Blenheim Sun: April 08, 2026

April 8, 2026 | LOCAL PEOPLE - LOCAL VIEWS-LOCAL NEWS 

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Fighting 

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Pete Hall makes the most of specially 

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Photo: PaulaHulburt. 

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2 

Wednesday April 8, 2026 

The Blenheim 

Advertise with us, 

and grow more sales 

and customers. 

Anew chapterfor 

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We’re here tohelp 

Advertising: 

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Follow the Blenheim Sun on 

Marlborough’s favourite read. 

There’safreshbuzzaround 

Picton’s property market, 

with HarcourtsMarlborough 

stepping in to lead the local 

office and bring new energy 

to theregion. 

With more than 35 years’ 

experience in Marlborough, 

Harcourts Marlborough is 

one ofthe longest standing 

Harcourts offices in New 

Zealand, and the move into 

Picton is allabout strengtheningwhat’salready 

here while 

openingupnew opportunities 

forthe community. 

What was once ateam of 

twowillnow be backed by a 

wider network of more than 

25 sales consultants across 

Marlborough. Forlocalslookingtobuy,thatmeans 

access 

to over 60 properties across 

Picton andthe Sounds,along 

with thereach of theregion’s 

largestrealestateteam. 

Forthose thinking of selling, 

the benefits come through in 

adifferent way; more people 

working onyour property, 

smarter marketing, and the 

use ofadvanced technology 

to connect with buyers both 

locallyand beyond. 

Principal Mark Davis says 

the focus is firmly onpeople, 

results and experience. 

“Picton isaspecial place 

with its own unique market. 

We’reproud to be part of the 

HARCOURTSPICTONISUNDER NEWMANAGEMENT: HarcourtsMarlborough hastaken the 

reins, bringing 35 yearsoftrusted localexperienceand ushering in anew erafor real estate in 

Picton.The HarcourtsPictonteamoutside theirnew office. Photosupplied. 

community and to bring the 

experience,support andscale 

that helps both buyers and 

sellersget greatresults.” 

The move isalso creating 

new job opportunities, with 

the team set to grow and 

provide pathways for both 

experiencedagentsand those 

looking tostart acareer in 

real estate.“With that growth 

comesopportunity.Ifanyone 

in Picton or the Sounds has 

been considering acareer 

in real estate, I’d absolutely 

welcome aconversation. It’s 

an exciting time to be joining 

theindustryand ourteam.” 

Alongside sales, Harcourts 

Marlborough isintroducing 

its award-winning Property 

Management team to Picton, 

giving local landlords access 

to ahigher level of care and 

supportfor theirinvestments. 

Abig part of that community 

focus comes through 

the Harcourts Foundation. 

Since its launch in 2008, the 

Foundation has raised more 

than $10 million, supporting 

charities, community 

groups and families inneed 

across New Zealand. “We’re 

genuinely excited to be part 

of the Picton community,” 

Mark says. “The Harcourts 

Foundation is somethingwe’re 

incredibly proud of, and it 

createsareal opportunityfor 

localorganisations to connect 

in andbenefit. We’relooking 

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April 8, 2026 | LOCAL PEOPLE - LOCAL VIEWS-LOCAL NEWS 

MEET OUR BLENHEIM TEAM 

Marlboroughsrural 

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WHY MORE TRAVELLERS ARE TURNING BACK 

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While technology has made it easier than ever to book flights or hotels online, 

many travellers are rediscovering the value of having a real person guiding their 

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We have a team of experienced consultants who have 

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From navigating complex itineraries to 

recommending places that don’t always appear in 

online searches, their role is often less about booking 

and more about helping travellers make confident 

decisions. 

“We find some really hidden gems for our clients” 

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“We are passionate about people and want your 

journey to start the moment you walk through our 

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“Our job is really about understanding what matters to someone and shaping a trip 

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With travel continuing to evolve in 2026, from changing airline routes to shifting 

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“Travel should feel exciting, not overwhelming,” the team explains. “What we try to 

do is remove the stress and make sure people feel supported before they go, while 

they’re away, and when they return home.” 

For many travellers, that reassurance is exactly why they are returning to Travel 

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Travel trends continue to evolve, 

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Whether you are looking for a 

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Record number ofrecruits 

graduate from RNZAF 

By PaulaHulburt 

The largest contingent of recruits 

in more than twodecades 

has graduated from RNZAF 

Base Woodbourne. 

Eighty-nine recruits gathered 

to mark their graduation day in 

frontofproud family andfriends 

on Thursday. 

As thelastnotes of theRNZAF 

Haka ended, recruitcoursegraduateserupted 

in joy, huggingand 

congratulating each other. 

The moment marks the end of 

achallenging 12-week initial 

training course. 

And for one Aircraftman who 

grew up near the Base, he was 

following inhis father’s footsteps. 

Aircraftman Sean Sloan from 

Renwick was among the graduation 

class. It was his dad, 

Sergeant Stewart Sloan, who 

inspired hisdecisionhesays. 

“Seeing him and the work he 

does in an organisation that 

helps people, was definitely my 

inspiration.” 

In front ofthe Reviewing Officer 

GroupCaptain SteveHunt, 

RNZAFChief Engineer,recruits 

took theirfirstformalsteps as the 

newest personnel. 

Commanding Officer Ground 

Training Wing Commander 

Mark Henderson said the training 

they had completed was 

deliberately challenging. 

“It isdesigned toinstil core 

military attributes, discipline, 

resilience, teamwork and an air 

war fighter ethos, essential for 

operationaleffectiveness. 

“It has been aprivilege for the 

instructors and staff at Woodbourne 

to guide these Aviators 

at the start of their Service 

journey…” 

As the sun shone, would-be 

graduates watched as trophy 

recipients collectedtheir honours 

before theFinal Marchpast. This 

was followed byaDrill display 

andaPhysical Training display. 

Sean, who went to Renwick 

School and Marlborough Boys’ 

College, said thecoursehad been 

demanding. 

Set tostart his training in 

Avionics soon, hehopes to one 

dayjointhe SpecialForces. 

“It’s been intense and Ididn’t 

think I’d have the guts. There 

were momentswhenIwanted to 

leavebut Istuck it outand it’s the 

best thingI’veeverdone. 

“I’ve made friends here that I 

thinkI’llhaveuntil theday Idie. 

If you’re thinking about joining 

the RNZAF, just doit, you’ll 

neverregretit.” 

See next week’s Blenheim Sun 

for more photos ofthe Graduation 

Parade. 

Wednesday April 8, 2026 3 

inbrief 

The Sun 

Cyclelanechanges 

Changestothe Eltham Road cyclelane 

will start after the Easter break, timed 

to coincide with the school holidays to 

reduce impact onusers. Marlborough 

Roads System Manager Wayne Oldfield 

said changes are being made following 

concerns aboutthe loss of some parking 

and property access aswell assafety 

for users. The southern bound lane will 

be closed for the duration of the works 

whichare expected to take betweentwo 

and three weeks. Heavy machinery will 

be on site. 

Acooler March 

MeteorologicaldatasummaryforMarch 

2026 from theBlenheimMeteorological 

station shows March was cooler than 

average,Blenheim’smeanairtemperature 

inMarchwas15.6°C,0.5°Cbelowthelongtermaverage(LTA).Therewerenoground 

or airfrostsrecordedduringMarch 2026. 

The coldest minimum air temperature 

was4.3°C on 2March 2026.The hottest 

maximumtemperature was29.2°Con6 

March2026,whichwas4thhottestdayfor 

Marchoverthe past 41 years(1986-2026). 

Blenheimrecorded242sunshinehoursin 

March, 108per cent of theLTA. 

26/01 Recruit Course graduate Aircraftman 

Sean Sloan with his father 

Sergeant StewartSloan. 


Recruits performthe RNZAFHaka, markingthe official endofgraduation. Photo: PaulaHulburt 

Food wastehelp 

EnvirohubMarlboroughwillbeholding 

launch eventsin Picton,onSunday2May 

at 3pm, and inBlenheim, on Tuesday 4 

Mayat6pm,tohelppeoplebecomemore 

food wastesavvy.Get tips andideas on 

how toeat more cheaply and then be 

supportedoverthe 4-week programme 

at home. Bytaking part you’ll connect 

with others,share knowledge, andhave 

funalong theway.Placesare limited. To 

signup:Visitourwebsitewww.envirohub. 

co.nz/event, or for more information, 

emaileverybite@envirohub.co.nz

4 


inbrief 


Kapa Haka qualifiers 

Te Tauihu Kapa Haka (formerly 

Te Tauihu oteWaka-a-Māui Māori 

Cultural Council) will host its main 

regional event, Kia Hūkere teHoe, 

in Wairau, for the first time since 

2013. The two-day event serves 

as the regional qualifier for next 

year’sTeManaKuratahi, thebiennial 

national primary schools kapa haka 

competition, and Te Matatini 2027. 

Secondary school teams will also be 

taking the stage to battle it out for 

regionalhonours.Kia Hūkere te Hoe 

is the pinnacle regional event, and 

aftermanyyears in WhakatūNelson, 

it is returningtoWairau. 

Theatremarks successful 

decade 

Marlborough’s newly renamed 

WhitehavenTheatreisina“verygood” 

financial position but may struggle 

to grow its revenue going forward, 

its chairman says.Marlborough Civic 

TheatreTrustchairmanKevinMoseley 

told Local Democracy Reporting on 

Friday that tenyears afterits opening 

astheASBTheatreithadsurpassedall 

expectations.“We’rethrilledwithhow 

it’sgoing,” hesaid.“We getsuchgood 

support from the local community 

... and that’s the way that wewould 

like to see [the theatre] progress.” 

