Waimea Weekly
Richmond FC breaks ground
NZTA U-turn over weed maintenance
Transport Agency – Waka Kotahi said that weeding wasn’t scheduled until December.
ward because the vegetation has grown “very quickly” during the onset of spring.
The weeds on overgrown Nelson roundabouts and traffic islands along State Highway 6 will now be trimmed this week . The revelation comes less than a week after the New Zealand
The agency has confirmed that the weed control is, weather permitting, expected to be undetaken on Friday along Whakatū Drive/SH6. A spokesperson said the work had been brought for-
“The work needs to be undertaken soon before the vegetation becomes unmanageable for our contractors to manage with their machines.”
Weeding is scheduled to be
undertaken on the Whakatu/ Annesbrook, Waimea/Beatson, and Whakatu/Salisbury roundabouts but it is unclear if it will extend to the berms in between.
The impact on traffic at this stage is similarly unknown as the traffic management plan is still being developed. The
U-turn comes after public outcry launched the weeds back into local headlines. The issue of overgrown roundabouts and traffic islands were a consistent issue for the city over the course of 2022.
MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter
Richmond Football Club president Chris Sibbald holds up the first turf dug for the club’s new changing facilities last Friday morning. With him are, from left: Richmond Football life member Scott Davies, Tasman District Council reserve and facilities manager Grant Reburn, Richmond Football life member Russell Blowers, committee member Nick Rose and life member Stu Reid.
Photo: Andrew Board. Full story on page 19.
The government is investing more than $2 billion in pothole prevention; do you think it will help our local roads?
“Yes I do, probably Rocks Rd needs some attention.”
“I’ve been seeing a lot of improvement lately road wise so I have confidence in the current government that they would be able to deliver.”
“It has to, everyone’s sick of driving on roads with potholes.”
“Not really, because I think it’s going to take more than that to do it, from Wakefield to Belgrove it’s bad again with potholes.”
‘Wait and see’ for fast-tracked projects
MAX FRETHEY Local Democracy Reporter
The Government’s fast-track legislation aims to cut through red tape and trigger much-needed investment, but a Nelson developer says its benefits are entirely unknown.
A total of 149 projects have been selected for fast-tracking by the Government, and three are from Nelson Tasman.
Andrew Spittal is one of the minds behind two of the region’s projects: the Maitahi Village in Kākā Valley and the Māpua Development.
The Maitahi Village is “98 per cent ready to go” and is just awaiting approval from the Environment Court before the resource consent applications are lodged with Nelson City
Council.
The Māpua Development is “nowhere near” as advanced as the Maitahi Village, with work currently awaiting the result of Tasman District Council’s masterplanning process for the town. That development will comprise about 320 residential lots, a recreation reserve, a community amenities building, and extensive wetland and Seaton Valley stream restoration works.
Andrew says it’s “nice” to have projects included in the 149 selected but adds that it’s entirely unknown whether being fasttracked will be beneficial.
“It’s a wait and see until we understand what it is, but we will keep on following the processes that are in play now.”
Only once further details of the legislation are released – the bill
is currently at the select committee stage – will he and his partners consider whether it’s worth pursuing the fast-track process.
“We’ve all been trying to work out what it means. What we’ve decided is that we’ll carry on as usual and see what happens,”
Andrew says.
“If the fast-track is beneficial, we’ll use it. If it’s not, then we’ll follow the process that we’ve already invested in.”
While Andrew acknowledges that development can be “hard to do”, he says he has “no real issues” with the Resource Management Act, but that difficulties can arise through its interpretation.
nificance – which would result in State Highway 6 bypassing Richmond to ease congestion and allow for more housing.
A Tasman District Council statement said that while it was aware of the Māpua Development’s fast-track application, the organisation had not written in support of its inclusion on the list so as to not “prejudice or predetermine the outcome of the Māpua Masterplan process.”
“The plans have presented no surprises and were largely consistent with the early engagement with the community on the masterplan,” the statement said.
The third Nelson Tasman project selected for fast-tracking is the Hope Bypass – one of the Government’s Roads of National Sig-
Phil Berkett Richmond
Hannah Dell Stoke
Jovanni Vinluan Richmond
Jan Hadfield Richmond
NZTA U-turn over weed maintenance
FROM PAGE 1
Guerilla gardeners, such as self-proclaimed “weed witches”, have tried to solve the problem themselves in the past, and a resident has already been spotted trimming some of the weeds this year. Nelson Mayor Nick Smith has previously been highly critical of the transport agency’s approach to weed management and has been putting pressure on them over the last few weeks. His frustrations had been boiling to the point where he had been considering taking care of the weeds himself.
He was “relieved” the weeding
was being brought forward given the safety issues posed by the tall vegetation and described the situation as “embarrassing” for Waka Kotahi.
“It has been incredibly frustrating, when this issue has been raised multiple times over the last two years, that NZTA can’t get something as knocking a few weeds over resolved.”
Nick says he struggled with how long it was taking for the agency to get a long-term solution.
“How on earth is NZTA going to be able to deliver a huge project like the Hope Bypass in a reasonable timeframe when they can’t
roundabout in two years?”
A Waka Kotahi representative confirmed the agency was investigating concrete and landscaping options back in December 2022. Funding changes have seen Waka Kotahi shift to a yearly vegetation control programme.
Nick acknowledged that everybody was under financial pressure at the moment.
“But I just can simply not accept that the simple job of regularly mowing and weeding these roundabouts … is a sensible budgetary saving in these tight times.”
Nelson councillor Mel Courtney sits alongside
Nick on the region’s transportation committee and has similarly long taken issue with the weed problem. It wasn’t adequate that a solution hadn’t yet been put forward, he said, suggesting that a plan could be developed “over a cup of coffee”. He pointed to the “good job” Waka Kotahi has done for the roundabout at the intersection of Haven Road and Queen Elizabeth II Drive, which is covered by stones and some plantings and doesn’t have the
same weed problems as those on Whakatū Drive.
“People take pride in the city... and here we are, having to razzle them [Waka Kotahi] up every 12 months.” The cost of managing the weeds would be “infinitesimal”, he thought. Both thought a yearly weed maintenance programme was insufficient.
Nelson Mayor Nick Smith and councillor Mel Courtney were tempted to take care of the problem themselves. Photo: Max Frethey.
Taking a seat on the fasttrack road
ANNE HARDIE
The Hope Bypass might be on the Government’s fast-track list, but it’s not going to stop Roger Jones and his team from taking time out on their new seat on the edible walkway that could well end up a four-lane highway.
The macrocapa seat is the latest addition to the tree-planted walkway that makes up part of the Great Taste Trail on the edge of Richmond. Roger and his small team have been planting trees, including numerous fruit-producing species, and this year many will produce their first small crop.
It’s been a voluntary labour of love, planting and tending the trees to beautify the trail and the proposed bypass has always hovered in the distance. Now that it is on the fast-track list, it’s a big step closer, but the team aren’t too worried, especially now they have a seat to sit on and enjoy the result of their labours.
Rob Silcock is the retired builder who built the seat, which is made from macrocarpa that Roger sourced from a mate with a portable sawmill in Oamaru, then brought back to Nelson in the motorhome.
Sitting on the seat, pondering the possibility of a future highway,
they had a pretty relaxed view. “I said to Roger, what is the point of doing this if they’re putting in a motorway,” Rob says. “And he said, ‘not in our lifetime’. Even four years is a long time to enjoy this.
Nautical market propelled
GORDON PREECE
A nautical flea market will moor at Port Nelson on Sunday to hoist funds for Sailability Nelson.
The organisation offers sailing outings from Nelson Yacht Club to navigate adventure and freedom for Nelsonians with an intellectual or physical disability. Event co-organiser and Sailability Nelson skipper Denis Moriarty says the season for the initiative will set sail between November and March, and any
amount raised at the market would be welcomed.
He says the market was also a place for boaties and former boaties to donate any gear.
“I think there’s a lot of boaties in Nelson at different stages in their lives, and they might have a boat, a boat trailer or boating gear that is probably held onto in their sheds,” he says.
“It’s a reminder that there’s somewhere for them to take [the items] if they want to move it on.
“We also want it to be an enjoyable event around the Port Nel-
son area, where boaties can meet up and bring stuff along and find stuff that they need that they probably couldn’t access from anywhere else.”
Denis says he was also available to collect nautical-related items for the market from anyone who wishes to support it by contacting dropdenisaline@gmail.com or 027 474 6631.
The market will be anchors aweigh at Akersten St near Ruby’s Cafe on Sunday, 20 October between 9am and 2pm.
“The future is the future and we’ll worry about it then.” Roger says the planting has been done for the community and everyone will enjoy it while they can. The idea for seating came from an elderly woman who asked them if they could add a seat so she could sit and enjoy the trail. She donated some money to buy materials for the project and Rob was called upon to use his skills to turn it into a seat for the community.
Rob Silcock, left, Roger Jones and Bill Rait – tree planter and hole digger – relax on the new macrocarpa seat on the trail. Photo: Anne Hardie.
Denis Moriarty, left, and Roland Goos are paddling the waka for the Nelson Nautical Flea Market. Photo: Gordon Preece.
