Blenheim Sun: February 18, 2026

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February 18, 2026 | LOCAL PEOPLE - LOCAL VIEWS-LOCAL NEWS 

Ph 5779340|91WeldSt, Redwoodtown 

Take off! 

DrPaulDavidsonhascreatedamuseum 

dedicatedtothe Argosy aircraft. 

Photo: PaulaHulburt. 

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Marlborough Sounds -Picton -Koromiko-Tuamarina -Rarangi -Spring Creek -Rapaura-Grovetown -Woodbourne-Renwick-Havelock-Wairau Valley-Seddon

2 

Wednesday February 18, 2026 

Blenheim 

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Follow the Blenheim Sun on 

Marlborough’s favourite read. 

Pitchperfect formarketday 

Singer-songwriters Megan 

Rosene and Ellie Brooke 

from Blenheim kept the 

songs coming asthey performed 

atBlenheim’s CBD 

Summer Market on Friday. 

Free the Girl proved a 

popularedition to theevent, 

whichfeaturedanimpressive 

array ofstall holders selling 

avariety of eye-catching 

goodies. 

The pair were also set to 

perform onthe main stage 

at theMarlborough Food and 

Wine Festival in Renwick 

on Saturday as part of local 

group Better Late Never. 

Photo: PaulaHulburt. 

20 Metre Package Deal: 

Normally $2,579 

incl GST 

Promo Price $2,379 

The 

30 Metre Package Deal: 

Normally $2,679 

incl GST 

Promo Price $2,479

The Blenheim 

Flight of fancy now a 

dream come true 

By PaulaHulburt 

To aroomfullofwarmsmilesand 

heartfelt applause, Marlborough’s 

newest heritage attraction was 

officially opened. 

Behind theimpressiveheftofthe 

Argosy airplane at The Runway 

Café in Woodbourne the Argosy 

Museum sits tucked away in 

tribute. 

However, if it weren’tfor catchinganews 

report on TV more than 

three decades ago, museum and 

Argosy ownerDrPaulDavidson, 

said he may never have seen the 

opportunity. 

“If I’d had abeer at the pub 

insteadofgoing home to watchthe 

news andJudyBailey, it mightnot 

have happened. 

“She said Safe Airwas goingout 

of business andIthoughthow that 

would make aninteresting Kiwi 

documentary.” 

His acclaimed television documentary, 

TheFinal Flight,toldof 

thepioneeringairline’s flyingdays. 

When he heardthe Argosy aircraft 

was destined tobescrapped, Paul 

steppedupand savedit. 

“Saving the Argosy was like 

saving awhale andthenitbecame 

awhale of aproblem. Ithad to be 

in Marlborough, so we movedhere 

and feel really embedded inthe 

community. 

“It’s taken 35 years since then” 

says Paul,“butitisimportant that 

theSafestory notbeforgotten.The 

new museum will help maintain 

that legacy. 

Councillor Gerald Hope officially 

declared theArgosyMuseumopen, 

paying tributetoPauland allthose 

whohad helped make it areality. 

The museum’s displays are a 

testament toyears of hard work, 

and adetermination topreserve 

localhistory,hesaid. 

Former Safe Airpilots, engineers, 

general managers, friends and 

colleagues employed by theairline 

gathered forthe specialoccasion. 

Among the attendees was Jon 

Torgersen, whosepilot father Helge 

was killed when his Safe Bristol 

aircraft crashedontoRussley Golf 

Course in 1957. 

Jon was an 11-year-old pupil at 

Renwick School when helost his 

dad. He describedbeing therefor 

themuseum’sopening as themost 

emotionalday of hislife. 

OtherguestsincludedpilotsSteve 

Howard and Allan Graham, who 

flew the final flights of Safe’s two 

Argosies, and brothers Tim and 

SimonLynskey,sonsofthe late Des 

Lynskey who was the company’s 

longestserving generalmanager. 

Timsayshis dadwas dedicatedto 

the welfare of all inthe company. 

“I know that were he able to visit 

thenew museum he wouldbevery 

proud,”hesaid. 

Themuseumiscurrently opening 

forlimited periodswhich Paul says 

will soon be extended as resources 

andstaffare putintoplace. 

Councillor Gerald Hope officiallyopenedthe Argosy Museum as 

Dr Paul Davidson looked on. Photo: VaughanScott/Supplied. 

Wednesday February 18, 2026 3 

inbrief 

The Sun 

Wood stolen 

Aquantity offirewood has been 

taken from the Seddon Lions storage 

area. Intended tohelp support 

elderly members of the community, 

the missing wood means members 

will have to make up the shortfall. 

People keen to help can email 

seddonlionsclub@gmail.com to find 

outmore. 

Lottowinner 

Someonewho bought aLotto ticket 

atPak’nSaveBlenheimis$11,108better 

off after winning Second Division 

alongside27other luckyLotto players 

onSaturday.Lottoisadvisingpeopleto 

checktheir ticketscarefully. 

Newdatefor beachdig 

The Ray White and More FM beach 

dig will goahead on the new date of 

March29afterhavingtobepostponed 

forinfrastructure works. Join in thefun 

from 10am forfun,games andprizes, 

plus the chance to win a$500 Prezzy 

Card thanks toRay White Complete 

Property Management. Other 

attractions include the MTF Finance 

Big Dig, the Flooring Extra Little Dig, 

the Versatile Sandcastle Competition, 

BP ComputersClosest to theFlag, and 

theDaylightTrainingClubTug of War. 

Everylifematters 

Maataa Waka Ki Te Tau Ihu have 

announcedthedateforthisyear’sMauri 

Ora Hīkoi along the Taylor River. The 

suicideawarenesswalk will be held on 

FridayMarch27,startingfromSeymour 

Square.Moredetails andregistrations 

open soon. 

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4 


inbrief 


Flexingour mussels 

Havelock Mussel &Seafood Festival 

is set for March 14. Get ready for 

Shapeshifter andmorelive, celebrity 

chef Michael Van deElzen and 

Ganesh Raj, feast onworld-famous 

Greenshell mussels, enjoy top-tier 

entertainment, and soak upthe 

festival vibes. With VIP experiences 

and hands-on demos. Tickets are 

available through www.eventfinda. 

co.nz 

Floodwatch website 

Marlborough District Council’s 

Floodwatch website has been 

upgraded.The mapdisplayscurrent 

rainfall, river flow and river level 

data from monitoring sites around 

Marlborough.“Thenew platform has 

thesamefamiliargraphs andlay out 

butitwillperform better -particularly 

on mobile devices -and has some 

enhanced features,” said Stacey 

Young, Council Chief Information 

Officer. Find out more at www. 

marlborough.govt.nz/services/rivermanagement/flood-information/ 

floodwatch 

Hospicehelp 

FarmersBlenheimraised$10,767 for 

Hospice Marlborough through last 

year’s Christmas bauble campaign. 

This was the 12th year of Farmers’ 

national partnership. Every dollar 

raised comesdirectlybacktoHospice 

Marlborough, supporting care forthe 

localcommunity. 

Sounds warningover 

algalblooms 

Public concern over large algal 

blooms has prompted awarning 

from Counciloverswimmingand 

eating shellfish. 

Marlborough District Council’s 

Coastal Science and Freshwater 

teams have received numerous 

requests for information from the 

community about algal blooms 

overthe past fewweeks. 

Themicroscopic algaeand planktonare 

common at this time of year, 

especially with warmtemperatures. 

Senior Coastal Scientist Katie 

Littlewood said the marine algal 

blooms were generallyharmless. 

“We’ve had aparticularly warm 

and wet summer which has provided 

perfect conditions for algal 

blooms, especially in theMarlborough 

Sounds,” shesaid. 

“Warmer water enables algae to 

grow faster, while heavy rainfall 

washes nutrientsfromthe land into 

rivers andcoastal areas. 

“Calm conditions insheltered 

bays andinletsallowsalgae to build 

up at the surface, which makes 

blooms more visible and longer 

lasting.” 

Katiedid howeverwarnthatlarge 

blooms canaffect waterquality and 

placestressonmarinelifeasthey 

break down. 

“Any bloom carries arisk for 

human health, however, Council’s 


TheCoastalScienceteamcollectswatersamplesatToreaBayintheMarlboroughSounds.Photo: Supplied. 

water quality monitoring shows 

this is aspecies called Noctoluca 

scintillans which is generally 

harmless. 

“However, werecommend not 

swimming directly in it, eating 

shellfish from that area, and keep 

your dogout of thewater. 

“On anexciting note, Noctoluca 

iscommonly bioluminescent 

and produces ashimmering blue 

light when disturbed -socheck 

it out atnight and prepare to be 

amazed!” 

Algal blooms are monitored by 

theMinistryfor PrimaryIndustries 

and people should check their 

website for up-to-date warnings 

and further information. Youcan 

also sign up for email updates 

aboutshellfishbiotoxinwarnings. 

Go to: www.mpi.govt.nz/fishing-aquaculture/recreational-fishing/where-unsafe-to-collect-shellfish 

Conversely, with the recent 

rainfall there iscurrently very 

little toxicalgae in Marlborough’s 

rivers,but this couldchangeifthe 

weather isconsistently warm and 

sunny. Here the most common 

freshwater toxic algae are Microcoleus*, 

which form dark brown 

mats growingonrocks in theriver 

bed, usuallyinfast-flowing water. 

When thealgae mats become very 

thick they detach and float in the 

water, accumulating along the 

edges ofthe river. This is when 

they present the greatest risk to 

recreational usersand dogs. 

Further information, including 

images of freshwater toxic algae, 

is available at: www.marlborough.govt.nz/recreation/swimming-and-boating/toxic-algae 

*Previouslyknown as Phormidium. 

Beachwalks within reach 

Graham movedtothe coast 

forthe beach lifestyle. At 68, 

theretired builder hadtradedhis 

suburbanhomefor abeachfront 

property, dreamingofdaily walks 

along thesand, hearingthe waves 

at night. 

“I’d movedherefor this,” 

Graham says,gesturing at the 

sweepingcoastline. “But Iwas 

barely managing one shortwalk 

aweek.” 

Hiswifefaced similar 

challenges. They’d bothhead 

out together,but neither could 

enjoythe beach properly. Their 

dream retirementwas looking 

very differentfromwhatthey’d 

imagined, allthanks to aging 

knees that didn’tcooperate. 

“Wenever talked about it,” he 

recalls.“Just acceptedthatthis 

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otherpeoplewalkbywith ease 

andenjoy what we couldn’t.” 

Theturning point camewhen 

Graham stumbled acrossanarticle 

about Koru FX,aNewZealandmade 

naturalcream that’s become 

popular in local pharmacies. 

“I wassceptical that acream 

couldtakethe edge offaknee. I 

know they absorb but Iwasn’ta 

real believerinthatsortofstuff,” 

Graham admits.“Ikeptthinking 

about allthe lifeIwasmissing 

while Idebated trying it.” 

What convinced himwas 

learning it wasmadelocally with 

naturalingredients. Thecream’s 

blendof16natural compounds 

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Threedaysafter ordering, 

Graham startedhis newroutine. 

“The first thingInoticed was 

how differentitfeltfromyour 

traditionalgels,”hesays. “It 

absorbed quicklywith this pleasant 

peppermintscent.Within minutes, 

therewas this deep warming 

followed by coolingthatlasted 

ages.Inoticed it workingreally 

quickly.” 

Within afew weeks, Graham’s 

beach walkshad become reality. 

Hiswifejoinedhim on thesame 

routine, andnow they’re exploring 

stretchesofcoastlinethey’donly 

admired fromafar. 

“Itwas just enough to take the 

edge off. Andoncethathappened, 

you startmoving again. It’s 

themovement that makesthe 

difference, but this helpsyou do it.” 

Word travelsfast. Graham’s 

increased pace hasn’t gone 

unnoticed. 

“TomorrowI’m drivingwith 

bottlesfor afriend,” Graham 

laughs.“Shecalledyesterday 

complainingabout herjoints. I 

know exactly how shefeels.” 

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He’s become somethingofa 

local advocate, sharinghis Koru 

FX with neighboursand friends. 

“The irony isn’tlostonme–the 

guy whowouldn’ttouch‘natural 

products’isnow tellingeveryone 

about it.” 

Graham’s morningroutineis 

simple now:aquick application 

with breakfast before headingout 

forhis daily adventure. 

“All thosemonths of being 

cynical while theanswerwas right 

there,”hereflects. “I kick myself 

forwaitingsolong. This retirement 

looks nothing likethosefirst 

months here,and I’m grateful for 

that.” 

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Livesindangerasrescue 

tug pulled fromservice 

Hundreds of livescould potentially 

be in danger as adedicated 

emergency rescue tugboat is 

pulled from service. 

Cook Strait rescue capability 

has been compromised as the 

contract for open-ocean tugboat 

MMAVisionisscrapped. 

Marlborough Mayor Nadine 

Taylor and Greater Wellington 

Regional Council Chair Daran 

Ponter have warned the move 

posed“unacceptable risks.” 

Both arecalling forthe government 

to act, writing toMinister 

of TransportChris Bishop urging 

himtorethink theplan. 

“Cancelling the MMAVision 

contract puts livesand economic 

lifelines inperil,” Councillor 

Ponter said. 

Each year, Cook Strait ferries 

sail over amillion passengers, 

and freight worth $14 billion 

betweenNorth andSouth Island 

markets. 

Half amillion cruise ship passengers, 

as well as hundreds of 

commercial vessels and fishing 

boats also pass through Cook 

Strait annually. 

Cabinetpapersshowthe rescue 

of large vessels in Cook Strait 

will be resolved from February 

by “relying on commercially 

available vessels to provide 

towing responses ifrequired, 

TheAratere ran agroundin2023nearPictonprompting an emergencyresponse. Photo: File 

noting thesemight notalwaysbe 

availableinNew Zealandwaters”. 

“FromJuly, theclosest ship that 

can tow large vessels stricken in 

Cook Strait will be 1200 nautical 

miles away,” Councillor 

Ponter says. “That’s about five 

days of travel time.” 

In aletter tothe Minister of 

Transport, Concillor Ponter and 

MayorTaylorcalledfor an extension 

of theMMA Vision contract 

until anequivalent vessel can be 

commissioned more affordably. 