Thetrust’s financial report showed a 

$71,393 profitbefore depreciation for 

theyearendingJune2025. 

Allyourcommunity news 

nowalsoonthe 

Blenheim Sun Facebook page 


Crab andsalmoncompaniesworking 

underone roof at newPictonwarehouse 

By Kira Carrington 

LDRReporter 

Anew warehouse atPicton’s 

port will bring together live crab 

processing andsalmonfeedstorage 

under one roof asMarlborough’s 

“blueeconomy”grows. 

Westshore Warehouse, onLagoonRd, 

wasopenedlastTuesday 

with adawn ceremony and a 

blessing from manawhenua Te 

Ātiawa oTeWaka-a-Māui. 

The 3200m² warehouse was 

purpose-built by the landlord 

Port Marlborough for its two 

tenants, WaikawaFishing andNew 

Zealand King Salmon, with the 

long-term servicecontractpaying 

offthe cost of construction. 

PortMarlborough chiefexecutive 

Rhys Welbourn told attendeesthe 

openingofthe warehousemarkeda 

major milestoneinthe growingaquaculture 

andseafood industries. 

“It’satestamenttothe long-term 

partnership we have with both of 

thoseorganisations,” he said. 

“It’s built on ambition; it’s built 

on thereallypractical vision to do 

thingsbetter.” 

Thewarehouse representedPort 

Marlborough’s commitment to 

investing ininfrastructure for the 

region, Rhys said. 

“It shows our willingness to 

be flexible and innovative in the 

thingsthatwedo.” 

Waikawa Fishing co-owner 

Geoff Connor told attendees the 

new warehouse came out ofthe 

business’s 45-year relationship 

with Port Marlborough. 

“Tocometothisplace todayand 

to be part of this wholeoperation, 

it’sjustreallyquite exciting,” Geoff 

said. 

The Māori-owned business was 

pioneering New Zealand’s deepsea 

crab industry, and breaking 

new ground insustainable harvesting, 

live export logistics, and 

market development. 

Waikawa Fishing would besetting 

out onan“adventure” in 

processing live crab atthe new 

facility,Geoffsaid. 

“New Zealandhas acrabindustrythatnobodyknows 

about. 

“We started here with small 

beginnings, and we hope to grow 

that, tobring more revenue into 

Marlborough for the whole community.” 

NewZealand King Salmon chief 

executive Carl Carrington said 

theopening marked an important 

milestonefor thecompany,which 

wasshiftingoperationsfromNelsontoMarlborough. 

The company was scaling up 

operations to accommodate increased 

salmon production from 

what wouldbeNew Zealand’sfirst 

open ocean salmon farm, Blue 

Celebratingthe warehouse opening, from left,PortMarlborough 

chief executive Rhys Welbourn, New Zealand King Salmon chief 

executiveCarlCarrington. Photo: Kira Carrington. 

Endeavour. Twopilot pens were 

towed out to Cook Strait late last 

year. 

Thecompany also purchasedan 

$8.14million commercial site in 

Blenheim’s Cloudy Bay Business 

Park to operate asaprocessing 

factory, expected to create up to 

100 jobs asvolumes of salmon 

harvested from Blue Endeavour 

grew. 

Carl told attendees onTuesday 

thenew warehouseinPictonwould 

bring their salmon feed supply 

closer to their new operations in 

theMarlborough Sounds. 

Previously it arrived from overseas 

into Nelson andwas brought 

into Marlboroughbytrucks. Now, 

the ships would bring it directly 

into Picton, from where it would 

be deliveredtothe farmsbyboat. 

Gettingthose trucks off theroad 

wouldbea“considerable reduction 

in ourcarbonfootprint”, alongwith 

providingresilienceand increased 

capability for the company, Carl 

said. 

Welbourn said theporthad made 

asignificant investment ininfrastructuretosupportMarlborough’s 

growing“blue economy”. 

“Thisnew facility marksthe next 

step in developing aBlueEconomy 

precinct at Westshore. It supports 

thegrowthofour aquacultureand 

seafood sectors, reduces pressure 

on theregionaltransport network, 

and enables more efficient use of 

the port’s marine infrastructure,” 

he said. 

The Westshore Warehouse was 

scheduled tobeoperational from 

late April. 

LDR islocal body journalism 

co-fundedbyRNZ andNZOnAir. 

Sevenchildren, one hip 

Janetalwaysdreamed of retiring 

to theHawke’s Bay. 

Sheand herhusband hadtalked 

about it foryears. Thewineries. 

Theorchards. Long walksthrough 

thecountryside that people 

travelledfromall overthe world 

to see. 

Andafter raisingseven children, 

surely she’dearnedthe right to 

enjoywhatcameafter. 

“I carried allseven of my kids on 

that hip,” shesays. “It’sjustwhat 

you do as amum.You don’tthink 

about what it might mean later.” 

What it meantlater wasthather 

hiprememberedevery singleone 

of them.Seven children, decades of 

carryingthem, andnow herbody 

wasaskingfor somethingback. 

Janetfound herselfcounting 

benches. Notbecauseshe collected 

them,but because everywalk 

startedwith acalculationofhow 

fartothe next one,how long before 

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Business boost as 

poolside trainer dives in 


Apersonal trainer who regularly 

refers her clients for 

therapeutic massage, likes 

the business somuch, she’s 

bought it. 

Blenheim’s Tania Horton is 

theproud newowner of Total 

Body Rehab. The Personal 

Trainerofthe Year finalist, also 

knownasThe AquaticPT, took 

over the Stadium 2000-based 

business last Wednesday. 

Thecompanies areagood fit, 

shesays. 

“EmmaVienings, theprevious 

owner, and Iwould refer 

clients toeach other all the 

time,soitjustmadesense.” 

Taniasaysshe took up aquatic 

coaching after abad injury 

saw her start swimming in 

abid to keep fit when she 

couldn’t run. 

“I’d swim 80 lengths orso 

andIwasbored outofmytree! 

Iwentwithmymum to an aqua 

aerobics class and discovered 

anewfound respect for what 

wastraditionally perceivedas 

an activity for older people,” 

shesays. 

“It’smuchharderthanpeople 

thinkand surprisingly,people 

often feel more comfortable 

in their togs than they doin 

thegym.” 

Themum of three, andproud 

grandmother toher ninemonth-old 

grandson, says the 

pool is alow-impact space to 

exercise.Watchingher clients 

become fitter, both physically 

and mentally, is what drives 

her, sheexplains. 

“I sawthere wasagapinthe 

market forpeopletobeableto 

move freely,ifthey’dhad surgery 

for example, orarthritis 

or even just neverexercised. 

“It’s been inspirational. It’s 

notjustabout gettingstronger; 

it’s theflow on affectithas and 

howithelps everyone. 

“The idea is that we integrate 

theaquatic partinto TotalBody 

Rehabfor pre- or post-surgery 

clients orwhen the body just 

isn’tworking well.” 

Tania says while she isexcited 

about the future, buying 

anew business isalso a 

nerve-wracking move. 

“I am nervouswiththe economylikeitisbut 

lookingafter 

your physical andmentalwell 

being issomething Ihope 

people continue with. 

“Familyismyfirstpriority, it 

always will be,and that’s why 

Iworksohard.” 

Personal trainerTaniaHortonisthenew ownerofTotal BodyRehab,which 

shewillrun alongsideher aquaticcoaching. Photo: PaulaHulburt. 


inbrief 


Slip site update 

Significant earthworks have been 

completed onthe large slip, 17km 

up Northbank Road. Since January, 

about18,300cubic metres of material 

has been removed from the slip face, 

enough to fill seven Olympic-sized 

swimming pools. With this stage of 

work completed, the construction 

closures at the site have paused and 

the road iscurrently open under 

traffic lights, with delays of up to five 

minutes. Road closures are planned 

from Monday 13 April toFriday 24 

April between Monday to Saturday 

from 8.30am to 12pm and12.30pm to 

4.30pm. 

PrimaryTeachers’ pay 

settlement 

EducationMinisterEricaStanfordhas 

welcomed the successful conclusion 

of negotiations to renew the Primary 

Teachers’CollectiveAgreement(PTCA). 

Aballot onApril 2with members of 

the NZEI returned amajority vote to 

ratify thecollectiveagreement.“Over 

460,000 students receive instruction 

and guidance from talented primary 

teachers every day. Their dedication 

builds the foundational knowledge 

everylearnerneedstoachievetheirfull 

potentialastheyprogressthrough our 

education system,” MsStanford says. 

Themovewillsee payincreases of up 

to 4.7per cent. 

news tips 

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news@blenheimsun.co.nz 

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6 



Marlboroughtheatrebecomes 

Whitehaven Theatre 

Kira Carrington 

LDRReporter 

“I reckon that sign looks like it 

wasalwaysthere,” says Marlborough 

Civic Theatre Trust chairman 

Kevin Moseley, looking up 

at Marlborough’snewly renamed 

Whitehaven Theatre. 

The new name and new sign 

were unveiled with aribbon-cutting 

on Monday,after Whitehaven 

Wines took over the theatre’s 

naming rights. 

Kevintoldattendees outsidethe 

front door that the day marked a 

new era for the theatre, thanks 

to Whitehaven co-founder Sue 

White, who had also been akey 

supporter ofthe theatre since 

2016. 

“We wondered what wewere 

goingtodofor newsponsorships, 

with ASBbeing theresolong, and 

it wassuggested that we must go 

and talk toSue first,” he said. 

