The rural heart of our community was on full display recently as Thirsty Acres hosted a sold-out crowd for its latest monthly Dinner Club event, organised by Thirsty Acresowner,JonoAlve.
The evening, titled the "Lumina Lamb Experience," served as a masterclass in local collaboration, featuring a menu centred around premium cuts from Lumina Farms.
The event brought together the culinary expertise of Thirsty Acres’ own Chef Thom Dunbar and Lumina Chef Darren Wright. Together, they crafted a multi-course journey that celebrated the innovation
and hard work inherent in our local agricultural sector. Adding a unique "paddock-toplate"perspectivetothenight, Dan Harper of Quartz Hill Stationwasonhandtosharea farmer’s insight into what makes this the world’s best lamb.
The menu was a testament to the versatility of the product and the talent in the kitchen. Guests began theeveningwith a delicate Lamb Loin Tataki paired with a refreshing cucumber, ginger, and daikon salad. This was followed by a rich, twice-cooked Lamb Short Rib accompanied by a vibrant pomegranate and date chutney. Continuedonpage4...
Well-known Lumina Chef Darren Wright spent a few days in the kitchen with Thirsty Acres Chef Thom Dunbar helping with the Lumina Lamb Experience.
COUNTRY IN THE COUNTRY
The Ellesmere A&P Showgrounds in Leeston were transformed into a vibrant country music haven this past Saturday,March14,asCountry in the Country returned for its highlyanticipatedsecondyear. Buildingonitsdebut,the2026 editiondrewawelcomecrowd, firmly establishing the festival as a premier fixture on the local event calendar. Under clear, sunny skies, fans of all ages gathered to enjoy a day that perfectly blended worldclass entertainment with a relaxed, grassroots community spirit.
The atmosphere was electric from the moment gates opened at 11:00am. Families took full advantage of the "picnic welcome" policy, spreading blankets across the greens while enjoying a wide arrayoffoodcartsandcarnival attractions. The musical lineup delivered non-stop talent, beginning with soulful sets from Zayde Blair and Ste any Beck. As the afternoon progressed, Adam McGrath &
The Eastern brought their signature high-energy folkrock to the stage, followed by a powerful performance from Sisterhood. The day reached its peak with a headline set by global country sensation Kaylee Bell, whose performance left the capacity crowd buzzing until the event concludedat6:00pm.
Changeover time was filled with line dancing from “Buckles and Boots” Rolleston leadingthethrong.
True to its family-first mission, the festival o ered free entry for those 17 and under, ensuring the grounds were alive with activity, from face painting to all-ages entertainment.
Injusttwoshortyears,Country intheCountryhascarvedouta uniquespaceforitself,proving that the Ellesmere A&P Showgrounds is a top-tier venue for large-scale communitycelebrations.Itwas a spectacular day of music and memories that Leeston won't soonforget.
Kris Wooles and Christine Lawn, winners of the Malvern and Rolleston News double pass giveaway, thoroughly enjoyed the event.
SDC SIGNALS TOUGHER LINE ON RATES INCREASES
The release of Selwyn District Council’s (SDC) Draft Annual Plan 2026–2027 signals a clear shift in focus, with rates a ordability now firmly at the centreofthediscussion.
While ratepayers want SDC to keep rates increases low, that expectation comes with an important condition — residents still expect reliable core services, well-maintained infrastructure, and no obvious decline in day-to-day service delivery.
Some councils are already demonstrating what a more disciplined approach can look like. Whanganui District Council indicate an average rates increase of just 2.2%, possibly the lowest in the
country, achieved through structural savings, tighter cost control, and a strong focus on deliveringcoreserviceswell. Thatsamefocusisincreasingly expected of SDC and Selwyn WaterLimited. Choices will inevitably need to be made. Keeping rates increases low requires visible trade-o s, such as reduced mowing, shorter public access hours or higher charges. In simple terms, the priority is becoming clear: pick up the rubbish, fix the pipes, and fill inthepotholes.
Selwyn councillors are seeking feedback on three weightedaverage rates options of 6.5%, 5.4%, and 4.9%, all significantly below the 13.3%
increase previously forecast in the Long-Term Plan. Note that the Selwyn Water Limited water rate will be extra to the SDC.
