Tākaka dominate firefighter challenge
SARA HOLLYMAN
The region’s fire fighters pitted themselves against each other in a race of determination and strength on Saturday for the
Nelson Marlborough Provincial Firefighter Challenge.
However, it was Tākaka Brigade’s 39ers that emerged victorious. The challenge involved a course of physicality which included
Rival orchard workers take to volleyball courts
STEPHEN STUART
More than 20 teams of RSE workers battled it out in the second annual Kono-Whakatu Volleyball Tour nament at Saxtons Stadium earlier this month. Orchards were limited to a maximum of two teams, and some competitors had already worked in the morning before arriving to compete in the round robin event.
The players are from Samoa, Tonga and Vanuatu, and are in the region working as part of the Rec ognised Seasonal Employer scheme.
“There was a really good vibe, and it was a good chance to get to know each other better before the season gets busy,” says Josh Kutu, who looks after pacific workers’ mental health and makes sure they feel safe and happy while here.
Birdhurst and Golden Bay Fruit’s RSE coordinator/pastoral care, Tito Elisara, says as a company they are big advocates for workers getting involved in things outside of work.
“We have been involved every year and had two teams enter this year,” he says.
SEE PAGE 20
running up four-storeys of stairs wearing a full firefighters kit and breathing apparatus, hoisting a 20kg hose pack up the same tower, running a slalom course, running out a charged hose and
busting through doors to hit a target with the water beam, before dragging an 80kg dummy 30 metres backwards.
Competitors could enter as a team, individual or tandem.
PAGE 2
Ofiso Paulo was in smashing form as his Cederman Brothers A side took out the Kono-Whakatū RSE Volleyball Tournament at Saxton Court. Photo: Barry Whitnall/Shuttersport.
Previous Open Men’s winner, Tākaka volunteer fire Sam Goffriller, says he enjoys the physical and social side of the event.
SEE
Tākaka Volunteer firefighters and 39ers teammates Sam Goffriller, left, Kyle Gardiner, Greg Fellowes, Hannah Sproston, Millie Fellowes, Grant Lawrence and Gards (Neil Gardiner). Photo: Sara Hollyman.
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Tākaka dominate firefighter challenge
FROM PAGE 1
Although he didn’t have any aspirations of a time he would like to complete the course – “Just to beat Kyle”, was the only goal. In completely healthy competition with his fellow firefighter Kyle Gardiner, when Kyle was asked the same question, his response was “Just beat Sam”. There was even word on the street that Kyle shaved his mullet off to help him take out the win.
There can however, be only one winner, and this time was Sam’s turn. He took out the Open Mens Category with a winning time of 1min 13 sec 22. It was just 1.5
seconds faster than Kyle’s time of 1min 14 seconds.84, although Kyle earned himself a five second penalty taking his second place time to 1min 19 seconds.
Takaka 39ers also took out first place in the relay race with a time of 1min 8 sec.28, six seconds faster than their Blenheim Bandit counterparts, who placed second.
It’s a familiar spot for the Tākaka Brigade who have worked to become the most elite team in the region. A Tākaka name now features on seven of the eight winning plaques on the Open Mens’ trophy.
The event, run by the Nelson
Marlborough Provincial Fire Association, is a pre-cursor for more elite events run by the United Fire Brigades Association. As if to remind the competitors that they were, in fact, competing in a work-related event as an extra-curricular activity, just minutes before the start of the race, a resounding scream of pagers rang out across the car park, as members of the Stoke brigade grabbed their gear to race to a real-life emergency, which turned out to be a false alarm for a smoke system activation at a nearby Monaco business.
Stoke brigade hosted this year’s event.
Volunteer brigade member Jamie Foskett says the sport has developed into a “real community” with Saturday’s event drawing teams from the Queenstown and Gisborne fire brigades.
“It’s the most supportive environment I’ve ever seen,” he says. “It is one of those sports with all the top elite people helping all those starting out, there are no egos, which is just incredible.” Jamie wanted to thank Pic’s Peanut Butter for giving them their car park for the day and cafe that opened especially for them, Waimea Scaffold and Nayland Scaffold for the tower and all the others that contributed.
‘No slack’ swivels snapper
“Lift and wind with no slack” is 12-year-old Savanah Milne from Riwaka’s tried-and-true technique for angling in the bountiful Tākaka waters.
She’s been hooked since she was one week old and cites her father George for acting as a rudder to tip the scales in her favour at her fourth Motueka Memorial RSA Fishing Competition, which was held between 7 and 9 February. A snapper, gurnard and spotty were her yield this year, and some made their new home in the smoker.
Savanah was one of the re cord-breaking 270 young and old fishers who tried their casting luck in the Top of the South briny for the three-day showpiece.
The favourable weather and sea conditions were echoed by those at Sunday’s weigh-in which wound up the competition, and they could have been the lure to the large entrant school.
Motueka RSA Fishing Club president Daniel Hovenden says the conditions also delivered an influx of anglers accessing Top of the South deepwater spots.
“A lot of groper have been entered this year, most we’ve had in a while, and mostly that has to do with weather conditions for peo-
ple being able to get over the West Coast,” he says.
“I think our advertising on Facebook has done a good job… and it’s good to see especially a lot of the returning guys, and a lot of them have said that it’s one of the
better competitions that they’ve entered.
“It just proves with them coming back and the sponsors coming on board, we’re getting bigger and bigger every year.”
Daniel says more than $20,000
worth of prizes were awarded across junior and adult categories. Fundraising of $3771.50 was dished out to the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter from the fish auction and fish filleting proceeds.
Waimea Dam formally opened, relief palpable
Under the blaring summer sun and surrounded by swarms of sandflies, the Waimea Community Dam was formally opened on Friday morning, bringing an end to a quarter century of work.
The 2001 drought, known as the Big Dry, saw the lower reaches of the Waimea River dry up and saltwater intrusion threaten water bores, and wreaked havoc on the local economy.