“The answer wasalmostinstant 

andthatwas ahugeweightoffour 

shoulders.” 

Kevin thanked ASB for their 

support for decade since the 

theatre opened in2016. 

“[ASB] came on really early, 

which helped usactually get the 

project acrossthe road,” he said. 

The trust’s chief executive, 

Joseph Casalme, thankedWhitehavenWines 

forthe “investment 

in the future ofthistheatre”. 

“This partnership ensures that 

our theatre continues tobea 

hub for creativity, stories, and 

community,”Joseph said. 

“With Whitehaven’s support, 

we look forward tobuilding on 

this momentum for many, many 

yearstocome.” 

He also acknowledged theMarlborough 

District Council, the 

theatre’s sponsors, Marlborough 

Civic Theatre trustees, management,staff, 

andvolunteersfor the 

theatre’s continuing success. 

The theatre hosted more than 

30 community groups per year, 

largelysubsidisedbythe council’s 

$390,000 annual grant. 

Suetoldattendees that assuming 

the theatre’s naming rights “felt 

like alogical step” after sponsoring 

the theatre’s Whitehaven 

Wine Room since its opening. 

“To see the Whitehaven name 

up in lights, right here in the 

heartofour region,issomething 

truly special for our family and 

our team,” Sue said. 

“It represents not just sponsorship 

but ashared belief in the 

value ofthe arts, culture, and 

ourcommunity.Welookforward 

Whitehaven Winesco-founderSue White, right, cuts theribbonofthe newWhitehavenTheatre with MarlboroughCivic 

TheatreTrust chairman KevinMoseley. Photo: Kira Carrington/LDR 

to the next decade and beyond 

for supporting this wonderful 

space.” 

Suesaidthe family-owned winery 

was committed toa“100% 

Marlborough focus”. 

She said Marlborough-owned 

wineries and growers played a 

vitalroleinsupportingthe whole 

community. “Without these 

people, many ofthe things we 

celebrateand enjoyinour region 

simply wouldn’t happen. 

“We’re proud tostand among 

them andtocontributeinameaningful 

way.” 

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Fighting back against 

Parkinson’sDisease 


Thereare some heftypunches being 

thrown asthe class isput through its 

paces. 

Participants are quick on their feet, 

reacting to instructions from class 

leaderCat Buckingham as shelends a 

helpinghand. 

This class isabout support, both 

physical andmental, aclass dedicated 

to those diagnosed with Parkinson’s 

Disease. 

As Parkinson’s Awareness Month 

gets underway, Marlborough MS and 

Parkinson’s Society Co-ordinator 

Brenda Green explains how regular 

exercise canhelp. 

“It helps with balance, strength and 

co-ordination. The number one thing 

you can do to help is exercise; that’s 

the most important piece ofadvice I 

cangive. 

“A tailored, supported exercise programme 

can improve physical ability 

and symptoms. People may not have 

achoiceabout having Parkinson’sbut 

there isnothing but choice with how 

they deal with it.” 

April isdedicated to raising awareness,providing 

educationand supportingthose 

living with thecondition and 

their families. 

Parkinson’s isaprogressive neurodegenerative 

condition that affects 

individuals differently. More than 

13,000 Kiwis have been diagnosed 

with thecondition,and it is thefastest 

growing neurological condition inthe 

world,Brendasays. 

“It’s expected toincrease by50per 

cent in thenext20years.” 

Pete Hall was diagnosed eight years 

ago. Ashaking in hisarm wasthe first 

symptomhenoticed. 

But, looking back, it was his disappearingsense 

of smelldecades earlier 

which should have rung alarm bells, 

hesays. 

“I always hadmysuspicionsprior to 

that [officialdiagnosis]asI’d heardthat 

the sense ofsmell was one of the first 

senses to go.” 

Pete,who used to work forPortMarlborough, 

says he attends the weekly 

class for the physical benefits. Hehas 

alsojoinedanewmonthly men’sgroup. 

“Aswe’re allmen there, it’s easier to 

talk. As menwetendtoburyour heads 

inthe sand abit butit’sgood to talk to 

peoplewho understand.” 

Mel Cooper was diagnosed four 

months ago after his wife picked up 

some of his symptoms. “She noticed 

thatwhenIwalked,Iwasn’t swinging 

myarms. IknewIwasfatiguedand she 

pickeduponthattoo. 

“I saw anadvert for the class, it’s 

been very helpful, especially talking 

topeople. It’s earlydaysyet butIhave 

enjoyedit, it’s good to getwithpeople 

who understand and to realise that 

The Parkinson’s exercise group 

meets weekly, with participants 

praising both thephysicaland mentalbenefits 

of attending. 


you’re notalone.” 

Theexerciseclass,opentoall people 

with Parkinson’s, is held weekly at 

Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000. 

Instructor Cat was among the first 

of the stadium’s professional staff to 

qualifytoteach exercise as medicine. 

The Men’s Group meets weekly at 

Weld Street. The Society isalways 

lookingfor volunteers to lend ahand. 

To find out more about the classes 

or volunteer opportunities, contact 

Brenda Greenbyphone:027 2551299 

or viaemail:mmss.edc@xtra.co.nz 

MarlboroughMSand Parkinson’sSociety Co-ordinator Brenda 

Green, left,with classleaderCat Buckingham. 


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8 



Sun readershavetheir say... with theWORDonthe Street. 

Do youagree with theMarlborough District Council’srecent 

decisiontoallow Easter Sunday tradinginMarlborough? 

Mike Boyd 

Yes. 

Broughttoyou by... 

Debbie Webster 

Franchise Owner Blenheim 

Ellie Smith 

Yes-the rulesare archaic. 

SueMachon 

No,tomeour public holidays arebeingeroded, 

it should be respected. 

JordynO’Doherty 

Yes! 

Tosellwhat you love, talktosomeone 

who loves where you live. 

WannisaPongsatitporn 

Yes-Iown Marlborough Public 

houseand choose nottochargea 

surcharge. 

Raine &Horne New Zealand PTY Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 

Letters 

Lettersonissuesofcommunity 

interest are welcomed. 

A maximum of 150 words 

please. 

They must be signed and 

astreet address provided to 

show good faith, even when a 

nom deplume is provided for 

publication. 

to the editor 

The editor reserves the right 

to abridge letters orwithhold 

letters from publication. 

Email them tonews@blenheimsun.co.nz 

orpresent to 

our office at 72 High St. 

Please note that your name 

and street address MUST be 

provided with emails. 

NeoLiberal Economics 

Last week’s writer clearlyhasn’t 

graspedhis understandingofNZ 

national debt at around 40% of 

GNP, which isonthe low side 

of most countries’ debt: orimmigration 

figures, as it is the net 

figure that counts i.e. incoming, 

minus outgoing, otherwise NZ 

population wouldbealot higher 

than thecurrent 5.2million. 

Accountant’s dire warnings re 

wine industry 

As to dire warnings beinggiven, 

what does oneexpectwhenMDC 

hascontinued to give outvineyard 

licenses like they are going out 

of fashion. Marlborough has 

become amonoculture region, 

with all the consequences of 

oversupply and water shortages. 

It is never agood idea to put all 

one’seggsinone’s basket. 

It hasbeenknown,for almost a 

decade,thatChina hasmorevineyardsunder 

cultivationthanall of 

Australiaand NZ combined.And 

what have we done to counterthis 

threat,sentour vintners over there 

to assist in raising the quality of 

theirwines andnow we areforced 

to dump ours throughanoversupply. 

Such awaste of resourcesand 

in the long term atotal threat to 

MDC’srate-basedincome, which 

will cost allratepayersdearly. 

ChrisDavies, Picton 

Amessage to our 

48,900 

readers 

Please 

support our 

advertisers, 

theheartbeat 

of our 

community 

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

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

Sun Weather Today 2-15 Thursday 8-15 Friday 6-14 Saturday 6-12 

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Phone us : 035777 868 

From left, Wiliam Hawker, Evalyn 

Hawker, Witherlea School Acting PrincipalKateDeane, 

New WorldBlenheim 

owner, operator Tineke Powe l, Theo 

Sheard and Rose Powell ar excited 

abouttheupcomingraffle. 

LOCAL PEOPLE - LOCAL VIEWS-LOCAL NEWS 

Communityfunds boostfor localgroups 

Rātā Foundation hasannounced $236,768 

will go to community groups inMarlborough 

in itslatestfunding announcement. 

Thefunding will benefit 18 organisations 

across arange of areas, from pest controlto 

historicalSocieties. 

ChiefExecutive Leighton EvanssaysRātā 

is proud tostand alongside the groups it 

supports. 

“This funding will support organisations 

to help people learn, connect, participate, 

support and work together to care for each 

other andthe environment. 

“We’re proud tostand alongside the 

organisations we support-allofwhomare 

committed tomaking apositive difference 

in people’s livesand building abetterfuture 

where our communities are empowered to 

thrive.” 

Rātā also announced$179,400inmulti-re- 

gion fundingfor organisationsthatbridgetwo 

or more of itsfunding regions. 

