would suggest that it would be clever of NZTA to have a close look at the lovely and permanent materials used at the roundabout at the southern end of Main Road Stoke where it intersects with Champion Rd, by the Countdown site. No more maintenance or cost required as it is a permanent structure. There are orange cones for Africa in the region that they could use to divert vehicles temporarily while the projects are

undertaken.

I believe there are many Nelson/Tasman residents who would share the view that NZTA needs to stop making excuses and get their act together to restore some standards to the entranceways to our beautiful city and region. It is also time the Nelson City Council addressed the roundabout opposite Garin College on Main Road Stoke, just like the Saxton Rd one.

JC Taylor

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To me it seems a simple solution. After the mowing in early December, it would be little effort and expense to throw on a few handfuls of wildflower seeds in each area. This would feed and shelter birds and insects, reduce carbon in the atmosphere, be self-perpetuating and make things look much nicer. Win-win.

Linda S

Have your say: sara@topsouthmedia.co.nz facebook.com/nelsonweekly

Bit of a coincidence, talking to a guy who worked for Berkett building company who built it in 1983, and Berkett contracting who demolished it in 2024.

Tony Smith

Does this mean I’m too late to return Star Wars on VHS?

Andrew Fraser

Bring back Video Ezy.

Antonio Whitworth-Chapman

Noooooo, lost memories.

Shane Bunt

Final weeks for Nelson’s Trade Aid

Love Trade Aid, great place for gifts and treats, always my go-to with birthdays and celebrations. Thank you so much for providing an ethical alternative for so many years, sad for not just Nelson but all of NZ.

Jacinda Stevenson

So sorry to read this. Have always purchased from Trade Aid for the yummy organic Fair Trade chocolate, and other items that can only be found in this store. A sad loss to our retail community. All the best.

Wendy A Cornish

Leon becomes NZ’s youngest pilot

Got my pilots’ licence at 17 too. Well done, Leon. In those days I got my full driver’s licence at 15 (so I could get to school).

Robin Whalley

Congrats, Leon. Such an accomplishment!! Know you would have worked hard to achieve it.

Sheena Bowring

Nelson Matters

Hon Dr Nick Smith

PROGRESSING NELSON’S HOSPITAL REDEVELOPMENT

Our Nelson and Tasman councils received a joint briefing last Friday from Health NZ on its work to address long-standing deficiencies at our hospital. The key issues are the earthquake-prone tower blocks, an insufficient number of beds for our growing and ageing population and the need to upgrade the facilities for modern healthcare.

Council is the regulatory authority for ensuring the seismic strengthening of the Percy Brunette and George Manson tower blocks is done by the legal deadline of November 2028. I’m encouraged that this work started in February and is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2025.

Health NZ is proposing a new, large clinical building on the Motueka Street side of the Inpatient Building to provide the much-needed additional beds. It will cost hundreds of millions. I welcome confirmation that the Detailed Business Case is expected to go to Cabinet next month – a year earlier than previously planned. Resource consent applications are due to be lodged with Council in early 2025. Early contractor involvement is planned to ensure it can be built efficiently. If approved in Budget ’25, construction would begin in early 2026 and be completed in 2028.

Some people are arguing for a completely new hospital on the current site. Others suggest a new site. These arguments ignore NZ’s spiralling debt and huge deficits. We also need to learn from the Dunedin Hospital mega project that has escalated in cost from $1.3 billion to $3 billion and is five years behind schedule.

All traffic islands and roundabouts should be concrete. Simple and no maintenance cost to tax or ratepayers.

Rowan Kerr

In Sweden, nearly every roundabout has a Husqvarna Automower maintaining the grass. They are a very efficient cost-saving device.

Troy HundyPlus Appleton

Stoke Video Ezy demolished

Bring back McCrae’s Dollarwise

Mike Heine

Huge congratulations, fellow aviator.

Trish Reynolds

Well done, Leon, I have the painting in my lounge of the Pigeon Valley Fires that you painted, all part of your love of aviation, great job, big guy.

Lee Corlett

Well done, Leon. A rewarding career awaits if that is your desire.

Lawrence Whetu

Well done, Leon. That’s a magnificent achievement. Wishing you all the best in getting your commercial licence later next year.

Dennis Goodman

So cool. This kid will go places. Heather Kelling

It would be impossible to deliver a completely new hospital by November 2028. It makes no sense to strengthen the two tower blocks and then demolish them. Nor does it make sense to write off significant buildings such as the Inpatient Building and operating theatres that were built in the 2000s.