That event sparked a comprehensive investigation into the region’s water security which eventually concluded that a dam was needed
for the Waimea Plains.
And now in 2025, the Waimea Community Dam, though long-delayed and significantly over budget, has been finally opened in a ceremony where the relief in the air was palpable.
Ngāti Koata welcomed dozens of representatives from the Government, council, irrigators, and other stakeholders to the dam before those involved reflected on the tortuous project.
Waimea Water Limited is the council-controlled organisation that manages the dam.
Chief executive Mike Scott said the dam will improve prosperity in the region by ensuring water security for “generations and
generations to come”, giving businesses the confidence to continue investing in the local horticultural industry.
Nelson MP Rachel Boyack added that the environmental benefits of the dam cannot be understated and would make the region more resilient to climate change.
“The Waimea Dam provides improved and consistent water flow through the Waimea River, which will over time significantly improve the health of the river.”
But it was the difficulties of executing large infrastructure projects that was the running theme of the day, with Tasman Mayor Tim King suggesting that instead of rock, the downstream face of
the dam could instead have been filled by all “the reports on reports on reports”.
While acknowledging the “outstanding achievement” of the dam’s completion, King’s frustrations with the process were evident, even if they were conveyed with humour.
“In terms of funding, in terms of process and infrastructure, we need to learn the lessons and do better.”
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon lauded the “incredible legacy” of the dam which was delivered thanks to the “sheer tenacity” of “remarkable individuals” involved. But he wholeheartedly agreed with King and reiterated
his now-familiar mantra of needing to say “yes” more often. “This is a really big priority to make sure that we actually do more of this across New Zealand, and we make it much easier to be able to get projects like this delivered,” he said.
Luxon added that the Government was taking a closer look at how large infrastructure projects were funded “We’ve got to get better at doing these kind of projects. There’s no doubt about it; they’re complex and they’re expensive.”
Riwaka’s Savanah Milne, 12, cited her father George’s sage advice to her competition caught tamure (snapper). Photo: Gordon Preece.
An enchanted forest greeted Motueka’s children at Te Noninga KumuMotueka District Library late last month. The Mockingbirds ukelele group were on hand to entertain the 155 attendees, who enjoyed outdoor activities, crafts and enchanted nibbles. Pictured are librarians Janine Gillions, left, Kylie Griffith, Kim Francis, Carla Te Moananui, Eliza Hermse and Mary Butler, who got dressed up for the wonderland festivities.
Photo: Supplied.
Cast your vote for spiky little ‘giant’
ELISE VOLLWEILER
The giant springtail is a weird little set of paradoxes.
For a start, its status as a giant is only relative to the size of its microscopic cousins - this native critter grows to a maximum of 1cm in length. Also, despite its name, this particular species lacks some crucial mechanisms and cannot, in fact, spring.
Despite these contradictions, the giant springtail – or Holacanthella – has won the hearts of local conservation group Friends of Flora, who are throwing their support behind the striking little invertebrate in the national Bug of the Year competition.
FoF volunteer Sandy Toy reckons that, with its tiny orange spikes, the giant springtail is “one of the weirdest, cutest and most striking
beasties” to roam the forests. She says that most people have never laid eyes on one, partly due to the critters’ diminutive size.
Springtails are the recyclers of the forest, breaking down dead wood into nutrients that can be reabsorbed by the trees.
“Holacanthella only occurs in undisturbed old growth forests like the Flora so a vote for it is a vote for our ancient forests,” says
NATURAL HAZARDS
Te Tai o Aorere is vulnerable to a range of natural hazards including geological, coastal, wildfire, flooding, and severe weather.
Understanding these hazards and the risks they pose to us personally and to our community is important to a future, thriving and resilient Tasman.
Check out the website www.tasman.govt.nz and search ‘natural hazards’
Sandy.
Last year, Friends of Flora championed the Mount Arthur giant wētā – an alpine specialist, Sandy reckons.
The wētā came in second, narrowly beaten out by the powdery wings of the New Zealand Red Admiral butterfly.
Sandy has it on good authority that right now, their spiky little invertebrate of choice has a
narrow lead, so she is asking the community for as many votes as possible to keep this “gorgeous wee giant” in the top spot.
Voting for Bug of the Year 2025 is now open at http://bugoftheyear. ento.org.nz/vote-here-2025/. Votes close at midnight on Monday, 17 February, with results announced on Friday, 21 February.
SevereWeather
TBG deejays for wai
A night of bass-heavy beats is coming to the Playhouse Theatre, all in the name of aquatic conservation.
Beats for the Bay will feature “a real selection of different beats”, says DJ and Tasman Bay Guardian chairperson Stew Robertson. The event’s headliner is DJ Deekline, a British producer and creator of breakbeat, breakstep, drum and bass and garage music. He is described as “a living legend of the jungle and drum and bass scene” and is known for blending music genres into electrifying tracks.
DJ Deekline will be joined by Stew, who performs as The Golden Wonder, and Elliot Easton, aka DJ Funk-E, as well as Nelson’s upand-coming Ethan “E-Selecta” Smith.
Stew has been buying Deekline’s records for 20 years, and he met the man himself several years ago
when he hosted the United Kingdom-based DJ on an ecotour in the Abel Tasman. Stew has hosted “Deeks” as a guest in his spare room on the DJ’s Southern Hemisphere tours ever since, and this time, Deekline happily agreed to drop some beats for a good cause.
The event promises an “electrifying lineup of funky breaks, ragga vibes, jungle rhythms, and drum and bass bangers” – all thrillers, no fillers.
The DJs are all donating their time, and the Playhouse is waiving the venue hire fee, so the full proceeds will go towards supporting the environmental not-forprofit and its endeavours to “get the community to experience the marine reserves”, Stew says.
