The Guardian - 5 February 2025 by Top South Media

Tapawera chipper with

GORDON PREECE

Tapawera School and Community Garden (TSCG) has a high decibel addition stemmed from fertile helpers.

A chipper was entrusted to the 2.0 garden, which is next door to Tapawera Area School, on 22 January, and it’s hungry for prunings and other suitable green waste which will translate to mulch. Garden project lead Gavin Scoble says the garden has been spruced up since early last year and it currently has raised garden beds, fruit trees, irrigation, a tunnel house, and a small equipment shed. He says the garden has hosted gardening workshops, and an at the site will verted to an

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Fat Freddy’s drops the beat: The pure tenor of Dallas Tamaira

truly woven into the fabric of New Zealand’s musical constitution, and over the two sold-out nights at Neudorf Vineyards, Fat Freddy’s showed that after 26 years on the scene, they can still drop a mighty fine beat.

Gallagher claim top tree prize

The 2024 Nelson Airport Trees of Remembrance campaign has raised $41,400 for Nelson Tasman Hospice with Gallagher Insurance being named the overall winner of the competition.

Their entry, the ‘Gallagher Grump’, wowed celebrity judge Dame Suzie Moncrieff with its innovative Christmas tree theme.

It featured ‘the Grump’ in the act of stealing the tree to demonstrate how important it is to have insurance against mischievous characters to provide financial protection against unexpected events.

Fulton Hogan was the people’s choice winner. The campaign aims to raise crucial funds and awareness for hospice, with local businesses sponsoring and decorating a tree to display in the Nelson Airport terminal from late November to early January.

Chipper with chipper

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addition, and he acknowledged those who chipped in to make it possible.

“We need a huge amount of mulch in the garden to use in various ways,” he says.

“There’s a project to plant more fruit trees around the village which will be pruned from time to time again, and then we’ve been asked whether we can take suitable material from the community [for mulching].

“This year we will have working bees on a monthly basis and we’re looking at whether people can drop disease-free material off [for mulching] which will increase our amount of mulch that we have on site to use in the garden.”

Gavin says chipper funds were cultivated from $3000 worth of firewood sales which came from Judith and Kim Rowe’s donated timber, which was split by Andrew Burden.

The other $3000 came from a Tapawera and Districts Community Council grant which is funded by the Tapawera Community Op Shop.

carried beautifully through the Moutere night, but it was trombonist Joe Lindsay who brought glorious down-and-dirty swagger to the stage at Fat Freddy’s Drop’s Neudorf concerts last weekend. The seven-piece roots band is well and

Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

Banged up, blistered and ‘burnt out’

STEPHEN STUART

It was all about mind over metres for Ed Shuttleworth on the longest run of his life over the weekend.

The Sport Tasman chief executive set off on his “210 Reasons to Run” fundraiser for Nelson Tasman Hospice from Farewell Spit at 3am last Saturday morning and admits he went out too hard.

“It unravelled a bit, but so many people kept coming out and supporting me I was literally carried along by them,” says Ed, after completing his 210-kilometre trek to the Nelson Tasman Hospice in Stoke just after 8.30pm on Sunday.

Do the math and the ultra-marathon runner was averaging just over 5kms an hour.

“It was a good time wasn’t it.”

But Ed reveals this was no fun run, as he had never gone further than 160kms before the weekend.

“It was brutal. I was really trying to stay in the present and not think about what lay ahead.”

He couldn’t eat and brought up everything for about 19 hours.

“I think I held a lot of nerves so I just couldn’t hold food.

“I really suffered but it was beautiful to go through the communities and chat to maybe 400 to 500 people about the story of hospice. It was one of the most incredible things I have ever done, and it carried me,” declares Ed, who thrives

on community engagement in his day job. He ran through the night and admitted suffering hallucinations in the dark.

“I thought I had glasses on, and I would go to take them off and realise I didn’t have them on. And every face I looked at, I couldn’t recognise.”

But worse was to come on the second day as he battled the summer heat.

“It was so hot I was hiding in the bushes for shade and having to lie down.”

As for sleep, he only had two one-minute naps during his entire 41-and-a-half-hour haul.

They were both on Sunday and once, when he tried to sleep for all of two minutes, Ed couldn’t.

Despite all of that, and running

on empty, the long-distance specialist still finished way ahead of schedule.

“The final 50 kilometres was very hard. What I got wrong was trying to go at the same pace as I would for 160kms.

“I didn’t respect the amount of walking I should have done early on, and my legs got burnt out. Looking back, I was a bit over aggressive,” Ed acknowledges, while praising his support crew who accompanied him.