The Draft AnnualPlan sets out these options and explains where spending has been reduced or deferred while still protecting essential infrastructure and services. Residents are encouraged to read the consultation material and provide feedback electronicallyorinhard-copy.
If you would like to discuss If you discuss the Annual Plan or arrange a the Annual Plan or arrange meeting with councillors, with councillors, please contact Cr John Verry, please contact Cr John Verry, please contact Cr John Verry, please contact Cr John Verry, Tāwera Malvern Ward Malvern john.verry@selwyn.govt.nz. john.verry@selwyn.govt.nz.
LOCAL FLAVORS SHINE AT THIRSTY ACRES’ LUMINA LAMB EXPERIENCE
...continuedfromfrontpage. ...continuedfromfrontpage. ...continuedfromfrontpage. ...continuedfromfrontpage. The main courses continued to impress, featuring a herbcrusted rack of lamb alongside crumbedsweetbreads,followed byatwistontheclassicSunday Roast, boned lamb leg, rolled with fresh herbs and garlic, served with a Yorkshire pudding filled with Beauregard kumara puree and roast Agria potatoes. To round out the thematic evening, the meal concluded with a silky sheep
milkpannacotta.
Attendees noted that the evening was about more than just a meal; it was an opportunity to experience new anddaringflavorcombinations.
Thirsty Acres expressed immense pride in working with local suppliers who are growing world-class food right hereinourownbackyard.
The Thirsty Acres Dinner Club isalreadylookingforwardtoits next event in early April. With
spaces strictly limited, previous attendees are given the first option to rebook, meaning seats fill up incredibly fast. Once the event is promoted on Facebook, locals are encouraged to act quickly and book early to secure a spot at what is rapidly becoming a premier highlight of the community’s social and culinarycalendar.
CELEBRATING 142 YEARS OF THE HORORATA RACING CLUB
On Saturday, 21 March 2026, the local community will gather at Riccarton Park to celebrate a remarkable milestone: the 142nd year of the Hororata Racing Club. Now promoted as "Riccarton ParkHororata," the club’s journey from a humble meeting of 26 enthusiasts in 1884 to a premier fixture in New Zealand’s racing calendar is a testamenttoprovincialspirit. The club’s beginnings were a far cry from the modern era. In 1885, the inaugural meeting featured a course marked only bymanukastakes,withpatrons arriving via excursion trains to Coalgate before walking the final miles to the track. It wasn't until the 1920s that a full running rail was installed. While the club moved its operationstoRiccartonin1965 to meet modern standards, it has never lost its deep-rooted connection to the Hororata district.
Tradition remains at the heart oftheclub.Thisyearmarksthe 40thanniversary oftherevived "LadiesBracelet,"agoldtrophy donatedby Petersens Jewellers sincethe1984Centennial.This year, the coveted prize is attached to the three-year-old feature, continuing a legacy that began at the very first meeting.
The 2026 raceday is set to be the most prestigious in the club’s history. The $110,000 Group 3 South Island Thoroughbred Breeders Stakes, sponsored by Donaldson Brown, headlines a ten-race programmewithtotalstakesof
$465,000. Other highlights include the Seaton Family Memorial Hororata Gold Cup anda"goldenticket"qualifying race for the $350,000 TAB SouthernAlpsChallenge. As we look forward to the thundering hooves on March 21,wealsopausetoremember two stalwarts lost this past year: former presidents Dennis Watson and Les Bennetts, who passed at ages 87 and 101 respectively. Their lifelong service ensures that while the venue has changed, the enthusiastic community spirit of Hororata racing remains as strongasever.
YOUR LOCAL AUTO SUPER SHOPPE IN DARFIELD
Next year marks 100 years since a mechanical workshop has been operating on the corner of Thornton and South Terrace in Darfield, serving generations of local residents, farmers, and businesses. Throughout the decades, the sitehasremainedanimportant part of the community, providing trusted vehicle servicing and repairs while building a reputation for reliability, practical expertise, andfriendlycustomerservice.
In more recent years, Darfield Automotive has continued that proud tradition, becoming a well-known and respected name throughout the wider Selwyn District. Known for honest advice and quality workmanship, the workshop has played a vital role in keeping the community safely ontheroad.