“Until then, werely onanageing 

fleet offerries, plagued by 

awell-documented history of 

breakdowns to carry thousands 

of New Zealanders and visitors 

between the North and South 

islands,”Mayor Taylor says. 

Sheadded theCookStraitisone 

of the most complex stretches of 

waterinthe worldtonavigate. 

“There have been multiple nearmiss 

incidentsinCookStraitover 

thepastfive years. 

“We urge the government to 

maintain enhanced emergencyresponse 

capability in this beautiful 

yettreacherous stretchofsea at the 

heartofour country.” 

“And new ferries are not immune 

to disaster,” says Cr Ponter. 

“The Wahine wasonlytwo years 

oldwhenitcapsizedand sank in 

themouth of Wellington Harbour 

–withthe loss of 53 lives.” 

“Wecannotdependonharbour 

tugs foropen-oceanrescues.They 

are not designed, equipped or 

crewed for towing large vessels 

in Cook Strait –where conditions 

are frequently beyond their 

operatingparameters.” 


inbrief 


Food recall 

Batches ofMilo Dipped Snack Bar 

are being recalled over fears they may 

containrubberpieces.“Theconcernwith 

this productisthatrubberpiecescould 

causechoking,”saysactingNewZealand 

Food Safety deputy director-general 

JennyBishop.Batchnumbers5316,5317, 

and5318TD15and abest-before date of 

August 2026 should notbeeaten. 

Wastenot… 

AllMarlborough wastefacilities–apart 

from remote transfer stations -will, in 

future,beclosedonNew Year’s Dayand 

AnzacDay.Thisincludesstaffedtransfer 

stations in Blenheim, Picton, Havelock, 

Rai Valley, Seddon and Wairau Valley, 

the Recycling Centre, Hazardous Waste 

Centre, Dump Shop and Bluegums 

Landfill.SolidWasteManagerMarkLucas 

hadearlieroutlinedconcernsaroundstaff 

well-being andwork-life balance. 

Ratescap 

The Marlborough District Council 

hasurged theGovernmenttoconsider 

the risks of capping rates rises. The 

Government proposed capping rates 

risesatbetween 2% and4%, by tying 

them to inflation and GDP growth. 

Marlborough’s 2025 rates increase 

was 8.61%. Council chief financial 

officerGeoffBlake told councillorsthe 

cap could worsen the council’s credit 

ratingsand interest ratesonloans,and 

it couldreducethe region’s fundingfor 

infrastructure, government mandates 

andemergency responses. 

SummersetBlenheim 

Thursday Open Days 

Summerset Blenheim isagrowingvillage with avibrant community.Weare thrilled to sharethat our fantastic 

amenities in our village centrewill beopeningthis year forresidents to enjoy. 

We knowthat moving to aretirement village isabig decision. So whynot comealong to our Open Days any 

ThursdayinFebruary, andsee foryourselfwhy our residents love the Summerset life. 

Love the lifeyou choose. 

Open Days 

EveryThursdayinFebruary, 10am -2pm 

Summerset Blenheim 

183 Old Renwick Road, Springlands 

03 520 6042 |summerset.co.nz/blenheim 

Homessold underlicence to occupy,subject to availability.Summerset doesnot offer rental accommodation. 

SUM9267_HP

6 



Mutual harmony leads to 

milestone marriage 


It beganwithamusiclesson, an accordion 

andatune whichinturnled to weddingbells. 

Blenheim couple Pamand TerryPrice will 

mark their 60 th wedding anniversary on 26 

February,justone dayafter Pamhas her80 th 

birthday. 

As they prepare tomark the day with an 

afternoon tea for sixty family and friends, 

they look forward tosharing some special 

memories too. 

It was alove of music which saw the pair 

meet.Terry,askilledmusicianwithhis own 

dance band, was approached byPam’s dad 

to recommendsomeone to give hisdaughter 

some accordionlessons. 

Then aged 16-years-old,Pam explains she 

fell forTerry’s “livelysense of humour.” 

“He’sadelight,”she smiles.“Life wasnever 

too serious or boring. Ifwewere having 

problems with anything he’d crack ajoke 

andlighten themood.” 

Thecoupleshare aclose bond.While Terry 

suffered astroke in 2017 which left him 

non-verbal,the devotedpairstill communicate 

well withoutwords. 

Sixdecades of shared life meanstheyread 

each otherwell. 

While Terry, 94, now lives in the Care 

Facility of Redwood Retirement Village, 

Pamstays closebyinthe couple’s villawithin 

thegrounds. 

“Westill do alot together,” Pamsays. 

MarriedatStMary’sChurchinBlenheim, 

Pamand Terryaccompany each otheronthe accordionand theorgan as they have done 

many timesoverthe years. Photo: PaulaHulburt. 

the newlyweds were treated toasurprise 

guard ofhonor by fellow bagpipe players. 

“There were so many people at thewedding 

and somuch traffic that they [the police] 

had tocome and cover Maxwell Road,” 

Pamlaughs. 

“Steppingout of thechurchand seeing so 

many people wasveryemotional.” 

Amotorbike mechanic by trade, Terrylost 

thetop of hismorefinger in amechanicalaccident 

when he was14-yearsold.The injury 

howeverdidn’tholdhim back from learning 

to play theorgan,bagpipesand accordion. 

Histalents andcommitmenttomusic saw 

him awarded both aMarlborough Council 

CivicAward followed by aQueensService 

Medalin1990. 

Through the highs and lows over alife 

shared,there have been joys andsadness. 

They have much to be thankful for, Pam 

Pamand TerryPrice on theirwedding at St 

Mary’s Church in Blenheim almost60years 

ago. Photo: Supplied. 

says. “Our highlights are of course our 

two boys, Greg and Murray, and our five 

grandchildren, Kimberly,Ollie,Riley,Brody 

andZara. 

‘It seems to have passed by so quickly. I 

think[we’velasted] becausewenever really 

argue. We canhaveadifferenceofopinion, 

butwenever argue. 

“Terry said that if we ever did, it’d be a 

cracker.” 

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Changesset for 

controversial 

cyclelane 

Eltham Road is abusy thoroughfare for 

students. Photo: PaulaHulburt. 


Acycle lane causing congestion and 

parking problems onabusy Blenheim 

road is set for arevamp. 

Blenheim’s Eltham Road cycle lane 

received mixed reviews since itwas 

created in2017. 

Now Marlborough Roads plan to 

scrap the raised concrete separators, 

possibly returning roadside parking in 

the process. 

Marlborough Roads System Manager 

Wayne Oldfield said the move would 

also help encourage cyclists touse the 

Taylor RiverReserve. 

“There have been mixed views from 

cyclists using it. 

“We have also received community 

concerns aboutthe loss of some parking 

and property access since it was established,althoughthe 

original aimwas to 

retain as much parking aspracticable.” 

Thebusyroadisapopulartransit route 

for students heading to both Bohally 

Intermediate School and Marlborough 

Girls’ College. Ensuring students hada 

safe route was key, Wayne said. 

Blenheim Playcentre and Whitney 

Street School have entrancesonEltham 

Road. 

Whitney Street School 

Principal Christie Dalzell 

welcomed the announcement. 

“It’s great to see a 

solution that works 

forthe wholecommunity 

whilekeeping the 

commute tokura safe 

for students and their 

whānau. 

“Moving toasimpler, 

painted layout 

just makes sense and it 

keeps the road flowing 

foreveryone. 

“We’re really pleased 

that the feedback about 

congestion has been taken 

on board while still keeping 

theoptionfor cyclingavailable. 

“Whether thekidsare walking, 

scootering, biking, or taking the 

Taylor River pathway, wejust want 

them to feel safe andconfidentontheir 

way toand from school.” 

The alterations will be funded within 

MarlboroughRoads currentbudgetand 

work couldget underway as earlyasthis 

Easter once designs are confirmed and 

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Sun readershavetheir say... with theWORDonthe Street. 

Forthe past twoyears,atBlenheimrailway station, communitymembers have 

gathered everySaturdayinsolidaritywithPalestinians. AimeePayne askedthem 

“Whatisone thingyou wish people understood 

aboutthisissue?” 

BrendaSuleiman 

Iwantfreedom andjustice forthe 

Palestinians. 

Broughttoyou by... 

Debbie Webster 

Franchise Owner Blenheim 

Ruda Suleiman 

Peace and the end of 78 years of 

apartheid andoccupationofPalestine! 

Jaimee Perrett 

I wish people understood that 

aPalestinian parent loves their 

childrenjustasmuchasyou love 

yours. We would stand here for 

your children too. Their lives are 

equallyasvaluableasours. 

NevilleSutherland 

TheMiddleEastconflict stemsfrom 

disputed land claims shaped by 

Western-backed statehood, ongoing 

U.S. support for Israel, Palestinian 

dispossession, cycles of retaliation, 

andunresolvedhistoricalgrievances 

that echo widercoloniallegacies,includingour 

owninNew Zealand. 

To sell what you love, talk to someone 

who loves where you live. 

PeterMathyssen 

Israel wants Palestinian lands. I 

wish Israel supporters informed 

themselves of thefacts andrealise 

Palestinians areNOT theterrorists. 

Raine &Horne New Zealand PTY Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 

news tips 

Send your tips to 

news@blenheimsun.co.nz 

Amessage to our 

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readers 

Please 

support our 

advertisers, 

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August 6, 2025 | LOCAL PEOPLE-LOCAL VIEWS-LOCAL NEWS 

Marlborough Sounds - Picton - Koromiko -Tuamarina - Rarangi - Spring Creek -Rapaura - Grovetown - Woodbourne - Renwick - Havelock - WairauValley -Seddon 

sun weather Today 2-15 Thursday 8-15 Friday 6-14 Saturday 6-12 

Supermarket sweep! 

Your LocalManufacturingJeweller 

Jewe lery Repairs • Ring Sizing • Rhodium Plating 

Custom Makes • Remake • Re-Design 

WatchBatteries • WatchStraps • Engraving 

91 Weld St,Redw odtown|info@gmwjewe lery.co.nz |5 7 9340|(FB)/GMWJewe lery |gmwjewe lery.co.nz 

Phone us : 035777 868 

From left, Wiliam Hawker, Evalyn 

Hawker, Witherlea School Acting Principal 

KateDeane,New World Blenheim 

owner, operator Tineke Powe l, Theo 

Sheard and Rose Powe l ar excited 

aboutthe upcomingraffle. 

LOCAL PEOPLE - LOCAL VIEWS-LOCAL NEWS 

Letters 

Letters onissues ofcommunity 

interest are welcomed. Amaximum 

of 150words please. 

They must be signed and astreet 

address provided toshow good 

faith, even when anom de plume is 

provided forpublication. 

The editor reserves the right to 

Inhumane humans 

DearEd 

Neville Sutherland’s letter of4.02.26 

drawsattention to factswhich surely point 

to theinevitability of an overthrowofinhumane 

humans as mastersofthe biosphere. 

When wordslike“ceasefire”and “truce” 

become without meaning, silicon cannot 

fail shortlytooutthinkcarbon. 

AI rightnow represents ArtificialINGE- 

NUITY; ourneck-topcalculators andtheir 

ninety billionneurons arewellonthe way 

to being superceded byaneven greater 

mass of interconnected microchips which 

will then constitute INTELLIGENCE. 

Trillionaire Big Daddy Musk will continuetoapply 

that unimaginable wealth to 

to the editor 

abridgeletters or withhold lettersfrom 

publication. 

Email them tonews@blenheimsun. 

co.nz orpresent to our office at 72 

High St. 

Please note that your name and 

street address MUST beprovided 

with emails. 

empowering AI right tothe instant when 

it disempowershim. 

In the meantime, Iponder the fact that 

the daily increasing power and influence 

of China, if it should happen to become 

dominant in lil’ ol’Godzone,would at least 

putanend to sick-makingepisodeslikethat 

showbusiness parole hearinglastweek. 

The creature who inflicted more than 

twenty knife wounds onapoor girl, and 

on whom we lavish more than ahundred 

thousand dollarsayear of ourtaxes in food, 

shelter and entertainment, is set tostar in 

arepeatlegalistin, wait forit.......lessthan 

twoyears. 

Chineselaw wouldhavemadethe crea- 

Slow progress on SH1 

Dear Ed 

Picton andBlenheimlocalsare left wondering 

atthe slow progress of maintenance on 

SH1between Spring Creekand Tuamarinaon 

such an importantpartofthe highwayused 

daily, by ferrygoers. 

Whilst the contractor seems to be doing a 

good jobofbuildingupthe road foundation, 

why are they only working, on weekdays 

only, between 8am and 4.30pm, where 

one lane isclosed and delays can bequite 

significant?Yet afterknockingofftime, the 

two lanes, atthe side of the roadworks are 

opened when trafficisless! 

Surely, onsuch animportant and busy 

highway, either the work should continue 

until dusk, or done at night causing far less 

disruption. 

I’msurewe’dall like to know thereasonbehind 

thelogic of thecurrent operatingtimes. 

ChrisDavies 

Picton 

ture an organdonor andacorpse;plain common 

sense, so absent in oursociety. 

Oh,and TrumpissimplyaHollywoodversion 

of Putin, eh. 

Yoursfaithfully 

Bill Holvey 

Arthur 

Jo Lorraine Debby 

GREAT HAIR DOESN’T 

HAPPEN BY CHANCE, 

IT HAPPENS BY 

APPOINTMENT. 

BOOK 

NOW: 

Txt - 027 437 0671 

CALL - 03 5795470



Golden Lea reaches the end of her sailing days 

The abandoned and derelict 

fishing boat Golden Leahas been 

safely disposed of. 

The Scottish-built boat ran 

aground in the MahakipawaArm in 

Pelorus Sound in Octoberlast year 

after dragging anchor in strong 

winds. 

Marlborough Harbourmaster 

Captain JakeOliver declared the 

Golden Leaawreck, and ordered 

the owner remove it by Monday, 

November 3. He didn’t and the 

Golden Leawas subsequently 

refloated by salvage teams and 

successfully towed to Havelock 

where she was beached. 

She has since been taken apart 

and disposed of with little able to 

be salvaged. During her recovery 

and disposal operation the Golden 

Leawas monitored to ensure there 

were no environmental concerns. 

