WhenaspaceplanelaunchedfromChristchurchlastyearcarrying hardware for California Polytechnic, 21-year-old manufacturing engineer Yelena Cunningham watched with pride, knowing components she helped make were on board. The West Melton mechanicalengineeringapprentice graduate at Dawn Aerospace described seeing her work move from technical drawings to flying vehicles as a defining moment. “We got to watch the spaceplane launch… just seeing and knowing my parts were on thatwasjustunreal,”saysYelena.
YelenaworksinDawnAerospace’smachineshop,producinghigh -precision aerospace parts for global customers. Her path into engineering was shaped by practical experience and a willingness to seize new opportunities. After working part-time in workshops duringhigh school, she movedtoDawn Aerospace halfway through her apprenticeship to gain broader experience. “These di erent exposures have been valuable to learn from,” shesays.
Dawn Aerospace stands out for its supportive learning environment. Yelena was trusted to operate complex, milliondollar machines and do programming and CAD work. “All the guys in the workshop are knowledgeable and passing on that knowledge is really cool. Their patience allows me to learn withoutpressure.”
West Melton local and Dawn Aerospace apprentice engineer Yelena Cunningham with the CalPoly spaceplane she helped design and build.
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‘ELEMENTAL,’ A DEEP DIVE INTO ART AND EXPERIENCE
Elemental brings together nineteen artists exploring the materials, forces, memories and energies that shape our world. Presented by Arts Canterbury at Te Huanui Art Gallery, the exhibition invites audiences to consider what is fundamental – in art, in place, andinexperience.
The theme may be interpreted literally through earth, air, fire and water, or more broadly as the essential gesture, the raw material of emotion, the building blocks of a system, or the foundations of belonging. Artists respond by distilling ideas to their essence or expanding a single ‘element’ intosomethingunexpected. Working across a range of media, the exhibiting artists examine questions central to creative practice: What is the fundamental unit of your work? What natural, culturalor personal forces act upon it? What becomes visible when
something is stripped back or amplified?
Arts Canterbury is a regional organisation dedicated to supporting and promoting visual artists throughout Canterbury.
Through exhibitions, advocacy and professional development opportunities, it fosters connection and visibility for
artists working across diverse practices.
Elemental o ers audiences an opportunity to reconnect with what is essential — in art and intheworldaroundus.
Elemental o cially opens at 4pm on Saturday, February 28, andruns untilThursday, March 26.
Allarewelcome.
Artwork by Gail Anderson
COUNTRY MUSIC MAGIC RETURNS TO THE HEARTLAND
Dust o your boots and get ready to kick up some dust, Country in the Country is o cially back for 2026! After a successful debut, local entrepreneurs Craig Bradford of the Crate and Barrel and Andre Goldsmith of Hang Up Entertainment, in partnership with the Ellesmere A&P Trust, are thrilled to bring this premier musical event back to ourcommunity.
This year’s lineup is nothing short of spectacular. Headlining the day is the internationally acclaimed KayleeBell,arrivinginLeeston freshfromhermassivesell-out tour across New Zealand in 2025. Joining her is a stellar cast of talent, including local
favourites Zayde Blair and Ste anyBeck. Andre Goldsmith says, “We are also delighted to welcome back TheEasternand the Dunedin-based Eastern Sisterhood, who enjoyed the Ellesmere hospitality so much last year they couldn't wait to return.
We’ve listened closely to your feedback from our inaugural event.Tomakethemostofthe autumn sun and avoid the biting winds of last year, we have moved the date earlier in the month to Saturday, March 14. Shifting from Sunday to Saturday also allows everyone to enjoy the festivities to the fullest without the Monday morningrush.”
COMMUNITY RECYCLING COMMUNITY COMMUNITYRECYCLING RECYCLING DROP DROPDROP DROP--OFF DAY OFF OFFDAY DAY OFF DAY
Hawkins Pitt, Darfield is open again Sunday, March 1 for the Community Recycling and Bulk Waste Drop-o day from 10am to4pm.
These days are a great chance todrop-o gardenwaste,bulky waste, scrap metal, tyres, child carseatsandelectronicwaste.
They will also be accepting donations of good, clean, unwanted items for the ReUse shop.Cashonly.Noeftpos.
For more information visit: selwyn.govt.nz/recyclingday
MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN MAKE A DIFFERENCE YOUR COMMUNITY? YOUR YOURCOMMUNITY? COMMUNITY? YOUR
The Selwyn Response Team (NZ RT21) is looking for volunteers who want to challenge themselves, learn new skills and support Selwyn duringemergencyevents.
Head along to the upcoming information evening on Wednesday, March 4 at 7pm at Selwyn District Council O ces, Rolleston. People are welcome from all backgrounds, no prior emergency experience needed.
For more information, visit selwyn.govt.nz and search undervolunteer.