A big crowd of supporters gathered at the Nelson Tasman Hospice as news spread of his impending arrival. He looked gaunt and confirmed his knees were “pretty banged up” and his feet were in even worse shape.

“I have no skin left on the bottom of them.

“They are blistered to pieces and wrecked. I know I suffered but it was incredible,” he declared at the finish-line. I wasn’t running for me. It was the most special and spiritual two days of my life.

“The support was amazing and I am very proud to be here,” insists Ed, just minutes after finishing the equivalent of five marathons. He has this week off and confirms

it won’t be pretty. Then it is back to training for his next fundraising mission, NBS Dancing for a Cause. His dance partner Brooke Silke-Atkins has given him this week off training and Ed reckons his feet will be ready to go again for the May event.

Ed’s efforts have raised almost $50,000 so far. To donate visit 210-reasons-to-run.raiselysite. com/

Ed Shuttleworth running over the Tākaka Hill as part of his 210km run for hospice.

Photo: Todd Starr.

Transplant patient’s second chance at life

ELISE VOLLWEILER

“Every day is a challenge, and every day is a bonus.”

Caroline Wrenn’s lungs began severely deteriorating 12 years ago. After much back-and-forward with different medical professionals, she was eventually diagnosed with interstitial lung disease.

“The growth just goes up in your lungs and takes over, so you can’t breathe,” explains Caroline, who lives in Bainham with her partner Daryl.

Over time, she was put on roundthe-clock oxygen, with her quality of life and odds of survival worsening by the day. She was placed on an active transplant list in 2023, but hope was not high.

“They actually thought I’d be dead before I got the lungs,” the 63-year-old says.

She began navigating her end-oflife preparations, as well as the grief and anger that comes with such surreal planning.

Then, 14 months ago, the phone rang in the middle of the night, and Caroline was told that it was time.

Her first reaction was panic. She told the coordinator, “No thanks, we’ll do this another day”. And

Recovery is an uphill battle, but Caroline Wrenn, pictured with partner Daryl and their dog Bear at her home in Bainham, is forever grateful to have received a double-lung transplant.

then, as the news sunk in, the emotions welled up and she began screaming and crying.

She and Daryl were escorted over the Tākaka Hill, which was closed for roadworks, and then flown to Auckland, which houses the nation’s liver transplant unit.

Her surgery took more than six hours, and she remembers waking up, seeing the theatre lights,

and asking if she was dead. Her procedure was not without complications, and her recovery has been slow.

She is navigating three different diets simultaneously, as the medication has given her diabetes, and she has high potassium and needs to be extra vigilant to avoid food-borne illness.

“At the moment I’m sick, I’m

struggling, but I just keep on going.”

She thinks about her donor every day. While identities are not disclosed, age and genders are, if the recipients want to know.

Caroline bawled when she was given the scant details of the young woman who, in dying, saved her life.

She wrote a letter expressing

her gratitude to her donor’s parents, which could be passed on through the transplant team. She also attended one of Auckland’s monthly services held in honour of both transplant donors and patients, and she says that she could not help but scan the crowd, wondering if her donor’s family was there.

She has found that a common misconception from others is that once the transplant was completed, she was fixed. However, her recovery, including the monitoring and frequent trips to Auckland for tests, will go on forever.

“It’s a hard, long, sometimes lonely journey, really.”

Solace comes from contact with her fellow transplant patients who were alongside her in the Hearty Towers recovery unit – her “lungateers”, she calls them, describing them as “another family”. She also cherishes the relationships she has formed with the doctors and nurses in Golden Bay, saying that she has built a “friendship and a bond” with many.

“You live in fear of [organ] rejection and infection,” she says. “I’m forever fighting my body at the moment. But it’s worth it. It’s a second chance of life, and I’ve got to take it.”

Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

Lions scholarship opens for tertiary applicants

ELISE VOLLWEILER

The Lions Club Charitable Trust tertiary scholarship is again open, with current tertiary students who have lived within the Motueka High School zone encouraged to apply.

The scholarship is in its fourth year and supports students in their second, third or fourth years of study, with a $3500 funding boost.

Amber Goodall was last year’s winner, and she says that the scholarship gave her a little bit of wriggle room to pay for expenses while focusing on her studies.

“It alleviated a lot of stress for me throughout the year,” she says.

The former Riwaka School and Motueka High School student is now working as a new en-

Amber Goodall says that winning the Lions Club Charitable Trust tertiary scholarship last year enabled her to concentrate on studying fulltime. Amber is pictured with Motueka Lions Club members Jeff Rogers, Bill Menzies, Mike Brown and William Mitchell.