Built in Scotland in the 1940s, 

the Golden Leasailed to New 

Zealand in the 1960s andbecame 

acommercial oyster dredging boat 

in Southland for many years. 

Disposing of the boat was alastditch 

measure for the harbours 

team, Mr Oliversaid. 

“She had previously been subject 

to two abatement notices for 

staying in the same location 

for over60consecutive days, 

abreach of the Marlborough 

Environment Plan. Another 

abatement notice wasissued in 

October by the Council’sConsents 

and Compliance Team in relation 

to the vessel’sunconsented 

occupation of the coastal marine 

zone.” 

When the owner did not 

relocate the vessel himself,the 

Harbourmaster exercised his right 

to do so. 

Council had the abilitytorecover 

the costs of disposal from the 

owners. 

Theremains of thefishingboat Golden Lea being loaded ontoatruck in Havelock 

New citizens welcomed 

Twenty-four people from 11 

countries have been welcomedto 

Marlborough. 

At acitizenship ceremony held in 

Council chambers recently,new 

citizens from the United Kingdom, 

Australia, Thailand, USA, Indonesia, 

Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Philippines, 

South Africa, Argentina and Chile 

became citizens. 

MayorNadine Taylor withMarlborough’s newestcitizens 

Mayor Nadine Taylor told the group 

the day was an important milestone 

in their new lives as citizens of this 

province and country. 

In future theywould allenjoy the 

rights and freedoms of native-born 

New Zealanders. 

“Your decision to apply for citizenship 

was no doubt madeafter very careful 

consideration and is acommitment 

to your future,” shesaid.“It is not a 

rejection of your past butinfuture 

your firstloyaltywill be to New 

Zealand.” 

Following the Mayor’sopening 

addressand the presentation of 

certificates,Council’swaiatagroup 

performed for the new citizens and 

their friendsand families. 

Rates rebate 

for low-income 

earners 

The rates rebate scheme provides 

arefund for low-income earners 

who are paying rates for the home 

they are living in. Applications are 

now open for the rating year 1July 

2025 to 30 June 2026. 

The income thresholdtobe 

eligible for the maximum rebate for 

SuperGold cardholders and their 

households is $45,000. 

For non-SuperGold cardholders 

and their households it is $32,210. 

Those with ahigher level of 

income may also be entitled to 

apartial rebate.The maximum 

rebate is $805. 

To apply,itisimportant people 

have the right information. 

Applicants need to provide proof 

of income from Inland Revenue for 

the financial year 1April 2024 to 31 

March 2025 and their SuperGold 

card if applicable. 

Applications can be lodged at 

Council’sCustomer Service 

Centres in Blenheim and Picton 

or online www.marlborough.govt. 

nz/services/rates/rates-rebate.Car 

parks for mobility permitholders 

are located at the rear of the 

Blenheim Council building. 

Applications for the 2025/26 year 

close on 30 June 2026.

10 


one on one 

with the Sun 


Forthe childrenatthe Good Foundation School,the newbuild is more than just aplace to learn, it’s acommunity. Photo: Supplied. 

Aschool with heart 

Theirsmilesare wide,neatorangeshirts, 

blue shorts and pinafores as bright as the 

futuresthey hope for. 

Thechildrenproudly standinthe centre 

of what will be theirnew school,the heavy 

leaves of atall palm dip overhead against 

ablue cloud-scudded sky. 

The foundations and concrete walls at 

what will be theGood Foundation School 

in Tetrem, Ghana, sit nearby. The new 

roof will hopefully follow later this year. 

Nearby sits the old school, its iron roof a 

rustycover over planks of wood.Its floors 

acarpetofdustwhich turnstomud when 

the rains come. 

Almost 16,500kmsawayinPicton, teacher 

Jaimee Perrettisalsothinkingabout the 

school.She pictures thevillage’s children, 

theirexcitementoverthe newbuildingand 

theirgratitude forany help given. 

Names run through her heads asshe 

envisages the friends she has made, the 

laughter shehas shared,along with hospitality 

so generously given. 

It all started with asuggestion from a 

friend, Jaimee explainswith asmile. 

“The idea for the Good Foundation 

School (GFS)rebuild came from my friend 

Bernardo on my third visit to Ghana, 

“WewereflatmatesinLondonatthe time 

when Iwas due tohead back toGhana to 

visit. At the time Iwas selling bracelets 

andpaintings done by thechildrenatGFS 

to fundraise for new school furniture, 

librarybooks,and whiteboardstoreplace 

theirchalkboards. 

“When Iwas inGhana he called me up 

andsuggested we rebuildthe wholeschool 

because he’d heard so many stories about 

it and seen photos. 

“I was hesitant, but hewas very encouragingand 

said we coulddoit. Sure enough, 

with his skills, our group of friends, and 

my passion weraised over 35k and managed 

to begin the rebuild in2020. 

We erected the walls for 12 classrooms 

butnever gotthe roof on becauseofclosed 

borders.” 

Alongside two friends, Grace Aitken 

and Kelsie Small, Jaimee, who runs the 

NZ-based charity Choose Love Ghana, 

will return to Tetrem in June. Her threeyear-old 

daughter Marli will again be by 

herside. 

The school and family in Ghana issuch 

abig part of theirlives, Jaimee explains. 

“I washesitant, buthe 

wasveryencouraging 

andsaidwecould do it” 

“I am very lucky tohave such acruisey 

little girl who loves coming along for 

the adventures and ‘helping’ with our 

fundraisers-she’smygreatestcheerleader. 

“We went in2024 toreconnect with 

the people inTetrem, reassess the school 

situation, and introduce Marli tomy 

‘family’ there. She loved it! 

“The experience wasmorethanIcould’ve 

ever imagined.She wassocomfortable and 

confident. One morning she followed the 

kids to school andfound herselfadesk and 

joined their lessons learning the alphabet 

through songs and dancing with the other 

kids.I’m so excitedtotakeher thereagain 

andsoisshe.” 

Ateacher at LinkwaterSchool, Jaimee has 

been friendswithmaritimeOfficer/Skipper 

Kelsie forabout sixyears.The pair forged a 

bond when Jaimee taught Kelsie’s nephew. 

Graphic designer Grace is afriend from 

childhood. “I’ve known Grace since we 

were kids, she is best friends with my 

sister,” Jaimee says. 

Both the school and wider community 

have been very supportive of theupcoming 

project. “I’m hoping to setthe kids up with 

apen pal atGFS and create lifetime connections 

betweenhereand there. 

By her side, anotebook isfilled with the 

jottings of middle-of-the-night sums. The 

projectdepends entirely on raisingenough 

money. Together, the trio have organised 

local fundraisers and set up aGivealittle 

Page. 

BOOK FAIR 

SATURDAY &SUNDAY 

21st –22nd February 2026 

9am -3pm 

Alzheimers Centre 

8Wither Road, Blenheim 

DONATIONS OF GOOD QUALITY BOOKS/PUZZLES/ 

CD’S &DVD’S WILL BE GREATLY APPRECIATED 

Enquires to: 03577 6172



From Left:Friends GraceAitken,JaimeePerrett andKelsieSmall hope to seeanew roof 

finallyinplace at theGoodFoundationSchool. Photo: Supplied. 

Everyone waskeentolendahand,with one 

student happilycarryingeachblock oneata 

time. Photo: Supplied. 

RIGHT: Despite the hard work, everyone 

seemed happy to help, knowing the new 

school wouldimprove alot of lives. 

Photo: Supplied. 

Ensuring this eagerlyawaited last step happens,isabigresponsibilityJaimeeexplains. 

Nearly 400 students are eagerly awaiting 

the big day when the school is finally finished. 

Instead ofthe ramshackle shed-like 

school they have been using, there will be 

12 classrooms for children age from twoyears-oldto16years 

old. 

The completion ofthe project will bea 

milestonemuchcelebrated, Jaimee says.The 

school is so much more than simply aplace 

tolearn,itisthe heartofthe communitytoo. 

“Some ofushave talked about putting 

together our own money ifwecan’t fundraise 

enough -we are soeager to see this 

rebuild through to the end after somany 

yearswaiting. 

“The parent communityare very involved 

and want the very best for their children’s 

education. It was all hands ondeck when 

we putthe wallsupin2020. It will mean the 

worldtothe families in Tetrem to have this 

rebuild finally done.” 

Afundraising quiz night atOxley’s bar 

andKitchen will be held in March, araffle 

in Apriland in Maythe online fundraising 

willend. 

“I thinkthose whochoosetosupport this 

project would be those who believe inour 

vision and inhelping deserving children 

andfamiliesthatmay nototherwise getthis 

opportunity. 

It’s something kiwis are good at. It’s 

about supporting what you believe inand 

spreadingthe love farand wide. 

Todonatevisit www.//givealittle.co.nz/org/ 

choose-love-ghana-trustorfollowthe team 

@chooseloveghanatostayupdated. 

“The parent community 

areveryinvolvedand 

want theverybest 

fortheir children’s 

education.” 

Building thenew school is acommunity 

projectwithstudents,theirfamilies,and 

the community all pitching in. Photo: 

Supplied. 

NZ Agricultureand theNZ 

Economy: What’s happening 

and what’s next? 

Thecurrent school is 20 yearsold andwas only ever supposed to be temporary. 


ForsythBarrinvites youtoa 

complimentaryinvestmentseminar 

presentedbyMatt Montgomerie. 

MattisaSeniorEquity Analyst with research 

coverage of the Food, Beverages, Agriculture, 

andHealthcare sectors. 

In this seminar, Mattwill explore the current 

state ofNew Zealand’s agriculture sectorand 

howitfits within the broader NZ economic 

outlook. He will discuss key themes shaping the 

sectorand the economy—and what this means 

forinvestment decisions, and long-term strategy. 

MattMontgomerie 

Senior Analyst, Equities 

Theseminar will include aquestion and answersession and light refreshments. 

Formoredetails andtoregistervisit: forsythbarr.co.nz/seminars 

Wednesday, 11 March2026 

5.15pm -7.30pm 

ASBTheatre Whitehaven 

Wine Room,2Hutcheson St, 

Mayfield, Blenheim. 

SEM7691-02- (BLEN) -January 2026 

(03) 921 5020 forsythbarr.co.nz

12 Wednesday February 18, 2026 


Marlborough music guide launch 

Apackedlineupofmusic events over 

FebruaryandMarch is callingMarlburianstoget 

out, buytickets andsupport 

theregion’ssummermusic scene. 

Council’sEvents&CommunityPartnerships 

Manager Samantha Young 

said thereissomething foreveryone. 

“Alongside our major staple events 

like the Havelock Mussel &Seafood 

Festival on Saturday 14 March, there 

is afantastic rangeofsmaller gigs and 

festivalsonoffer. 

“There is no shortage of greatmusic 

events in Marlboroughthissummerso 

get out there, grab your ticket and 

supportthese fantasticlocal events.” 

Upcoming highlights include: 

TheBats-iconic NZ band -Saturday 

21 February at theAndersonTheatre 

(ASB Theatre) 

Love-All boutique festival with DJ 

BennySalvador-Saturday28FebruaryatBarewood 

Garden,nearSeddon 

Framingham Harvest Concert, Friday6March,Renwick 

Fruit Loop Music Festival with DJ 

Dick Johnson and support, Saturday 

28 March, The Fancy Cow, near 


Various music performances in 

othervenuesincluding Brayshaw Park 

Chapel, the Queen Charlotte Tavern 

andLeCafé, Picton. 

Pick up acopyofthe Summer Events 

GuidefromCouncil officesand cafes 

across Marlborough. Anew Autumn 

Event Guide will be available from 1 

March. 

Check out the Marlborough Events 

Guide atwww.marlboroughnz.com/ 

whatson/ 

TheBats-iconicNZband-Saturday 21 February 

at theAndersonTheatre (ASB Theatre). 

Circus magic 

BlenheimfriendsTyson,Oscarand 

Zoewereall smiles 

afterenjoyingthelastnight 

of theWeber Bros Circus on 

Saturday. 

Thetriowereentertainedby 

thevarietyofacts,laughing 

out loud atsome ofthe 

antics. 

The bubble lady proved a 

firmfavouritewithallagreeingshe 

was“amazing.”



M a r l b o r o u g h 

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14 



CELEBRATINGOUR FIREFIGHTERS 

Supporting the community •Saving lives •Making adifference 

ExpErts in 

rural fEncing 

and stockyards 

•Rural Fencing 

•Residential 

Fencing 

•Lifestyle 

Fencing 

•Gates 

We provide strong 

reliable fencing 

solutions to suit your 

farm or lifestyle property. 

40 yearsofexperience. 

•Vineyard 

Development 

•Security 

Fencing 

•Pool 

Fencing 

Proud of 

our local 

firefighters 

Mike 021 416 798 |Brad 021 416 703 

www.rennerfencing.co.nz 

Proudtosupport our 

localfirefighters 

www.harristraining.co.nz 

news tips 

Send your tips to 

news@blenheimsun.co.nz 

Afamilyoffirefighters 

with communityatheart 


Together, they’ve served a 

combination ofalmost 80years, 

showing astrong and ongoing 

commitment to theircommunity. 

One family has been at the 

heart ofSeddon Fire Brigade 

fordecades.The Stevensfamily, 

Rebeccaand Justin andall three 

of their sons have volunteered 

with thebrigade. 

Andasvolunteer numbersstart 

to dwindle, Rebecca ishoping 

more people will step forward 

andjoinup. 

The Deputy Fire Chief, who 

serves alongsideher husbandand 

Chief, said thebrigade needed betweenfourand 

sixnew members. 

“Good firefighters come from 

awide variety of back grounds, 

the more variety the better for 

different situations. 

“But the key attributes would 

be resilience,adaptability, avery 

strongteamworkmindset,being 

calm and being able to communicate 

effectivelyinour team.” 

Potential volunteers need to 

live or work around Seddon 

during theday.Theywillalsobe 

able to train towear Breathing 

Apparatus(BA). 

Rebecca said there were currently 

11 volunteer firefighters 

able towear Breathing Apparatus, 

but that number was set to 

drop. 

“Four ofusare getting abit 

long in thetooth,one or twoare 

leavingshortly,wemay have up 

to seven during the day inthe 

working week but sometimes 

only twotofive available. 