Country in the Country remains a true family-oriented day. With free entry for everyone aged 17 and under,it’sana ordablewayto bring the whole tribe. While the kids enjoy face painting and rides, adults can sample local food vendors and the onsite bar. For those feeling energetic, line dancing will be infullswingbetweensets. Gates open at 11am, with the music wrapping up at 5:45pm. Parking is located on the northern side of the arena. For those travelling from further afield,overnightself-contained campingisavailable.
“We’ll play rain or shine, so grab your tickets now atleestonv.flicket.co.nz or over the counter at the Crate and Barrel.
Selwyn Holi - Festival of Colours is back for its third year on March 8 at Brookside Park from 11am onwards. The event is about embracing diversity, and o ers a variety of cultural performances, mouthwatering food and the experience of colours to make itunforgettable.SelwynHoli is a family-friendly experience with free entry for all! Nodogsallowedatthisevent.
SONGWRITING CIRCLE SONGWRITING SONGWRITINGCIRCLE CIRCLE SONGWRITING CIRCLE
Local Songwriters and poets are invited to a newly formed monthly songwriting circle, a relaxed Sunday evening in a private settingwhere we share one original piece each (song or poem) and o er gentle, constructive feedback if wanted. This is a space for all original work, whether you’re an experienced writer, a beginner just finding your voice, or someone curious to start creating. The only rule: encouragement, kindness, and honesty in the spiritof growth. Email brightredsweatermusic @gmail.com.
The Best Features of Microsoft Copilot
You may have spotted a colourful new button in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or Outlook. That’s Microsoft Copilot, an AI assistant built into Microsoft 365 to help you work smarter, not harder.
Copilot uses plain language. Instead of memorising shortcuts or navigating endless menus, you simply type what you want done. It responds like a digital assistant, helping you move faster with less frustration.
Here’s where it really shines:
• Word – Draft content, rewrite paragraphs, adjust tone, or summarise long documents in seconds. Perfect for reports, letters, and schoolwork.
• Excel – Ask questions about your data in everyday language. Copilot can highlight trends, create formulas, and suggest charts without you needing to be an expert.
• PowerPoint – Turn notes into structured slides, generate speaker notes, and clean up layouts. Spend less time formatting and more time refining your message.
• Outlook – Summarise long email threads, identify action points, and draft clear, professional replies.
Copilot is designed to remove the intimidation factor from powerful software. Instead of figuring out how the program works, you simply tell it what you want to achieve.
Need help setting it up or learning how to use it properly? Call the Geeks on 0800 424 335.
RACING TO THE SKY FOR BLOOD CANCER
West Melton firefighters are preparing for the climb of their lives to raise money for funds and awareness for Blood Cancer New Zealand.
Back row from
On May 23, ten dedicated members of the West Melton Volunteer Fire BrigadeCallum Sullivan-Roberts, Blair McGregor, Breet Neal, George Wilkins, Jake McEnaney, Jed McCready, Jonathan Coker, Matt Malcom, Richard Coombes, and Simon Boyd— will take on Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower Challenge. Wearing full firefighting gear, they’ll race up 1,103 stairs, climb 51 floors, and ascend 328 meters, all while carrying 25 kilograms of equipment. This demanding eventtestsphysicalendurance, but it’s also a mission to raise funds and awareness for Blood Cancer New Zealand, directly supporting families impacted by blood cancers across the country.
To make the trip to Auckland and participate, the team is rallying community support through fundraising activities.
The Brigade is hosting a Treadmill Marathon Challenge on Saturday, April 11, from 9am to 6pm outside West Melton4Square,followedbya Community Car Wash at West Melton School Car Park (o Weedons Ross Road) on Saturday, May 2, from 9am to 3pm. Locals are encouraged to bring their cars, boats, or caravans for a thorough wash by their neighbourhood firefighters. These events provide opportunities for families to have fun while backingameaningfulcause. Additional fundraisingincludes exciting ra es, with prizes for hot pool fans and netball enthusiasts. Details and updates will be shared on the West Melton Volunteer Fire Brigade Facebook page, where supporters can find the latest information. The Brigade’s e orts are not just about the
challenge; they reflect their ongoing commitment to serving and protecting the localcommunity. As they climb for a cause, they invite everyone to join their mission, extending heartfelt thanks for the community’s unwavering support. Every step taken and every dollar raised brings hope to those a ectedbybloodcancer.Other local brigades joining the challenge include Kate Vandermeer from Kirwee and JasonStaingerfromCoalgate.
via QR Code
Support the Climb. Donate
left are Brett Neal, Jake McEnaney, Jonathan Coker, Richard Coombes and Blair McGregor. Front row from left are Callum Sullivan-Roberts, Simon Boyd and Jed McCready. Absent Matt Malcolm and George Wilkins.
