Selwyn_Times: December 17, 2025

Wednesday, 17 December 2025 

Connecting Your Local Community 

starnews.co.nz 

Santa pays 

a visit to 

Lincoln 

Pages 4-5 

Greenkeeper’s 

work in national 

spotlight 

Page 24 

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Water company aims to reduce ‘bill shock’ 

BY DANIEL ALVEY 

More water meter readings may 

be on the way for residents. 

Readings are currently taken 

twice a year, with householders 

billed separately from rates for 

each cubic metre of water used. 

When Selwyn Water Ltd, the 

district’s new council-controlled 

organisation, takes over billing 

in July next year, it plans to 

increase the number of times 

water meters are read and the 

frequency of bills. 

Selwyn Water board chair 

Murray Strong said the idea 

behind the increased meter 

readings was to build a better 

database of the demand for 

water in different locations at 

different times of the year. 

“Ratepayers who are paying 

those charges often get a bill 

shock. If they are only getting 

one or two bills a year, they’re 

often quite big,” 

Strong said. 

“If we can 

increase the 

frequency of 

those meter 

reads, what that 

enables us to do 

is spread the cost 

for ratepayers. Murray Strong 

“It also 

enables us to have a much 

more demand-led approach to 

costing and building the capital 

programme for the future.” 

The frequency of readings 

will be determined in the next 

six months. 

Estimates show water and 

wastewater bills for households 

are expected to rise 16.5% or 

about $245 on average in the 

2025/26 financial year. 

Of the projected $245 increase, 

about $65 is expected to come 

from the amount households 

use, with the remainder coming 

from an increase in connection 

fees. 

Currently, the connection fee 

for water and sewage has been 

included as part of the general 

rates bill. As of July, it will be 

charged separately by Selwyn 

Water. 

It is predicted the total bill 

will be on average $1552 for 

drinking water and wastewater. 

› Continued on Page 8 

Making 

a splash 

The Selwyn Special Olympics swim 

squad is celebrating a standout week 

at the national summer games in 

Christchurch. The seven-strong squad 

brought home 15 medals, a lot of 

special memories and plenty to be 

proud of after the week-long event. 

• Full story, page 8

2 | Selwyn Times, December 17, 2025 starnews.co.nz 

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from the editor’s desk 

It is hard to believe another year is 

about to come to an end. 

How they flash by, and seemingly 

faster as the years add up. I look 

at the young and very promising 

reporters on our team, which also 

takes in The Star, Bay Harbour 

News and website starnews.co.nz. 

They weren’t born when I started 

out as a just turned 17-year-old, 

ditching high school after the 6th 

form for a journalism cadetship on a 

newspaper. 

I vividly recall my first day on 

the job, which could have been the 

last. The boss of the newspaper 

group I was going to work for was 

in Australia on holiday. He hadn’t 

told the receptionist I was starting 

and she did her best to show me the 

door. But, as I was on my way out, 

the second in command heard the 

receptionist from afar, and came to 

my rescue. 

The years and decades have 

disappeared super fast – a legacy 

myself and others who have been in 

the game for an age put down to the 

relentless deadlines we work to, and 

the speed required to make them. 

news 

New route for Christmas parade a hit 

Pages 4-5 

news 

Farmers Market feud heats up 

So today’s issue 

of the Selwyn 

Times is the last 

for another year; 

the first paper of 

2026 will be in 

your letterbox 

on January 7. 

Many thanks 

to our readers 

and advertisers. 

Selwyn Times wishes you all a 

fantastic Christmas. 

- Barry Clarke 

barry@alliedmedia.co.nz 

Attendees gave the Lincoln Christmas Parade and Market’s new 

temporary location a thumbs up on Saturday. 

A family-run Southbridge farm has been branded “disrespectful” 

after setting up a stall outside the Otago Farmers Market in 

response to being declined a spot inside. 

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NEWS Selwyn Times, December 17, 2025 | 3 

Billboard work 

on hold over 

consent issue 


Construction of a controversial 

digital billboard in Prebbleton 

has been paused following 

concerns raised by the 

community and council staff. 

The billboard was granted 

consent by the council in August 

without public notification, and 

residents only became aware 

of the project once groundwork 

began on the 9m-high sign. 

The Prebbleton Community 

Association wrote to the council 

on Tuesday last week to stop the 

construction. 

“Whilst this may be commercial 

land, it is also alongside one of 

the most dangerous pedestrian 

crossings in Prebbleton and very 

close to residential properties,” 

the letter said. 

Association chair Jane Elms 

said the biggest concern was 

safety around the crossing on 

Springs Rd. 

She said although few accidents 

were recorded in official 

statistics, there were many 

anecdotal reports of residents 

having near misses at the crossing, 

which is about 50m from 

the billboard site. 

The billboard would be an 

“added distraction” for the 

already busy area, particularly 

when Prebbleton School pupils 

are going to and from school, 

Elms said. 

Prebbleton School principal 

Kim Alexander did not want to 

comment about the billboard 

when asked by Selwyn Times. 

By Friday, a “pause on consent” 

had been put in place by the 

council after concerns were 

raised by council staff. 

Said acting council chief 

executive Steve Gibling in a 

response to the association: “This 

is because our roading team has 

raised the concern that some of 

the preparatory works might 

extend into the road reserve 

(land set aside for the road), 

which is not permitted under the 

resource consent. The consent 

only allows the billboard to be 

fully within private property.” 

Gibling said a corridor access 

request would be required for 

work to continue. 

“We’ve also asked the consent 

holder to arrange a survey 

to confirm exactly where the 

preparatory work has been done. 

“We do not expect these extra 

An artist’s impression of the proposed 9m 

billboard in Prebbleton where work has 

been stopped after the council became 

concerned it was encroaching on the road. 

The sign (circled in red) is about 50m 

from a busy pedestrian crossing. 

steps to be completed by the consent 

holder until mid-January at 

the earliest,” Gibling said. 

He said they hoped to meet with 

the consent holder this week. 

Elms said the pause was a 

win for the community, saying 

residents now needed to trust the 

process. She thanked the council 

for listening to the group’s 

concerns. 

Elms said the association ultimately 

wants the billboard plan 

scrapped altogether. 

While digital billboards are a 

common sight in Christchurch, 

getting one built in Selwyn has 

proved more difficult. 

In May, strong community 

opposition saw the council 

reconsider its plan for a similarsized 

billboard near the Selwyn 

Aquatic Centre in Rolleston. It 

was also processed as a nonnotified 

consent. 

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Offices also located at: 

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4 | Selwyn Times, December 17, 2025 NEWS 


Lincoln Santa parade’s new 

A new route for Lincoln’s Santa parade 

did not deter a large crowd from lining 

the streets to catch a glimpse of the 

big guy. With roadworks making Gerald 

St unusable for the parade and market 

this year, the parade instead ran down 

North Belt, James St and along Liffey 

Pl, while the market moved alongside 

the Liffey. The new route was deemed 

a success, with a wider street, more 

viewing locations and more shade, 

with many attendees wanting the 

temporary variation to continue in 

the future. 

PHOTOS: DANIEL ALVEY 

The festive season is nearly here 

and our team would like to wish all 

our clients and their families - twolegged 

and four-legged - a very happy 

Christmas. 

If you’re planning holiday travel, now’s 

the perfect time to check that your 

pets are up to date with their 

vaccinations, flea and 

worm treatments and any 

medications they’ll need 

over the break. 

Kennels and catteries 

require current vaccinations, so a 

quick check now can save stress 

later. If you’re unsure about your 

pets status or need to book an 

appointment, our reception team is 

here to help. 

Wishing you all a safe, happy 

and relaxing festive season. 

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route proves popular 

Santa to 

hit Darfield 

streets for 

first time 


Darfield will have its first Santa 

parade on Saturday, organised 

by the Darfield Residents 

Association. 

Association chair Harvey Polglase 

said more young families 

are moving into Darfield. 

“With all that new growth 

inevitably means more young 

families, and they need to be 

able to access the same sort 

of entertainment that kids in 

Rolleston, for example, can,” 

Polglase said. 

The parade will start at 

10.45am from McHughs Forest 

Park on Horndon St, and make 

its way down Kimberley Rd and 

North Tce to the Darfield Recreation 

Centre. 

Polglase said the association 

has been working for much of 

the year to organise the event. 

“With strong community 

sponsorship and a wide variety 

of floats entered, the parade 

promises to be a spectacular 

showcase of local creativity and 

holiday spirit,” he said. 

After the parade, there will be 

a Christmas extravaganza at the 

reserve, with a bouncy castle, 

face painting, lolly scramble, 

free sausage sizzle, and live jazz 

for the adults. 

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‘Not interested’: 

Super City idea 

fails to stick 


An emphatic no. 

That is deputy mayor 

Brendan Shefford’s reaction 

to Selwyn being folded into a 

super city with Christchurch 

and the Waimakariri District. 

The idea was refloated by 

Christchurch City Council staff 

in a briefing to city councillors 

two weeks ago. They proposed 

amalgamating the metro areas 

of Christchurch, 

Selwyn and 

Waimakiriri as 

an alternative to 

the Government’s 

proposed scrapping 

of regional 

councils. 

When Selwyn 

Times put the 

idea to district 

councillors, there 

was no support 

for it. 

Brendan 

Shefford 

Shefford said he was “just not 

interested at all”. 

He did not want to see Selwyn 

ratepayers fund infrastructure 

in Christchurch. 

“A lot of Selwyn’s infrastructure 

is new, and why would we 

want that to be gobbled up with 

older infrastructure?” 

While not keen on the idea, 

Mayor Lydia 

Gliddon did not 

want to take a 

“hard line” with 

the rules local 

government will 

operate under 

still uncertain. 

“It’s no surprise 

that conversation 

came out. Lydia Gliddon 

Christchurch has 

been quite clear for some time 

that it wants a unitary authority. 

I guess I was a little bit 

surprised to see Selwyn and 

Waimakiriri in that conversation 

so early,” Gliddon said. 

Last month, the Government 

proposed mayors of city 

and district councils would 

take over the duties of regional 

councils. The mayors would 

form 11 Combined Territories 

Boards (CTBs), which would be 

tasked with coming up with a 

plan for reorganising how their 

councils are structured in the 

long term. 

Gliddon said her focus was on 

Selwyn and protecting the community’s 

voice and spirit. 

“We know that it is so 

What is your opinion of Selwyn becoming part of a super city? 

Email barry@alliedmedia.co.nz 200 words or less 

important to our residents in 

Selwyn, and so that is something 

I’m pretty set that we 

need to retain. 

“There might be opportunities 

to find efficiencies with our 

neighbours on how we operate, 

but at the end of the day you’ve 

got to keep your localism there 

too,” Gliddon said. 

She reinforced a lot of work 

has to be done in understanding 

the reforms and how the new 

Resource Management Act legislation 

will fit in. 

“We need to see what 

functions are left (for local government) 

and who is best to 

deliver those.” 

CCC staff have yet to put any 

possible boundary on a super 

city, but if it were to include the 

urban areas of Rolleston, Lincoln, 

Prebbleton, West Melton, 

Kaiapoi and Rangiora, it would 

mean Christchurch’s population 

of about 419,000 would increase 

to about 514,000. 

Christchurch Mayor Phil 

Mauger told Selwyn Times with 

the proposed rates cap putting 

pressure on councils to find efficiencies, 

now is the time to be 

having this conversation. 

“We have previously 

PHOTO: GETTY 

proposed a unitary 

authority 

for Christchurch 

and have been 

encouraged 

by some district 

councils in 

Canterbury to 

consider this. 

We are also open 

to exploring a Phil Mauger 

greater Christchurch 

unitary model (super 

city), but have not considered 

the boundaries of a super city,” 

Mauger said. 

The idea of a super city is not 

new, with it last gaining traction 

from in 2023. 

Auckland moved to the model 

in 2010, with views mixed on its 

success. 

Councillor Tracey Macleod 

was born in Auckland and has 

lived there in three different 

stints, most recently nine years 

ago. She said a lot of community 

voice was lost in the transition 

to a super city. 

“The council becomes more of 

a board of directors with a highlevel 

view, more like a central 

government view, and the small 

communities receive less and 

less airtime,” Macleod said. 

In brief 

Minimal damage from fire 

thanks to passerby 

A passerby who noticed a fire in an 

illuminated signbox on the outside 

of The Laboratory in Lincoln likely 

saved the building from further 

damage. Lincoln deputy fire chief 

Tim Quinlivan said the brigade 

was called at 8.15pm on Friday. 

The fire was mostly out when they 

arrived, thanks to the efforts of the 

restaurant’s head chef Ben Hogan, 

who is also a volunteer firefighter. 

Quinlivan said it was lucky the fire 

was noticed before it spread. 

River health warning 

A health warning has been issued 

after potentially toxic algae 

was found in the Selwyn River 

at Glentunnel and at Whitecliffs 

Rd. The toxic algae (benthic 

cyanobacteria) can produce toxins 

harmful to people and animals, 

particularly dogs. People should 

avoid the area and dogs kept out of 

the water until the warning is lifted. 

For updates go to www.lawa.org.nz 

Trail run fundraiser 

A trail run will be held next month 

to raise funds to restore parts of 

the Craigieburn basin, which was 

badly damaged in a large fire about 

a year ago. The January 24 trail run 

is called Feel the Burn and is being 

organised by Craigieburn Basin 

Restoration Trust. For details, head 

to: craigieburnbasin.com 

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Grandmother’s return to yes 

Marion’s knees had started 

making decisions for her. And 

those decisions seemed to always 

be a ‘no’. 

No to coffee with friends. No 

to the Saturday market. No to 

the walking group she’d loved 

for years. At 72, the grandmother 

found herself declining more 

invitations than she accepted. 

“It wasn’t dramatic,” Marion 

explains. “My knees just wouldn’t 

cooperate. I’d wake up stiff as a 

board every morning. By the time 

I got going, half the day was gone. 

By afternoon, I was done.” 

The invitations kept coming at 

first. But when you say no enough 

times, people stop asking. 

“That’s when I realised my world 

had gotten smaller. I wasn’t seeing 

friends. I wasn’t going places. I 

was slipping out of my own life 

without really noticing.” 

Nothing ages you faster than 

missing out. Marion could feel it 

happening, becoming someone 

who “used to” do things. Used to 

meet friends for coffee. Used to 

go into the mall. Used to take the 

grandchildren out. 

“The ‘used to’ was the scary 

part,” she admits. “I was 72, not 

92. But my knees were making me 

live like I was much older.” 

She’d tried various approaches 

but nothing quite took the edge off 

when she needed it. 

Then a friend mentioned Koru 

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using the natural New Zealandmade 

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Marion ask about it at her local 

pharmacy. 

“I was highly sceptical,” Marion 

recalls. “But I picked up a bottle 

that afternoon. More sick of the 

status quo than anything.” 

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with a pleasant smell, nothing 

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before. There was a gentle warmth, 

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“I applied it before bed that first 

night. Again in the morning. I 

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Within a few weeks, Marion’s 

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Her world started expanding 

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First came coffee with a friend 

she hadn’t seen in months. A trip 

into the mall. Then rejoining her 

walking group for a stroll. 

“The real change was saying yes 

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reasons I couldn’t go.” 

She keeps Koru FX on her 

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But it’s a recent moment that 

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“Her son called about a beach 

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Marion beams. “Your world can 

shrink so slowly you don’t notice. 

Then one day you realise you’re 

watching life through the window 

instead of living it. But it can grow 

back. Mine did.” 

Her advice? “Don’t let your 

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someone asks me to do something, 

I start from a place of yes,” Marion 

pauses. 

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Selwyn swimmers 

celebrate summer 

games success 

The Selwyn Special Olympics 

swim squad made a splash at 

the national summer games in 

Christchurch last week, finishing 

up with 15 medals. 

The Special Olympics national 

summer games are the pinnacle 

event for athletes with an 

intellectual disability, with more 

than 1200 athletes from 42 clubs 

competing across 10 sports at six 

Christchurch venues. 

The five-day event, hosted by 

Special Olympics New Zealand, 

finished on Sunday. 

The games were “extra special” 

for the seven-strong Selwyn swim 

team, part of the Canterbury Special 

Olympics Club. 

For Jessica Peters, the event 

came with a special advantage 

– she was the first athlete to test 

the pool at the new Parakiore 

Sport and Recreation Centre last 

Jessica Peters at the start of the 

backstroke. 

month, trying out a pool much 

deeper than what the team are 

used to at their Selwyn Aquatic 

Centre base. 

Peters, 36, picked up a silver 

medal in the 25m backstroke, 

her first swimming medal at a 

national level. 

Proud mother and team coach 

Wanda Peters says that even 

back in high school, the teachers 

called her “101% Jessica” for 

the effort she put in despite her 

challenges. 

“We never thought she would 

ever swim, but Special Olympics 

coach Di Hunter convinced 

us to come along about 15 years 

ago and she taught her how to 

swim.” 

Peters first competed at 

the summer games in Palmerston 

North in 2013 in walking 

races, before progressing to 

swimming at later games in 

Wellington, Hamilton and now 

Christchurch. 

Wanda Peters said it was an 

emotional experience seeing 

Jessica powering through her 

backstroke heats and final, taking 

full advantage of both arms 

and legs, a skill she was previously 

unable to use. 

“All those years of training 

are now paying off, and she is so 

proud,” she said. 

“And normally she zig-zags a 

bit in backstroke, but she never 

hit the wall in that final.” 

The Selwyn Special Olympics swim team at the national summer games, from left, Olivia-Rose Cooke, Jessica Peters, Kylie 

Ashby, Celine Jenkins, team manager Suzi Lammers, Teresa Edgecumbe, Bella Lammers and Jeremy Simonsen. 

Selwyn teammate Celine 

Jenkins won gold in the same 

race. Peters added two bronze 

medals, while Jenkins also 

claimed another silver. 

Selwyn teammates Kylie 

Ashby, Jeremy Simonsen and 

Teresa Edgecumbe were part 

of a winning Canterbury relay 

team. Simonsen won a bronze, 

Ashby a silver and two bronzes, 

while Olivia-Rose Cooke and 

Bella Lammers claimed a relay 

bronze and a silver. 

Special Olympics chief 

executive Fran Scholey said the 

2025 summer games had taken 

the event to new standards. 

“The whole city got into it, 

and from what I can see in the 

media, the whole country got 

into it. 

“I am so proud of the team 

delivering the games, the general 

public and media for giving our 

athletes the recognition they 

deserve,” she said. 

Scholey had a special shoutout 

to the near 1000 volunteers, 

including many from Selwyn, 

who had stepped up to help make 

the games happen, as well as the 

hundreds of health professionals 

who had given their time to take 

the competitors through the 

Healthy Athletes Programme. 

“The programme takes all 1200 

athletes through five screenings, 

for eyesight, hearing, dental, 

footwear and general wellbeing,” 

Scholey said. 

“It is a core aspect of each 

national summer games, because 

many of our athletes often don’t 

complain if they can’t see or 

not hear properly and we have 

handed out around 300 new 

glasses this week.” 

The Selwyn athletes were 

among the hundreds lining 

up each day between their 

competitions to get their eyes and 

ears checked, which often ended 

up as a big reunion with athletes 

visiting from other regions. 

“The games is all about making 

friends, so the athletes look 

forward to seeing the friends they 

made four years ago,” Scholey 

said. 

The games wrapped up with 

the traditional disco at the Te Pae 

Convention Centre, a highlight 

for many of the athletes. 

• More sport, page 24 

Bella Lammers competes in the 50m 

breaststroke. 

Asset transfer largest in council’s history 

› From Page 1 

Stormwater will still be part 

of the rates bill, which averages 

at $175 a year. 

Selwyn Water was established 

in July following a controversial 

council decision that went 

against the majority of public 

submissions. 

Selwyn was the first council 

in the country to have its water 

services delivery plan approved 

by the Government. 

The council is expected to 

approve the transfer of $1.1 

BILL BREAKDOWN 

Estimated charges as of July 1 2026 

• Metered supply rate: $323, up from 

$258 

• Water connection: $422, up from $370 

• Sewage connection: $807, up from 

$702 

• Stormwater rate: $175, up from $152 

(council-controlled) 

billion worth of water and 

wastewater assets to the company 

tomorrow – the largest 

transaction in its history. 

Ahead of the transfer, Selwyn 

Water estimates it will take on 

about $133m of council debt. By 

the end of the 2025-26 financial 

year, the company is forecast to 

be borrowing 442% of its $58.7m 

revenue, leaving it about $34m 

short of its 500% borrowing limit. 

Asked by councillors at a 

briefing last week whether 

operating close to the debt limit 

was a concern, Strong declined 

to comment publicly due to the 

ongoing transfer process. 

Mayor Lydia Gliddon told 

Selwyn Times more information 

would be available once the 

transfer was complete. 

“Until the transfer happens 

and the wash-up period, we are 

not going to have the real firm 

numbers of what this looks like,” 

Gliddon said. 

While it may be operating close 

to its limit, Strong predicted the 

company is targeting financial 

sustainability by June 2028. 

Strong estimates more than 

$600 million will be needed for 

drinking water and wastewater 

infrastructure over the next 

decade. 