“We have two new members 

just joining us, it will take six 

months for them tobetrained, 

andtheyworkinBlenheimsotoo 

farawaytohelpduringthe day.” 

Justin joined the New Zealand 

Fire Service, nowFireand Emergency 

New Zealand (FENZ) in 

September 1992. He has now 

served 33 years while Rebecca 

hasbeenwiththe Seddon Brigade 

foralmost30years. 

Firefighting is alegacy both 

Rebecca and Justin have passed 

on to their sons. Justin followed 

in hisfather’sfootsteps,heading 

outtofireswithhim when he was 

12 yearsold. 

The couple met when Justin 

was onaRecruit Fire Fighters 

course in Blenheim. Together, 

they runtheir ownDeerFarmand 

Vineyard on theedgeofSeddon 

near Yealands Winery. 

Their sons, Jack, 20, Lachlan, 

24, and Campbell, 27, all volunteered 

with Seddon at one stage 

or another. Jack has gone onto 

forgeacareeraroundfirefighting. 

“Jack, ouryoungestson,joined 

as a16-year-old and has been 

avolunteer for just under five 

years,”Rebecca explains. 

“Now he hasmadeacareerofit 

beinganAirforceFireFighter for 

twoyears andaVolunteerSenior 

Fire Fighter ofabrigade inthe 

NorthIsland. 

“Lachlan has been amember 

of ourbrigade foreight yearsand 

is qualified as aStation Officer. 

Campbell wasinour brigadefor 

threeyears butashe’sonafarm 

up north, he is toofar away from 

anyfire stationtojoin.” 

SeddonFireBrigadevolunteersJackandLachlanStevenswiththeir 

mumand Deputy Fire Chief, RebeccaStevens andtheir dad, Chief 

Fire OfficerJustinStevens. Photo: Supplied. 

Rebecca says she has always 

enjoyedthe personal challengeof 

beingpartofthe brigade, as well 

as thechancetolearn newskills. 

“There aresomanyprogressive 

coursestoattendand youare constantly 

learning new skills and 

techniques that couldpotentially 

help save alife,”she says. 

“Nomatterhow long youhave 

been there, thereisalwayssomethingnew 

to learn.” 

While she says the role can 

indeed be difficultattimes,there 

is plenty of supportonoffer. “We 

are there to support each other 

and now days we have alot of 

supportthatcan be called upon. 

“You used to just have to ‘suck 

it up’but nowwecan getthe help 

that is needed.” 

The backing of the local community 

is also huge, Rebecca 

says. The flexibility shown by 

localemployers is key. 

“Without their understanding 

and support, wewould be short 

crewed more often than wealready 

are to the point where we 

may not be able to get our truck 

outthe door. 

“In those situations, the next 

nearestappliance is more than 20 

minutesaway.” 

Thebrigade is settoinvestina 

new4x4 Ute, also made possible 

by the community’s support 

through acurrent fundraising 

campaign. ‘This will enhance 

ourability to help others,Rebecca 

says. 

What keepsher doingwhatshe 

does? “The desire tohelp others 

is what keepsmedoing what Ido. 

Thereisnothing like thelookon 

someone’sfacewhenweturnup 

to help,alook of relief,fromI’m 

sure an overwhelming situation.” 

“Teamwork. Purpose. Challengeand 

helpingpeopleinneed. 

It will change your life andother 

people’s life too.” 

Proud 

emPloyer of 

community 

heroes 

03 578 7607 

53 Charles Street, Blenheim 

supporting those 

Who Protect 

marlborough. 

helping prevent the call-out 

before it happens. 

 

 

 

 

early Warning fire Alarm systems 

electrical safety checks 

residential&commercialmaintenance 

24 hour emergency callouts 

Thanks to all our volunteers 

Nelson Marlborough Management 

want to thank all of our Brigades 

members,families and employers 

of volunteers fortheir dedication, 

professionalism and supportthey 

providethroughout theyear. 

We need Volunteers 

ContactyourLocal Fire Brigade 

or https://fireandemergency.nz/find-a-station





The rural force 

first at the scene 

Celebrating 

Firefighters everywhere. 


The crew atOkiwi Bay Volunteer 

Rural Fire Force are 

oftenthe first on scene, gaining 

precious time as an emergency 

unfolds. 

With nine crew and acore 

group ofseven, the team are 

close, theirexperiencespans up 

to 16 years. 

Chief Fire Officer Dick Lyall, 

aveteran with 52 years’ service 

as acareerfirefighter in Nelson, 

would like tohave more volunteersonboard. 

It’s amutually beneficial relationship, 

heexplained, with 

volunteers forging friendships 

and learning new skills while 

helping the community they 

call home. 

About 92km from Blenheim 

and 68km from Nelson, the 

Okiwi Bay crew find most jobs 

they attend are motor vehicle 

accidents. The team are also 

co-responders with Hato Hone 

St John, attending situations 

whereurgenthelpisneededwith 

apossibly violent or aggressive 

patient. 

Dick explained that being so 

isolated,the crew oftendealwith 

time issues too. 

“The distanceswemusttravel 

to some calls means we have 

the clock working against us, 

as the fire hastime totake hold 

while wecan still besome distanceaway,”hesaid. 

“House fires can become 

unsurvivable in under three 

minutes, so the best protection 

people have in remote areas 

is working smoke alarms and 

plenty of them.” 

Beingsoremotealsomeans the 

firefighters must allow for the 

travel time until back upfrom 

Rai Valley, Nelson or Havelock 

arrive at the scene. Their skills 

and training come into force as 

they manage thecallout with the 

gear they have,Dickexplained. 

“Wedonot have BA (breathing 

apparatus) or level2Firefighting 

uniform toallow us to enter a 

TheOkiwi Baycrewisatight-knitteamofnine. Photo: Stock 

housefire andcarry outinternal 

fireattackand must do thevery 

best we can, with external fire 

attack.” 

There are positives tothe role 

too, Dick explained. 

“We try to have agood social 

atmosphere within the brigade, 

with regular BBQs which involve 

the whole brigade and 

families. 

“The best part is that we can 

help people in theirtimeofneed 

with the skills wehave and the 

gear provided and contribute to 

thegoodofthe community.” 

Cellar Door 

Wed to Sun 

9.30am – 4.30pm 

03 572 8803 

hunters.co.nz 

Your Local 

Manufacturing Jeweller 

Find outmoreabout volunteering 

Fire and Emergency New 

Zealand rely onvolunteers 

in nearly 600stationsnationwide, 

tohelp communities 

prevent, prepare, respondand 

recoverfrom emergencies. 

As well as firefighting, 

volunteers attend medical 

incidents, motorvehicle accidents, 

severe weather events 

and other requests for help. 

They also install and check 

smoke alarms and help to 

improve fire safety inour 

communities. 

Volunteerbrigadesare made 

up of locals who have different 

professions and skills, 

with onething in common -to 

be therefor theircommunity. 

Volunteers need to be 16 

yearsofage andaNZ citizen 

for atleast two years as well 

as living close enough toa 

volunteer station to respond 

quickly. 

To find out more about volunteering 

visit www.fireandemergency.nz/work-or-volunteer-for 

us/volunteering/ 

register-your-interest-to-volunteer/ 

With appreciation for 

ourlocal firefighters 

www.gmwjewellery.co.nz |ph577 9340 

91 Weld St,Redwoodtown 

Allyourcommunity news 

nowalsoonthe 

Blenheim Sun Facebook page 

PROUDLYPROVIDING A 

VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER 

TO THE COMMUNITY 

Proud to employ aVolunteer Fire Fighter 

It’s always aGoody at the Woody! 

80 High Street,Renwick 

Phone 03 572 8007 

www.woodbournetavern.co.nz 

We can deliver or collect just about anything, including building supplies, 

gravel, fertilizer &stock. We also look after swing moorings. 

Servicing the entire Marlborough Sounds for over 100 years 

South End of the marina, Havelock •Ph03574 2434 •info@jbs.nz 

www.jbs.nz





ForAll Your 

Paintand PanelNeeds 

Proud tosupport our 

local Fire Fighters 

Friends for life 


admin@panelpaint.co.nz 

Ph: 578 4192 |29Stuart St, Blenheim 

Iwishtoextendmyappreciation 

forthe exceptionalservice andvital 

responsemadebythe Volunteer 

Firefightersand acknowledge the 

gracious supportand understanding 

allowedbytheir family andemployers. 

Another community notice 

supportedbyMichaelRea 

Marlborough's No.1 RealEstate 

Salesperson in results andreviews 

0273643914 |www.michaelrea.co.nz 

Instep Real Estate Limited Licensed (REAA 2008) 

Visit usonline at 

blenheimsun.co.nz 

Forging friendships and meeting great 

people wasabonusfor former firefighter 

MichaelRae. 

Watching atruck rush outfromthe Blenheim 

Fire Station, Michaelwas intrigued 

andwantedtofind outmore. 

After watching acouple of training 

nights,hewas hooked andspent thenext 

decade as avolunteer. 

It was, he says,one of thebestthings 

he ever did. 

“Onceyou’reinvolved, theadrenaline 

buzz gets pretty addictive. 

You learn amassive amount 

of skills,fromoperating thehose 

reelstocutting theroofoffcars. 

“You create lots of great 

friendships and it builds your 

confidenceand character. 

“Personally, Iloved thebuzz. 

Loud lights andsirens, rushing 

to scenewhere youhavetobe 

ready toact on your training 

and instincts with your mates 

at your side.” 

Working his way uptoPump 

Operator (driver),Michael,now a 

successful agentwithRay White 

Real estate, became aSenior 

Firefighter. 

Hisnamesitsamong others on the 

wall alongsidehis awards at thebusy 

Blenheim stationinWynen Street.Itis 

asourceofpride,heexplains. 

“I stillkeepintouch with many current 

andpastmembers.Friends forlife. There 

are lots ofincredible memories and Iam 

proudtohavemyawardsand name etched 

on thewall.” 

When youbecomepartofthe crew at Fire 

and Emergency NewZealand, you join a 

team of more than 14,000 firefighters and 

support teams who serve communities 

together. 

It is thesupport of thelocal Marlborough 

community and businesses which help 

make volunteering areality.Leaving work 

and family atamoment’s notice takes 

asupportive 

environment, 

Michaelexplains. 

“Not only do you have 

to trust the person seating inthe seat 

beside you toperform under pressure but 

also trust your loved ones and workmates to 

graciously allowyou to take time away from 

them andgiveittothose in urgent need. 

Michael Rae volunteered asa 

firefighter with Blenheim Volunteer 

Fire Brigadefor 10 years. 


“Itcan seem daunting to startwithbut with 

training,support andcourage,fighting fireor 

saving livesisnot an experience youcan pay 

for, only earn.” 

spring creek 

PROUD TO EMPLOY 

AVOLUNTEER 

FIREFIGHTER 

03 570 5891 |foursquare.co.nz 

2226 SH1, Spring Creek



VitaminB12 deficiency 

By George Elder 

Vitamin B12 is extremely 

important throughout life. It 

is critical forthe braindevelopment 

of children and implicated 

in the development 

of Alzheimer’sdisease. Because vitaminB12 

is only availablefromanimalsourced foods, 

itisfrequentlydeficientinvegansand some 

vegetarianswho must supplement it. 

In 1926 raw liver was found to help cure 

Pernicious Anemia, atthe time, analmost 

always fataldisease. The liverwas supplying 

vitamin B12 and Intrinsic Factor, although 

no-oneknewthisthen. In 1948 vitaminB12 

was identified, named cobalamin because 

of its cobalt atom and inthe 1950’s it was 

discovered to be critical fornerve protection. 

Nerves, like electric circuits, need tobe 

isolated from one another. This isolation is 

achieved with myelin sheathing, much like 

insulation on electrical wires, it protects the 

nerves and ensures the impulses that they 

carry doeventually arrive attheir intended 

destination. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) isan 

autoimmune disease where this myelin 

sheathingisdamaged. 

Babies go through specific stages when 

developing andafailuretoget allthe required 

nutrientsataparticular developmentalstage 

can result inafailure for that development 

to complete satisfactorily. This can result 

in permanent unrecoverable damage. The 

availability of choline and vitamin B12 are 

both critical for full brain development in 

children. 

Vitamin B12 deficiency can result in permanent 

braindamage, tingling andburning 

sensations in hands and feet, headaches, 

irritability,memorylapses, anxiety, anddepression. 

Ifnot treatedsomesymptomscan 

become permanent and can mimic mental 

illness. Other symptoms include mouth 

ulcers, balance issues, weight and appetite 

loss,and gutproblems. 

As people age, their ability to absorb 

vitamin B12 reduces, one reason isthat 

strong stomach acid isrequired and this 

candecline with age. Some common medications 

including Proton Pump Inhibitors 

(PPI’s), antacids,and metforminalsoimpact 

absorption.Adiet with lowlevelsofanimal 

products and chewing difficulties can also 

reduce B12levels. 

Where aperson has difficulty eating or 

cooking and chooses easy-to-eat food like 

cereals and bread, avoiding meat and other 

animal foods, theresultcan be minimalB12. 

Becausethe impact of this shortage canlook 

similar toaging problems with cognitive 

impairment (dementia),arthritis,neuropathy 

anddepression, thedeficiency canbeeasily 

missed. Alow-cost diet canalsoexacerbate 

this problemwhere cheapcarbohydrates are 

themainstayoffood consumed. 

In oneAlzheimer’s studythe authorswrote, 

“….low vitaminB12 status …isanimportant 

risk factor for loss ofbrain volume in older 

adults”. 

Recent dietaryguidancetoreducered meat, 

replace animal fats with seed oils, and emphasise 

carbohydrates and plant based food 

have been adisaster for vitamin B12 which 

maybecontributingtothe huge increase in 

Alzheimer’sdisease. 

Find linkstomybooks,myhealthcoaching 

clinic or subscribefor health blogsatwww. 

takebackyrhealth.com. Seek professional 

advice before dietary changes, particularly 

if on medication. George Elder, Certified 

Health Coach, Author,Diploma in Nutrition. 

Thebestthing youcan do foryourhealthis 

eatbetter. 

TheHollows Boys 

By Peta Carey |Published by Potton andBurton |Price$39.99. 