BEHIND THE GATES: A RARE LOOK AT CANTERBURY’S CENTRAL PLAINS WATER IRRIGATION SCHEME
Cantabrians will have a rare opportunity to experience one of the region’s most significant water infrastructure developments when Central Plains Water Limited (CPWL) opens the scheme to the public for a special bus tour onSunday,March15.
The Behind the Gates tour will take visitors from river to farm, revealing how water from the Rakaia River is carefully captured to ensure environmental limits are adhered to and delivered to the farm to support food production and local communitiesacrosstheCentral Plains.
Run in partnership with the Hororata Community Trust and the Central Plains Water Trust, theguidedexperienceincludes exclusive access to the Rakaia River intake, via a journey along part of the scheme’s 17kilometre headrace canal, and a close-up view of the recently constructed labyrinth weir. Guides willshare the story and
engineeringbehindthe project throughoutthetour.
“The aim is to give people a genuineunderstandingofwhat the Central Plains Water Scheme does,” says CPWL Chief Executive, Susan Goodfellow. “We invite the community to see how water moves from river to land, supports food production, and underpins farms and livelihoods across Canterbury, while also learning about the environmental management strategies CPWL has in place to ensure careful management ofthewaterresource.”
Participants will also visit a working farm to see how irrigation water is used in practice before returning to Hororata Hall for a community sausage sizzle and questionand-answer session with the team.
Designed as a relaxed and informative afternoon, thetour isopentoanyoneinterestedin learning more about local infrastructure, responsible
water management, and the systems that support farming withintheschemearea.
“All proceeds will go straight back to the local community,”
Goodfellow says. “This initiative reflects what’s important to us — sustainable water use, food production, positive environmental outcomes, and strong Selwyn communities.”
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PUSH FOR SAFER SH73 THROUGH SHEFFIELD
A strong turnout of residents attended the public meeting on February 18, 2026, to discuss road safety, especially parking, along SH73 by the She eldPieShop.
The meeting, organised by Tāwera Malvern Councillor
John Verry and Malvern Community Boardmember Bex Lambie, generated a wide range of practical and constructive ideas aimed at improving safety for
pedestrians, residents, local businessesandhighwayusers.
Participants discussed measures including bettermanaged parking, improved pedestrian crossing facilities near the Pie Shop and She eld Primary School. As well as clearer township and advance warning signage, and support for the NZTA SH73
She eld township proposed speed limit change from 70km/h to 50km/h, noting submissions close on March 6, 2026.
There was also useful discussion about heavy vehicle movements and the importanceofcoordinatingany changes with NZTA/Waka Kotahi, Selwyn District Council andKiwiRail.
Cr Verry said the tone of the meeting was positive and solution focused.
“The community brought forward thoughtful, practical suggestions. What is clear is
that SH73 through She eld is evolving from a rural highway environment to more of a township main street, and safetytreatmentsneedtokeep pace.”
Ms Lambie noted the value of community input. “Local knowledge is critical. Residents, the school and the business community all contributed insights that will help shape the next stage of discussions.”
Feedback was compiled and circulated to those who provided an email address and will be discussed at the next MCB meeting before raising with NZTA/Waka Kotahi in March, with further opportunities for public input expected through upcoming Councilprocesses.
CrVerrythankedeveryonewho attended and encouraged residents to stay engaged as theworkprogresses.
WORKING BEHIND THE SCENES
While the Tawera Community Trust awaits the outcome of its application for adverse possession of the land occupied by the pool (sometimes known as "squatters'rights")withLINZ,it has been working diligently behind the scenes to get the She eldMemorialPoolupand running for the next season and is pleased to share some exciting news about what's coming up over the next few months.
She eld Memorial Pool has been chosen as the recipient of the annual Malvern Lions Golf fundraiser. The Trust says this is a fantastic opportunity, and it is grateful to the Malvern Lions for their support andcan't waittohelp organise this incredible day out for the community.
In other news, the Trust is currentlyawaitingtheoutcome of its application to the Lotteries Community Fund. The funding would support operating costs, and the replacement of pool covers. A decision is expected by the endofMarch.
The Trust will also have a booth at the Malvern A&P Show on March 28, and members look forward to meeting the public to discuss theirprogressandplansforthe Pool.
The Selwyn District Plan annual plan consultation is set to open soon and is on The Trust’sradar,anditwillkeep a closeeyeondevelopmentsand ensurethattheinterestsofthe pool and community remain represented.
“We're excited to report that we're three-quarters of the waythroughinstallingournew key and security system. Special thanks go to the Rabo Community Fund for their generous grant and to Matt from Security South for supplying and installing the equipment. This upgrade will help keep our facility safe and accessible."
The Trust wishes to thank everyone who continues to support the She eld Memorial
Pool. “With your help, we're making meaningful strides towardsecuringandenhancing
this treasured community facility.”
Tim O’Tool, Nigel Easson and Tegan Holden inspect the pipework at the Sheffield Memorial Pool during a visit to understand more about the leak that has been an ongoing issue.