For the past nine years, the business has been proudly ownedand operatedby Janelle and Macca, who have continued the workshop’s long
-standing commitment to dependable service and strong community values. Under their ownership, the focus has remained on delivering highquality repairs, practical solutions, and a welcoming experience for every customer whowalksthroughthedoor.
In a rural town like Darfield, vehicles are essential for work, family life, and travel throughout the region. Janelle, Macca, and their team understand this, which is why they place great importance on e cient service, clear communication, and repairs that customers can trust. From routine servicing and WOF preparation to diagnostics and mechanical repairs, the team works hard to ensure every vehicle leaves the workshop safeandreliable.
The workshop has recently had a facelift and rebranded to Auto Super Shoppe Darfield.
The transition to Auto Super Shoppe Darfield marks an exciting new chapter while
continuingtheproudhistory of the workshop. Being part of the Auto Super Shoppe network allows the team to combine their local knowledge and experience with the support of a trusted nationwide brand, giving customers added confidence throughmoderntools,training, and nationwide warranty support.
While the name has evolved, the heart of the business remains the same—local people providing honest service and quality repairs for theDarfieldcommunity.
Janelle and Macca would Janelle Macca would like to thank the like to thank the thank thank following for their following their services and expertise: services and expertise: and expertise: and expertise:
• Micky from Micky from Micky Micky Conway Decor Conway Decor Conway Conway
• Matt from Matt from Matt from Matt from Evolution Design Evolution Design Evolution Design Evolution Design
Gumboot Friday delivered significant support for young people in February 2026, helping 1,754 New Zealanders aged 5–25 access free counselling. In total, 2,721 sessions were provided through the Gumboot Friday platform, where every appointment is free, requires no referral, and is chosen by the young person fromanetworkofregisteredcounsellors.
The reach across age groups highlights strong demandforearlysupport:490childrenaged5–11(28%),510youngpeopleaged12–17(29%), and 754 aged 18–25 (43%). Together, these figures show what early intervention can look likein practice—youngpeoplebeingseenwhen they need help, rather than waiting until problemsescalateintocrisis.
IAm Hope founder Mike Kingsays the numbers represent real children, many still in primary school, whose distress may not be obvious. “A child who needs to talk doesn’t always look ‘obviously’ distressed,” he says, noting it can appear as irritability, withdrawal, poor sleep, or
actingout—or sometimes with noclear signs at all.Whatmatters,Mikesays,isthattheygetthe chance to talk with someone who truly listens beforechallengesbuildup.
Government funding covers the counselling sessions themselves, while donations to I Am HopekeepGumbootFridayoperating,including onboarding counsellors, maintaining systems, andsupportingschoolprogrammes.
Young people aged 25 and under can Young aged 25 and under can access support at gumbootfriday.org.nz. access support at gumbootfriday.org.nz.
To donate or get involved, visit To donate or get involved, visit To get involved, visit To get involved, visit iamhope.org.nz or text HOPE to 469 iamhope.org.nz or text HOPE to 469 iamhope.org.nz or text iamhope.org.nz or text for a $3 donation. for a $3 donation. for a for a
At the beginning of December 2025 Gordon and Johanna Rosewall stepped into the role of Interim Lead Pastors of the Selwyn Life Churches,Darfield,LeestonandRolleston. The couple met as teenagers in their church youth group and have never looked back. They were married while still at university and celebratedtheirgoldenweddingin2024.Their three adult children and seven grandchildren are scattered between New Zealand, London (UK)andPhoenix(Arizona).
GordanandJobothcomefromabackgroundof highschoolteaching,andtogetherhaveserved as youth pastors, planted churches, and assisted and advised churches while living in theNetherlandsforfiveyears.
On their return to New Zealand, they became the Lead Pastors at Life Church Timaru. Fulfilling a long-held desire to engage in formal theological training Gordon pursued further study and completed an applied theology degree part-time over a period of twelveyearsduringhistimeofleading. Gordon has a strong community focus which led to serving on the Safer Community Council of the Timaru District Council, chairing
Other help is also available for all ages:
Other help is also available for all ages:
Other help is also available for all ages:
Other help is also available for all ages:
• 1737 Need to Talk: 1737 Need to Talk: 1737 Need 1737 Need Callortext1737 anytimeforfreecounselling(allages). 1737.org.nz
the governance team for the local Restorative Justice initiative known as Project Turnaround, andbeingpartoftheadvocacygroupofAlcohol ActionNewZealand.