The redevelopment of Nelson Hospital is the most important infrastructure project for our city this decade. We need a plan that is realistic and deliverable. We need more beds sooner rather than later. We need to ensure details such as good parking and access are sorted. I will be doing all I can as Mayor to keep pushing for progress.

Nick Smith

MAYOR OF NELSON

E: drivewayspecialistsnsn@hotmail.co.nz

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The team’s expertise includes designing bespoke driveways from scratch to restoring damaged and worn-out surfaces, offering a cost-effective alternative to complete replacement. “Over time, asphalt surfaces can become worn, stained, and cracked, which can lead to a range of problems, including water damage, tripping hazards, and reduced curb appeal. This is where our resurfacing services come in.”

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I Am Hope talks climate anxiety

MINOU JONATZKE

“I was a climate change denier” isn’t something you expect to hear from the key speaker at a talk about youth anxiety and climate change. However, the statement turned out to be the perfect gateway into Mike King’s speech about his journey from a sceptic to someone who is currently travelling 5000km across the country on an electrical motorcycle to raise awareness for one of our generation’s most pressing issues.

Youth mental health advocate I Am Hope launched the ‘I Am Climate Hope Tour’, which visited Nelson on Friday, in response to a New Zealand-first study it commissioned that revealed that climate anxiety is severely affecting young New Zealanders.

Conducted by truwind-Research First and Dynata, the online survey of 600 people aged 18 – 25 years old, found nearly 60 per cent of respondents consider climate change the most important issue facing the world and 42 per cent see it as the major problem facing Aotearoa New Zealand.

“This research paints a disturbing picture of the mental health crisis brewing among our rangatahi, driven by climate anxiety. It’s clear that their wellbeing is deeply intertwined with the health of our planet. Our Climate Hope Tour is about acknowledging these fears and offering hope and tangible solutions for a sustainable future,” Mike says.

Mike, along with guest speaker and

climate advocate Lucy Byrne, shared personal stories, including how Mike did a mental health course in a primary school and was baffled by how strongly the kids already feel about climate change.

He says it made him realize that it doesn‘t matter what he thinks, but the people who will live on this earth long after he is gone face huge climate change anxiety and therefore his mission is to do right by young people.

Lucy pointed out that it‘s not their goal to judge people‘s engagement with the topic, but that they aim for an open community that tackles the issue together.

As the room at Mahitahi Collab filled, more chairs were dragged out, a sign of just how many are concerned. Worried parents used the opportunity to raise their concerns and seek ad-

We’re upgrading and expanding the Emergency Department (ED) at Nelson Hospital.

Work will begin this month and is expected to be completed early 2026.

During this period, there will be no vehicle access to ED from Waimea Road. Instead, vehicles will be able to access ED via Franklyn Street.

Pedestrian and bus access will not be affected.

The main entrance to ED will be temporarily relocated 10 metres towards the Medical and Injury Centre (orange building). Please follow the wayfinding signage.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

vice on how they can best help their children deal with the stress.

Nelson Deputy Mayor Rohan O‘Neill-Stevens shared a few words with the audience to highlight how seriously Nelson takes this issue.

And while we do have problems to address, like private transport taking up 90 per cent of total household emissions (Stats NZ), our emissions are still on the lower end compared to other cities in Aotearoa, and Mike pointed out the pristine nature he saw on his ride in to the region.

Mike ended the talk with a strong statement: “Don‘t get caught up in the problems, try and get caught up in the solutions.”

Head to takethejump.org.nz and iamhope.org.nz to learn more about how you can make a difference for Nelson’s future.

Collaboration sought on housing

Nelson City Council is seeking to work with its Tasman neighbour, iwi, community housing providers, and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to establish a place-based housing partnership for Nelson Tasman. The partnership hopes to address the historic undersupply of social housing in the region – Kāinga Ora has an average of one home per 76 people nationally but only one home per 150 in Nelson Tasman. Placed-based partnerships provide a way for the Government and local parties to decide how working together can address the unique housing and urban challenges of their communities.

City centre infrastructure projects brought forward

More than $4.2 million worth of infrastructure projects have been brought forward by Nelson City Council. The works relate to the water ring main upgrade for Halifax and Collingwood Sts, as well as Bridge St between Collingwood and Queens Gardens, and a flood gate installation on the inner-city stormwater outlet pipe at the Halifax St bridge over Saltwater Creek to provide some protection to the inner city from very high tides. The works have been brought forward from as far as 2027 to minimise disruption to the city with other future projects, while making use of the more competitive contractor pricing expected in the current economic climate.