WHAT’S SHAPING COUNCIL DECISIONS IN ROLLESTON RIGHT NOW?
Rolleston continues to grow rapidly, and with that growth comes the need for careful planning, clear priorities and open conversations with the community. Right now, a combination of local planning work and wider government reforms is influencing how Council looks at services, facilities and future investment.
One of Council’s key pieces of work underway is the Annual Plan for 2026-2027. This sets out what Council will deliver over the coming year and how it will be funded. For fast-growing communities like Rolleston, the challenge is balancing essential infrastructure investment with a ordability for households already feeling cost-of-living pressures. Roads, water, wastewater, stormwater and community facilities all need to keep pace with growth, while also being financially sustainableoverthelongterm.
As part of the Annual Plan process, Council is currently working through budgets and identifying cost savings. While the numbers are still being refined, early modelling indicates an initial draft rates increase of around six percent,
significantly lower than the 13.3 percent previously signalled in the Long-Term Plan. Achieving this reduction requires detailed work to ensure spending is focused on what matters most and that e ciencies are found where possible. This is a starting point, andthere is stillwork to do.
Community input remains a vital part of this process.
Feedback received through consultation (which begins in March) helps shape priorities and ensures decisions reflect local needs and values. As planning work continues, residents are encouraged to stay informed, ask questions and take part in engagement opportunitiesastheyarise. At the same time, councils
across New Zealand are operatinginanenvironmentof ongoing government reform. Changes and reviews a ecting local government funding, infrastructure delivery, planning frameworks and regulatory requirements all influence how councils plan ahead. While not all reforms are finalised, the direction of travel places increased emphasis on financial sustainability, evidence-based investment and making sure services are delivered in the moste ectivewaypossible. Together, local voices, careful planningandanunderstanding of the wider reform environment will help ensure Rolleston continues to be a connected, liveable and resilientcommunity.
MUSIC AND SUN IN THE PARK
Christchurch-based singer-songwriter Steffany Beck was among the line-up of musicians at Darfield Music in the Park last Sunday. Known for her strong performances and original music, Steffany offered an easy-going vibe perfect for a relaxed afternoon in the park. Other musicians included Hazel and Beth and Ben Farrar. Around 250 people enjoyed a laid-back afternoon surrounded by nature and live music.
PRESERVING LOCAL HISTORY
Work by the Darfield Residents Association and, in particular, the restoration work carried out by Matt Williams has resulted in the recovery of a historic artifact, which is now on display alongside the DarfieldJail.
This dray, likely built over 125 years ago, was recovered from the Hawkins riverbed in 2025. It was supplied by P & D Duncan, farm implement suppliers in Christchurch and Ashburton.
Dray is derived from the Old English word “dragan”, to draw,astrong,low-sidedcart.
The Gunn family used the dray on their Hawkes View farm at Racecourse Hill and has had thedraughthorseshaftscuto to allow a tractor draw bar to be fitted. This was probably done in the late 1920s when benzine-powered tractors were replacing them with working horses.
Guy Gunn recalls the dray last being used to feed hay in the
early 1970s. Farmers in this area would have used drays such as this one, or fourwheeled wagons to bring wool bales and bagged grain to the railhead for transport to stores in Christchurch or Lyttelton. Drays were used on farms to carry stooks to be stacked before threshing and to feed haytostock.
Motor lorries started replacing these horse-drawn vehicles in the 1920s, but the motor
lorries were still required to deliver to the nearest rail head,within30miles.
Thanks to Guy and Michael Gunn for gifting the bones and assisting with extraction of this from the riverbed, ITM Darfield for supplying materials used in the restoration and to Errol Ashby for providing the site, as well as the excellent restoration carriedoutbyMattWilliams.
Matt Williams and Errol Ashby install a restored, historic dray that was recovered last year from a local riverbed.
WEST COAST PRINCESS: FRANCENT CROWNED NEW ZEALAND’S BEST
The heart of the West Coast was beating fast at the recent Harness Racing Awards held at Addington on January 31, as the star mare Francent was officiallynamedNewZealand’s 4-Year-OldMare of the Year. It is a crowning achievement for ahorsethathasbecomea true "West Coast Princess" for her ownersandfansalike.
Francent is raced by the Patsy Marie Syndicate, a group made up of the wider Higgins family. While syndicate members Bob and Mary Ireland reside in Darfield, the roots of this success story are firmly planted in the Buller District, where almost all the syndicate memberswerebornandraised. Bred by Robert Higgins in Westport and trained by Mark Jones at Burnham, Francent’s rise to the top of the national rankings is a testament to patience. Her trainer admits that her early days didn't necessarilyscream"champion."
"As a two-year-old, we nearly
gotridofher,"MarkJonessaid.
