Nelson Weekly - 13 March 2024

Wednesday 13 March 2024

Basketball team looking for a funding assist

KATE RUSSELL

While they may be pretty new to the game, ten basketball players from Nelson Intermediate School are shooting for success - but they need some help from the

community.

The school’s boy’s team has been selected to compete in the South Island Primary Tournament in Rangiora next month, but at a cost of $300 per player, they are looking for sponsorship to get

there.

“For many of our students and their families, this poses a financial challenge, and we are reaching out to local businesses seeking sponsorship to help cover these expenses,” says coach and

teacher, Tony Jenkins. The total $3000 needed for the team will cover the cost of travel, accommodation, registration, and food for the four-day tournament.

“It’s an exciting opportunity for

our students to showcase their talents and represent our school on a broader stage,” he says. Around half of the team are new to basketball this year, and the

SEE PAGE 4

Nelson-Richmond gridlock, yet again

MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter

Nelson’s poor transport resilience has been demonstrated once again after roadworks brought the city into gridlock during peak hours for a week.

A stretch of Main Rd Stoke was closed to southbound traffic for resealing works from Wednesday last week, except on the weekend,

and was completed a day early on Monday. Southbound traffic was then diverted via Saxton Rd West onto State Highway 6/Whakatū Drive – the only other road linking Richmond with Nelson.

The works not only brought traffic to a standstill but also sparked intense criticism from many residents.

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith says the council was “stuck between a

rock and a hard place” in having to do essential road maintenance on an arterial route even if it disrupted traffic.

“The real problem is the lack of resilience in our transport network,” he says. “There’s just no room in the network for any sort of disruption without causing gridlock.”

While the road through the Saxton Field complex was used by

commuters to avoid congestion, the council urged people not to because the road was not built to handle high volumes of traffic.

Nick proposed including a plan to build a “vital” third road between Richmond and Nelson (linking Suffolk Rd and Hill St North) in Nelson City Council’s draft Long Term Plan 2024-34.

However, councillors ultimately voted down the proposal, citing

several concerns about the road, including its estimated $37 million cost as well as the lack of data supporting the project.

“Some have said there isn’t the evidence of the need for the Suffolk Rd-Hill St link. All the evidence was provided by the gridlock [last] week,” Nick says.

Nick adds that while the road isn’t included in the draft Long

SEE PAGE 2

Bawi Lian Thang, Felix Laird, Mason Kerdemelidis, Cesar Mosquera Bellaizac, Brigham Samuela, Bawi Tha Thawng Zaathang, Jose Mosquera Bellaizac, Te Amorangi RewhaKokiri-Dunn, and Keeley Redwood.

Photo: Kate Russell.

Who would you most like to have dinner with, dead or alive, and why?

“Roger Federer, to ask him how he views the current trend of tennis moving forward for the new generations.”

“My husband (Paul), he’s dead, so I would love to have dinner with him again because he was a really good and honest person.”

“Shane Jones because he seems to have done a reversal with his opinions into my side of the spectrum and he makes sense.”

“Van Morrison, because I like his music, and I’ve only read about him and not everything about him I like, so I want to find out myself what’s the truth about him.”

Nelson in gridlock, yet again

FROM PAGE 1

Term Plan, residents will still have the opportunity to submit on the plan when it goes out for consultation later this month.

“My preference would be to get [the new link road] back into the plan.”

The council uses two different methods to reseal Nelson’s roads: ‘chip seal’, and ‘mill and fill’. Chip sealing, the method used on Main Rd Stoke, must be done during the day to allow enough curing time before the sun sets and the temperature drops. In contrast, the mill and fill method can be completed at night because the asphalt is delivered to the site hot, but costs 7.5 times more than chip sealing which makes chip sealing the “most efficient option” for a large

stretch of road.

Work was not carried out during the weekend to minimise disruption to weekend sport.

The affected section of Main Rd Stoke, which runs alongside and provides an entry into Saxton Field, is often busier on the

weekend than during the week.

Rain early last week delayed the Main Road Stoke renewal for two days and had resulted in a slight overlap between those daytime works and night resealing works on Saxton Road West – the detour route for the Main

Road Stoke works – which started on Sunday and will run for a week.

March is a popular time to do roadworks because it’s not peak tourism season but still warm and dry enough to chip seal. Roadworks are often scheduled tightly to take advantage of the good conditions.

“Any change to the schedule can impact roadworks elsewhere, so it’s not always possible to continually push dates back,” says Alec Louverdis, the council’s group manager infrastructure.

However, Alec adds that the traffic management plans for both projects had their start and end times altered to avoid clashes.

Kolie van Zyl The Brook

Stefan Hervel Washington Valley

Sue Le Grange Britannia Heights

Jacoba O’Neill Wakatu

Cars drove through the Saxton Field complex to try and escape congestion despite council pleas for people not to. Photo: Max Frethey.

‘We could have done better’ $400k for road damage

KATE RUSSELL

Nelson City Council has approved $400,000 to fix roads that have been damaged by the eBuses before the onset of winter, including almost $60,000 for the plagued Jenner Rd.

In a report to a full council meeting on Friday, group infrastructure manager Alec Louverdis admitted that they had “missed a trick” in terms of ascertaining whether the steep and narrow road in Toi Toi could handle the buses.

“I think this is one of those cases where we could have done better,” he told councillors. “We thought we’d be okay, but we weren’t okay… we didn’t anticipate the damage.”

The eBus service launched in August 2023. Just one month later, parts of Jenner Rd were starting to crumble under the 18-tonne buses that were traversing up and down the road 48 times per day.

Alec says the route was introduced to “meet the needs of the community” and acknowledged that they found out “very early on” that it was not going to hold up to the buses.

“Mainly because it was narrow enough for the bus to use the

same wheel tracks and that caused double the damage in half the time.”

The permanent repairs on the road were completed last week, following temporary repairs.

The full cost of fixing the road was $59,000.

Road defects have also been reported on seven sections of Main Rd Stoke which will cost $70,000 to fix, Tresillian Ave,

the intersection of Princes Dr and Washington Rd, and a bus stop on Collingwood St.

Alec says many of the areas where they are experiencing damage are routes that are utilised by heavy trucks, as well as the eBuses.

“I think the combination in certain locations has caused particular damage - it isn’t a result specifically because of the bus.”

Jenner Rd suffered “double that damage in half the time” from the eBus in September last year, just one month after the service began. Photo: Kate Russell.

Basketball team looking for a funding assist

FROM PAGE 1

more experienced players have taken on mentoring roles.

“The skill level is pretty high, they are picking up on things fast,” says Tony. “Some have been training down here all summer ... and as far as school goes, it keeps them engaged, it gives them something to look forward to.”

Te Amorangi Rewha-Kokiri-Dunn, 12, says the tournament will give him an “opportunity to play against really good players”.

“I would use this to learn and get better at basketball. Basketball helps keep us out of trouble and I love playing.”

Bawi Tha Thawng Zaathang, 12, says it would be “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity”, while Mason Kerdemelidis, 11, says it “would mean a lot for him to play”.

“I’ve been training lots over the summer and want to play against the best in the South Island.”

Jose Mosquera Bellaizac, 13, who is in the team his twin brother Cesar, says this is the first time he will get to play organised basketball.

“I’m excited to play basketball with my friends and my brother, and I will make the most of this opportunity.”

Tony says that in return for sponsorship, they will give businesses a shout on their social media, school newsletter, and on the back of their team shirts.

The goal is to have the money raised by early April, with the tournament taking place from 19 - 22 April.

To help raise money they are holding a 3x3 basketball tournament at the school on 23 March for Year 5 and 6 primary school students from around Nelson.

If you are a local business or individual who can help the team get to Rangiora, or if you would like to learn how to enter the 3x3 tournament, email tjenkins@nelsonintermediate.school.nz

Valued at $45,390

Valued at $45,390

Record book spot for Jim

GORDON PREECE

Beating the sweltering Aussie heat and running more than 400km over ten days led experienced Nelson marathon runner Jim Kerse to earn a spot on the world record podium. Jim was 73 years and 355 days when he crossed the finish line of his tenth marathon on 20 September, 2022, while competing in the Magnetic Marathon series in Townsville. The historic moment set a new world record for the oldest male to complete ten marathons in ten days, with the previous record holder aged in his 60s.

Jim, now 75, says he initially missed seeing his face on the fifth page of the Guinness World Records 2024, after skimming through its sports section at Christmas time. It wasn’t until a fellow runner informed him of his rightful page place at a recent Central Otago marathon, and he was “surprised and chuffed” by his shirtless presence in one of the

most top-selling copyrighted books worldwide.

Jim, who’s a retired high school PE teacher and has competed in several national and international marathon events, says while the female record holder for ten marathons in ten days was 78 years old, no male aged over 70 had attempted the male record.

“I thought it must be possible,” he says.

“I like to set an example for aging, I’m very much against people sitting on the couch, and if I’m trying to get any message across [through this record] it is that the primal experience of being out there running is great.

“You may not be having fun when you’re actually doing it, but afterwards, the glow, the endorphins, and the buzz you get, more than compensates for the hard work you’ve done.”

Jim says the muggy Townsville air proved challenging, “walking into a heat pump” upon leaving his accommodation

for his 4am marathon starts, before the heat climbed to more than 30 degrees.

“For the first two or three hours most of the blokes wouldn’t wear a top, for the cooling system, but once the sun came up and more people came out it was time to put the top back on,” he says.

“My partner Lesley was sneaking away and getting ice out of the hotel across the road while I was doing these races and massaging with a massage gun, and I would also aqua jog for half an hour everyday.”

Jim says the new record took six or seven months to ratify. “You had to have signatures from several people, the printed results of the races, I had to have a JP sign everything off, photos of me on the course each day and a video of me finishing,” he says.

Jim quips he’ll now wait for someone else to break it, while he takes a step back from full to half marathons and competing in field events like shot put.

Jim Kerse is “surprised and chuffed” to be in the Guinness World Records 2024. Photos: Supplied.

Yacht club navigates quake proof course

GORDON PREECE

Aotearoa’s oldest yacht club is appealing for donations to hoist $500,000 to earthquake-proof its 35-year-old building by July.