Sinceits inceptionin1988, Rātā hasinvested 

Marlboroughfunding: 

• All Nations Christian FellowshipTrust 

-Blenheim: 

$3,000 

• Arapaoa Kiwi Trust: 

$30,000 

• Blenheim Samoan Community 

Charitable Trust: 

$5,000 

• BlenheimSchool: $5,000 

• Cook Strait Pest Control 

Charitable Trust: $5,000 

• Crossroads(Marlborough) 

Trust: $30,000 

• East Coast Protection 

Group Incorporated: 

$5,000 

• Havelock School and 

Community Library: 

$2,000 

• KaikouraHistoricalSociety 

(Incorporated):$15,000 

• Marlborough Community 

Foodbank Inc: $6,560 

• Marlborough Community 

Law Centre Incorporated: 

$13,608 

• MarlboroughMigrantCentreIncorporated: 

$30,000 

more than $630 million through community 

investment programmes to empower people 

to thrive. 

• Marlborough NetballCentreIncorporated: 

$10,000 

• Presbyterian Support 

(Upper South Island) -Te 

Tuitui Kaumātua -Senior 

Wellbeing Collaborative: 

$30,000 

• PRshedAiga: $10,000 

• SupportingFamiliesMarlboroughTrust:$20,000 

• Tautoko CommunityTrust: 

$10,000 

• The Omaka Observatory 

CharityTrust:$6,600 

Arthur 

Jo Lorraine Debby 

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Another step forward at Northbank Road 

slip site 

Significant earthworkshave been 

completed on the large slip,17kmup 

Northbank Road. 

Work began last December with an 

accessway created to reach the top 

of the slip,40m above the road. After 

pausing over the Christmas break, 

dedicated clearance works started 

in earnest in January.Since then, 

approximately 18,300 cubic metres of 

material has been removedfrom the slip 

face,enough to fill seven Olympic-sized 

swimming pools. 

With this stage of work completed, the 

construction closures at the site have 

paused and the road is currently open 

under traffic lights, with delays of up to 

five minutes. 

From Monday 13 April, crews will return 

to undertakedrainage improvements 

and stabilisation work. This includes 

the installation of two large one metre 

diameterculvertsunderneath the road 

and rock scaling to further stabilisethe 

slip face. 

Due to the riskofrockfall and the 

construction of the culverts, there will be 

road closures planned from Monday 13 

April to Friday 24 April: 

• Monday to Saturday from 8.30am 

to 12pm and12.30pm to 4.30pm 

Outside of these times,the sitewill 

continue to operate under traffic lights 

with delays of up to five minutes. 

Elsewhere on the network,Marlborough 

Roads’recovery workscontinue to 

progress in the Awatere,Waihopai, 

French Pass, Kenepuru and Port 

Underwood.OnKenepuru Road there 

are two construction closures in place, 

on eithersideofPortage Bay.More 

information on the works andtimings 

of closures are available on the Council 

website. 

RoyalNew Zealand Ballet’sElla Chambersreading 

Dazzlehands to childrenatTeKahu oWaipuna 

April school holidays at the libraries 

Thesite, 17kmfromthe startofNorthbank Road, followingthe removalof18,300 

cubicmetresofearth. 

The team at Marlborough District 

Libraries is gearing up fora 

busy April school holidays with 

opportunities and activities forall 

ages. 

On Friday 17 April the Royal New 

Zealand Ballet (RNZB) will be at Te 

Kahu oWaipuna in Blenheim with 

workshops in the atrium at 10am 

and 11am. TheRNZB children’s 

ballet Dazzlehands gives children 

of all ages the chance to listen, 

learn and dance. 

Both libraries offer drop-in craft, 

with children’s and tween sessions 

at Te Kahu oWaipuna. Wednesday 

morning’sLego in aCup is avery 

popular option. Blenheim adults 

can bring the kids to Lego then 

pop over to solve those phone 

issues at the Digital Drop-in. 

Young designers get their chance 

in Picton with the superhero/ 

supervillaindesign-a-bookmark 

competition -design is week one 

and voting week two. 

Both libraries will screen familyfriendly 

movies: Picton each 

Wednesday at 2pm and Te Kahu 

oWaipuna on Friday 10 April 

at 10.30am. Children need to 

be accompanied by an adult 

so taketime out to enjoy some 

entertainment. 

There’s plenty for the adults too 

with the latest author and book 

information available at Book Chat 

at both libraries from 10.30am on 

Wednesday 8April. 

If knitting or spinning is more your 

thing,join thespinners and knitters 

group in Picton from 10.30am 

to 2pm each Tuesday and the 

Blenheim knit and natter group 

meet 10am to noon on Thursdays. 

For afree cuppa and achat, 

the Company Cafeisthe place 

to be each Thursday in Picton 

from 10.30am. In Blenheim each 

Thursday at 10am is the chance 

to get up close and cuddly with 

friendly dogs from the St John 

Therapy Pets. 

More information: 

www.marlboroughlibraries.govt.nz/ 

events 

Consent fee changes open forconsultation 

Consultation on proposed changesto 

consent fee starts on Tuesday 7April 

with submissions closing at 5pm on 

Thursday 7May. 

Council is inviting public feedback on 

proposed fee changes for2026/2027 

related to Building Control, 

EnvironmentalHealthand Resource 

Consent Monitoring services. 

From 1July 2026, a3.1 per cent 

increase in theConsumer Price Index 

will be applied to Building Control and 

Resource Consent fees. The Council 

is proposing an 8per centrise in 

Environmental HealthFees. 

These proposed changes reflect 

recent legislative amendments 

and are designed to ensure that 

those generating compliancecosts 

contribute directly,rather than relying 

on the general ratepayer.Council 

invites feedback on the proposals, 

which aim to align with updated 

legislation and improve cost recovery. 

For more information or to makea 

submission, visithttps://haveyoursay. 

marlborough.govt.nz/ or www. 

marlborough.govt.nz

10 



TheGoldenEra of ClassicCarshas opened 

at MarlboroughArt Society. Theexhibition 

celebrates the beautiful classic cars of 

yesteryear and the associated clothing, 

buildings andsocialsetting that made the 

1950sto1980sstandout.Theexhibitionlast 

is on untilSunday5April. 

Photos:AnneGaellePhotography. 

Barbara Speedy,with model‘Audrey’ andJoJanssen. 

Cathyand Robtookastepbackintimewith theircooloutfits. 

Annetteand Jadzia Michna-Konigstorferwith ablueVWBeetle. 

Mandy and Alistair Mitchell were 

aboutpeace as they attended the 

specialshow. 

ArtistsSara Hunter,TessLandon-Laneand Caroline dellaPorta. 

Arlin Sukarlin and Jill Caslick rocked 

theirnew looks. 

NoelineStewartand Sharon Abernethymadefor astrikinglook 

alongsideaneye-catchingworkofart. 

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Wednesday April 8, 2026 11

12 



Lexie’sLife 

Greetingsmynon-furry friends, 

I’m feeling very grateful and abit 

emotionaltobehonest,peoplearesokind. 

Ialwaysvisit thosewho have givenme 

treatsatsomepointinthepast.Thisisnot 

an obvious bidfor more delicious goodies, 

just me showingmygratitude,obviously. 

This cat has manners. Whether there 

are treats involved again is amatter of 

free will.Ofcourse, Iwouldn’tdream of 

hurtinganyone’sfeelingsand will accept 

alldonations graciously. 

Apatient’s family recently gifted me 

sometoys!Iwassodelighted. Toys!What 

avery thoughtful gesture, Imade my 

delightknown with some very impressive 

purring, even if Idosay so myself. 

Speaking of donations, we gotanother 

amazingdonation, an Ebikefor ourteam. 

Amemberofthe public donatedher well 

looked afterEbike to us as away forour 

CommunityLeadNurse to be able to visit 

patients in aged residentialcarefacilities, 

as well as anyother localtrips that can 

be done on bike. 

Such athoughtful thing to do at a 

time when fuel costs somuch and our 

teamsdoessomuchout andabout in the 

community. Thankyou foryourverykind 

donation,Catherine,itissogenerous! 

EarlierinthemonthwehadtheSeniors 

Expo where some ofour staff and 

volunteers showcasedall things Hospice 

outinthecommunity,itwasabusydayout. 

Ikeptaneye on things back at Hospice. 

WhileIwasn’t givenmyofficial manager’s 

badge, Iwas obviously incharge and it’s 

good to have my talentsrecognised. 

On Sunday 15th May, we held our 

Annual HospiceVehicle Display, proudly 

run byMarlborough Classic Cars and 

what asuccess it was! We welcomed 

an incredible 457 exhibitors through 

the gates, helping raise anamazing 

$10,050.30 forHospice Marlborough. 

This event simply wouldn’t bepossible 

without the ongoing support of our 

community. Marlborough Classic Cars 

continue to deliver this event year 

after year, and their dedication is truly 

outstanding.We’realsosogratefultothe 

many local businesses and supporters 

who donate, lend ahand, and show up 

on the day. Weare incredibly lucky to 

be part of such agenerous community 

thankyou all. 

We hadaSausage Sizzle at Bunnings 

on the 28March, the first Hospice 

Marlborough fundraiser there, and it 

wasgreat to seelocals 

supporting us.Hmmm, 

sausages,oops, sorry, 

gotsidetracked there 

for asecond byall 

that porkygoodness. 

Thanks to all of 

you who turned up 

in support, we raised 

$720 and will beback 

in May. 

Hospice Awareness 

week is coming up in May 

this year. Watch this space 

for acollection of things we’ll 

be doingthroughoutthecommunity 

to raise awareness for Hospice 

Marlborough. 

Don’tforgetthe 29th of August 2026 

is our Hospice Marlborough Charity 

Ball –ANight ofElegance. Planning 

is well under way, with generous 

local businesses supporting. If you 

are interested inbeing part of this 

incredible event we’d love tohear from 

you! Please emailengagement@mht.org. 

nz to discuss. This reminds me, Imust 

look outmytiara… 

Otherwisekeepyoureyespeeledonour 

socialsand websiteasmoreinformation 

andticketsales arereleased, this is set 

to be aglamorous night ofcelebration, 

connection and engagement with our 

communityaswellasraising significant 

funds for Hospice Marlborough –you 

won’twanttomissit! 