Jo’s love of language led to many years of teaching international students English, at Mountainview High School and then at Craighead Diocesan School, before retiring at theendof2021.
After leading Life Church Timaru for 25 years, Gordon and Jo handed over the church leadership in 2022. Since then, they have continued to be involved in marriage counselling, mentoring young leaders and pastors,andspeakingaroundNewZealand.
Gordon and Johanna Rosewall.
TAKE YOUR HAND OFF THE PANIC BUTTON
By Ginny Nelson, By Ginny Nelson, Nelson, Nelson, GMI Mortgage & Insurance GMI Mortgage & Insurance Insurance Insurance Advisor.
So many reports regarding falling house prices and high interest rates – if you read themyouwilllosesleep!
The property market has seen itsshareoffallsinvalue,butit always comes back. A house
wasnevermeanttobealiquid asset – one that you can sell quickly to reap a profit. It has longbeenrecognisedasalong term gain proposition in spite oftherecentgoodrun.
If you hang on to those nonliquid assets for long enough, you are usually rewarded with profit. Lookafteryourhomeas
best as you can a ord, and makeyourbudgetcutstomeet themortgagepayments. Get creative and make it a family project to cut the costs, keep the roof over your head andthewolffromthedoor. Good times will come again so take your hand o the panic buttonandhanginthere.
HISTORIC ‘HILLCREST’ FINDS NEW LIFE AFTER 140 YEARS
By Karen Rawley. By Karen Rawley. Karen Rawley. Karen Rawley.
The Darfield Genealogy and Local History Group's most recent gathering was at the historic house "Hillcrest" in Courtenay, near Kirwee, on a sunny Saturday morning.
Current owners Chris and Nicola Peacock bought the partially restored property from Alex Bayley and Simon Brown in 2017 and are continuing a sympathetic restoration of the historic home, carefully using periodappropriate materials where possible while ensuring the house is also comfortable for modernliving.
"Hillcrest"wasbuiltin1877by earlysettlerWilliamDunlopon a large block of swampy land close to the Styx River in Marshland, Christchurch. Mr. Dunlop played a prominent part in local a airs and public bodies in Canterbury, including the Lyttelton Harbour Board and the Selwyn County Council.
Fourteen Dunlop children were raised in the two-story home at Marshland. The property changed hands many times over the years, even surviving the Christchurch earthquakes.
The 140-year-old building was considered historically and socially significant by the Christchurch City Council, so it was not demolished when developers purchased the land for the new Prestons subdivision; instead, it was sold to Alex Bayley and Simon Brownin2013.
Hillcrest was then relocated to its current position at Courtenayontolandwhichwas once part of thehistoric Desert Run station established in the 1850s.
The garden surrounding the house has some planting of exotic trees and shrubs and an orchard containing fruit trees that would not have been out of place in the 1870s. Chris and Nicola Peacock have further plans to develop the
The Darfield Genealogy and Local History Group would like to thank Nicola and Chris for allowing us the privilege of visiting their special home and garden.
gardens befitting a historic home.
Historic house "Hillcrest" in Courtenay, near Kirwee.
FAMILY LEGACY CONTINUES
A well-knownlocalcontracting business is entering a new chapter,withAdamandSophie Dalley o cially taking over from Neil Walker on April 1 and rebranding as Dalley Contracting. Keeping the business in the family was important to everyone involved. Adam has worked alongside Neil for several years and says he has valued his father-in-law’s mentorship during that time. AsNeilstepsintosearchingfor a job, the couple say they are
grateful for his continued support and wish him all the best.
Dalley Contracting will continue delivering the same services clients have come to rely on, maintaining the established standard of work. These include lawn and driveway construction, hole boring, excavation work, calf shed and yard clear-outs, shed foundation dig-outs, and shinglesupplies.
Adam brings strong practical experience to the role. Having
grown up on a local family farm, he later trained as a heavy diesel mechanic and is no stranger to machinery. Many in the community will also know him through his involvement with the Kirwee Rugby Club, where he volunteers as groundsman. He helped prepare the field for the Crusaders and Blues preseason game, a highlight for theclub.