The overhanging Stepneyville building which houses Nelson Yacht Club was indicated by a local engineering firm in September 2022 that it could be earthquake-prone after discovering a bracing shortfall.

Club manager Tim Fraser-Harris says the 167-year-old club elected itself to an assessment of the building, which opened in 1989 after it was previously based at the current Nahm restaurant site. The assessment found the building was likely to be under 34 per cent of the national building standard.

“[The engineering firm] basically said that the deficiencies were pretty clear and that the [earthquake strengthening] needed to be done,” Tim says. “Currently, it’s suspected to be an earthquak-prone building… the engineering firm drew up working designs and we submitted a building consent exemption to the council, which was approved.

“After trying to get all our other ducks in a row, we’ll put to-

gether the funding as soon as we can.”

Tim said the club had made grant applications to help fund the strengthening project, and had also launched a Givealittle page.

“We’re going to search within the community for people who’ve had a connection to the club to come forward and make donations, and we’ll do fundraising events to pull together the rest [of the funds],” he says.

“The club currently has around 420 members… and the facili-

ty and building support a huge array of different people who aren’t members, it’s a real community facility… it ranges to 4000 people each year who use it. The story is about the community saving a community facility and all of the people who are involved in different activities that take place here.”

Tim said, after a tender process a contractor was lined up for strengthening work in July, subject to achieving sufficient funding.

He says the work would be

done with minimal disruption to club activities and stakeholders like Nahm restaurant in the neighbouring building. “If we are unable to fund and get the strengthening, then that’s when we would have to reassess the use of the building and make the decision with the club on what happens next, we’re confident and very hopeful that we can pull it together,” he says. To donate visit https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/ strengthening-nzs-oldestyacht-club-for-future

Fluoridation requirement extension

Nelson’s directive from the Director-General of Health to fluoridate its water supply by 30 April has been extended until 31 December. The directive had been found by the High Court to be unlawful. While the impacts of that assessment are being worked through, the Director-General of Health agreed to extend Nelson City Council’s deadline so the council would not find itself being caught between penalties for not complying with the directive or legal challenge from fluoridation opponents if the council complied with the directive while its legality was still being resolved.

Plan Change 29

Hearings Panel

Nelson City Council has agreed to add another independent commissioner onto the hearings panel that will deliberate on the on Plan Change 29 – the council’s proposal to make it easier to achieve greater housing density. There will now be two independent commissioners and two accredited councillors sitting on the panel. To avoid stalemates, the deciding vote will rest with the panel’s chair, an independent commissioner. The hearings panel will give a final recommendation to the council on PC29, which the council cannot deviate from.

Club manager Tim Fraser-Harris says the costs to strengthen the 35-year-old Port Nelson building would be half a million. Photo: Gordon Preece.

Judge hits alarm button over looming end to alcohol and drug screening service

TRACY NEAL Open Justice Reporter

The axe is about to fall on a health-funded drug and alcohol screening service in the Nelson and Blenheim courts, which the provider says will put them in line with courts around the country.

Judge Jo Rielly told lawyers in the Nelson District Court on Thursday that funding for alcohol and drug screening reports was about to end, and invited lawyers to express any concerns to relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Justice, for the service funded by Health NZ/Te Whatu Ora. Nelson Marlborough group director of hospital specialist services, Lexie O’Shea, told Open Justice that it recently formally advised the Nelson and Blenheim courts that from March 28, Health New Zealand/Te Whatu Ora would no longer be accepting requests for alcohol and drug reports.

O’Shea said the change would put the Nelson-Marlborough region in line with the rest of the country as most publicly (health

board) funded addiction services had not provided these reports to the courts for many years.

A Health New Zealand spokesperson said the contractors provided the service in other courts, but not through the health board structure.

Ministry of Justice group manager, courts and tribunals, Jacquelyn Shannon, said in other courts alcohol and drug reports were funded by the Ministry of Justice when a judge ordered a report, or a legal aid lawyer commissioned a report for their client and requested reimbursement from Legal Aid Services.

“Where a report is sought by an offender who is represented by a private lawyer, the lawyer may engage with a private provider, and the lawyer incurred the cost of obtaining the report,” Shannon said.

O’Shea said that like most areas of health, demand for mental health and addiction services was increasing and client needs were more complex.

“Our addictions workforce is under pressure and we, as a service, need to focus on our core

business of providing care to our alcohol and drug clients,” O’Shea said.

Judge Rielly said most people who appeared in court had alcohol and drug addiction issues and they were at risk of missing

out on having someone advocate for them on this.

Nelson MP Rachel Boyack told NZME she was concerned to hear of the cuts with no clear alternative proposed by either Te Whatu Ora or the Ministry of Justice.

“The sudden end of this frontline service at the end of the month could mean that Nelsonians going through the Justice system miss out on something available in other parts of the country – I don’t think many people would find that fair, and I’ll be following up with Te Whatu Ora.”

Lawyer Steven Zindel, who was in court and heard Judge Rielly’s comments, said the situation was alarming.

He said the reports were cost-effective and invaluable in providing useful information in the sentencing process.

“If addictions can be managed or cured then that is one of the best crime prevention techniques that is available.”

A Ministry of Justice report said that abuse of alcohol and other drugs remained a major driver of crime requiring social investment.

Around 60 per cent of community-based offenders had an identified AOD need and 87 per cent of prisoners had experienced an AOD problem over their lifetime, the report said.

O’Shea said Nelson-Marlborough Health had been in communication with the courts regarding this change for some time now, having first informed them well over six months ago.

“We have offered the courts support in putting a plan in place for other report writers to continue this work.

“We have also offered to develop a pathway that would allow new report writers to refer defendants to our addictions service,” she said.

O’Shea said they were also working with the Ministry of Justice to minimise disruption during the transition.

Judge Jo Rielly, who sits in the Nelson and Blenheim District Courts. Photo: Supplied.

Devoting time to the past

GORDON PREECE

Sylvia Wesney has been devoted to volunteering at some of Nelson’s most popular heritage venues for more than three decades.

After serving at Broadgreen Historic House in the early to mid-1970s when it was searching for younger volunteers, she squashed her volunteerism to concentrate on her whānau and her role as a local and national squash coordinator.

In the late 1990s she returned to the historic sites court, and has volunteered at Founders Heritage Park, Isel House and Melrose House, where she is a current trustee, ever since.

“I think it’s something about being at the forefront of meeting visitors,” she says.

“They’re absolutely delighted that Nelson does still keep some of its heritage.

“If we don’t know anything

about our past, we can’t really enjoy the future and present, so that’s why I’m still interested in it, and I’m delighted that they’re all community owned, Nelson City Council own them, but they are owned by the citizens of Nelson.

She says she enjoys showing Nelson off to visitors and locals alike.

“It’s very nice selling Nelson, it makes you feel good, and the public appreciate it.”

Sylvia says the sites she volunteers at all had intriguing characters.

“The wooden part of Isel House at the rear was 1849, and that’s one of the oldest buildings in Nelson.

“And then the new editions were in the late 1800s and early 1900s, it looks like a bit of Yorkshire stuck in Isel Park.

“Melrose, which was built by a surveyor that came on one of the first ships, that’s the next

step up, I suppose you would call that a mansion these days of the Victorian era.

“[Founders] without fail, visitors, and especially people from overseas, are all astonished that we have such a good facility here in Nelson.”

Sylvia says she’ll continue giving her time in the coming years and she has persuaded more volunteers to jump on the bandwagon.

“We are finding it hard to get volunteers, and it’s probably because people don’t know how enjoyable it is, and it’s not strenuous, it’s only a few hours,” she says.

“I think it’s a lack of knowledge of what [volunteer work] entails, and some people are a bit hesitant to make enquiries.

“For me, I like that it keeps your brain going, I’m not young anymore so I quite enjoy meeting new people and just keeping myself occupied.”

Sylvia Wesney has volunteered at Isel House, Melrose House, and Founders Heritage Park since the 90s. Photo: Gordon Preece.

Nelson sailor finds problem solving niche with Navy

SUPPLIED

A childhood dream of a career in the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) has sparked a lot of satisfaction and pride for Able Marine Technician (Electrical) Dana Costello.

Growing up in Nelson, she had a deep love of the ocean and wanted to join the Navy since she was 12 years old; her father was a marine technician, and she wanted to be like him.

“I have a passion for problem solving, getting my hands dirty, pulling things apart and fixing them,” Dana says.

“Growing up, I had a great split of tomboy and ‘girly’ hobbies - motocross racing, pony club and ballet in my teens.

“Today I’m always out with my partner surfing and fishing and we have a self-contained van that we travel all over New Zealand in.”

She joined the RNZN in 2020, and after her trade training she posted to HMNZS Canterbury for a year.

Since May 2023 she has been posted to HMNZS Manawanui, the Navy’s dive, hydrographic and salvage vessel.

“I handle the electrical part of the ship, where we cover our planned and breakdown

equipment maintenance jobs, making sure all our machinery is safe and well maintained.”

Dana said her favourite deployment so far was to the sub-Antarctic Islands in support of scientific research

“I’ve had a lot of proud moments in my Navy career, including helping Fiji with disaster relief last year after a cyclone.

“I got to meet so many special people, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Someone who Dana said has had a huge impact on her journey is Lieutenant Commander

“I just thought it was so inspiring that a woman could be in that position and it gave me a lot of faith that I could be successful too one day.

“Clare has also been supporting me through my training and pushing me to complete my task book. It has been amazing having her on board as she offers so much to the team and is someone I can always talk to.”

Volunteer for CAB

Are you annoyed when organisations put you on hold for ages, then interrupt the music to say how important your call is? Or when you can’t speak to the local firm, but get put through to head office? Are you confused by the all the extension numbers offered?

Or when the automated voice doesn’t understand what you said? Even being told to ‘download the form from our website’ can be frustrating – especially if you only have a cellphone.