Road safety concerns lead to petition
ANNE HARDIE
Concerns about road safety have prompted the Moutere Hills Residents’ Association to start a petition to drop speed limits on the Moutere Highway and through the village.
Chairman Nathan Silcock says the petition is aimed at reducing the 100 kmph speed limit on the highway to 80 kmph between the Lower Moutere School and Redwood Valley Rd. It also proposes a reduced speed limit through the Upper Moutere village to 40 kmph and a pedestrian crossing near the Upper Moutere School, though he says the crossing has been included in the petition for discussion.
He says the lowering the speed limit has been mooted in the past, then it was raised at the AGM and that led to the petition.
“There was a lot of concern expressed. The community was mainly worried about speed, but also general safety, both in and around the village and further afield. There was particular concern around the school and at school times – traffic is just moving too fast and the risks are too high.”
NZ on high alert for whooping
cough
Pregnant people, babies, children and others at high risk from whooping cough in Nelson Tasman are urged to get vaccinated as soon as possible, as New Zealand stands at high risk of an outbreak. Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly-contagious illness that can be particularly dangerous for babies.
Cases have risen across the country over the past month and the risk of a national out-
In the village, Nathan says the footpath in front of the few stores is quite narrow for pedestrians when cars are passing at 50 kmph and he is “pretty confident” many drivers are driving faster than the limit. Along the highway, espe-
break is now considered high. ESR reporting shows there have been 187 whooping cough cases reported for the month of September, compared with 75 cases in the month of August.
Although cases in Nelson Tasman have not spiked yet, those at risk are urged to get vaccinated.
Fatal crash in Lewis Pass
One person died following
cially between the village and the Lower Moutere School, he says it is not safe to drive at 100 kmph. “People think they can do 100, but they really can’t.”
Between the village and Redwood Valley Rd, he says most drivers slow down already to navigate bends over the hill, and those who do not should, especially when it is frosty in winter. Nathan says it’s hard to know exactly how the group will use the petition, but it will raise aware-
a two vehicle crash on State Highway 7, Lewis Pass on Sunday afternoon. Police responded to the crash around 11:45am.
One person was transported to hospital in a critical condition where they later died. Two further people were transported to hospital in a moderate condition.
The Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination. Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.
ness and ultimately it will be a great way for the community to show support for change. The petition can be found at www.change.org where it is called Moutere road safety improvements.
Nathan Silcock is seeking signatures on a petition for lower speeds along the Moutere Highway. Photo: Anne Hardie.
Diwali Festival lights up at Founders
As a young girl growing up in Delhi, the Diwali Festival was the equivalent of Christmas for Garima Datta, with lamps lit, brightly-coloured decorations hung around the home and a time to spread love and happiness.
Now with her own young daughter growing up in Nelson, Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, is a time to continue that tradition and share it with the wider community. Diwali 2024 is being held on Saturday afternoon at Founders Heritage Park, bringing the community together to celebrate the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It is the grand finale of the Indian festival season and the local Indian community have had several smaller festivals in the lead-up to Diwali.
Garima, who has the Delhi Supermart in Stoke, says that Diwali, like Christmas, is a time for gifts, decorations, food and
celebration, but with a different history. It’s based on Hindu mythology where Diwali marks the day that Lord Rama, his wife Sita Devi and brother Lakshmana return to their homeland after 14 years in exile. To celebrate their return, the villagers cleaned their
houses and lit oil lamps to light their path.
Today, Garima says Indian families still light lamps and also create colourful rangoli, which is an art form created on the floor or as a welcome mat at the entrance, using materials such as coloured
powders, flowers, rice and lentils.
“We’re waiting for Diwali the whole year to unite people, spread love and happiness and distribute gifts. In India, it is massive. Everywhere is sweets and lighting and all the houses have lamps (diya). We make special sweets
like gulab jamun, burfi and milk cake. To have it here, it’s a bit of home.
“My daughter doesn’t know about Diwali, so it’s important to show it to her because it’s part of her culture.”
More than 800 million people celebrate Diwali worldwide and last year about 3,000 people celebrated it in Nelson. Experience India is organising the festival and expects 5,000 or more people this year. Festival goers will be able to taste an array of Indian vegetarian delicacies, experience temple rituals and have the opportunity of learning how to make rangoli. Even more market stalls than last year will be offering Indian spices, clothing and jewellery, accompanied by the sounds of an Indian DJ playing the latest Bollywood hits. Experience India recommends festival goers walk, bike or take public transport to be lighter on nature, and also bring their own cutlery.
Five-decade service above self
GORDON PREECE
Allan Hunter has been a testament to the Rotary motto ‘service above self’ for half a century.
Since 1974, he has volunteered with the Richmond branch of the international organisation, supporting a plethora of local events and organisations and contributing to projects in Rarotonga, Cambodia, and Afghanistan.
The 77-year-old says the fellowship and reputation that Rotary commands had kept his Rotary wheel turning.
“It was quite a desirable club to be part of, and it was looked up to a lot, and it still is,” he says.
“My father Max was an original member in 1956, and my uncle Ray was also in the Richmond Rotary Club, so it’s quite a family affair.”
Allan has presided on every Rotary Club of Richmond committee and has held its presidency twice.
His indelible memories include assisting in the renovation of the Rotoiti Lodge and the Aitutaki Hospital in Rarotonga, developing the Riding for the Disabled group, and the club’s charity golf tournaments and the now defunct Nelson Wine and Food Festival.
Allan has also helped fundraise for Rotary’s PolioPlus Programme which endeav-
ours to decimate polio in affected countries like Afghanistan, this included a fundraising dinner in 1988 with America’s Cup icon Sir Michael Fay as the guest speaker.
He has also helped fundraise for wells in Cambodia to provide locals with fresh water, and presently edits a weekly Richmond Rotary bulletin, and directs traffic and takes photos at the annual Nelson Motorhome Caravan and Outdoor Show and the Top of the South Car Show. Allan will continue his Rotary service in the years to come.
“I’ll look for the next milestone now,” he says.
Allan Hunter has served 50 years with the Rotary Club of Richmond. Photo: Gordon Preece.
ANNE HARDIE
Garima Datta is ready for Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Photo: Tessa Claus.
Weaving people together for 30 years
SARA HOLLYMAN
Multicultural Nelson Tasman celebrated its 30-year milestone with the opening of its new home on Waimea Rd.
Formed in 1994 under the name Nelson Ethnic Council, the non-government organisation supports migrants, former refugees and people from minority ethnicities in the region with their settlement process.
But founding member Marie Lindaya says it’s grown to so much more over three decades.
It now also promotes positive race relations through community education, ensuring people of all ethnicities feel empowered so that they can actively contribute to our community.
“Success is not mine, but the collective’s,” Marie quickly points out of the team of people who have helped shape the organisation to what it is today.
Coming to Nelson from the Philippines in 1990, Marie saw a growing ethnic community while working for the local branch of Department of Internal Affairs.
“People needed to connect to each other,” she says.
So, along with a colleague she organised a meeting to test the waters for such an organisation.
“I started looking at the phone book, looking at foreign sounding names, went through A-Z on the electoral role, and invited people randomly,” she says of getting the word out.
“People turned up, and to my suprise they had all these ideas.”
The rest is history, as is Marie’s long-standing hardwork with the organisation which includes board member, treasurer, secretary and deputy chair.
“MNT promotes positive race relations, we help people feel empowered, we’ve become so much more than celebrating dances, food and culture. We’ve enriched the region, and we are part of ecomnomic growth.
“We’re health workers, farmers, construction workers, scientists,
support workers, dairy owners, bus drivers... you name it, ethnic communities - migrants and former refugees, are there working hard.”
She says the new Waimea Rd headquarters, which was former Nelson MP Nick Smith’s electoral office, will be a hub that wel-
comes all.
“Reports from the latest census show NZ is increasingly culturally diverse. We want to bring those people together and make them stronger,” Marie says.
Marie says, by 1997 it was clear the organisation was only going to continue growing, and despite
the challenges faced over the years, it was never an option to stop.
“It’s too important and too valuable, to have the organisation to bring people together.”
Visit www.multiculturalnt.co.nz/ for more information.
Multicultural Nelson Tasman board members, from left, Cameron Hatton, Felicity Palmer, Mary Bronsteter, Anna Fyfe, Marie Lindaya, Bill Dyson, Monique Dalziel, and Tie Jian, outside their new Waimea Rd home. Photo: Gordon Preece.
Empowering women in mountainbiking
ELOISE MARTYN
For over a decade, Emma Bawtree has been dedicated to empowering women in mountainbiking.
The recent ‘Wheel Woman’ event on 9 October, hosted by My Ride in Richmond, was a perfect example of this mission. Around 25 women gathered to enjoy wine and cheese while learning essential bike maintenance skills in a supportive, all-women environment.
Emma launched the ‘Wheel Woman’ workshops after a friend asked her to teach a small group how to ride on different terrains and maintain their bikes. Encouraged by that initial experience, she expanded her efforts, creating a platform to help more women gain the skills and confidence to enjoy biking.