Photo: Elise Vollweiler.

trant teacher at a Wellington primary school, after completing her primary teacher education masters degree with honours last year.

The financial boost is offered annually to one tertiary student who has a connection with the wider Motueka area.

Applications close on Thursday, 20 February, with further information available at motuekalions.org.nz or by emailing motuekalions@lionsclubs.org.nz.

new Prado

Chess booms in Tasman

ELOISE MARTYN

Chess is booming across Tasman, and now thanks to chess expert Rami Riachi, fun chess sessions are coming to Motueka.

Local people of all ages are playing chess more than ever. Some credit the surge to the hit Netflix series The Queen’s Gambit others credit a popular app that took off during lockdown, while many attribute it to a growing love for the game itself, as more people rediscover it.

Rami Riachi, who started playing chess at eight years old, has spent the past three years turning his passion into a career.

ception that chess is only for the intellectual elite.

“I am passionate about making chess enjoyable for everyone—adults and kids alike.”

At 33, he’s making chess cool, accessible, and fun for all.

“Many people appreciate the creativity involved in the game. Chess is an artform that teaches creativity and life lessons,” Rami says. His mission is to break the miscon-

Rami has brought Chess to Nelson by offering workshops, courses, and tournaments for all skill levels and now he’s bringing it to Motueka, as well as Richmond.

“I enjoy seeing different generations play together—it’s great for uniting people.

“There’s a huge demand in Tasman, and I’m focused on meeting that, especially for the kids. When I was young, I would’ve loved to have had a chess instructor. I’m really glad that I get to be the coach I wish I’d had when I was eight.”

For details on the upcoming chess sessions in Motueka, commencing on 19 February, head to the ‘Chess in Nelson’ Facebook page or email play@chessinnelson.com

Have your say on state highway speed limit changes near you

Some speed limits lowered over the past few years will soon revert to their previous higher speed limits.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is consulting with people who use the road and the local community to see if you support keeping the current speed limits in some locations, rather than see them reverse.

Consultation is open until 13 March 2025

Coming together for curry and kōrero

ELISE VOLLWEILER

Unity through diversity is the aim, and what better way to unite than over a plate of delicate spring rolls?

Multicultural Nelson Tasman held its first Kai and Kōrero event in Motueka recently, and the sold-out event enabled 27 people to learn how to craft several Cambodian dishes from scratch, sharing in the meal afterwards. Motueka local Sopha Hang led the cookery class, together with husband Sombo Chheun and neighbour Say Yeang. Sopha

has been in Motueka for three years and Collingwood for the six years prior, and she says she learned to cook by copying her mother, as well as pulling a little inspiration from the internet. She taught the participants how to make red curry, pork belly with egg, and fresh spring rolls. She was a little nervous going into the event but says the people were friendly, and she was reassured by seeing their smiles.

She has a lot of dishes that she would call “favourites” but reckons a chicken curry with

Summer photo competition

Nelson Airport is running their 2025 Summer Photo Competition until 31 March. Visitors and locals can enter to win a bunch of prizes – and you don’t need to have a fancy camera to take part. There are four categories to enter, including a kid’s competition. The competition will be judged by Andy MacDonald and

To find out more and provide feedback, visit nzta.govt.nz/speed -consultation

noodles, prepared the day before to allow for extra flavour, was a firm contender for parties and gatherings.

Multicultural Nelson Tasman coordinator Sez Fyfe says that sharing food is a universal language of love.

“Motueka is becoming increasingly culturally diverse and I think the popularity of this event shows that the Motueka community is both respectful as well as interested in other cultures.”

Sez says that more Kai and Kōrero events will be held in the near future.

Melissa Banks who will bring their different photographic perspectives to the judging panel alongside the airport’s in-house team. To enter, send your entry with a few sentences about your photo to promotions@nelsonairport.co.nz with ‘Summer Photo Comp’ as the subject and your name, email, age and phone number in the email.

Motueka’s Sopha Hang leads a cooking class in the town’s first Kai and Kōrero event, organised through Multicultural Nelson Tasman. Photo: Nicole Tai Photography.

Chess expert Rami Riachi is bringing chess to Motueka to meet the growing demand, especially among kids. Photo: Rami Pixel Photography.

Plea for peace wins international prize

ANNE HARDIE

At just 10 years old, Shaviva Winslade has already captured attention with her plea for peace by winning the International Mayors for Peace Children’s Art Competition for her age group.