Sophie will continue her role as a teacher at Annabel’s fouryear-old kindergarten while supporting the business behindthescenes.
“This business has been a big part of Dad’s life for a long time, so it feels pretty special that we can continue his legacy and hard work,” Sophie says. “Adam and I are excited for the change and can’t wait to get stuck in and see what wecanachieve.”
Adam says he is looking forward to building on the strong foundation already in placeandcontinuingtodeliver the level of service clients expect.
They are excited to see where they can take the business in thefuture.
To follow their journey To follow their journey To their journey To their journey and keep up with keep up with projects and community community work, follow Dalley Contracting Ltd Dalley Contracting Ltd Dalley Dalley on Facebook on Facebook and Instagram. Instagram.
Pictured left to right: Walter, Adam, Sophie and Freddie Dalley with Jude and Neil Walker.
EVENT TRAIN FOR MALVERN.
WOULD YOU USE IT?
There is a realpossibility of an "Event Train" (operated by Mainland Rail) servicing parts of Tāwera Malvern for major events in Christchurch. This would include Crusaders games at One New Zealand Stadium (starting April 24/25) andtheSix60concertinMay.
Mainland Rail is currently looking at Springfield, She eld, Darfield, and Kirwee to assess potential passenger numbers (note: platforms
alreadyexistinSpringfieldand Darfield). To help build a strong business case, real data isneeded.
If an event train ran from Darfield (and/or Springfield) to Christchurch for major games and concerts, would you use it?
• Which events would interestyou?
• How many people in your household would likely travel?
• Would you prefer rugby, concerts,orboth?
Please message Ann-Maree Ozanne on Facebook directly or comment on the facebook post in either the "Darfield, New Zealand, Community Group" or "She eld, Waddington & Springfield, NZ - I ROTO I TE ĀTĀRANGI O TAWERA"-searchtrain.
Let Let’ ’’ ’s show that true Cantab s that true Cantab s spirit and get behind this! and get this!
BIG TURNOUT AT SELWYN HARVEST FESTIVAL
Selwyn’s rich rural roots and booming food scene were on full display at the Selwyn Harvest Festival on Saturday 14 March, with more than 12,000 people flocking to Rolleston Town Centre’s greenspace behind Te Ara Ātea.
The free community event transformed the area into a bustling farmers’ market, with produce brought straight from over 30 of Selwyn’s top growers, producers and wineries. Families and food lovers sampled local flavours, watched tastings and demonstrations, and learned moreaboutthedistrict’sstrong paddock-to-plateculture.
For Selwyn-based sponsor The GoodOil,thedaywasachance to reconnect with the community close to home, marketing and brand manager
AndyO’Malley-Morasays.
“It’s the perfect fit. Many people don’t know we’re just acrossthetraintracksiniZone; they tend to get excited when they hear that,” he says.
“Harvest time is an exciting time for us. A lot of our sunflowers are blooming so that’sfreshinpeople’sminds.”
Council Executive Director Community Services and Facilities, Denise Kidd, says the festival highlighted both Selwyn’s producers and its strongcommunityspirit.
“Ourproducersareattheheart of what makes Selwyn unique, and harvest is a key time for them,” she says. “With the growing interest in paddock to plate eating, it’s a great opportunity to support them and boost our economy. It’s fantastic tohave sponsors who recognise the value of supportingSelwynbusinesses.”
Crowds also enjoyed live music, community garden displays, farmyard animals, pony rides, an epic inflatable zone, amusement rides, a hay bale maze and the festival’s first scarecrow competition, adding colour and creativity to a lively autumn day out in Selwyn.
FIRST FULL RUBBER ROAD SURFACE IN GLENTUNNEL
The Selwyn District Council haslaidNewZealand’sfirstfull rubber road surface on Glentunnel Domain Road, showcasing how innovative thinking can turn a nationwide waste challenge into a communitybenefit.
In partnership with HEB Construction and Treadlite New Zealand, the project utilises locally recycled rubber crumb to replace traditional gravel and bitumen, reducing relianceonimportedmaterials.