Water meters may be read more 

frequently when Selwyn Water takes 

over billing in July. 

Subdividing made easy. 

Call 0800 787 775 for a yarn or email us at hello@survusrural.co.nz


Selwyn Times, December 17, 2025 | 9 

CouncilCall 

Wednesday 17 December 2025 

Council and Community 

Board Meetings 

Public Forums 

Council and Community Board meetings are open to 

the public. Time is available at the start of meetings 

for people to speak on matters of concern. Please 

notify Therese Davel if you wish to speak at the 

Council meeting at least five days before the meeting 

by emailing council.secretary@selwyn.govt.nz 

Councillor Briefing 

Wednesday, 17 December, 9.30am 

Council Chambers 

Merry Christmas from Mayor Lydia 

As we reach the end of another busy year, I want to 

take a moment to thank everyone who helps make 

our district such a special place to live. 

settles in, our focus remains simple, to serve fairly, spend 

wisely, and plan for a future that keeps Selwyn strong and 

connected. 

Selwyn’s strength has always been its people - the 

volunteers, business owners, farmers, teachers, and 

families who quietly give their time and energy to their 

communities. Whether you’re organising local events, 

helping a neighbour, or simply keeping an eye out for 

others, your efforts are what make Selwyn thrive. 

It’s been a year of growth and change for our district, and 

I’m grateful for the way our communities continue to look 

forward with optimism and care. As your new Council 

Over the holiday season, I hope you find time to rest, 

recharge, and enjoy everything our district has to offer, 

from summer markets and events to our beautiful lakes 

and plains. Please take care on the roads, look out for one 

another, and reach out if someone nearby could use a 

hand. 

From my family to yours, Merry Christmas, happy holidays, 

and every good wish for 2026. 

Helping build rural economy 

The Council’s building and planning teams have 

gone farming to help working smarter with a key part 

of Selwyn life. 

The teams visited two dairy sheds with a specialist rural 

builder Rural Building Solutions Ltd, for a first-hand view of 

the sheds being built and in use. 

Christmas Day and New Year’s Day 

collections will be the Saturday following. 

All other collection days will occur as normal, 

including recycling collection on your usual 

alternate week. 

The team is expecting an increase in applications for 

building dairy sheds in the next year and the visit was part 

of keeping up with the specific needs around the building 

of dairy farming infrastructure, Head of Building Vanessa 

Mitchell says. 

“A lot of what our team work on, of course, is house 

builds. But dairy is a core part of Selwyn’s economy, so 

we want to stay in touch and have a really good first-hand 

understanding of the work. It was also a great opportunity 

to keep building our relationships and discuss how we can 

work better together to streamline the consent process and 

create efficiencies that benefit everyone involved.” 

Events 

Selwyn Community 

Choir 

Saturday 20 December 

Te Ara Ātea, 11.15am-12pm 

Free. All ages welcome. 

Drop-in. 

FREE 

Life Jacket Hire 

FREE 

Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 December 

Selwyn Aquatic Centre, 9am-1pm 

Heading to the water this summer? We have lifejackets 

of all sizes available for hire over the summer. 

3-week hire: $10 per lifejacket (return 12-16 January) 

6-week hire: $15 per lifejacket (return 2-6 February) 

Drop-in. 

Storywalk: 

Summer Moa Hunt 

FREE 

Wednesday 7 January 

Arthur’s Pass Community Centre, 11am-2pm 

Thursday 8 January 

Kakaha Park Prebbleton, 10am–2pm 

Drop-in. 

For all the latest news and events visit our website selwyn.govt.nz or follow us SelwynDistrictCouncil | 0800 SELWYN (735 996)



Lincoln Voice 

disbands after 

election wins 

The incorporated society set 

up to oppose the Earlsbrook 

subdivision has been dissolved. 

Lincoln Voice was formed in 

2022 to give residents a collective 

voice on planning matters, particularly 

the proposed 2100-home 

subdivision formerly known as 

Lincoln South. 

The group lost the opportunity 

to have its Environment Court 

appeal heard in 2023 after the 

council adopted the District Plan 

which rezoned the 

land and rendered 

the appeal null 

and void. 

The process 

prompted Lincoln 

Voice committee 

members Tracey 

Macleod, Denise 

Carrick and Aaron 

McGlinchy to Tracey Macleod 

stand for council, 

with all three elected. 

Said Macleod: “With the potential 

for perceived conflicts of 

interest, and no other members 

in a position to take on governance 

roles, the decision was 

made collectively to bring Lincoln 

Voice to a close.” 

Macleod said the remaining 

$7201 from the group’s appeal 

fundraiser would be distributed 

to several community groups. 

Carrick said the Lincoln Voice 

Facebook page was going to be 

renamed and would focus on 

environmental issues across the 

wider Canterbury region. 

Farmers’ market feud heats up 

BY LAINE PRIESTLEY 

A feud is brewing between 

the Otago Farmers Market 

and a family-run farm from 

Southbridge, which has opened 

a stall outside the market’s 

gates. 

On one side is Broadview Produce 

owner Gemma Thian who 

has set up outside the market 

after being declined a stall. 

On the other side is Otago 

Farmers Market general manager 

Michele Driscoll, who has 

accused the Thians of “sour 

grapes” and “profiting off our 

coat-tails”. 

Thian hit back, saying they 

were doing nothing wrong and 

accusing the market of being 

“cliquey”. 

She and her family had been 

coming to Dunedin to sell their 

produce on Saturday mornings 

since friends from Oamaru 

had to liquidate their certified 

organic farming business six 

months ago. 

Thian and her husband Will 

were then asked to take over 

the stall. 

“That’s just what you do in the 

farming business, I suppose. We 

often help each other out,” she 

said. 

After filling in on a temporary 

basis, they decided to apply for 

a permanent spot, but were 

declined. 

“They said we don’t offer anything 

that they can’t get locally 

– we responded with an appeal 

and said, ‘Look, you only have 

spray-free veges, you don’t have 

Broadview Produce owners Will and Gemma Thian harvest kale on their Southbridge farm. 

certified organic veges. It’s actually 

completely different’. 

“They came back and said 

‘No, definitely not’.” 

She said they had assured 

the Oamaru farmers’ customers 

they would provide certified 

organic produce to Dunedin, 

so they decided to get a mobile 

licence and operate in Anzac 

Ave – outside the market gates. 

In its newsletter, the Otago 

Farmers Market then accused 

them of “profiting off our coattails 

outside”. 

“Remember, that only all our 

authenticated, verified Otago 

Farmers Market vendors are all 

WITHIN our gates,” it read. 

Last Saturday, Thian said 

someone, “possibly from inside 

the gates”, reported them to 

the council during the market, 

accusing them of not having the 

right licence to operate on the 

roadside. 

The council came along, 

checked, gave them the all clear 

and moved on, she said. 

“It’s cliquey inside those gates.” 

PHOTO: GEOFF SLOAN 

In response, Driscoll said the 

Thians were “quite disrespectful 

setting up outside the gate”, 

adding she “certainly had no 

idea” who reported them to the 

council. 

The Thians are not the first 

Canterbury produce sellers 

to get off-side with the Otago 

Farmers Market. 

In 2003, Waimate egg farmer 

Colin Cairns was served a 

trespass notice after he kept 

turning up to the market 

despite being given the boot. 

Christmas Day Thursday 25 December 

All collections scheduled for this day will take place on 

Saturday 27 December. 

New Year’s Day Thursday 1 January 

All collections scheduled for this day will take place on 

Saturday 3 January. 

Holiday Season 

Kerbside Bin Collection 

All other collection days will occur as normal, including 

recycling collection on your usual alternate week. 

To receive these alerts via text visit selwyn.govt.nz/binalerts 

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 

22 

23 

24 

25 

26 27 

28 

December 

29 

30 

31 

1 

2 

3 

4 

January



With up to 50 

family favourites, 

it’s a big deal 

Any 3 for 

$ 

20 

Range varies by store. 

Offer excludes Metro stores.


We wish you a 

from the following businesses 

Closed 25th - 28th Dec & 

1st - 4th Jan 2025. 

For emergencies over Christmas 

please call: 03 366 1052. 

P: 03 347 7419. 

www.selwynvet.com 

95 Iport Drive, 

Rolleston 


Phone Mike: 027 272 8058 

sales@gmcontracting.co.nz 

www.gmcontracting.co.nz 

Wishing you all a great festive 

season from us all at the Boulevard 

Lifestyle Village. 

info@boulevardvillage.co.nz 

0274381593 

Canterbury Ltd 


551 Halswell Junction Road 

0800 GRUNDFOS / 0800 478 633 

www.pumps-filters.co.nz 

We wish everyone a very Merry 

Christmas and Prosperous New Year. 

Christmas hours: 

Closed from 12pm 23rd December 

2025 reopening 12th January 2026 

Ph 03 347 0487 

www.argylewelsh.co.nz. 

Have a wonderful Xmas and a 

Happy New Year 

We are available if you need us 

over the holiday period 

027 974 3561 

Visit us at 

www.tuffnelldrainage.co.nz 

417 Creyke Rd, Darfield. 

P: 03 975 4502 

Wishing all our customers a Merry 

Christmas & safe Happy New Year. 

Christmas Hours: Closed 1pm 24th 

December - reopen 5th 

January 2026 

Unlocking opportunities in 2026 

Partnership, purpose, and possibility 

– we’re better together. 

Close: 12pm, Friday, 19 December 

Reopen: 8am, 12 January 2026 

Unit 14, 8 Vernon Drive, Lincoln 

www.neovia.co.nz 

Wishing you an enjoyable Christmas 

and holiday break from the 

Zest4Travel Team. 

We are closed from 24 December, 

returning 5 January 2026. 

info@zest4travel.co.nz 

www.zest4travel.co.nz 

0800 937 841 

Wishing all our patients a happy and 

safe festive season. 

www.prebbletondental.net.nz 

info@prebbletondental.net.nz, 

ph 03 595 6400 

Wishing our clients and business 

associates a happy and safe festive 

season. 

The office will close on 23 December 

and reopen 13 January 2026 (or 

earlier by appointment). 

Phone 374 2547. 

“Merry Christmas” 

www.scorch.co.nz 

Wishing all our valued readers and 

clients a safe and happy 

holiday season. 

Closed 19th December 2025, 

reopen Wed 7th January 2026 

Wishing all readers & customers a safe & happy holiday season



We wish you a 

from the following businesses 

A huge thank you for your 

support in 2025. 

We will be closed from 4pm 

on Friday 19th December 

2025 and will reopen Monday 

5th January 2026 at 10am. 

Wishing you all a fun, safe 

and relaxing Christmas 

and New Year. 

Safe holidays 

from our team to yours! 

Our offices will close on 

24 December and reopen on 

7 January 2026. 

Phone 03 929 0306 

Email rolleston@pb.co.nz 

Rentals 0800 472 7368 

LINCOLN 

Simon, Marie, Ian and the team from 

Challenge Lincoln wish you all a 

happy and safe Christmas 

67 Gerald Street, Lincoln 

Phone: 03 325 2120 

www.challenge.net.nz 

Rolleston Square wishes 

everyone a Merry Christmas 

& Happy New Year. 

Rolleston Drive/ Masefield Drive 

www.rollestonsquare.co.nz 

Thank you for 

your support in 2025 

Wishing everyone a safe and 

happy holiday season. 

www.hunterglass.co.nz 

Wishing our clients and 

community a happy and joyous 

festive season. 

Our Rolleston office will close 

from Tues 23 Dec, reopening 

Wed 7 Jan 2026. 

www.parryfield.com 

03 348 8480 

Meri Kirihimete and Merry 

Christmas! We wish all our 

learners and whānau a great 

break and look forward to 

welcoming you in 2026. 

Thank you to all our valued clients for 

their support during 2025. We wish 

you all a safe and happy Christmas! 

Our office will close on 

Tues 23rd Dec & re-open 

on Tues 6th Jan. 

www.lanilaw.co.nz 

Wishing everyone a safe and 

happy Holidays Season from the 

team at Swimart. 

We will be open normal 

business days & hours, 

closed 25 & 26 Dec 

& 1st & 2nd Jan 

Happy holidays from 

the Mainscape family! 

HOLIDAY HOURS 

Closed only: 25 & 26 Dec, 1 & 2 Jan. 

22 Dec – 5 Jan: Hours vary. 

Check online or call ahead. 

www.mainscape 

gardensupplies.co.nz 

Thanks for all your support in 2025. 

Intelligro are open throughout 

the Holiday period for your 

gardening & landscape needs 

– see our website for 

trading hours 

Merry Christmas and Happy 

New Year from The Outdoor Space. 

Phone: 03 347 4422 or 021 542 402 

Email: 

Aaron@theoutdoorspace.co.nz 

www.theoutdoorspace.co.nz 

We wish all our clients a safe & 

happy holiday season, and look 

forward to seeing you all in 2026 

clean@theneatfreaks.co.nz 

022 302 2446 

Wishing all readers & customers a safe & happy holiday season



Selwyn’s Local Government NZ 

membership up for debate 

BYJONATHAN LEASK 

Selwyn could be the next 

council to quit national 

advocacy body Local 

Government NZ, as it plans 

to debate its membership in 

January. 

The district is home to outgoing 

LGNZ president Sam 

Broughton, who lost the mayoralty 

in October after three terms 

in the job. Broughton leaves the 

LGNZ role this month. 

First-term councillor 

Samuel 

Wilshire said 

Selwyn needed to 

see the worth of 

LGNZ membership 

and what it 

delivers for the 

district. 

“What do we 

gain from it?” he 

said. 

LGNZ is a 

Samuel 

Wilshire 

membership body for councils 

in New Zealand, and Selwyn’s 

annual membership fee is 

$61,710. 

Western Bay of Plenty District 

Council, Christchurch, Auckland, 

West Coast Regional and 

Kaipara District councils have 

all left. 

During the election campaign, 

Wilshire stated a desire to discuss 

leaving LGNZ “as they don’t 

represent affordability, value 

for money, or representation of 

our community’s wishes”. 

Wilshire had also aired caution 

on the membership of the 

Canterbury Mayoral Forum and 

the potential spending strings 

attached to it. 

Mayor Lydia Gliddon said 

council memberships, including 

LGNZ, would be reviewed 

as part of the upcoming annual 

plan process. 

“Councillors have asked good 

questions about the benefits 

these memberships deliver, and 

that’s exactly the right conversation 

to have when making 

funding decisions,” she said. 

“We’ll be having a discussion 

early next year about how these 

forums work for us, what outcomes 

they achieve, and which 

elements of their proposed work 

programmes council should 

commit to through the annual 

plan.” 

Gliddon won the mayoralty in 

a landslide victory on a promise 

to reduce the district’s doubledigit 

rate rises. 

The need for the LGNZ discussion 

was highlighted at last 

week’s council meeting, when 

some councillors were hesitant 

to agree to the Canterbury Local 

Authorities’ Triennial Agreement, 

the council’s membership 

of the Canterbury Mayoral 

Forum. 

Gliddon said the agreement 

was a statutory requirement 

and the council had no obligation 

to agree to the mayoral 

forum’s proposed workplan and 

associated cost. 

Selwyn pays $6741 of the total 

regional forum levy of $63,000 

to cover operational expenses of 

the forum. 

The Local Government Act 

requires all local authorities 

within a regional council area to 

enter into a triennial agreement 

by March 1 following each triennial 

local government election. 

Under proposed local government 

reforms, the country’s 

11 regional councils will be 

replaced by 11 combined territories 

boards (CTBs) with mayors 

of city and district councils taking 

over the duty of mayors. 

Regional functions will fall 

to the mayors, with the boards 

having two years, from when 

the legislation passes, to develop 

a regional re-organisation plan, 

which will need to be approved 

by the Local Government 

Minister. 

Gliddon said that suggested 

the Canterbury Mayoral 

Forum will be the platform for 

regional reorganisation, and 

Selwyn needs to be part of those 

discussions. 

That did not stop a debate on 

what the council was signing up 

for. 

Councillors eventually 

voted to ratify the Triennial 

Agreement, with Cr Rhys 

Laraman voting against it. 

• Leask is a Local Democracy 

Reporter, co-funded by RNZ and 

NZ On Air. 

Foodbanks boosted by collections 

The district’s foodbanks have received a welcome pre-Christmas boost. Lincoln’s 

Golden Oldies collected about 300 cans of food for Greenpark Foodbank at its 

Wednesday night touch rugby. Golden Oldies committee member Landon Rurehe 

(above right) said it was great to see many players and attendees donating cans 

or cash, which was converted into cans. Greenpark Foodbank operator Carol 

Rooks (left) said the service distributes about 26 boxes of food fortnightly 

across Selwyn and parts of Banks Peninsula, and any extra donation helps. “We 

rely really heavily on the community,” she said. If you want to donate the the 

foodbank, call Carol on 027 621 5696. Meanwhile, volunteer fire brigades hit the 

streets with their sirens blaring to drum up support for the Darfield Food Bank. 

Sheffield, Springfield (below), Darfield and Kirwee brigades all were out and 

about in their respective townships collecting much-needed donations. Darfield 

Foodbank operator Rose Craven was still counting the donations on Monday, 

but said the cans alone would keep the food bank stocked for about six months. 

Craven said it supplies food to about 60 families. 

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LETTERS 

Dismay over digital billboard decision 

The Selwyn District Council’s 

decision to approve a 9m x 3m 

digital billboard beside one of 

the busiest pedestrian crossings 

in Prebbleton is nothing short 

of reckless. 

This crossing already splits the 

town in two and is notorious for 

near misses involving children 

and families. Residents have 

repeatedly raised concerns, yet 

the council has failed to act. 

Earlier this year, we ran a 

petition with over 900 signatures 

collected – representing 

more than 20% of our town’s 

population – calling for a pedestrian-activated 

crossing with 

traffic lights. That was a clear 

mandate from the community. 

The council’s response? 

Silence. The only “solution” 

offered was a splash of red 

paint, which has done nothing 

to stop the near misses that 

continue to occur. 

Now, instead of addressing 

the danger, the council has 

approved a massive digital 

distraction right beside 

the crossing. This decision 

puts profit ahead of people, 

and it will make an already 

dangerous situation worse. It is 

indefensible. 

Beyond safety, the billboard 

is an eyesore. It clashes with 

the village’s rural character and 

undermines the very identity of 

our community. Residents asked 

for protection, not commercial 

clutter. 

What is urgently needed is a 

robust and independent safety 

assessment of the crossing, 

followed by an appropriate, 

data-driven solution. The 

evidence already points to the 

need for a pedestrian-activated 

crossing with traffic lights. Our 

community has spoken loudly 

and clearly. 

If this council wants to prove 

it is different from the last, 

ousted for failing to listen, 

it must act now. Safety and 

community wellbeing are 

non-negotiable. 

– Dave Adams 

The proposed installation of a 

9m x 3m digital billboard in the 

heart of Prebbleton is a disgrace 

and shows a complete disregard 

for pedestrian safety. 

Council continuing to make 

consents like this non-notifiable 

is an insult to this community. 

There is not one person in 

Prebbleton that would consider 

The council’s decision to approve a digital billboard for this site in Prebbleton has been branded “reckless” and “a disgrace” 

by readers. 

PHOTO: SELWYN DISTRICT COUNCIL 

this development as having a 

less than minor impact. 

Traffic assessments need to 

be performed independently in 

respect of consent applications. 

– Bevan Sutherland 

Prebbleton 

Parking 

I was appalled to see comments, 

weeks ago, attributed 

to deputy mayor Big Red Shefford 

which seemed to imply 

that by-law controls on berm 

parking should be applied more 

‘pragmatically’. 

It seems Big Red believes 

he was primarily elected to 

council to restore the old order 

where sporting event attendees 

were allowed to park on, and 

vandalise berms, which are not 

maintained by council, they 

are maintained by the adjacent 

landowners. 

He would see the return of 

the idiots who blatantly parked 

on the landscaping mounds 

beside the entrance to the 

Selwyn Sports Centre. 

It would seem that he thinks 

there is something desirable 

about the repeated destruction 

of the berm near the entrance 

to Bellbird Pl. 

In the bad old days, the council, 

which refused to assist in 

the repair of the council berm 

outside my house, opposite the 

rugby and soccer fields, used to 

permit and even enable berm 

parking on the pretext that 

Rolleston “used to be rural”. 

I was told that if I wanted 

a berm vandal prosecuted, I 

would have to photograph the 

piece of berm before the vandal 

parked there, the vehicle 

parked on that piece of berm, 

and the berm after they left. 

My berm is about 40m long. 

It holds over 10 vandalising 

vehicles, some parked sideby-side, 

obstructing both the 

road and footpath. Well, it 

used to, until the council acted 

responsibly. 

I thought Big Red was just 

having a meaningless spray 

(his idol, Trump, knows that all 

publicity is good publicity). 

Unfortunately Mayor Lydia 

Gliddon supports Big Red's 

position on page 4 of the 

December 10 issue of Selwyn 

Times. This will increase the 

creep of illegal parking. 