As per their website, TBG is “dedicated to empowering communities and Te Tiriti partners to collaboratively protect and restore our aquatic environments across Te Tau Ihu”. The group works to engage the local community in marine and freshwater conservation, education, and collabora-
tion, and they are encouraging locals to “dance the night away while contributing to a vital cause”.
Beats for the Bay will be held on Thursday, 20 February, kicking off at 6.30pm. The event is fam-
Sorrow and hope shared at Motueka’s
ELISE VOLLWEILER
“My history, which is actually your history, which is actually our history.” Donna McLeod (Te Ātiawa) was one of several speakers at the Te Āwhina Marae on Waitangi Day, addressing the gathered crowd with messages of hope, sorrow and unity. Donna reached out to the audience of both mana whenua and visitors to the marae, saying that she wanted to acknowledge the Motueka locals who had never been to the marae before.
“Let us awhi [embrace] and let us
bring our community together.”
Ropata Stephens (Ngati Rarua and Te Ātiawa, whose mother was from Tauranga Moana) shared that, growing up, he was “not really proud of being Māori”. His nickname as a kid was “Hori”, which he hated, and he found ways to cope and live positively. That pride shone through as Ropata talked about his ancestors who navigated the water to New Zealand, and he grasped a tissue to wipe away tears as the Treaty of Waitangi/ Te Tiriti o Waitangi was read to the crowd.
“There was so much promise in
Turtle on the run
After more than a year on the run, the sneaky little turtle lurking in Tākaka’s Lake Killarney has been taken into custody. The red-eared slider turtle was spotted in the pond last summer, so a plan was hatched to nab the critter.
ily-friendly with a 15+ age limit, and food will be available. Tickets are $30 and are available at Eventfinda, or on the door on a firstcome, first-served basis.
TDC’s Biosecurity Team set a special trap, which a dedicated volunteer checked daily but without success last summer. The trap was removed over winter when turtles hibernate. It was reset in spring and on a sunny Sunday morning in January, the turtle was spotted sitting on top of the trap, and while our volunteer watched, it plopped in. The average adult turtle weighs around 1kg – this one tipped the scales at 1.4kg so it had obviously been eating well.
Waitangi commemorations
those words, and they weren’t honoured.” He told the waewae tapu/ newcomers that when it came to the schooling system and the local curriculum, “we don’t want to turn your children into Māori – that’s not the goal. What we want to do with them is teach them these stories… so that they become rich, as New Zealanders”. Lawyer Kerensa Johnston (Ngāti Tama, Ngāruahine, Te Ātiawa, Ngāti Whāwhakia) spoke of the background and significance of the Nelson Tenths court case before Mayor Tim King addressed the crowd.
Matua Ropata Stephens addresses the Motueka crowd, including mayor Tim King, on Waitangi Day, wiping away tears as he speaks of the Treaty’s promises that “weren’t honoured”. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
Motueka’s Stew ‘The Golden Wonder’ Robertson will be supporting international DJ Deekline at the Playhouse next week, in a Beats for the Bay fundraising event. Photo: Bex Douglas Photography.
Dance to make a difference
ELISE VOLLWEILER
If you’ve got a little extra love to give after Valentine’s Day, get your dancing shoes on and take that heart of gold over to Memorial Hall to do a little good this Saturday.
Zumba instructor Emma Paaka is teaming up with Women’s Support Motueka to raise money for the organisation’s free counselling services, which help women affected by family harm in our community. Each year, more than local 60 women access this service, equating to about 200 hours of counselling.
Manager Maluz Morena says that this is one of their core services, which offers a safe and confidential space for women facing family violence challenges.
“Through professional support, women can develop healthier coping strategies, regain confidence, and work toward positive change.
By providing this service at no cost, WSM ensures that no woman has to navigate her struggles alone.”
This service was funded by Oranga Tamariki until June 2024 when the contract was terminated, leaving uncertainty about its future. Maluz says that, thanks to donations and
local charities, the service has been able to continue.
Emma says she has never done a charity event before, and she loves supporting all things local as well as giving back to the community.
“I had heard on the radio last year that the government had removed all funding for this service, so when [manager] Maluz reached out to me I was more than willing to get behind them and raise some money to help and support local wāhine.”
Emma is in her 10th year of Zum ba instruction in Motueka, and she says that absolutely everyone is welcome at Saturday’s event, whether they are Zumba regulars or first-time groovers.
The dress code is Valentine’s Day, so “think pink, hearts, red and love”, the flyer says. There will also be spot prizes and a raffle.
The event is being held on Saturday, 15 February, from 5pm-6.30pm, with doors opening at 4.30pm.
Tickets cost $15 each, although any koha beyond this is gratefully received. All proceeds will go to wards Women’s Support Motueka.
Contact www.facebook.com/EJZUMBAMOTUEKA for ticket sales or further information.
Emma and her zumbarinas are welcoming others to come and dance for a good cause this Saturday evening, with a fundraising event for Women’s Support Motueka. Photo: Elise Vollweiler.
Jump back into some retro clothing for the planet’s sake
ELISE VOLLWEILER
The Motueka Repair Café fixed and restored 627 items last year, and the group is hoping to add many hundreds more to its running total in 2025.
Skilled locals are once again volunteering their time to help with free repairs of clothing, tools, toys and small electrical items, as well as the many other out-of-the-box items that have been presented since the group began in early 2024.
The first repair café of the year is teaming up with the Take The Jump Kia Māia te Peke initiative, a movement that aims to “reduce individual and household carbon emissions, alleviate climate anxiety, and increase the well-being of people and the planet”. This free workshop will be held alongside the repair café.
Take the Jump Aotearoa’s director Chris Wheatley says they have watched the growth of the global movement, and the group is “incredibly excited to see the message of joyful climate action spread here”.
“Take The Jump research shows that seven lifestyle shifts can reduce CO2 emissions by more than a quarter.