Her painting of silhouetted people won her the top prize in the six to 10-year-old category from 2,300 entrants around the world.

Shaviva, or Viva as she is known, is a student at Tasman Bay Christian School after being home-schooled in the Marlborough Sounds and has been painting since she was little. She chose to paint the silhouettes of people so they could represent anyone and everyone.

“The silhouettes mean it doesn’t matter what age, what ethnicity, how rich or poor you are. It just means people should unite in peace.”

Her mother, Melissa Melodious, was asked to sing a song about peace for the competition’s award ceremony and that prompted her to ask Viva is she wanted to enter.

She says Viva has a “wisdom beyond her years” that showed in her painting.

Another local painter, Gracie Quinney, was awarded a special prize for her artwork, and along with Shaviva will be presented their certificates by Tasman Mayor Tim King at the March council meeting.

The competition has been held since 1982 and this year attracted entries from 123 cities across 21 countries.

Shaviva Winslade used silhouettes for her winning painting. Photo: Anne Hardie.

From humble beginnings to national recognition

ELOISE MARTYN

Amy Burke’s journey is a celebration of rural life, a love for nature, and the lessons passed down through generations.

Growing up on a sheep and beef farm in the Moutere, with her grandmother Sue Smart’s sprawling four-acre botanical garden as her playground next door, is where Amy’s passion for plants and their properties began.

“My grandmother had a beautiful English cottage-style garden, full of roses, chamomile, lavender, and a meadow garden. Plants, flowers, and everything botanical are in my DNA,” Amy says with a smile.

After years of working in the hospitality industry, Amy made a life-changing decision to follow her love of nature and creativity, and drawing on inspiration from her

childhood experiences and her grandmother’s teachings, she began to share with her local community handmade soaps she had been dabbling in.

“It was all trial and error in the beginning, but around 2012 I decided to get serious and see if I could sell my handmade soaps at markets.”

The creative spark she inherited from her grandmother grew into a full-fledged passion for botanicals, gardening, and sustainability, and quickly things evolved into a thriving business as Amy began selling a variety of products at markets, stockists, and online.

“Everything happened quite organically, and making use of what we had in our garden. The things we make are authentic to me and what I believe in.”

‘Botanical’ now boasts over 200 stockists across

New Zealand, and even internationally in places like Hong Kong, America, and Australia. It hasn’t all been smooth sailing, though. Amy says there have been challenges such as the seasonal nature of sourcing ingredients, balancing work with family life, and long hours.

However, her dedication has paid off, and at the end of last year she won the ‘Creative at Heart’ category at the prestigious New Zealand Rural Women’s Business Awards.

“Being nominated to enter the NZ Rural Women’s Biz Awards is one thing, but coming away as a category winner is another. When I started this journey, I never imagined this,” she reflects. The awards require dedication, starting with lots of paperwork and planning.

“Round two is a 45-min-

ute interview with a panel of seven judges and over 40 questions,” Amy explains.

“Some might think it’s just about entering and showing up, but it’s much more—there’s detailed information to submit, including financials, business history, and background. If you make it through, you head to Wellington for the winner’s’ dinner.”

Amy says her success has been a team effort.

“I have a very supportive husband and children, awesome staff, and wonderful stockists.”

And, if you think that’s the end, you’re mistaken. Amy’s next ambitious steps include launching a skincare range while still embracing the ‘garden to bottle’ concept. She also plans to open the doors of her garden and factory, offering people the chance to experience it firsthand.

Amy Burke wins the ‘Creative at Heart’ category at the New Zealand Rural Women’s Business Awards. Photo: Supplied.

Solid starter

Step back in time with this delightful 1930s gem. A home full of potential ready for its next chapter. Boasting timeless wooden floors, this property is brimming with character, offering a canvas for you to create something truly special. Featuring three light filled bedrooms and one renovated bathroom that hints at the possibilities for the rest of the home. This property provides plenty of room for families, first-home buyers, or investors. The fully fenced section ensures privacy and security, perfect for kids and pets to play freely. A single garage offers practicality for storage or parking, while the classic construction invites an opportunity to restore and modernise the home in keeping with its original charm. bayleys.co.nz/4052126

A family oasis

Discover the perfect blend of modern comfort and serene living at 2 Paretona Street, a beautifully presented three-bedroom home nestled in the heart of Motueka. This charming property is ideal for families, professionals, or anyone seeking a private retreat close to everyday conveniences. With its inviting interiors and thoughtful design, this home is ready to welcome you.