“I enjoy giving women the tools and skills they need to ride confidently,” Emma says.
With a rich background in biking—including having raced for six years on the national mountainbike circuit—she has a wealth of experience to draw upon.
The workshops cover various practical topics, including bike maintenance, transport tips for securing bikes on racks, and the different types of bikes available. Women benefit from hands-on assistance, making it easier to tackle intimidating aspects of biking, from gear selection to bike upkeep.
Emma has coached more than 1,200 women in the Top of the South. Her passion for helping women break barriers around mountainbiking continues to inspire many.
Fuel disrupter Waitomo coming to Nelson
ANNE HARDIE
Waitomo, the fuel company known as a market disrupter because it brings more competition and drives prices down, is coming to Nelson and expects to be pumping fuel by the end of November.
The family-owned fuel company that was born in Te Kuiti has purchased the Mobil stations in Stoke and Tāhunanui, after searching for a site for years.
Nelson has been called out by the Commerce Commission and the Automobile Association in the past for having some of the most expensive fuel in the country. But prices have dropped in recent months and Waitomo’s chief executive, Simon Parham, says that is typical when Waitomo enters the market.
“It happens in every market. The competitors have obviously got wind that we are coming, and prices have suddenly got more competitive.
He says Waitomo is a low-cost fuel operator, with unattended pumps, no convenience stores and without the overheads of the larger fuel companies, enabling it to offer sustainable low-priced fuel.
“With our entry there as a lowcost fuel operator, we can do that and we’ll ensure that the good people of Nelson will always get a fair deal on the price
they get.”
When Waitomo has entered the market in other regions, fuel prices have dropped by 20 to 30 cents a litre, but that has already happened in Nelson in the past few months, he says.
He says the average driver spends between $3000 and $5000 of fuel each year, which means that 20 to 30 cents a litre adds up.
Asked why Nelson – and Tasman – have had some of the highest fuel prices in the country in the past, Simon says he simply doesn’t know.
“Maybe because sometimes when you look at their petrol prices, it’s because they can. It’s as simple as that. With us entering the market, it will ensure there’s competition for the future in Nelson.”
For Tasman motorists, Waito-
mo is still searching for a site and he says the Nelson-Tasman region is difficult to find suitable sites. The land is closely held and has a premium price tag, especially where it’s suitable for a petrol station on a busy road.
“You find us a property and we’ll come and develop it.”
He says there is a huge uptake in Waitomo’s mobile app when it enters a new market and he expects Nelsonians will do the same so they can ‘spin and win’.
“We’re excited to come down and open the sites, meet the people and show you what we can do when it comes to offering fuel.”
Waitomo has plans to open another seven petrol stations around the country before Christmas, and next year a further 10 to15 sites.
We’re upgrading and expanding the Emergency Department (ED) at Nelson Hospital.
Work will begin this month and is expected to be completed early 2026.
During this period, there will be no vehicle access to ED from Waimea Road. Instead, vehicles will be able to access ED via Franklyn Street.
Pedestrian and bus access will not be affected.
The main entrance to ED will be temporarily relocated 10 metres towards the Medical and Injury Centre (orange building). Please follow the wayfinding signage.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Waitomo chief executive Simon Parham says the company brings sustainable, low-priced fuel. Photo: Supplied.
Emma Bawtree has coached more than 1,200 women in the Top of the South, fostering a community where women feel empowered to manage their mountainbiking needs independently. Photo: Supplied.
Runners signing up for The Spectacle
ANNE HARDIE
Nelson’s inaugural running event, The Spectacle, is on track to have the best international field of athletes for its Elite Mile race that New Zealand has ever seen and one of its founders says it will live up to the name of the event.
The Spectacle takes place 13-15 December, with at least 2,000 competitors and “maybe close to 3,000” who will take part in a range of races, from school relays on the streets of Nelson through to the 100 Mile which climbs hundreds of metres through the hills behind the city.
Michael Cochrane says the Elite Mile on the streets of Nelson already has entries from several top athletes from around the globe who have run sub-four-minute miles, including New Zealand’s Sam Tanner who was the youngest Kiwi ever to achieve the feat.
“That mile race is a real spectacle – that’s why we wanted to name the event The Spectacle. When someone is running a sub-fourminute mile, it’s really something to behold when you are a spectator on the street.”
Numerous schools have registered for the mile relays and businesses are entering teams, so real estate companies will battle it out and teams of lawyers will be pitted against each other. Michael says the trail events
which are on “quite gnarly” terrain in places like Dun Mountain, are attracting good entries, with about 50 runners entered in the 100 Mile so far.
That takes runners up to the Te Araroa Trail and over Dun Mountain and Little Twin, before many kilometres later finishing in the heart of the city. If that’s too much, there’s the 100 km race, or 10 km.
It was running those trails that ignited the idea of a running festival in Nelson, and as a trail runner with ultramarathons under his belt, Michael has run a few trails in the area.
“The trails we have here are exceptional; they’re world class. So, why don’t we have a world-class event here?”
Olympian middle-distance runner and fellow Nelsonian, Julian Matthews, said ‘why not add a mile event as well?’ They teamed up with world cross-country runner Annika Pfitzinger, also from Nelson, and got local adventure-racing champion Nathan Fa’avae on board to manage the event.
This is the festival’s birth and Michael would like to see it become an annual event that grows over time, bringing thousands of peo-
ple into the centre of Nelson. As chief executive of Matthews Eyecare, he says he knows how hard it is for retailers in the city and events such as The Spectacle are needed.
As well as the 2,000 or more competitors, the event is expected to attract about 5,000 spectators for the street events and finish lines.
“We know Nelson CBD needs more events and reasons for people to come to Nelson. As retailers, we want something that can replace Wearable Arts in the future. And there’s a running boom. You just need to be out on the trails or Rocks Rd on a Saturday and there’s more and more people running.”
This year he headed to the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc in the French Alps, an ultramarathon race that was first held in 2003 and is now regarded as the most competitive trail ultramarathon in the world. It attracted 25,000 competitors this year and Simon says it started out as a little club run.
“Now it’s the biggest event in the sport. Our hope for The Spectacle is more and more people will want to come and run these trails.”
For more information visit www. thespectacle.co.nz/
More than 2,000 competitors will be taking part in a range of races in December. Photo: Supplied.
Amelie, 4, and Caroline Blommaert
Charlie, 6, and Will Fry
Charlotte, 4, Melissa, Dave, and Gracie Cook, 6
Conrad Cooper, 7, Samuel Gauntlett, 7, Joseph Gauntlett, 5, and Connor Bailey, 6 Eden Arundell, 5, and Jill Braithwait
Dhamiela Gomez, James Solis, James Solis junior and Bron
Dhara Savla and Bhoj R. Subba
Jayaran Bhattarai, Chandra Ghimire and Danial Prasad
Pulea and Matalena Ifopo
Puspa Ningrum and Zpetznaz Prudentia
Weeds on Nelson roundabouts
I was pleased to read Gordon Preece’s article (9/10/24) raising again the embarrassing state of the roundabouts on the Nelson/Richmond roads. We are a tourist destination year-round and we deserve a better treatment from NZTA. They cite new health and safety risks as well as a cut back in funding as the reasons for this unsatisfactory standard. Perhaps a shift in priority and spending less on unused cycleways could solve this problem. From a health and safety view, I observed recently Nelmac undertake a great job of improving the roundabout at the Saxton Rd/Main Road Stoke intersection. They placed orange cones around the perimeter, planted more plants and “wheel-barrowed” new bark onto the roundabout from a nearby truck. I never read of any injuries inflicted during the process. It looks fabulous.
I would suggest that it would be clever of NZTA to
Landlords
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have a close look at the lovely and permanent materials used at the roundabout at the southern end of Main Road Stoke where it intersects with Champion Rd, by the Countdown site. No more maintenance or cost required as it is a permanent structure. There are orange cones for Africa in the region that they could use to divert vehicles temporarily while the projects are undertaken.
I believe there are many Nelson/ Tasman residents who would share the view that NZTA needs to stop making excuses and get their act together to restore some standards to the entranceways to our beautiful city and region.
It is also time the Nelson City Council addressed the roundabout opposite Garin College on Main Road Stoke, just like the Saxton Rd one.
JC Taylor
To me it seems a simple solution. After the mowing in early December, it would be little effort and expense to throw on a few handfuls of wildflower seeds in each area. This would feed and shelter birds and insects, reduce carbon in the atmosphere, be self-perpetuating and make things look much nicer. Win-win.
Linda S
ceries?! Especially now Raeward Fresh has closed as well! I miss Fresh Choice Richmond, thank God the Nelson one is still open.
Adam Stait
More homeowners, fewer smokers in Tasman
Kāinga Ora provides new homes in Richmond
Beautiful homes, I hope the families enjoy this just in time for Christmas.
Jess Brougham
For families....? The front doors don’t even have shelter from rain and there’s no carport or garage.
Nicky Woodbury
I have relatives who after 10 years renting in one house in Nelson have to leave because the landlord is returning. They were promised help from WINZ but none has been forth coming, and despite going to every open day they don’t have a house to go to and have a week before they have to move out!!!