International results show that rubberizedsurfaceslastlonger, perform better in extreme
weather, and create roads that are safer and quieter. Mayor Lydia Gliddon stated the project reflects Selwyn’s commitment to building smarter infrastructure that improves value for money. With over six million tyres reaching their end of life in New Zealand annually, this trial has the potential to reshape how the country maintainsitsroadingnetwork.
Thetrialfeaturesthreedistinct sections to assess performance under local conditions, including rubber-modified asphalt and a full rubber
surfaceandbaselayer.
Executive Director of Infrastructure Tim Mason noted the goal is to design roads that cost less to maintain while supporting Kiwi-made recycling solutions. If successful, rubberised surfacing could be rolled out more widely across the district’s 1,359km of sealed roads.
Rubber roads at a glance: Rubber roads at a glance: Rubber at a glance: Rubber at a glance:
SELWYN WATER STRATEGY: WHAT IT MEANS FOR HOUSEHOLDS
Selwyn Water Limited has given Selwyn District Council (SDC) a draft 10‑year plan for drinking water and wastewater, along with draft prices for 2026/27. The key message for consumers is that the likely increase in water charges next year is now lower than first forecast, and future bills will be clearer about what you’re paying for.
Selwyn Water says improved information about the district’s water assets has helped it refine its first-year pricing while still planning for upgrades needed in a fast-growing district. Mayor Lydia Gliddon says the Council has heard community concerns about a ordability and a focus on core services.
Overall, the forecast increase has reduced from 24% to 18%. Selwyn Water stresses the 18% is still a draft and may change after consultation.
Big change from 1 July 2026 Big change from 1 July 2026 change from 1 July 2026 change from 1 July 2026
From 1 July 2026, water and wastewater charges will no longer be part of SDC rates. Instead, households will receive direct, itemised bills from Selwyn Water, showing whatchargescover.
What happens next What happens next What happens What happens
What this means for your bill
What this means for your (draft figures): (draft figures):
Council feedback is underway, with public engagement expected to open in May 2026. Selwyn Water will also seek feedback on its draftSignificanceandEngagementPolicyfrom 23March.
More information More information information information
Selwyn Water’s website and communication channelsareexpectedtogoliveinearlyApril. For updates in the meantime, For updates in meantime, residents can visit and sign up at residents can visit sign up at
New Zealand’s first full rubber road surface on Glentunnel Domain Road.
BRASS BAND SPECTACUL BRASS BAND SPECTACUL SPECTACULAR AR AR
Join Rolleston Brass and Addington Brass for an afternoon of inspiring music at the Aldersgate Centre, 309 Durham Street North, on Sunday,March29,at2pm.
As both bands prepare for the upcoming NZ Brass Band Championships, this special showcase offers a rare opportunity to hear their major contest programmes performedlive. Entry is by recommended koha of $10 for adults and$5 for children. Come along to support the local musicians and enjoy a preview of championship-level brass artistry.
SOCIAL NETBALL SOCIAL SOCIALNETBALL NETBALL
Malvern Netball Centre is looking for more players that arekeentojoinintheirSocial Grade. Games are played every Saturday morning at a certain time slot and there are no games over the long weekends.
Likewise the Centre would like to hear from any High School aged netballers that are also keen to play. Join a bunch of like-minded people andhavesomefun.
Can’t play netball without umpires - if anyone would like to umpire or learn to umpire then contact your Club.
Visit malvernnetball.co.nz for Clubdetails.
COMMITTEE BASICS COMMITTEE COMMITTEEBASICS BASICS
Yes, there is a “right” way of how Committees and Board should work. Having clear and structured processes for your meetings, decision-making and what happens in-between is a great foundation for keeping your organisation running, growing it, and managing disagreements which can paralyse an organisation. This workshop, held 25 March 2026, at West Melton Community and Recreation Centre aims to provide some clarity about roles, responsibilities and the structure of meetings. Hosted by Community Capacity Accounting, with support from SDC. .. . Register on the SDC websiteunderevents.
ROLLESTON IMPROVEMENTS WORK TO IMPACT SH1 TRAFFIC
Planned roading construction over coming weekends at a prominent Rolleston intersection is expected to mean some delays and disruptionforroadusers.
As part of the Rolleston Access Improvements project, a new roundabout is being constructed to improve traffic flows at the State Highway 1/ Main South Road intersection with Dunns Crossing Road and Walkers Road. This coming weekend and the following, traffic restrictions due to be in place overnight at the intersection will enable roading crews to build new
roads that will connect to the new roundabout, and to lay asphalt for the roading surface.