Situated in a highly desirable location, this home places you within walking distance of Motueka's vibrant town center, schools, childcare, and local amenities. Whether running daily errands or enjoying the town's cafes, shops, and recreational activities, everything you need is just moments away. bayleys.co.nz/4052125

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Sale offers invited over $550,000

1-1.30pm Sun 9 Feb or by appointment

Galvin 027 768 6288

3 2 2 For Sale offers invited over $750,000

12-12.30pm Sun 9 Feb or by appointment

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Motueka 459 High Street

Motueka

Paretona Street

Jodie Reed and Saffron Boyd

Lily Clarke and Jack Young with Ivy, 2

Max and Melissa Floyd

Nina O’Donohue and Rocky Satherley

Claire Rose and Chris Garside

Jett Kelly, 12, with Pebbles

Leah Woods and Angie Keiser

Mónica Naudín with Ari

Sheridan Gray andn Manuel Jagusch

Peter and Shona Johnson with NBS Motueka Branch Manager, Ammie McHardy.

Global warming

I know global warming is a bit of a corny topic these days, but this year – 2025 – has long been regarded as holding the last chance of stopping the world’s green-house gas from increasing. But it’s still rising! Yes, in a way, we are sort of like those thousands of lemmings racing non-stop towards the cliff face.

Anton Hyman

Council amalgamation

I want you to ask the question of the readers on what they think about joining Nelson & Tasman Councils together, ie: Amalgamation. I think it is time for it to happen because it makes a lot of sense.TDC now has about 440 staff & the CEO is on a salary of $500,000 plus, & there are a lot of staff being paid well over $100,000 so I guess the lowest being most likely around $50,000. So, at the end of the day the cost to rate payers is huge just for their wages & I read in the local newspaper last year that this year there will be yet another rate rise of 7% that will cost the average household around $330 & yet I read that TDC is short of money just to keep up with their maintenance costs. So, if they joined together as one, costs would have to be less burden on us the rate payer.

I think we should have a vote on it & if the result is in favour then it would be

taken out of the councillors hands & would have to amalgamate end of story.

Regards

Roger Jones

Driving generations of memories

‘Good morning Mrs Papps, thanks for the ride’. How many times did I say that? What a wonderful, long career you have had. Congratulations.

Margaret Douglas

Good on you Maureen... I knew you when at the Lower Moutere Store and when on the milk run for Bob Atkins ...good for you!!

Donna Burnett Barb Thomas

Best bus driver ever. Looking forward to another year with you behind the wheel!

Holly Martyn

What an amazing human being you are Maureen. Such a legend and Dovedale icon.

Liz Rarity

Gosh what an innings Maureen, and still going strong! Such great memories of the trip from the Baton Bridge at Woodstock up to Dovedale School.

Clare Maisey

Maureen is a wonderful person, and our kids think the world of her. So grateful to have such an amazing bus driver driving our kids, and so pleased she is getting this recognition. She is such a treasure in our community.

Harley Barrett

STREET TALK

208 High Street, Motueka

A lovely article on such an awesome lady who is loved and respected by all.

Sue Wadsworth

Fantastic Maureen...Our two had the pleasure of your driving in the 80’s.

Sally Mccauley

How lucky were all the Dovedale pupils who had this amazing lady driving them to and from school. That beautiful smile and her cheerful good morning and goodbye to each child is something they always remember. Congratulations, and more happy bus trips to be had.

Maree Park

Awwww there’s a face I haven’t seen in 30+ years! Great to see you’re still behind the wheel doing what you love, Mrs Papps!

Jace Arnold

Wow, I was on Sunday Creek Road, and I remember the old yellow bus with a manual silver door opener - she had to open the doors. I remember how bouncy it was in the back of the bus! But she is the coolest driver and one of the most caring people I know! Thank you Mrs Papps for all of your years of service!!

Marius Rezeanu

Wow, very well done and looking as well as ever. You deserve a medal.

Ellie Shaw

Motueka is The Warehouse’s most generous town – again

Great work team Mighty Motueka, our community is amazing.

Lynley Wilson-Smith

Amazing people.

Jes Barber

“We look forward to Waitangi Day festivities in Nelson every year.”

“I will take the day in respect of the Treaty, but it would be interesting to learn what happens on the day for Māori.”

“I don’t know a lot about it since I’m not from New Zealand originally, but it’s pretty well in the media that it highlights equality.”

Mika Frei

Chris Tonkin

Laney Ogle

Laura Cresswell

What does Waitangi Day mean to you?