Although over 3 million people used our website last year, Citizens Advice Bureau understand most of us prefer talking to real people when we need help understanding complex laws and documents, printing forms or discussing ways to resolve issues. Our volunteers bring life experience and a variety of skills to their roles, and mostly live in the community they serve, using their personal knowledge and contacts to help clients. Last year CAB Nelson Tasman opened satellite offices in Motueka (Mondays) and Richmond (Thursdays) to provide more face-to-face client services.

Of course increasing our service means we need more people! Each year new volunteers receive comprehensive group training covering topics like their community, communication skills, how to use CAB’s systems, and become familiar with common laws (eg employment,

consumer, housing etc), while also completing several self-directed modules. They then share a shift with their mentor until they feel confident on their own. To keep up-to-date with law changes and topical issues, all volunteers attend a morning training once a month as well.

Our volunteers admit it’s a bit scary not knowing what they’ll be asked next! However, colleagues help each other to provide the best service possible and regularly say they enjoy learning something new every shift!

Because the 80 CABs nationwide anonymously record a client’s issue and what was done in response, we use the insights gained to speak out, make submissions and suggest changes if it’s found government policies and laws have a negative impact. Only CAB collects evidential data like this, and it provides solid evidence for our social policy work of making NZ better for all. If you enjoy learning, using your life-skills and making your community better for all, why not join us?

CAB Nelson Tasman - TDC Richmond. Ph: 5482117 / 0800 367 222, email: nelsontasman@cab. co.nz visit www.cab.org.nz

Gardening tips for March

Autumn is here and we are all breathing a quiet sigh of relief, while rain dancing. Summer was incredibly hot and dry, a very stressful time for gardeners. NIWA have predicted that the dry conditions are set to continue for a while yet.

On a bright note, we have a fabulous selection of Spring bulbs in-store now. Daffodils are a firm favourite and there are some truly lovely ones to choose from, including semi-double and double varieties.

Miniature daffodils are very sought after, especially ‘Golden Bells’, also known as ‘bulbicodium’ or ‘hooped petticoat’. These beauties are perfect as garden edging, in rockeries or containers. ‘Minnow’ is another delight, with white petals and a chartreuse green centre. Iris reticulata are truly gorgeous. They have flowers similar to Dutch iris but in miniature. Growing to just 10-15cm they are perfect in containers. Dutch Iris are a firm favourite too, especially as cut flowers. They grow well in full sun in the garden or containers and are easy care.

We also have a lovely range of Anemones, Hyacinths, Muscari (Grape Hyacinths), Ranunculus plus true English bluebells. When planting bulbs in the garden, it is a great idea to incorporate some Bone Flour into the soil before planting. Bone flour contains large amounts of calcium and phosphorous which

ensures strong, healthy growth and maintains bulb vigour. It also helps with the intensity of flower colour.

Our premium potting mix is the perfect medium for bulbs in containers. Add approximately 2 tablespoons of bone flour (or less, depending on the size of your container) to the mix before planting your bulbs.

As existing clumps start to emerge from the ground you can also side dress with bone flour to give them a much-needed boost.

Water restrictions are still very much in force.

If you are using grey water from your washing machine, dishwasher or shower, it is important to only use it on non-edible crops. Place a bucket in your shower while it is warming up and use this on your edible crops, once it has cooled.

Mulching is even more important now. We have pea, barley and red clover straw plus sheep manure pellets, Kinpak sheep manure and sheep wool available. Applying a thick layer of fish compost first will also help retain moisture.

Come on in and check out our fabulous range of landscape supplies. We are your one-stopshop for every garden project and we love seeing you.

Clare Talbot - the Marine Engineer Officer aboard HMNZS Manawanui and former head of the Maritime Engineering School.

Able Marine Technician Dana Costello developed a deep love for the ocean when growing up in Nelson. Photo: Supplied.

Take the guess work out of making better choices with a wonderful range of exhibitors showcasing fresh, practical ideas to improve your homes, outdoors & lifestyle

Landscaping, kitchens, solar solutions, heating, flooring, sheds, plants, builders & renovators

Health, beauty, well-being, artisan foods and more

Free informative 'Ask an Expert' sessions

Delicious food and coffee

15-17 MARCH

FRI, SAT 10-5, SUN 10-4

TRAFALGAR CENTRE, NELSON

www.betterhomeandlivingshow.co.nz

Enter your details and be in to WIN a rug of your choice to the value of $1,000 thanks to Choices Flooring!

ASK AN EXPERT!

Prizes to be won, giveaways and Show exclusive specials

Get creative with Resene Paint-a-Birdhouse from 11 - 2 Sat & Sun

“I’ll

see you there!”

Resident Builder

Peter Wolfkamp

Bring along your plans, questions & ideas & enjoy free daily sessions!

10.30 am

You don't need a home improvement project on the go to enjoy the Nelson Better Home & Living Show! Take a break from the shopping and enjoy a bite to eat, there is a wonderful variety of artisan goods, health, well-being and more!

Better Homes | Better Living | Better Outdoors

Adults $5, Gold Card Friday $2.50 Under 16 Free

Fri, Sat, Sun

11.15 am

Fri, Sat, Sun

12 pm Fri, Sat, Sun

12.45 pm

Fri, Sun only

12.45 pm

Sat only

1.30 pm

Fri, Sat, Sun

1.30 pm

Fri, Sat, Sun

Get Painting like a Pro Resene Colour Specialist

Kitchen Studio - Inspire, Design, Install Avesh Vather, Kitchen Studio Nelson

The latest Technology in Off Grid & On Grid Solar Power Systems

Lance Double, ESOLAR

Maintaining a Healthy Home

Vicki White & Manfred Plagmann, BRANZ

What Does Good Look Like

Peter Woflkamp, Resident Builder

Medicinal Cannabis in New Zealand

Shannon Norton, Head of Nursing, Cannabis Clinic

Extraordinary Design for people with Ordinary Budgets David Maurice, LTD Architectural Design

There is a fantastic range of trades all under one roof at the Nelson Better Home & Living Show! Check out builders, renovators, kitchens, solar solutions, flooring, spas, roofing, sheds, cabins, landscaping & more!

Bring along your plans, questions and ideas to the free Ask an Expert sessions! We are pleased to welcome Resident Builder Peter Wolfkamp to the Show on Saturday and look forward to hearing his tips and tricks on 'What Does Good Look Like'.

Shrinking media ‘worrying’

The rapidly shrinking local and national news media is worrying. Very few people under forty watch TV news let alone know the difference between uninterested, (which they are) and disinterested {which the News Reporters should be.) Media companies are losing vital revenues as it is getting harder, with dwindling audiences, to persuade vendors to buy advertising time during TV news or current affairs programmes. Newspapers have already suffered a similar loss of revenue. With young people no longer buying or even reading newspapers, and since the likes of TradeMe vacuumed up all the ‘small ads,’ many ‘daily’ newspapers have been forced to cut their production to four days a week or less and close local offices just to break-even.

For more than thirty years I minuted Council meetings. On the rare occasions when the local reporter was absent, politicians would often make the most inappropriate comments and suggestions that they wouldn’t have uttered if a reporter had been present. Without the independent ‘checks and balances’ journalists provide, even Prime Ministers bent on ‘sav-

ing’ public-money, would not be held to account and asked why they paid themselves $1100 a week from the public-purse to live in a house they own.

Andrew Rose

Hundred club with the golden guns

I used to shoot for Defense in the same old building 60 years ago. Well done, 100 years.

Alex Wingham

Burning bright fivedecade career

Well done. Great achievement and huge commitment to your community.

Grace Clark

Memorial tournament raises thousands

for cancer

A wonderful tribute for Callum. We are very grateful to FC Nelson for helping us to support those affected

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

by cancer in our community Cancer Society Nelson Tasman

Local Legend: Jodie Thomas

Well done, Jodie. Not surprised at all. I know you get as much from it as they do. #kindnessmatters

Wairua Warriors

Congrats Jodie! Scouts are very lucky to have you.

Mel Ricketts

Naww, congratulations Jodie Thomas, you deserve this.

Kim Willis

Thanks everyone! Looking for Kea leaders, so if there are any volunteers please get in touch.

Jodie Thomas

Nelson Matters

Hon Dr Nick Smith

MOUNTAIN BIKE MECCA

This week Nelson is hosting competitive mountain bikers from all corners of the globe for the NZ MTB Rally. It’s an opportunity to showcase the region as a great place for adventure sports.

The idea of bikes in the back country was considered whacky half a century ago. The law even prohibited their use in National Parks. Competitive biking was on sealed roads like the Tour de France or polished velodromes. Trampers and mountaineers initially looked down on mountain bikers as unwelcome intruders into our vast conservation estate.

The explosion of the sport from the 1990s has been helped by the development of wide-rimmed tyres, smart gearing systems, light robust frames and sophisticated suspension. The joy of riding is the combination of physical exercise, technical skills and connecting with NZ’s spectacular nature and scenery.

There has been massive investment by Government, councils and clubs into facilities and tracks for mountain bikers. I revised the laws as Minister of Conservation to allow mountain biking, introduced the winter season access on the Heaphy Track and ensured the new Paparoa and Pike29 Memorial tracks included mountain bike access.

Nelson’s network of tracks makes us a Mecca for mountain bikers of all levels. The International Mountain Bicycling Association certified Nelson as a gold level ride centre. Dun Mountain, Fringed Hill, Marsden Valley, Sharlands, Maitai and Codgers offer experiences close to the city. The Wairoa Gorge and Kaiteriteri mountain bike parks have more than 100km of stunning trails from beginners to experts. Multi-day rides such as the Great Taste Trail, Old Ghost Road and Heaphy Track add to the experiences on offer.

There are 120 competitive mountain bikers in Nelson, with 75% from overseas for this week’s event. The format includes six days of racing with riders being choppered, boated and shuttled around the region. I will be joining spectators for the action at the Waahi Taakaro Golf Club this Friday between 1pm and 4pm and presenting awards on Saturday evening.

Huge thanks to our Nelson Mountain Bike Club and all those who have helped. Bikes, mountains and adventure sports are part of Nelson’s DNA.