"We thought she wasn’t going to make a racehorse. Luckily, Bob gave her a bit of time and she just got better and better. It just shows you what horses can do when they have time. It’s been a pleasant surprise andyou’dthinkshewouldonly getbetter."
That "pleasant surprise" has turnedintoanimposingcareer.
Francent boasts a remarkable record of 10 wins from just 24 starts. Her journey has taken her to winner's circles across the country, including victories at Invercargill, Winton, Ashburton, and Methven. She
has proven particularly dominant at Westport and Addington with two wins at each,andreachedthepinnacle of the sport in Auckland with two victories, including a prestigiousGroup1title.
For the Higgins family and the Patsy Marie Syndicate—named after the horse’s fourth dam— the journey has been nothing short of magic. As the family reflects on this national title, they describe the experience as a "wonderful ride" in their twilight years, proving that sometimes the best things in life simplyneeda littletimeto findtheirstride.
DURATION RISK INSIDE “SAFE” INVESTMENTS
By Greg McGeorge, Greg McGeorge, Investment Advisor, InvestmentAdvisor, Shaw and Partners. Shaw and Partners. Partners. Partners.
This dovetails nicely with my last article on FX risk in your share portfolio, this time we look at hidden risks in your bondportfolio.
When investors think about bonds, they think safe and stable, the counterweight that smooths out share market volatility.
But recent years have reminded investors that bonds are not risk-free. One of the most important (and least understood) risks is something calleddurationrisk.
Duration measures how sensitive a bond’s price is to changes in interest rates. The longertheduration,themorea bond’s value will move when
rates change. A shorter duration means smaller price swings.
A useful rule of thumb is if a bond has a duration of five years,andinterestratesriseby 1%, its value will fall by roughly 5%. That’s not guesswork, it’s maths. Bond prices move based on cashflows, time, and prevailing interestrates.
Duration is not the same as maturity. Maturity is the date you are repaid. Duration reflects the weighted average time it takes to receive your money back, including interest payments.Evena10-yearbond can have a much shorter duration depending on its interestrate.
This matters because when rates rise, older bonds with
lower rates become less attractive. Their prices fall to compensate new buyers. The longer you are locked into those lower payments, the largerthefall.
This is what caught many investors out in 2022 and 2023, when rate hikes pushed some bond portfolios down by 10–20%. It wasn’t a failure of bonds, it was a failure to appreciatedurationrisk.
Managing this risk is possible. Shorter-dated bonds are less sensitive to rate moves. Some fundsactivelyadjustduration. Understanding duration is just as important as understanding yield.
As always, speak with your adviser, or contact me if you would like help calculating yourportfolio’sdurationrisk.
MARCH GARDENING GUIDE
March in Canterbury is a busy, transitional time, blending the end of summer with autumn preparations. Focus on harvesting remaining summer crops (tomatoes, cucumbers, melons), planting winter vegetables (brassicas, spinach, onions), and planting springflowering bulbs. Soil preparation is crucial: replenish with compost and mulch to conserve moisture andprepareforplanting.
Give Neil a call on 022 451 7207 or email neiljudith@xtra.co.nz Nothing’s a Problem! • Hole boring (200 – 600) • Sheep & Cattle
• Shingle Supplies
HERB GROWING GUIDE
Fragrant herbs will add a Fragrant will add a flavour punch to any meal, flavour punch to any meal, flavour punch flavour punch particularly when they are particularly when they are particularly when are particularly when are freshly snipped from your freshly from your own garden. Plant in your own garden. Plant in garden beds, pots and garden pots and containers, and you containers, and you containers, and containers, and you’ ’’ ’ll be ll be ll be ll be harvesting a bumper crop of harvesting a bumper crop of harvesting a crop harvesting a crop homegrown herbs this homegrown herbs this homegrown herbs this homegrown herbs this season. season.
PREPARE: PREPARE:
Choose a spot outside that is close to your kitchen, or put pots on a sunny windowsill inside, for easy access. Next choose your herb plants. There are a large variety of herbs to choose from based on your tasteandcookingpreferences.
Like building a house a good foundation is the key to success in your garden. The better the soil, the better your plants will grow. If you are starting with an existing garden bed dig in organic matter like Sheep Pellets andComposttoyoursoil.
Then you can add a layer of Herb Mix, a free draining planting mix, rich in nitrogen topromotegreen,leafygrowth and continuous harvesting. If planting in pots and containers,fillwithHerbMix.
PLANT: PLANT: PLANT: PLANT:
If you’re a first time gardener you may find it easier to grow from seedlings, rather than seeds, although seeds are a more economicaloption. Some herbs are best grown from seed in your garden or pots, such as coriander and parsley. Check seed packets or plant labels for individual planting instructions.
The best times to plant are early in the morning or late in the day, so the plants aren’t exposedtothehotsunstraight away.
Don’t be shy when planting herbs as they quite like close neighbours, and you can always plant herbs in between other plants as they make great space fillers and companionplants.