“It is empowering and feels doable. We know action is an antidote to anxiety and this campaign gives people confidence that their action matters.”
The repair café will be held at Te Noninga Kumu-Motueka Library on Saturday, 15 February, from 10am-1pm, with the hour-long Take the Jump workshop kicking off at 11am.
“Dress retro” is one of the seven tenets of the Take The Jump movement, which is being held in conjunction with this Saturday’s Motueka Repair Café. Erena Griffen and Carol Richardson have both volunteered at the Motueka Salvation Army op shop for more than a decade, and they can attest that there are plenty of funky vintage items in store.
Elise Vollweiler.
Photo:
Cain, 3, Clint, and Ivy Foss, 6, with Kaia Parker, 9
Graham and Raewyn Spicer
Jake Hambrook and Yoshi Green
Jason Inch and Craig Goodman
Kieran Jenkins and Sydney Burridge
Owen and Amelia Johnstone, 13
Anna Lovell with Sylvie, 8, and Edward Thomas, 10
Lucy and Colin Bruning
Rowena Cudby, Rima Piggott and Kora, 8
Tōmairangi Wallace, 1, with Aulelei Iosefa, 14, Mirena, 10, and Te Ao Taumarewa
Attendance matters: A community approach
By law, kids in New Zealand aged from 6 to 16 are required to go to school every day - but the reality is that many aren’t. Absenteeism has been an issue for years (Covid didn’t help either) and, although the country saw a small lift in attendance last year, more action is needed. The Government has announced a plan for lifting attendance rates, including daily attendance reporting - but will it be enough? Over the coming weeks, Kate Russell will delve into the issue of school attendance, find out why our rates are so low, and what we can do as a community to lift it. This week, she speaks to five local secondary school principals who have come together to tackle the issue.
‘Just go’.
It seems like a simple enough phrase to get your kids out the door to school in the morning.
It’s also the name of a just-launched community campaign aimed at lifting attendance rates of students in the Nelson Tasman region.
Nayland College, Waimea College, Garin College, Nelson College and Nelson College for Girls are all involved in the collaborative push.
The latest data (for Term 3, 2024) shows that in the Nelson region, just 48.8 per cent of students attended school regularly and almost 10 per cent were chronically absent (attending school less than 70 per cent of the time).
A report from the Education Review Office, published in October 2024, highlighted that chronic truancy was at “crisis level”, with one in 10 students chronically absent in term two of 2024, nationwide.
It also said the number of chronically absent students had doubled in secondary schools and nearly tripled in primary schools since 2015.
This campaign aims to help shift and change attitudes regarding attending school and addresses the complexity of attendance issues.
“You know that old saying, ‘it takes a village’ - it’s about collaboration between schools and parents,” sums up Claire O’Fee, tumuaki/principal of Nelson College for Girls.
John Maguire, tumuaki/principal of Garin College, says the complexity of attendance is a lot greater than saying ‘just go’ – but it’s a good start.
“While regular attendance of 90 per cent or better is our target, there are students whose attendance is a lot less than thatand there’s anything from anxiety, through to other health concerns, through to blatant truancy. I think one of the things that works for me with ‘just go’, is saying: ‘just go, we want to support you’.
“It is something to start the conversation.”
Waimea College tumuaki/principal Fraser Hill also stresses the impact Covid lockdowns had on attitudes towards the importance of being at school.
Richard Washington, tumuaki/principal of Nelson College, says they are also collaborating with primary schools - as good attendance habits start young.
“We’re all in it together, and we want to support each other… strength in numbers.”
Daniel Wilson, tumuaki/principal of Nayland College, stresses the importance of setting and maintaining good routines early on in schooling.
He says having a conversation with your child is a good starting point.
“Talk to us, work with the school. Don’t just let it go. Don’t let ‘No, I’m not going to school’ be acceptable. Chase it up. There are so many agencies that can get in and support families, and we know that that’s complex. It’s not an easy thing to do. But we also know that working together is going to be a lot stronger than trying to pick off school
“I think, through that connection with families and students trusting us to have a conversation is the first part.”
by school, and family by family.”
John echoes Daniel’s sentiment and encourages the community to get onboard.
School principals from Nelson and Richmond are banding together to tackle absenteeism. Pictured from left are Richard Washington (Nelson College), John Maguire (Garin College), Claire O’Fee (Nelson College for Girls), Daniel Wilson (Nayland College) and Fraser Hill (Waimea College). Photo: Kate Russell.
Former council boss urges region to consider merging
Nelson and Tasman, Motueka and Tākaka/Golden Bay, would make more sense.
Vincent Clayton
I think that would work as long as we had a completely new mayor. Someone with no hangover or bias towards one area or the other.
Janet Ellison
Have lived in two places that this has happened, they big talk about the savings but it doesn’t happen. Rates went up very high in one case, of course supposed to be a one off, but kept on going up anyway. In one case the small town was debt free, well that changed rapidly for us and rates skyrocketed.
Libby Liz
But, by jebus that would make sense, can’t be having that.
Brent Steel
No thanks... both Nelsonians & us in the Tasman don’t want or need this amalgamation as we are doing ok on our own. It’s just those who are trying to control us that are not !!!
Sharon Malloch
Solid pass thanks. Hard enough to get things through the TDC for rural land
use without adding the pen pushers from town who have no idea what rural requirements and needs are.
Daniel Logan
Makes a lot of sense. Should get some real efficiency gains and cut back on number of staff. Good to have the discussion.
Paul Willis
THE ROCK FELLA
“The best date would be with
going out for dinner and enjoying each other’s company.”
I think these decisions should be put to the people. The council has no right to make that decision for us, this is called democacy. We do not need a dictatorship although, under the Nelson and Tasman councils, we have that. Get rid of them this election and vote for people who will listen to the people.
Sylvia Stephenos
Council should be focused on reducing rate payer costs. Councils all over NZ are now carrying massive debt, is it any wonder the ratepayers treat them with mistrust? I am totally opposed to a merger, Auckland is a good example of what happens when councils merge.