Nick Smith

MAYOR OF NELSON

“Firewood at its best”

Local History

The beginnings of beautifying Nelson and her city

ROBYN PARKES

The movement to form a society to take in hand the beautifying of the city was decided at a largely-attended public meeting in August 1911.

The new Nelson Beautifying Society, with Percy Adams as president, was launched with great enthusiasm and the future workings of the society looked bright. All classes of the community attended with a large proportion of those present being the younger Nelsonians who appreciating that their citizenship had some obligations and came forward to do their part in developing the city. The new committee suggested that the first area to be dealt with should be the north side of the Botanical Reserve with a working bee organised for the first Monday in August.

It was also hoped that during the first year work would be carried out along the Maitai from Bridge St to Trafalgar St. Also, for the stretch between Trafalgar and Collingwood St bridg-

es it was planned to make this one of the prettiest of walks, but a road was needed and had to be formed first.

A low membership fee was fixed in order to gain funds for the work.

The society proposed that the city be divided into four wards to ensure operations would be spread over the entire city and would also create some friendly competition.

The wards were formed – Brook, Waimea, Wood and the Port were suggested.

At a later date the Port ward was thought to be too big so another ward covering Washington Valley was added.

Sub committees were formed for each ward.

The Washington subcommittee had Mr W Gee at the helm as chairman.

The boundaries were Washington Rd, Hastings St, the Valley proper, one side of Russell St, then along the hills are far as Flagstaff Rd.

One of their first points of action was to approach the Council re-

questing that they fill in the land at the mouth of the valley as it was an eyesore. A working bee of residents was organised within a week of being formed to begin preparations for extensive planting in the area.

Holes were dug from near the Railway station right along Washington Rd to the junction as well as the other side, Hastings St. Trees were sourced and a start was made with planting the same evening.

Mrs W. McGee, wife of the chair-

man, planted the first tree being a Judas tree, a native of Southern Europe, which had shining leaves and bore red flowers.

Underneath the tree was placed a bottle containing copies of the Evening Mail in which appeared the notice calling for the formation of the valley committee and an issue of the Mail reporting on the meeting.

Other trees planted included Catalpa speciosa (United States); white birches; the ornamental Ailanthus (or Tree of Heaven), a

deciduous tree from China; the Mountain Ash (or Rowan Tree): flowering Ashes, the Liquidambar (or Sweet Gum) from North America, Dogwood trees, larches and limes.

The next activity was to improve the triangle located at the junction of Hastings and Washington roads.

The residents in Washington Valley ward were requested to meet at the triangle every Monday and Friday night at 6.30 for one hour’s work.

The triangle was opened on 25 October, 1911 and was given the name ‘Adam’s Triangle’ after Percy Adams, who was the society president.

Three trees were planted by the three oldest residents and the whole area had been planted with annuals in arranged borders. Games for the children were organised and afternoon tea provided by the ladies of the area.

A neat fence was built as a gift from Mr Adams and two iron seats were provided for visitors to sit and admire the beds.

Opening of Adam’s Triangle, Washington Valley, Nelson Evening Mail 1911.

Bringing a sustainable, home-like childcare centre to the community, Tōtara Kids Early Learning Centre creates a sense of family connection through expressing kindness and respect for others, the holistic well-being of an individual and the spiritual synergy of the collective, and the process and practices of protecting and looking after the environment. Located on Titoki Street, the point of difference at Tōtara Kids ELC lies in its small family vibe, says owner Elise Walton. Providing high-quality early education and care for tamariki aged 6 months to 6 years, the environment at Tōtara Kids is designed to invoke ‘feelings of home, inspire a sense of wonder and encourage exploration of the world’. Supported by skilled kaiako, children will lead their own education, extend their interests, guide their physical movement and build trusting relationships.

For more information on the centre and how to enrol, contact the Tōtara Kids ELC team by emailing: office@totarakids.co.nz

Grandma always made sure the grandkids were well looked after,

spoilt as only a grandma can and because she came from another era when natural was the norm, she always had a natural recipe for lots of things. This range of baby skincare products is based on this philosophy. Created with love naturally just as grandma would do for her grandkids. Natural is best for baby and in New Zealand we are blessed with many natural products we can use to do just as good job as the products using chemicals and properties not good for baby or the environment. We have used lavender, honey and many other natural

and sometimes organic ingredients to create a product that is perfect for baby and just how Grandma would have done. We hope that you will enjoy these products for all baby skin types. Check us out on Facebook – From Grandma With Love

Learn to swim through New Zealand’s largest swim school at Richmond Aquatic Centre. SwimMagic is a revolutionary swim school programme designed to give children the best chance of progression in the shortest possible time.

Small, family style groups A home away from home

designed to inspire

Magic Moments aims to teach the valuable life skill of swimming, through a simplistic, positive, and fun approach. SwimMagic has developed its programme with the intention of nurturing through participation, in a range of safe and enjoyable activities. The classes are a fun way to spend some quality time participating in a range of fun and stimulating activities designed to gain confidence in the water and teach water safety and emergent swimming skills. All activities are based around each child’s current development and

are also designed to help enhance their development in the three key areas: physical, cognitive, and emotional. Contact Richmond Aquatic Centre on 03 543 9755 to find out more.

Jumpin’s preschool time is lots of fun and a safe place for kids to run free inside. No problem with the weather at Jumpin! Our kids’ areas are always open and ready for fun. The playground with tunnel slide and bouncy castle has a preschool party area right beside it to have your child’s party in, all fenced and secure.

We have an under-8 trampoline area with their very own foam pit, and they are also allowed on any of the other trampolines if supervised, so can really get rid of that excess energy.

Our SPECIAL preschool price of $10 from 10am to 2pm during the school term, excluding holidays, is also an opportunity for parents to have a bouncy with their child for free. Great meet-up place for preschoolers to have a play time together while parents/caregivers sip on one of our barista coffees from our snack bar. Come check us out.

Think a new outlook on life

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

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

Love the life you choose

Retirement living situated on the scenic edge of Richmond

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

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

Morning Tea and Tours

Every Wednesday in March

10am - 2pm

Summerset Richmond Ranges

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

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

To see plans and pricing, get in touch with us today or join us at our upcoming Morning Tea and Tours. We welcome appointments seven days a week. Love the life you choose

OUR NELSON

WHAKATŪ

White Ferns take on Nelson

The White Ferns touch down in Nelson at the end of the month taking on rivals England in twin International T20’s.

• Saxton Oval: Friday 22 March and Sunday 24 March

Tickets selling fast tickets.nzc.nz

Intepeople's Business Women's Network

To celebrate the summer of Cricket, the Nelson Chamber of Commerce proudly present Intepeople’s Business Women’s Network with former White Fern, Katy Martin chatting about her illustrious career.

NMIT G Block, Thursday 21 March, 5pm – 7pm

$15 for members, $30 for non-members Tickets available commerce.org.nz

Women's Summer Smash Festival

Looking for a family day out? The Women’s Summer Smash Festival hosted by Nelson Cricket, a festival of cricket and a great event to fill out the weekend of Cricket.

• Greenmeadows, Saturday 23 March 12.30pm

Special guests White Ferns are making an appearance, 3.30pm-4.30pm so don’t miss out on an opportunity to meet your favourite players.

Find out more on Nelson Cricket’s Facebook!

Sophie Labelle draws a crowd at the library

Sophie Labelle, French-Canadian webcomic artist and trans-activist, has travelled to Nelson from Finland, via Wellington.

“I got off the ferry in my car and there were lines and lines of campervans. You don’t see that in the North Island,” she says at the Elma Turner Library on Saturday.

“It’s like they just appeared on the ferry!”

Sophie is the creator of the webcomic Assigned Male, which follows trans girl Stephie and her queer friends as they negotiate school, family and relationships.

“I started drawing it to entertain my queer friends at school,” she says. “I wanted to create something where a trans person was at the centre.

“I was the subject of some bullying, because of the whole gender thing. So, comics became a sort of shield. My friends would say ‘oh don’t bully her, she draws comics’, and the bullies would say ‘can you draw me something?’”

Sophie’s parents were both cisgender.

“They’re very active in the straight community,” she says, wryly. “Imagine being assigned a gender and just running with it!”

During the talk, Sophie explains how she deals with online hate.

“It’s called sea-lioning. When someone writes a long argument about why they hate you, you answer with a simple question. Like, what do you mean?

“It’s the least effort possible and gets the hater talking… sweating at their keyboards. It’s good to take the haters on the adventure.”

Sophie talks about how exhausting it is for trans people to have to constantly justify their existence.

“It could be so lonely growing up in the 90s. I was the only trans person I knew. What I find most rewarding about being trans now is being part of such a warm community. A group of people who all feel like me.”

The event was organised by Q Youth, a charitable organisation dedicated to supporting young queer and trans people.

“We had five or six young people from Q Youth here today,” says Q Youth manager Kayla Bafico.

“We know some young people who don’t feel like they will make it past 13, which is why it’s so important to offer them the opportunity to see a trans person who hasn’t just survived but thrived.”

Sophie’s advice for young artists?

“Don’t underestimate planning. I always want to jump straight to the fun part, but it’s heartbreaking when you start and realise you need to change course. Plan well, and then get to the fun bit.”

Celebrating and exploring the stories of Whakatū Nelson

Whakatū Nelson’s treasure trove of stories is set to be explored through Tuku 24 Whakatū, a collection of events, shows and activities that canvas the unique cultures, people, art and tales of our region.

The word “Tuku” was gifted to Council in 2021 and means “to share” or “exchange” in Te Reo Māori. It is an expression of our unique stories, histories and heritage, and reflects the value of biculturalism.

This year, Tuku 24 includes just under 100 events and takes place over six weeks, starting 24 March.

Andrew White, Group Manager Community Services says Tuku 24 is an invaluable opportunity for learning.

“Tuku 24 gives our community a chance to experience the diverse stories that weave together to form Nelson’s past, and in doing so, offers a chance for us all to deepen our understanding of our city, our community and our heritage.”