Book Review 

Reviewed by Tony Orman 

Thestory of thecommercialvenison industryinFiordland,infamouslyknown 

as “The 

Deer Wars” istold around three brothers, 

all famously legends each in his own right 

Gary,Markand KimHollows -the Hollows 

Boys -are thetrio. 

Notsurprisinglythe bookisfullofdaring 

flying, near escapes and inevitable crashes 

anddeath. 

Ihad known Gary Hollows and his son 

Heath when our paths met in Motueka, 

so the book had some degree of personal 

attachment. 

Franklythe book begins in staccato fashion, 

butitquickly settlesdowntoavery personal 

insight into the three brothers, all colourful 

characters and very skilled each in his own 

right. It is acandid, sensitive and skilfully 

craftedreadthatauthorPetaCarey haswoven 

-attimes gripping andpoignant. 

It’s difficult tocomprehend why anyone 

wouldknowingly take therisks andflirtwith 

danger andevendeath,but Iguess theadrenalin-saturated 

addictionwas irresistible. 

Very highly recommended. 

Time:7:00-8:30pm 

Doorsopenat6:30 

____ 

Entry$15, 

$10seniors and 

children 

____ 

SATURDAY 21 ST FEBRUARY 

ANIGHT AT THE 

CONCLAVE 

Cardinal John Dew inBlenheim 

Come toSt. Mary’s Catholic Church to hear Cardinal John Dew tell 

his story ofbeing apart ofthe conclave that elected Pope Leo XIV 

in Rome in2025. 

Tickets are available at Humanitix. Scan the 

QR code below: 

Describedbysome 

as aglimpse behind 

scenes of the 

Conclave as they 

chosePopeLeo XIV 

____ 

Ticketsavailable at 

Humanitix.com 

____ 

ST.MARY’SCATHOLIC 

CHURCH 

59 Maxwell Road 

Blenheim

18 Wednesday February 18, 2026 


Considering 

Aged Care? 

Discover aplace that feels like home at 

Redwood Lifestyle &Care Village 

If you’re looking for aged care for yourself or 

someone you love, Redwood Lifestyle &Care 

Village by Oceania is hosting amorning tea 

Tuesday 10th February from 10to11.30am and 

would love you to come along. 

Join us for arelaxed chance tolook around, meet 

the team, see the Care Suites, and hear about our 

limited time five thousand dollar moving package 

or five thousand dollar cash back offer*. 

Redwood isatrusted local care village, located on 

Cleghorn Street, just minutes from Blenheim’s town 

centre offering rest home and hospital-level care 

in acalm, supportive environment designed tofeel 

like home. 

Care Suites are available now from $245,000, with 

respite care also available for short-term support 

when families need ahelping hand. 

To learn more, call our team on0800 333 688. 

131 Cleghorn Street, Redwoodtown, Blenheim 

oceaniahealthcare.co.nz 

*No referral required. For residents 65 years and above. Terms, 

conditions and eligibility criteria apply. 

Visit oceaniahealthcare.co.nz/current-offers for full detail.



Simply the best in 

Beauty • Health • Wellness 

The Skin Hub offers 

Picton Pop-up clinic 

VEIN CLINIC 

Get your veins 

checked early 

before they 

become a 

serious problem 

Four years after opening its doors, The 

Skin Hubremains committedtoproviding 

accessible, high-quality skin cancer care 

to theMarlborough communityand is still 

welcomingnew patients. 

On Wednesday25February, theteamwill 

be offering apop-up clinic at the Queen 

Charlotte Yacht Club, making iteasier for 

Picton locals to access expert skin checks 

closer to home. 

Clinic owner DrMartina Suleiman says 

the initiative isabout convenience and 

comfort. 

“Wewanttomakeitaseasyaspossiblefor 

ourpatientstosee us andhopethatholding 

aclinic atthe yacht club will help patients 

feel relaxedand at ease.” 

Dr Suleiman is an accredited skin cancer 

doctor and the only full member of the 

New Zealand Skin Cancer Doctors in 

Marlborough. Accredited throughthe Skin 

Cancer CollegeofAustralasia (SCCA),she 

is also the only female among 24 doctors 

across Australiaand NewZealand selected 

to contribute to educationalsessionsfor the 

College. 

With Southern Cross affiliation, Easy- 

Claim, and Rooms/Office-Based Surgery 

accreditation, The Skin Hub meets 

stringent quality and safety standards for 

procedures performed outside ahospital 

setting. 

Offering care from assessment through 

to surgery, patients benefit from timely 

treatmentand continuity with atrusted team 

throughout theirentireskinhealthjourney. 

NO REFERRAL NECESSARY 

Just call 03 578 9109 or email 

bookings@mmimaging.co.nz 

for afree noobligation 

vein assessment 

Churchill Specialist Centre 

Emergency Gate, 

Wairau Hospital, 

Hospital Road, Blenheim 

Healthline, Pharmacists, GP or GP Practice Nurse, 

and Urgent After Hours GP offer professional 

health advice. 

If you arrive at Wairau Hospital’sEmergency 

Department with anon-urgent health concern you 

may be referred to your GP. 

TheSkinHub will be in Picton on Wednesday25thFebruary. Book your appointmentonlineorphone 03 2426088. 

To promote 

•Health 

•Beauty 

•Wellness 

Contact: 



Hearing is not just about 

sound –itisabout connection. 

At afamily-owned clinic, you’re cared 

for like family because we know 

firsthand how important it is to stay 

connected to the people you love. 

Hear better. Stay connected. 

From our family to yours 

–reconnect with what matters. 

21 Francis Street T: 03 579 3092 

blackmoreaudiology.co.nz

20 



BROUghT TO yOUByViRiDiAN glASS 

Your trusted local glass company for well over 50 years. 

CROSSWORD 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 

9 10 

438 

SUDOKU 

Every row, column and box should 

contain the digits 1to9. 

WORDBUILDER 

338 

R W A 

E M R 

11 12 

13 14 15 16 17 

How many words ofthree or more 

letters, including plurals, can you make 

from the six letters, using each only 

once? 

No words beginning with acapital are 

allowed. There’s atleast one six-letter 

word. 

18 19 20 

Good 13 Very Good 17 Excellent 22 

Solution337: 

,dart, da ,da,dr 

21 22 23 24 

25 26 

27 28 

Across 

1. Phone surveillance(7) 

5. Mail satchel (7) 

9. Proportion (5) 

10. Loneliness(9) 

11. Irrational (9) 

12. Surmise (5) 

13. Curtain(5) 

15. Servingnousefulpurpose(9) 

18. Unfaithfulness(9) 

19. Right-hand page (5) 

21. Brownish-yellowcolour (5) 

23. Tooearly (9) 

25. Ocean-going (9) 

26. Group of eight (5) 

27. Unrelatedlineofthought (7) 

28. Advanced in years(7) 

Decoder 

Down 

1. Concerned (7) 

2. Strike back(9) 

3. Ajandal,inOz(5) 

4. Rule or law(9) 

5. Stalk(5) 

6. Massacre(9) 

7. Illegal inducement (5) 

8. Origin,beginning (7) 

14. Severely criticise(9) 

16. Group of US universities(3,6) 

17. Meet (9) 

18. Journey,crossing (7) 

20. In full view (7) 

22. Cerebrum (5) 

23. Indicate (5) 

24. Audibly(5) 

Crossword 

Across: 1. Wiretap, 5. Postbag, 9. Ratio, 10. Isolation, 11.Illogical, 12. 

Guess, 13. Drape, 15. Pointless, 18. Treachery, 19. Recto, 21. Amber, 23. 

Premature, 25. Seafaring, 26. Octet, 27. Tangent, 28. Elderly. 

Down: 1. Worried, 2. Retaliate, 3.Thong, 4. Principle, 5.Prowl, 6. 

Slaughter, 7.Bribe, 8. Genesis, 14. Excoriate, 16. Ivy League, 17. 

Encounter, 18. Transit, 20. Overtly, 22. Brain, 23. Point, 24.Aloud. 

WordBuilder 

are, arm, awe, ear, era, err, mar, mare, maw, mew, ram, rare, raw, rawer, 

ream, rear, rearm, REWARM, war, ware, warm, WARMER, wear. 

DECODER 

Each number represents adifferent 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 

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TheMiracle Market 

theMiracle Market in blenheim CbDonSaturdayattracted 

plenty of visitors all making the most of the welcoming 

atmosphere. Organsied by friends Holly Lyall and tayla 

Glaap,the fundraiser wasfor thethe Little Miracles trust. 

Photos:AnneGaelle 


Out& 

...with The Sun 

your localpaper 

AbOut 

Have an event? 

Contact035777 868 

Ciara Glue andJeanine Aston. 

MiracleMarketorganisersHolly Lyall andTayla Glapp. 

Singer Eliza Kersten-Brown and Sarah 

Brown. 

Kendaland HeathPerettofGecko CreationZ. 

Tedand LauraAlderlieste. 

Jenner Halcrow, Howieand Matt Brown. 

Svenja andMaddisonMorganselling theirsweetsfromCrave and 

Crumble. 

Freyja,Luana andBen JonesrepresentingOpenHeartsMedicineand theircacao. 

Tuesday Special 

Thickshakes 

$ 

4 

Every 

Tuesday in 

February 

60 Main Street 

6am -11pm •7days 


Ts &Csapply 

Monthly Special 

Mousse 

Golden 

Bikkie or 

Neapolitan 

$ 

4 

Every day in February

22 



SuperRugby 2026 

hasstarted baby! 

Report by Ryan Webb 

CrusadersvHighlanders 

What agreat derby toopen the 

season with. Itwas abit scrappyto 

start with,too many unforced errors 

by both teams, but once they found 

their feet, all hell broke loose with 

theHighlanders striking in the14th 

minute with some sensationalcarries 

andpasseswhich sawAll Blacksnub 

from 2025,Caleb Tangitau scorefirst. 

Then 5minutes later, throughsome 

epic set piece work, the forwards 

didthe hard graft, andwhenthe ball 

spilledout,All Blackhalfback, Noah 

Hotham sneaked down the sideline 

andscoredfor theCrusaders. 

Toomanysilly errors by both teams 

before half time left them heading 

to sheds with probably stern words 

from both coaches. Reinforcements 

came on for the Highlanders and 

improved things abit, some unique 

breakdownplaybythe Highlanders 

forwards set the perfect chance up 

forapick andgo. This ledtoAngus 

Ta’avao going over for atry inthe 

44th minute. In the 48 th minute 

through some beautiful passing, JacobRatumaitavuki-Kneepkins 

goes 

on arun tiptoeingdownthe sideline 

then gets the pass away toJonah 

Lowwho scores in thecornerfor the 

Highlanders. Nottobeoutdone,the 

Crusaders come straight back and 

scorethrough atry by Will Jordan. 

With apenalty in the 78th minute 

kicked by Cam Miller, this gave 

theHighlanders thewin. 

FinalScore: 25-23 Highlanders 

BluesvChiefs 

TheBattleofthe Bombay’s never 

failstodeliver,withthe Chiefs finally 

kickingoffthe scoringthrough Tupou 

Vaai,withsomeintegralforward 

breakdown play assisting action. 

Minutes later the Blues struck back 

with atry to Zarn Sullivan. Both 

teamshad missed opportunities, with 

thescore locked at 5-5athalftime. 

Dalton Papalii scored inthe 52nd 

minute, putting the Blues ahead. 

Thenthrough an exceptionalpickand 

go, Samisoni Taukei’aho scored for 

theChiefsinthe 62 nd minute,locking 

the scores back up againat12-12. 

The Blues got the lead through a 

penaltykickoffthe back of astupid 

mistake bythe Chiefs. Inthe 75th 

minute, the Chiefs sealed the deal 

with abustbySamipeniFinau who 

passes it off sensationally toCortez 

Ratima to score the final try. This 

put the final score to19-15 to The 

Chiefs. 

The game never really flowed and 

showed first game ofthe season 

errors by both teams. Local man 

KyrenToumoefolau neverreallygot 

toshine,asthe game just didn’t flow. 

FinalScore:19-15 Chiefs 

MVPs:Crusaders -Jamie Hannah, 

Blues -Dalton Papalii, Chiefs – 

CortezRatima. 

Ryan Webb -The 

RugbyOpinioneer 

gardening this week 

Food security: By WallyRichards 

Oneareaofthe NorthIslandthatiscurrently 

suffering with aweather bomb andpeoplehave 

been advisedtohaveatleast oneweekoffood 

andwater availableincase. 

OneWeek! My goodness!Whenthe supermarkets 

close for one day, there issomuch 

panic-buying. 

Back in the 50’s and 60’s people would not 

only have good vegetable gardens but likely 

chickens and apantry full of food, bottled, 

pickledand preservedplusbinsofflour, cereals, 

sugar, etcsonot only couldtheyweather 

astorm butberelativelyself-sufficient forover 

amonth or more. 

It is the wise squirrel that stores nuts for 

thewintertotideovertillthe relief of spring 

comesagain. 

In an unused spare room orwardrobe itis 

notdifficult to have asupplyofnon-perishable 

foods, water, powder milk whichyou gradually 

buildupand once youreach atargetthen 

yousimplyuse andreplace with freshsothat 

your larder is always well within any use-by 

dates. 

If youhavepets, then youalsoneed to have 

amplestockstocover theiremergency needs. 

It is nowhalfway throughFebruaryand with 

daylight hoursand rain formostareas it is the 

best time to grow some food forwinter. 

Theprice of vegetables will go up in acouple 

of months or so andhavingsomeofyourown 

freshout of thegardenwillbeagreat saving 

andwillimprove your health as well. 

If you don’t have any land orlawn togrow 

food then you can put raised gardens on 

concrete areas oruse grow bags, containers, 

veggie pods or at alastresortsproutseeds on 

windowsill like we wroteabout last week. 

Ihaveseensomegreat frontlawns that have 

been converted tobig vegetable garden beds 

with wide mowing strips separating them. 

Choose aplace which gets sun for most of 

theday andideally abit shelteredifpossible. 

Mark outanarea2mlongand 1m wide and 

mowthatareaaslow as possible.Aroundthe 

area digatrench abouthalfaspadedepth and 

10cm wide.Thiswillassistwithdrainageand 

be amowingstrip. 

Thesodsremoved canbeput into apileina 

wasteareafor useinfuture. 