Nelson explores going-it-alone

The Government’s three water reform requires councils to develop plans on how they will sustainably deliver water services. Last week, Nelson City Council confirmed that it would consult on keeping the status quo for its water services which leaves the council solely responsible for three waters, instead of creating its own water services organisation, or joining forces with other councils like what had been mandated under the previous Labour Government’s policy. The status quo is expected to be cheaper for Nelson ratepayers than a Nelson Tasman, or a Top of the South water organisation, but more expensive than under Labour’s original Three Waters proposal which combined the Top of the South with Wellington and the East Coast.

Mike King during his talk in Nelson last week. Photo: Minou Jonatzke.

Nelson footballer cracks big league

STEPHEN STUART

The youngest player on the Wellington Phoenix books can’t wait to mix it with the club’s big names in the Isuzu UTE A-League.

Seventeen year old Nelson College product Jayden Smith signed his first professional contract last week after spending the past two years in the Phoenix academy system in Wellington. The first two years of his three-year-deal are on scholarship terms.

“All the hard work has paid off,” Jayden says, after finishing a training session in the capital.

He’s following in the Nelson footsteps of striker Jeremy Brockie who played for the Phoenix more than a decade ago. But Jayden is a centre back, converted from his midfield days in Nelson.

“I’m enjoying the switch more now after a few games,” the 1.9 metre defender confirms.

FC Nelson coach Paul Brydon remembers him well.

“He was big for his age and playing senior football here when he was only 14,” Paul recalls. Jayden was part of the Phoenix Academy in Nelson and was “spotted” by the academy director Rory Fallon, the former All White, when he was checking on the local talent.

says confidently.

Wellington Phoenix head coach Giancarlo Italiano concurs, saying he didn’t look out of place.

“He brings real physicality, his stature is ideal for a central defender and he has good foot work as well,” Giancarlo enthuses.

Jayden is not sure whether he will continue to play for the academy side or the reserves while he bides his time in the club’s system.

“I feel like a couple of years in this environment will do him the best, and by 19 or 20 he could be pushing for a starting role,” Giancarlo declares.

He already has his shirt number – 39.

“That’s what I wore in pre-season,” the former Dodson Valley resident says.

“Rory asked me if there was anyone that stood out and straight away I said take a look at Jayden,” Paul recalls proudly.

So Jayden moved to Wellington at the start of last year and mixed trained with his school studies at St Pat’s Silverstream. He is still at school but will be studying online now his career is taking off.

“I played three pre-season games with the Nix against A-League sides. It was a big step up but I thought I played well,” Jayden

While Jayden was born in Nelson, his family came from Stamford in Lincolnshire so of course there is an EPL side he follows. But Manchester United is probably his second favourite club these days, given the chance the Wellington Phoenix has given him.

Sport Start fund given significant boost by NBS

A Sport Tasman funding initiative that breaks down financial barriers to allow more kids to participate in sport has been given a significant boost thanks to a new partnership between Sport Tasman and local banking services provider NBS.

Sport Start allows more tamariki and rangatahi to take part in physical activity opportunities by providing the financial assistance they need to cover all or some of the cost of registration fees for sport. The fund is open to young sports lovers in Nelson, Tasman, Marlborough, Buller and Kaikōura.

Applications can be made through clubs or organisations that have registered with Sport Tasman. Each child is allowed two applications per year with the fund providing $30 per application for five to 12 year olds and $50 per application for 13 to 18 year olds.

Lesley McIntosh, GM Community Outcomes of Sport Tasman explains “Sport Start is a localised fund. To have a local organisation such as NBS support our kaupapa and

mission of reducing inequitable barriers to participate in physical activity is exciting. The costs associated with our tamariki and rangatahi taking part in sport is a real barrier for many whānau and Sport Start provides an opportunity to ease some of this burden.

Enabling youth to participate in physical activity is a must as the benefits to their overall wellbeing and connections are invaluable. We love that NBS

values this too. To say we are looking forward to our partnership with NBS, to enable tamariki and rangatahi from across the region to access and enjoy physical activity, is an understatement.”

NBS General Manager Commercial, Howie Timms, echoes the sentiment of Sport Tasman “We are so pleased to be working with Sport Tasman on this new sponsorship. We both see that this funding

will remove some financial barriers that will enable more rangitahi to participate in sport. We know that physical activity leads to better health and mental wellbeing outcomes, so we are delighted to be involved.”

To find out more about the Sport Start fund and how to make an application, visit the Sport Tasman website sporttasman.org.nz or email admin@sporttasman.org.nz

About Sport Tasman

Sport Tasman is one of 14 charitable regional sports trusts that support New Zealanders to be more active and healthy.

Their aim is to enhance lives through physical activity. Sport, active recreation and play are their key tools to enable this.