Robert Webber
Here we go again...
Heidi Nieveen
Kids n Rigs Truck show
tell the kids, ‘yes, you can get food and an ice cream’, without having to stress about our budget. The kids have not stopped talking about their truck ride and how they got a turn ‘to drive’, so another huge thankyou to the drivers that pulled out all the stops to make sure everyone enjoyed themselves.
To give up your weekend to do something for other families when you spend huge hours driving every day is so very appreciated.
Sincerely thankful, A struggling family
Phone: 022 137 4574
The Rock Fella@facebook www.rockfella.nz
The Rock Fella
I’d like to sincerely thank the organisers, sponsors and volunteers who worked so hard to put on the Kids n Rigs Truck show on Saturday. As a family of five, we try our hardest to get the kids along to things like this, but the cost is often prohibitive. With school just starting back, we are stretched thin financially. I knew entry to this show was free, but I had no idea the organisers had gone to so much effort to make the entire event free. As a parent it was so nice to be able to
“Best date was in the Marlborough Sounds with my ex on a boat and we saw a pod of dolphins.”
Art & Artists Quiz – 11-21 February
Have fun with our self-directed Art and Artists quiz in the social zone.
Altered Art Competition – on display during February Winners: Adults - Fiona Craig 13-18 years – Kelia Buckland
Up to 12 years – Tilly Rodwell, Reuben Raggett Highly commended Anneke, Raelynn Knowles Many Thanks to Marian Painter for judging.
Workbridge Wednesdays – Wednesday 12 February, 2-3pm Providing pre employment preparation and post-employment support. Criteria may apply.
Babbling Books – Thursday 13 February, 1-2pm
Paper Artsy – Thursday 13 February, 1.30pm3.30pm
Therapy Dog – Thursday 13 February, 10.30am-11am Garden Gurus – Monday 17 February, 10.30am-12pm
Library Lover’s Day – Friday 14 February What do you love about the library? Fill in a notelet or email Janine.gillions@ tasman.govt.nz
Booklover’s Notebooks – Monday 17 February, 1.30pm-3pm Decorate a notebook for your reading, thoughts and goals.
Rachael Frain Richmond
Jim Maguire Motueka
Sue, my partner,
Peggy Storer Dovedale
“Parking up the caravan at Punakaiki and watching the sunset with my husband Alex.”
Tom Clark Richmond
Motueka forms a mounted rifle squadron
ROBYN PARKES
The Motueka Mounted Rifle Volunteers was one of four squadrons that formed the 1st Regiment, Nelson Mounted Rifles in 1901, the others being Marlborough, Wakatu and Tākaka. The squadron began in late 1900 and in November around 14 new members were sworn in, with Mayor Hursthouse administering the oath.
Another 19 were to be sworn in at a later date. The Upper Moutere contingent of around 25 men had joined the Wakatu Rifles for a 12-month period, but at the expiration of that time were willing to join Motueka conditionally upon Lieut. Oldham being elected 1st Lieutenant of the Motueka Corps. Dr Deck was appointed as Captain; 1st Lieutenant Mr A. Askew; 2nd, Mr F. Batchelor; 3rd, Mr Joseph Senior.
Mid-March 1901, 17 men from the Wakatu Mounted Rifles transferred to the Motueka corps and Oldham was confirmed as 1st Lieutenant. Non-commissioned officers elected – Sergeant Major F. Trolove; Quartermaster Sergeant F. Muntz; Farrier Sergeant A. McFarlane; Sergeants F. Franklyn, A. Wright, A. Askew, Stanley Fowler and A. Kemp;
Corporals A. Talbot, Senior, C. Hursthouse and P. Moffatt.
Now began the work to develop the men into a functioning and well-practised group.
One of the first tasks was for a fatigue party to dig a trench for the building of a rifle target. Drill practises were held daily as the men prepared to make their first appearance at the Easter encampment at Appleby, under the charge of Sergeant Major Healy.
The 56 men of the Motueka Mounted Rifles (under Captain Deck) reached the camp in the evening and were ordered straight to their tents. In addition there were several marquees, for the officers’ mess, sergeants’
mess, and orderly room. A canteen, refreshment booth, and oyster saloon were also available to the men. Over the following days, practices, drills and military manoeuvres, including a fake attack, took place. The Motueka men were commended for their willingness to volunteer for camp duty and for having a large muster.
Back in Motueka, the men were kept busy with practices and events and in May delivered a grand military display and sham fight for the community and visitors with the assistance of the Nelson Rifles, together totalling around 110 men. The corps marched to Mr Staples’ paddock
where the ‘fall-in’ was sounded and the brigade was inspected by Captain Wolfe, officer commanding the district.
The sham fight consisted of Motueka squadron making an attack on “the camp,” which was defended by the Nelson men, all using blank ammunition. The Nelson Rifles gave an exhibition of drill, firing, bayonet, physical exercises and attack formations.
The day culminated in dinner and a ball.
By December 1901 there appears to be some rumblings of discontent within the ranks. An anonymous trooper informed the public by way of a letter to the newspaper that he had been
in the Motueka Mounted Rifles since its inception and he and others were fed up with the way they were treated like lumps of dirt rather than men, by the officers.
He stated that there was little to no respect for those who did not have stripes and the analogy of a ‘monkey on a stick’ was made, in that - the higher up the ranks some men went the more you saw of his tail. Allegedly, a number of resignations were threatened. In March 1911 the unit was renamed the 10th (Nelson) Mounted Rifles. They were mobilised during World War I as a squadron of the Canterbury Mounted Rifles Regiment.
NBS Motueka Branch Manager, Ammie McHardy with Peter and Shona Johnson.
Motueka Mounted Rifles, date unknown. Photo: Nelson Provincial Museum, Tyree Studio Collection.