Berm destruction is not a 

victimless crime. Within the last 

week I saw two vehicles parked 

on the berm on the north 

side of Oaktree Ln, on Goulds 

Rd. I also saw a very brightly 

signwritten van advertising 

bricks. It was parked on the 

Rolleston College corner. That 

is a prime advertising site (the 

van was parked on an angle to 

enhance its visibility from all of 

the intersecting roads). 

If our civic leaders want 

to be ‘pragmatic’, how about 

allocating half the money 

collected from the vandal's fine 

to the landowner, who has to 

maintain the affected berm. 

In my case, I filled the wheel 

tracks with my soil, sowed my 

grass seed and paid excess 

water rates to revive the 

council berm. 

– John Atkinson (abridged) 

Urban sprawl 

In my view, the time has sadly 

come when New Zealand has to 

accept the fact that our house 

on a grassed section in suburbia 

has gone. 

For cities to expand there 

must be a change of thinking 

and building up, like every 

other country, must be 

considered the norm. 

Three or four storeys high, 

effective landscaping, and sun 

placement, is all part of good 

design. 

We can no longer use our 

productive land for housing. 

There actually isn’t a lot of 

it. We have lots of land but 

very little left now for food 

production. 

It would surely be to a 

council's benefit to provide 

infrastructure in a smaller area 

than in a large suburban area. 

– Shona Mardle 

Stolen ram Bo 

Regarding the recent article 

on the stolen pet, I can only 

describe those apologies for 

the human race who accepted 

payment for returning 

the stolen sheep as proper 

baahstards. 

I hope the police prosecute 

them for receiving payment 

for stolen property and if they 

don’t name where the sheep 

was held captive they should 

be prosecuted for obstructing 

justice. 

Everyone’s pets are at risk 

from low life humans extracting 

rewards from distressed pet 

owners. An example has to be 

made. Name and shame them. 

If stealing sheep was a matter 

of hunger then I understand. 

Meals are free when they spend 

time in prison. 

– Brian Pegler 

Dunsandel 

We want to hear your views on the 

issues affecting life 

in Selwyn 

Send emails to: 

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Letters may be edited or rejected at 

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Selwyn Times, December 17, 2025 | 17 

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WHATS ON 

What’s On 

in Selwyn 

Christmas Tree Wonderland 

and Community Party 

Today until Friday 5-8pm 

565 Springston Rolleston Rd 

Come and be transported into 

a magical winter wonderland 

with Christmas tree displays 

at the Rolleston Hope Op Shop. 

After winding your way through 

the winter wonderland enjoy 

a complimentary hot drink, 

baking, gingerbread decorating 

and professional live musical 

entertainment. Friday will also 

feature craft stalls, food carts, 

pony rides, face painting and 

balloon twisting. Gold coin 

donation entry. 

Exhibition - Members Show 

Now until January 11 

Down By The Liffey Gallery, 1 

James St, Lincoln 

A wonderful range of artworks 

and sculptures created by the 

members of the Down by the 

Liffey Gallery. This show has a 

wonderful assortment of styles, 

colour and subject matter - 

come explore the world of art. 

Opening hours are Thursday 

11.30am to 2.30pm Friday, 

Saturday and Sunday 10.00am to 

4.00pm. 

 

Christmas Storytime with 

Sarina Dickson 

Saturday 10.30-11am 

Te Ara Ātea 

Join Christchurch author 

Sarina Dickson to explore the 

magic of a kiwi Christmas as 

she shares her stories about 

elves, dragons, fairies, gnomes 

and Santa. Bookings required: 

selwynlibraries.co.nz/events 

Selwyn Community Choir 

Saturday 11.15am-noon at Te Ara Ātea 

Take some time out in the busy lead-up to Christmas to relax and enjoy the voices of the Selwyn Community Choir. They will 

perform a mix of songs from various genres, along with some well-loved Christmas favourites to get you in the festive spirit. 

Life Jacket Hire 

Saturday and Sunday 9am-1pm 

Selwyn Aquatic Centre 

Heading to the water this 

summer? Hire lifejackets of all 

sizes available for the summer. 

Come along and get fitted. Threeweek 

hire: $10 per lifejacket 

(return January 12-16) 

six-week hire: $15 per lifejacket 

(return February 2-6). 

Local History Drop-in 

Thursday 10am-noon 

Leeston Library 

Needing help with finding 

Selwyn heritage information and 

resources? Drop in and see the 

heritage team who can assist you 

with research and digitisation 

advice and support, advice on 

caring for your photographs, 

papers and other taonga at 

home, oral history, and using our 

scanners to copy your old photos. 

All ages welcome. Free. Drop-in. 

Adults’ Book Club 

Saturday 10-11am 

Leeston Library 

Book discussion groups are a 

fun and popular way to expand 

your reading subjects, meet 

people in your area and share 

your thoughts and ideas about 

reading. Free. Drop-in. 

Board Games 

Saturday 11am-1pm 

Lincoln Library 

Love board games? Head along to 

Lincoln Library to play a variety 

of exciting games. Suitable for 

those new to board games, as 

well as regular players. Free. 

Bookings not required. 

Storywalk: Summer Moa Hunt 

Wednesday January 7, 11am–2pm 

Arthur’s Pass Community Centre 

Join Selwyn Libraries for a 

special outdoor reading of the 

book We’re Going on a Moa Hunt. 

A great chance to get out and 

about to explore. The mobile 

library vehicle will be on-site 

too – so bring a picnic, check out 

all the great resources we have 

on board, and make a day of it. 

Drop-in. 

Snorkeling Have-A-Go 

Selwyn Aquatic Centre: January 

8, 10am-3pm 

Darfield Pool: January 16, 

1.30-3.45pm 

Southbridge Pool: January 19, 

1.30–3.45pm 

Come and learn to snorkel with 

swim school these holidays! 

Get fitted and learn the basics 

of using a snorkel and flipper, 

search for items underwater 

and swim through obstacles. 

Suitable for ages 8-13 who 

are competent swimmers. $8 

per person. All equipment 

provided, book a session at 

events.humantix.com 

Court hire – 50% off 

January 5-31 

Selwyn Sports Centre 

We’re slashing the cost of a full 

court hire in half to get you 

back into the swing of things 

for 2026. Ideal for pre-season 

training or just general familyfriendly 

fun, make sure to take 

advantage of this awesome 

deal for your to enjoy the 

sport of choice. Conditions 

apply. Minimum booking of 

one hour with only one sport 

allowed per court, subject to 

court availability. Only includes 

basketball, futsal, korfball, 

netball, pickleball, tennis, 

volleyball, badminton. Costs 

start from $22.15 per hour. 

Sending booking enquiries to 

sports.centre@selwyn.govt.nz 

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Selwyn Times, December 17, 2025 | 23


SPORT 

Greenkeeper’s work in national spotlight 

BY SAM COUGHLAN 

Alan Jones has always kept a 

perfectly manicured lawn at 

home, and now the bowling 

green he lovingly maintains will 

host New Zealand’s top players. 

Jones, 79, is in his 56th season 

as a Leeston Bowling Club member 

and three years ago took on 

the role of greenkeeper. 

“The other greenkeeper got 

sick, so I stepped in and helped 

the club out to keep it running,” 

he said. 

On average he spends 15 

hours a week mowing, watering, 

weeding and spraying. 

Next month, Leeston will be 

one of 15 Canterbury clubs hosting 

matches for the national 

singles and pairs championship 

for the first time in 25 years – 

thanks to Jones’ hard work. 

Representatives from Bowls 

New Zealand inspected the 

green two weeks ago before the 

club received confirmation of 

its involvement on December 7. 

“I thought I couldn’t get it any 

better than what it is now. I got 

an email (last) Sunday night, 

they’ve given us four days (January 

2-3 and 8-9),” Jones said. 

“I was very happy about it, 

my aim was to try and get the 

green up to the standard for the 

nationals and I achieved that. 

The members are so excited, it 

just makes me so happy.” 

He does not have far to go 

to keep an eye on the greens. 

Alan Jones’ efforts maintaining Leeston’s bowling green will be on display when the club hosts four days of action during next 

month’s national singles and pairs championships. 

PHOTO: GEOFF SLOAN 

For the past 32 years, Jones has 

lived in the house next door 

and even put in a gate so he can 

walk straight across to work. 

“It is very handy, I just wander 

through and keep an eye on 

things,” he said. 

Jones learned much of his craft 

from Riccarton Racecourse club 

greenkeeper Terry Rossiter, who 

was a huge support when he 

started. 

“If we didn’t have him, I don't 

know what I’d have done. He has 

been a big help to me with setting 

my mowers up and advising 

me what to do with sprays,” he 

said. 

Leeston’s high-quality surface 

has not gone unnoticed – Jones 

received several compliments 

when the club hosted the Canterbury 

men’s fours post-section 

play two weeks ago. 

“One guy said to me when he 

was leaving, ‘we’ll try and get 

all the (Canterbury) stuff here, 

because I’d sooner play here than 

anyone else’. 

“When guys leave saying that, 

that’s pretty good,” he said. 

Jones’ lawn at home is also 

immaculate, but the stakes are 

higher at the bowling club. 

“I had to sit certificates to get 

my spraying licence – you don’t 

"My aim was to try 

and get the green up 

to the standard for the 

nationals and I achieved 

that. The members are 

so excited, it just makes 

me so happy.” 

Alan Jones 

put the wrong spray on, otherwise 

you end up with a dead green. 

You’d be popular then,” he joked. 

Observing and understanding 

the green is the key to keeping it 

in top shape, Jones said. 

“You know when to mow it and 

make sure it gets enough water. 

On hot days you give it a bit more 

water than other days and that 

sort of thing. 

“You’ve got to walk over it 

every day, make sure there are no 

diseases. If weeds grow overnight 

you hook them out, and just 

general maintenance, rolling and 

mowing and all that sort of stuff.” 

Maintaining the green is a lot of 

work, but the results are worth it 

for the club stalwart. 

“You work through the winter 

and come spring, the more 

attention you give (the green), the 

better it will be,” Jones said. 

The Bowls NZ national singles 

and pairs championship runs 

from January 2-9. 

Young talent blooms 

as combined side 

shines in first season 


The future looks bright for 

cricket in Selwyn after the 

first combined schools team 

impressed in their debut season 

in the Christchurch Metro A 

grade. 

Selwyn/Banks Peninsula 

Youth Cricket was started by 

Weedons club chair Paul Rugg 

after his son Austin, and 

many of his friends, had 

no year 9 team when they 

started at Lincoln High 

School. 

“There were five of 

those boys who were all 

in the country rep team 

that went up to Blenheim, 

who were going to Lincoln 

High,” Rugg said. 

“I was like, ‘we've got to 

make a team, they're all 

too good to not be playing’.” 

Rather than see them having 

to play in Lincoln’s year 10 team 

– a big challenge - Rugg set out 

to form a combined Selwyn and 

Banks Peninsula schools’ team. 

After approaching Rolleston 

College, Darfield High and Ellesmere 

College, he had enough 

players to create two squads. 

The A team enjoyed a standout 

first season, finishing third 

in the top grade for year 9 

teams, while the B team placed 

fifth in their competition. 

With year 10 teams being 

added next year, Rugg hopes to 

Paul Rugg 

see the club field sides across 

all age groups, right through 

secondary school. 

“We’re trying to build a pathway 

all the way through to first 

XI, that’s the really important 

thing. 

“The key is to try and get 

these boys as close to first XI 

cricket in 2029 when they’re 

year 13, but you kind of have to 

win your way through. 

“We'll have a good 

crack at the colts grade 

(year 10) next year, it's 

looking like we've picked 

up a couple of other boys 

who live locally, but were 

playing in other clubs, so 

that will strengthen us.” 

The end goal is for 

players to remain in the 

district through their 

school years, and then 

when they leave school, they 

return to play at their junior 

clubs. 

"The clubs have been awesome, 

we've played at Weedons, 

we've played at Tai Tapu, we've 

played at Darfield, we've played 

at Lincoln, so we've played on 

grass at all those venues, and 

the clubs have been really awesome 

and supportive of the 

concept as well.” 

Next year’s competition starts 

again in February. Rugg said it 

was important the boys were 

playing against others their 

own age. 

Fast bowler Kian McConachy was the top wicket-taker in the year 9 A grade, with 

22 wickets this season. PHOTO: DAVID TIPPETT 

“The best kids are getting 

cricket against the fastest bowlers 

in Canterbury, the best spinners, 

and the best batsmen, and then 

the B guys are playing at the 

same level that their skill is at. 

“The goal is for the A team to 

win the colts grade, but there's a 

couple of pretty decent teams in 

the city who we’re going to have 

to beat. 

“I think just keep making sure 

that they enjoy their cricket and 

that they want to come back 

the following year, potentially 

we have got a team that could 

threaten the colts title, but there 

is a bit of work we need to do 

before then.” 

Rugg said he was looking 

forward to what was to come. 

“Coaching 14-year-old boys, 

there's a few ups and downs. 

There are other things they like to 

get into like TikTok, but they are 

a great bunch of kids and they do 

really enjoy it, I think they’ve had 

a great season.” 

Weedons set 

pace heading 

into festive 

season break 


Two wins from their opening two 

T20 matches have put Weedons 

out in front as the competition 

breaks for Christmas. 

On Friday, Weedons skittled 

Ohoka for 65, and chased down 

the target with four wickets left. 

They followed that with a 

commanding 53-run win over 

Darfield on Saturday, built 

around big scores from Harry 

Chamberlain (97) and Akhil Pant 

(71), along with three wickets 

from leg-spinner William Jull. 

Darfield had earlier scraped 

past Peninsula-Harbour in their 

opening match in the Southern 

pool, chasing down 71 with just 

one ball to spare on Friday. Jordy 

Frew top-scored with 38. 

Peninsula-Harbour will play 

Ohoka on January 14 before the 

final group games on January 23. 

The Country competition now 

breaks until January 10. 

Weedons travel to Cheviot, 

while Darfield hosts Peninsula- 

Harbour in the 10th round of 

one-day matches. 

POINTS 

Country Premier T20 South pool 

Weedons 8, Darfield 4, Peninsula- 

Harbour 0, Ohoka 0 

Country Premier one-day 

Weedons 30, Pleasant Point 28, 

Darfield 27, Peninsula-Harbour 22, 

Ohoka 21, Cheviot 16, Sefton 14, 

Oxford 6, Kaiapoi 2


Selwyn Times, December 17, 2025 | 25


FEATURE 

Summer Fun 

Your guide to what’s 

happening in Selwyn 

over the Summer Break 

Sizzling Summer summer Fun activities 

on the way for Selwyn 

Get your skates on, fly your kite, chill 

in the pool or listen to great music – the 

sun’s out and there’s a full calendar of 

things to enjoy over Summer in Selwyn. 

With over 30 whānau-friendly events 

and activities throughout January and 

February, there’s truly something for 

everyone! 

Favourite events are back. Join the 

thousands flying kites at Foster Park on 

Kite Day, listen to the sounds of great 

music from local performers at Music in 

the Park, and bring your teddies to the 

ever-popular Teddy Bears’ Picnic. And 

the best thing? They’re all free to attend. 

For those looking to get active, you 

can get your skates on for a roller disco, 

dive into the popular annual pool parties, 

ride and slide on your skateboard, 

and try the range of sports at the Selwyn 

Sports Centre. There’s also heaps 

to explore around the district, whether 

that’s hunting a moa on a Storywalk 

hosted by library team members, or visiting 

playgrounds across the district to 

solve the playground pursuit puzzle. 

For those looking to kick back and 

chill, there’s art and craft workshops, 

music, picnic in the park, or exploring 

a whole new world with the Selwyn 

Libraries Summer Reading Challenge. 

Denise Kidd, Selwyn District Council’s 

Executive Director of Community 

Services and Facilities, says: “Selwyn is 

growing, and with new residents arriving, 

many haven’t yet had the chance 

to meet others or find their way around 

the district. Offering a broad range of 

free events helps create those connections 

and build a sense of belonging. 

While Council is limited in the number 

and types of events we can deliver 

directly, we can lean into the services, 

pools, libraries, sports centres and 

reserves we manage, to create experiences 

that have a real, positive impact 

for locals. We couldn’t put on some 

of these events without our sponsors 

such as Woolworths and Arbor Green, 

so a big thank you to them.” 

For a full list of events, pick up 

the latest ‘Kā Kaupapa o Waikirikiri 

What’s On in Selwyn’ guide from any 

Council facility, or check out selwyn. 

govt.nz/summerinselwyn 

Brought to you by Selwyn District 

Council and proudly sponsored by Woolworths 

and Arbor Green 

Summer of fun in Selwyn 

The Trots at the Mot 

29th December, Motukarara Raceway, 

with the first race at midday. 

A day at the races with harness racing 

on a grass track and plenty of fun activities 

for all the family. General admission 

$10 (cash only) or reserve a gazebo spot. 

Playground Scavenger Hunt 

Take your family on a playground 

scavenger hunt throughout Selwyn, 

using town maps to discover playgrounds 

across the district. Visit your 

local library or community centre to 

collect a map, or print a copy online, 

then follow the clues to find the hidden 

letters around the playground. 

Storywalk: Summer Moa Hunt 

7th January, 11am–2pm Arthur’s 

Pass Community Centre 

8th January, 10am–2pm Kakaha 

Park, Prebbleton. 

14th January, 10am–2pm Springfield 

Tawera Hall 

15th January, 10am–2pm Broadfield 

Community Hall 

21st January, 10am–2pm Lake Coleridge 


22nd January, 10am–2pm Glentunnel 

Community Centre 

23rd January, 10am–2pm Castle Hill 


Special outdoor reading of the book 

“We’re Going on a Moa Hunt”. Bring 

a picnic, enjoy the reading and check 

out the resources on board the mobile 

library vehicle. 

Scuba Have-A-Go 

14th January, 2.30–6pm Southbridge 

Pool 

21st January, 10.30am–3pm Selwyn 

Aquatic Centre 

23rd January, 2.30–6pm Darfield Pool 

Be guided by Dive HQ through the 

fundamentals of scuba diving in a onehour 

introductory session for competent 

swimmers. 

Skate ‘n’ Splash 

13 January, from 12.30pm, Selwyn 

Sports Centre and Selwyn Aquatic Centre. 

Have fun roller skating under disco 

lights, then cool off with pool activities 

and free ice blocks. 

Teddy Bears’ Picnic 

16th January, 10.30am–1.30pm, 

Brookside Park, Rolleston. Postponement 

date: 23 January. 

Treat yourself and teddy to an exciting 

picnic in the park and take part in the 

grand finale Teddy Bear Parade. Bring a 

packed lunch and reusable coffee mug 

and be entertained, or have some fun 

with crazy bikes, the farmyard, and play 

activities. 

Music in the Park 

11th January, 2–4pm, Rolleston Town 

Centre 

1st February, 2–4pm Leeston Park 

22 February, 2–4pm Darfield Reserve 

Be treated to live music and local 

performers while you sit down to your 

own picnic, or enjoy local food and 

beverages.


FEATURE Selwyn Times, December 17, 2025 | 27 

Summer Fun 

On your bike in Selwyn 

If you’re looking for an adventure on 

two wheels, the Selwyn region offers a 

fantastic choice of cycling options for all 

skill levels. From scenic rail trails that 

wind through stunning landscapes to 

peaceful forest parks perfect for families, 

there’s something for everyone. Whether 

you’re a casual rider or an experienced 

mountain biker, you’ll find trails that suit 

your pace and preference. 

Little River Rail Trail 

The Christchurch to Little River Rail 

Trail is a cycleway and walkway suitable 

for all abilities, following the route of an 

old 19th-century railway line. The trail is 

45km one-way, split into six sections: 

Hornby–Prebbleton, 20 minutes, 4km 

Prebbleton–Lincoln, 35 minutes, 7km 

Lincoln–Ahuriri Reserve, 50 mins, 10km 

Ahuriri Reserve–Motukarara, 25 mins, 4km 

Motukarara–Birdlings Flat, 70 mins, 13km 

Birdlings Flat–Little River, 40 mins, 7km 

McHughs Forest Park 

Visit McHugh’s Forest Park, a 43-hectare 

public recreation reserve in 

Darfield. Start at the car park on Horndon 

Street and enjoy various flat walking 

and beginner biking trails that wind 

through the forest. 

The Willows 

Another family-friendly area with 

beginner bike trails is the Willows. It is 

a recreational area near West Melton on 

the banks of the Waimakiriri River, found 

by following Thompsons Road to a car 

parking area. There is 

a flat, gravelled track 

shared for walking 

and biking, 

which is good for 

children to bike 

on. With many 

tracks running 

off it, you 

can go off-track 

towards the river. 

Reid’s Pit 

Close to Rolleston, 

with access off Weedons 

Road, is Reid’s 

Pit. It is a 4.1-hectare 

reserve area featuring 

four bike-only tracks 

that are suitable for children 

and all abilities. 

Rolleston to Lincoln 

Cycleway 

For those wanting to 

commute by bike between Rolleston and 

Lincoln or enjoy a leisurely family ride, 

there is a 9km one-way, off-road, sealed 

path that connects the townships. 

Craigieburn Forest Park 

For those with more mountain-biking 

experience, the Craigieburn Forest Park 

has a network of dual-purpose tracks, 

mostly graded as intermediate mountain-bike 

standard, in the Castle Hill 

Basin, popular for mountain biking and 

walking. 