As a charity, Sport Tasman work alongside communities in Kaikōura, Marlborough, Buller, Nelson and Tasman to create and support countless physical activity opportunities.

Sport and recreation enriches lives physically, socially, emotionally, cognitively and even spiritually. It contributes economically an estimated $5.2 billion to New Zealand’s economy.

About NBS

For over 160 years, NBS has provided personal, business and community banking services to local people, offering a wide range of banking services including transactional and savings accounts, term investments, home and business loans. With eight branches located in the high streets of Nelson, Richmond, Motueka, Tākaka, Murchison, Westport, Greymouth and Ashburton, NBS is committed to serving the communities in which they operate.

NBS people take pride in providing exceptional personal service and use their local knowledge to make timely decisions for their clients.

As a ‘mutual’ institution, NBS is owned by their clients. This model allows NBS to provide meaningful financial support to the community through sponsorships and grants to hundreds of sporting, arts, health, educational, and environmental organisations. Over the last three years, NBS has invested $3.6 million back into the community. NBS is not a registered bank. For further information on NBS visit nbs.co.nz.

Nic Foster of NBS with Ed Shuttleworth, Sport Tasman’s chief executive.

New Wellington Phoenix signing Jayden Smith looks set to become a fan favourite. Photo: Cam McIntosh/Photomac.

Shuttersport.

Nelson College star returns to haunt Mako

STEPHEN STUART

What a difference two months made.

Canterbury halfback Mitchell Drummond had cut a sorry sight, shuffling around with a knee brace on, at Trafalgar Park as his side looked decidedly average against the Tasman Mako in round two of the NPC.

He had been injured in the first half of the competition

opener and since then the Canterbury publican had been offloading more pints than punts.

Fast forward to last Sunday and, rather than being eased back off the bench, the 30-year-old started and had an absolute blinder in the quarter-final over in Blenheim.

He burrowed over from close to the line to score Canterbury’s second try and then

laid on a kick for another.

The former Nelson College captain was subbed at halftime, job done.

His team went on to demolish the Mako 62-14.

That was a remarkable turnaround given Canterbury lost its last match on the road 65-19 to North Harbour just two weeks earlier.

Its All Blacks made a huge difference while Ethan Blackadder’s injury-enforced

withdrawal was really felt by an already-under-strength home side.

After winning eight of its first nine matches, including the Ranfurly Shield, it was a completely deflating exit from the play-offs for the Mako.

It was such a shame that the All Black selectors didn’t release Will Jordan and Tyrel Lomax for such a crunch match.

Mixed results for Nelson College players

STEPHEN STUART

Loose forward Kobe Brownlee won the bragging rights over three of his Nelson College First XV teammates at the International Schools Tournament in the Waikato this month.

Kobe was overlooked for the New Zealand Schools and the New Zealand Barbarian U18 squads but was the lone Nelson College player selected for the New Zealand Māori U18 team.

The side duly upset NZ Schools in the final match of the eight-day series in Hamilton.

Wearing the No. 20 jersey, Kobe was subbed on at the start of the final quarter and faced off against fellow college flanker Saumaki Saumaki and reserve halfback Oliver Gibbons.

The third of the trio, first five Harry Inch, was running the water.

The Māori hung on to win 22-15, setting off huge celebrations at the St Paul’s Collegiate ground.

The tournament had started so well for NZ Schools with Saumaki impressing with a hattrick in the 91-5 demolition job on Samoa. Harry and Oliver also

started in that same match.

The pair were benched for the much anticipated showdown with Australia, which the well drilled Aussies won 38-31.

Harry looked good with his trademark direct running when he came on during the second half.

Saumaki had a big workload, starting all three games in eight days.

A mention also for Nelson College prop Samuela Takapu who scored a second half hattrick for the New Zealand Barbarians against Samoa.

Mitchell Drummond had an absolute blinder during his first match back from injury on Sunday.

Photo: Barry Whitnall/

Kobe Brownlee won bragging rights over three of his Nelson College teammates. Photo: Supplied.

Milestone Homes Top of the South Speedway starts its “Biggest and Brightest” season in the club’s history, the headline show is the NZ Super Stock title on January 10th and 11th, arguably the biggest championship in NZ Speedway. The national event will be showcasing the brand-new lights that have been installed around the track over the winter months, the modern LED lights one of the major investments the club has made over the offseason. The club have been busy over the winter months, new seating from the past-Jade Stadium has started to be installed around the track, a long-term plan to increase seat-

ing and comfort with more NZ titles on the calendar in the coming seasons, the crew viewing area has been enlarged allowing for more public space. Milestone Homes have been confirmed as naming rights sponsors for a further 10 years, the partnership stronger than ever.