Chorus seeking singers for success
The Nelson Bays Harmony Chorus is striving to hit the high notes this year and is looking for more singers to join them.
The four-part a capella barbershop chorus is well known in the region for singing carols in the city every Christmas, and for local organisations such as Probus and Richmond Seniors.
They are now keen to attract new singers so they can compete more strongly with choruses from throughout New Zealand
at the annual Sweet Adelines competition this May in Christchurch.
Their goal is to win their section and, in the future, to be able to represent New Zealand in the annual international competition held in the US.
“Although our overall score was higher than the previous year, we want to do even better,” a spokesperson says.
Last year their co-director Alex Charlton won two scholarships to attend educational and professional development seminars in America, and she has
been sharing her new skills and knowledge at their Thursday evening rehearsals.
“Alex returned home from the US full of enthusiasm, ambition and determination.”
To help attract new singers, they have planned a four-week workshop, beginning on Thursday, 20
February. Dynamic singers of all ages are now being encouraged to bring their voices to their barbershop family.
“We believe that if you love to sing and can carry a tune, this is the choir to join. Even better if you can hit the high notes or
rock the low tones.
“Whether you’re a shower-singer or a karaoke queen, our choir will teach you the techniques you need to make beautiful fourpart harmonies come to life.”
Interested singers can email nbharmony@gmail.com
The Nelson Bays Harmony Chorus on stage last year in Dunedin. Photo: Supplied.
ROUTE DETAILS
• Leave Moutere Hills Community Centre at around 6.15pm
• Head to Lower Moutere
• Turn right onto Wildman Road
• Then left onto High Street
• Turn left onto Thorp Street
• Drive down High Street turning right onto Old Wharf Road
• Drive along Thorp Street until it meets Fearon Street
• Turn left back onto High Street
• Drive along the Coastal Highway towards Tasman
• Turn left onto Aporo Raod towards Mapua
• Drive along Stafford Drive, Ruby Bay
• At Mapua Roundabout turn right to head up Mapua Drive
• Follow Mapua Drive to SH60
• Turn right onto SH60 to Gardner Valley Road
• Turn left onto Moutere Highway
• Then right onto Neudorf Road
• Turn left onto Kelling Road
• Drive back to the Moutere Hills Community Centre for the drive in movie
Rival orchard workers take to volleyball courts
FROM PAGE 1
“It’s good for them to do something outside of work, they are here for seven months so any chance we get to get involved in tournaments like this we do.”
Nelson City Council subsidised the court hire, while FarmRight and Fairfield looked after the late lunch – 347 plates as there was a big turnout from the pacific community.
Joshua’s Kono team was “blown away” in the quarter-finals.
“It was competitive with 18 to 30-year-olds battling it out,” reports Josh.
Cederman “A” beat Cederman “B” in the semi-finals and then picked off another Motueka team Birdhurst in the final, which was played over 15 minutes.
Tito says Birdhirst lost by just one point. Organisers are hoping for even more orchards to take part in next year’s tournament.
Family affair
Tasman runner Isabelle Schwarzenbach was the first female youth entrant home in the annual Buller Gorge Marathon last Saturday.
Competing in the under 20 ranks, Isabelle cut out the 42.2 kilometre event in three hours, 53 minutes and 58 seconds.
Her mother Ursula was just over two minutes behind her.
Motueka’s James Emery finished 30th overall in a time of 3:46:33.
Mat Wiseman, from Christchurch, cleared away from the field to win by more than 18 minutes in blistering 2:34:38.
NBS Motueka Golf Club Results
Tuesday, 4 February Ladies 9 Hole Stableford
1st Lynne Hardie. 21
2nd. Pauline Sutherland 20 3rd. Diane Enoka. 19
Mens Stableford Wednesday, 5 February
1st Mike Malone. 41
2nd Lloyd Goodall 41
3rd Kevin Peterson 39
Elevation Cafe closest to the pin Roger Hall Saturday 8 February Ladies Foursomes
1st Derryn Hedges and Suzanne Park. 73 2nd Jocelyn Thomson and Melissa Stevens. 74 3rd Alison McMillan and Grace Latimer 77
Mens Foursomes
1st. Kevin Beach and Mark Morris. 69 2nd Russel Hume and Peter Fox 69 3rd Daryl Graham and Paul Bailey 71
Birdhurst’s players Pesa Emanuelu, above, and Iosia Tulagafou, left, during the RSE volleyball tournament. Photos: Barry Whitnall / Shuttersport.
Community Notices
MONDAY
INDOOR BOWLS, Mot' 50+ Hub, 10 Pah St. Mondays & Wednesdays, 1pm-3:30pm. All invited. Contact Jude mot50shubsecretary@gmail.com
MOTUEKA HIGHLAND PIPE BAND, Mon, 7pm. Band is located beside Motueka Recreation Centre. Promoting Scottish tradition and culture. Look forward to your participation. Info: Ph: 027284 8361.
MAPUA FRIENDSHIP CLUB. Indoor bowls, 1st & 3rd Mon. Mapua Bowling Club rooms. 2pm, Bring a plate of afternoon tea. Lots of laughs. Ph: Val 035403685.
MOTUEKA ELYSIUM Mon, 9.30am, Muses Café. For Widows and Widowers. Join us for coffee and chat, friendship, and support. Ph: Carol 035285027.
WOULD YOU LIKE A BIKE? Bike Hub Nelson accepts donations of good used bikes, fixes them up and gives them away for a small koha. 142 Saxton Rd. Mon, 5.30-7pm. For other opening times and a map e: bikehubnelson@gmail. com.
MOTUEKA BETTER BREATHERS, Mon, 11.30am, Brass Band Hall, Old Wharf Rd. A 60-minute series of guided exercises done seated or standing, specifically designed to help those with breathing difficulties. Ph: Jess 0275467675.