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Open Homes

Saturday 8th February 11am-12pm

Sunday 9th February 1pm-2pm

The Brooklyn stream hydro-electric scheme

ROBYN PARKES

Marked as a red-letter day in Motueka, 24 November 1934 was the opening of the Brooklyn hydro-electric scheme and the culmination of the policy initiated by the Waimea Electric Power Board to provide cheaper power throughout the district. The new scheme would supply the Riwaka, Motueka, Tasman and lower Moutere areas, generating 250 kilowatts of power and serving around 5000 people. Although there were some who questioned the ability of the Brooklyn stream to supply the power needed, assurances were given that it would be sufficient. As it became apparent that Motueka could not carry on with its old plant attention turned to the development of Boulder Lake. However, it was not pursued owing to the cost, so investigations were made for a smaller scheme to meet the requirements of the district.

Engineers in charge of the investigations were satisfied that the

Brooklyn Valley stream would offer adequate power for the current requirements and the cost was considered not overly cumbersome.

Specifications were issued and the various tenders closed in March 1934, including ones for the supply, delivery and erection of the plant, concrete poles, steel rails, transformers, reticulation materials and block wiring. There was rapid progress and by July the electrical supply had been extended to Tasman to be followed by extending the lines to Mapua and Riwaka, planned to be completed by September.

Two months later and the project was completed.

The new station was several miles up the valley with the building down a bank near to the stream.

A dam at the point just under the saddle between the Brooklyn and Riwaka rivers gave a fall of 940 feet to power the station with a pipe-line around one mile long giving a pressure of 400lbs per square inch at the power station.

The whole of the plant and re-

ticulation was British made and the consulting engineers were congratulated on their energy and perseverance on pushing the completion of the scheme.

The plant was of a Peyton type being coupled directly with the generator, running at 1000 revolutions per minute.

A concrete syphon automatically lowered the level of the dam when the water exceeded a certain level and a small weir was

erected at the head of the dam to measure the flow of water into it.

The plant was installed by Metropolitan Vickers with Messrs Vickerman and Lancaster acting as consulting engineers who were vital to the project as the original Board had little knowledge in matters of electricity.

The switching-on ceremony was performed by Mr Herbert Everett, chairman of the Waimea Electric Power Board, in front

of around 350 people including representatives from local bodies in the Nelson district, from the Public Works Department, Marlborough Power Board, Westport Borough Council and several mayors.

Following the opening the community were invited to partake in a community afternoon tea. A dinner was held at the Post Office Hotel in the evening for all representatives.

Mr Lancaster playfully remarked that he had, for a short period, been on the committee of a pettifogging, pin-pricking Progress League; and had come to the conclusion that consulting engineers should include psychology in their training.

The Waimea Electric Power Board laid on a smoke concert to its staff in Bowers Sample Rooms to celebrate the opening.

If you have any suggestions for history items you would like looked into please email sara@ topsouthmedia.co.nz

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Te reo Māori ki Motueka

Grow your confidence and knowledge of te reo me ōna tikanga to use in everyday life, including with your whanau, on the marae, and in social or business situations.

Motueka evening classes | Starts Tuesday 18 February 2025

When: 5–9 pm, Tuesdays | Where: Motueka High School

Included in your experience will be four wānanga/noho throughout the year with the support and guidance of your friendly Kaiako (tutor).

The Highwaymen ride again

After a sold-out performance in Motueka last year, New Zealand music’s elder statesmen are heading back our way.

Brendan Dugan, Gray Bartlett, Dennis Marsh, and Frankie Stephens, collectively known as the “New Zealand Highwaymen”, have each had their own distinguished solo career.

Tasman-based music promoter

Aly Cook says that when they come together, “the magic is undeniable”.

“They continue to captivate audiences with their timeless music, humour and entertainment.”

The group originally included the late Eddie Low, who be-

came unwell prior to the 2024 tour, and Frankie Stevens was asked to step in. Aly says that the New Zealand Highwaymen embark on their new tour remembering and celebrating their dear friend Eddie, “the voice in a million,” who passed away last year.

Thinking back to last year’s performance here, Brendan Dugan says that he and his fellow bandmates loved this show, calling the Motueka audience “amazing”.

“We really look forward to coming back again seeing your lovely faces and hearing you sing along with us again.”

Motueka State Cinema owner Mark Wentworth says that last year’s tour was very successful

for both the Highwaymen and the town itself, with people travelling from as far as Blenheim and Golden Bay to catch the “high-end” show.