The opening day of Tuku 24 includes a celebration of the many cultures that call Whakatū Nelson home - the Multicultural Festival. Taking place on Sunday 24 March at Founders Heritage Park, visitors will be treated to an around-the-world trip by way of food,

musical performances, dance and activities. From there, a range of choices await. From chances to dig into your own ancestry, fatal fashion from the past, the art of horology, guided walks, tea tasting, concerts and woodworking, there is something for everyone. Events in the Tuku 24 calendar include:

• The Ki Ngāwari Kapa Haka Club’s anniversary show, 50 years in the making

• The Nelson Institute Presents: Nelson’s Autobiography in Buildings. A presentation and talk by architect, author, and artist Christopher Vine

• Ram Navami Shobha Yatra – Join members of Nelson’s Indian community as they sing and dance their way through the central city in a blessing procession

• Waka tours aboard the Hinemoana – Te Toki Voyaging Trust will be sailing the waka hourua Hinemoana to Nelson Marina, offering public waka tours and activities. Visit tukuwhakatu.nz to learn more. The full programme of events will be released 19 March and will be available online at tukuwhakatu.nz, at Council’s Customer Services Centre and the Nelson Public Libraries.

Public Notice

Nelson Resource Management Plan

Public notice of summary of new decisions requested and further submissions invited on additional submission points on proposed Plan Change 29.

Clause 7(1), First Schedule, Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA)

Nelson City Council (NCC) gives notice as of 8 March 2024 that a Summary of Decisions Requested for two late submissions received on 8 February 2024 and 4 March 2024 to proposed Plan Change 29 (Housing & Hazards) to the operative Nelson Resource Management Plan is available for inspection at the following locations:

• Nelson City Council Customer Service Centre, Civic House, 110 Trafalgar Street, Nelson (hard copy also available)

• Elma Turner Library, Halifax Street, Nelson

• Nightingale Library Memorial, Tāhunanui

• Stoke Library, Putaitai Street, Stoke (hard copy also available)

• Online: shape.nelson.govt.nz/plan-change-29

The original submissions are also available to view in full at shape.nelson.govt.nz/plan-change-29/ submissions-library.

Further submissions

24

MARCH - 4 MAY

Council Digest – 7 March Meeting

Tāhunanui Back Beach

Elected members have agreed to a plan to remove contaminated sawdust, wood offcuts and sand from Tāhunanui’s Back Beach, opting to reinstate the area with low-level dunes and build a new, repositioned car park. The overall cost is $5.8 million.

Increase to road maintenance budget

Additional funding of $400,000 has been approved to address urgent remedial works on key bus routes and bus stops before the onset of winter.

Funding approved for

Saxton Creek Stage 4

Additional funding of $400,000 has been approved to complete the Saxton Creek Stage 4 Stormwater upgrade.

Plan Change 29 hearing panel extended

An additional, independent commissioner, will be added to the Plan Change 29 Hearings Panel, bringing the

panel up to four. This person will bring additional experience and specialist expertise to assist the panel with understanding the hazard information put to them. The Panel will consider, hear, deliberate and decide on all submissions and further submissions on Plan Change 29.

Climate Change

An audit of Council operations emissions shows a downward trend. Emissions for 2022/23 are down 89% (since 2017). Mainly from reduced emissions from capturing and flaring methane at the landfill.

Car Sharing policy

Council adopted a Car Sharing Policy, which will support companies that wish to establish in Nelson. The policy allows free parking for car share vehicles for the first two years and lower fees thereafter for vehicles with the lowest emissions. Non-EV or hybrid cars can be allowed on a temporary basis but Council’s aim is to encourage EV use.

Further submissions are now invited in support of, or in opposition to, the two late submissions (948 and 949) received. Any person representing a relevant aspect of the public interest, or who has a greater interest than the general public, can make a further submission on submissions 948 and 949. Please note that a further submission cannot extend the scope of an original submission, it can only support or oppose the original submission. Further submissions on submissions 948 and 949 must be made in the prescribed form and can be lodged electronically by using the online submission form at shape.nelson.govt.nz/plan-change-29.

If you are unable to submit online, further submissions on submissions 948 and 949 can be made by downloading and printing a further submission form from the NCC website, or forms can be collected from Council libraries and Customer Service Centre. Hardcopy further submissions may be hand delivered or couriered to Ground Floor, Civic House, 110 Trafalgar St, Nelson 7010 or emailed to environmental.planning@ncc. govt.nz.

Extension of a time limit under section 37(1)(a) of the Resource Management Act 1991

The Chief Executive of Nelson City Council, acting under delegated authority has extended the time period for the lodgement of further submissions on submissions 948 and 949, under section 37(1)(a) of the Resource Management Act. The time period for lodgement of further submissions on submissions 948 and 949 is extended from a maximum of 10 working days to 20 working days, closing 5:00pm Tuesday 9 April 2024.

Within five working days of a person or group making a further submission on submission 948 or 949, a copy of that further submission must be served on the person who made the original submission, in accordance with RMA legislation. Submission and contact details for the original submitters can be found online at shape.nelson.govt.nz/plan-change-29.

Mandy Bishop, Group Manager Environmental Management

On behalf of Nelson City Council.

BETTER HOME & LIVING SHOW

Explore inspiration for Better Home & Living at exciting weekend expo

Take the guesswork out of making better choices with a visit to the Nelson Better Home & Living Show opening this Friday at Trafalgar Centre! This exciting three-day event has plenty in store for Show visitors with a wonderful variety of exhibitors showcasing fresh, practical ideas to enhance your living spaces, your lifestyle and your well-being. There will be Show-exclusive specials, expert advice and giveaways, and one lucky visitor will win the Better Home & Living Show which includes a rug of your choice from Choices Flooring valued up to $1,000, as well as a $250 Resene voucher!

Launching the event for the first time in the region last year, the Better Home & Living Show is about connecting exhibiting businesses with Show visitors looking for innovation, information and ideas all in one easy location. Marketing manager

Emily Shanley says, “The Show is the perfect platform where you can chat to a range of experts and check out what is on offer for your home, garden and lifestyle!

“Whether you have a big project on the go or just looking to make small changes at home.

“Talk to builders, double glazers and spa experts, peruse the plants, talk heating, flooring, or

health and well-being, or browse the homewares, and indulge in delicious food and coffee!”

“If you have a project on the go there is a real range of trades exhibiting this year. Basham Building are one of the local building businesses who will be at the show, passionate about creating energy-efficient buildings that have small ecological footprint and minimal impact on the environment. Chat to the team about how you can build a warm, comfy and low energy consuming home.”

Chat to Viridian Glass Nelson at the Show for all things glass! Whether you are looking to do retrofit double glazing, balus-

Chat to trade specialists at the Show for your next project at home. trades, showers, splash backs, pool fences, canopies or whatever your next glass project might be this is your one stop shop.

modern decor gives it a spacious welcoming vibe.”

Placemakers Nelson will also be in attendance, providing an opportunity for people to chat with the team about all thing's kitchen, bathroom and laundry.

There is a range of sheds and cabins including Just Cabins Nelson. At Just Cabins they like the idea of doing one thing and doing it well, so their cabins are built with quality and comfort in mind. Insulation, carpet and curtains keep you warm and dry, and the

“You don't need a project on the go to enjoy a day out at the Nelson Better Home & Living Show. There will be a wonderful selection of artisan goods whether you are

BETTER HOME & LIVING SHOW

BETTER HOME & LIVING SHOW

looking for unique decor pieces, gourmet treats, premium beverages or even treats for your furry friends, there will be something for you. Enjoy tastings at the Show, along with a range of delicious food and hot coffee to enjoy in the food court.” Hybrid Bikes will be showcasing their wonderful e-Bikes. High modulus carbon fibre makes for a super-light frame to which they have added a high-performance motor and high-spec components to create an electric bike for commuting, touring or more adventurous trail riding.Show visitors can enjoy free informative daily Ask an expert sessions at the Nelson Better Home & Living Show!

looking for unique decor pieces, gourmet treats, premium beverages or even treats for your furry friends, there will be something for you. Enjoy tastings at the Show, along with a range of delicious food and hot coffee to enjoy in the food court.”

Hybrid Bikes will be showcasing their wonderful e-Bikes. High modulus carbon fibre makes for a super-light frame to which they have added a high-performance motor and high-spec components to create an electric bike for commuting, touring or more adventurous trail riding.Show visitors can enjoy free informative daily Ask an expert sessions at the Nelson Better Home & Living Show!

“Visitors are encouraged to bring along their plans, questions and ideas to these interactive sessions, or if they don’t have any burning questions, simply just listen in and enjoy!”

“Visitors are encouraged to bring along their plans, questions and ideas to these interactive sessions, or if they don’t have any burning questions, simply just listen in and enjoy!”

Lined up for the event are the following sessions:

Lined up for the event are the following sessions:

12.00pm The latest Technology for On Grid and Off Grid Power Systems. Lance Double, ESOLAR

12.00pm The latest Technology for On Grid and Off Grid Power Systems. Lance Double, ESOLAR

12.45pm (Sat only)

12.45pm (Sat only)

What Does Good Look Like.

What Does Good Look Like.

Peter Wolfkamp, Resident Builder

Peter Wolfkamp, Resident Builder

12.45pm (Fri & Sun only)

12.45pm (Fri & Sun only)

Maintaining a Healthy Home.

Maintaining a Healthy Home.

Vicki White & Manfred Plagmann, BRANZ

Vicki White & Manfred Plagmann, BRANZ

1.30pm Medicinal Cannabis in New Zealand. Shannon Norton, Head of Nursing, Cannabis Clinic

1.30pm Medicinal Cannabis in New Zealand. Shannon

Norton, Head of Nursing, Cannabis Clinic

15 - 17 March 2024

Trafalgar Centre

25 - 27 Sept Fri, Sat 10-5 Sun 10-4 Saxton Stadium, Stoke Fri, Sat 10-5, Sun 10-4

2.15pm Extraordinary Design for people with Ordinary Budgets. David Maurice, LTD Architectural Design Studio

2.15pm Extraordinary Design for people with Ordinary Budgets. David Maurice, LTD Architectural Design Studio

All this and much more to enjoy at the Show, there truly is something for everyone. Take a break from the shopping and enjoy a bite to eat in the outdoor food court or get creative and WIN prizes with Resene Paint a Birdhouse from 11am till 2pm Saturday and Sunday.