TUESDAY
HOPE TENNIS CLUB SOCIAL TENNIS, Every Tues, 9.30am, Hope Tennis Courts, Hope Domain. All abilities most welcome. Queries Ph: 0211729257.
MOTUEKA BRASS, Tues Evenings. Discover your musical talent with us! Join our lively brass band for an unforgettable experience to join Ph: 021728168 or come along. YOGA. If you have or have had cancer, we offer restorative yoga classes. Tues, 12.30pm. To Reg, Ph: 5287669.
MOCKINGBIRDS MUSIC GROUP, Tues, 2-3.30pm, Senior Net, Pah St. If you enjoy some fun singing/playing music, come along with your instrument, we’d love you to join us. Beginners welcome. Ph: Sue 02102416155.
WEDNESDAY
THE MOTUEKA HEART SUPPORT GROUP’S first get together for 2025 is on Wed 19 Feb, 10:30am, Motueka Library Community Room. More info contact Janet Kelly ph: 0272296260.
WELLBY Talking Café: 10am – 11.30am, Wed 19 Feb, Motueka Library. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities and services. www.wellby.org.nz 03 5467681.
AGE CONCERN TEA & TALK, The Shed, 24a Tudor St. Every Wed 10.30 onwards. More Info phone 027-9214074.
KNIT & NATTER Wed, 10-12pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Hub, 10 Pah St. Friendly group for all ages. Includes refreshments. All welcome.
RIWAKA BOWLING CLUB Fun for all the family - bowls and friendly guidance provided. Please wear flat soled shoes. 6pm – 7.30pm Wednesdays till the end of daylight saving. $5.00 entry, School Rd Riwaka (next to Riwaka School).
MOTUEKA SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLUB, Wed, 7.30pm, Lower Moutere Hall. Keep fit while having fun. All ages, no partner needed. First time free. Enq Ph: Fay 0210393559.
MOTUEKA ARTS COUNCIL Office is open Wednesdays 11am to 3pm at Motueka Community House, Decks Reserve. Call in for arts info, funding assistance, and supporting art activities ideas for Motueka
TOASTMASTERS MOTUEKA meet 1st & 3rd Wed of month, 6.45pm start, St John’s rooms, Jack Inglis Hosp, Courtney St. Gain speaking confidently, friendly environment. More Info Ph: Peter 0277468311.
SHARLAND CYCLES 5K FUN RUN & WALK from Club Waimea. Starts Wed 5 Feb for 8 weeks. Last one Wed 26 Mar. Registration 5.30pm, Club Waimea. Race briefing 6pm. More info www.waimeaharriers.nz
DEATH CAFÉ, 2nd Wed of month, 10-11.30am. Revite Café, 256 High St. An open space for people to talk about death and dying. margaret@margaretmccallum.com
DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY
50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: office@topsouthmedia.co.nz
WALK 4 HEALTH, Wed, 9am, Motueka Community Garden. 30-50 min walk at your own pace, for any age, any fitness and size. Ph:0273015598.
THURSDAY
PLAY 500, 1pm-3pm, Thursdays at the RSA Motueka. Beginners, experts, all welcome Ph. 027 680 5383.
THE DOCTORS MOTUEKA – Walking Group, Thurs, 9am, by the Janie Seddon Shipwreck carpark. Walking for 30 mins, suitable for all fitness levels. Make your daily walk more fun and meet new people. Ph: 035288358.
NVC PRACTICE GROUP (NONVIOLENT / COMPASSIONATE COMMUNICATION), Every 2nd Thurs, 7-8.30pm, Motueka. In school term. For info e: margaret@margaretmccallum.com.
PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meet 1st Thurs of month, 1.30-3.30pm, Broadgreen House, 276 Nayland Rd. Ph: Bill 035448635 or 035391137.
MOTUEKA LIGHTHOUSE Meets last Thurs every month. Insightful presentations / workshops. 7pm-9pm. Motueka Community House, Decks Reserve. Donations appreciated. All welcome. angel3000.h@gmail.com or facebook Motueka Lighthouse.
MOTUEKA G.R.G 2nd & 4th Thurs, 1-3pm, St Andrews lounge, 64 High St. Support group welcomes grandparents/kin raising/ supporting grandchildren. Join us for a confidential relaxed and supportive time with others. Ph: 0211337299.
MEDITATION, Weekly meditation sessions open to all. Thurs, 12.15-12.45pm, Te Noninga Kumu - Motueka Library. During term time. No registration needed. Just come along. Info: Ph: Louise 0278789240.
NELSON BAYS HARMONY CHORUS, (women’s choir), is seeking new members to join our happy group. Thurs evenings, Club Waimea, Richmond. Ph: Carole 0274360910. MOTUEKA 50+ WALKING GROUP Thurs. More info Ph: 0212640403 e: secretary50pluswalkers@gmail.com, or www.motueka50pluswalkers.org.nz.
RUMMIKUB Thurs, 1-4pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Club,
10 Pah St. Friendly group, includes refreshments. All welcome. Ph: Keith 0274516422.
SENIORNET MOTUEKA Hear all about a different country in our Countries & Cultures Interest Group. 2nd Thursday of the month, 2pm. 42 Pah St. Motueka. Email allanculling@ gmail.com or Maureen motuekaseniornet@gmail.com
FRIDAY
RENWICK SOCIAL TENNIS Fri, 4.30pm - 6.30pm (weather permitting) 10 Uxbridge Street (behind Bowling Club) https://clubspark.kiwi/RenwickTennisClub, FBook or Leigh Andrews 0211913034 for info. Members $2 Visitors $5.
SENIORNET MOTUEKA The Smartphone, iPad, iPhone and Tablet Interest Group meets 1st (10am) & 3rd (2pm) Friday of the month. 42 Pah St, Motueka. More info or to join SeniorNet, email Maureen motuekaseniornet@gmail. com
MULTICULTURAL MOTUEKA welcomes migrants and refugees every Tues, 8.30-1pm, Fri, 8.30 -2pm, Community House, Decks Reserve. We provide connection and practical assistance for newcomers to our region as well as support for all cultural activities happening in our community. Ph 027 5286744 sez@multiculturalnt.co.nz.