NOURISH: NOURISH: NOURISH: NOURISH:
HELPFUL TIPS: HELPFUL TIPS: HELPFUL HELPFUL
For novice gardeners a few herbs grown in pots can be the perfect introduction to the joys of ‘growing your own’. For those more experienced gardeners, get inspired in the kitchen and try growing di erent herbs that suit your culinarystyle.
Feed your herbs and they will feed you. Plants use nutrients from the soil as they grow, so replenishing the nutrients ensures your plants grow to their full potential. Feed your herbs with premium fertiliser. Well watered, well nourished herbswillhaveabetterchance of keeping insect pests and diseasesatbay.
SUNFLOWER FIELD SAFETY AND ETIQUETTE
While sunflower fields in the Malvern area make for breathtaking scenery, visitors should remember that many of thesefieldsarepartofworking farms and are private property, not public attractions. To ensure the safety of motorists, pedestrians, and the preservation of the fields themselves, it’s important to follow these guidelines when enjoyingsunflowerviews.
Follow these safety tips for viewing:
• Do Not Trespass: Do Not Trespass: Not Trespass: Not Trespass:Never enterafieldwithoutthe owner’spermissionorifsigns clearlystate“DoNotEnter.”
• Do Not Stop on the Road: Do Not Stop on the Road: Not Stop on Not Stop on Avoidparkingalongbusy roads,asthiscancreate dangeroussituationsforboth driversandpedestrians.
• Use Designated Areas: Use Designated Areas: Designated Areas: Designated Areas:Seek outfarmsthatprovide designatedparkingorhave safeareasspecificallyfor publicviewing.
• Watch for Tra c: Watch for c: Watch for Tra c:Ifparking nearby,stayalerttohighspeedtra c,sincemotorists maynotexpectstopped vehiclesnearsunflower fields.
• Beware of Hazards: Beware of Hazards: Beware Hazards: Beware Hazards:Be cautiousofunevenground, mud,andbeeswhenentering thefield.
• Do Not Pick the Flowers: Do Pick the Flowers: Sunflowersareavaluable cropforfarmers.Picking themisconsideredatheft.
• Protect the Plants: Protect Plants:Avoid tramplingordestroying sunflowersbywalking throughtherows.
• No Drones: No NoDrones: Drones: No Drones:Itisagainstthe lawtoflydronesoverprivate property. By following these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of sunflower fields while keeping yourself, others, and the fields safe.
HELPING YOUR PET LIVE ITS BEST LIFE
With Petfirst Darfield. With Petfirst Darfield. With Petfirst With Petfirst Desexing is an important part of caring for your pet and supporting the wider pet community here in New Zealand. As a rural community clinic, we see firsthand the di erence desexing makes — helping prevent unplanned litters, reducing the number of animals needing homes, and supporting healthier, safer livesforpetsacrossourregion. There are also meaningful health and wellbeing benefits foryourownpet.Desexingcan reduce the risk of certain cancers and infections, includingmammarycancerand uterine infections in females, and testicular cancer in males. It may also help lessen behaviours driven by hormones, such as roaming, fighting, spraying, and restlessness, allowing many pets to feel more settled and contentathome. Every pet is unique, and the right timing and approach can vary depending on their breed, size, age, and overall health. Some pets — particularly certain large breeds or brachycephalic (flat-faced)
breeds — may benefit from a tailored plan and additional monitoring. If your pet has any special considerations, or if you’re unsure about the best time to desex, we strongly encourage a conversation with one of our veterinarians so we can plan the safest and most appropriateapproachforthem.
At Petfirst Veterinary Darfield, weprovidecaring,professional desexing procedures with a strong focus on safety, pain management, and smooth recovery. We understand this
canfeellikeabigstep,andour team is here to guide and supportyouandyourpetevery step of the way. We’ve also recently revised our pricing to help make desexing more accessibleforourcommunity. If you’re thinking about desexing your pet or would like personalised advice, please contact Petfirst Veterinary Darfield on 03 318 8611 to book an appointment or to chat with our friendly team about your pet’s individualneeds.
FROM SKETCH TO SPACEPLANE
...continuedfromfrontpage .
Dawn Aerospace Brand and Spaceplane Marketing Lead
Annelies Powell explains that fostering innovation is key in their startup culture. “Space for innovation requires lots of testing and failing - fly early, fly often and test early, test often,” she says. The company employsabout130people,half ofthoseinNewZealand.
Apprenticeships, though few, play an important role, with Yelena being one of just three apprenticessofar.
The work includes satellite propulsion technology, with Yelena contributing to manufacturing thrusters, electronics, and tanks. Annelies highlighted the importance of finding passion early, saying, “Yelena tapped into that young and went really hard on it. Our
people are agile and move quickly, which is important for DawnAerospace.”
Yelena recently completed her New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Level 4) through Competenz. Her TrainingAdvisor,JohnNortman, supportedher,especiallyduring her move to Dawn Aerospace.