Road users should allow about anadditional10minutes when travelling in the area. Two lanes will be open on a temporary gravel surface on the Saturday and Sunday of bothweekends,between10am and 7pm. This work is weather dependentandmayneedtobe rescheduled if the conditions requireit.
Doing the SH1 work at night and at weekends, when traffic volumes are lower, minimises the disruption while also
making it safer for the roading crews. There will be some noise from trucks and machinery, which the crews will seek to limit as much as possible. Additional lighting will be required in the work area, which will be directed away from houses where possible.
In addition to the SH1 restrictions, access from SH1/ Main South Road to Walkers Road (for a rail level crossing upgrade) is due to be closed fromFriday20Marchforabout three months. Pedestrian access around the intersection worksitewillbemaintained.
DARFIELD CRICKET UPDATE
Darfield prems secured a spot in the Canterbury Country one day competition final with a comprehensive 158 run win overPleasantPointinthesemi finalplayedat Darfielddomain onSaturday.
Cam Paul scored 105 runs from 86 balls to anchor the innings allowing Nick Gilbert (55), Jordy Frew (33) and Ryan Hughes(26)tobataroundhim.
Darfield went into the innings break having scored a healthy 278/5fromtheir45overs.
Pleasant Points’ top 3 batters produced 1 run between them
essentially stalling the chase and no one else could o er much resistance. Dismissed in the 30th over for 121 their seasonended.
Wickets were shared with Jack Middleton and Gus Wiseman taking 2 each and Isaac Earl andJordyFrew3apiece.
Darfield take on Weedons in thefinaltodeterminewhowill lifttheFulton-WrightCupFirst ball is 12.30pm Saturday 21st MarchatWeedonsdomain.
In the Senior Semi-final Anzco Foods Darfield Senior B’s won the toss against Swannanoa
and elected to bat first. Karl Josephs was the top scorer with 45 runs o 64 balls.
Darfield were all out for 139/10 o 35.2 overs. In return the opposition opening batters secured the win scoringthemajorityofthe141 ballsfrom17.5overs.
The senior final is between Swannanoa and Ohoka on Saturday.
TheDarfieldDogsT20wonthe post Christmas B Bottom 7 round Grand Final against Leeston/SouthbridgeCarnies.
ROLLESTON MUM WALKS 85KM TO SUPPORT THE SERVICE THAT SAVED HER DAUGHTER
This March, Jess Petersen from Rolleston is embarking on an epic 85km fitness challenge with a deeply personal motivation: to keep the Starship National Air Ambulance flying for families justlikehers.
For Jess, the Starship National Air Ambulance isn’t just a service; it was a lifeline during her family’s darkest hours. Her daughter, Roxie, was born healthy in September 2025, but at just 11 days old, she was rushed to Christchurch Hospital with sepsis caused by a Staphylococcus Aureus infection. What followed was a harrowing medical journey involving a retropharyngeal abscess, spinal cord surgery, and a terrifying relapse in November.
"Everything was a blur," Jess recalls of the night Roxie went downhill. "Doctors warned us she might not survive being intubated.ButRoxiedefiedthe odds." Within 24 hours of that critical moment, the Starship National Air Ambulance—New Zealand’s only flyingPaediatric IntensiveCareUnit—wasinthe air,transportingRoxieandJess toAucklandforspecialistcare. Roxie was diagnosed with
OsteomyelitisofherC1andC2 vertebrae, a serious bone infection that led to a spinal cord injury. She spent six weeks at Starship Hospital, stabilizedina"papoose"brace, before finally returning home just a week before Christmas. While Roxie has a long road ahead—including potential future spinal fusion surgery— her progress has been nothing shortofmiraculous.
Now, Jess is giving back. By walking 85km this month, she aimstoraisevitalfundsforthe 24/7 service that connects seriously ill children with the
life-savingcaretheyneed.
"I’m giving it my all to help take my fundraising tally skyhigh," says Jess. "This is often the only way a seriously ill child can get to Starship. They count onoursupporttostay in theair."