All this and much more to enjoy at the Show, there truly is something for everyone. Take a break from the shopping and enjoy a bite to eat in the outdoor food court or get creative and WIN prizes with Resene Paint a Birdhouse from 11am till 2pm Saturday and Sunday.

"For full details on the Nelson Better Home & Living Show visit our website or 'Like' us on Facebook. See you there!”

"For full details on the Nelson Better Home & Living Show visit our website or 'Like' us on Facebook. See you there!”

10.30am Get Painting Like a Pro. Colour Specialist, Resene 11.15am Kitchen Studio –Inspire, Design, Install. Avesh Vather, Kitchen Studio

10.30am Get Painting Like a Pro. Colour Specialist, Resene

11.15am Kitchen Studio –Inspire, Design, Install. Avesh Vather, Kitchen Studio

There is something for everyone at the Nelson Better Home & Living Show.

Join Resident Builder Peter Wolfkamp's 'What Does Good Look Like' Ask an expert session at the Show on Saturday.

Treat your taste buds at the Show with a variety of artisan products.

There is something for everyone at the Nelson Better Home & Living Show.

Join Resident Builder Peter Wolfkamp's 'What Does Good Look Like' Ask an expert session at the Show on Saturday.

Treat your taste buds at the Show with a variety of artisan products.

Providing specialist services to the region for over three decades, Richmond Exhaust and Radiator Specialists are about to embark on a new chapter at a swanky new site on Main Road, Hope. "We have outgrown the current shop,” says owner Bradley Evans.

“We need more space and better access to keep doing what we do.” Bradley proudly carries forward the legacy initiated by his parents, Barry and Linda, who laid the foundation stones of this automotive business back in 1993. With his wife Malita and his sister Sharlane working alongside, Bradley says this is part of what continues to fuel his passion for the industry.

The new Main Rd Hope site offers a host of opportunities. With a significantly larger premises, the business can now expand its services and accommodate more substantial commercial projects, and continue to offer a comprehensive array of services, catering

to all automotive needs.

“We also offer full support for classic car engine upgrades and conversions, mig and tig welding, and work on all exhausts and radiators - whether custom, factory, vintage and more - along with all LVV Certification work.”

Richmond Exhaust and Radiator Specialists is not just ‘the best place to take a leak’, as their tag-

line suggests, it's a testament to the dedication of its team.

The passion runs deep throughout the family as Bradley himself has an extensive history with all thing's ‘motorsport’, his parents met at the stockcars in the 70’s, Malita has a Valiant and an early V8 Falcon, and Sharlane even has two vintage Chryslers of her own.

"It is always a highlight to keep a

small family-owned and operated business going and to provide our services to the industry, along with getting to work on some of the most incredible cars ever built - and being trusted with the cars to do so!

“Many incredible customers have become friends over the years, and being able to share and teach my children hands-on what I do

adds an extra layer of fulfilment. We are true fanatics with years of experience with classic cars, offroad racing, speedway, and circuit racing.

“We love all cars and have rebuilt and rescued many over the years! We are car enthusiasts – this isn't just a job for us!”

Acknowledging all of their wonderful supporters, Bradley says that he and the team are forever grateful for the ongoing backing from the community.

“To everyone, from our garages and everyday customers, and all the commercial contractors and logging crews for their support year after year.

“To my incredible wife Malita holding down the fort while I've spent countless hours getting the new shop ready, my amazing work team, my fantastic mates and colleagues that have all given their spare time and expertise to help in any way they can, my biggest thank you to you all!”

Have you ever thought about changing your drinking habits? Is alcohol starting to cause problems in your life?

Alcohol is the most commonly used drug in New Zealand. Unfortunately, it can cause problems for your physical health, mental health, relationships, finances, and spiritual wellbeing. Some people find that they may be drinking more than they would like to but are not sure how to reduce or stop. Some have tried to cut back but have slowly returned to higher amounts. Whatever you or your loved one’s concerns are, the good news is that there is free support available.

Where to get help:

Visit: www.alcoholdrughelp.org.nz to find local support. You’ll find free, non-judgmental information,

education and services.

Call the Alcohol & Drug Helpline 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 0800 787 797 to speak to a trained counsellor. The Māori Line is 0800 787 798, the Pasifika Line is 0800 787 799, and the Youth Line is 0800 787 984.

You can also look at the Living Sober website at: www.livingsober.org.nz for support.

Ideas to cut down your drinking might include:

• Plan how many drinks you will have before you start and stick to it

• Eat before you drink and while you are drinking

• Drink a glass of water in between alcoholic drinks

• Try having non-alcohol days each week

• Drink slowly, sip your drink

• Drink lower strength alcohol drinks such as beer instead of wine or spirits

• Let your friends and family know you are trying to cut back and ask for their support

• Spend time with people who do not drink alcohol

• Try an alternative drink such as ginger beer or soda water with lemon

• Contact a local alcohol service for ideas and support

Wondering whether you or someone you know has a problem?

The Alcohol and Drug Helpline have put together a free quiz to assess whether your drinking might be putting you at risk of alcohol-related harm. Head to: www.alcoholdrughelp.org.nz/problem to take the quiz.

Delivering

For more than 35 years, Star Moving and Distribution has provided a professional home and furniture removal service founded on reliability, security, and friendliness.

With branches in Nelson, Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, Star Moving take the stress out of moving by going that extra mile every time.

A longstanding, locally owned company, Star Moving’s Nelson office is located at 178b Tahunanui Drive. Pop in and talk to the friendly, professional team, who can help you with everything related to your move from furniture and contents pre-packing, loading, and unloading, to unpacking, storage and transit insurance.

If you require packing, Star Moving and Distribution provide trained packers that carefully wrap precious belongings in the most secure way possible. Whether it’s tube wrapping crystal stem glasses or hanging suits in wardrobe cartons, Star Moving can do it all.

The company also specialises in Piano, Grand Piano, Safe and Heavy Item moving, utilising tail lifts and specialised equipment.

All furniture and stored belongings are carefully itemised and containerised for protection and security. If you are relocating to another house, Star Moving will blanket-wrap all home furniture and effects and they will be securely stowed in a carpet-lined pantechnicon for travelling in the most safe and secure manner possible.

Household furniture and beds are placed in your new home where they are set up ready for use. To save clients time, Star Moving also offer an unpacking service and if you need storage, the company provide export approved fire and burglar protected storage warehouses in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Nelson. With a modern fleet of modern trucks and regular service runs throughout NZ, Star Moving and Distribution fully cater to daily and weekly freight services throughout the country which also works well for commercial customers, students, and Trade Me sales. To further assist with the home removal process, Star Moving kindly provides planning tips and materials should you choose to pack your home contents yourself.

Please contact us to discuss your requirements or book a Home Visit and written quote. Phone 03 548 6667 or email nelson@starmoving. co.nz. Owner Stuart: Phone 027 439 2580 or email stuart@starmoving. co.nz. For a ball park estimate, visit our website: www.starmoving.co.nz

National Champion Heads to Stampede

The PTS Stampede welcomes threetime New Zealand Superstock Champion Asher Rees to the double-header weekend in Nelson.

After winning the NZ Stockcar title at his last major visit in 2015, Asher has gone on to win the NZ Superstock title an unprecedented three times in a row and joins Nelson’s Craig Boote as the only other person to have won

three NZ championships. Asher will return next year to defend his 1NZ title when Nelson hosts in 2025 and the Stampede will give him valuable track time amongst a top line-up in preparation for next year. The list of drivers that have entered the Stampede includes 2NZ Blair Uhlenberg; seasoned racers Jack Miers and Dale Robertson; teams

racing legend Kerry Remnant; and up and comers Braydon Lennon, Jacob Buckrell and Tom Cooper. There are some legendary drivers attending as well including Ross Ashby, Bryce Vazey and Peter Field who have decades of racing behind them.

For some local nostalgia, spectators will be excited to see the return of Brett Nicholls and the ex1NZ 18n Harwood car that will be driven by Jay Holtham. Two of the biggest stirrers in Superstocks, Jayden Ward and Harley Robb, are attending and

their performance alone will be worth the entry fee. Add in the hometown heroes - defending Stampede Champion Shane Harwood, along with Alex Hill, and newbie Callum Russ alongside regular visitors Mitch and Jake Berry, Adam Groom and Hepi Paul who are all making the trip back to Nelson. There have been some epic final races over the past few years and this year’s line-up promises to provide an even bigger finale to the weekends racing.

The Stockcars join the fun with their Summer-Slam, racing as

pairs for points over the heat races. The top five teams then compete in a three-lap, teamsracing style run-off to advance to the final race, and to find the overall winners. The lead up was an epic battle in the allnew format with upsets and excitement right down to the very last lap. The teams needed to be fast thinking, adaptable and reliable to survive throughout the weekend. Some drivers who are usually mates might have to battle each other, and there will be no love lost in trying to win the trophy this year.

Riley Eathorne won with partner Dylan Clarke against some top teams last year. With Clarke out injured this weekend, Eathorne has the NZ GP champion, Wade Sweeting, as his partner and they will be a formidable duo. Roydon Winstanley paired with Jack Rarity, will also have one eye on the trophy. New club champion, Max Baker, will pair with brother Zak, and the fierce competition on the track means you could expect an upset or two along the way. Ministock Mania is the other big competition for the weekend. With the club already bursting at the seams, it will be a maximum field of cars that will battle for Mania Glory. Four North Island cars will attend and try to grab the top honours again after they had a clean sweep last year.

The Mania trophy backs up from the Christchurch challenge the week earlier. It’s a busy last part of the season with many of the major Ministock events happening, so the drivers should be at peak performance, and there’s plenty of competition to see who will come out on top.

The classic stock cars make their annual return for the weekend with a couple of new cars making the local line-up, while a fleet of North Island cars are coming down to rekindle old yarns from last year. They are running a North/South Pairs combo over the weekend. Competitors are normally handicapped by speed as a large number of the cars span many generations of racing, It's a great insight to seeing cars of yesteryear racing alongside their modern counterparts.