The race calendar packs in a huge programme over the summer season, with the opening meeting on October 19th featuring the Trackman Trophy for all grades, then Nelson’s biggest fireworks display lights up the sky along with the “Racing for the Kids” cycle race as part of the family fun night.

The Nelson Tigers Super Stock team has been reformed as a development squad that will take on Palmy team’s champions “The Glen Eagles” on November 16th, the Sprint Cars and Super Saloons make a return to the track on November 23rd, watch for Ian Burson in his new Super Saloon while son Jack will be in the 75n Sprint Car.

The Streetstock Tri-Series runs

on December 14th before a few visiting Super Stocks might get some time on the track at the Xmas Derby on the 28th, then it’s the DC Equipment NZ Super Stock championship. It’s shaping up to be an epic battle with 3x champion Asher Rees gunning for a 4th straight title, but there are plenty out there trying to stop him - will he find enough friends to help him, it is the

must-see event?

The T.Q.’s will light up the track with the NZ GP, SNZ “Competitor of the Year.” Jeremy Webb won the NZ title here last year, the most successful driver in NZ Championship history will lead a star line-up, a week after their NZ title meeting in Canterbury. The War of The Wings returns in February, the “WOW” series will once again be hotly contest-

New Show Home

ed with local driver Connor Rangi keen to do well on his home track.

The Rees Tour has been added to the PTS Super Stock Stampede, it will be an absolute mega weekend of racing. With the Rees Tour kicking off in Blenheim on Friday, Nelson have shifted the Stampede to Saturday night and Sunday afternoon to accommodate the expected 80+ convoy of cars that will travel to every S.I. track over a three week period. The weekend also hosts the Stock Car Summer Slam, Ministock Mania and Classic Stock cars. The season will wrap up with the “Queen of the Clay” Ladies Stock car event before the Easter Extravaganza on holiday Sunday.

The Junior Member's club will once again be sponsored by Nelson Towing + Salvage, memberships are available for kids aged up to 15yrs old, just $25 gets you a season pass and a Junior members T-Shirt plus organised activities before the meetings. The club have a Facebook page, and memberships can be done online or at the souvenir shop at the track. It’s a great way to get involved with the drivers and learn what goes on behind the scenes.

The souvenir shop will be stocking DC Equipment NZ Super Stock merchandise, bucket hats, shirts and Hoodies are all able to be pre-

ordered, along with a great range of other goodies, plus programmes, entry/membership/derby forms, it’s worth popping in for a look.

The regular entry prices for adults will be $25, seniors $20, kids 5 to 16yrs $10, under 5 free, while family passes for 2 adults and up to 3 children are $50. The NZ Super Stock title entry prices will be slightly higher, first night will be adults $30, family pass $60, second night adult $35, family $70, seniors and kids prices remain unchanged. Season passes are available, adults $300, family $600.

Tickets can be pre-purchased via the Nelson Speedway website or at the Richmond Mall kiosk, along with normal gate entry, it is highly recommended to pre-purchase for the NZ Super Stock and PTS/Rees tour events.

The meetings start at 6pm, the main gate opens from 4.30 pm (Easter and Sunday meetings will differ).

Nelson Speedway president Wayne Russ welcomes everyone along to the biggest season in the club’s history. With the NZ Super Stock title, the PTS and Rees tour, Coca-Cola fireworks, NZ T.Q. GP and the return of the Tigers, it promises to be an action-packed season, and we look forward to seeing you all trackside.

Stoke-Nayland’s new English professional Sam Elstone starred in the side’s eight wicket win over Wolves at the Māpua Domain. The player-coach opened the batting and scored 62 not out as his team chased down 142 with eight wickets and 13 overs to spare. Photo: Chris Symes/ Shuttersport.

RUGBY TIPPING

STEPHEN STUART

Nelson’s leading swim coach Glen Findlay was expecting big things from his two charges at the 2024 Tri Series in Hamilton this month - and they duly delivered.

William Seymour and Brooke Swan were part of the 20 strong New Zealand “A” team that Glen was guiding at the three day short course meet at Water World and there was added pressure on the eve of competition.

“One of our top swimmers from Auckland broke his toe in three places. Not in the pool though. He was playing basketball,” Glen says.

The 18 and under event was all about endurance with five matches, or meets, over the three days and the Nelson pair thrived on the big workload.

William emerged as the leading male points scorer with wins in the 50 metres freestyle, 50m backstroke and the 25m under-water swim. The Waimea College student also had three second place finishes. Brooke continued her outstanding butterfly season winning the 50m fly in a meet record.