Are you looking for a nurturing and 

engaging before and after-school care 

and holiday programme? KEA KIDS, a 

family-run service based at Rolleston 

Christian School, at 571 Springston 

Rolleston Road, will help your children 

thrive, develop new skills, and form lasting 

friendships. 

KEA KIDS offers convenient beforeand 

after-school care programmes that 

include a variety of enriching activities 

in a warm, family-style environment 

that fosters children’s curiosity, confidence, 

and independence. These 

activities feature creative arts and 

crafts, baking, interactive science 

projects, and outdoor play. They also 

provide homework assistance and afternoon 

snacks for the children. 

As an OSCAR-accredited provider with 

WINZ approval, eligible parents can 

access subsidies to help with costs. To 

further support parents, KEA KIDS also 

offers pickup and drop-off services for 

Clearview Primary School, Rolleston 

School Te Ahi Kaikōmako, and Springston 

School. 

School holidays can be a stressful time 

for busy parents, especially when it 

comes to keeping the kids entertained. 

The KEA KIDS holiday programmes take 

Your guide to what’s 

happening in Selwyn 

over the Summer Break 

Discover learning and fun 

at KEA KIDS Rolleston 

the hassle out of the holidays. With a 

variety of exciting activities and outings 

for children aged 5 to 13, they will 

have the opportunity to learn, play, and 

explore in a safe environment. 

Schedule a visit today and discover 

why KEA KIDS, Rolleston, has 

received numerous 5-star Google 

reviews and why local families enjoy 

being a part of KEA KIDS. For more 

information, visit https://keakids.net/ 

or call 022 511 8613. 

RESTAURANT & CAFÉ 

‘Famous for our roasts!’ 

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118 Racecourse Rd, Sockburn, 

Christchurch. Ph 03 342 7150 

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@ Rolleston 

Christian School 

OSCAR APPROVED 

WINZ SUBSIDY AVAILABLE 

AFTERNOON SNACK PROVIDED 

PICKUP/DROP OFF SERVICE 

PROVIDED 

www.keakids.net 

10% 

Sibling 

Discount 

Available


FEATURE 

HOME PROFESSIONALS 

In a twitter about birds 

Birdsong is one of the joys of summer, 

but while it sounds charming, if birds 

are nesting in your roof and guttering 

you’re probably seeing their mess on 

your walls, windows and car, freshly 

renewed most days. 

It’s important to realise there will also 

be consequences you can’t see. 

If your spouting is blocked by the 

results of bird activity, you will see 

it overflowing. What you can’t see 

is the back of the spouting, where it 

is attached to the bargeboard. The 

spouting is lower at the back, so 

damage will also be happening here. 

When spouting and downpipes become 

blocked, flooding into the eaves and 

soffit (overhanging section of roof), and 

from there, into the house, is a common 

– and costly – consequence. 

Installing Gumleaf Gutter Guard 

offers immediate protection against 

birds nesting in your roof. It has a lesser 

known characteristic – birds just don’t 

like standing on it! It feels flat and 

unnatural to them, unlike branches or 

the unprotected shapes of your roof and 

guttering. Since they don’t like to perch 

there, they won’t nest there – in fact they 

will leave your roof entirely alone and 

search for a more amenable location. 

Couple that with the multiple other 

benefits of gutter guards, which keep 

out everything from leaf litter to hail to 

snow and even rats, and you’ll see that 

having these guards installed is a huge 

benefit. Quite simply, they extend the 

life of the spouting to the life of the roof. 

Gumleaf Gutter Guard was developed 

in Australia more than 20 years ago, 

and has been providing a quality and 

effective solution in New Zealand 

for the last decade. Company owner 

Rohan Rudd offers great customer 

service and speedy turnaround. He 

is available Monday to Saturday to 

speak to customers who call, customers 

requesting a quote receive it within 

24 hours, and Rohan says he will “go 

anywhere to provide a quote”. Rohan 

is happy to install the guards, although 

the ease of the design is such that the 

installation is 100% DIY-friendly. 

Thanks to Gumleaf’s partnership with 

Alps Continuous Spouting, you can now 

access a coordinated design and install 

of any aspect of quality spouting and 

guttering, Gumleaf gutterguarding, 

fascia, downpipes and any other 

weather protection that you may need. 

So contact Gumleaf Gutter Guard 

today, not only to protect your spouting, 

eaves and house, but to keep those pesky 

birds away. 

For more information and handy 

resources, see www.gumleaf.co.nz. 

To discuss your requirements, phone 

Rohan on 0800 486 532 or email 

rohan@gumleaf.co.nz. 

STOP BIRDS 

Leaves, snow, hail & vermin from 

blocking & damaging your spouting 

Quality materials: BHP Colorbond steel mesh with unique patented louvre 

will even keep out pine needles. Will not rust or sag with age or load. 

10 year warranty, range of colours. 

Proven in Australia & New Zealand over the last 15 years. 

FOR SAFE, PURE DRINKING WATER 

FROM YOUR ROOF. 

NOW AVAILABLE: STAINLESS STEEL MICO MESH 

Call Rohan anytime Mon-Sat for a 

no-obligation assessment & quote 

0800 486532 www.gumleaf.co.nz 

Turn sunshine 

into savings! 

Switch to solar and start enjoying 

lower power bills and a cleaner future! 

Contact us today: 

03 347 4016 

831 Jones Road, Rolleston 

The Right Fence at at the Right Price 

The Right Fence at the Right Price 

Roundwood 

Yarding Timber 

Netting 

The The Right Right Fence Fence at at the the Right Right Price Price 

Farm Posts 

Oregon Rails 

Rails Gallagher 

e Right Fence at the Right Price 

Deer Deer Fencing 

Oregon Gates 

undwood 

Yarding Timber 

Netting 

Strainrite Fencing 

Roundwood 

Yarding Timber Netting 

Post 

m Posts 

Roundwood 

Post and and Rail Rail Fencing 

Sheep Oregon Rails 

Yarding & Deer & Timber 

Deer Systems 

Netting 

Farm Posts 

Oregon Rails Gallagher Gallagher 

er Fencing 

Farm Posts 

Oregon Gates 

Oregon Rails Gallagher 

Deer Merry Fencing Christmas from the Oregon team! Gates Our Xmas Hours 

Strainrite Strainrite 2025-2026 

Fencing Fencing 

Strainrite Fencing 

YOUR YOUR LOCAL TIMBE R R M EM RCHANT 

E Visit Visit us via us us via our via our our 

Deer Fencing 

Oregon Gates 

New 

New 

O PEN 

O PEN 

Entrance Entrance on on on 167 

t and Rail Post Fencing and Rail Fencing Sheep & Sheep Deer & Deer Systems Systems 167 167 

Mon-Fri 

7.00am -- 5.00pm 167 Manion 167 Manion 

Post Thu Jan and 1 to Sun Rail Jan Fencing 

4: CLOSED; Mon Jan 5 to Sheep Fri Mon-Fri Jan 9: 8am 7.00am 

Deer - 3pm; - Sat 5.00pm Jan 10 Systems 

& Sun Jan Road 

Road 11: CLOSED 

Saturday 8.00am 8.00am - 12.00pm -- Normal hours resume from Monday January 12, 2026 

CYOUR O NC TACT: O N TACT: LOCAL JASON JASON PESTER 

TIMBE RCHANT 

YOUR LOCAL TIMBE R M E RCHANT 

Visit us via our 

P 03 P P 03 347 03 347 7465 7465 F 03 F F 03 347 03 347 7032 7032 jason@cthl.co.nz 167 167 MANION MANION ROAD, ROAD, WEEDONS 8441, 8441, CHRISTCHURCH 

LOCAL TIMBE R M E RCHANT 

Visit us via New our 

YOUR LOCAL TIMBE R M E RCHANT 

PEN 

Visit us via our Entrance on 

Visit Entrance us via New our on 

167 

O PEN 

New Manion Rd 

O PEN Mon-Fri 7.00am - 5.00pm 

Entrance 167 

167 

Manion New 

167 

O PEN 

Entrance on 167 Entrance Manion Road 

167 

Mon-Fri 7.00am - 5.00pm 

Mon-Fri 7.00am Saturday Mon-Fri - 5.00pm 8.00am 7.00am - 12.00pm 5.00pm 167 Manion 167 Manion Road 

Saturday 8.00am - 12.00pm Road Road 

C O N TACT: JASON PESTER 

Saturday 8.00am Saturday - 12.00pm 8.00am - 12.00pm 

P C03 347 7465 F 03 347 7032 jason@cthl.co.nz 167 MANION ROAD, WEEDONS 8441, CHRISTCHURCH 

T: JASON P C O 

03 PESTER 

O N N TACT: 

347 TACT: JASON 

7465 F JASON PESTER 

03 347 7032 PESTER jason@cthl.co.nz 167 MANION ROAD, WEEDONS 8441, CHRISTCHURCH 

P 03 347 7465 F 03 347 7032 jason@cthl.co.nz 167 MANION ROAD, WEEDONS 8441, CHRISTCHURCH 

65 F 03 347 7032 jason@cthl.co.nz 167 MANION ROAD, WEEDONS 8441, CHRISTCHURCH 

Mon Dec 22 & Tue Dec 23: 7am - 5pm; Wed Dec 24 to Sun Dec 28: CLOSED; Mon Dec 29 to Wed Dec 31: 8am - 3pm 

SOLAR SPECIALS 

Fully Installed Prices 

+ 

10 Panel Package 

$8,200 

www.solaralps.co.nz 

+ 

10 Panel 

5kwh Battery 

Package 

$14,595 

Terms & Conditions Apply 

+ 

10 Panel 

10kwh Battery 

Package 

$18,400 

Phone: 0800 ALPS NZ 

(0800 2577 69) or 021 033 2386 

Email: info@solaralps.co.nz




Here to help this holiday season 

Here’s how Southern Woods is on 

hand to help, not only with last minute 

Christmas gifts, but right through the 

holiday season. 

Shopping in store 

From iconic plants encapsulating 

kiwi Christmas, to quality gardening 

tools and stylish accessories, visit our 

purpose-built retail store and beautifully 

laid out grounds for inspiration and the 

perfect last minute gift. 

The outstanding Maungapiko is a 

Pōhutukawa / Southern Rata cross, 

with the stunning red flowers earning 

its reputation as New Zealand’s native 

Christmas tree. Or shop other plants that 

taste of summer, from feijoa to a full 

range of berries, poised for the pav! 

While you’re here, you’ll be tempted 

by a huge range of options for ground 

cover, hedging, bushes, grasses, and 

spots of colour. Millions of plants are 

grown on-site and looked after by a 

team of 50 dedicated staff. The planting 

selection also includes New Zealand 

natives, landscape shrubs, specialist 

forestry species, and plenty more. 

Digital gift cards 

If you can’t get to our store, no 

problem – we offer the digital Southern 

Woods Gift Card. You can purchase this 

for yourself or through the “Gift to a 

friend” option, in a range of convenient 

amounts from $25 to $500. The digital 

gift card is emailed instantly after 

purchase, taking those Christmas 

present deadline stresses away. What’s 

more, the gift card is redeemable for an 

impressive three years after purchase, 

both online and in store, making it a 

highly flexible and welcome gift. 

Open right through the holiday 

season 

Summer is the time for gardening, and 

we’re here for you – we only close on 

the core public holidays. Friendly staff 

are always on hand to help with great 

advice based on their many years in 

the business. We pride ourselves on our 

local and highly knowledgeable team – 

their advice can make all the difference 

to the success of your projects. 

The nursery reopens fully from 3 

January, and nationwide freight starts 

up again from 5 January. Delivery can be 

arranged across New Zealand and is a 

popular option for many customers. 

Selwyn homeowners are lucky to 

have virtually everything they need 

to beautify and extend their gardens 

right on their doorstep. Check out 

southernwoods.co.nz, call us on 0800 

800 352, or we’d love to welcome you 

to 1002 Robinsons Road, Rolleston: 

weekdays 8am–5pm, weekends 

9am–5pm. 

Thanks for 

growing with us. 

Wishing Selwyn a great summer 

break, and all the best for 2026. 

After a lush spring, summer is here. Since 1987, we’ve been 

growing quality plants for Selwyn and beyond. We’ll be open 

throughout the holidays (except statutory days). 

Thank you for supporting local, have a beautiful summer. 

- New Zealand Natives - Specimen Trees 

- Landscaping Plants - Ornamentals 

Visit our great plant centre - Open 7 days 

1002 Robinsons Road - Between Templeton & Rolleston 0800 800 352 southernwoods.nz 

GARAGE DOORS 

The Genuine 

Custom Made Garage 

Door Professionals 

0800 661 366 

info@custommade.co.nz 

Canterbury Ltd 

Under bench or whole House Chlorine 

Reduction Water Filter Solution 

If you want to reduce chlorine in your water we have a solution, be it 

under bench single tap or whole house. 

Whole house chlorine reduction makes more sense than just treating one 

tap in the kitchen. You only need to use one 20” large housing and a 20” 

carbon filter cartridge. 

What ever the issues is with your water we will have a solution that fits 

your requirement, so call into our shop at Pumps & Filters, 551 Halswell 

Junction Road and speak to our friendly team or call 03 4231925. 

551 Halswell Junction Road 

0800 GRUNDFOS / 0800 478 633 

Lagoon 

Pools 

03 349 2160 

0800 92 72 82 

Jason 021 649 944 

or Mike 021 560 044 

www.pumps-filters.co.nz 

Auckland • Christchurch • Wanaka 

www.custommade.co.nz


FEATURE 


Swimart’s top tips for a pool-side summer 

We made it! It’s the summer holidays, 

and time to enjoy life with friends and 

loved ones. If you’ll be relaxing in a home 

pool or spa, you’ll want the waters to 

be clean, healthy and welcoming – and 

Swimart is here to help. 

As New Zealand’s number one pool care 

company, Swimart is the trusted name 

in swimming pool accessories, repairs, 

maintenance, and expert advice. Here’s 

our top tips for summer. 

1) Summer heat, humidity and long 

hours of sunshine provide the perfect 

environment for algae to grow. If your 

pool water is taking a greenish tinge or has 

algael blooms across its bottom, we can 

help get it back to its best. Contact us for 

expert advice and quality products. 

2) Check your filters and pumps 

regularly – or even easier, book a 

regular or one-off service with us. 

3) Have you considered using a 

pool cover? This helps keep your 

pool water sparkling clean, extends 

the effectiveness of the chemicals, 

significantly reduces evaporation 

and improves heat retention. 

4) Check your pool fence, the 

whole poolside area for trip 

hazards, and that the child-proof 

gate and latch are in good working 

order. Move any furniture and pot 

plants away from the pool fence so 

kids can’t use them to climb into 

consultants will explain the results, advise 

the best course of action and recommend 

the right products. While you’re there, pick 

up a test kit to use at home. 

Be in to win! 

By making any instore purchase in 

December, you can win the Ultimate Pool 

Upgrade Prize, with over $30K worth of 

top-tier products. So come and visit us – 

we’ll be open right through the Christmas 

break, taking only the core public holidays, 

so we can keep Selwyn’s pools and spas 

sparkling and safe. 

Swimart Christchurch / 12 Hendrick 

Lane, Rolleston / 027 233 9191 / 

swimart.co.nz 

the pool area. 

5) Most importantly, always supervise 

children when they are in the pool area – 

especially if they haven’t swum since last 

summer. 

Water testing 

Did you know, you can bring a sample 

of your pool water into us at Rolleston for 

a comprehensive computerised test. This 

will show whether your pool needs its pH, 

calcium hardness and total alkalinity levels 

adjusted. One of our friendly Swimart 

Sharon CroftS 

LandSCape d e S ign 

• Consultations • Design Concepts • Planting Plans 

P. 329 6229 

M. 0274 311 558 

s-crofts@xtra.co.nz 

www.sharoncrofts.co.nz 

FOR ALL YOUR 

POOL & SPA NEEDS 

• FREE computerised instore 

water testing 

• Pool & Spa Chemicals 

• Pool equipment sales, 

service and repair 

• Regular or one-off pool 

servicing 

• Expert advice and 

installation 

• Finance options 

available 

Swimart Christchurch 

12 Hendrick Lane, Rolleston 7614 

Ph +64 27 233 9191 

Email christchurch@swimart.co.nz 

Builders, Plumbers, Painters, 

Interior Design, Soft Furnishings 

THIS SPACE is AVAILABLE 

Your trusted local Garden and Landscape 

supplier for over 45 years. 

Contact Lynette Mobile: 021 222 7831 

Promote your business in the Selwyn Home 

Professional feature monthly and receive 

3-4 FREE editorials to showcase your 

business over 12 months. 

Showcase your business to 46,000 readers 

weekly across the ENTIRE Selwyn District. 

CALL Lynette TODAY to discuss how she can 

help PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS to local Selwyn 

readers or to the entire Canterbury district. 

Email: Lynette.Evans@starmedia.kiwi 

Barks & Mulches 

Organic Compost 

Veggie Garden Mix 

Lawn Mixes 

Stones, Chips & 

Pebbles 

Fertilisers & Tools 

Raised Gardens & 

Vegepods 

Glasshouses 

Pavers 

Hoses & Sprinklers 

Kids Gardening 

Brick & Block Materials 

Hire Equipment 

Landscape Recycle 

Centre 

Home of the Original 

BioGro Certified 

Organic Compost - 

364 

Hire Equipment 

Available 7 days a week 

Trailer Hire and Delivery options 

are available for bagged and bulk 

products. 

Social Hub 

Join our Garden 

Club Group on 

Facebook 

Scan here 

Sales Hub 

Shop instore and 

online 7 days a 

week 

Scan here 

Find us 

Open 7 days a week 

www.intelligro.co.nz 

03 347 9012 

261 Manion Road, Rolleston




Simple holiday watering 

solutions for potted plants 

Heading off on a summer holiday is a 

kiwi tradition, but there’s no need to be 

worrying about your beloved pot plants 

while you’re away. There are several 

simple and cheap ways to keep them 

hydrated, even during the hottest weeks 

of the year. 

Away for a few days 

Re-positioning your plants could be 

enough to do the trick. Afterall, they don’t 

have to be where they look most fabulous 

when there’s no one home to see them. 

Water them well then move them out of 

direct sun, either to a cooler area of the 

garden, or to a bright but shaded room. 

A week away 

It’s surprisingly easy to create a 

self-watering system from items you 

probably already have. For waterwicking, 

find a shoelace, string, twine 

or wool that soaks up water, place a 

container of water next to your plant, 

then run the shoelace from the water to 

the plant, tucking the end into the soil. 

The string slowly draws water to the 

roots, providing a steady supply over 

several days. 

For larger pots, completely fill a plastic 

bottle with water. Pierce the lid with 

small holes, then flip it upside down 

and push the lid into the soil. Or you can 

insert a small section of irrigation hose 

into the lid, buy cheap nozzles for the 

purpose, or even 3D print them. As the 

soil dries, it naturally pulls water down 

from the bottle. 

Two weeks or more 

Set up a water tray arrangement. If 

you’ve got a bath, this is perfect, but 

smaller options include plastic crates, 

the laundry sink, trays, and roasting 

dishes. Line the base of the tray with a 

towel, which helps the soil absorb the 

moisture more consistently, and avoid 

root rot. Add a shallow layer of water, 

and put your potted plants on top – 

without their bases, so that the pots’ 

drainage holes are sitting on the wet 

towel. The moisture should rise gently 

without waterlogging the roots. 

Or reach out to a plant-loving friend 

or family member. They could take 

your pot plants while you’re away, or 

visit regularly to water them. If you 

don’t know someone suitable, ask 

for recommendations on community 

Facebook pages, or try the local 

Timebank. 

So with a bit of preparation and not 

much money, your plants can enjoy a 

stress-free summer as much as you do. 

When you return, you’ll be greeted not 

by wilted leaves, but by thriving plants 

that barely noticed your absence. 

For the Outdoor Space 

of your Dreams... 

Paving, Irrigation, Lawns, Planting, 

Fences, Pergolas, Water-features, 

Outdoor fires, Raised Vege beds, 

Decks, Artificial grass, Garden 

maintenance & more... 

Merry Christmas 

& a Happy New Year 

from The Outdoor Space 

Call Aaron & the team today! 

Phone: 03 347 4422 or 021 542 402 

Email: Aaron@theoutdoorspace.co.nz 

www.theoutdoorspace.co.nz 

PatIoS homes - outdoor start in areaS - Car PortS 

SHade SaILS CHRISTCHURCH - uMBreLLaS SOUTH - aLL WeatHer CaNoPIeS 

PATIos - ouTDoor AreAs - CAr PorTs 

Shadecraft is a 

locally owned company 

who specialise in 

shade and weather 

protection products to 

enhance your homes 

Shadecraft is a design locally owned and use company of who specialise in shade and weather 

protection products outdoor to enhance areas. your homes design and use of outdoor areas. 