Lynne Mahs
I’m privileged to be working with families who are sometimes recipients of K.O homes. To those bemoaning these people being placed in one of these homes, stop and think about their circumstances that has led them there, often through no fault of their own.
All traffic islands and roundabouts should be concrete. Simple and no maintenance cost to tax or ratepayers.
Rowan Kerr
In Sweden, nearly every roundabout has a Husqvarna Automower maintaining the grass. They are a very efficient cost-saving device.
Troy HundyPlus Appleton
Million-dollar revamp for Richmond Mall
Multi-level parking is needed
Janineand Graham
The plans look amazing, I’m so excited for this!
Love Nails
Hope they are going to put more seating for the elderly in the mall as there is not enough.
Liz Brash
The plans look amazing, looking forward to the seeing the developments.
Kylie Ashton
Can we please have Pita Pit or something else that’s actually healthy, please?!
Mandi Halliday
Richmond Mall isn’t the same without Fresh Choice, don’t need an expensive revamp with posh high-end shops moving in, what about high quality gro-
Can’t afford to smoke when rents and mortgages are astronomical.
Sarah Martin
Long-awaited reserve pride of neighbourhood
Well done gals, and was so pleased to be able to be part of the planting, and celebrations as well. It looks great, and even though it was a tough 8 years. So worth it all. Good work.
Wendy A Cornish
Awesome result, amazing what a little pressure can do, the area looks lovely, congratulations to all involved in seeing this lovely park through to fruition.
Philip Steans
Proof persistence pays off.
Demelza Taylor
Speedway champion revved up
All the best for a great race, Ian. Good luck, Amy. Let’s go racing.
D’Urville Island Wilderness Resort
Great article, looking forward to seeing ya race.
Edwin Pons
It’s not just beneficiaries who get placed in them, it’s every day people and families who have the greatest need. As mentioned by others, be thankful you don’t have that need.
Shaz Nicholls
Awesome! So happy to know more of our community will have a home to enjoy by Xmas. It is pivotal for the overall wellbeing of people to have secure, decent housing.
Ko Allanya
Ahau
Good. We need much more of this.
Joe Kelly
Penny’s magical, mythical garden
Penny’s garden is absolutely beautiful! We are so grateful to her for choosing to support Nelson Tasman Hospice in this creative way.
Nelson Tasman Hospice
Twenty
years of service and sunrises
Borlase Transport sound like amazing employers.
Rachel Kerr
Creating new life for old clothes
What a great idea.
Christine Boal
Donation to boost local anglers
JACOB LUCAS
Nelson Marlborough Fish & Game
A substantial donation to Fish & Game is set to boost the skills of new and experienced anglers. Legendary angler Jim Ring and his wife Fleur (both now deceased) have left a substantial donation which they wish to be used to get new anglers into fishing and help develop the skills of the anglers we have. This will be a real game-changer to grow our angler base in this region. Jim was arguably one of the most successful anglers this region has seen, and the meticulousndiaries he kept are the stuff of legends.
They were also a perfect angling match, with Jim aiming for perfection in the art of fly fishing, and Fleur a qualified entomologist.
The new trout fishing season kicked off on 1 October and opening day saw anglers out in force on rivers across the region.
Although the start of the season fell on a weekday, Fish & Game rangers observed one of the busiest opening days in some years. The day coincided with an approaching weather front which many anglers found to affect fish behaviour. They were harder to find and, when located, many fish were not actively feeding,
and catches were lighter than expected. However, anglers can fear not, as trout numbers in most of our rivers are in great shape and catches will definitely improve as river conditions stabilise and we get some more sun.
Thanks to Jim and Fleur’s donation, Nelson Marlborough Fish & Game is introducing a series of spin/softbait and fly-fishing clinics to help realise the couple’s wishes.
We will also be hosting a ‘Women on the Fly’ practical fishing workshop and developing a mentoring programme
where learning or intermediate anglers can be paired with fishing gurus. We also want people to catch more fish on our accessible lowland fisheries, so targeted programmes to improve success
on the Wairau and Motueka (Jim’s favourite river) will be held. These clinics will kick off in November and run through to April. Email nelsonmarlborough@ fishandgame.org.nz to register.
Thomas Darling with a cracking brown trout from Opening Day of the 2024-25 fishing season. Photo: Supplied.
Local History
Richmond’s Walter Ladley - A teacher of children
ROBYN PARKES
Walter Ladley was born in Richmond in 1845, the eldest child of James Ladley who arrived in Nelson in 1843 on board the ‘Martha Ridgeway’.
Perhaps destined from birth to become a teacher, Walter excelled at school and in 1857 became a boarder at Nelson College for Boys.
In December 1858 he was recognized with ‘distinction’ in industry, good conduct and talent. At the tender age of 18 years Walter was appointed the sole teacher of 88 Valley school.
From these early years his proficiency as a teacher and master grew and he held multiple positions over the following years. By 1874 he was the master of Waimea West Village school, four years later master of Upper Wakefield school and in August of 1882 was promoted as master
of Lower Wakefield Boys school. With a reputation as being an extremely capable, dedicated and respected teacher, Mr W. Hodgson requested that Walter support him by acting as assistant examiner of the West Coast and Takaka schools for a period of six weeks.
A complete fiasco occurred in mid-1893 when the Education Board requested that Walter be transferred to Bridge Street school in the position as headmaster, which he accepted. The Towns School Committee did not approve of the transfer, believing it should have been advertised giving all teachers a chance for a very coveted position, but the Board ignored their concerns. On arriving at the school for his first day, Walter found the door locked. He asked for the key but was refused. What followed was a series of meetings between the two opposing sides with legal
opinions sought by each party. In September, after some very heated discussion it was agreed that the appointment of Walter to the Bridge Street school would be cancelled. With the head teacher position still open at his previous school, Walter was reappointed to Lower Wakefield School.
In May 1894 Walter was appointed as the permanent Assistant Inspector at a salary of £250 per annum and £100 travelling expenses.
In his duties he examined schools not only in Nelson but in Golden Bay and on the West Coast.
Walter, from time-to-time, ex-
perienced bouts of ill health and in July 1900 he was granted two months leave of absence on full pay to allow him to recover from yet another bout.
He returned to work around November but within seven months was again unwell. The Education Board responded by restricting Walter to desk work for six months, which after this time he would be reinstated as Inspector providing he was well enough to do so. Sadly, his health continued to deteriorate, and he was forced to resign late January 1902 bringing his career to a close after 40 years of service as teacher, master and inspector.
Walter died on the 10th of September 1904, aged just 58 years, and was buried in Wakapuaka cemetery. As a mark of respect the flags at schools in the city and at many of the country school were flown at half mast in memory of a great gentleman.
Walter Ladley, wife Hannah and family. Photo: Nelson Provincial Museum, Tyree studio collection.
Photo: Martin Schmidli - Unsplash.com
‘Groggy’ sheep farmers weathering economic hangover
ELOISE MARTYN
The upcoming season looks particularly challenging for sheep farmers, according to Tapawera sheep farmer and meat and wool chair for Nelson Federated Farmers, Kerry Irvine.
Despite a modest improvement in global red meat demand, farm profitability, particularly sheep farming, is set
to decline further according to both Beef and Lamb New Zealand’s latest forecast and local farmers.
“Low demand from China’s market is expected to maintain low sheep meat prices,” Kerry explains. “It’s tough times, recovering from the drought, high input costs and low returns. With a struggling market and no forecast of improvement, this season is going to be
a real challenge for many.
“Sheep farmers are going to be weighing it all up and thinking about if they can keep sheep farming or not. What we need is increased lamb prices and decreased costs of things like interest rates, fertiliser, fuel, and animal health, all the general day-to-day expenses that have gone up so much.”
However, increased lamb prices or decreased costs are sadly
not anticipated.
While the outlook is challenging, Kerry says communication with accountants, bank managers, farm advisers, and local Rural Support Trusts, is key to getting through.
“It’s a bit like a hangover,” Kerry says. “We’ve been struggling for years, and we are all groggy, recovery will take time, and the wheels will get rolling again. It’s just going to take time.”
Catchment group proposed for Waimea
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A group of Waimea landowners are drumming up interest in a catchment group that can work on specific aspects of each subcatchment, from water quality to willow control.
New Zealand Landcare Trust regional coordinator, Annette Litherland, says a group of landowners met last month to find out if there was support for a Waimea catchment group.
That led to a wider meeting planned next week in Brightwater to discuss a landowner-led catchment group and potentially a subcatchment-based collective.
A Roding catchment group
Sport NZ Rural Travel Fund
For those living rurally and need a little help in participating in sports, Tasman District Council is now accepting applications for The Sport NZ Rural Travel Fund.
This offers help with travel costs for rural sports clubs and rural school teams. The fund helps young people
was established late last year, which is a subcatchment of the Waimea, and Annette says that has prioritised water quality, increasing biodiversity and weed control as its tasks.
She says each subcatchment will have different priorities and another example of that is the Motueka catchment group, whose focus includes flood mitigation and working with forestry.
The sheer scale of the Waimea catchment means it needs to be split into subcatchments, but she says they could work under one umbrella.