And that tri series has been going for 24 years! While she was second in her preferred 100m behind a top Victorian swimmer, the Nayland College student set a new personal best time of one minute and one second.

Her goal is to go sub one minute and Glen says she is getting “tantalisingly close”.

“Brooke’s previous best was 1.3 so she is knocking the door down.”

She also recorded a pb in the 200m fly.

Brooke and William then combined in the individual medley relay team and beat the Australians.

“So half the IM team was out of Nelson,” Glen says with a grin. Although Victoria won the series overall, Glen was rapt with the way his team performed.

“You have to deal with fatigue so the times get slower the longer the meet runs. It is a good test of determination,” the New Zealand head coach adds.

Another highlight came poolside with 18 year old William throwing down the challenge to the Victorian and Western Australia, by leading the haka. After a couple of weeks’ break, the attention will switch to the long course season with Glen taking 20 Nelson South swimmers to the Wellington Championships at the Kilbirnie Aquatic Centre.

William Seymour, left, Brooke Swan and Glen Findlay in their New Zealand “A” strip at the 2024 Tri Series in Hamilton. Photo: Nelson South Swim Club.

Brothers in arms at table tennis nationals

STEPHEN STUART

The King brothers almost reigned supreme at the New Zealand Junior and Senior Table Tennis Championships in Nelson last week.

12-year-old James King captained one of the four local teams competing in the U13 grade with his younger brother Ollie, Phoenix Hollyman and William Robinson rounding out the group. The boys progressed through round robin singles and doubles play to make the “B” grade final which they lost to a tough Northland side. The Nelson team had only been put together a week before the nationals at Saxton Stadium.

“It was a happy team. We were playing new styles. It was fun,” James says. Also claiming silver was another set of brothers,

Josh and David Pigott in the U19 section.

The Richmond siblings paired with Dimitri Bell and gave Canterbury a real scare in the final, losing 4-3.

While Josh is 17, his teammates were only 14 which underlines the lack of local numbers in that age group.

hey were coached by former New Zealand junior representative Daniel Astle who won two gold medals in the over 45 section.

“He gave us some playing tips and the bigger picture stuff. We were pretty pleased with how we went,”

Josh says.

Carrying on the King tradition, the brothers’ mother Anna won three silver medals in doubles competition and a bronze in the singles.

A great effort as the Table Tennis Nelson President admits she was bit distracted as she was trying to keep an eye on how the event

was running as well.

“The last nine days have been really vibrant with lots happening. So many events. AIways something towatch. The playing level was amazing.” Anna enthuses.

She adds it is tough for the smaller regions to compete with the bigger ones like Auckland, North Shore and Canterbury but hosting gave Nelson the chance to field more teams.

“And we showed plenty of spirit.”

Table Tennis New Zealand Chief Executive Izania Downie rated the tournament scheduling the best in years.

“There were up to 300 competitors but the nationals ran smoothly. No dramas,” Izania says.

Anna is already looking forward to Nelson hosting more events with a women’s “Have A Go” competition set for the district.

30 years of footing it

STEPHEN STUART

‘Keep On Running’, a smash hit record from almost 60 years ago, aptly describes Nelson podiatrist Chris Gates. He lined up in the inaugural Abel Tasman Coastal Classic in 1994 and has fronted every year since except 2021 when Covid-19 stopped the iconic event in its track. So Chris was back on the start line for the 30th and final trail run from Araroa to Mārahau on Saturday. Chris reckons the conditions were almost too good.

“It was pretty hot, about 19 degrees,” says Chris, who cut out the 33km event in just over four and a half hours. Running on the sand makes it more like the marathon distance, over 42km.

It was a far cry from 1994 when Chris remembers miserable conditions.

“There were rough seas getting to Tōtaranui by boat for the start and then it was cold and wet. Some competitors were only wearing singlets,” Chris recalls. It didn’t deter Chris coming back each year. “I used to be competitive with top ten finishes and winning a few age groups, but now I’m older I don’t look at the competition,” says the 65-year-old. Does his day job help prepare him for the annual slog?

“My feet have been pretty good over the years. I did pull my calf once and still

lined up. I paid for that for the next three months.”

Another 1994 original was also among the 335 starters at the weekend, Lynda Watson from Hokitika.

And what became of the inaugural winners? Well, it turns out my brotherin-law John Knight, a former Ironman triathlete, won the men’s event with his Nelson-born wife Judy, my sister, finishing third behind her mountain running rival Andrea Devine. Final thoughts from my sporty sister sum up the enduring appeal of the coastal classic.

“It was so wet and cold we were given plastic rubbish bags to wear at the finish line. We absolutely loved it and came back and did the race again years later.”