Louvres – sHADe sAILs – uMBreLLAs – ALL WeATHer CANoPIes 

Brendan and his experienced team 

are dedicated to making 

your dream home 

a reality. Bringing 

award-winning 

Stroud Homes 

designs to the 

Christchurch South 

region. Brendan Ross is a 

seasoned builder with over 30 years 

of industry experience. 

We aim to build a home that is 

for your family, budget and section. 

ShadeCraft (SI) Ltd 

ShadeCraft (SI) Ltd • 0800 742 332 • Cell 0274 981 239 • www.shadecraft.co.nz 

0800 742332 • Cell 021 510879 • www.shadecraft.co.nz


FEATURE 

RURAL LIFE 

Rounding out another wild year for wool 

ISABELLE TERESA 

Regular readers may remember, 

in March, we took a whirlwind tour 

through how the year had started in the 

unexpectedly wild world of wool. Well, 

things stayed weird. Here’s how the year 

played out… 

Piles of drama 

The dramatic coup at Bremworth, 

in April, established a new Chair and 

Board... and a CEO called Woolford. In 

good news, there’s real progress towards 

rebuilding the Napier production 

plant, damaged by Cyclone Gabrielle. 

In more confusing news, in May, the 

company abandoned its brand-defining 

wool-only policy by announcing the 

return of synthetic carpets. Then in 

October we heard of the intended 

takeover by multinational Mohawk 

Industries. Hmmm. If there’s one thing 

the Mainland public loves, it’s asset 

sales and sending its Anchor products 

overseas. Could this prove a [font]error? 

This little sheepie went to market 

Wool is the new black. Well, 

Norsewear hopes so. After its toe-tal 

success in securing the NZDF socks 

contract in May, this kiwi company went 

viral in July for its open letter to NZ 

Rugby, proffering woollen beanies to 

keep All Blacks and supporters “cosy”. 

Innovative products in the headlines 

this year included wool acoustic 

panels, wool bandaging for horses, 

and NZ-woollen tennis balls at the US 

Open. In November, crowds flocked 

back to the relaunched Canterbury 

A&P Show, which was not only 

“Royal”, but featured the massive new 

highlight, “Wool Zone”. And the public 

sector caught up. Following its 2024 

high profile procurement debacle, 

the suitably chastened Kainga Ora 

finally announced in July that it would 

purchase wool carpet for new state 

homes. 

Sciencing 

In what literally has to be the 

definition of “skin in the game”, Tertiary 

Extracts Ōtautahi announced in July 

it can extract collagen from sheepskin 

pelts: “It’s not just good for skin, hair 

and nails but also for muscle tone, gut 

health and cognition.” 

In August, “Sheep of the Future” was 

announced, a collaborative programme 

between government, Pāmu and Focus 

Genetics, to re-define, well, sheep. Ooo, 

maybe we can get them to eat mint… 

Then in September, Wool Research 

Organisation of NZ turned unexpectedly 

post-modernist, planning to build a 

major wool plant to… deconstruct wool. 

Apparently the cellular components 

can be turned into pigments, key for 

commercial dyes and medical products. 

So why are most sheep white?? 

And this in from our European desk… 

The November fashion show “I Wool 

Survive” featured woollen garments 

from 35 rescued gay German rams, 

known as the Rainbow Wool flock. All 

proceeds went to rainbow causes, and 

the event was sponsored by… Grindr. [If 

you don’t know what that is, don’t look 

it up!] 

Elevated Nitrates? 

We have guaranteed solutions. 

Over 30 years expertise and experience 

specialising in nitrate treatment. 

Call now 0800 177 000 | www.suekelly.co.nz 

Promote your Rural Business 

in the Selwyn Times 

Contact Lynette Mobile: 021 222 7831 

Promote your Rural Business in the Selwyn Times 

- Rural Life feature and your ad will be seen by 46,000 

readers weekly across the ENTIRE Selwyn District. 

The Selwyn Times is delivered FREE each Wednesday 

to 22,480 Rural & Residential households, Covering the 

latest local news and information with digital editions 

also available to view online at www.starnews.co.nz. 

CALL Lynette TODAY to discuss how she can 

help PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS to local Selwyn 

readers, or to the entire Canterbury district. 


Landscape 

Products 

Now Available! 

• Forest Mulch 

• Bark Mulch 

• Bark Nuggets 

(10/20mm) 

• Premium Organic 

Compost 

• Screened Soil 

• Landscape Rocks 

• Paparoa Red 

Rock available in 3 

grades 

• Railway Sleepers 

(2.1 Lengths) 

• Kindling Wood 

• Unscreened Bark 

Delivery fees apply. 

Firewood 

& Coal 

Coal 

20 kg bags 

or 500kg 

bulk bags 

Firewood 

Pick up or 

deliver 

(delivery 

charges apply) 

417 Creyke Road, 

Darfield 

Phone 03 975 4502 

Eftpos now available 

Open Monday to Friday 6am-6pm, Saturday 8am-1pm or after hours by appointment



PETS & PAWS 

Caring for your pet over summer 

As temperatures rise and the festive 

season kicks into gear, West Melton 

Vet Centre reminds you to be aware 

of summer hazards. Keep your furry 

family members safe, happy, and healthy 

through the holiday period and the 

hottest months of the year. 

One common summer problem is grass 

seeds. With the warm weather, many 

pets like to roll around on the ground. 

Unfortunately, they may pick up grass 

seeds that lodge themselves in your pet’s 

body, including ears, paws, eyes and tail. 

These seeds, with sharp barbs and needle 

points, can penetrate the skin and cause 

infections, swelling, abscesses and pain. 

There are dangerous consequences if the 

seed enters the body, as it forms tracts 

as it moves along, and can cause severe 

damage. Regularly checking your pet 

after time outdoors, especially after walks 

through long grass, can prevent a minor 

problem from becoming a vet visit. 

Heat and dehydration are other 

hazards. Overheating can happen quickly, 

so always provide shade, avoid exercise 

during the middle of the day, and ensure 

fresh water is available at all times. It’s 

best to check the footpath by placing the 

back of your hand on the surface for 7 

seconds; if it’s too hot for you to hold, 

it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Never 

leave pets in cars, even with the window 

slightly open, as temperatures inside can 

become dangerous within minutes. 

Humans love their holiday treats, 

but many festive human-safe foods are 

dangerous for pets. This is the time of 

year when accidental poisonings occur. 

Chocolate, raisins and grapes, macadamia 

nuts, cooked bones, alcohol, and rich fatty 

meats like ham can all lead to serious 

illness. Even sugar-free treats containing 

xylitol can be deadly. If you have visitors 

over for meals, remind them not to feed 

your pets with food leftovers. Keep boxes 

of chocolates and other treats out of 

reach of your pets to prevent them from 

sneaking a snack. 

Summer is also a great time for being 

outdoors, meaning there’s a greater 

chance of contact with fleas, ticks, and 

worms. Parasites thrive in warm and 

humid conditions and become more 

active. Keep up with your regular flea 

and tick treatments. With New Zealand’s 

harsh UV exposure, be aware that pets 

may need a pet-safe sunscreen if they 

spend a lot of time outdoors. 

Enjoy your pets this summer, making 

sure they stay safe, comfortable, and 

healthy as you share quality time together. 

Contact West Melton Vet Centre for 

any advice or to make an appointment 

at 03 347 4546. Hours remain the same 

over the Christmas break, except on 

statutory holidays. 

MORE WIGGLE 

THAN WAGGLE? 

Whatever the itch, our friendly 

and professional team at Vetlife 

Dunsandel are ready to help. 

• For all your Glass and 

Glazing requirements • 

• All areas 

covered • 

• Pet door 

specialists • 

Halswell 

Glass 

& 

Glazing 

2017 LTD 

6 Hororata Dunsandel Road, 

Dunsandel | 03 325 4155 

vetlife.co.nz 

GET A PAW IN 

THE DOOR! 

...And let Selwyn pet lovers 

know about your pet business! 

Our Promotions 

BRAVECTO 

• Buy any pack of cat or dog 

Bravecto in December and go 

into the draw to win a Barker’s 

Hamper. 

FREE DENTAL CHECKS & WEIGHT 

LOSS CONSULTS 

• West Melton Vet Centre offers 

free dental checks and weight 

loss consults for your pets. 

Book in today with one of our 

experienced and dedicated 

nurses. 

PUPPY PRE-SCHOOL 

• We are now running puppy 

pre-school classes for 

puppies 8-12weeks old. Please 

contact the clinic for further 

information or to book a class. 

Wishing all our valued clients a 

Merry Christmas and safe & happy holidays 

We will be closed Stat Days only (Dec 25, 26 & Jan 1, 2). 

All other days we will be open our normal working hours 

T&Cs 

Apply 

Phone: 322 7999 

Mobile: 021 CATDOOR (228 3667) 

Email: halswellglass@actrix.co.nz 

Website: www.halswellglass.co.nz 

CALL Lynette TODAY to discuss your 

business advertising options! 

Mobile: 021 222 7831 


West Melton Village, Unit 3, 736 Weedons Ross Rd. P: 03 347 4546 

E: nurses@westmeltonvetcentre.co.nz

EST. 2003 


FEATURE 

MY PRIDE & JOY 

Get ready for Trillo Metals 

Muscle Car Madness 2026! 

Car enthusiasts all around the country 

are putting the finishing touches on 

their new car builds, working late into 

the night. “Why?” you may ask. This 

is because the South Island’s largest 

automotive event, Trillo Metals Muscle 

Car Madness (MCM), is about to take 

place for the 36th time! The event is held 

annually at the Rangiora showgrounds, 

and will be on Saturday, 24th and Sunday, 

25th January 2026. 

The event attracts thousands of 

spectators from all over New Zealand 

and Australia, and in 2026, even from 

California and Hawaii. Each year, many 

new cars make their debut and are 

displayed for the first time. Saturday is 

the main show day, with well over 1,200 

cars, and Sunday around 800. This year, 

car clubs are being invited to put on 

club displays on Sunday. Throughout 

the weekend, there will also be a display 

celebrating 90 years of the 1935 and 1936 

Ford. 

The big highlight each year is the 

burnout competition. This year, it is 

being sponsored by Dunedin’s tyre gurus, 

Treads Dunedin Limited, who are also 

classic car owners. The competition 

starts at 1.15 pm on Saturday, with 

the finals on Sunday at the same time. 

Legendary! 

Live bands are also very popular, with 

a top new Australian band, 19-Twenty, 

playing both days. On this 

New Zealand tour, MCM 

is their one South Island 

appearance. Also appearing 

are the Recliner Rockers, 

returning from Auckland, 

and the Bulletproof Convertible from 

Dunedin, with a total of eight bands. 

There is a huge range of food, a licensed 

bar, trade and craft stalls, and, of course, 

the Rockabilly pageant from 12 noon on 

Saturday. You will see a wide variety of 

classes for every dress theme, and even 

classes for kids. 

Come along and bring the whole 

family! Children under 16 are free, and 

Mum and Dad can get in for just $20 or 

A top entry in the burnouts is Tony Hohnson’s blown big block 

Chevroket powered Austin 1100 from Palmerston North. 

pay $30 for a 2-day pass. This is for public 

viewing hours only. 

Be prepared and enjoy this exciting 

event with the thrill and spectacle of so 

many vehicles. Because of an overload 

last year that caused the EFTPOS to crash 

for over an hour, it’s suggested you have 

a couple of twenty-dollar bills in your 

wallet. 

For further information, call 

Correna at 027 545-7877 after hours. 

Top car of the show was this 1957 Chevrolet sports 

coupe that was driven down from Tauranga. 

Everything from a 1959 Plymouth to a 1941 Willys gasser, 

both cars are from Rolleston. 

Plenty of top Holdens on display, Nigel Smith won Top 

Holden last year in incredibly detailed Holden Ute 

Advanced 

Advanced 

Service, 

Upholstery 

Main Sponsor of 

Muscle Car Madness 

EARTH 

ON SHOW GREATEST 

Auto & Marine Upholstery 

• Auto restoration 

• Boat upholstery 

• Caravan & motorhome 

squabs & awnings 

C U S T O M S 

• Authorised agents for 

Cvana awnings 

• Machine, truck & ute covers 

• Farms Covers & Much More! 

Brian and Sue would like to wish you all Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. 

This year for Advanced Upholstery has been very busy one and we couldn’t have 

done it without the support of our amazing customers - big thank you to all of you. 

Merry Christmas 

and safe holidays 

We will close for the year Tuesday 23rd December at 12pm, reopen Tuesday 13th January at 8am 

3967 West Coast Road 

(between Waddington & Darfield) 

Tue, Wed, Fri 8am to 4.30pm • Thur 8am to 6.30pm 

Sat 8.30am to 12pm 

Phone 03 318 7378 

www.advancedupholstery.co.nz 

SAT 24 TH & SUN 25 TH 

JANUARY 2026 

Retro 

Rockabilly 

Pageant 

Sat 12 noon 

Ladies show off your 

best ‘60s attire! 

+ Junior division for Girls & Boys 

LIVE BANDS 

Latest hot Aussie band 19-Twenty. 

only south island appearance, play 4 

shows at MCM 

FEATURING 

NZ VAN 

NATIONALS! 

INCLUDING PARLOUR 

VANS AUCKLAND! 

9AM–4PM 

ADULTS $20 

KIDS UNDER 16 FREE! 

CHOPPER 

CUSTOM MOTORCYCLE 

DISPLAY! 

Stottle Promotions, PO Box 1, Rolleston, 7643 | Phone Correna 027 545 7877 | musclecarmadnessnz@gmail.com 

@ RANGIORA 

SHOWGROUNDS 

BURNOUT COMP! 

Later start 1:30pm each day



MOTORCARE 

Summer driving 

Often, summer brings a desire to 

get out and explore our amazing 

countryside. Whether you’re visiting 

family and friends or heading out for a 

swim, driving in the summer heat can 

come with some challenges. To make the 

most of your summer and ensure the 

safety of yourself, your passengers, and 

others on the road, here are some helpful 

tips. 

Stay cool 

Start your journey with a cool car 

by parking in a shaded area or using a 

sunshade. Take a few moments before 

setting off to open the car doors and 

windows to let out the hot air, or run the 

air con for a few minutes. 

Keep fluids up 

On hot days, your car engine has to 

work harder than usual. Before setting 

out, check the levels of the brake fluid, 

automatic transmission fluid, power 

steering fluid, windshield washer fluid, 

and coolant. Top off each reservoir as 

needed, and inspect hoses and belts 

for cracks or wear; replace them if 

necessary. 

Cars aren’t the only things that 

depend on fluids to function. Humans 

can quickly become dehydrated in hot 

conditions. To ensure everyone stays 

comfortable during the ride, have plenty 

of water available for all passengers. 

Insulated containers are an excellent 

way to keep drinks and snacks cool on 

longer trips. 

Check tyres 

Before setting out, check your tyres 

for uneven wear or insufficient tread. 

Ensure they are correctly inflated 

according to the manufacturer’s 

specifications. Properly inflated tyres will 

help with your fuel efficiency and help 

maintain cooler tyre temperatures to 

prevent blowouts. 

Monitor your temperature 

Keep an eye on your temperature 

gauge while driving. If your car 

overheats, head to a service station or 

mechanic as soon as possible. In the 

meantime, turn on your car’s heater to 

help remove some heat from the engine. 

However, stop driving immediately if the 

temperature gauge reaches or is close 

to the red zone; continuing to drive in 

this condition can cause severe engine 

damage. Pull over when it is safe to do so, 

turn off the engine, and allow it to cool 

down. Check for any signs of a coolant 

leak or other issues before attempting to 

restart the vehicle. If needed, seek help to 

prevent additional damage. 

Children and pets 

Never leave children or pets 

unattended in a parked car, even in 

shady areas or with the windows slightly 

open. In summer, the temperature inside 

a vehicle can rise rapidly within minutes, 

putting children and pets in extreme 

danger. 

Awareness 

During the summer months, more 

people are on the roads. While 

driving, stay alert, be aware of your 

surroundings, and share the road. You 

may encounter campervans, cyclists, 

horse riders, motorcyclists, and 

pedestrians. Drive defensively and be 

prepared to slow down. 

Sun glare 

Ensure maximum visibility by 

keeping your windscreen clean 

and clear. Check and fill your 

windscreen washer fluid, and 

replace the windscreen wipers if 

necessary. Use sunglasses and the 

car’s sun visors to block sunlight 

from your eyes. 

Don’t drink and drive 

Plan and arrange an alternative 

way to get home if you will be 

drinking alcohol. Remember: don’t 

drink and drive; keep yourself and 

others safe this summer. 

Make the most of summer and 

enjoy your driving experience. 

However, be prepared for the heat 

and keep everyone comfortable and 

safe. 

Selwyn Auto 

ALL YOUR MOTORING NEEDS 

› WOF’s › Diagnostics 

› Repairs › Servicing 

› Batteries › Tyres 

› Courtesy Cars Available 

Phone 329 5841 | 132 Leeston Road, Springston 

www.selwynauto.com | office@selwynauto.com 

Panel repairs, automotive 

detailing, auto electrical, warrants, 

tyres, fitting & balancing… 

THIS SPACE is AVAILABLE 

Promote your business in the Selwyn Times Motorcare 

feature monthly & receive 1-2 FREE editorials per annum 

to showcase your business. 

Showcase your business to 46,000 readers weekly 

across the ENTIRE Selwyn District 

CALL Lynette TODAY to discuss how she can help 

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS to local Selwyn readers, 

or to the entire Canterbury district. 

Contact Lynette Mobile: 021 222 7831 Email: Lynette.Evans@starmedia.kiwi 

LOCALLY OWNED 

AND OPERATED 

Full 

workshop 

available 

• Brakes 

• Servicing 

• Cambelts 

• Clutches 

• Vehicle Scanning 

Tyres & 

Suspension 

• New Tyres 

• Wheel Alignments 

• Puncture Repairs 

• Suspension 

• Lowering Kits 

• 4WD Lift Kits 

• Alloy Wheels 

WE DO 

WOF’s 

We will match or better any genuine quote 

on tyres in Canterbury - GUARANTEED! 

ROLLESTON 

Tigers on Tyres... Pussies on price! 

XMAS/New Year 

Hours: 

Wednesday December 24th 

8am – Midday 

Thursday December 25th CLOSED 

Saturday December 26th CLOSED 

Monday December 29th 8am – 5pm 

Tuesday December 30th 8am – 5pm 

Wednesday 31st 8am - Midday 

Thursday January 1st CLOSED 

Friday January 2nd CLOSED 

Saturday January 3rd CLOSED 

Monday January 5th 

normal hours resume 

44 Hoskyns Road, Rolleston 

Phone: 03 347-0929 

Open 6 days: Mon-Fri 8am - 5pm. 

Sat 8am - 12pm | www.kats.co.nz 

Email: phil@katsrolly.co.nz 

JONES ROAD AUTO 

SEASONS GREETINGS 

Our Christmas Closure Hours Are: 

Closed - Monday 22nd December 5pm 

Reopen - Monday 5th January 8am 

Remember to book in your WOF & Servicing 

needs before the Christmas Closure 

131 IPORT Drive (Cnr Hoskyns & IPORT Drive) 

Phone 347 4020 | www.jonesroadauto.co.nz


GARDENING 

Landscape Supplies 

DIY YOUR OUTDOOR DREAMS 

Open to the public 7 days a week 

261 Manion Road, Rolleston | 03 347 9012 | www.intelligro.co.nz 

Plenty of tasks 

to tackle in peak 

growth season 

Expert advice on what to do for your garden this week 

VEGETABLES 

Cabbage, cauliflower, carrot 

and turnip crops will be maturing 

in the garden in the next two to 

three months. 

It is not difficult to produce 

plenty of these popular vegetables 

in summer and autumn but 

to have good vegetables and the 

right quantities of them yearround 

requires much forethought 

and skill. 

Cabbage, turnip, swedes, dwarf 

peas, silver beet, spinach, parsley, 

lettuce and early carrots can be 

sown to ensure winter and spring 

supplies. 

Transplant celery and leeks into 

rich soil. 

Savoy cabbage, Brussels 

sprouts, broccoli, kale and silver 

beet can be planted with plenty 

of room for full development and 

freedom from pests. 

Garden rubbish easily gathers 

in corners now that crop harvesting 

is in full swing. 

It can be a breeding place and 

shelter for slugs and snails, woodlice 

and overwintering fungus 

diseases. Clear it up and dispose 

of it on the compost heap where, 

in the warmest period of the year, 

it will soon disintegrate into valuable 

compost for mulching and 

top-dressing plots. 

Potatoes can be lifted for festive 

meals, without waiting for 

Potatoes can be lifted now for festive meals, without waiting for the tops to die down. The tender skins will be damaged if 

the work is done roughly but will soon harden and ripen in storage. 

PHOTOS: GETTY 

the tops to die down. The tender 

skins will be damaged if the work 

is done roughly but will soon 

harden and ripen in storage. Keep 

them somewhere cool and dark. 

Straw has many garden uses. As 

a mulch between growing crops, 

it reduces weed growth and will 

be helped to break down by any 

foot traffic between rows. As it 

decomposes, it is converted into 

humus and the locked-up plant 

foods become available to the 

crops. 

FRUIT 

Outdoor tomatoes should be 

staked and tied for support. 