Horticulture growers on the Waimea Plains have been working for a number of years
aged five to 19 participate in local sports competitions.
Aviation engineering programme extended
In response to a domestic and global shortage in aviation engineers, NMIT has extended its aeronautical engineering programme.
A refreshed Certificate pro-
with Horticulture New Zealand to improve practices that may affect aquifers below the plains, but this is the first time landowners have sought to establish a catchment group.
“It always requires that spark –a group of landowners wanting to start it,” she says.
“If we create a group in the Waimea, it would be working out what the landowners are interested in.”
While most of the catchment’s water quality is reasonably good, she says there are a few issues with nitrates and e-coli in spring-fed streams.
“It’s a lot easier to look after the water and keep it good and address what issues there are, than
gramme, developed in consultation with national industry partners, is kicking off in Nelson in 2025, complementing NMIT’s popular Woodbourne-based programmes. This means budding engineers can choose both their location and their time commitmentwith either a one or two-year programme available - before embarking on a career in avia-
wait for the rivers to degrade.”
Sometimes, landowners worry about the workload of joining a catchment group, but Annette says there are now so many support agencies to help out.
“It’s up to the landowners to decide how it is run.”
Tasman District Council’s water quality scientist, Trevor James, will talk at the upcoming meeting about Waimea water quality.
The meeting is being held in Brightwater’s St Paul’s Church on 24 October from 6.30pm and interested landowners can register at www.surveymonkey. com/r/RH9BDKG. or get more information by contacting Annette on 027 724 4445.
tion, ultimately helping to address the shortfall in aviation engineers.
The updated Level 3 Certificate in Aeronautical Engineering (Specialist Support) (General Aviation) means students can complete their qualification in one year. They can then choose to continue into the Level 4 Certificate programme or enter the workforce.
Kerry Irvine of Nelson Federated Farmers. Photo: Supplied.
ANNE HARDIE
Thinking globally, acting locally
ELOISE MARTYN
Turning slash from Tasman forestry operations into a valuable resource has been a success.
Since late 2021, OneFortyOne New Zealand Forests has invested over a million dollars in the collection, measurement, and storage of slash.
Slash is the wood fibre that is left on the ground after trees have been harvested.
This could be anything from small branches to larger parts of the tree.
The larger pieces, known as ‘binwood’, are processed into woodchips and used as a biofuel for J.S. Ewers’ (A Tasman-based market garden) biomass boiler.
This switch has dramatically reduced J.S Ewers’ CO2 emissions by 98 per cent, equating to a reduction of 27,000 tonnes of CO2 annually.
“We have been impressed with the reduction and encouraged by the fact we are making good use of a waste product with a local source,” Pierre Gargiulo, general manager for JS Ewers, says. This process of turning slash into woodchips and transporting it involves a team of local companies.
OneFortyOne’s forestry crews separate the binwood from the
Wendy Norris, chief executive for OneFortyOne, Sam Keenan, deputy director-general for Te Uru Rakau/NZ Forest Services, and Shaun Truelock, general manager for OneFortyOne NZ Forests, with one of the Borlase Transport ‘binwood’ trucks which are used to turn slash into useable woodchips. Photo: Supplied.
slash, Borlase Transport move it to storage sites, Canterbury Woodchip Supplies chip it, and Sollys deliver the chips to J.S. Ewers.
Over the next five years, OneFortyOne aims to reduce slash by 75,000 tonnes, which is equivalent to 2,000 logging trucks or 10 rugby pitches piled three metres high.
“Converting slash into biofuel is
a way of helping New Zealand meet its emission targets while boosting the local economy and utilizing something that would otherwise sit on the hillside and be waste,” Shaun Truelock, Richmond-based general manager for OneFortyOne New Zealand Forests, explains.
Beyond biofuel, OneFortyOne is exploring other uses for slash. For example, The Green Circle com-
pany in Marlborough transforms slash into high-carbon biochar through pyrolysis.
Biochar improves soil health by retaining water and nutrients, reduces methane emissions from cattle feed, and sequesters carbon in the soil.
This initiative illustrates how forestry waste can be repurposed into sustainable, renewable energy sources, supporting New Zea-
land’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
“It is a great example of thinking globally and acting locally,” Shaun says.
“We need to be offering solutions, not just talking about the environmental challenges we are facing.
“And our solutions need to benefit local communities like this initiative is.”
125 years of supporting local farmers
ELOISE MARTYN
Federated Farmers last month marked 125 years of advocating for New Zealand’s farmers through 24 regional groups. Their efforts benefit everyone connected to agriculture, including the local communities of Nelson and Tasman, often without recognition.
Nelson Federated Farmers played key voluntary roles in evacuating and caring for livestock during the 2019 Pigeon Valley fires and responding to the 2022 flooding in Nelson, rescuing stock, including heavily pregnant cows. When it became clear that pasture for animals would be unavailable for months due to flood damage, they arranged care and transport for hundreds of animals over an extended period.
Policy and law changes from the local council, such as the recent Stock Control and Droving Bylaw, which caused a few headaches for farmers in Nelson, Tasman, and Golden Bay, prompted active involvement from Nelson Federated Farmers. As farmers, they are best positioned to understand what works best on their farms, making them the leading voice in discussions about necessary changes.
Brian Dineen, Martin O’Connor, Stephen Todd and Kerry Irvine are some of the volunteer members from Nelson Federated Farmers who are proud to be part of the 125-year journey of supporting farmers. Photo: Supplied.
The federation’s roots go back to 18 September, 1899, established by a dairy farmer, and over the past 125 years has adapted and evolved to consistently support and advocate for farmers and growers, who are the backbone of New Zealand’s economy.
“We are the only local farming organisation that actively engages with the council to discuss
improvements, and that’s what makes us different from other groups,” Nelson Federated Famers president and Murchison dairy farmer Stephen Todd explains.
“We get in front of regulation and lawmakers and explain, with examples, on how what’s happening impacts farmers and what changes can be made. We have had a
lot of success by having honest conversations with suggested solutions. There’s always groups discussing stuff affecting farming, we are a group that isn’t just discussing things, we are getting changes.”
Stephen highlights that making changes requires teamwork, and this would not be possible without the invaluable support of local
volunteers dedicating their time to the Nelson Federated Farmers team, alongside the commitment of local members paying their annual subscriptions. Whether you raise animals, consume fruits and vegetables, or simply enjoy meat, you have likely benefited from their efforts over the years without even realising it.
E: drivewayspecialistsnsn@hotmail.co.nz
Transforming outdoor spaces with Driveway Specialists Nelson
Driveway Specialists Nelson is a locally owned resurfacing company committed to enhancing the appearance and functionality of outdoor surfaces. Since their establishment in 2020, they have earned a reputation for delivering high-quality services across Nelson Tasman.
With over 20 years of industry experience, owner Abe Lee and his skilled team take on projects of all sizes, including asphalt, concrete, and chip seal surfacing. From small residential paths to large commercial carparks, Driveway Specialists Nelson is known for revitalising aging surfaces. “We pride ourselves on working closely with clients to ensure their resurfacing project aligns perfectly with their needs,” Abe explains.
The team’s expertise includes designing bespoke driveways from scratch to restoring damaged and worn-out surfaces, offering a cost-effective alternative to complete replacement. “Over time, asphalt surfaces can become worn, stained, and cracked, which can lead to a range of problems, including water damage, tripping hazards, and reduced curb appeal. This is where our resurfacing services come in.”
Specialising in projects across residential, commercial, retail and educational sectors, their comprehensive services include durable, slip-resistant surfacing options for all kinds of outdoor spaces including carparks, paths, and driveways, using only top-quality mate-
rials and methods to guarantee top tier results. In addition, they offer a range of edging such as timber or concrete, concrete formwork and concrete applications. Driveway Specialists Nelson is also equipped for excavation work, with a number of trucks ready to cart. “We can also take care of anything from driveways to patches to pathways carparks and potholes,” Abe adds. Whether your project involves enhancing functionality or boosting curb appeal, the team is ready to transform your outdoor space into something both beautiful and long-lasting.
The company’s commitment to quality service extends across the Nelson Tasman region, with operating hours from Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. “Contact us today for a free quote for your resurfacing project. Let us help you transform your outdoors into a beautiful, durable, and safe area that you can enjoy for years to come. At Driveway Specialists Nelson we are committed to providing our clients with the best possible experience!”
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Nelson swimmers star at international meet
STEPHEN STUART
Nelson’s leading swim coach Glen Findlay was expecting big things from his two top charges at the 2024 Tri Series in Hamilton this month and they duly delivered.
William Seymour and Brooke Swann were part of the 20 strong New Zealand “A” team that Glen was guiding at the three day short course meet at Water World and there was added pressure on the eve of competition.
“One of our top swimmers from Auckland broke his toe in three places. Not in the pool though. He was playing basketball,” Glen says.
The 18 and under event was all about endurance with five matches, or meets, over the three days and the Nelson pair thrived on the big workload.
William emerged as the leading male points scorer with wins in the 50 metres freestyle, 50m backstroke and the 25m under-water swim.