“John was helpful and supportive when I made the tough decision to move companies halfway through my apprenticeship,” Yelena says. He encouraged her to continue towardhigherqualifications.
John describes Yelena as reliable, motivated, and an excellent communicator. He provided clarity during her transition between companies, reinforcing that she was advancing her career by seeking more experience with
complexmachinery.
While women remain underrepresented in engineering, Yelena doesn’t see her gender as a barrier. “I don’t even notice it half the time. All the guys are really supportive and just treat me like one of their own,” she says. She encourages other young women, especially those who enjoy hands-on problem-solving, to consider engineering.
“Engineering can be harder for students to picture because it’s not something you see every day. A lot of people don’t realise manufacturing exists because they don’t have an opportunitytoseeit.”
As she looks to the future, Yelena remains grounded. “I’d like to grow in this job and get into a team lead or managementroleeventually.”
TOP TEAM CHALLENGE
On Friday, February 20, 2026, the energy was sky‑high as Malvern’s contributing primary schools converged on Glentunnel School for the annual Top Team Challenge. Under a dazzling Canterbury summer sky, students threw themselves into an action‑packed day filled with laughter, quick thinking, spirited communication, teamwork,andnonstopfun.
Principal Ed Trotter says it was an epic morning with 245 Year 5/6 tamariki from Glentunnel, Darfield Primary, She eld, Springfield, Kirwee, Hororata, and Windwhistle contributing schools placed in teams of six to eight students with Year 5's verses Year 6's. Each year, teams are of mixed gender andschool,sotamariki can collaborate, get to know each other, and problem solve their way through the 16 di erenteventstations.
Two teams competed at each problem-solving station for five minutes of mahi, with points awarded for the time taken to complete the activity. At the end of the one-and-ahalf-hour event, points were calculated to find out the winningTopTeam.
The Lightning Bolts team
(consisting of eight tamariki with two students from each school) came first with 765 points, followed by 'Squidwards' in second place with 680 points, and third place went to'Fantastic Foxes' with 645 points. Each member of the winning teams received a free voucher for a swim at any of the Christchurch Cityrunpublicpools.
Principal Trotter thanks
everyone for their support on the day. “Our parent helpers from all schools, school sta , our wonderful Year 5/6 tamariki from Malvern Contributing Primary Schools, and Issy from Primary Sport Canterbury, did a marvellous job. We are already looking forwardtonextyear'seventon Friday, February 19, 2027, at GlentunnelSchool.”
What is Top Team? What is Top Team? What is Top Team? Top Team, run by Primary Sport Canterbury, is a series of interactive team-building challenges designed to promote problem-solving, communication and teamwork while being active and having fun. Top Team is unique in that it is designed with all abilities, including those with disabilities, in mind. This helps remove the ‘intimidation’ factor of physical activity and increases confidence among non -participating rangatahi (youth) to take part in future events. Top Team encourages maximum participation and fun!
DARFIELD ADVENTURE RUN
Members of Halswell Run and Darfield locals took to the streets and trails of Darfield lastSundayforafunrun.
The event was organised by Anna Phi, who recently moved tothe area, andis a run leader andmemberofHalswellRun.
Anna says 17 runners of all abilities took part, with frequent loopbacks, so no one wasleftbehind.
“We explored much of Darfield trails, streets and McHugh's
Forest. Runners completed a variety of distances from 8km to 16km. We always finish our runs with a social catch-upandthis week we hadpost-run treats at the Dalethorpe House Cafe. We hope to do an Adventure Run in the area on the third Sunday of every month.”
Everyone is welcome, and the eventisfree.“Weorganisethe runs as we know the positive impact it has on people's
mental and physical wellbeing,”saysAnna.
Adventure Runs are held every Sunday all over Canterbury. Look out for details for the next local Adventure Run on the Darfield Community Facebook Page, or stay up to date on the Halswell Run Facebookpage.
Children from Glentunnel, Hororata, Windwhistle and Kirwee schools took part in the Malvern Primary Schools Top Team event.
OLD GHOST ULTRA RUNNING EVENT
On February 21, 2026, those who revel in exploring their mental and physical limits had an opportunity to do just that at the Old Ghost Ultra on the West Coast. Traversing the stunning85kmOldGhostRoad and featuring more than 2,600 metres of ascent, the event o ers competitors theultimate test in backcountry running. The trail follows a restored gold miners' road through dense forest, open tops, and river valleys, starting at the northern end of the road near Seddonville and finishing at Lyell.
Local athletes from the Malvern turned out in force to tackle theruggedterrain. Anna Willats from West Melton deliveredastrongperformance in the Masters Women's category, finishing 19th with a time of 12:14:33. Lyndsey McGuinniety from Kirwee also conquered the course, crossing the finish line in 14:26:07 to take 33rd place in the Masters Women'sfield.