Be safe andbehappy,until next time, 

Love 

Lexiexx 

Virtual After-hours 

Primary Health Care 24/7 

Marlborough Primary Health is partnering 

with Practice Plus to provide virtual 

afterhours health care in Marlborough 24/7. 

To access primary health care after 5pm on weekdays, all day 

at weekends and public holidays, simply phone your General 

Practice and you will be connected with ahealth professional 

who will talk toyou about your symptoms and help book an 

appropriate appointment. 

Virtual appointments are safe and effective for many health 

concerns and have been successfully treating thousands of 

people every year all over Aotearoa New Zealand. Prescriptions 

can beemailed directly toyour nearest pharmacy for collection. 

From 01 April 2025 Marlborough General Practices will 

have virtual appointment options through Practice Plus 

for after-hours care. 

Tūhonotia te Hapori: Connecting Communities to Wellbeing 

Ph 03 520 6200 | 22Queen St, Blenheim | www.marlboroughpho.org.nz



SummersetBlenheim 

Open Day 

SummersetBlenheim is agrowing villagewithavibrant community. We arethrilledtoshare that our 

fantasticamenities in ourvillage centre will be openingsoonfor residentstoenjoy. 

Arange of two-bedroomvillasare availablewithflexiblepricing starting from $656,700*. 

“MovingintoSummerset Blenheim whileIcould,not when Ihad to,was thebestdecision. Ifeelsecure, 

supported, andstill independent, with awelcoming communityand plenty to do.Myfamilyseeshow 

much I’mthriving. If you’re consideringamove,don’t wait!” ALLISON, RESIDENT AT SUMMERSET BLENHEIM 

We know that moving to aretirementvillage is abig decision.Sowhy notcomealong to our 

Open Day, andsee foryourselfwhy ourresidents love theSummerset life. 

Love thelifeyou choose. 

OpenDay 

Thursday 9April,10am-2pm 

Summerset Blenheim 

183 Old Renwick Road, Blenheim 

03 520 6042 |summerset.co.nz/blenheim 

*Flexible pricing arrangements subject to bespoke deferred management fee. Prices and stock levels correct as at 26 February 2026. Only villa 57 and 58 left at this price. 

Villa images are indicative and village centre renders isanartist impression only. 

Homes sold under licence to occupy, subject toavailability. Summerset does not offer rental accommodation. Care subject to eligibility. 

SUM9384_FP2

14 Wednesday April 8, 2026 


Children’s Dayreturns to Blenheim 

Children’s Dayiscelebratedacross 

NewZealand on thefirstSundayof 

March each year, recognising the 

joy, curiosity, and potential of our 

tamariki.(www.childrensday.org.nz) 

Afterseveral yearswithout alocal 

celebration, adedicated group of 

community workers came together 

in late 2025 to relaunch Children’s 

DayinBlenheim. Drawingontheir 

work with families across Marlborough, 

the group was committed to 

creating awelcoming, low-to-nocost 

eventthatfamiliescould easily 

attend andenjoy. 

The2026Children’sDay washeld 

at Brayshaw Park on Patchett’s Green 

andfeaturedarangeoffreeactivities, 

including(notlimited too):miniature 

trains, bouncy castles, face paints, 

watermelon, and sausage sizzle. 

This free event was made possible 

throughthe generous fundingofthe 

MarlboroughViolenceIntervention 

Projectaswellasdonations from The 

LocalButcher,Woolworths, Bounce 

with Us,Vintage CarClub, andBlue 

Bins Marlborough. 

The organising team iskeen to 

build onthis success, grow attendance, 

and keep Children’s Day 

accessible for all tamariki. Ifyou 

or your organisation is interested in 

beinginvolvedinthe 2027 Children’s 

Dayevent throughsponsorship or a 

physical presence,pleaseget in touch 

with Claire.Briggs008@ot.govt.nz. 

Planning meetings will recommence 

in August 2026.



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24/7 SERVICE 

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Marlborough 

local cleaning experts 

proud to bring you this puzzle page 

CROSSWORD 

445 

SUDOKU 

Every row, column and box should 

contain the digits 1to9. 

WORDBUILDER 

1 2 3 4 5 6 

7 8 9 

10 11 

345 

N T A 

A P I 

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. 

Good 17 Very Good 22 Excellent 26 

18 

19 20 21 22 

23 24 

25 26 

Across 

7. Unapproachablesubject(2-2,4) 

9. Steel beam (6) 

10. FormerRussian ruler(4) 

11. Self-governing (10) 

12. Swimsuit (6) 

14. Calm (8) 

15. Turned to liquidbyheat (6) 

16. Globe (6) 

19. Upside down(8) 

21. Four score and ten(6) 

23. Person chosen to judge a 

dispute(10) 

24. Sharp-tasting(4) 

25. Protect(6) 

26. Recall (8) 

Decoder 

Down 

1. Miniaturetreeorshrub (6) 

2. Quartet(4) 

3. Arrange (8) 

4. Meetingplan(6) 

5. Person whooverreacts (5,5) 

6. Fill in temporarily (8) 

8. Shrewd (6) 

13. Vague, imprecise(3-7) 

15. Kingdom (8) 

17. Scenicview(8) 

18. Proofreader (6) 

20. Angryoutburst (6) 

22. Objective(6) 

24. Crypt(4) 

Crossword 

Across: 7. No-go area, 9. Girder, 10. Tsar, 11. Autonomous, 12. Bikini, 

14. Tranquil, 15. Molten, 16. Sphere, 19. Inverted, 21. Ninety, 23.Arbitrator, 

24. Tart, 25. Shield, 26. Remember. 

Down: 1. Bonsai, 2.Four, 3.Organise, 4.Agenda, 5. Drama queen, 6. 

Deputise, 8. Astute, 13. Ill-defined, 15. Monarchy, 17. Panorama, 18. Editor, 

20. Tirade, 22. Target, 24. Tomb. 

WordBuilder 

Ana, ani, ant, anti, apian, apt, inapt, nap, napa, nip, nit, pain, paint, pan, pant, 

pat, PATINA, pin, PIÑATA,pint, pit, pita, tai, TAIPAN, tan, tap, tapa, tin, tip. 

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. 

VOLUME 1 

Enjoy WordFit? Magazines available. 

See www.thepuzzlecompany.co.nz 

Sudoku 

One-time servicecleansmidweek 

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TheEasterweekendsawbigenergy,bigplays 

andchampionshipheatatBlenheim’sStadium2000astheNelsonGiantsvsthe2025NBL 

champions, Wellington Saints. Final score: 

Nelson Giants 80 Wellington Saints 71. 

Photos:AnneGaelle 

Out& 

...with The Sun 

your localpaper 


AbOut 

Have an event? 

Contact035777 868 

Dong,Fei,Maria andZizhanZhang. 

EmHarvey, JacindaThompsonand Renu Boonpachok. 

AWellingtonSaintsplayertakes on James 

Matthews from theNelsonGiants. 

Lexi Thompson, Chloe Cook, Martina Sampaio, Bella Bromwich 

andMiBurke. 

Mackenzie, Stella,Payton, Alexis,Ellie, Tahlia,Ella, Icey andPeytonfromthe MarlboroughAcademy of Dance. 

Kimberleyand Archie McCabe with Jessicaand Luke Francis. 

James, Emma andOliviaMarsden. 

DiaanStassen andNoahWelsh. 

Ange Derig, ErikaBalleand AaronThompsonfromMarlborough 

Basketball cooked up astorm on thesausage sizzle.

18 



SuperRugby update 

Ryan Webb 

–The RugbyOpinioneer 

TheCrusaders vFijianDrua 

TheCrusaders gotofftoagroundbreaking 

start with abig charge 

from Chey Fihaki, offloading to 

Will Jordon who did along pass to 

Sevu Reece which set him alight 

for the first try. Asensational run 

from JamieHanna setoffaclinical 

play, asthe Crusaders put together 

some phenomenal passes by Will 

Jordon and Johnny Lee. This set 

Leicester Fainga’anuku tohead 

over the line for their second try. 

This opened the flood gates, and 

The Crusaders scored another nine 

tries, ofwhich four were scored by 

Cody Taylor inhis 150th game for 

The Crusaders. They didn’t have 

it all their own way, with the Fijian 

Drua finding some form andscoring 

four tries of their own, but it was 

too little toolate. What afittingway 

for The Crusaders tofinish their 

time at the “Temporary Stadium” 

whichiscurrently theApolloProject 

Stadium. Theirnexthomegamewill 

be Anzac weekend at the new One 

NZStadium. 

FinalScore 69 -26The Crusaders 

The Chiefs vWaratahs 

TheChiefsscoredfirstthrough 

amiss-field byThe Waratahs 

whichled to ourlocal boy, Kyren 

Taumoefolau dotting down 

the ball over the try line. The 

Waratahs hadsomeopportunities 

butdidn’tfollowthemupdue to 

mistakes and inconsistent play. 

The Chiefs had some razzle 

dazzle through Quinn Tupaea, 

as he powered through to score 

The Chiefs second try. The 

Chiefs also had some brilliant 

forwardmomentumasSamisoni 

Taukei’aho scored their 3rd try. 