Remove side shoots forming 

in the axils of leaves. 

When the first fruits have 

formed, a weekly soaking with 

water, followed by some liquid 

manure, will help them swell 

and ripen. 

Heritage tomatoes are gaining 

popularity not only for their 

flavour, but also their colour. 

Generally, the paler a tomato, 

the lower in acid it will be, so 

the white and lemon-yellow 

varieties have the lowest acid. 

Growing conditions affect 

the acid and sugar levels 

of tomatoes, which is why 

the same variety may taste 

somewhat different in a cold 

season compared with those 

grown in a hot summer. 

Some hedges, such as Lonicera nitida and privet, need regular trimming at this 

time of year. 

FLOWERS 

Many gardens will be full of 

growth now as gardeners’ plans 

for the summer display come to 

realisation. 

Half-hardy annuals may have 

suffered under wintry spring 

weather. Make a note to plant 

them in better-sheltered spots 

next year. 

Hedges recently trimmed may 

need a quick tidy up if any missed 

shoots are now making strong 

growth. Some hedges, Lonicera 

nitida and privet, are common 

offenders and need regular 

trimming. 

A close-growing hedge, well furnished 

with leafy growth right up 

from the base, provides an attractive 

windbreak and boundary 

marker, though. 

Heritage tomatoes are gaining popularity not only for their flavour, but also their 

colour. Generally, the paler a tomato, the lower in acid it will be. 

Are you ready to grow? 

For real Kiwi gardeners who like 

to get their hands dirty. 

Subscribe 

and save! 

Pay less for your favourite magazine to be home-delivered! 

Subscriptions 0800 624 295 

kiwigardenermagazine.co.nz


PUZZLES Selwyn Times, December 17, 2025 | 37 

CROSSWORD 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 

8 9 

10 11 

12 13 14 15 

16 

17 18 

19 

20 21 22 23 24 

25 26 

431 

SUDOKU 

Every row, column and box should 

contain the digits 1 to 9. 

WordBuilder 

WORDBUILDER6 

331 

L M D 

U E O 

331 

6 

U E O 

words of three or more letters, 

How many words of three or more 

including plurals, can you make from the six 

letters, using each letter only once? No foreign 

How words or beginning with a capital are 

from many the words six letters, of three using or more each letters, only 

allowed. There's at least one six-letter word. 

including once? plurals, can you make from the six 

TODAY 

letters, No Good words using 18 each beginning Very letter Good only 22 with once? Excellent a capital No 26 foreign are 

words 

allowed. Solution or words 330: There’s ani, beginning anis, anise, with 

at least end, inane, a capital 

one inn, six-letter inns, are 

allowed. ins, INSANE, There's nan, nans, at least nine, one nines, six-letter san, sane, word. sea, 

word. sen, senna, SIENNA, TODAY sin, sine. 

Good 18 Very Good 22 Excellent 26 

letters, including plurals, can you make 

Solution 330: ani, anis, anise, end, inane, inn, inns, 

ins, INSANE, nan, nans, nine, nines, san, sane, sea, 

sen, senna, SIENNA, sin, sine. 

27 28 

29 30 

31 32 

33 34 

Across 

1. Shade (6) 

5. Calm (6) 

10. Pilot (7) 

11. Friendly (7) 

12. Rotate (6) 

15. Selection (6) 

16. Consistency, feel (7) 

17. Sudden hard pull (4) 

18. Accomplishment (4) 

19. Strategies (7) 

20. Be unsuccessful (4) 

22. Seep (4) 

25. Serving dish (7) 

27. One level of a building (6) 

28. Trader (6) 

31. Greed (7) 

32. Crush underfoot (7) 

33. Deadly (6) 

34. Artilleryman (6) 

Decoder 

Down 

2. Point of view (7) 

3. Beginning (6) 

4. Uncommon (4) 

5. Summit (4) 

6. Platitude (6) 

7. Feverish (7) 

8. Boggy (6) 

9. Flaw (6) 

13. Legitimately (7) 

14. Law (7) 

15. Fractured (7) 

20. Financial (6) 

21. Seclude (7) 

23. Overshadow (7) 

24. Edible part of a nut (6) 

25. Die (6) 

26. Take back (6) 

29. Hades (4) 

30. Male deer (4) 

Crossword 

Across: 1. Colour, 5. Pacify, 10. Aviator, 11. Amiable, 12. Swivel, 15. Choice, 

16. Texture, 17. Yank, 18. Feat, 19. Tactics, 20. Fail, 22. Leak, 25. Platter, 27. 

Storey, 28. Dealer, 31. Avarice, 32. Trample, 33. Lethal, 34. Gunner. 

Down: 2. Opinion, 3. Outset, 4. Rare, 5. Peak, 6. Cliché, 7. Febrile, 8. Marshy, 

9. Defect, 13. Legally, 14. Statute, 15. Cracked, 20. Fiscal, 21. Isolate, 23. 

Eclipse, 24. Kernel, 25. Perish, 26. Regain, 29. Hell, 30. Stag. 

WordBuilder 

Demo, doe, dole, dome, due, duel, duo, eld, elm, emu, led, leu, lode, loud, 

ludo, meld, mod, mode, model, MODULE, mold, mole, moue, mould, mud, 

mule, ode, old. 

DECODER 

Each number represents a different letter of the alphabet. Write the 

given letters into all squares with matching numbers. Now work out 

which letters are represented by the other numbers. 

All puzzles copyright 

T H E P U Z Z L E C O M P A N Y 

www.thepuzzlecompany.co.nz 

Sudoku 

DELIVERERS WANTED 

Get fit with part time work delivering 

newspapers and mailers into letterboxes. 

• Regular weekly work 

• No experience necessary 

• We are a locally owned company 

• It’s easy, we drop the newspapers/mailers to your door 

Email: 

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Include your name, address, 

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OR SCAN 

THE QR 

CODE 

TO APPLY


CLASSIFIEDS 

YOUR GUIDE TO 

TRUSTED TRADES AND 

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 

To place your advertisement 

contact Heather Hood 

021 372 481 or email 

heather.hood@ncnews.co.nz 

s 

l Wash 

e Prices 

Starlink / TV / Security 

• Starlink aerial mounting • Wi-Fi extensions 

• TV wall mounting • Home audio installation 

• Alarm installation 

• Security camera installation 

Mark Hubball 03 595 6647 

www.tvsolutions.co.nz 

LOW PRICES FOR THIS MONTH 

Jarm Cleaning & Lawn Mowing Services 

Discounted rates on: 

Windows- homes, motels, offices, 

campgrounds, playcentres, 

commercial buildings etc. 

Cleaning – deep cleans, one-off cleans, 

bathroom & kitchen/fridge cleans. 

Book now as we are filling up fast 

Over 30 years experience 

Eco-friendly. Free Quotes 

027 398 1774 

• Roof Moss 

Treatment 

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Wash 

• Exterior Window 

Clean 

• Gutter Clean 

• Driveways 

• Louvres 

• Pathways 

• Dairy Sheds 

• Solar Panel 

Wash 

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Cleaning 

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Prices 

IF YOU NEED IT CLEAN 

GIVE ME A RING 

Phone John 021-256-2409 

966372 

ARBORIST 

Canterbury Tree Experts 

Your Trusted Arborists for Christchurch 

and the Greater Canterbury region 

Email: Ben@CanterburyTreeExperts.co.nz 

Website: CanterburyTreeExperts.co.nz 

Division of Tuffnell Drainage Ltd 

Our Services include: 

- Tree Removal and felling 

- Tree Pruning and height reductions 

- Hedge trimming - Site Clearance 

- Branch Chipping - Stump Grinding 

Fully insured Arborists. 

Contact us for a free site 

visit and quote. 

Phone: 

We unblock drains 

Call us now 03 974 3561 

Now servicing the Selwyn District 

based out of Rolleston and Leeston 

027 4231 538 

TRADES & SERVICES 

Re Roofing 

Roof Repairs 

• Approved Age Concern 

provider 

• Over 30 years experience 

• Licensed Building Practitioner 

N A BARRELL 

ROOFING LTD 

Ph: 0275 389 415 

Email: nabroofing@xtra.co.nz 

10% discount for all valued 

Gold Card Holder customers 

High pressure waterblasting 

CCTV • 7 days a week service 

Ph Mike: 027 272 8058 anytime 

sales@gmcontracting.co.nz 

www.gmcontracting.co.nz 

shelterbelt trimming 

Boundary Trimming 

Call Tony Dempsey 

Mobile 0274 323 943 


ARBOR-TEK Complete 

Tree Care, Tree 

maintenance, felling, 

hedges, shelterbelts, 

stump grinding, 

powerline clearing. No 

job too big or small. Call 

03 349 7143 

BATHROOM TILER wet 

area waterproofing, 

underfloor heating, soap 

boxes, old to new, for 

best results, call Devon 

on 021 375-888 or 03 

329 5511 

CARPET LAYING Exp. 

Repairs, uplifting, 

relaying, restretching. 

Phone John on 0800 

003 181, 027 240 7416 

jflattery@xtra.co.nz 

PETER DIVER PLUMBING 

Got a plumbing or gas job in Rolleston, 

Leeston, Rakaia, Lincoln or Burnham? 

We’re already neighbours! 

Peter Diver Plumbing has team 

members based in your community, 

ready to help with everything from 

leaky taps to gas installations. 

Local service, backed by a trusted 

Christchurch-wide team. 

0800 4 DIVER (0800 4 34837) 

www.peterdiver.co.nz 

landscaping 

25 Years experience 

• Landscape construction and 

garden maintenance 

• Residential & light commercial 

• Garden makeovers 

For a proFessional job call 

ross legg 027 222 0388 

email revivelandscaping23@gmail.com 

WINDOW TINTING 

FENCING 

Quality timber fencing - 

gates & repairs. Timber 

decking. Ph Ryan 027 

951 8892 

LANDSCAPING Paving, 

Lawns, Irrigation, 

Decking, Fencing. Kanga 

& small digger services. 


Check out 

Landscaping 

Squire 

on 

Facebook. FREE 

BEST BATHROOMS Full QUOTES. Ph Arthur 347- 

renovation specialists, 8796, 027 220-7014 

LBP builder. Free quote, 

all building property 

Edwin 027 220-7154 

maintenance. Ph 387- 

0770 or 027 245 5226 

ciey@xtra.co.nz 

tintawindow 

advanced film solutions 

99% uv block 

fade protection 

heat control 

reduce glare 

25 Years Experience 

Free Quotes Canterbury and Districts 

03 365 3653 0800 368 468 

PAINTING 

Indoor / Outdoor, over 

30 yrs exp, same day 

quotes, ph Steve 021 

255 7968 

PEST CONTROL 

SPIDER PROOFING 

ALL OTHER PESTS 

Office: 03 337 9553 

Scott Warlow: 021 168 6118 

Established 1987, Qualified 

& Experienced Professionals 

Member of Pest Management 

Association of NZ 

PROTEKT 

SERVICES 

PLUMBER Do you need 

a reliable plumber? 

Quality and timely 

services. No job too big 

or small. Phone V 

Plumbing Ltd. 022 351 

4125 

PLUMBER Over 40 years 

experience. Available for 

maintenance jobs in the 

Selwyn area. Ph Peter 

0274 332 082 

privacy films 

frosting designs 

non-darkening films 

Workmanship Guaranteed 

Lifetime Warranties on Most Films 

UV 

block 


7”, 45’s, singles, eps 

records wanted, any 

amount top prices paid. 

Pennylane Records, 430 

Colombo Street, 

Sydenham, ring Dave 

021 222 6144, 7 days 

CARS WANTED 

WANTED 

ALL JAZZ Records 

wanted: Kiwi and 

overseas artists, Blue 

Note, Prestige, Riverside, 

ECM, Verve, Impulse, 

CTI, Milestone etc; top 

prices paid for good 

titles. — Please phone 

Dave 021-222-6144, 

Pennylane Records, 7 

days. 

CARAVAN wanted with 

shower and toilet, 

needing repairs ok or 

any condition. Ph 027 

622 0011 

PENNYLANE RECORDS 

always buying records. 

Excellent prices paid. 

430 Colombo Street, 

Sydenham, 366 3278, 

open 7 days 

TOOLS, Garden, garage, 

saw benches, lathes. 

Cash buyer. Phone 355- 

2045. 

CAR REMOVALS 

$$CASH PAID$$ 

CARS, VANS, UTES 

& 4X4 WANTED 

NZ OWNED 

AND 

OPERATED 

FOR 

24 YEARS 

We use world class vehicle 

depollution systems 

0800 77 80 80 

www.pickapart.co.nz


FARM APPLIANCES 

PUBLIC NOTICES 

CLASSIFIEDS/MOTORING Selwyn Times, December 17, 2025 | 39 

FARM MACHINERY 

WANTED 

Anything considered 

Ph 027 4317 259 


TAI TAPU 

TYRES & REPAIRS 

Servicing Cars, Trucks, Lawnmowers 

and Light Engineering. Seller of quality 

Tyres at unbeatable prices. Provide a 

W.O.F. Service. Free pick up and drop 

off of lawnmowers in Tai Tapu Area. 

Advanced Service, 

Advanced Upholstery 

Auto & Marine Upholstery 

• Auto restoration 

• Boat upholstery 

• Caravan & motorhome 

squabs & awnings 

• Authorised agents for 

Cvana awning 

• Machine, truck & ute covers 

• Farms Covers 

• & Much More! 

Merry Christmas and safe holidays 

We will close for the year Tuesday 23rd December at 12pm, 

reopen Tuesday 13th January at 8am 

3967 West Coast Road (between Waddington & Darfield) 

Tue/Wed/Fri: 8am – 4.30pm • Thur: 8am – 6.30pm 

Sat: 8.30am – 12noon • Closed: Sun & Mon 

Ph 03 318 7378 www.advancedupholstery.co.nz 

Hybrid muscle helps 

M5 raise the bar again 

We would like to thank all our 

customers for supporting us 

this year. Merry Christmas 

and Happy Holidays. 

Andrew and Judy Radford 

TO LET 

SLEEPOUT HIRE 

Christmas special, from 

$60pw, free delivery on 

some sleepouts. Biggest 

range, best prices. Ph 

0274 741 723 

nzsleepout.com 

Phone 

Andrew Radford. 

0276262908 

or 3296781 

Main Road RD 4 

TO LET 

SLEEPOUT HIRE 

Christmas special, from 

$60pw, free delivery on 

some sleepouts. Biggest 

range, best prices. Ph 

0274 741 723 

nzsleepout.com 

Christmas Masses 

for the Selwyn Catholic Parish of Our Lady of the Plains – 

incorporating: Lincoln, Leeston, Darfield, and Rolleston. 

Christmas Eve 

Rolleston School Hall (11 Tennyson Street): 

5.30pm carols, 6.00pm mass. 

Leeston - St John the Evangelist Church: 


Darfield - St Jospeh’s Church: 

8.00pm carols, 8.30pm mass 

Lincoln - St Patrick’s Church: 


Christmas Day 

Lincoln - St Patrick’s Church: 9.00am mass. 

Contacts: Frs Brian Fennessy & Chris Orr; 

31 Gerald Street, Lincoln, 7608. 

Email: selwyncatholicparish@gmail.com 

Mobile: 027 675 8456 

Calling 111 

Step one 

Starting CPR 

Step two 


Learn CPR for your loved one 

This free training is designed to give you the confidence to take 

action if someone suffers a cardiac arrest by: 

ADVERTISE YOUR 

BUSINESS HERE 

Phone for further details 

(03) 379 1100 

Using an AED 

Step three 

More 

informatıon 

Motoring with Bob Nettleton 

Improving on the epic M5 – already 

one of the finest high-performance 

luxury sedans around – was a daunting 

assignment for BMW. But they have 

nailed it in emphatic fashion. 

The team charged with this challenge 

applied serious engineering ingenuity, 

trademark Germanic attention to detail 

and a healthy dose of plug-in hybrid 

tech to create a modern, stylish and 

immensely potent successor to its hugely 

impressive predecessor. It catapults the 

already vaunted M5 badge to even loftier 

heights – an extraordinary achievement 

in itself. 

A distinctive styling package features 

muscular wheel arches, side skirt 

extensions, a sculpted front apron and 

an aerodynamically optimised M rear 

spoiler, all finished in high-gloss black. 

The nicely proportioned lines give this 

M5 its commanding and aggressive road 

presence. Joining the exclusive BMW 

M club comes at a price, in this case 

$244,900. 

This latest M5 sedan is the third BMW 

M model in the current line-up to run the 

M HYBRID system from the company’s M 

Hybrid World Endurance Championship 

race car. 

The 4.4-litre M TwinPower Turbo V8 

delivers 430kW and 750Nm, free-revving 

all the way to 7200rpm. The electric 

motor, integrated into the transmission, 

contributes 145kW and 280Nm – but a 

clever pre-gearing stage boosts torque 

at the transmission input to a staggering 

450Nm. Combined, the system unleashes 

a colossal 545kW and an eye-watering 

1000Nm of torque 

All this power is channelled through 

an eight-speed auto, the clever M xDrive 

all-wheel-drive system and an electronically 

controlled differential. Together 

they form the backbone of this high-end, 

authentically luxurious performance 

express. 

The character of this M5 is not solely 

defined by the addictive thrum of its V8 

exhaust – though that alone will hook 

any enthusiast. It now adds a plug-in 

hybrid capability, allowing all-electric 

running for those quieter solo trips. 

A fast-charging cable tailored for 

public chargers makes replenishing the 

high-voltage battery quick and simple. 

BMW claims up to 61km of electric-only 

range, although the test car managed 

just over 40km – handy rather than 

groundbreaking. 

Not for the faint-hearted are the 

Dynamic and Dynamic Plus modes, tailored 

specifically for circuit use, with 

engine, e-motor and cooling systems configured 

to meet track demands. 

A new Boost mode – activated by 

a long pull of the left paddle – delivers 

extra punch between 30km/h and 

150km/h for sudden bursts of speed. 

I found there was already more than 

enough thrust on tap, but some may 

Rating out of 10: Performance 9, Handling 

9, Build Quality 8, Comfort 7, Space 8, 

Styling 8, Fuel Economy; On road test 

average consumption, 8.5L /100km, Value 

for money 7, Safety, 5 Star EuroNCAP 

rating 

Price: $244,000 

Overall points out of 10: 9 

enjoy knowing the option exists. 

For such a performance juggernaut, its 

ease of use is genuinely impressive. 

Considering its size, the M5 is remarkably 

well-mannered in urban driving, 

happy to potter around without constantly 

tugging at the leash. That’s in 

contrast to some rivals that seem restless 

driving anywhere but the fast lane. 

Passenger space is generous front and 

rear, with excellent head and shoulder 

room, plus a cavernous, easily accessed 

boot. 

Standout highlights include the light, 

airy cabin, a newly designed flat-bottomed 

heated steering wheel with lovely 

tactility, and the BMW Interaction Bar 

with M-specific ambient lighting that 

greets you with ‘Welcome’ and ‘Goodbye’ 

animations. The Merino leather trim 

looks and feels every bit as premium as 

expected. 

A centre-console control panel houses 

model-specific buttons, including the 

Setup switch to tailor the drive system, 

transmission logic, chassis, steering, 

brakes and xDrive AWD settings – and 

fine-tune the M HYBRID modes to your 

preference. The large panoramic sunroof 

is among the best I’ve seen in a luxury 

performance sedan. 

This latest M5 is loaded with advanced 

driver-assistance tech, including Driving 

Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant 

Professional. 

The suspension retains that traditional 

taut BMW ride, expertly smoothing out 

rough surfaces and minimising noise 

while still delivering the exceptional 

road holding you’d expect from a modern 

M performance great. 

For me, the M5 remains the 

benchmark in its class – its balance, 

poise and agility on twisty, undulating 

terrain deliver a feel-good factor that’s 

off the scale. 

Much of the credit goes to the superbly 

balanced chassis and finely tuned 

adaptive suspension. BMW’s latest 

xDrive AWD system also plays its part, 

multitasking brilliantly to provide 

immense traction and grip while taming 

the monumental power and torque. 

The result – an unforgettable driving 

experience.

©2026 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc., (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. *Offer valid on models sold in New Zealand from 01.12.2025 to 31.1.2026 

at participating authorized BRP dealers. The conditions may vary depending on your location and this offer is subject to termination or change at any time without notice. This offer is not refundable, exchangeable or transferable (including 

from dealership to another), cannot be redeemed for cash, credit or other products of equivalent value and cannot be combined with any other offer or rebate. Null where prohibited by law. Until supplies last. 

Filly Place, Yaldhurst t: 03 943 5391 | w: apws.co.nz 

CHRISTCHURCH NISSAN, 392 Moorhouse Avenue, Christchurch 

Ph: 03 595 6820 www.christchurchnissan.co.nz 

christchurchnissan.co.nz

LIFT OUT 

FEATURING THE BEST 

PROPERTIES ACROSS 

THE SELWYN DISTRICT 

PUBLISHED EVERY WEDNESDAY 

WEEK COMMENCING WEDNESDAY, 17TH DECEMBER, 2025 

Country Living At Its Finest 

Beds: 4 | Bathrooms: 2 | Living Areas: 2 | Garage: 2 | Land size: 13.18 Hectares | House size: 230m 2 

Located within easy commuting distance of Lincoln, 

Rolleston, and the city, this 13.18 ha lifestyle 

property delivers the best of rural living. The 230 m² 

family home sits on sweeping lawns and features a 

practical country-style kitchen, sun-filled family/ 

dining area, and a large formal lounge. 