After having each other’s backs at the NZ titles and State of Origin, it will be every person for themselves this weekend when the Streetstocks hold their Open Club Champs.

As with all the major events, there’s always a chance that the action will only get better as drivers race for club pride and a few numbers get dusted off on their dashboards.

Racing starts at 6pm Friday and 5pm Saturday. Tickets can be purchased online via the Nelson Speedway Website and are also available at the kiosk in Richmond Mall.

Regular season wraps up for premier cricket

In the last week of action for some squads, Nelson’s premier cricket teams had contrasting results as Nelson College’s First XI and Athletic College Old Boys bowed out of the competition.

With neither team scheduled to play in either of the upcoming two-day and one-day finals, their season came to an end as they played out their last game for pride.

At Victory Square, Wakatu New World Nelson City (who are scheduled to play in the one-day semi-final) were too good for a Nelson College side who could only manage 77 runs for their 10 wickets, while ACOB piled on 309 runs in 46.3 overs to win by six wickets over the Wolves (Wanderers/Motueka) at the Botanics.

Stoke-Nayland’s run of strong form took a hit as they found themselves on the wrong side of the ledger against Waimea Toi Toi United, unable to match their 163/10 to lose by four wickets. Despite no batsmen crossing the half-century mark for ACOB, only two of their batsmen finished the game with single-digit scores, including a wagging tail in a well-rounded team perfor-

Movies

They’re on the Nelson App

mance. Having finished the one-day competition with two wins to their name, the result is a silver lining on what has been a tough season of results for the team.

Although ACOB picked up the T20 title earlier in the year, captain Ollie Jones-Allen said at the trophy presentation that he

would have laughed off anyone who said they’d have their hand on any silverware at the start of the season.

Despite having a team studded with representative players and intermingled with accomplished batsmen and bowlers, they struggled to put the pieces together when it counted.

But, their result over the weekend proved they had the potential, with a massive 300-plus total on the board and a strong bowling performance to defend it. While on the other side of town, Nelson College limped to one of their worst performances of the season on paper at the hands of

Wakatu at Victory Square.

It’s hard to find the silver linings of a team where the top score was 16, with two batsmen in double-digits, but Hogan Ward bowled well to pick up two wickets from 1.5 overs at the cost of 10 runs.

The Wakatu bowlers were just too good, with Ryan Hooper picking up four scalps, Lochie O’Hara two and Matthew O’Sullivan one as they made light work of the batting line up to put their team in a commanding position.

It only took 12.5 overs for them to chase down the 78 needed to win, with Dustin Emms-Healey lashing the final delivery to the boundary to emphasise the win. Wakatu will be back in action on March 23 as they look to earn their spot in the one-day final in a two-against-three playoff to see who will face the table-topping Wolves.

But the Wolves will not have the same opportunity to recuperate as they take on Stoke-Nayland in the two-day final this weekend, with action played on Saturday and Sunday at Marsden Recreation instead of across two weekends as in the regular season.

Sea swim ends in thrilling sprint

PETER GIBBS

Just when the male leaderboard seemed settled in Nelson’s Rylock Swim Series, young Marlborough triathlete Gus Marfell put a spanner in the works.

With only ten swims in the best-of-12 series, it didn’t seem that Gus had enough points to get above fifth overall and it was unlikely he could get across again.

However, on Thursday he made the long drive from Marlborough one more time. Swimmers faced an incoming tide for the first leg of the 1300m swim.

The conventional wisdom is that although it’s a little further, there’s less current close to the harbour wall.

That’s the option that series leader Hayden Squance chose and Gus went with him.

Terry Bone and Ben Marshall chose the more direct route, taking a chance with

the current. Hamish Neill was tucked in behind.

By the first buoy, at about 500m, Hayden and Gus showed they’d made the right choice, with a lead over the chasers.

Terry set out in pursuit as the field swam half blind into the setting sun, dropping Ben along the way.

In the final leg of about 550m to the finish it was all on,

with the three leaders giving it everything.

At the end it was Hayden, Gus and Terry, with just seconds between them. Ben and Hamish were next. The result moves Gus up to third place on the table, behind Hayden and Terry, but ahead of Ben and Hamish. In the women’s field, Lilly Claridge is a model of consistency, with 14 swims this

season. She came ashore in eighth place, side by side with Finn Bryant.

Finn is a clear season winner in the separate category for non-wetsuited swimmers. He’s also in second place behind Gus in the M16-19 field, but will move to the top if Gus doesn’t make it next week.

Jude Vincent has a clear lead in the women’s non-wetsuit division and also holds down second place against neoprene-clad women in the highly competitive F60-69 field.

In the short race of about 600m, 12 and 13-year-old swimmers dominated, with Liliana Perrett, Billie Maskill and Catherine Taylor separated by seconds at the finish. Sophie Pahl, Annabel Reburn and Grace Van Orden took out the next places. One week remains in the 18race series.

Full results and news at nelsonseaswims.co.nz.

ACOB captain Ollie Jones-Allen had a big smile as his team put in one of their best batting performances of the season, overcoming the previously unbeaten Wolves (Wanderers/Motueka). Photo: Chris Symes/Shuttersport.

Gus Marfell moved up to third place on the season leaderboard. Photo: Tom Young.

Halbergs: from community to competition

Joseph Tebbutt first attended the Halberg Games in 2017 and says the experience was invaluable as they seek funding for the largest team in the region’s history which is set to attend later this year.

Photo: Supplied.

JACK MALCOLM

The Nelson-Tasman Halberg Games team need your support to make their dreams a reality.

With the largest local team in history and costs estimated to be $1000 per person to attend the games in Auckland, the team is looking for funding to get themselves to the starting line.

With 15 participants and 15 support people signed up from the region, $10,000 has already been secured, but there’s still a long way to go.

The Halberg games enable young people with disabilities to participate in an arena with other kids from all over the country, giving them an insight into an elite sporting environment.

This event has been described as “profound” by families participating in the games, making connections and uncovering potential that may never be realised through mainstream programmes.

Joseph Tebbutt attended the games for the first time in

2017 and is excited to be going for another time.

“It was a really good experience for me to get involved in sport and connect with other people my age with disabilities,” he says. His mother, Erica Tebbutt, who is a support person for the Halberg Games, says the experience is invaluable.

“There are so many amazing opportunities and connections made at the Games and we are so thankful for our community’s support in helping the kids represent our regions.”

The Halberg Games, which will take place in mid-April, are open to anyone with a physical or visual impairment. Around 200 young people aged eight to 21 are expected to attend.

The three-day event is held every year, with 20 different disability sports, recreation and play opportunities available to the attendees and Paralympics staff on hand to interact and help create a memorable experience.

It’s also common for some of the biggest sporting stars

in the country to attend the games, reminding the kids that everyone started somewhere and they can achieve and conquer limiting beliefs or goals.

Despite the support the attendees have already received, with DJ Blair Kiddey and The Breeze radio station deserving mention for their support and Nelson Airport sponsoring a digital advertising campaign to help appeal to local businesses and raise awareness, they haven’t reached the finish line yet. Every little bit counts as the team cracks into preparations for the games.

A Givealittle page and a bank account through the Nelson Host Lions Club, who has been at the forefront of the fundraising effort, have been set up.

If you would like to get behind the team, donations can be made through the account number 03-13540596205-03, with Halberg in the reference, or also at givealittle.co.nz/cause/helpget-our-nelsontasman-kidsto-the-halberg.

GORDON PREECE

Six-year-old twin triathletes, Fred and Charlie Lumsden quipped they could devour 1500 Weet-Bix after conquering the Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon on Sunday. The annual event at Tāhunanui Beach Reserve served up a great start to the 1600 competitors’ day, just like the breakfast cereal it’s named after.

Six to 15-year-olds took the plunge, before saddling up for a 4km to 8km cycle, and topping the course off with a 1.5km run.

Fred and Charlie Lumsden, who attend Enner Glynn school, said it was their inaugural triathlon competition, which was inspired by their older sibling’s participation at previous events. The pair said the course wasn’t too difficult and they enjoyed high fiving the crowd on the course’s final leg.

“I would now like to eat 1500

Weet-Bix,” Fred says.

The twin’s mother, Mackenzie, says her sons were already raring for next year’s event.

Sanitarium national marketing manager Pete Davis says Nelson not only turned on the sunshine but served up “the finest people we’ve seen in the nation.”

“The Kids TRYathlon is all about kids having a go, and we have just seen so many kids look so excited as they’ve crossed the finish line, they look like they have achieved something really significant, and we’re super happy for them,” he says.

“We’re just so appreciative of the parents who bring their kids here, and the 200 to 300 volunteers who come here from the local community to help make it possible.

“We could not do it without either of those two groups, so from Sanitarium thank you to Nelson for helping us to have a great day.”

ROUND 4 PTS

Fred and Chase Lumsden brandish their first Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon medals. Photo: Gordon Preece.

Brothers Tate and Callum Burns prepare for their race on Saturday at Lake Rotoiti as part of the Rotoiti Powerboat Club Regatta. Competing in the club class for juniors it was Tate who beat his brother in the first of their races. Callum did say with a grin on his face that his brother had “no more skill, just a faster boat”. The brothers live in Richmond.

Photo: Steve Page.

Junior tennis stars sidelined amid coach contract dispute

JACK MALCOLM

Three high-performance junior tennis players have been locked out of training on the region’s only hard-court surface because of a contractual dispute between coaches and a local club.

Despite upcoming competitions scheduled in Australia, contractual stipulations mean Connor Edmonds (15), Ivy Scutt (15), and Charlotte McCashin (14) have been unable to train at the Richmond Tennis Club.

The club’s courts are the only public courts in the region with hard-court facilities instead of astroturf or concrete, which makes a significant difference at the high-performance level.

The Richmond club has an exclusive coaching contract with Z Tennis and its owner Kolie van Zyl. The contract stipulates that no other coach can operate on the courts, the only exception is if the player is ranked in the top five nationally.

The three young players are coached by John Gardiner, who has tried to negotiate a deal to coach them on the courts including offering $3200. However, the

Richmond club have said in a statement to Waimea Weekly it is simply impossible to allow that to happen.