“It was good for many Motueka businesses in the town that night – the restaurants were busy,” he says. “Last time, the show was sold out to the 400 seats available.”

He says that Motueka is also fortunate to have a local music promotor like Aly who is supportive of Motueka as a performer in her own right.

The New Zealand Highwaymen will visit Motueka on Wednesday, 28 May. The show will be at Memorial Hall, and tickets are available at Motueka State Cinema and online.

The Brooklyn power plant aimed to provide cheaper power throughout the district. Photo: Supplied.

ELISE VOLLWEILER

The “undeniable magic” of the New Zealand Highwaymen is once again coming to Memorial Hall this autumn, with ticket on sale now. Photo: Supplied.

Dear diary, looks like the lawn mowed itself again today

Love not lifting a finger.

At Summerset, there’s no need to worry about the maintenance of your home or garden. That’s our job. Your job is to focus purely on doing the things you love. That’s what retirement is all about.

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Love the life you choose.

Fish and Chip Friday

Every Friday in February, 2pm - 6pm Summerset Richmond Ranges 1 Hill Street North, Richmond 03 744 3432 | summerset.co.nz/richmond richmond.sales@summerset.co.nz

The Tapawera Op Shop is more than a place to shop—it’s a community cornerstone that has been bringing people together for decades. Volunteer manager Amanda Beer, whose mother was a founding member, continues the family tradition of volunteering. “I volunteer just as she did,” she says, reflecting the deep roots the shop has within families and across generations. “It’s not just a place to buy second-hand goods; it’s a place where people come to connect, it’s a place for people to come in and have a chat,” Amanda adds. With a community jigsaw puzzle to work on, a cozy library area for browsing books, and with funds raised supporting local causes and Tapawera’ s local paper ‘The Informer’ it’s a hub for social interaction. Additionally, the shop offers Year 9 students valuable volunteer opportunities. Shop manager, Susan Fenemore, says that students sort clothes, learn retail skills, and gain life experience while interacting with adults and learning the value of giving back to the community. Photo: Nicola Allan.

Musical premiere ‘a real treat’

Golden Bay theatre company

DramaLAB’s musical premiere promises “a real treat” for Pōhara Hall audiences over eight nights.

Rescue: Remedy – the musical, directed and produced by Martine Baanvinger, is destined to be “hilarious, dynamic, and unique”, “full of rhythm”, “where no one escapes a look into the mirror of life”.

It’s a culmination of 12-months toil by a group of dedicated physical-theatre actors, who will also be joined by local musicians.

Martine says Rescue: Remedy in the musical is an environmen-

Waitangi Day 6 FEBRUARY

tally-focused festival and it’s calling a diverse group of healers to create solutions for the Earth and its people to heal the destruction humanity has caused.

“In their quest to find the solution they encounter their own and each other’s personalities, ego’s, and past and futures,” she says.

“While they descend into the depth of the Earth to get to the core of the issue, a painful reality hits them.”

The show dates are 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23 February and it is restricted to persons 16 years and over.

Visit: tinyurl.com/rescue-remedy-25 for tickets.

GORDON PREECE

Shelley Harvill, left Elise Beer, Tammy Trendell, Deb Morris, Martine Baanvinger, Jonathan Lea, Jodie Grant, Stef Jongkind. Absent: Rosie Hadfield and Mark Roberts. Photo: Supplied.

Photo: Kim Falconer

Canterbury couple prove key players again

There is just no stopping the dynamic duo of Ben and Carly Keys when it comes to elite surfski competition in Tasman Bay.

The Canterbury pair defended their King and Queen of the Bay titles as the New Zealand Ocean Surfski

Series returned to local waters.

For the fourth year in a row, Ben proved too strong in the 26-kilometre downwind paddle from Kaiteriteri Beach to Port Māpua. Nelson’s Richard Ussher and Haydn Lockie were his closest chasers as a

NBS Motueka Golf Club Results

shift to north-east winds ensured a real challenge in the final stretch. Carly Keys took out the women’s race for a third time with former champion Tara Smith, from Marlborough, pushing her hard. To complete a big weekend, Ben and Carly then claimed the Abel Tasman Islands Race the following day.

Wednesday, 29 January Mens veterans 4BBB

1st Barry Riordan and Mike Malone 49 2nd Bernard Walsh and Geoffrey Park 47 3rd Bob Ilton and Bruce McNeish 46

Adventure racing stars Sophie Hart and Nathan Fa’avae won the double surf ski as the event celebrated its 17th year.