Nelson runner Chris Gates was a constant presence in the Abel Tasman Coastal Classic. Photo: Simon Burge.

Friday 18th and Saturday 19th October 2024 from 10am-3pm. 16 Sargeson Street, Stoke, Nelson. Summerset In The Sun’s Arts and Craft market, showcasing some of the creative talent in our community. There’s something for everyone. The Devine Café will be open serving up delicious food and coffee. Plus, our creations from our annual Waste to Waist showcase will be on display. We will also have our show homes open.

Community Notices

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY

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

MONDAY

G & E F MACDONALD TRUST BOARD

(Established 1979 as a Charitable Trust)

The Trustees of the Board have approved the following grants for the 12 months ended 30 June 2024

Alzheimer’s Society Nelson Incorporated

Garden to Table Trust

Hearing Association Nelson Inc

Lifelinc Nelson

Loaves & Fishes

Nelson Multiple Sclerosis Society Inc

Parkinson’s New Zealand

Perinatal Support Nelson Inc

Presbyterian Support

Richmond Group Riding for the Disabled Inc

Whakatu Dance Theatre Trust

Whakatu Group Riding for the Disabled Inc

Grants made since incorporation now total $1,010,505. Grants

COMMUNITY HEALTH LECTURE: Advances in Cancer: Research to Improve Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment. Mon, 4 Nov, 7-9pm, Motueka Library. Reg-https://cancernelson.org. nz/community-health-talk/.

PHILOSOPHY GROUP Meet 2nd & 4th Mon of the month, 9.30am. S.O.S Coffee House, 42 Rutherford St. All welcome. TXT Zoe 0279741758.

OSTEOACTIVE, exercise class for participants with osteoarthritis. Mon, 10am, Holy Trinity Hall, 27 Dorset St, Richmond. Seated and Standing exercises. Exercise tips for osteoarthritis self managemebt. Ph: Nicola 0210788609. Cost Koha $5-$8.

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

TUESDAY

NELSON 50+WALKING GROUP, Weekly walks average 10 kms. Tues, 22 Oct, Centre of NZ / Branford Park. Meet at Botanics at 9.45 am. BYO lunch. Ph: Val 035481711.

A PARISIAN AFTERNOON with Anne Spear & Joan Holmes. Tues, 29 Oct, 1.30-3.30pm, Victory Community Church. Entry $4. Ph: Tracey-lynn 5469057 or seniorcare.victory@gmail.com.

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

STOKE CENTRAL COMBINED PROBUS welcomes new members. Meet 4th Tues of the month, 10am. Stoke Methodist Church Hall, 94 Neale Ave. Interesting speakers, outings, and lunches. Ph: Rosemary 039706872.

WEDNESDAY

KAYAK CLUB POOL SESSIONS, Wed, 23 Oct-27 Nov, 7.30-9pm, Riverside Pool. Roll/paddle instruction avail, kayak/gear incl. $5 member, no instruction, $10 member, instruction, $15 non member pool only, $20 non member, instruction.

NEW FORMAT LINE DANCING CLASSES. Wed, 6 Nov, 11-11.45am, Tāhunanui Hub. Absolute beginners 65+,morning tea; then Intermediate from Noon-1pm. $5 each session. BYO cup. Joy 02902089302.

LA LECHE LEAGUE NELSON Last Wed of the month 9.30-11.30am. Richmond Plunket, Oxford St. All welcome. Support and info also available by Ph/txt: Ruth 0272433469.

ISEL LADIES PROBUS CLUB Welcome to our friendly club, 4th Wed of the month, 10am. Baptist Church, Stoke (also coffee, lunch & book groups). Ph: Gill 035472134 or Sue 035486062.

POP-UP PSYCHODRAMA, Wed, 16 Oct, 7–9.30pm, Victory Centre, 2 Totara St. Come along and experience this lively method exploring personal, political and community issues. Increase your spontaneity and find new ways to respond to old situations. No acting experience

req. Info Ph: Ali 0272765992. Cost: Koha THURSDAY

WEEKLY PERSONAL GROWTH GROUP FOR WOMEN, Starts 31 Oct for 6 weeks, 10-12.30pm. Discover ways to live your life with more authenticity and spontaneity. Develop your ability to respond effectively to old situations or new challenges. Psychodrama will be used to explore relevant themes. Ph: 0272765992 or awatersong@gmail.com or to enrol.

PHOENIX RISING - a 6-week personal growth group. Thurs, 24 Oct, 7-9.30pm. Empower yourself to face your challenges and discover new ways to act in the here-and-now. Psychodrama will be used to explore relevant issues. No acting experience required! Info Ph: 0272765992, awatersong@gmail.com

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.