Nowoverthe selected area putagood layer 

of cardboardtocompletelycover thelow-cut 

grass, adouble layer if you have enough 

cardboard. 

Wetthe cardboarddownand over it sprinkle 

any animal manure, sheep manure pellets, 

Wallys Real Blood &Bone, Wallys BioPhos 

andCalcium &Health. 

Cover this with a5cm layer of Dalton’s 

compostand plantyourseeds or seedlings. 

It is by far best toplant seeds ofcabbages, 

cauliflower, swedes, lettuce etc at the right 

spacingapart. 

Carrots, parsnips andonion seedssprinkled 

down arow andsprayed with MagicBotanic 

Liquid (MBL) tospeed up the germination. 

Lateron, youcan thin outthe youngplantsto 

ensure ampleroomfor thosethatwillmature. 

Spraythe plants weekly or even twiceaweek 

with MBLand youcan even addthe molasses 

to increase growth andshorten maturity time. 

One tablespoon molasses into alitre ofhot 

water and add 10mil of MBL and you have 

Wallys Liquid Sunshine readytouse. 

Getgrowing andenjoy thehealthbenefits of 

naturallyhomegrowproduce andhavemore 

food security with cost savingsaswell. 

Sun Weather Today 11-24 Thursday 12-28 Friday 9-25 Saturday 12-23 Sunday 12-26 Monday 10-26


CBDspending 

Little wonderthatspendinghas plungedby 

over 7percent. With the huge council rates 

people have no moneytospend. 

Please joinus 

Idoenjoy abeerand having friendly banter 

withpeople. Theonlyproblem is that invitationstojoinsomepeople’scompany 

revolves 

around your social status, and it seems I’m 

on the bottom rung asfar as status goes. 

AlthoughI’m thinking this is abouttochange 

nowthatI’vewon Lotto. Imay need to hire a 

secretarytodealwiththe blitzofinvitations 

coming my way. 

Re:birdscaring 

Could all the people bird scaring out there 

please stop tootingyourhorn! Just themere 

fact that youare goingpastthe birdsiswhat 

is making them fly away.The noisefromyour 

hornisjustpissing off your neighbours. 

Outside lightdisruptingsleep 

Does anyone else have the same problem a 

neighbourhas decidedtoleave theiroutside 

light onall night? It’s brighter than the 

streetlights goes straight into kids bedroom. 

So rude. 

txt talk with 

Wellingtonwaste 

Afarmer’scow crapsinacreek,all hell rainsonhis head.Wellington 

pours the waste of about 179,000 people into the sea and the 

authoritiesdon’t appear to give (excusethe pun) as#!t. 

Notuptothe job 

So! Dalton Papalii has come out whinging 

that he didn’t get too much rugby under 

Robertsonlastyear. He wasn’t up to thejob, 

that’s why. There’smoretobeing an AllBlack 

than strutting round the paddock with your 

chestout trying to influence theref’s decision 

making.Ithinkmostrugbypunditswouldwish 

him well ifhe’s considering going overseas 

to play sometime soon. Hemight even end 

up captaining EnglandorSouth Africa if he’s 

that good ! 

Re:Demonstration 

TheProHamasdemonstratorsgetawaywithit 

becauseweare allentitledand free to protest. 

That aside, we should set upapro Israeli 

demonstrationnextdoortothem. Couldbe 

quitehilarious.Betterstill,maybe noneofus 

shouldgetsoexcisedaboutsomethingonthe 

othersideofthe worldthathas nothingtodo 

with NewZealanders. 

TheMoa PointWastewater 

TreatmentPlant failed 

Graphic images showed the consequences 

floatinginthe bays around Wellington. 

It sure brings home the responsibility for 

getting priorities right when setting council 

budgets. 


Greatservice 

Wonderful customer servicefromYvonneat 

TheWarehouse self checkout.Thank youfor 

yourhelpandkindconversation.Mademyday. 

MalachiSubecz 

Iheard the mother offive year old Malachi 

Subecz who was murdered puts the blame 

with government agencies and the person 

who inflicted the injuries. However the very 

first failingwas themotherherself,who happenedtobeinjailatthe 

time.... Responsibility 

starts andendswiththe parents. Endofstory. 

Re:Pictonnews, or is it? 

Happened to me also when searching from 

Australia.Simplesolution:addNEWZEALAND 

whengoogling theseplace namesifyou want 

local NZ ones. 

Re:Norespect 

Iagree! Treat your servers with respect. Let 

them know youappreciate theirefforts! 

Saturday Flagwavers 

How marvellous tosee the flagwavers for 

Palestine still out atthe Blenheim Railway 

station each Saturday. We might have a 

government complicitinthe mass killingand 

mass starvation of Palestinians in Gaza but 

these principled people are the conscience 

of the community. Genocide, racism, ethnic 

cleansing and apartheid are never OK-let’s 

keep on demandingjustice andequal rights 

forPalestinians. 


Talk of theweek 

Thank you 

To theman whostopped my 

mumfromfallingintown 

Friday 13th abig thankyou 

from grateful mother and 

daughter.You’reagem. 

Re:Wonderful Wairau 

Iwholeheartedlyagree. 

Also 5daysofwonderful 

care.Meals were nothingto 

complain about. Staff went 

over andabove theirduty 

even giving me unrushed 

emotionalsupport when a 

difficult decision hadtobe 

made.‘Thankyou’doesn’t 

seem to be enough. 

Wine andFood 

Anotherfantastic event. Iwent 

to theveryfirstone allthose 

yearsago,and have been to 

most of them sincethen. 

We welcomeyourtexts on 

027242 5266. 

Limitto70words please. 

We reservethe righttopublish at our 

discretion.Pleasenotethe opinions 

expressedare notnecessarily thoseofthe 

Sunmanagement. 

ClimateActionWeek! 

What afraud. It’s true that the climate has 

always changed. Anynotiablehuman impact 

Isuspect isn’tbythe meansthatmostare led 

to believe. 

TV ads 

Cananybodyexplain to mewhythe adsonTV 

insult ourintelligence? 

EasternStatesSpeedway 

Great, well organisedand entertaining racing 

last Saturday evening. Thankyou. But why 

is the previously open road tocar parking 

blockedwithlarge tyresnow?Yes,Isat over 

4hours last meeting when itwas cancelled, 

heart breaking for all. It was utter chaos last 

night getting to the rough stony back road 

out, with 5lots ofconverging traffic. Very 

frustrating and confusing. Please sort it, we 

don’t have a4WD. 

Bike lane revamp 

Well, thank goodness common sense has 

prevailedatlast. TheElthamRdcycle lane by 

WhitneyStreetschoolisgoingtoberevamped 

andthe ridiculous concrete dividers aregoing 

to be removed. Ifor one have never seen 

any cyclists ever using the lane and it’s so 

challenging driving along the narrow street 

with largerange rovers coming towardsyou. 

Looking forwardtobetterroadaccess. 

Waterrunsdownhill! 

Now I’m no expert on rivers but Idoknow 

waterrunsdownhill!Sohelpmetounderstand 

howthe Council’snew digger‘Swampy’(now 

high anddry at GillsYardonRapaura Rd)can 

have completed its job ifithasn’t dug the 

Taylor Riverdeeperall theway to thesea. 

Has Council got plans for alake ordotheir 

expertsknowmoreabout waterflows? 

Gotanimportant issuetosharewithMarlborough? Text your thoughts to 027242 5266 

“I will have poetry inmylife.And adventure.And love. Love above all.” 

MARLBOROUGH REPERTORY SOCIETY PRESENTS A B OATHOUSE PRODUCTION OF 

DIRECTED BY PAM LOGAN & AMANDA TOLLEMACHE 

MUSICAL DIRECTOR LIZ MCKAY 

BOATHOUSE THEATRE 

APRIL 15 TH TO 25 TH 2026 

BOOKINGS & TICKETS 

AT ASB THEATRE 

BASED ON THESCREENPLAYBY 

MARC NORMAN & TOM STOPPARD 

ADAPTED FOR STAGE BY 

LEE HALL 

SUPPORTED BY 

ACommunity Theatre production ofShakespeare inLove by special arrangement with Samuel French andThe Play Bureau. 

©Disney


To advertise ph 03-5777-868 The Blenheim 

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•Whole house ducted 

systems 

•Hot water HeatPumps 

CALL US FORAN 

OBLIGATION-FREE QUOTE 

New Homes •Renovations 

Alterations •Kitchens 

Architectural and Hill Work 

Bathrooms•Landscape 

Construction •Decks 

BBQ Areas •Pergolas 

Retaining Walls 

Forall 

your home 

& business 

IT needs 

p. 03 570-2298 

5A Sutherland Tce 

e. info@mintair.co.nz 

www.mintair.co.nz 

Trade Qualified Builder 

with 35+ years' experience 

CALL PHIL THE BUILDER 

027 2289 337 

email: crocbuild@xtra.co.nz 

Call us now! 

Ph: (03) 577 9498 

17 Kinross Street 

sales@bpcomputers.co.nz 

COnCrete 

deCOrAting 

eleCtriCAl 

eleCtriCAl 

fOrklift hire 

2024 

FOR ALL THINGS 

CONCRETE 

Complete Site 

Preparation and 

Excavation Services 

RESIDENTIAL &RURAL 

Concrete Placing 

Driveways •Form Work 

Exposed Concrete 

Concrete Stamping 

Concrete Cutting 

Core Drilling 

021 160 5439 

FOR ALL YOUR 

PAINTING & 

DECORATING 

MARLBOROUGH’SONLY 

DULUXACCREDITED 

PAINTING TEAM 

RESIDENTIAL 

COMMERCIAL 

INDUSTRIAL 

Call now toarrange an 

obligation-free quote 

Ph 0800 080096 

or 021 264 8235 

steve@premierpainting.co.nz 

We are dynamic 

team of experienced 

electrical, solar 

and heat pump 

experts based in 

Marlborough. 

www.sulex.co.nz 

Ph 03 577 8539 

office@sulex.co.nz 

PROMOTE 

YOUR 

BUSINESS 

Advertise 

on the sun’s 

Trades & 

services 

pAge 

CAll us todAy 

577 7868 

for detAils 

YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS, 

OUR EXPERTISE: 

Trusted in Marlborough Since 2001 

Domestic Residential 

Commercial Industrial 

Security Alarms &CCTV 

Commercial Appliances 

Irrigation Electrical 

Offgrid Solar 

Thermal Imaging 

General Servicing 

03 579 4445 

office@cmelectrical.co.nz 

www.cmelectrical.co.nz 

On call after hours service available 

Casual or 

Long Term 

Rentals 

Maintenance& 

Repair Services 

Locally Owned 

and Operated 

Phone: 579 2921 

21 Redwood St,Blenheim 

www.forklifthireservices.co.nz 

gArAge dOOrs 

GARAGE DOOR 

SYSTEMS 

•Sectional Doors 

•Roller Doors 

•Tilt Doors 

•Commercial 

Doors 

•Gate Systems 

•Garage Door 

Openers 

32 New Renwick 

Road, Burleigh, 


Ph 578 8251 

info@dominatorblenheim.co.nz 

gAtes 

Classic 

Gates 

ENGINEERING 

MARLBOROUGH 

POWDERCOATING 

See the experts for: 

Sandblasting 

Powdercoating 

Gates, Fencing 

Furniture 

Pool Fences 

6Nelson St,Blenheim 

Ph/Fax 578 0374 

a/h 021 838 550 

PROMOTE 

YOUR 

BUSINESS 

Advertise 

on the sun’s 

Trades & 

services 

pAge 

CAll us todAy 

577 7868 

for detAils 

lOuvres &MOre 

•Customdesign 

outdoor louvres 

•Automated louvres 

with rain sensors 

•Manual &automated 

outdoor blinds 

•Outdoor heaters& 

LED lightingoptions 

•Louvreshutters 

•Timber &ironfences 

•Pool fencing 

•Decks 

•General landscaping 

Grant(Spud)McLeod 

email: grant@ 

louvresandmore.co.nz 

027540 4412 

Advertising 

Advertise your 

business &services 

in Marlborough’s 

best read newspaper 

Delivered into over 19,000 

Marlborough homes everyweek. 

Ask us about our fantastic cost 

effectivepackages that really work! 

Ph 5777 868 



The 

Sun 

Blenheim Marlborough 

MOving /stOrAge 

pluMBer 

sOlAr 

tree CAre 

vineyArd 

Blenheim’s only locally owned movers! 

Local, National, International 

Moves and Storage 

Let ushelp you get towhere you want tobe! 

Phone uson03 579 5154 

www.marlboroughmoving.co.nz 

BLENHEIM 

TRUSTED 

PLUMBERS, 

GASFITTERS AND 

DRAINLAYERS 

WHETHERYOU NEED 

GAS, DRAINAGE OR 

PLUMBING SERVICES, 

WE HAVE 

GOTYOU 

COVERED. 

Call Steve today 

021 625 378 

Slash your 

power bills 

• Premium Solar 

Systems tosuit your 

home, lifestyle 

and budget 

• Finance available. 

Buy now, pay later 

Jono Underwood 

Local Business Owner 

021 869 808 

0800 00 33 55 

harrisonssolar.co.nz 

Tree Removal 

Height Reduction 

Trimming/Thinning 

Branch Chipping 

HedgeTrimming 

Line Clearance 

Stump Grinding 

Mulch Supplies 

Fully Insured 

FREE 

QUOTES 

Ph.03578 0083 

(Lance) 021 361912 

cts@xtra.co.nz 

Vineyard 

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remoVal 

ELAG isour innovative, 

custom designed and 

patented grapevine 

removal and chipping 

attachment. 

Call Matt 027 268 8061 

or email 

elag@mgcontracting.kiwi 

for afree quote.


Classifieds Advertising Ph03577 7868 


Business for Sale 

Public Notices 



LAWN, GARDEN 

HEDGETRIMMING 

BUSINESS FORSALE 

• 55regular clients 

• Turnover of$80k 

• Plenty ofscope to grow further 

Call 0274 996 869 for more info 

Situations Vacant 

100 th 

FLAXBOURNE 

A&PSHOW 

SUNDAY22MARCH 

Weld Park,Ward 

FREETRADE & 

CRAFT SITES 

available on application 

BernadetteGilmore 

0276886 533 

flaxbourneshow@gmail.com 

Advertising Sales Consultant 

We’vebeen publishing in Marlboroughfor 

23 years and are the region’smost read and 

most trusted newspaper. 