“I understand the desire to have certain players coached by a certain coach at the Richmond Tennis Club, but unless they meet the criteria of the contract, this is not possible.”

Waimea Weekly understands other tennis coaches have similar exclusive coaching contracts at other clubs but are willing to allow personal coaches on the courts for the benefit of young players and the sport.

Charlotte says while it’s not as severe as transitioning from clay or grass, there are still significant and noticeable differences going from astroturf to a hard-court.

“It’s all really slow on the turf courts, they’re really old courts too.

“These [Richmond] courts are reasonably new, the ball travels faster, and I think it’s much more important to train [on].”

Connor says the balls bounce differently on the turf courts and the way you’re able to slide to the ball.

His father, Clint Edmonds, says

to the difference [in court surface].”

Ivy’s mother Georgie Hoby Scutt says these are a critical three years in terms of development for young tennis players’ games and it’s “illogical” they couldn’t make a solution happen.

“The kids are getting caught in a tug of war,” says Clint.

“We’re almost getting to the point we’re almost past it.

“We’re constantly playing catchup and it’s getting harder and harder.

“Time is ticking.”

Kate says Z Tennis was offered $3200 a year for the three children to have access onto the Richmond courts with the coach of their choice, but so far that’s been turned down.

Kolie van Zyl was approached for comment and directed questions to the Richmond Tennis Club. John Gardiner was also approached for comment.

it’s sad to see kids with potential miss out on opportunities because of something outside of their control.

Charlotte’s mother, Kate McCashin, says not being able to train on hard-courts is holding the players

back.

“These are the top juniors, and, yes, they can book a court and have a hit, but they can’t be coached.

“We go to tournaments, and it takes a match or two to get used

Nelson Bays Tennis Association was approached for comment but could not provide a representative until they had a board meeting on Monday, March 11, after the publication of this edition, where this issue will be discussed.

Charlotte McCashin and Connor Edmonds both say they just want to play tennis and the contractual dispute that excludes them from playing on Richmond Tennis Club’s courts has negatively impacted their development. Photo: Sara Hollyman.

NZ & English Paintings

Sell- Buy -Value (Over 30 years experience) @ Souchebys Antiques, 92 Bateup Rd (Adjoining McMillans/Alchemy Arts Pottery), Richmond.

Please Note the easy access & parking here at our new location.

Open Mon - Sat. ph 03 544 0723 or 021 417 413 www.antiquesnewzealand.co.nz

Do you love the thrill of a sale? Does the thought of working in a fast-paced industry sound exciting?

Then we want to hear from you.

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

The right candidate will be tenacious, hard working, honest and not afraid to cold call clients. Experience in sales isn’t necessary but is an advantage.

If this sounds like you, we’d like to hear from you.

Email andrew@topsouthmedia.co.nz

www.topsouthmedia.co.nz

Community Notices

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY

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

MONDAY

ACTIVE STRENGTH/BALANCE CLASS: Also seated options presented. Mon, 1pm. Tāhunanui Community Hub, Muritai St. ACC accredited provider. Get fitter to great music.

Ph: Shirley 035471433 / 0211218023.

HIRA COMMUNITY PLAYGROUP Mon during term time, 1-3pm. Hira Kindergarten. Cost $5 per term, includes children's afternoon tea.

THURSDAY

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

gold coin Koha to Able TAS Kids - a local group of kids with physical challenges who are putting a team together to attend the Haalberg games in Auckland. Ph: 02102465396.

HIGGINS HERITAGE PARK, Sun, 17 Mar, 10am-3pm, 222 Pigeon Valley Rd Wakefield. Jigger & Honey Barrell rides, model trains & museum sheds open. A great place for a picnic. www.higginsheritagepark.co.nz

Ph. 541-0820 / 021 120 1314

Ph. 541-0820 / 021 120 1314

DEATH

(Jessop)

Lois Anna

12/11/1942 – 2/3/2024

Dearly beloved wife of the late David. Mother and mother-in-law to Chris, the late Marty, Rosie and Dave, Tim and Debbie, Lisa and James. Loved Mother, Sister, Aunty, Grammie and Nan. Thanks kindly to Summerset Stoke. A private service has been held. Messages to 66c Kingsford Drive, Stoke, 7011.

ANNIVERSARY

Your announcement here for FREE

BIRTH

Your announcement here for FREE

as the famous saying goes. “Many hands make light work”

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

Ph: 035450224.

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

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

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

TUESDAY

WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ: Tues, 19 Mar, 1011.30am, McCashin’s, Stoke. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities, and services. www.wellby.org.nz. Ph: 035467681.

NELSON 50+ WALKING GROUP, Tues, 19 Mar, Baton Swingbridge. If carpooling meet 8.30am at Ben Cooper Park, West Ave, Richmond. Alternatively, meet at Tapawera/ Baton Road at 9.45. BYO lunch. Ph: Haydn 027248 8064

NZ CHRISTIAN WRITERS NELSON GROUP

Tues, 19 Mar, 1-4pm, Richmond Baptist Church Lounge. Open to writers at all stages from wanna-be writers to published authors of all ages and whatever genre you use. For info Ph: Kay 0275476777 or e: kaypeterson4@ xtra.co.nz.

STOKE TAHUNANUI MEN’S CLUB welcomes new members. Meet 3rd Tues of the month, 10am. 5 Burrough Pl, Enner Glynn. With guest speaker. Regular outings and activities. Ph: Ian 0211482580.

COFFEE & CROSS Want to talk to some about God, religion, church or your beliefs. I will listen, come & talk. No catch. Join me for coffee, 11-12 Tuesdays at ZUMO'S. Rev. Gordon, wearing a Cross & Coller.

WEDNESDAY

POP-UP PSYCHODRAMA, Wed, 20 Mar, 7-9.30pm, Victory Centre, 2 Totara St, Toi Toi. Come along and experience this lively method exploring personal, political and community issues. Led by an experienced psychodrama practitioner. No acting experience required! More info Ph: Ali 027276 5992.

CAKE DECORATORS meeting, Wed, 20 Mar, Come and learn how to make a 2D Easter Bunny out of sugar paste. Your 2D Easter Bunny can sit on the side of your cake or lie flat on top of your cake. Ph: Desiree 0276302359

STOKE TAHUNANUI LADIES’ REBUS CLUB welcomes new ladies to come along and enjoy fun fellowship and friendship. 3rd Wed of the month, 9.45am, Nelson Golf Club Bolt Rd. Ph: Pamela 0276758874.

NELSON CITY PROBUS CLUB welcome both men and women. Meet 2nd Thurs of the month (Feb thru to Nov), 10am. Nelson Golf Club, 38 Bolt Rd, Tāhunanui. Programme varies monthly. e: nelsoncitygroupgmail.com.

HOT LUNCHTIME MEALS on Wed 12.30pm, Mon and Thurs, 5.30pm. Sit in the warmth and be served by the Loaves & Fishes team in the hall behind the church at 30 Vanguard St. $3 cash or buy a prepay card, two meals for $5 or five for $10. Enq Ph: 0272977383

NEW NELSON TAI CHI CLASS with Gretchen. Thurs mornings. ACC-approved falls prevention, strength, and balance instructor. e: kitesfun@gmail.com or Ph: 03548 8707 for info.

KEEP ACTIVE, STRENGTH, BALANCE, and general fitness. Thurs, 9.15am. Holy Trinity Hall, 27 Dorset St. All ages welcome. Standing and seated options, resistance bands, circuits. Ph: Nicola 0210788609 nicola.rae.11@gmail. com.

FRIDAY

SUPER SENIORS, Fri, 15 Mar, 10.3012.30pm, All Saints Church, 30 Vanguard St. All Senior’s welcome. $10 koha appreciated. Morning tea and lunch provided. (Gold coin if just staying for M-tea + speaker). Speaker: For more info: Ph: Gillian|Lisette 5482601.

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

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

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

COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE, Fri, 9 -11.30am, Victory Community Centre. Designed to make treatment affordable and accessible for all. Dress comfortably in loose fitting clothing so you can roll up your pants and sleeves. Cost: Sliding Scale - $5 - $40.

SATURDAY/SUNDAY

QUALITY CRAFTS NELSON, Sat, 16 Mar, 8am-noon, Richmond Baptist Church, 123 Salibury Rd. Walk through the Boot Market to the Church Lounge to find us. We have a wide selection of quality local handmade crafts with something suitable for everyone! Ph: Kay 0275476777 for info.

PRETTY CRAFTY EASTER MARKET, Sun, 17 Mar, 10am-2pm Richmond Town Hall. Local crafts, music & kids Easter Egg Hunt. Entry by

CALLING ALL FORMER WEST COASTERS You are invited to attend a special Service. Sun, 19 May, 10am, Nelson Tasman Methodist Parish church, 94 Neale Ave Stoke. Ian Davidson ex Hokitika will be the guest speaker. More info contact Shona McLean e: shona.mclean138@ gmail.com or Paul Tregurtha P: 5464358.

GENERAL

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

ART EXHIBITION. During Mar, there is a stunning display of works by Virginia Watson, a local Nelson artist. Art Corner, Nelson Golf Club Cafe, 38 Bolt Rd, Tāhunanui. Her work features South Island Landscapes and Leggy, beaky, shore birds. This will be in the Open to the public daily.

RICHMOND INDOOR/OUTDOOR MARKET

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

ARE YOU A CHRISTIAN wanting to make a difference in the life of a child? We are looking for caring Christian people who are willing to open their home to care for a child/young person. To find out more, Ph: Mika at Open Home Foundation 0274610497 mika.ito@ohf. org.nz”

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS - Is alcohol causing problems for you in your life? Want to stop drinking but can't? Maybe we can help. Support meetings every day. Ph: 0800aaworks 08002296757.

FEELING SAD, STRESSED, DEPRESSED, OR STUCK? Identify and explore new ways to move forward with a Life Linc Counsellor. Up to 10 face to face counselling sessions available now for individuals and couples. Ph: 035482400 or lifelinc.co.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: Michael 0212098311.

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

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