Blair McIlroy from Darfield had a particularly memorable outing, placing 25th in the Masters Men's category and 82nd overall. Averaging a speedof 8.06 km/h anda pace of 07:26 min/km, Blair secured a personal best time of 10 hours and 32 minutes. This achievement was the culmination of an intense period of racing, following closely on the heels of competing in the Coast to Coastwithhisbrothers.
Reflectingontheachievement, Blair noted that a significant amount of training and time away from home went intothe result. He expressed immense gratitude to his wife, Kelly, noting her support was the reason the day went so well, and described the emotional moment of having Jack and Sophie run up the finishing chute with him after 85km. He also shared his gratitude for theadviceandtraininghelphe receivedfromothers.
DARFIELD SENIOR B CLAIM CANTERBURY COUNTRY T20 TITLE
Anzco Foods Darfield Senior B won the Canterbury Country Senior T20 Grade. Darfield senior Bs secured the Canterbury Country T20 title on Friday evening at Darfield with a convincing7 wicket win overWeedonsColts.
Manager Shannon McAleer commented: "The match was set up in the first inning when Noah Whiteside claimed 3 wicketinanovertoblowaway the weedons middle order. An valiant attempt was made to salvage the innings by Jack kane and Tobias Delahunty withclevershotplacementand high energy running taking themthroughto103/7.
Darfieldchaseddownthescore thanks to Will Davidson and Gideon Welfordscoring34 and 35 in good time allowing Andrew Bell and Nathan Hubbardtofinisho thematch with burst of boundaries and 3 andahalfoverstospare."
Currently, this Senior B side holds all trophies available to them, including the overall grade trophy from winninglast season, the T20 trophy, and the Claw Cup, which they retained after a hard-fought 8run victory against Weedons Colts. In that fixture, Weedons Colts won the toss and elected to bowl, but standout performances from Jayden McIntyre (24), Andrew Bell (33), andKarlJosephs (53)saw Darfield finish their 40 overs on188/8.
TheWeedonschasewas ledby opener Ethan Seath with 44 runs, supported by Jack Kane (26) and George Newell (37). However, the Darfield bowlers proved too strong; Noah Whiteside was once again clinical,taking3wicketsfor26 runs from his 8 overs, while KarlJosephs alsonabbedthree wickets and Reid McKinnon claimedtwo.
Senior Grade: Weedons Edge Senior Grade: Out Greendale Out OutGreendale Greendale Out Greendale In other Senior Grade action, Greendale faced o against Weedons Seniors in a thriller that saw Weedons win by just 1 wicket. Greendale won the toss and elected to bat, with opener Lewis Lee scoring a quick 22, followed by Sean Carston with 31. Tobi Moore anchored the middle order, scoringjustover50runso 48 balls. For Weedons, Naveen Kumar and Savy Sandhu were the pick of the bowlers with 3
wicketseach.
The second innings saw Weedons Captain Hasitha Wijesuriya score 27, while Kuljit Deol top-scored with a vital 38 not out to see them home.GreendalebowlersTodd Thomas and Sean Carston fought hard, taking 3 wickets apiece.
In the Premier Grade, Darfield secureda 2-wicket win against Ohoka. Ohoka batted first and were bowled out for 167 in 42.2 overs, with Gus Wiseman, Robbie Foulkes, and Isaac Earl all taking 2 wickets each. In the chase, Jessie Frew (40)and Ryan Hughes (43)providedthe necessary runs to secure the points.
Looking ahead, the Premier team travels to play Weedons Premier this week, while the Senior B Grade enjoys a week o .
SWIM, BIKE, RUN, SMILE!
The Selwyn Kids Triathlon on Sunday, March 22, at Foster Park and Selwyn Aquatic Centre follows the traditional swim, bike, run format of triathlon. The event is designed for primary schoolagedchildrenandstructuredto give them an introductory experience to the sport through a fun, positive and
encouragingatmosphere. The event is run out of the Selwyn Aquatic Centre and Foster Park in Rolleston. The participants will swim in the poolcomplexanduponexiting thepool,grabtheirbikes,push them across Broadlands Drive and begin the bike course. Within the confines of Foster Park, they will complete the
bike and run components of the race before finishing the event. The focus of the event is participation and completion. Each participant will receive a gift as a ‘memento’ of their participation, which they can be proud of earning upon completion. To enter, visit selwynsportstrust.org.nz.
Darfield Senior Team, back row from left Nathan Hubbard, Jack Kennedy, Noah Whiteside, Gideon Welford. Isaac Earl, Andrew Bell, David Beatty (Club President) and Raash Mukherjee. Front row from left Henry Pratt, Matt Ashworth, Thomas Calcott, Jayden McIntyre, Will Davidson and Bodie Hawkins.
Blair McIlroy after completing the 85km run with his wife Kelly, and children Sophie and Jack.
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