The Waimea College student also
had three second place finishes. Brooke continued her outstanding butterfly season winning the 50m fly in a meet record. And that tri series has been going
for 24 years!
While she was second in her preferred 100m behind a top Victorian swimmer, the Nayland College student set a new personal
best time of one minute and one second.
Her goal is to go sub one minute and Glen says she is getting “tantalisingly close”.
Spring Challenge 2025 location confirmed
The annual Merrell Spring Challenge multi-sport event is heading south again.
Tasman-based race promoter Nathan Fa’avae has confirmed Glenorchy will stage the event next September.
“It is only 45 kilometres from Queenstown so the infrastructureis ideal when you have around a thousand
athletes taking part,” Nathan says.
It will be hard act to follow after the huge turn out in Tasman last month.
Te Anau, which is further south than Glenorchy, hosted the Spring Challenge in 2022.
The 2025 Spring Challenge will run from 19 to 21 Septembe.
As participants embark on this
transformative journey, they’re not simply teammates; they’re comradesin-arms, propelling each other toward excellence. And as the dust settles and the finish line beckons, it’s not just triumph they’ll relish, but the invaluable bonds and treasured moments that epitomise the essence of the Merrell Spring Challenge.
Work starts on new football changing rooms
FROM PAGE 1
ANDREW BOARD
Football players at Jubilee Park will be pulling on their socks and boots in relative luxury next season as work on the ground’s changing rooms has begun.
A small ceremony for the turning of the first sod was held last Friday morning with Richmond Football Club president Chris Sibbald declaring that the club’s all-conquering women’s team will have their own changing rooms on the opening day of the season – a key motivation for the project.
“This is a significant landmark for our club and will make a big difference for all our teams, but particularly our women’s team which has
won the league for the last five or so years and we haven’t had adequate facilities for them so it’s great to be able to start work on this project and give them some changing rooms they deserve.”
Life members said discussion about the facilities had been on-going for about 15 years, possibly more, but the dedication of a few club members has finally seen it get over the line.
“Nick Rose and Aaron Walton have put in a power of work to get us to this point,” Chris says.
The build will see four new changing rooms built with toilet and shower facilities, along with a new referees’ room and extended bar for the adjoining clubrooms.
It is expected to cost about $680,000 with the council funding $435,000
of that.
Chris says the support from local businesses who have been willing to do work at cost to help make it happen has been “outstanding”.
“The support from our community has been amazing.
“From the committee to club members to businesses to the council, it’s been fantastic.”
Scott Construction are the main contractor on the build, which is expected to take around three months.
Tasman District Council reservices and facilities manager Grant Reburn says the new facility is much needed.
“We could see that the club was trying to expand and cater for wider user group with cricket and women’s leagues, so we needed to provide a changing facility that was fit for purpose to cover those groups.”
“Brooke’s previous best was 1.3 so she is knocking the door down.” She also recorded a pb in the 200m fly.
Brooke and William then combined in the individual medley relay team and beat the Australians.
“So half the IM team was out of Nelson,” Glen says with a grin.
Although Victoria won the series overall, Glen was wrapped with the way his team performed.
“You have to deal with fatigue so the times get slower the longer the meet runs.
“It is a good test of determination,” the New Zealand head coach adds.
Another highlight came poolside with 18 year old William throwing down the challenge to the Victorian and Western Australia by leading the haka.
After a couple of weeks break, the attention will switch to the long course season with Glen taking 20 Nelson South swimmers to the Wellington Championships at the Kilbirnie Aquatic Centre.
William Seymour, left, Brooke Swann and Glen Findlay in their Team NZ kit. Photo: Nelson South Swim Club.
Milestone Homes Top of the South Speedway starts its “Biggest and Brightest” season in the club’s history, the headline show is the NZ Super Stock title on January 10th and 11th, arguably the biggest championship in NZ Speedway. The national event will be showcasing the brand-new lights that have been installed around the track over the winter months, the modern LED lights one of the major investments the club has made over the offseason. The club have been busy over the winter months, new seating from the past-Jade Stadium has started to be installed around the track, a long-term plan to increase seat-
ing and comfort with more NZ titles on the calendar in the coming seasons, the crew viewing area has been enlarged allowing for more public space. Milestone Homes have been confirmed as naming rights sponsors for a further 10 years, the partnership stronger than ever.
The race calendar packs in a huge programme over the summer season, with the opening meeting on October 19th featuring the Trackman Trophy for all grades, then Nelson’s biggest fireworks display lights up the sky along with the “Racing for the Kids” cycle race as part of the family fun night.
The Nelson Tigers Super Stock team has been reformed as a development squad that will take on Palmy team’s champions “The Glen Eagles” on November 16th, the Sprint Cars and Super Saloons make a return to the track on November 23rd, watch for Ian Burson in his new Super Saloon while son Jack will be in the 75n Sprint Car.
The Streetstock Tri-Series runs
on December 14th before a few visiting Super Stocks might get some time on the track at the Xmas Derby on the 28th, then it’s the DC Equipment NZ Super Stock championship. It’s shaping up to be an epic battle with 3x champion Asher Rees gunning for a 4th straight title, but there are plenty out there trying to stop him - will he find enough friends to help him, it is the
New Show Home
must-see event?
The T.Q.’s will light up the track with the NZ GP, SNZ “Competitor of the Year.” Jeremy Webb won the NZ title here last year, the most successful driver in NZ Championship history will lead a star line-up, a week after their NZ title meeting in Canterbury. The War of The Wings returns in February, the “WOW” series will once again be hotly contest-
ed with local driver Connor Rangi keen to do well on his home track.
The Rees Tour has been added to the PTS Super Stock Stampede, it will be an absolute mega weekend of racing. With the Rees Tour kicking off in Blenheim on Friday, Nelson have shifted the Stampede to Saturday night and Sunday afternoon to accommodate the expected 80+ convoy of cars that will travel to every S.I. track over a three week period. The weekend also hosts the Stock Car Summer Slam, Ministock Mania and Classic Stock cars. The season will wrap up with the “Queen of the Clay” Ladies Stock car event before the Easter Extravaganza on holiday Sunday.
The Junior Member's club will once again be sponsored by Nelson Towing + Salvage, memberships are available for kids aged up to 15yrs old, just $25 gets you a season pass and a Junior members T-Shirt plus organised activities before the meetings. The club have a Facebook page, and memberships can be done online or at the souvenir shop at the track. It’s a great way to get involved with the drivers and learn what goes on behind the scenes.
The souvenir shop will be stocking DC Equipment NZ Super Stock merchandise, bucket hats, shirts and Hoodies are all able to be pre-
ordered, along with a great range of other goodies, plus programmes, entry/membership/derby forms, it’s worth popping in for a look.
The regular entry prices for adults will be $25, seniors $20, kids 5 to 16yrs $10, under 5 free, while family passes for 2 adults and up to 3 children are $50. The NZ Super Stock title entry prices will be slightly higher, first night will be adults $30, family pass $60, second night adult $35, family $70, seniors and kids prices remain unchanged. Season passes are available, adults $300, family $600.
Tickets can be pre-purchased via the Nelson Speedway website or at the Richmond Mall kiosk, along with normal gate entry, it is highly recommended to pre-purchase for the NZ Super Stock and PTS/Rees tour events.
The meetings start at 6pm, the main gate opens from 4.30 pm (Easter and Sunday meetings will differ).
Nelson Speedway president Wayne Russ welcomes everyone along to the biggest season in the club’s history. With the NZ Super Stock title, the PTS and Rees tour, Coca-Cola fireworks, NZ T.Q. GP and the return of the Tigers, it promises to be an action-packed season, and we look forward to seeing you all trackside.
It was a frustrating day for Wolves allrounder Joseph O’Connor as his side went down to Stoke-Nayland by eight wickets in their one day match at the Māpua Domain. Wolves had triumphed in their two major Nelson club cricket clashes last season. Photo: Chris Symes/Shuttersport.
Richmond siblings claim table tennis silver
STEPHEN STUART
Two Richmond siblings are celebrating silver medal success at the New Zealand Junior and Senior Table Tennis Championships in
Josh and David Pigott teamed up with Dimitri Bell in the U19 grade. While Josh is 17, the others are only 14, which highlights the lack of playing numbers in that age group.
The trio progressed through round robin singles and doubles play and almost upset Canterbury in the final, eventually losing 4-3. They were coached by former New Zealand junior representative Daniel Astle who won two gold medals in the over 45 section.
“Daniel gave us some playing tips and the bigger picture stuff. We were pretty pleased with how we went,” Josh says.
Another set of brothers James and Ollie King also claimed silver in the U13 grade which included three other Nelson teams. They combined with Richmond’s Phoenix Hollyman and Wakefield’s William Robinson.
“We came together just a week before the nationals. We were a happy team playing new styles. It was fun,” 12-year-old James says. Keeping it in the family, the
brothers’ mother Anna also won silver - three of them in the doubles - and a bronze in the singles.
It was a hectic nine days for Anna as she is also the president of Table Tennis Nelson.
“The tournament was really vibrant. There were so many events and always something to watch. The playing level was amazing,” Anna notes.