SATURDAY / SUNDAY
KEEP MOTUEKA BEAUTIFUL Working bee, Thorp Bush, Sat 15 Feb, 9am-12pm, to do weeding and maintenance. Meet at the main entrance on Woodlands Ave. Wear gardening gear. Morning tea provided. Phone: Isobel 528 9599
MOTUEKA REPAIR CAFE, Sat 15 Feb, 10am-1pm, Motueka library. Free repair for household items that would otherwise be thrown away. Refreshments provided.
HIGGINS HERITAGE PARK 222 Pigeon Valley Rd, Wakefield museums open day Sun 16 Feb 10am - 3pm. Bring a picnic & enjoy a pleasant relaxing day, jigger rides, children's pre-loved books. 027-6316786.
JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Sat, 10-12pm, Motueka Library. Free services, including copy certification and
witnessing signatures are available.
NELSON BRANCH OF ROYAL NZ AIRFORCE ASSOCIATION Meet 2nd Sat each month, 12pm, Club Waimea, Richmond, Phil’s Restaurant. Interesting speakers, raffles and members interested in Aviation Ph: Trever Squires 039706644 or John Bethwaite 035476634. Cost of meal $25
HOUSIE Invitation to all, 2nd & 4th Sat, Mot' 50+ Hub, 10 Pah St, 1pm-4pm. Doors open 12.30pm. Feb dates are 8th & 22nd. Contact Jude 027 3244 226
GENERAL GROUPS
RADIO CONTROL SAILING Wed and Sun, 1pm onwards, Best Island. Weather permitting. IOMs and Dragon Force etc. New members welcome. Info Ph: Peter 0275443923.
YOUR STORY, YOUR VOICE – 4 hours of your oral history. Koha. Phone Grant 03 5287939 or ggdouglas@ xtra.co.nz
RIWAKA CROQUET CLUB, do you and a group of friends/family/workmates want to spend a fun few hours learning to play croquet? Min. of 8 players, $10 each, all equipment provided and someone from our club to help you learn the game. Ph: 0276308910.
SUSTAINING TENANCIES Having trouble with your Tenancy? Need help working things through with your landlord or tenant? Gateway Housing Trust. Info E: housing@ght.co.nz or Ph: 035457100.
SURVIVORS AND THRIVERS GROUP, if you have or have had cancer, or supported someone else, come and connect. Ph: Maureen 5287669.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS. Is alcohol causing problems for your life? Want to stop drinking but can’t? we can help. Support meetings every day. Ph: 0800aaworks, 08002296757.
BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP, If you have or have had breast cancer, come along to this friendly atmosphere. 102 Hardy St, Nelson. Reg: 035391137 or E: info@cancernelson.org.nz.
Community notices are free to community groups, schools, churches, gold coin donation events and fundraising only. For classified ads and public notices please call
528 2088. Due to the popularity of this column, while every effort will be made, inclusion cannot be guaranteed for free ads.
TRADES + SERVICES
Padel tennis looking for a local base
Family
affair
Tasman runner Isabelle Schwarzenbach was the first female youth entrant home in the annual Buller Gorge Marathon
STEPHEN STUART
Ruby Bay businessman and sports enthusiast, Nick Ferrier, likes a challenge.
He and his wife Jenny masterminded the huge renovation of the historic Warwick House in Nelson more than 20 years ago and now he’s looking to bring something new to the region – padel tennis.
The racquet sport is a mix of tennis and squash and was developed in Mexico. It is doubles rather than singles competition.
It has become hugely popular around the globe and Nick was alerted to its fast growth by friends visiting from overseas.
“They couldn’t believe we didn’t have it here, and as I had a bit of time on my hands I thought I would try and bring the sport to the district,” says Nick. But easier said than done as he has spent the past year checking out a suitable site to set up courts.
last Saturday. Competing in the under 20 ranks, Isabelle cut out the 42.2 kilometre event in three hours, 53 minutes and 58 seconds.
“I have been concentrating on the Richmond area and most recently a location near Berryfields, but we want the wider Nelson community involved as well,” confirms the former tennis club champion.
The glass walls and netting kit set courts would be imported from Spain.
“Ideally I would like to start with two courts and extend to four.”
If you are overwhelmed by the prospect of facing booming tennis servers, padel could be the relief you are looking for.
The ball must be served underarm and below the waist. It then has to bounce in the service box opposite before being hit by the returner.
So that takes some tennis players’ strengths away – no serve and volley and, of course, less running as the courts are only a third of the size of their tennis counterparts.
Tennis balls are used but they have eight per cent less pressure.
The squash aspect is being allowed
Her mother Ursula was just over two minutes behind her.
Motueka’s James Emery finished 30th overall in a time of 3:46:33.
to play the ball off the walls. The scoring system is the same as tennis.
The first padel complex was opened in Mt Wellington in Auckland in 2023, followed by Remuera and two more are planned in the region.
Wellington has an indoor facility, and the sport is also set to arrive in Tauranga next month and Wilding Park in Christchurch later this year.
Nick is working with an Auckland company, Pacific Padel, and its chief executive Julian Brown will be visiting Nelson soon to check on progress.
“Ideally, we could form a local association. It would be great to have people playing and investing,” concludes Nick.
It is not a cheap exercise, but former New Zealand cricket captains Kane Williamson and Stephen Fleming are reported to have invested in Pacific Padel.
Mat Wiseman, from Christchurch, cleared away from the field to win by more than 18 minutes in blistering 2:34:38.
Nick Ferrier has a thick plastic racket and now he wants to establish courts for padel tennis to be played. Photo: Supplied.