Elevation Cafe closest to the pin Peter Cederman Saturday, 1 February

Surfskier Ben Keys was crowned King of the Bay for a fourth year in a row. Photo: Ian Trafford Photos.

Community Notices

MONDAY

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.

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.

TUESDAY

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.

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.

WEDNESDAY

KNIT & NATTER Wed, 10-12pm, Motueka Over 50s Social Hub, 10 Pah St. Friendly group for all ages. Includes refreshments. All welcome.

AGE CONCERN TEA & TALK, The Shed, 24a Tudor St. Every Wed 10.30 onwards.More Info phone 027-9214074.

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 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

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.

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

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.

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.

THURSDAY

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

DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY

50 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLY SEND TO: office@topsouthmedia.co.nz

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

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 Thur 30 Jan – Superconsciousness. 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.

FRIDAY

WAITAKI OLD GIRLS' SOCIAL GROUP NELSON Frid 7 Feb,

10am. Coffee and chat at Comida Cafe, Buxton Carpark. Under the name Prego. All Oamaru ladies welcome to join us. Queries 027 673 1145

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.

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

SATURDAY / SUNDAY

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

MOTUEKA REPAIR CAFE, Sat 15 Feb, 10am-1pm, Motueka library. Free repair for household items that would otherwise be thrown away. Refreshments provided.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Sat, 10-12pm, Motueka Library. Free services, including copy certification and witnessing signatures are available.

GENERAL GROUPS

GREYPOWER MOTUEKA welcomes visitors at the Community House office, Decks Reserve on Wallace St. for on-

going service requests. Discount provider list available. Ph: 035289076 or e: greypowermot@gmail.com.

MOTUEKA DISTRICT TOY LIBRARY, Tues, and Thurs, 9-11am, and Sat, 10-12pm, 44 Pah St. Annual membership $30. Hundreds of toys for all ages.

MOTUEKA RIDING FOR THE DISABLED We need more volunteers to help with therapeutic riding sessions. Tues, Wed, Thurs, 8.30-1pm. Ph: 0211151720 or e: info@motuekarda. nz.

MOTUEKA TENNIS CLUB. INC. Social Tennis, Tues & Thurs, 9.30am, Sun, 2pm. Courts behind the Memorial Hall Pah St. Racquets available to borrow for new Members. All welcome.

NEED A LIFT? Mapua Willing Wheels Volunteer Drivers Service, affordable transport around Mapua, Motueka, Richmond, Nelson (no airport runs). 24 hrs’ notice req. To book Ph: 0226822373. mapuawheels@gmail.com.

MOTUEKA NEWCOMERS New to Motueka? We’re a social group, mostly retired (50+) who meet regularly and welcome newcomers. More info Ph: Jana 035284355.

MOTUEKA MENZSHED, Come along for a yarn, cuppa and learn new skills with this great group of men. Email secretarymotmenzshed@gmail.com or pop in on Tues - Thurs 8.30am-12pm to join.

MOTUEKA RED CROSS. Open Mon – Sat, 10-2pm, Community House. Donations of clothing, books, shoes, linen welcome.

MOTUEKA TRAMPING CLUB, A diversity of weekend day walks and multi-day trips suitable for a range of fitness levels. Visit www.motuekatrampingclub.org or e: membership. motuekatc@gmail.com

NEED AFFORDABLE COUNSELLING? Life Linc Nelson has been serving the region for 50 years and has rooms in Nelson, Richmond & Motueka. Low cost counselling up to 10 sessions, ages 12+. www.lifelinc.co.nz clinical@lifelinc. co.nz.

RUM MORRIS DANCERS. Musicians and dancers but mostly friends. Slightly random - mostly Tues evenings, sometimes Wed. Get yourself a second favourite form of aerobic exercise. Ph: Dorris 02040618088.

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.

Lindsay James 26.7.33 - 30.12.24 91 years Lyn passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on 30.12.24. Dearly loved husband of Derilene and married 63 years. Much loved Dad of Brent, Melody, Brady, Mistril and Abbey and caring Father-in-law. Adored Grandad to all his Grandchildren. You will be dearly missed. A private family celebration has been held.

Stephen Anthony Suddenly on 13 December 2024. Much loved husband of Alison. Dearly loved father and father in law of Tracey & Allen, Vicky & Randall, Craig, and the Bayliss family. Treasured grandad of Tahlia. Son of the late Graeme and Betty. Loved brother of Murray, Glenn and the late Mark. The friends of Stephen are respectfully informed that a graveside service will be held at Dovedale Cemetery Dovedale, on Monday 23 December 2024 commencing at 11.00am.

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