The Waratahs then made amiracle 

outofsomebackplaymoves 

as SidHarveyfieldedapass from 

Max Jorgenson to score their 

only try ofthe first half. The 

Chiefs led 23-7at the break. 

TheChiefsthenran rampantwith 

tries from Quinn Tupaea (his 

second for the night),Samipeni 

Finauand anotherone by Kyren 

as TheChiefssealedthe victory. 

The Waratahs could only do a 

consolation try by Pete Samu. 

The Chiefs winning ways 

continue over the Waratahs as 

the Waratahs have not won in 

Ryan Webb 

Hamilton since2010. 

FinalScore 42 -14-TheChiefs 

MVPs: Cody Taylor –Crusaders, 

Samisoni Taukei’aho –Chiefs. 

Lets 

' 

Chat 

with 

CassidyVeldkamp 

OwneratThe Spud LabNZ 

• Areyou adog or catperson? 

Ifind ithard tochoose, Ilove dogs 

andcats! 

• What’s your favourite snack? 

My favourite snack would have tobe 

cheese and crackers unless there’s 

jacket potatoes around! 

• What wouldyou buyifmoney 

wasnoobject? 

Acoastal property or hotel/restaurant 

complex. 

• Celebrity-wise whowould be at 

your dream dinner party? 

Celebrity atadream dinner party 

wouldhavetobeGordon Ramsey for 

sure. 

• Savouryorsweet? 

I’m guilty for having asweet 

tooth. 

• Theshopyou can’twalk 

past is...? 

Ashop Icant walk past isdefinitely 

Kmart! 

• If youcould boardaplane 

tomorrowwhere wouldyou 

go? 

If Iwas to boardaplane tomorrow, 

definitelyFijiorRarotonga. 

• What’s thebestthing you 

cancook? 

ThebestthingIcancook-ajacket 

potato of course! 

• Areyou amorning person 

or anight owl? 

Iamverymuchanight owl. 

• What’s your favourite 

colour? 

My favouritecolourisgreen! 

• If youhad to choose 

anotherjob what wouldit 

be? 

If Icould chose another job, 

probably an airhostess. 

• What is your favourite 

placefor coffeeorlunch? 

My favourite place for lunch or 

acoffee wouldbeToastie Lords 

in Picton. 

Sun Weather Today 10-22 Thursday 9-24 Friday 8-20 Saturday 12-21 Sunday 12-21 Monday 12-20 

"Flowers and Fashion" Show 

and an Imposé Designing Display 

Marlborough Events Centre 

Thursday 30April 2026 

Join us at our Open Day Display and Show emphasising the 

growth and transformation of flowers, symbolizing the journey 

from roots to blooming beauty, and how they leave alasting 

impression and legacy. 

Tickets $45.00 

Includes afternoon tea 

Show starts at 1.30pm 

(please be seated by 1.15pm) 

Afternoon Tea3.00pm -3.30pm 

Imposé Time 3.45pm -5.45pm 

Tickets can be purchased directly 

from Helen Jackson on 021-066-4626 

or email helenjackson@kinect.co.nz 

Closing date for tickets 20 April 2026


White elephant 

Hooray -white elephant Eltham Road cycle 

way removal scheduled for April 7.Well 

doneMDC forseeingthe follyand particular 

thanks to DeborahDalliessi forspearheading 

commonsense. 

Re:Populationgrowthin 

Marlborough 

Idowonderwhatpromptedthisthinly-veiled 

xenophobic text.Probablyxenophobis itself. 

If you’ve read the papers lately, deaths outweight 

births in Marlborough and we need 

immigrants to theregion. 

As an immigrant myself, who recently was 

granted citizenship, Ican say that myimmigrant 

family ofageneral practitioner, 

physiotherapist, clinical psychologist, and 

optometrist have greatly contributed tothe 

health system. 

Please think twice before you cast aslur on 

immigrants. 

Allbirds 

Sadtohearofthe demise of theAllbirdsbrand 

of footwear.Ilovemineand when Iput them 

onIalwaysthinktomyselfhowcomfytheyare. 

Petrol rationing prepped? 

Thecards arealready printed. We didthemat 

WickliffePressinDunedininabout1979. Ready 

to go,withyourcarless daysticker,luckily Istill 

have mine. Sitting ready for issue, see your 

localregistrationoffice-ohdear, they arefew 

andclosedonweekends;noworry, borrowthe 

neighbourhooduberhoon’scar. 

JollyRoger access 

Itotally agree that the Jolly Roger has great 

food,drinks, serviceand awonderful location. 

As aSoundsresident andaregularcustomer 

Iamatalossastowhy Port Marlboroughhas 

permanently removed boat access to Jolly 

Roger. 

This is equivalent to the council ripping up 

theroadinfront of atavern/restaurant in the 

middle of town permanently. 

txt talk with 

Re:Grape harvest 

Ireallyhopeyou’rejoking.Grapesgetharvestedwhentheyareready, 

whichcan be dependent on anumberoffactors,not theleast of 

which is theextremely changeable weatherwehavebeenhaving. 

Dogpoop 

Does the person dropping green bags with 

dog poop in them into thecreek off Durham 

Street walk bridgeinPictonnot realisethese 

bags eventually endupinthe seaand addto 

worldpollution? 

Please take them home and put them your 

rubbish bin. 

Re:Rates cap 

Ican seebothsidesofthisargument. Personally 

Idon’t thinkit’sagoodidea. 

Andataguess, I’dsay that most of thepeople 

callingforaratescaparethesameonescalling 

for blood when they think the council isn’t 

doingtheir job, or in atimelymanner. 

Well guess what folks -rates capping with 

mean diminished servicelevelsfromMDC. 

You’ll just have to putupwithgrass notbeing 

mown on youfavourite riverside walk. 

The rates are not the problem, it’s the cost 

of living andinflationthathavehelpeddrive 

them up. 

Re:Grape Harvest 

What ajoke! to the person who suggested 

changingthegrapeharvesttoJune,partofour 

coldestmonthsoftheyear, youmustbejoking. 

They wouldn’t survive. Some people’s grapes 

arestartingtogooffalready,unlessthe birds 

get afeed. Only good forspirits. 

Afterall,whydoyouthinkwehavehelicopters 

flyingaroundinspringbeforethegrapescome 

into bloom? Thinkagain. 

Quote 

George McGovern;1922-2012.USpolitician/ 

historian: 

‘Old men dream up wars for young men to 

diein.’ 

Strapin 

Ispotted aFBpost just after lockdown that 

said ‘strap in -we’re in foraveryroughride.’ 

Andhereweare -sagewords,myfriend. 


Re:Grape harvest 

Everyviticulturist in Marlboroughsighs.... the 

grape growth follows the seasons. Why else 

wouldweworkonChristmas Day?! 

Re:Geoengineering 

To thepersoncomplaining aboutthe sirforce 

flyingaroundwhile thereare fuel shortages: 

WouldyousaythatiswewerelivinginUkraine 

or Iran?Ithank theuniverseevery daythatI 

wasbornand am living in NewZealand. 

Re:Geoengineering 

Awidely debunked conspiracy theory -in 

your dreams,chemtrailer,sadly youseemto 

have missed your high school science class 

on simple condensation and if they were 

chemtrailsyou’d alreadybegasping forair or 

pushingupdaisies! 

Based onscientific consensus, aviation 

authorities, andenvironmentalstudies,there 

is no evidence that passenger jets spray 

contaminants over populations. 

The persistent white lines are high-altitude 

“contrails”(condensationtrails),which arejust 

wtaer vapour and ice crystal trails from jet 

enginesincalm, moistand cold atmospheric 

conditions at high altitudes (30,000 feet), 

essentiallyknown as “jet breath”. 

Welcome them, because when the jets are 

flyingabove,our worldisstill safe. 

FreethsRoad 

Terribleto seetheintersectionat FreethsRoad 

whichwas rebuiltatgreat expenseayearago 

nowhavingtoberepaired, andthe newseal 

betweenthe twobridges resealed acoupleof 

weeksago back to exposedtar. 

Any warranty, Iwonder, or do we just pay 

again? Road repairs onSHjust shocking. 

Moneyfor jamfor thesecontractors. 

NZ rugby 

Would beinteresting to know why the new 

All Blacks coach was allowed to select who 

he wantedas assistantcoach,whenRazor was 

toldwho he couldpickand whohecouldn’t 

pick.It’sabout time DavidKirkcameout and 

told thepublicofNZ. 

Re:Timefor anew look 

We have biggerthingstoworry about. 


Talk of theweek 

Thank you 

Abig thank youtothe 

lovely lady andson who 

shoutedmemyitems 

at “SaveMore”.Much 

obligedfor thekindness. 

Thanks. 

Nothing but 

gratitude 

Afterrecentlyspending 

time in both ED and 

HDUatWairauHospital 

with aserious condition 

Ireceivedthe upmost 

care, attentionand 

understandingthatI 

will be forevergrateful 

for. From thecleanerto 

thenurses, labstaffto 

doctors. Isincerely cannot 

thank youall enough. 

Grateful Steve 

We welcomeyourtexts on 

027242 5266. 

Limitto70words please. 

We reservethe righttopublish at our 

discretion.Pleasenotethe opinions 

expressedare notnecessarily thoseofthe 

Sunmanagement. 


We don’t need more rates money spent 

on something else that isnot needed like 

welcomesigns.Curbthe needless spending. 


The ‘welcome’ signage onSH1 coming into 

Blenheim for some years now has been out 

of date re sunshine.Totally agree, it is time for 

anew favourable sign. 