She confirms it is tough for smaller regions to compete with the bigger ones like Auckland, North Shore and Canterbury, but hosting gave Nelson the chance to field more teams at the Saxton
Stadium event.
“And we showed plenty of spirit.”
Table Tennis New Zealand Chief Executive Izania Downie rated the tournament scheduling the best in years.
“There were up to 300 competitors but the nationals ran smoothly with no dramas,” Izania comments. As she prepared for the big clean up at the end of day nine, Anna King was already looking to hosting their next Nelson event. “We have a women’s Have A Go competition coming up. The women’s game is getting stronger all the time.”
Sport Start fund given significant boost by NBS
A Sport Tasman funding initiative that breaks down financial barriers to allow more kids to participate in sport has been given a significant boost thanks to a new partnership between Sport Tasman and local banking services provider NBS.
Sport Start allows more tamariki and rangatahi to take part in physical activity opportunities by providing the financial assistance they need to cover all or some of the cost of registration fees for sport. The fund is open to young sports lovers in Nelson, Tasman, Marlborough, Buller and Kaikōura.
Applications can be made through clubs or organisations that have registered with Sport Tasman. Each child is allowed two applications per year with the fund providing $30 per application for five to 12 year olds and $50 per application for 13 to 18 year olds.
Lesley McIntosh, GM Community Outcomes of Sport Tasman explains “Sport Start is a localised fund. To have a local organisation such as NBS support our kaupapa and
mission of reducing inequitable barriers to participate in physical activity is exciting. The costs associated with our tamariki and rangatahi taking part in sport is a real barrier for many whānau and Sport Start provides an opportunity to ease some of this burden.
Enabling youth to participate in physical activity is a must as the benefits to their overall wellbeing and connections are invaluable. We love that NBS
values this too. To say we are looking forward to our partnership with NBS, to enable tamariki and rangatahi from across the region to access and enjoy physical activity, is an understatement.”
NBS General Manager Commercial, Howie Timms, echoes the sentiment of Sport Tasman “We are so pleased to be working with Sport Tasman on this new sponsorship. We both see that this funding
will remove some financial barriers that will enable more rangitahi to participate in sport. We know that physical activity leads to better health and mental wellbeing outcomes, so we are delighted to be involved.”
To find out more about the Sport Start fund and how to make an application, visit the Sport Tasman website sporttasman.org.nz or email admin@sporttasman.org.nz
About Sport Tasman
Sport Tasman is one of 14 charitable regional sports trusts that support New Zealanders to be more active and healthy.
Their aim is to enhance lives through physical activity. Sport, active recreation and play are their key tools to enable this.
As a charity, Sport Tasman work alongside communities in Kaikōura, Marlborough, Buller, Nelson and Tasman to create and support countless physical activity opportunities.
Sport and recreation enriches lives physically, socially, emotionally, cognitively and even spiritually. It contributes economically an estimated $5.2 billion to New Zealand’s economy.
About NBS
For over 160 years, NBS has provided personal, business and community banking services to local people, offering a wide range of banking services including transactional and savings accounts, term investments, home and business loans. With eight branches located in the high streets of Nelson, Richmond, Motueka, Tākaka, Murchison, Westport, Greymouth and Ashburton, NBS is committed to serving the communities in which they operate.
NBS people take pride in providing exceptional personal service and use their local knowledge to make timely decisions for their clients.
As a ‘mutual’ institution, NBS is owned by their clients. This model allows NBS to provide meaningful financial support to the community through sponsorships and grants to hundreds of sporting, arts, health, educational, and environmental organisations. Over the last three years, NBS has invested $3.6 million back into the community. NBS is not a registered bank. For further information on NBS visit nbs.co.nz.
Nic Foster of NBS with Ed Shuttleworth, Sport Tasman’s chief executive.
Nelson.
David Pigott,left, Josh Pigott and Dimitri Bell make up the Nelson U19 team who won silver at the New Zealand Junior and Senior Table Tennis Championships. Photo: Stephen Stuart.
30 years of footing it
STEPHEN STUART
‘Keep On Running’, a smash hit record from almost 60 years ago, aptly describes Nelson podiatrist Chris Gates. He lined up in the inaugural Abel Tasman Coastal Classic in 1994 and has fronted every year since except 2021 when Covid-19 stopped the iconic event in its track.
So Chris was back on the start line for the 30th and final trail run from Araroa to Marahau on Saturday.
Chris reckons the conditions were almost too good.
“It was pretty hot, about 19 degrees,” says Chris, who cut out the 33 kilometre event in just over four and a half hours.
Running on the sand makes it more like the marathon distance, over 42 kilometres.
It was a far cry from 1994 when Chris remembers miserable conditions.
“There were rough seas getting to Totaranui by boat for the start and then it was cold and wet. Some competitors were only wearing singlets,” Chris recalls.
It didn’t deter Chris coming back each year.
“I used to be competitive with top ten finishes and winning a few age groups, but now I’m older I don’t look at the competition,” says the 65-year-old. Does his day job help preparing him for the annual slog?
“My feet have been pretty good over the years. I did pull my calf once and still lined up. I paid for that for the next three months.”
Another 1994 original was also among the 335 starters at
the weekend, Lynda Watson from Hokitika.
And what became of the inaugural winners?
Well, it turns out my brother-in-law John Knight, a former Ironman triathlete, won the men’s event with his Nelson-born wife Judy finishing third behind her mountain running rival Andrea Devine. She’s since returned to England while Lake Hayes-based John was competing in a bike race in Glenorchy at the weekend.
Final thoughts from my sporty sister sum up the enduring appeal of the coastal classic.
“It was so wet and cold we were given plastic rubbish bags to wear at the finish line. We absolutely loved it and came back and did the race again years later,” says Judy.
Speedway set to roar in to life
STEPHEN STUART
Excitement is mounting ahead of the new Nelson Speedway season starting this Saturday night.
The pits at the Appleby track have been buzzing at the past two practise sessions and blessed with good weather, too.
11 classes are carded for opening night with up to
100 drivers raring to go.
The Weekly caught up with club president Wayne Russ as he was putting a new engine into his son Callum’s race car and he confirmed entries were on a par with last year.
It’s an early start, 6pm, to make sure they can get through up to 24 races before the 10pm cut off to abide by noise regulations,
even though they are in the countryside.
“It is the world we live in today,” Wayne observes.
Nelson Speedway will race every fortnight with the undoubted highlight, hosting the New Zealand Super Stock Championships in January.
“It has been 14 years since they were last here so it is a big deal,” Wayne enthuses.
Nelson runner Chris Gates was a constant presence in the Abel Tasman Coastal Classic. Photo: Simon Burge.
Community Notices
MONDAY
SOCIAL EVENING BADMINTON, Mon, 7.30pm, Badminton Hall. Racquets avail. Bring indoor court shoes. Ph: Joe 0277834720. $5/night.
ELYSIUM WIDOW AND WIDOWERS GROUP meet Mon, 10am, Ginger, Richmond Mall, for coffee & friendship. New faces always welcome. Ph: Margaret 0272600748.
OSTEOACTIVE, Mon, 10am, Holy Trinity Hall, Richmond. Exercise class for participants with osteoarthritis. Seated and standing exercises. Exercise tips for osteoarthritis self-management. Ph: Nicola 0210788609. Koha $5-$8.
JUNIOR BADMINTON, Mon, 6-7.30pm, Badminton Hall. For School-aged kids. Racquets avail. Ph: Joe 0277834720 / e: joe@peak.co.nz.
PHILOSOPHY GROUP Meet 2nd & 4th Mon of the month, 9.30am. S.O.S Coffee House, 42 Rutherford St. All welcome. TXT Zoe 0279741758.
TUESDAY
HOW TO LOOK AT ART Join The Suter Art Gallery‘s director Julie Catchpole for a guided walk of Richmond’s large scale artwork images. Tues, 22 Oct, 5.30pm, Richmond Library. Start from Richmond Library’s Queen Street Entrance.
NELSON 50+WALKING GROUP, Weekly walks average 10 kms. Tues, 22 Oct, Centre of NZ / Branford Park. Meet at Botanics at 9.45 am. BYO lunch. Ph: Val 035481711.
RICHMOND TENNIS CLUB SOCIAL TENNIS Tues, 9.30am, Richmond Tennis Club, Gladstone Rd. If raining, we play card games. Morning tea provid-
ed. Info Ph: 0274872480.
HOPE TENNIS CLUB SOCIAL TENNIS, Tues, 9.30am, Hope Tennis Courts, Hope Domain. All abilities welcome. Info Ph: 0211729257.
HOPE INDOOR BOWLING CLUB, Tues,7pm, Hope Hall. All ages welcome. Wear soft soled shoes. First 2 nights free. Ph: Bill 035449273.
DEMENTIA FRIENDLY LIBRARY GROUP Tues, 10.30-11.30am, Richmond Library. If you are living with Dementia, this group is for you. Come along to this supportive, friendly group at your familiar local library. Free.
CAN YOU HOLD A TUNE? Tues, 7.15pm, Club Waimea. Four-part harmony chorus seeks new members, male or female from all voice ranges. e: Tasmonics@gmail.com or Ph: Philippa 0275497713.