We’re looking foranatural communicator 

with aknack forcreativeproblem-solving. 

Someone that thrives on building relationships 

and driving resultsand solutions forour valued 

advertisers. 

Join our awesome fun team and help local 

businesses grow! This positionisbased at 

our Blenheim office,and youwillneedavalid 

driver’slicence. 

The ideal teammatewill possessthe followingqualities: 

• Not afraid to knock on doors and meet newpeople 

• Able to think creatively and develop solutionsfor clients (training provided) 

• Ahigh levelofself-motivation, integrity,strongteam work ethic, and the 

ability to work to deadlines 

• Asense of humour and team collaboration 

We offer: 

• Base salary +commissionpackage +KiwiSaver 

• MondaytoFridayrole+hours to be negotiated 

• Agreat team environment with plenty of support 

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

Please email simon@blenheimsun.co.nz with a 

brief outline of your experience and whyyou 

thinkyou would be agoodfit forour team. 

Marlborough 

Womens Club 

AGM 

6th March 2026 

2pm 

12 Battys Rd 

Springlands 

WE NEED MORE 

PATROLLERS! 

Become atrained volunteerand work directly with front-line 

Police staffinMarlborough. 

txt talk 

Text your thoughts 

to: 027 2425266 

Youwillbeonthe lookoutfor suspicious behaviour,stolenvehicles, 

wanted persons, unsafe premises,vandalism andalsohelpmembers of 

ourcommunity whoare in need of assistance should theirvehicle break 

down,belostand need some direction, or in need of medicalattention. 

Anyone canapply if youare of good characterand arewanting to do 

some very rewardingvolunteeringwithagreatteamofpeopleand want 

to help deterand reduce crimeinour community. 

Notice of agm 

Notice is giveNthatthe 82 nd 

aNNualgeNeralmeetiNg of 

the graham veteriNary club 

of marlborough iNc, will 

be held oN 27th february2026, 

at the woodbourNetaverN 

restauraNtat7pm 

business 

1. to confirmthe minutes of the81 st agm. 

2. The adoptionofthe chairman’s report. 

3. The confirmation of theannualaccounts 

forthe year 31 st of march2025. 

4. to electacommittee. 

5. to setthe honorariafor thechair and 

vice-chairand thefee formeeting 

attendance. 

6. to setthe subscriptionsfor thecurrent 

financial year. 

7. agreetore-registerunder The 

incorporated societiesact 2022. 

8. approvethe newconstitution. 

9. generalbusiness 

it taylor 

secretary 

Visiting podiatrist 

at Marlborough 

Health Hub 

1 st Wednesday 

of the month. 

Veterans Affairs accredited 

To book an appointment 

email info@mobilepod.nz 

(fastest) or leave a 

message on 

022 419 0205 (slower) 

txt talk 

Text your thoughts 

to: 027 2425266 

MARLBOROUGH 

“The heavy work 

done for you” 

Clothing Alterations: 

by Lynette 

Atkinson-Parker 

For your sewing requirements 

Phone 03 578 1010 

or 027 578 1010 

Quality Service Guaranteed 

TheAdventure Begins Here 

1st Blenheim Boys’ Brigade is starting for 2026 2025 

Monday 17 th 

February 

For boys years 2-13 (6 -18 years old) 

TERM 1: 

• 17 Feb -Fishing expedition atthe Diversion 

• 24 Feb -Wakeboarding &Biscuiting onthe River 

• 3 March -Guns; Bows &Arrows 

• 10 March -Kayaking (Older Boys) &Bike Ride 

• 17 March -Kayaking (Younger Boys) &Athletics 

• 24 March–Disc Golf 

• 31 March –Cooking up astorm 

• 7April –Bonfireonthe beach–weather permitting 

Contact: ChrisLane, 

Company Captain 

Ph 578 6140 or 0274 579 004 

e-mail: chris@firstlane.nz 

In Memoriam 

Remember your lost loved 

oneontheir anniversary. 

The deadline is Monday5.00pm.Please contact the Sun for 

furtherdetails. 72 High Street,Blenheim, email 

office@blenheimsun.co.nz or phone 577 7868. 

Proudly supported by 

FURNITURE 

MOvING 

RELOCATION 

STORAGE 

FREIGHT & 

DISTRIBUTION 

pH: 027 211 1908 /03577 7222 A1contracting.co.nz 

Locally owned family business 

Findout more aboutCPNZand applybyvisitingwww.cpnz.org.nz 

Lodgeanenquirythrough the'Becoming apatroller'pageoremail your 

contactdetails to thefollowing foreitherthe Blenheim or Picton patrol team 

-blenheim@cpnz.org.nzorpicton@cpnz.org.nz 

Community Patrol 

Join our team and help 

reduce crime in Marlborough 

Want to 

advertise your 

Phone5777868 

txt talk 

Gotanimportant issueto 

sharewith Marlborough? 

Text your thoughts to: 

027242 5266

26 


URGENT 

services 

Urgent Care Centre: Wairau Hospital 

Grounds. Entry offHospital Rd,Blenheim, 

8am-8pm daily. Phone (03)520 6377. 

Ambulance: Urgent111. Non urgent 578 

0797. 

After Hours Chemists: Springlands 

Pharmacy: Monday -Friday 8.30am - 

6pm.Saturday 9m -5pm. Sunday closed. 

Public Holidays -phoneustobeadvised. 

After Hours Chemists. Phone number is 

035782271 

Community Care Pharmacy: Within the 

Blenheim Warehouse,open 7days 9am- 

6pm. Closed on Public Holidays. 

Lifeline Marlborough: 0800 543354, 24hr 

helpline. 

Women’s Refuge and Sexual Violence 

Support Centre Marlborough: Crisis 

line number phone 0800 refuge or 

03 5779939. 

Victim Support: 0800 VICTIM (0800 842 

846) 

Alcoholics Anonymous: 0800 AA WORKS 

-0800 229 6757. 

Citizens Advice Bureau: Free, friendly, 

confidential advice. Mon -Fri 9.30am - 

4pm. Phone 5784272. 

Wairau Hospital: Hospital Visiting Hours: 

Daily 2.30pm -8pm, children under 12 

mayvisit parents only. 

Maternity Ward: 10am-noon,4pm-7pm. 

Children's Ward: Daily 10am-8pm. Visiting 

at all times is subject to the discretion of 

the nurse in charge of the ward. 

Emergency Dentist: Contact Wairau 

Hospital 5209999. 

Picton: 

Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non-urgent 579 

4870. 

Chemist: Picton Healthcare Pharmacy. Ph 

573 6420 Mon -Fri 8.30-5.30pm, Sat 9-2pm. 

Medical Centre Pharmacy, Ph928 4265, 

Mon-Fri 8am-5.30pm 

Golf 

Results 

Picton Golf Club 

Sun1Feb OpeningDay American ForesomesNett: 

FrankBurns/Penny Edwards 

62, Jock Mannington/Judy Jones 63, 

Anita/Tim McCaffrey 66, Robert Lopez/ 

TomBainbridge66, AaronWilson/Hiram 

Taylor 66, Trevor Gullery/Ellie Gillies 

66.Thurs 5Feb S/F: Hiram Taylor 40, Ian 

Johnson39, Paul Howden 37,Guy Latham 

35,Tim McCaffrey 35,GaryAldridge35. 

Sat 7Feb Par: Harry Schat +2, Mark 

Ivamy +2, Richard McLean +1, Maria 

McConway 0, John Saxon0,Jeff Pascoe0, 

Brian Carver 0, AnitaMcCaffrey0. 

Thurs12Feb S/F: HarrySchat 40,Minty 

Molloy 39,MarkIvamy 38,JackWicks 38, 

John Saxon37, Ezra Kahaki 36,Blair Bavin 

36,WadeCollett 35,Ali Baxter 35. 

Fri13Feb 9H S/F: LynettePearce22, Sue 

Latimer21, Maggie Donelly16, Margaret 

Frisken. 

In Memoriam 

Remember your lost loved 

one on theiranniversary. 

The deadline is Monday5.00pm.Please contact the Sunfor 

further details. 72 High Street,Blenheim, email 

office@blenheimsun.co.nz or phone 577 7868. 

HILL, Micheal Sydney(Mike). 

Passed away peacefully on Thursday 12th 

February, just nine days short ofhis 75th 

birthday. Beloved husband of Kathy for 52 

years. Proud father toNick and Monique. 

Cherished byNick’s partner Taz. Messages 

of condolence to the Hill family c/- POBox 

9Blenheim, 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. 

The family wishes to thank the 

amazing staff atthe Marlborough Hospice 

for their exceptional care and the dignity 

they provided Mike inhis last days. Aservice 

celebrating Mike’s life will be held at 

the Picton Baptist Church, Waikawa Road, 

Picton on Thursday 19th February at1pm 

followed by afternoon tea at the Queen 

Charlotte Yacht Club. Arecording ofthe 

service will later bemade available onthe 

Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website. 

CloudyBay Funerals 

03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z. 

HODGETTS, Alison Jane (Ali). 

Passed away peacefully at Hospice Marlborough 

on 31 January 2026, with family by 

her side, aged 57years. Loved sister toPam 

and Des, Gary and Bev, and the late Ken, 

amuch-loved aunty toall her nieces and 

nephews. Messages tothe Hodgetts family 

c/o Cloudy Bay Funeral Services PO Box 

9 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. 

Thanks to the caring staff atIdea Services 

andHospice Marlborough. An informal memorial 

service for Ali has been held. 


03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z. 

Death notices 

BEST: John William. 

Passed away peacefully on Friday 13 February 

2026 aged 94 years. Much loved husband 

of Mary. Father and father-in-law of 

Janette and Tom, Helen and Dean, Vincent 

and Corrina, Geoff and Sandra, Clare and 

Pat. Grandfather ofMatthew, Daniel, Tom, 

Katy,Alahna, Finn, Nithen,Jayden, Natalie, 

Liam, Laura. Great-Grandfather to Chas, 

Maddie and Leo. Messages tothe Best family 

c/- POBox 9Blenheim 7240 or www. 

cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. A requiem mass 

will be held at St Mary’s Catholic Church, 

Maxwell Rd, Blenheim on Thursday 19 

February at 11am followed byprivate cremation. 

The service for John will be livestreamed 

and can be viewed on the Cloudy 

Bay Funeral Services website. 


03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z. 

GARDINER, Terence Leonard. 

Passed away on Saturday, February 14, 

2026, at Hospice Marlborough. Aged 92 

years.Lovedhusband of thelateJoanfor 57 

years. Father and father-in-law of Annette 

Kaye and Tim Fuller, Yvonne and Euan 

Thomson, Robyn and Roy Sixtus, Gaye and 

Gary Walker, Julie and Nigel Martin, Rob 

Gardiner andSally Costigan.Grandadof18 

and great-grandad of23. Grateful thanks to 

Hospice Marlborough, Dr Sam Penny, and 

Wairau Hospital staff. Messages may be 

sent to the Gardiner family at 63 Litchfield 

Street, Redwoodtown, Blenheim 7201. A 

service forTerence will be held at Sowman’s 

MayfieldChapel, cnr. Hutchesonand Parker 

Streets, at 1.30pm, onThursday, February 

19. The service will be livestreamed and 

details may beviewed at: www.sowmans. 

co.nz/upcoming-funerals. 

ORTON: Patricia May. 

03.04.194 to 14.02.2026 Passedawaypeacefully 

in hersleep aged 84. Dearly lovedwife 

of Noel (deceased), Adored mum toGarry 

and Teena, Trudy, Wayne and Ozlem, and 

Glenn. Treasured nanny and great nanny 

Pat. Messages tothe Orton family c/- PO 

Box 9Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz 

Aprivate family service will 

be held. 


03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z. 

SHADBOLT, RichardFrederick (Ricky). 

Passedawaypeacefully at AberleighVillage 

on Friday, 13th February 2026, in his 83rd 

year. Dearly loved fiance of the late Karen 

McGill, and dear friend ofthe McGill Family. 

Brother of Mary. Much loved friend of 

many, especially Chris and Greg Sutton. 

Messages for Ricky’s loved ones may be 

sent toPOBox 110, Blenheim 7240, or can 

be made via www.sowmans.co.nz/upcoming-funerals/ 

Aprivate cremation has been 

held. 

TWIDLE, Lynette Ethel (Bub). 

Passed away peacefully on Friday, 13th 

February 2026, 79yrs. Dearly loved wife 

of the late Allan. Dearly loved mother and 

mother-in-law ofDebbie, Michelle, Steven 

and Ngaire. Loved sister and sister-in-law 

of Denny and Audrey Greer. Loved Nana 

of her grand and great-grandchildren. Dear 

friend ofMoira, Jerry, Pete, Tilly and so 

many others.Messagesfor theTwidleFamily 

may besent to1Kowhai Drive, Renwick 

7204. In keeping with Lynn’s wishes, aprivate 

ceremony will be held. 

WELCH, AllanHenry. 

retired RNZAF, passed away peacefully on 

10th February 2026, at Aberleigh Village in 

Blenheim. Loving husband of Cheralyn (deceased) 

and brother ofDrRogerTWelch of 

the Gold Coast.Ahuge thanks to the caring 

and considerate staff atWairau and Nelson 

Hospitals, Hospice Marlborough, Access 

and Aberleigh Retirement Village. AtAl’s 

request aprivate cremation and memorial 

service has been held. All communications 

to WELCH Family C/- Sowmans Funeral 

Services,POBox 110, Blenheim. 

Acknowledgements 

SAVILLE-SMITH, Elizabeth. 

In loving memory of adearly beloved sister, 

Elizabeth, who passed away peacefully 

at Marlborough Hospice onthe 7th of 

February 2026. A much-loved sister and 

friend ofCaroline and the late Sheila and 

Charles. Many thanks for all who cared for 

her so well over the last days of her life. 

Always remembered with love. 