Gotanimportant issuetosharewithMarlborough? Text your thoughts to 027242 5266 

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email: grant@ 

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Golf 

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Picton Golf Club 

Sat 28Mar Major Brown Nett-Frank 

Burns 67, Graham Morrell 68, David 

Thomas 69, Phil Hawke 69, Hirman 

Taylor 69, Ian Aldridge 70, Ali Baxter 

70,OliverOverend 70,Clinton Capper 

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Keys 75, Barbara Speedy 75, Mary 

Butler 78. 

Thurs 2Apl S/F-Jeff Pascoe 42, 

Richard Avery 40, Wade Collett 39, 

Leigh McGlynn 39, Harry Schat 38, 

Ezra Kahaki 38, Graham Morell 37, 

Andrew Sunley 37, Ian Aldridge 36, 

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Trevor Gullery35. 

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Blenheim Golf Club 

March23rd9holestablefordMarion 

Flynn 21Yvonne Hore 21Jaqui Hurcomb 

21 JennyEvans 20 Dawn Walker 

20 Jenny Adams 20 Men Ian Hatcher 

22 Dave Horrell 21John Burns 21 

Clarry Neame 21Dan Crawford 20 

Graeme Parker 19 Jans Fischer19Ross 

Agnew18Dave Menzies 18 

March 25th Glad Perry overall nett 

winner Ida Beets-Huchshorn 66 Div 

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Wallace 40Wendy Avery 36Janet 

Boyce 36Div 2Bernice Arnold 38 

Jane Hall 37 Marion Flynn 349hole 

nett medalKay Ayson32Chris Curie 

33 

March 26th Par Grant Flynn 6 

Graeme Parker -1 Ray Herd -4Doug 

Russell -59hole stableford Dean 

Ormsby 22 Jim Findlay 21 Dave 

Horrell19 

March 28th Surprise Tee Stableford 

Les Scott 41 Bertie van Dyk 36 

Karandeep Shahi 34 Jim Findlay 34 

Norbert Thaler 33Mike Gardiner 

32 Judith Batty 31Marion Flynn 31 

Wayne Stringer 30Mark Hoare 29 

Nigel Smith 29 Annelize Erasmus29 

March 30th Don March 22George 

Addis 21Steve Anderson 20 Stuart 

Parker 19 Mike McConnell 19Hay 

Montgomery 19 Ian Hatcher 17 Dave 

McFarlane 16Dan Crawford 16 Matt 

Anderson 16 Leo Hawkins 16 Jenny 

Evans18Chris Currie 17 AnnWalker 

17 Jenny Adams 17 

April 1st Medal Dawn Walker 35 

Colleen McLeod 35Ann Walker38 

Net Medal 18 holes Elaine Brown 71 

Judith Batty 71April 2nd Stableford 

Guido Bertogg 41 Ray Herd 37Tom 

Bainbridge 37 Graeme Parker 37 StuartParker36StuartMcLagan 

35 colin 

Pitkethley 35 Don March 35 9holes 

Stableford Ross Agnew 21Graeme 

Barsanti 19 Wayne Stringer18 

Public Notices 

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22 


Death notices 

BOESE, John Walter: 

On 4th April 2026, peacefully at Hospice 

Marlborough. Aged 85 years. Loved father 

and father-in-law ofSheree and Colin; David 

and Jo; Graeme and Jan and Carolyn. 

Loved grandad toall his grandchildren and 

great grand-children. Loved partner of Leslie 

Kirwan. Messages c/- PO Box 9,Blenheim7240 

or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz 

Atime to say goodbye will be held at the 

Upper Wairau Cemetery onThursday 9th 

April at1pm forfamily and close friends. 

CloudyBay Funerals 

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

CHEYNE, Beverley Frances (née Evans): 

Passed away at Hospice Marlborough on 

Monday30March 2026, aged 78 years, surrounded 

byfamily. Loving mother and best 

friend ofHeather and mother-in-law to Jason. 

An adored nana to Jemma,Kelsi andfur 

grandbaby Honey. Aloving sister to Craig 

and Ngaire, and amuch-loved aunty. Aspecial 

heartfelt thanks to Hospice Marlborough 

for their care ofBev. Messages to42 

Ashwood Drive, Witherlea, Blenheim 7201 

or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. InaccordancewithBev’s 

wishes aprivate cremation 

hastaken place. 

“Love you today,tomorrow and always”. 


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

GLASSON, Robert David: 

Aged 58 years. Passed away peacefully on 

4April 2026, at Hospice Marlborough, following 

ashort illness. Much loved life long 

friend toGraeme and Irene Percy, Amanda 

and Louise. “Forever inour hearts and 

so cherished –Sadly missed” Messages to 

Percy Family, 111 Charles Street, Blenheim 

7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz.Sincere 

thanks toall staff at Hospice Marlborough 

for their love and care ofRobert. A 

private gathering hasbeen held forRobert. 


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

HUTCHINSON, Rachel Amanda: 

On 31stMarch 2026, afteracourageous battle, 

Rachel passed peacefully at Wellington 

Hospital with family by her side, aged 58 

years.LovedwifeofRobert (Hutch). Loved 

and adored Mum ofEmma, Ashleigh and 

Damin. Cherished Nana to Oliver. Dearest 

Sister to Christina, Adrienne and Garth, and 

Sister-in-law toMichael and Elizabeth, and 

their families. 

We will see you in every garden, every teacup, 

and every cat that crossesour path. 

In lieu offlowers, donations to Life Flight 

would be greatly appreciated and can be 

made via https://www.lifeflight.org.nz/donate-now/ 

Messages for the Hutchinson 

Family may be sent to PO Box 110, Blenheim 

7240, or via www.sowmans.co.nz A 

celebration ofRachel’s life will be held at 

Sowman’s MayfieldChapel, cnrofHutcheson 

and Parker Streets, Blenheim on Thursday 

9th April at11.00am. 

KILKELLY, Maureen Annnée Ohara: 

Peacefully passed away atAshwood Park 

Rest Home on the30thofMarch 2026, in her 

80th year.DarlingwifeofDan foralmost 60 

years. SadlymissedbyBarry andDiKilkelly 

(PalmerstonNorth), andJoanne andTony 

Wiri (Brisbane). Loving nana of Jessica and 

Shannon, and Alex and great-grandmother 

of Koa. Loved sister ofJoan Buchanan and 

Eric Ohara. Loved aunty ofPaula, Nicky, 

Nigel, Kelly and Casey. Treasured friend 

of Leonie Wallace and Craig White. The 

family would like tothank the doctors at 

Springlands Health,and theWairauHospital 

and Ashwood Park Rest Home staff. Messages 

toc/o the Kilkelly family PO Box 9, 

Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals. 

co.nz. Inaccordance with Maureen’s wishes, 

aprivate cremation has taken place with 

acelebration ofher life to be held at alater 

date, tobeadvised onthe Cloudy Bay Funeral 

Services website. 


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

TOMLINSON, Katherine Mary(Kathie): 

Kathie passed away peacefully on March 

27th,2026, aged 96 at Redwood Retirement 

Village, surrounded by her family. Dearly 

loved wife ofRay for 73years. Loved 

mother and mother-in-law of Greg and Jill, 

Scott and Lynda. Cherished grandmother 

of Kate, Chris, Jess, Sean, and Kelly. Cherished 

great-grandmother ofWilloughby and 

Margo. The family would like tothank the 

Redwood Retirement Village staff for their 

care and support. All messages tothe Tomlinson 

family, c/- P.O. 9, Blenheim 7240, 

or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. As per 

Kathie’s wishes,aprivatefamily servicehas 

been held on Wednesday, 1st April 2026, 

followedbyaprivate interment. 


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


Wedding Anniversary 

URGENT 

services 

Urgent Care Centre: Wairau Hospital 

Grounds. Entry offHospital Rd,Blenheim, 

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

Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non urgent 578 

0797. 

After Hours Chemists: Springlands 

Pharmacy: Monday -Friday 8.30am - 

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

Public Holidays -phone us to be advised. 

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) 

AlcoholicsAnonymous: 0800 AA WORKS 

-0800 229 6757. 

Citizens Advice Bureau: Free, friendly, 

confidential advice. Mon -Fri 9.30am - 

4pm. Phone 578 4272. 

Wairau Hospital: Hospital Visiting Hours: 

Daily 2.30pm -8pm, children under 12 

mayvisit parents only. 

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

Children's Ward: Daily10am-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 

Memorial Services 

BEVERIDGE, BrianEdward(‘Buck’) 

Amemorial gathering for Buck will be held 

on Saturday 11th April at the Blenheim 

Bowling Club, 65E Weld Street, Redwoodtown,Blenheim, 

2pm -4pm.Informal. 

In Memoriam 

WILLS, PeterRobert 

Deathleaves aheartache noone can heal. 

Love leaves amemorynoone can steal. 

We all love you andmissyou so much. 

Love always,Mum. 

Joan &Raynor Henson 

70 th Wedding Anniversary 

Allour love on this specialday. 

Keith, Janet, Lindy, Brent, and partners 

and all your grandchildren. 

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 

FlYING NUN RECORDS /tapes Will pay 

$1000 Pin Group, Coat, Suburban Reptiles 

Sat Night pc $1600 Anything by25cents, 

Gordons, Builders, Clean, Mainly Spaniards, 

Playthings, Toy Love or any other Flying Nun, 

80s alternative, punk bands etc Pennylane 

Records Dave 021 222 6144 

Auction 

ClEARANCE AUCTION. 165 Lansdowne 

Road, Richmond. 11am Saturday11th April, 

2026. Viewing from 9am. Lg selection ofasst 

tools etc. check the website for photos and 

more information 

www.jwAUCTIoNS.Co.Nz 

johN Walker Auctioneer -027 443 2525 

news tips 

Send your tips to 

news@blenheimsun.co.nz 

Business 

Owners 

Reach your most 

valuable audience and 

grow your customers 

and sales with us. 