WINTER CARDS, EUCHRE, Tues, 1-1.30pm, Stoke Bowling Club, 18a Ranui Rd. Warm & friendly atmosphere, afternoon tea provided. All welcome. Ph: Lesley 0210407768.
WEDNESDAY
SHOCKTOBER: 3 Steps for Life Session. Wed, 23 Oct, 10.30-12pm, Richmond Library. A Hato Hone St John Community Educator will guide you through the 3 Steps for Life with time to practise on a manikin.
STORYTIME AT RICHMOND LIBRARY, Wed during term time, 10-10.30am, Join us for exciting stories and songs for 2-5 year olds and their caregivers. Free.
SING YOUR LUNGS OUT: Wed, 10am, Club Waimea. A fun filled singing class for those with
DEADLINE: 10AM FRIDAY - 30 WORDS OR LESS BY EMAIL ONLYPLEASE SEND TO: events@topsouthmedia.co.nz
respiratory conditions. No singing experience is necessary. Ph: Jess 0275467675 – Respiratory Support Nelson.
TASMAN TRACKIES CYCLING, Wed During winter and spring (Jun – Oct), 11-12.30pm, Saxton Velodrome. Fun track racing events. Coffee & chat at ZINK Café after. Track bikes avail free of charge. Road and mountain bikes can be used. All levels and ages welcome. Coaching & bike set up avail. Ph: Murray 0276450033, or Roger Ph: 0274756459.
THURSDAY
JUDO, Juniors, Thurs, 5-6pm, Seniors/ Competitive, Tues/Thurs, 6pm, Peewees, Thurs, 4.30pm, 20A Gladstone Rd (upstairs Waimea Old Boys Rugby). Ph: Michelle 0275422254.
ENGLISH CONVERSATION GROUP, Thurs, 11-12pm, Richmond Library. Would you like to improve your English with a qualified, experienced ESOL teacher? Join our friendly English conversation group. Free.
TAICHI: Thurs, 9-11am during school holidays, Anglican Church Community Hall, Dorset St. Learn qigong and taichi. Stillness, breath, movement. Ph: Merrick 0210636620, e: taichi.internal.arts.aotearoa@gmail.com.
ATLAS (at the library after school), 2nd Thurs during term time, 3.30-4.30pm, Richmond Library.
A.T.L.A.S. is a place for fun, crafts, games, and new books! Year 6+. Please register at the library.
RICHMOND WELCOME GROUP, 1st & 3rd Thurs of month, 10am, Paragon Cafe Langdale Drive Richmond. Do you want to make new friends? Join a friendly group for coffee and a chat. Ph: Ansley/ Phillip 035410350 | 0272212943.
RICHMOND CREATIVE FIBRE Meet, 2nd, 3rd & 4th Thurs of month, 9.30am, Birchwood Hall, Richmond Showgrounds. Come and meet others who enjoy working with fibre. Ph: Janine 035445023.
DO YOU WANT TO MAKE NEW FRIENDS join a friendly group for coffee and a chat.1st & 3rd Thurs of month, Paragon Cafe Langdale Drive Richmond. Ansley/ Phillip 5410 350 or 0272212943
FRIDAY
RICHMOND/WAIMEA RSA. Meeting for a social gathering. Fri, 18 Oct, 4.30pm, Club Waimea. Ex Service personal and partner’s welcome. Queries Ph: 0277127247.
WAIMEA LADIES’ FRIENDSHIP CLUB, meet, 3rd Fri of month, 9.45am, Richmond Church of Christ, cnr Croucher & D’arcy Sts. Welcome new members, interesting speakers, morning tea, dining out, outings. Ph: Bev 035441469
SATURDAY
RICHMOND TENNIS CLUB SOCIAL TENNIS, Sat, 1.30-3pm. Open to club players, visitors & members of other clubs. $5 non-members. Ph: 0274872480.
FREE GUIDED MEDITATION, Sat, 3pm, under the white pergola of Washbourne Gardens. Relax, unwind, and enjoy inner peace & stillness. For info e: meditaterichmond@gmail.com. Free.
SUNDAY
WAIMEA HARRIERS, Sat, 19 Oct, Mapua S + F 10k event.Reg on deck of Mapua Community Hall from 1.15 - 2pm. Registration closes 2pm. Wel-
come all runners and walkers to join us. waimeaharriers.nz for info.
RELATIONSHIPS AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH Sun, 20 Oct, 3-4.15pm, Get fresh insights and perspectives on how to form better relationships with everyone in your life. Join us for a lively spiritual discussion. Eckankar.nz. Ph 0211882036.
SUNDAY WORSHIP You are warmly invited to attend weekly worship. Sun, 10am, Nelson Tasman Methodist Parish Church, 94 Neale Ave Stoke. Morning tea follows the service.
NELSON SPIRITUALIST CHURCH, weekly service, Sun 7-8pm, Cnr Tipahi and Motueka st. All welcome. Healing avail before and after service.
GENERAL GROUPS
NELSON RAILWAY FOUNDERS PARK. Railcar is running, Thurs, Fri, Sat this week, weather permitting. Train will run Sun, Both start 11am. Follow us on Facebook.
MAGENTA CREATIVE SPACE EXHIBITION, during Sept, Richmond Library. Celebrating Mental Health Awareness Week. “Community is what we create together.”
AGED CONCERN EVENTS & CLASSES, 62 Oxford St. Ph: Miriam 035447624 ext 6 for a schedule of events.
BLOOD CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meet monthly. Info Ph: Heather 0274444708.
FEELING SAD, STRESSED, DEPRESSED, OR STUCK? Identify explore new ways to move forward with a Life Linc Counsellor. Up to 10 face-toface counselling sessions avail now for individuals & couples. 035482400 lifelinc.co.nz.
Community Notices are free to community groups, schools, churches, gold coin donation events and fundraising. Due to the popularity of this column,while every effort will be made, inclusion cannot be guaranteed for free ads. If you want to place a business advert or want to advertise a course you are running, please call classified ads and public notices on 544 9037.
R G & E F MACDONALD
TRUST BOARD
(Established 1979 as a Charitable Trust)
Alzheimer’s Society Nelson Incorporated
The Trustees of the Board have approved the following grants for the 12 months ended 30 June 2024 $2,100
Garden to Table Trust
Hearing Association Nelson Inc
Lifelinc Nelson
Loaves & Fishes
Nelson Multiple Sclerosis Society Inc
Parkinson’s New Zealand
Perinatal Support Nelson Inc
Presbyterian Support
Richmond Group Riding for the Disabled Inc
Whakatu Dance Theatre Trust
Whakatu Group Riding for the Disabled Inc
Grants made since incorporation now total $1,010,505.
$26,600
Grants are in general confined to organisations of a charitable nature who disperse the funds locally, which satisfy the criteria set out below:
For the relief of poverty, assistance to disadvantaged members of our community and support for organisations providing healthcare and education to their members and service recipients.
Application forms for grants are obtained from:
Email: MacDonaldtrust@findex.co.nz
Post: R G & E F MacDonald Trust Board C/- Findex PO Box 10 Nelson 7040
Free Wooden Pallets
Need a regular supply of wooden pallets? We have 4 to 6 pallets available each Wednesday. If you can pick them up from an easy to access site in Stoke every week, we’re keen to hear from you. Please contact delivery@topsouthmedia. co.nz or text 0273 121 422 for more details.
• Richmond Mall admin counter
• Bayleys Real Estate, Queen St
• On the Spot, Berryfields
• Connings
• Club Waimea, Richmond
• GreenWood Corner Store, Appleby
• Ewings Poultry Store, Hope
• Mapua 4 Square
• Upper Moutere store
• Tapawera 4 Square
• Brightwater 4 Square
• Wakefield 4 Square
• Hodgsons store, Murchison
• St Arnaud store
Summerset Arts and Crafts Market!
Friday 18th and Saturday 19th October 2024 from 10am – 3pm. 16 Sargeson Street, Stoke, Nelson.
Summerset In The Sun’s Arts and Craft market, showcasing some of the creative talent in our community. There’s something for everyone. The Devine Café will be open serving up delicious food and coffee. Plus, our creations from our annual Waste to Waist showcase will be on display. We will also have our show homes open.
• Top South Media office Main Rd Stoke
• Bayley’s Real Estate, Trafalgar St
• Woolworths, Paru Paru Road
• Fresh Choice, Nelson
• Nelson Library
• Milton St Dairy
• Atawhai Four Square
• Raglan Cafe, Tāhunanui
• Tāhunanui Library
• Tāhunanui Community Hub
• Stoke Bakery
• Top South Media office, Main Rd Stoke
• Richmond Library
• Richmond Mall admin counter
• Motueka Guardian office, Motueka
• Upper Moutere Store
• Mapua 4 Square
• Tasman Store
• Mrs. Smiths, Riwaka
• Tapawera 4 Square
• Fresh Choice, Takaka
• Takaka Library
• On The Spot, Collingwood
• Pohara Store
• Top South Media office
Main Rd Stoke Nelson Weekly