Allyourcommunity news 

nowalsoonthe 

Blenheim Sun Facebook page 


Wanted 

ANY VIDEO GAMES wanted play station, 

xbox, nintendo, sega, atari, vintage etc Pennylane,Sydenham, 

Christchurch,7days, 021 

222 6144 

7”, 45’s, singles, eps records wanted, any 

amount top prices paid. Pennylane Records 

430Colombo Street,SydenhamringDave021 

222 6144, 7days. 

MUSIC TAPESwantedbylocal andoverseas 

bands, especially Flying Nun, Xpressway, 

Onset Offset Failsafe, Private press, etc any 

amount,excellent prices paid.Pennylane Records, 

021222 6144,Sydenham, Christchurch, 

7days 

GIG POSTERSwantedbylocal andoverseas 

bands. Excellent prices paid especially for 

hand pulled or silk screen posters. Will pay 

$1000 for Suburban Reptiles Sat Night. Any 

amount. Dave 021 222 6144, Pennylane Records, 

Sydenham, Christchurch, 7days. 

PENNYlANE Records always buying records. 

Excellent prices paid, 430 Colombo 

Street, Sydenham, 366 3278, open 7days 

For Sale 

SUNbURST yacht with trailer. Phone 

035736574. 


DoUblE Glazing -Beat the rush with Marlborough 

Glass. Stay warm, dry, and healthy 

with Retro-fit Double Glazing for your Timber 

and Aluminium Windows. DON’T DELAY - 

TALK TO US TODAY FOR AFREE MEASURE 

AND QUOTE! Ph578-5374. 

MARlboRoUGHHUNTING &FISHING 

Come down to Marlborough Hunting 

and Fishing for all your outdoor needs. 

46 Main Street,Blenheimph03579 1600 

GOLD & 

SILVER CASH 

BUYER 

Payuptothe following 

prices:$100- $3000 Gold 

&Silver Watches $1000- 

$10000 Gold Nuggets 

$100-$3000 Gold,Silver 

Chains,Bangles,Bracelets 

$1800 Sovereigns $2000 

SovereignCases $100- $500 

Gold Wedding Rings $5000 

Diamond Rings $100-$300 

Silver &GoldMedals, Bar 

Brooches,Pendants, Tie 

Pins,Cameos,Vesta Boxes, 

Lodge Medals. $10000 Silver 

Ware,Canteen Cutlery, 

Coffee &Tea ServiceCups, 

Silver Trays, PhotoFrames, 

Urns,Vinaigrettes, Snuff 

Boxes, Thimbles.$5000 

Bronze&Marble Deco 

Figures &Lamps. 

Buyanythingold & 

interesting. Will call 

anywhere 

Phone Murray 021-441 400 

www.sowmans.co.nz 

03 - 578 4719 

COLLECTOR 

ANYTHING 

OLDAND 

INTERESTING! 

PAYUPTOTHE 

FOLLOWING 

PRICES: 

$2,500 No.1 Plane, 

$1,000 Work Bench. 

Tool Chest. 

$500 Wooden and 

BrassBrace andBits, 

$100 Scribes, 

Draw Knife, PlumbBob, 

Chisels, Glue Pots, 

SpokeShaves, 

Padlockand Keys,Squares, 

Trammels,TackHammers, 

Oilers,Wood Vice. 

Also $15,000 Petrol Pumps, 

$2,000 MetalSigns, 

$1,000 Floor Safe,Mechanical 

MoneyBoxes, 

ToyTin PlateToys, Trucks, 

Cars,Ships,Boats,Motorbikes. 

$3,000 Full SteamTraction 

EnginesModels. 

Also wantingFlintLockRifles, 

Pistols, Powder Flasks, 

Swords,Percussion Bayonets, 

Helmets, WWar Medals, 

FishingRods, Reels, Gaffs, 

LandingNets, Creel. 

Allfor PrivateMuseum. 

Will Call Anywhere. 

Murray 021-441-400. 

We’ll handle the details so you can focus on 

what truly matters. 

Unique farewells, arranged with love. 

Visit usonline at 

blenheimsun.co.nz


what’s on in Sunny Marlborough 


27 

Monday 

PokemonTrading andGameplay 

–Tabletop Café, Scott Street. 4pm Come along 

and trade cards, get out your battle decks and 

have trainerbattle. 

Picton Senior Citizens Club 

–Meets every Monday, 1.30pm atUnion Parish 

Church Picton. Housie, raffles and all sorts. Ph 

Sandy5738324 

Rotary ClubsinBlenheim 

-Monday &Tuesday evenings at 5.30pm. Rotary 

isaworld-wideservice clubfor menand women, 

doinggreatthingsinyourcommunity. Forfurther 

detailsphone Kevinon0211738 784. 

Blenheim Scottish CountryDance Club 

-Every Monday at 7.00pm at St AndrewsChurch 

Hall, Corner Alfred and Henry Street, Blenheim. 

Come and try it! You don’t need apartner. For 

informationringHeather 02102587325. 

BeginnersLineDancing 

-SeniorCitizen Hall,172 High Street,2:00-3:00pm 

&6.00-7.00pm.Comealong andenjoy themusic, 

make newfriends,havefun andlearn to dance. 

You don’t need apartner.All welcomeand childrenover12.Firstlessonfreethen$7 

perclass.For 

informationphoneJudith5787554or0212341095. 

Care andShare craftsession 

-Run at Nativity in conjunctionwithGreen Prescription. 

Everysecond Monday untilDecember 

9:30-11:30 am.Foranyonewholoves doingcrafts, 

aplace to create,chatwithlike-minded creatives, 

share ideas, learn new crafting skills and make 

friends.FormoredetailscontactNativityoffice578 

3909orGreenPrescriptionatthePHO. Freeevent. 

Marlborough Stamp Collectors Club 

-34ArthurBaker Pace. Phone 021157 3496 for 

moreinformation. 

Rotary ClubsinBlenheim 

-Monday &Tuesday evenings at 5.30pm. Rotary 

is aworld-wideservice clubfor menand women, 

doinggreatthingsinyourcommunity. Forfurther 

detailsphone Kevinon0211738 784. 

Tuesday 

Hobbies, Clubs and Groups 

Friendship Club Marlborough 

-SemiRetired or Retired. Meet 4thTuesday of the 

month 10am at St Mary’s Parish Centre,Maxwell 

Road.Speakers, outingsall in Friendship, Fellowship&Fun.Les 

McKay5778207 or 021463922 

Toastmasters Club 

-InBlenheim meets 1st&3rd Tuesday, 6:30pm, 

Community Centre, St Mary’s, 59 Maxwell 

Road. Friendly group that encourages people. 

Learn how to give aspeech, how totell stories, 

how to make business presentations etc. Ideal 

foryoung people entering theworkforce.Older 

adultsarewelcometo sharetheirexperiences.No 

chargeforguests.Contact:Vivienne021 0544003. 

LionsClubofHavelock 

-ProvidingcommunityserviceinthePelorusarea. 

Meeting every 3rd Tuesday, atHavelock Hotel. 

InquiriestoIan Cameronphone 5742558. 

Knitters andSpinners 

-PictonLibraryandService Centrefrom10.30am. 

Bringyourmorning teaalong andcurrent project 

to work on.Share your ideas, skills or simply enjoy 

timewithfellowcreators.There’s noneedtobook 

aspot, simply turn up on theday. 

PICTON LINE DANCE. 

AnglicanChurchHall,10-11.30.Cost$7. Beginners 

welcome. For more info -Carol 021-2125252 or 

Raewyn 021-715484. 

RenwickArmsCountry Club,CardSection 

-1pmRedwoodTavern,CleghornStreet.Meetand 

playEUCHRE.Beginnersarewelcometolearnand 

play.$7PhChristine 0272077631. 

Pencil Pals 

-meets at Connect, corner of High Street and 

BeaverRoadeveryTuesday 1.00to 3.00pm.Come 

andjoinSydneyandIssietopracticeyourdrawing 

skills and enjoy the company of like-minded 

people. Sydney0211568398; Issie0204668008. 

Wednesday 

Marlborough CommunitySingers 

–All welcomewhether completely neworanold 

hand. Noaudition. NewtermbeginsWednesday 

October8th at REAP, 6.30pm-8.30pm. $9 casual. 

Ph Amanda 022642 4805. 

Senior Citizens Club Blenheim 

–Every 2nd an4th Wednesday ofthe month. 

2pm,SeniorCitizensClubrooms,172HighStreet, 

Blenheim. An entertaining afternoonincluding 

aguest speaker, Housie, and afternoon tea 

provided. Allwelcome.PhShirley 0210388616. 

BlenheimProbus 

–First Wednesday ofthe month, 10am LansdowneHub.For 

retiredorsemiretireeslooking 

for fun, friendship and fellowship. Ph Anne 

5787046,0226353919. 

Lions’ Club of Blenheim 

-Liketoknowmoreabout theLion’sClub? Meet 

on the1st and3rd Wednesdayofthe month. For 

moredetailsContactDelphineLee0299425004. 

PictonMahjong 

-Marina Cove Club Room, 53 Waikawa Road, 

Pictonat1pm.Phone Adrianne 02102591639or 

Kaye 0211312331 formoreinformation. 

Blenheim Rock NRollClubNights 

-7.30-9.30pm: Top of the South Rock nRoll 

Club,clubnightsatthe Blenheim BowlingClub, 

bring comfyshoes andwater.Great music, have 

fun and exercise atthe same time. Phone Erin 

0272341709. 

Picton Scottish CountryDance Group 

-7.30pm at Picton Little Theatre. Beginners 

welcome. First nightfree. No partnerneeded 

just apairofsoftsoled shoes. PhoneLynda on 

0212600860 forfurther information. 

Picton Cribbage Club 

–PictonLibrary.Wednesdays1pm-3pm. 

Marlborough VintageCar Club 

-1:30-3:30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, 

Blenheim. Other times byarrangement. Ph 

Ross 0272122902. Donation appreciated. New 

Members welcome 

Thursday 

Marlborough Camera Club 

-meetings on2nd Thursday ofthe month at 

St Mary’s Community Centre, Maxwell Rdat 

7pm.Workshops areheldonthe 4thThursday 

of the month. Everybody with aninterest in 

photographywelcome. 

Picton Poets 

–Held the 4th Thursday ofthe month, 10.30- 

11.30am, Picton Library, allwelcome.Phone Lyn 

021 1294342. 

UlyssesRetreadsGroup 

-11am at Brayshaw Park everyThursday. Ride to 

variousdestinationsforlunch. Bringyourlaughinggear, 

athermal to wear andastory to share. 

LibraryBookClub 

-6.30pm-8pmMarlborough DistrictLibrary.We 

meet on thelastThursdayofthe month. Simply 

bringabooktorecommend to othermembers, 

andenjoylisteningtoothermember’s (including 

librarians)bookpicks. 

Picton LibraryBookClub 

-6.30pm-8pm-PictonLibrary andService Centre. 

Join us in meetingnew people andchatting 

aboutbooks.Wemeetonthe first Thursday of 

each month. To register email pictonlibrary@ 

marlborough.govt.nz. 

Knit andNatter 

-Marlborough Library from 10am.Comealong 

and join the friendly group ofsocial knitters 

upstairs in thelibrary each Thursday morning. 

Bringalong your knitting projectand/orget inspirationfromotherknitters.Noneedtoregister. 

Blenheim Nightriders 

-Weekly, local, off-roadbikerides 10-40kms for 

fitness,socialandsafety.Meetatthelibrary, leaving8pm 

forapprox 2hrs.Nofee,super casual. 

More info on Facebook, Blenheim Nightriders 

grouporcontact info@ridethewhale.co.nz. 

Friday 

Blenheim FamilyHistory GroupinPicton 

-PictonLibrary on the1st and3rd Friday of the 

month, 1.30pm-3.30pm. Need help with your 

family history research? Meet members ofthe 

Blenheim Family HistoryGroup.Contact Helen 

0210390106. 

Marlborough Vintageand Farm Machinery 

Society 

-BrayshawHeritage Park,openweekdays10.00 

am -3.00 pmand Saturday mornings. For 

further details contact Gerard (Secretary) 022 

0392460. 

Saturday 

Marlborough Quilters meeting 

-every 2ndSaturdayofthe monthatMarlborough 

Vintage and Farm Machinery, Brayshaw 

Park.10am-4pm.Learn quilting or bringyour 

own projects. Sewing Machines available. 

Newcomerswelcome.Liz 0212067382. 

Blenheim ChessClub 

-Meets at Table Top Café, Scott Street, every 

Saturday 10am –1pm.All welcome. 

UlyssesClub 

- Every Saturday, coffee at The Runway Café, 

Woodbourne, 10am. Depart The Runway at 

10.30am. 

Sunday 

UlyssesSocialRide 

-Sunday rides are now by WhatsApp under 

Marlborough Ulysses lets ride. All rides are 

weatherdependent. 

MarlboroughVintage CarClub 

-1:30-3:30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, 

Blenheim. Other times byarrangement. Ph 

Ross 0272122902. Donation appreciated. New 

memberswelcome 

BlenheimBonsaiGroup 

-Islington Gardens, Rowberry Road on the 2nd 

Sunday of themonth 1pm-3.30pm. 

Forest &BirdTalk 

MarlboroughDistrictCouncil Catchment 

Care –Working with Landowners to 

improve environmental outcomes, 7.00 

pm, Thursday 19th February, Blenheim 

School Hall, gold coin donation please. 

Allwelcome. 

RaybonKan:Raybonanza 

Comedy Show 

Saturday 28February, Picton Little 

Theatre. Award-winning comic Raybon 

Kan celebrates his 31st anniversary in 

stand-up with his greatest hits show 

Raybonanza. $35 +fees onEventfinda 

or $40onthe door.Doors open 6.30pm. 

Show starts at 7pm. 

Crop Swap 

Crossroads Cafe Redwood Street, 2pm 

sharp, every3rd Saturdayofthe month. 

Swapbeginsat2.30pm.$2kohaforhosts. 

Connect with like-minded people and 

help foster sustainablefoodproduction. 

Give generously,takemindfully. 

Alzheimer’s 

Marlborough Book Fair 

Saturday 21 and Sunday 22February. 

9am-3pm, Alzheimer’s Centre, Wither 

Road.Annual book fair includingbooks, 

mags,puzzles,raffles,garagesaletable, 

kindling, and asausage sizzle. Eftpos 

availableand free parking. 

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