Ournewspaper is theBEST 

medium to target the 

lucrative45-70 audience. 

• Recentcensusdataconfirms that the45to 

70 agegroup hasthe highestwealthinNZ 

• The most effectiveway to reachthis 

audience is in theBlenheimSun 

• Place your advert in ourtrusted 

publicationand be seen -our 

advertisinggetsresults! 

Marlborough’s favourite read for 22years 

LOCAL PEOPLE - LOCAL VIEWS -LOCAL NEWS 

For aFREE professional advertising consultancy for your business -contact us today. 

Ph 577 7868 |Email:simon@blenheimsun.co.nz -katrina@blenheimsun.co.nz -rebecca@blenheimsun.co.nz


what’s on in sunny Marlborough 


23 

HealtH, Wellbeing and Sport 

Monday 

Summer TableTennis 

-every Monday at the Tua Marina Hall, Tua 

Marina 6.00pm -8.00pm $5per person. 

ContactJanice027 4229095 

Target Rifle Shooting BlenheimClub 

–AthleticParkrange,7pm visitors welcome, 

allgearprovided.ContactEddie02102464417 

Whitehead Park Bowling Club Redwoodtown 

-Monday afternoons from 12.30pmto3pm. 

Allwelcome.Contact Mike 5724013orJohn 

5775295. 

Tuesday 

TableTennis 

-BlenheimIndoorSportsCentre.TableTennis 

sessioneveryThursday,6.30pm-8.30pm, $6 

perpersontobepaidatfront desk. 

Picton TableTennisClub 

–Every Tuesday 10am-12pm. Picton Little 

Theatre. Bats provided.Cost$4. 

BrooklynCroquetClubWhitehead Park, 

Doubles 1pm -3pm Tuesdays, Thursdays, 

Saturdays. All Welcome. Mallets available 

Give it ago! 

Target Rifle Shooting Services Club 

-Athletic Park Range 7.00pm. Visitors welcome, 

all gear provided. Contact Malcom 

0276522640. 

Cancer SocietyMarlborough: 

Blue Brothers –Men’s exercise andcomradery-FREEexerciseand 

peer support-Every 

Tuesday-10 am Stadium2000, KinrossStreet, 

Blenheim. 

MarlboroughTennisClub 

–Social Tennis Parker Street. Every Tuesday 

8.30am tomidday. Morning Tea at 

10am. Non Members $5. All Welcome. 

Contact035786436. 

Cancer SocietyMarlborough: 

Breast Cancer Support Group -Peer support 

and connection inasafe welcoming 

space. EverysecondTuesday of theMonth 

7pm-8pm at theCancerSociety Rooms, 76 

AMaxwell Road,Blenheim. 

Pilates@NativityChurch 

-76Alfred Street. 9am-9.45am. $10 per 

person. 

Picton Line Dance. 

Anglican Church Hall, 10-11.30. Cost $7. 

Beginners welcome. For more info -Carol 

021-2125252orRaewyn021-715484. 

Pilates@Connect 

-8Beaver Road. 10.45am followed bya 

cuppa. $5 perfamily. 

Wednesday 

Target Rifle Shooting Riverside RSAClub 

-AthleticParkrange. 7pm,visitorswelcome, 

allgearprovided. ContactVal 021667746. 

Cancer SocietyMarlborough: Live Stronger 

-Women’s exercise, peer support and 

wellbeing for women living with cancer. 

Wednesdays 6pm -6:45 pm. Well &Good, 

1Grove Road.Blenheim. Cost $5 members, 

$10casual. 

Pickleball 

-SimcoxIndoorSportsStadium,BattysRoad. 

Wednesday 1pm-3pm. Cost $6including 

equipment. 

NiaDance 

-Wanttobefitwithoutpainandwithfun?NIA 

empowerspeopleofallshapes,sizeandlevel 

of fitness.Every experience canbeadapted 

to individual needs and abilities. Step into 

NIA and positively shape the way you feel, 

look,thinkandlive.EveryWednesday9-10am 

at 207Oakwood Lane.Corinne 0273245757 

WhiteheadParkBowlingClub,Redwoodtown 

-9.30am to12noon. Mixed roll –ups, all 

welcome, contactBob 5779436. 

Wairau Valley TaiChi &Qigong 

–Wairau Valley Hall, 10am, with Nancy. Ph 

5722844, text 0275722881, lasfronteras@ 

xtra.co.nz. 

GrovetownIndoorBowls Club 

–PlaysWednesday7pmat theFoundry,John 

StreetBlenheim.SeasonrunsApril–September. 

Newmemberswelcome,Ph0223804730. 

Thursday 

Keeping YouMoving 

-Every Thursday except 4thThursdayofthe 

month. Gentle indoor walking exercise for 

seniors. Aims to maintain andincreasemobility 

confidence, fitness andbalance.Class 

followed by acup of tea. 11.30am-12.30pm 

$3.00. St Christopher’sChurchHall, 92 Weld 

St.Ph027 3852333ordonna@stchristophers. 

co.nz 

Social TableTennis 

-BlenheimIndoorSportsCentre.TableTennis 

sessioneveryThursday,6.30pm-8.30pm,$6 

perpersontobepaidatfront desk. 

Social BadmintonClub 

-9am-11.30 Thursday mornings. Simcox 

Stadium,BattysRoad.$6.Alladultswelcome. 

Formoredetails phoneCathy 021503 348. 

Picton TableTennis 

–adults. 10am-12pm Port Marlborough 

Pavillion. $5,morning teainluded.PhHelen 

0211034050. 

TaiChi &Qigong 

–RedwoodtownHall,10ambeginners,11am 

advanced.Lovestrongerforlonger!PhNancy 

5722884. 

COPD Supportand Exercise Group 

-Tailored for people with breathlessness. 

2nd &4th Thurs ofthe month, 1.15pm, 

RedwoodtownCommunity Hall,cnr Weld & 

Cleghorn St.Ph: Gillian0274545102orDiana 

0272105780. 

Friday 

Pickleball 

-Simcox Indoor Sports Stadium, Battys 

Road. Friday 6pm-8pm. Cost $6 including 

equipment. Funfor thewhole family. 

Friday NightSkating Disco 

–BlenheimSkating Rink,StephensonStreet 

Blenheim,5pm-8pm. Heldthe first Friday of 

themonth.Afun eventfor thewhole family, 

suitableforall skatingabilities.Helmetscompulsory. 

Cash salesonly. Hire skates $5,own 

skates $2,spectatorsfree. Warm toasties on 

offer too! 

Saturday 

BrooklynCroquetClubWhitehead Park 

-Doubles 1pm-3pm Tuesdays, Thursdays, 

Saturdays. All Welcome. Mallets available 

Give it ago! 

Blenheim Park Run5km 

–Every Saturday 8am. Arrive 10mins early 

for race briefing. Free entry but register at 

parkrun.co.nz, print offyour barcode and 

bring itwith you. Open torunners and 

walkers, andeveryoneinbetween. 

Sunday 

MarlboroughTennisClub 

–Social drop-in Tennis. 3pm-5pm Parker 

Street. Non members $2. All welcome. 

Contact03578 6436 forinformation. 

Target Rifle Shooting 

Various clubs available to join in Blenheim, 

operating on Monday, Tuesday, 

Wednesday evenings at7pm. Visitors 

welcomeand gear is provided.Athletic 

Park range, Blenheim. 

Mr Fungus 

“New Zealand’s Loudest Mime”. 10th 

April, 11am-1pm Picton Little Theatre, 

Dublin Street,Picton. Mr Fungus is headingtoPictonwithashow 

that will amuse 

anddelight kids of allages. $15entry. 

Recycle, Reinvent, 

RepurposeExhibition 

Runs Saturday 11th –Sunday26thApril, 

10.30am-4.30pm, atThe Marlborough 

Art Society. 204 High Street, Blenheim. 

Open to members and non-members, 

this exhibition celebrates innovation 

across all mediums, from painting and 

sculpture tophotography and design. 

Showcasinghowdiscardedmaterialsand 

ideas canberebornintoinspiring works 

of art. Free entry. 

COMING uP 

TheClothing 

Carousal Sustainable 

CommunityMarket 

Sunday19 April,10am-1pm,Marlborough 

Youth Trust, Blenheim. Feeling thrifty? 

Come alongtothe Autumn 90sinspired 

market,fullofquality, prelovedwomens, 

mens and kids clothing, local food 

vendorsand smallbusinesses. 

maka 

EARLY LEARNING CENTRE 

Providingqualitycareand educationfor 

childrenaged3months -5years, Omakaisa 

space forchildrentogrow, exploreand flourish 

as uniqueindividuals,through achild-led,nature 

playbased environment, wherechildrenare 

giventhe wingstofly. 

Visit www.omakaelc.nz

24 



Stuart Smith 

MP forKaikōura 

Supporting our 

localcommunities 

Amberley Electorate Office 

103a CartersRoad, Amberley 

03 3147441 

BlenheimElectorateOffice 

22 ScottStreet, Blenheim 

03 5793204or0800STUART 

stuart.smithmp@parliament.govt.nz 

AuthorisedbyStuartSmith,ParliamentBuildings,Wellington.

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