All four bedrooms are doubles, with a generous 

master complete with an en suite and walk-in robe. 

A central family bathroom, office, separate laundry, 

log burner, and heat pump add to the home’s 

functionality. 

The fertile land offers lush pasture suitable for 

raising calves, finishing cattle, hay, and equestrian 

use. Sheds include a three-bay barn, a second utility 

shed for boats or trailers, plus additional storage. 

With the Selwyn River nearby for swimming, 

fishing, and recreation, this is a standout lifestyle 

opportunity. 

Enquiries Over $1,198,000 considered. Price is plus 

GST on the land (if any). 

Stephan Knowler 

Contact: 

Mob: 027 229 9522 

Email: stephan@mkrealestate.co.nz 

297 Pannetts Road, Springston Open Home: Viewing By Appointment over the Christmas Period 

WISHING EVERYONE 

A MERRY CHRISTMAS! 

HOLIDAY HOURS 

CLOSING 

RE-OPENING 

5pm, Friday 19th December 

9am, Monday 12th January 

SCAN TO VISIT OUR 

FACEBOOK PAGE 

POWERED BY OWNLY LTD. LICENSED REAA 2008 

admin@mkrealestate.co.nz 

MKREALESTATE.CO.NZ

2 

Merry Christmas from Selwyn's largest locally 

owned & operated property management company 

Paul Clement 

Business Development Manager 

bdm.redchili@raywhite.com 

027 522 8210 

Contact Paul or April for a Free Rental Appraisal 

April Nicholls 

Business Development Manager 

redchili.bdm@raywhite.com 

027 212 9619 

Cara Callister 

Manager/ Senior Property 

Manager 

027 247 4083 

Ilze Erasmus 

Property Manager 

027 227 7663 

Jane Lowe 

Property Manager 

027 255 9850 

Donna-Marie Bell 

Senior Property Manager 

027 456 1133 

Ray White Red Chili Property Management 

Rolleston | West Melton | Lincoln | Prebbleton 

rwrolleston.co.nz | rwwestmelton.co.nz | rwlincoln.co.nz | rwprebbleton.co.nz | redchilipm.co.nz 

Red Chili Property Management Ltd. Licensed (REAA 2008) 

New Listing/Open Home 


FOR SALE 

32 Hollows Lane, Rolleston 

3A2B2L2J 

DEADLINE SALE 

48 Leeston Dunsandel Road, Dunsandel 

3A1B1L1J 

• 3 bedrooms (master with 

ensuite and WIR) 

• 2 living areas providing 

flexibility for family living 

• Modern kitchen with quality 

appliances & open-plan flow 

• Double internal-access garage 

plus off-street parking 

For Sale 

By Negotiation 

View 

Sunday 3.45 - 4.15pm 

Holly Partridge 

027 777 1270 

holly.partridge@raywhite.com 

Caine Hopcroft 

027 330 1002 

caine.hopcroft@raywhite.com 

• Four-bedroom family home 

• Modern refreshed home 

• Large garage and workshop 

• Private outdoor entertaining 

• Low-maintenance materials 

and fencing 

Deadline Sale 

4pm Monday 22nd 

December 2025 (unless 

sold prior) 

View 

Saturday 12.30 - 1.00pm 

Sunday 10.00 - 10.30am 

'Big Red' Shefford 

027 224 4733 

brendan.shefford@raywhite.com 

Doug Marshall 

027 825 1147 

doug.marshall@raywhite.com 

rwtownandlifestyle.co.nz/RLL32663 

Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008) 


Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)

3 


FOR SALE 

68 Vernon Drive, Lincoln 

4A2B2L2J 

FOR SALE 

103 Scout Street, Rolleston 

4A2B1L2J 

• 261sqm floor area with 

multiple automated skylights 

• Formal lounge + everyday 

living opening to covered 

alfresco area 

• Kwila deck & outdoor gas fire 

• High-spec kitchen with walkin 

butler's pantry 

• Ducted central heating 

For Sale 

Offers Over $1,299,999 

View 


Sunday 1.45 - 2.15pm 

Rowan Shepherd 

027 303 1565 

rowan.shepherd@raywhite.com 

Georgina Christie 

027 523 2641 

georgina.christie@raywhite.com 

• 203m2 floor plan | 473m2 

section 

• Walk-in pantry, separate living 

room + laundry 

• Scissor trusses in living 

• Complete landscaping: 

driveway, patios, topsoil, and 

grass all included 

For Sale 

$870,000 

View 

by appointment 

Caine Hopcroft 

027 330 1002 

caine.hopcroft@raywhite.com 

Holly Partridge 

027 777 1270 

holly.partridge@raywhite.com 

rwtownandlifestyle.co.nz/LIC31000 




Open Home 

FOR SALE 

27 Kinglear Drive, Rolleston 

• Spacious & light-filled open plan living area with French 

doors leading out to sunny patio 

• Kitchen features a breakfast bar, gas hobs & garden views - 

perfect for entertaining or everyday family living 

• Generous separate lounge offers further living space & 

boasts a cosy gas fire & elegant coved ceiling 

• Master suite has walk-in wardrobe, ensuite & garden views 

• Quiet family-friendly location yet close to many amenities 

rwtownandlifestyle.co.nz/LIC31173 


For Sale 

Offers Over $799,000 

View 

Sunday 12.00 - 12.30pm 

4A2B2L2J 

Dwayne Bloomfield 

021 163 9874 

dwayne.bloomfield@raywhite.com 

Emma Langton-George 

027 555 0568 

emma.langton-george@raywhite.com

4 

Open Home 

FOR SALE 

45 Bonecrusher Street, Lincoln 

4A2B2J 

FOR SALE 

30 Oak Tree Lane, Rolleston 

4A1K2B2L2J 

• Surprisingly spacious 165m2 

(approx) floor plan 

• Open plan living with triple 

sliders to fully fenced garden 

• 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms 

• Master with outdoor access, 

WIR and ensuite 

• Double garage, smart wiring 

and more! 

For Sale 


View 

Thursday 4.00 - 4.30pm 

Saturday 11.00 - 11.30am 

Fiona Shearing 

021 229 6009 

fiona.shearing@raywhite.com 

'Big Red' Shefford 

027 224 4733 

brendan.shefford@raywhite.com 

• Set in desirable Maddisons 

Gardens subdivision 

• Open plan living flowing to 

sunny & private courtyard 

• Separate formal lounge 

• Master has ensuite & WIR 

• Warm & cosy with undertile 

heating, gas fire & heat pump 

For Sale 


View 

by appointment 

Dwayne Bloomfield 

021 163 9874 

dwayne.bloomfield@raywhite.com 

Emma Langton-George 

027 555 0568 

emma.langton-george@raywhite.com 






Open Home 

DEADLINE SALE 

50 Te Waikare Street, Lincoln 

4A2B2L2J 

FOR SALE 

42 Fairmaid Street, Lincoln 

4A2B2L2J 

• Built in 2022 with spacious 

living areas 

• Open-plan lounge/dining plus 

separate living room 

• Kitchen with scullery & 

induction cooktop 

• Master suite with walk-in 

wardrobe and modern ensuite 

• Ample off-street parking 

Deadline Sale 

4pm Tuesday 13th January 

2026 (unless sold prior) 

View 


Sunday 2.30 - 3.00pm 

Jeremy O'Connor 

022 1087 400 

jeremy.oconnor@raywhite.com 

Rowan Shepherd 

027 303 1565 

rowan.shepherd@raywhite.com 

• Brand-new, freshly completed 

• Luxury feel throughout - 2.55 

ceiling height & 2.2 internal 

doors 

• Separate lounge/media room 

• Prime Location close to local 

amenities 

• Year-round comfort with 

ducted heating & cooling 

For Sale 


View 


Sunday 10.45 - 11.15am 

Jaspal Singh 

021 058 2551 

jaspal.singh@raywhite.com 

Nav Kumar 

021 114 4122 

nav.kumar@raywhite.com 




Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)

5 

Dear Selwyn Community, 

We sincerely appreciate your support 

throughout the year. 

Our team will be available over the 

Christmas & New Year period 

to assist with all your real estate needs. 

Please feel free to reach out to your preferred agent; 

their contact details can be found 

at rwtownandlifestyle.co.nz. 

For any Property Management enquiries, 

please contact Paul Clement at 027 522 8210. 

For general questions, you can reach us 

at 03 347 9988. 

Wishing you a wonderful Christmas! 

We look forward to connecting with you in 2026. 

Sincerely 

YOUR TOWN & LIFESTYLE TEAM 

Rolleston | Lincoln | West Melton | Prebbleton 

rwtownandlifestyle.co.nz | rwredchilipm.co.nz 

Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Ltd. Licensed (REAA 2008)

6 

Looking for a property – what really counts? 

You are in the market for a new property, 

scrolling the Internet, examining 

properties for sale and zeroing in on 

those with potential. They might be in 

locations that offer cheaper land, larger 

houses, or convenience to work or school. 

You may have visited show homes and 

open homes becoming confused, overwhelmed 

or swept away with emotional 

factors like having everything new, or 

extra features such as three car garaging. 

To be happy with your choice, list the 

features that you need, considering: 

• Family space – Is there room for the 

children to play indoors and for television 

and entertainment units? Should 

this be open plan or separated? 

• Kitchen – What needs to be in your 

kitchen? How serious are you about a 

butler’s pantry? Is it a whim or something 

that offers a practical solution to 

the way you use your kitchen? 

• Bedroom sizes – What are optimum 

sizes? Smaller bedrooms may translate 

to slightly lower building costs while 

extra space can be useful. When looking 

at existing homes, consider whether the 

size of each bedroom is sufficient. 

• Garaging – A standard double garage 

once two cars are parked there offers 

little space for the toys. What toys do 

you have and could they live with the 

lawnmower in a garden shed, a cheaper 

option to three car garaging? If the 

budget allows and a larger garage with 

workshop is important, make it a selection 

priority. 

• Size of land – Lifestyle properties 

offer space for children, pets, hobbies, an 

expansive garden and perhaps a homerun 

business but they require work so 

are not for everyone and a compact 

section might be more sensible if a tight 

budget or busy lifestyle. 

• Bathrooms – Second and third bathrooms 

are great in homes with teenagers 

and a wet shower room is ideal for young 

children. A bath might be fashionable 

though is often not used and its absence 

could mean a more spacious bathroom. 

• Laundry – Would a laundry in the 

garage do the job? 

• Storage – How much storage do you 

need? Weigh up what can truly be stored 

in the garage once vehicles are in, a preference 

in winter. Garages vary in size 

so check the size to ensure your vehicles 

will fit. Look also at where else the 

house offers storage capacity such as in 

hall cupboards, a large hot water cylinder 

cupboard, wardrobes (check their 

width and depth), walk-in robe, attic 

storage trusses, as well as the potential 

for hooks and shelving in the garage for 

bikes, tools, garden equipment and even 

kayaks. 

• Off-street parking – How many vehicles 

can be parked on the driveway? Will 

this space be sufficient? 

• Garden - Is there sufficient space for 

your children to play or for entertaining? 

A checklist will allow you to determine 

what will suit your needs, the point of the 

exercise, saving you time looking at properties 

or potential house designs while 

assisting you to decide whether to buy a 

new or existing home with both options 

having advantages and disadvantages. 

Less talk, more delivery at 12 Vernon, Lincoln 

Now Open 

• The Bicycle Thief Restaurant 

(ex old Tai Tapu Road) 

• The Turkish Grill Restaurant 

(also in Rolleston) 

There are a further 

3 units available 

for lease 

Unit 1 - Cnr Vernon & Kakahi 173m 2 - very high 

profile site, windows on 3 sides. 

Unit 6 - facing Vernon Dr 100m 2 - fitted out 

with reception, 4 treatment rooms, 

lighting, ceiling, toilet and staff 

room, (ideal for woman’s beauty, 

counselling etc) 

Unit 8 - facing carpark 184m 2 - open space, 

includes two toilets, cleaning room, 

two sets of doors. 

Coming Soon... 

• Cosmetic Denture Clinic 

• Hear Audiologist 

• Motus Health 

(relocating from 3 Vernon Drive 

& Lincoln University) 

• Lincoln Hair Design 

(relocating from Gerald Street) 

• Gelato & European Foods 

Enquiries to Mike mike@bel.nz mobile 027 570 7674 

12 Vernon Stage 2 

Detailed design is being done now for stage 2. Similar design, space and 

more carparking. Units can be tailored as to size and particular tenancy 

requirements. Businesses offering goods and services complementary to 

what is offered in Lincoln at present welcome. 

Also available for lease 

Unit 7 - 

3 Vernon Dr (ex Motus)* 

147m 2 available approx. - 31.1.26 

Reception 

5 treatment rooms 

Staff room - Toilet 

Open space 

Polished concrete floor 

Ceiling, lighting 

Air conditioned 

Double glazed well insulated 

100% NBS 

64 onsite carparks 

Unit 13B - 

8 Vernon Dr 

97m 2 available now 

Open plan office 

First floor, good views to Port Hills 

Kitchenette - Toilets 

Ceiling, lighting 

Carpeted 

Air conditioned 

Double glazed well insulated 

100% NBS 

42 onsite carparks 

Note * First space of 11 units at 3 Vernon to come available since 2017 

A strong testament to the strength of the Lincoln market

7 

NICK BOOTH 

IT’S ABOUT 

THE PEOPLE 

In Rolleston and across Selwyn, real estate isn’t 

just bricks and mortar. It’s memories being made, 

chapters closing, and new beginnings taking shape. 

Over the past year, Nick Booth has been privileged to guide more than 84 

families and individuals through some of life’s most meaningful transitions. 

From first homes to farewells, every sale has a story - and every client 

becomes more than just a name on a contract. 

In the past 12 months, Nick Booth has proudly assisted with: 

• 15 first home 

buyers welcomed 

• 13 families upgrading 

their lifestyle 

• 20 families relocating 

into or out of Selwyn 

• 9 investors achieving 

their selling goals 

• 2 families stepping 

into retirement 

• 11 families downsizing 

• 4 investors purchasing 

• 4 families moving 

to a lifestyle block 

• 3 families navigating 

separation 

• 1 estate sale, handled with 

care and compassion 

• 2 families wanting multigenerational 

housing 

These aren’t just transactions - they’re real moments 

in people’s lives. And Nick is honoured to have 

played a part in each and every one. 

To everyone who has been part of the journey 

this year - thank you for your continued support. 

Wishing the Selwyn community a very Merry 

Christmas and warm wishes for the season. 

Thinking of selling? 

Get in touch with Nick today. 

Nick Booth | 027 306 3186 

nick.booth@bayleys.co.nz 

WHALAN AND PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008 

Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services

8 

Live Auction Event 

List Now 

Experience the auction event of 2026, partner with Bayleys to 

get your property under the hammer. Benefit from our seasoned 

agents, award-winning auctioneers, and tailored marketing packages, 

to ensure no stone is left unturned to find you the best buyer. 

bayleys.co.nz/canterbury 


Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services

9 

NEW LISTING 

Leeston 37A Woodville Street 

Your next chapter starts here 

Set on a manageable 630sqm (approx.) section, this 180sqm (approx) home is all about easy, relaxed living without 

compromising on style. Thoughtfully designed for families, it offers a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, 

perfect for both entertaining and everyday life. The heart of the home is a bright, open-plan kitchen, dining, and 

living area. Bi-fold doors connect effortlessly to a sunny deck, making summer gatherings a breeze. Need extra 

space? A second living room opens to the deck as well, giving everyone room to spread out. The kitchen is practical 

and inviting, with a breakfast bar, generous bench space, and a walk-in pantry to keep things organised. Three 

bedrooms ensure comfort for the whole family. The master comes with an ensuite, walk-in robe, and private access 

to the deck and spa area, a quiet retreat at the end of the day. 

3 2 2 2 

For Sale offers invited over $717,000 

View by appointment 

Suzy McPherson 027 695 0519 

suzy.mcpherson@bayleys.co.nz 


bayleys.co.nz/5529252 

RURAL | LIFESTYLE | RESIDENTIAL 

NEW LISTING 

EXCLUSIVE 

COALGATE 127 Bridge Street 

Stylish Coalgate Living with Space to Spare 

Discover effortless living in this beautifully presented 

3-bedroom Coalgate home. 

Enjoy oversized bedrooms, a modern kitchen, openplan 

dining, and a cosy lounge with log fire and heat 

pump. Double glazing ensures year-round comfort. 

Step outside to established gardens, a grow house, 

and a fully fenced section with exceptional indooroutdoor 

flow to a large deck. Peaceful setting, close to 

Darfield and Hororata—don’t miss out! 

DEADLINE PRIVATE TREATY GST 

Inclusive 

(Unless Sold Prior) 

Closes 1.00pm, Wednesday 28 January 

VIEW By Appointment Only 

Sarah van Hoof 

M 027 230 9624 

E sarah.vanhoof@pggwrightson.co.nz 

Ben Southen 

M 027 222 0215 

E ben.southen@pggwrightson.co.nz 

SOUTHBRIDGE 41 Frasers Road 

Wow! Wow! Wow Factor! 

Builders Own Home - on just over 10 hectares of 

fabulous! A stunning and sophisticated slice of 

paradise offering modern living and style surrounded 

by a rural outlook. Offering open-plan living and 

kitchen area with polished concrete floors, a large deck 

with outdoor lighting, a pizza oven and fireplace 

overlooking the paddocks and trees. 2-bay barn with 

built-in 3rd bay, so loads of space for vehicles, storage 

or a craft-room/workshop, and a further 3-bay barn 

offers even more storage. Give Penny a call to arrange 

your viewing. 

ENQUIRIES OVER $1.9M 

VIEW By Appointment Only 

Penny Dadson-Clausen 

M 027 895 5943 

E penny.dadson-clausen@pggwrightson.co.nz 

pggwre.co.nz/DAR42678 

pggwre.co.nz/LCN42530 

PGG Wrightson Real Estate Limited, licensed under REAA 2008 

Helping grow the country

10 

Your guide to all things Real Estate 

in the Selwyn District 

Prepare to paint like a pro 

When it comes to giving your home 

a makeover, few things have as big an 

impact as painting the walls and if you’re 

hoping to keep costs low then you might 

be thinking of doing the job yourself. 

It may be tempting to cut a few corners, 

especially if DIY isn’t exactly your favourite 

way to spend your free time, but as 

the old saying goes: fail to prepare, prepare 

to fail – and that certainly holds true 

when it comes to painting your walls. 

Spending some time carefully preparing 

your walls before you start means 

you’ll end up with a much more professional 

finish and save yourself time and 

hassle in the long run. 

So, let’s get going: 

Clear out 

Firstly, take down paintings, photos 

and mirrors, and then remove as much of 

the furniture from the room as possible. 

For heavier items, you may need to enlist 

the help of a friend or relative – and if 

it’s still a struggle to move it far, you can 

drag it to the centre of the room and 

cover it with an old bedsheet to avoid 

splashes. Remove rugs and cover carpets 

or floors with sheets or old newspaper to 

catch any spillages. 

Check for damage 

With the space now more open, take a 

minute to look for any signs of damage to 

your walls that will need to be repaired 

before you whip out your brush and 

roller. 

Any small holes or cracks can be easily 

fixed with some filler – choose one that is 

designed for the surface you’re painting. 

Before applying filler, make sure the 

area is clean and scrape off any old paint 

or loose plaster that may be hanging 

around. 

Apply a thin layer of the filler, ensuring 

the hole or crack is completely 

covered. Carefully spread the filler 

across the area as required and then 

remove excess with a swift downward 

stroke. Once the filler is in place, and 

you’ve allowed it to dry, sand it down 

until its nice and smooth. 

Any other rough patches of plaster or 

flaking paint can also be tackled with the 

sandpaper to give yourself a consistent 

surface to work with. 

Cleaning is key 

Grab your trusty cloth and a bucket of 

warm, soapy water and give the walls 

a good clean removing any dust, dirt, 

grease, and grime – all of which can stop 

the paint sticking. 

After cleaning them down, make sure 

you give walls a final once over with a 

damp sponge to remove any last traces of 

soap and then allow your newly cleaned 

walls to dry naturally, this will ensure 

your paints goes on nice and smoothly. 

Mask it up 

Grab a roll of masking tape to make 

your paint job faster, cleaner and neater. 

Use a good quality tape and carefully 

apply it along any edges you don’t want 

to paint, including skirting boards and 

window frames. 

Push the tape down firmly and make 

sure there’s no gaps for paint to seep 

underneath. 

Almost there 

With your walls repaired, sanded 

and cleaned, it’s almost time to paint 

– but before you prise open that paint 

can have a quick tidy up. It’s likely 

you’ve made a bit of mess while prepping, 

so give yourself room to move 

by getting rid of your bucket of water, 

sandpaper, filler knife and whatever 

else is lying around. It’s also a good 

idea to vacuum the room to collect any 

bits of dust or debris that may have collected 

while you’ve been getting your 

walls ready. 