WAIMEA COMBINED FRIENDSHIP GROUP Meet 3rd Thurs of the month, 9.45am, Hope Church, Ranzau Rd. For Friendship, Fellowship & Learning. Ph: Denise 027765000 or Rosalie 0272491080.

FRIDAY

FOSTER CARE INFORMATION EVENING Fri, 18 Oct, 7pm, Richmond Baptist Church Interested in becoming a Foster Parent? Come find out about our Christian Foster Care programme. Light supper will be provided. RSVP Ph: Mika at Open Home Foundation 027461 0497 mika. ito@ohf.org.nz”

CEILIDH DANCE AND CELTIC MUSIC, Fri, 18 Oct, 7.30pm, The Boathouse. No experience/ partner needed. Door cash sales or book by texting 0221774870. Adults $15, 18yrs and under $10, family $40.

SUPER SENIORS @ All Saints, Fri, 18 Oct, 10:30am, 30 Vanguard St, Nelson. Seniors, do come and enjoy a fun morning with us. At 10:30 we present to you Morning Tea! followed by an entertaining hour of fun skits and drama with Acting Up! drama group; followed by LUNCH! What a morning! 12:30 finish. Ph: Gillian 5482601. $10 koha.

RICHMOND/WAIMEA RSA are meeting for a social gathering. Fri, 18 Oct, 4.30pm, Club Waimea. Ex Service personal and partners welcome. Restaurant opens at 5.30pm if you want to stay for a meal. Queries Ph: 0277127247.

WAIMEA LADIES FRIENDSHIP CLUB 3rd Fri monthly, 9.45am, Richmond Church of Christ. Welcomes new members. Interesting speakers, MT, dining out, outings. Ph: Bev 035441469.

SATURDAY/SUNDAY

RICHMOND SCHOOL’S PINK LADIES Jump Jam team fundraiser. Sat, 19 Oct, 5-8pm, Jump In. 3 hrs $20 per ticket, inc disco lights and music. See event on Facebook or Ph: Kate 0224799122 for tickets.

RELATIONSHIPS AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH: Sun, 20 Oct, 3-4.15pm. Get fresh insights and perspectives on how to form better relationships with everyone in your life. Join us

for a lively spiritual discussion. Ph 0211882036

THIRD INTERNATIONAL MEN'S DAY, Sat, 16 Nov, 12-6pm, Victory Centre, Nelson. Workshops, talks, yoga, dance, music, kid's programme, food and more. Meet other men, join a men's group. Ph: Hardy 0212132299.

WAIMEA HARRIERS Sat, 19 Oct, Mapua S + F 10k event. Registration on deck of Mapua Community Hall from 1.15-2pm. Registration closes 2pm. Welcome all runners and walkers to join us. waimeaharriers.nz for more info.

RELATIONSHIPS AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH: Sun, 20 Oct, 3-4.15pm, Nightingale Library Meeting Room. Get fresh insights and perspectives on how to form better relationships with everyone in your life. Join us for a lively spiritual discussion. Free event. Eckankar.nz.

LINE DANCING CLASSES. Sat, 2 Nov, 10-11am,Tahunanui Hub, 55 Muritai St. Absolute beginners 65+. Morning tea, BYO cup. $5. Joy 02902089302. NO CLASSES 19 Oct. COFFEE AND CHAT GROUP supporting people with Cardiovascular problems. Meet 3rd Sat each month, 10.30-noon. The Honest Lawyer. Ph: Lynne 0272603485.

GENERAL

ART EXHIBITION. For the month of Oct, the ART CORNER of Nelson Golf Club Cafe, 38 Bolt Rd, Tāhunanui. A new display by two popular artists, Karin Gembus and Pat Reid. Open to the public daily.

NELSON CATHEDERAL TREE FESTIVAL, Thurs, 28 Nov – Sun, 12 Jan 2025. Entries open e: christmas@nelsoncathedral.nz for entry form and reserve a place. Display your group or business to thousands of visitors with a decorated tree. Entries close end of Oct.

U3A – Interest groups and social activities for the over-55s. From quiz mornings to walking groups, digital photography to wine appreciation. Find like-minded inquisitive people who share your interests. www.u3anelson.org.nz THE NEW ZEALAND RED CROSS supports families of refugees as they settle into a new life in Nelson. We are looking for volunteers who would like to be part of the team and make a real difference in somebody’s life. Full training provided and time commitment is very flexible. e: migration.volunteers@redcross.org.nz or TXT John 0272235972.

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

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

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

RUTHERFORD ROTARY. New members welcome. Ph: 0211475357.