By following the steps above, you’re 

giving yourself the very best chance 

of painting success and leaving your 

home with walls you can be proud of. 

SIGNATURE HOMES CHRISTCHURCH SOUTH 

Great things come 

in smart packages 

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and 

contemporary design at our Faringdon Showhome 

Enjoy peaceful mornings with sun-soaked open-plan 

kitchen, living and dining area that brings everyone 

together. It’s a home that just feels good. 

Open Thurs - Sun 12pm - 4pm 

28 Finstock Way, Rolleston

11 

Four Seasons Realty 


Scan the QR 

code to view 

more listings 

MERRY 

& HAPPY NEW YEAR! 

As your local real estate experts we’d like to take the 

opportunity to wish you and your families 

a Merry Christmas and safe and happy holiday season. 

We look forward to working with 

you and our local community in the New Year! 

We’re ready to help when you need us. 

From the team at 


harcourtsfourseasons.co.nz 

0800 789 1011 fourseasons@harcourts.co.nz 

harcourtsfourseasons.co.nz 

Licensed Agent REAA 2008 

Your home for local property

12 

Identifying the square metre rate 

The square metre rate (sqm) is the 

average cost of building each square 

metre of a house; calculated by dividing 

the total build price by the home’s total 

square metres. 

Sqm rates are not standard across 

all parts of a house with building costs 

varying between rooms. Garages cost 

considerably less than utility rooms like 

kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries so 

choosing high quality appliances and 

more features can ratchet up the build 

price. 

The cladding chosen is also relevant. 

A quoted sqm figure is likely based on 

brick veneer, the cheapest form of cladding, 

followed by plaster finish then 

cedar. 

Building a smaller house does not necessarily 

translate to a lower sqm rate. 

Certain costs are incurred regardless of 

the size of home. You still need an electrical 

switchboard and the same number 

of building inspections. The cost of drainage, 

hot water cylinder, garage door, and 

telephone and electricity connections 

will not differ significantly between 

larger and smaller houses. Building consent 

fees do vary with the size of house. 

Sqm figures are therefore guides, influenced 

by the features specified and type 

of build. The standard sqm figure quoted 

by a building company is generally based 

on construction of a standard house on a 

fully serviced section, on good ground. 

Ground conditions determine the 

type and cost of foundations. If building 

on TC1 land the foundations are more 

affordable than on TC3 land. Ease of connection 

of services like electricity and 

the internet are also a factor. For example, 

the distance from house to roadside 

is usually further on a lifestyle 

property. 

When a housing company 

quotes a square metre rate, it will 

likely refer to building the actual 

house, not external landscaping 

or other features. 

Some building companies offer 

turn-key packages where the 

build price incorporates an allowance 

for fences, driveways, paths, letterbox, 

some soft landscaping, and maybe a 

clothesline. You will want to ascertain 

what you will get for your money. 

A building company’s lowest sqm rate 

is likely (though not always) based on a 

standard stud and internal door height, 

and flat ceilings. Deviations like opting 

for over height doors or higher ceilings 

are usually extras with the build 

price increasing. Be aware of sales patter 

encouraging adding non-essential 

features you may not really want, and 

which might exceed your budget. 

The features incorporated into a new 

home impact on the sqm build price, a 

figure which can range from $1,600 per 

sqm for a standard house to over $3,000 

per sqm for an architecturally designed 

home. 

When visiting show homes, determine 

each company’s sqm rate and add-on 

features incorporated, for the home on 

view. Ask what is standard for each level 

within their range of builds. The figures 

will vary substantially between homes 

and companies. Gather plenty of information 

to gain an appreciation of what a 

quoted sqm figures represents. 

Selling your home? 

Potential buyers are likely to be 

living in your neighbourhood, it’s 

an area that they already love 

and are actively seeking to stay 

in. That’s why it makes sense to 

advertise your property in the 

Selwyn Property Guide. 

For cost effective, highly targeted advertising 

that delivers results, contact a local 

Real Estate Company that advertises in 

the Selwyn Property Guide. 

73 

The place to sell a Selwyn Property! 

We are the only 

media that 

reaches across 

the entire 

Selwyn District. 

Arthur’s Pass 

1 

77 

Springfield 

Glentunnel DarfieldTempleton 

Rolleston 

Burnham Lincoln 

Dunsandel Tai Tapu 

Leeston

13 

FEBRUARY 2026 

AN AUCTION EVENT GEARED TO GET YOU MORE! 

The BID DAY OUT auction extravaganza 

features a discounted marketing programme, 

more qualified buyers, more competition and 

ultimately, more money in your pocket. 

If you want to get SOLD, there is no better 

opportunity this summer. 

Don’t miss out; call us today on 03 929 0306 

Scan the QR code, or visit 

pb.co.nz/bdo for more details. 

Terms and Conditions apply | Licensed REAA 2008 

| Proud to be here

14 

What is a cross lease property? 

Cross leases are a complicated form 

of property ownership in New Zealand 

and lots of people find them hard to 

understand. In fact, they can be so troublesome 

that the Law Commission has 

recommended they are abolished. 

There are four main types of property 

ownership in New Zealand – freehold, 

leasehold, unit title and cross lease. In 

a cross lease, you own a share of the 

freehold title with the other cross leaseholders 

and a leasehold interest in the 

particular area and building that you 

occupy. 

It’s important to understand what buying 

a cross lease property might mean 

for you. Many people don’t do their due 

diligence on cross leases and find themselves 

in a bit of a mess as a result. 

Cross leases are common in areas 

where there has been a lot of subdividing 

of larger sections, or in blocks of two 

to four units – the houses may be standalone 

homes, or they may be units/flats. 

In a cross lease title, property owners 

share ownership of the land and the 

buildings on it. 

If you hold a cross lease, you are a 

part-owner of every building on the plot 

of land – not just the one you occupy – 

with the other leaseholders. Each cross 

leaseholder is granted what is known 

as a registered leasehold estate of the 

particular area and building that they 

occupy. These leases are usually for 999 

years for a nominal rent, like 10 cents 

per annum. Each lease sets out exclusive 

areas of occupation as well as any shared 

or common areas. In other words, your 

house or unit is set apart just for you and 

your family, but you have equal access to 

shared areas (like a driveway, or garages, 

or a common garden area). A cross lease 

title also includes a plan of the footprint 

of the property, called the flats plan, so 

you can see if it matches the property 

you are looking at. 

This form of shared ownership means 

that any structural changes to the property 

or shared areas must be agreed 

upon by all the owners. 

Depending on the terms of the cross 

lease, you may need to get the other 

owners’ consent for things like painting 

the exterior of your property, 

building a deck or putting up a fence. 

These provisions are usually referred 

to as covenants. A covenant may place 

restrictions on what you may do with 

the unit or building, so it is important 

to understand what they mean – this is 

where things can get tricky. 

For example, let’s say that you own a 

cross lease property that you want to 

sell. You and your co-owners share driveway 

access and some common garages, 

but you have a buyer for your property 

who is only interested if they can knock 

down one of the garages. If the property 

was freehold, where there is one sole 

owner, the new buyer could do what 

they liked (within the limits of the council 

restrictions). However, because it’s 

a cross lease property, the buyer would 

have to get all the other owners to agree 

(and offer their consent in writing). 

Be careful when making enclosed 

additions to a cross-leased property (for 

example, adding an extra room or conservatory). 

Even if you do get the other 

owners’ consent to do it, it will change 

the overall floor plan of the property 

and you will have to have the flats plan 

altered so the change is shown. This will 

cost money, but if you don’t do it the land 

title will not be accurate and this can 

cause problems when you go to sell. 

It strongly recommend engaging a lawyer 

to review the terms of a cross lease 

property. Their first step should be to 

check that any property you are interested 

in matches the one marked on the 

flats plan. They will help you unpick all 

the conditions of a cross lease agreement, 

including finding out what the 

restrictions are and how many other 

owners are involved. A lawyer will also 

be able to advise you if there are particular 

issues with the property you are 

interested in and find out what changes 

have been made by other owners. 

A Land Information Memorandum 

(LIM) will also show you information 

held by the local council about a certain 

property and land. It may be worth 

getting an independent assessment of 

a cross lease property from an inspector 

who has professional indemnity 

insurance and carries out their work in 

line with the New Zealand Standard for 

Residential Property Inspection (NZ S 

4306:2005). 

As always, it’s smart to figure out as 

much as you can about a cross lease 

property at the start of your home-buying 

process rather than after the fact. 

7 Barcote Lane 

Rolleston 


Rolleston 

17 Clausen Ave 

Leeston 

Do you need to sell in 2026? 

Let’s work together and get you and your 

property ready to launch into 2026. 

2 Ealing Lane 

Darfield 

40 Jacks Drive 

West Melton 

26 Hei Hei Road 

Hei Hei 


Rolleston 

162A Avonhead Road 

Avonhead 

3 Ashdown Way 

Rolleston 

Lauryn Stephens 

027 440 5555 

lauryn.stephens@harcourts.co.nz 

Effort | Energy | Integrity 

10 Ruston Lane 

Halswell 

1/108 Buchanans Road 

Hei Hei 

24 Slate Street 

Rolleston 

All SOLD in 2025 

Four Seasons Realty 2017 Ltd | Agent REAA 2008

security system are just a few of the many extras on 

offer with this property. There is a separate standalone 

spacious office/studio that gives options for 

those who require a dedicated work from home space 

or alternatively, room for a dependant relative. 

a short, easy commute into the city or out to Ro leston. 

Karen Hennessy 

Mobile: 027 967 0186 

karen.hennessy@pggwrightson.co.nz 

Week commencing Tuesday, 3Rd ocToBeR 2017 

As always, this builder has finished his latest new build to 

perfection, incorporating a l the ‘must haves’ and more for 

keep cool or warm, as required, at the push of a bu ton with 

2 heat pumps. 

The home’s practical layout also includes a walk-in linen 

room, a substantial separate laundry, a tic storage with 

ladder access and last, but certainly not least, hugely sought 

after 4 car garaging. From the moment you approach this 

www.flemington.co.nz 

Mobile: 027 527 8258 

Mobile: 027 224 4733 

Week commencing WeDneSDAY, 23RD mAY 2018 

Your guide to all things Real Estate 

in the Selwyn District 

15 

Be home security-wise 

this holiday season 

Whether you’re going away for a short 

getaway or a more extended vacation, 

it’s important to ensure your home 

is secure while you’re away. Coming 

back to find that your home has been 

burgled can be incredibly stressful and 

concerning. Here are some tips to help 

reduce the risk. 

Make your home look lived in by 

using smart plugs that can control lights 

or TVs with random on/off cycles. If 

possible, ask a neighbour or a trusted 

person nearby to open and close the 

curtains, water the plants, bring in the 

rubbish bins on collection day, and clear 

your mailbox. Perhaps have someone 

park their car in your driveway. 

Remember to pause regular deliveries 

to prevent them from piling up at your 

door. The ultimate security measure 

would be to have a trusted house sitter. 

Remember to lock up your property, 

including all windows, doors, sheds, and 

garages. Use deadbolts if they are fitted, 

and fit a blocking bar to sliding doors to 

prevent entry. If you have a garage door, 

engage the manual lock or disconnect 

the opener for extra security. Ensure all 

tools are locked away so they can’t be 

used to aid entry. 

To reduce the risk of burglary, 

consider installing an alarm system. 

With Wi-Fi cameras, you can monitor 

your property in real-time, even when 

you’re not at home. There are many 

affordable, easy-to-install smart alarm 

systems available, including doorbell 

cameras, security cameras, motion 

detectors, and voice-command features. 

Avoid the temptation of letting 

everyone know on social media that 

you will be away from your home, and 

don’t leave a message on your voicemail 

saying you’re on holiday. Wait until you 

return to post photos and videos from 

your trip. 

Get to know your neighbours and your 

community. Once you have some trusted 

contacts, let them know you’ll be away 

and ask them to keep an eye on your 

property, or invite them to park their 

car in your driveway. Provide them with 

emergency contact details. 

Protect your valuables and keep 

jewellery, passports, and important 

documents in a safe or with a trusted 

person. It is also a good idea to 

photograph the serial numbers of 

electronics for insurance records. 

Finally, make sure your home and 

contents insurance is up to date and 

suitable for your needs. 

Taking proactive steps to secure your 

home before leaving for a holiday can 

significantly reduce the risk of burglary 

and provide peace of mind. Relax and 

enjoy your break, and come back to 

your home as you left it. 

Selwyn Times 

PUBLiSHeD eVeRY WeDneSDAY 

THe BeST PRoPeRTieS AcRoSS 

THe SeLWYn DiSTRicT 

INSIDE 

Brand new ‘show stopper’ with 4 car garaging 

EVERY WEDNESDAY inside Selwyn Times 

Quality Home, Private Setting, Sought After Location 

A large, quality home sited in a private and established 

5021m 2 park-like setting in the sought after Claremont 

Estate on the boundary of Christchurch City. 

The home features four bedrooms (master with 

en suite and walk-in robe), open-plan kitchen, dining 

and living along with formal dining, lounge and 

conservatory. Great indoor outdoor flow to a large 

sheltered deck set in sprawling lawns and easy care 

gardens with automated watering. Triple car garaging, 

security gates, ducted heating, solar energy and 

Auction (unless sold prior) 

Thursday 19 October, 2pm 

411 Blenheim Road 

www.pggwre.co.nz/DAR26164 

the discerning buyer. Situated on a 1200m 2 section, with 

an established backdrop, the substantial 315m 2 floor plan 

provides the ultimate in family living options. The sunny & 

spacious open plan living room boasts a designer kitchen 

with 90cms oven, stone bench tops & a walk in pantry, 

together with define dining, living & study spaces that 

extend through sliding doors to a large deck & covered ‘al 

fresco’ entertaining area. 

The formal lounge als opens to the landscaped garden 

& has a boxed high stud ceiling with sound speakers. A l 4 

bedrooms are fabulously proportioned queen sized rooms, 

with the master suite providing the perfect parents’ retreat 

featuring an amazing dressing room with fu l wardrobe 

system, additional storage & a beautiful tiled ensuite with 

double tiled shower, freestanding bath & twin vanities. The 

family bathroom is equa ly elegant with a tiled shower & 

twin vanities. Cosy up in front of the log burner, keep your 

toes warm with the under tile heating in the bathrooms & 

DeaDline Sale: 

Closing 4pm on Monday 

11th June 2018 

(unless sold prior) 

rwro leston.co.nz/RLL23148 

Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Ltd 

Licensed (REAA 2008) - West Melton 

Sarah Booth 

Contact: 

Set amongst other quality homes on larger sections, 

this property maintains a semi-rural feel whilst being 

Contact: 

Phone: 03 341 4301 

premium property, you wi l appreciate what a privilege it 

would be to be able to ca l it ‘home’. 

Brendan ‘Big Red’ Shefford 

Contact: 

Address: 19 Devine Drive, Templeton Open Home: Sunday 8 & 15 October, 1pm - 1.45pm 

63 Rossington Drive, West Melton Open Home: Sunday 2.00pm - 2.30pm 

Get your messages into homes throughout 

the Selwyn District. 

Delivered to every home & rural letterbox 

(also available at selected pick up points). 

For full information on placing 

your advertising call: 

Lynette Evans 

Ph 021 222 7831 | email: lynette.evans@starmedia.kiwi 

Get the power 

of three offices 

working for you 

Your section hunt 

starts here 

New Falcon’s Landing sales office open, 17 Branthwaite Drive, Ro leston, 

Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays from 1-3pm. Come, visit and share in our vision 

for Ro leston. Or ca l us anytime 03 741 1340. Email enquiries@yoursection.nz 

Ray White Rolleston, 

Lincoln & West Melton 

Sales - Property Management - Loan Market 

Residential - Lifestyle - Commercial 

Lincoln - 03 325 7299 

Ro leston - 03 347 9988 

West Melton - 03 347 9933 

Town & Lifestyle Real Estate Ltd 

Licensed (REAA 2008) 

Selwyn Times dedicated to getting you outstanding results & making our district a better place to live.

16 

Garages are not all equal 

Not all garages are equal. Smaller 

townhouses may have a single garage 

whereas larger homes are more likely 

to have double, triple or even four-car 

garaging. 

Having more garaging has been more 

popular in recent times. It can add an ‘x’ 

factor leading to a speedier house sale 

and potential for a higher selling price. 

However, how much garage space do 

you really need? 

Before committing to an even larger 

home, take time to consider the purpose 

of your garage. This may avoid the 

situation where one or more vehicles is 

parked up in the driveway due to there 

being no room in the garage after work 

bench, garden equipment, bicycles and 

other items are packed in. 

An outside shed may take out some 

clutter, as will moving on unused possessions, 

with the result that a standard 

double garage may be sufficient. 

While a larger garage will add square 

metres, extra garage space costs less 

than in other areas of a home because 

there are fewer features. 

At planning stage, map out what will 

be stored in the garage. Take account 

of the space needed for motor vehicles, 

bikes, work bench, tools and gardening 

implements, if these will be kept in the 

garage. 

List all the items, measuring each to 

assess how they will fit into the garage. 

Allow space for moving around and getting 

into and out of the cars parked in 

the garage, once bikes, ladders and the 

like are stacked against the walls. 

Attic trusses with a pull down ladder 

could be included; a great way to gain 

extra storage space for less used items. 

Other features that will reduce clutter 

may include built-in shelving and 

storage cupboards, hanging devices like 

hammocks suspended from the roof, and 

bike hooks. These can make a huge difference 

to the spaciousness of this very 

practical part of the house. 

Thinking of the garage doors themselves, 

these can be custom made to fit. 

While two or three single doors may be 

attractive for accessing a larger garage, 

weigh up garage door width and their 

practicality should a larger vehicle need 

to be stored in the garage at any time. 

Including one or more windows will 

allow natural light without the need to 

open the garage door. The glass can be 

frosted for privacy while a glass side 

or back door will provide access to the 

backyard. You might also include a 

garage door through to the backyard. 

Alternatively, a garage, carport, or parking 

space down the side may provide 

storage for a caravan, motorhome or 

boat and access the yard. 

Ensuring sufficient off-street parking 

space out front is also often overlooked 

and worth the investment. 

Garage doors can be custom made to 

fit a particular space. 

Single doors into a larger garage are popular. 

Three and four car garaging is popular. 

Extra garage space costs less than other 

parts of a home. 

THIS WEEKS SELWYN DISTRICT OPEN HOMES 

Wednesday 17th December 

6.00pm – 6.30pm 

Thursday 18th December 

4.00pm – 4.30pm 

5.00pm – 5.30pm 

5.00pm – 5.30pm 

Saturday 20th December 

10.00am – 10.30am 

10.00am – 10.30am 

11.00am – 11.30am 

11.00am – 11.30am 

11.00am – 12.00pm 

11.30am – 12.00pm 

12.00pm – 12.30pm 

12.15pm – 1.15pm 

12.30pm – 1.00pm 

12.45pm – 1.15pm 


Ray White Town & Lifestyle Ltd 



22 – 24 School Road, Tai Tapu 


25 Chris Drive, Rolleston 


8 Edgar Way, Rolleston 


152 Ed Hillary Drive, Rolleston 








4 Foxburrow Lane, Rolleston 

Property Brokers 

29 Reuben Avenue, Rolleston 


48 Waikirikiri Avenue, Lincoln 






Sunday 21st December 

10.00am – 10.30am 

10.45am – 11.15am 

10.45am – 11.15am 

11.00am – 11.30am 

11.00am – 11.30am 

11.30am – 12.00pm 

11.30am – 12.00pm 

11.30am – 12.00pm 

11.30am – 12.00pm 

12.00pm – 12.30pm 





14 Lesser Close, Rolleston 


15 Montague Street, Islington 


18 Liffey Springs Drive, Lincoln 


4 Foxburrow Lane, Rolleston 


48 Waikirikiri Avenue, Lincoln 




17 Amur Crescent, Rolleston 


27 Kinglear Drive, Rolleston 


12.00pm – 12.30pm 

12.30pm – 1.00pm 

12.30pm – 1.00pm 

12.30pm – 1.00pm 

12.30pm – 1.00pm 

12.45pm – 1.15pm 

1.00pm – 1.30pm 

1.45pm – 2.15pm 

2.30pm – 3.00pm 

3.00pm – 3.30pm 

3.45pm – 4.15pm 

Find your 

Perfect 

Home 

in the 

29 Reuben Avenue, Rolleston 


2 Castleton Drive, Rolleston 

Harcourts Four Seasons Realty 

8 Edgar Way, Rolleston 


36 Coach Way, Rolleston 


52 Park Lane, Rolleston 


21/28 James Street, Lincoln 


685 Main South Road, Islington 






22 – 24 School Road, Tai Tapu 


32 Hollows Lane, Rolleston 


1.45pm – 2.15pm 

2.00pm – 2.30pm 



685 Main South Road, Islington 

Ray White Town & Lifestyle Ltd

Selwyn_Times: December 17, 2025

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