To support Jess’s challenge andhelp save the lives of Kiwi kids, please donate to her fundraising page today. Every dollarhelpskeepthisessential service flying for all of Aotearoa.
Jess Petersen with Roxie, and Roxie’s siblings Dakota and Kayden.
20th March 2026
ST JOHN ST Youth Cadets. Wednesday. 5:30-6:30pm for 5-10 year olds. 6:30-8pm for Year7-13.4BraySt,Darfield.
DARFIELD MEN’S SHED CORRECTION
A story in last week’s Malvern News listed incorrect details for the Darfield Men’s Shed. The correct opening hours are 9am to 12 noon, Tuesday toThursday.
The Malvern Farmers Vet Club Charitable Trust (MFVCCT) would like to invite individuals, community groups and organisations to apply for grants from our organisation. The MFVCCT purpose is to advance the welfare of our rural community and the individuals connected to the community.
This involves distributing grants that meet the following criteria:
• The strengthening of charitable community and voluntary organisations involved in the relief of poverty
• The advancement of education
• The provision of financial support for specific community projects that advance charitable purposes
• The strengthening of charitable community and voluntary organisations
• The provision of financial and other support in anticipation of or in response to emergencies or adverse events
• The enhancement and retention of essential services that advance charitable purposes.
To apply for grants please visit: mfvc.org.nz or email mfvcinfo@gmail.com for more information. All applications to be received by 1st May 2026.
ARE AREARE ARE your accounts taking up valuable time you’d rather spend growing your business or with your family? Let the team at Sterling Accountants handle your accounting and tax compliance—right here on your doorstep. Call Ann-Maree at Malvern BusinessHub:0212150981.
SUN 22 MAR, 9:30am
St George’s, Kirwee malvernparish.wixsite.com/ malvern-parish
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CARPET/WINDOWS
CARPET CARPET CARPET/Window Cleaning. Thorough job, good price, quick drying. Highly recommended. Phone/ text Robert anytime on 0272999599.
MEAL MEAL MEAL MEAL worms. $25 per 1000, or part there of. Phone 0212 563739.
CHIMNEY CLEANING
CARRS CARRS CARRS CARRS Chimney Cleaning. Servicing the Selwyn district. $90 per chimney. Please ph Rodney on 03 324 2999 and leaveamessage.
CHIM CHIM Chim. We'll sweep your log-burners flue, check the firebricks, baffles, air-tubes and controls. We're experts oncoal-ranges,alsosweeping anysized open fire. Wequote and undertake repairs, flue extensions and install bird netting. Please phone us on 021939113.
10:30am every Sunday. Darfield Baptist Church 15 Greendale Rd, Darfield 9am, on the 2nd & 4th Sunday of every month. Glenroy Hall Windwhistle Rd, Glenroy
FIREWOOD
WILLOW WILLOW wood. 4 and 8 Meter loads. Dry. Good clean burning wood. Free delivery. Phone0277811492.
R K FIREWOOD Supplying wood for this Season!
Old Man Pine, Bluegum, Macrocarpa, Oregon. TRY THE HOT MIX! EBpos available. All top quality, clean wood. Ph Rini 027 451 7300
GARDENING
GENERAL GENERAL garden maintenance in Darfield area. Domestic hedge trimming, pruning, edging, lawns and water blasting.Kane0274676613. LAWN LAWN mowing and Garden services. Large sections a specialty with catcher or side discharge. Hedge trimming and other garden maintenance services also available. Regular or one-off jobs. Based in Darfield and servicing Selwyn. Contact Granton021619165.
LIFESTYLE & FARM SPECIALIST
II II will save you time. I offer a greatserviceonallthosejobs you've been meaning to get done. Fencing, gorse control (spray or cut and swab), other spraying, chainsaw work, mowing, gardening and general lifestyle block tasks. We'vegotwhat’sneeded,just give me a call. H Donaldson, 0277899532.
PAINTING/DECORATING
LEASE LAND WANTED
LEASE LEASE land wanted. Selwyn area suitable for cattle grazing. All sizes consider. Please phone Reg 027 567 0720.
ARE ARE youinneedofarefinance, firsthomeloan,buyinganew home,investmentpropertyor a property development? I deal with all the lenders, and I cangetyouthebestdealto suit you. I have30+ years of lending experience, and I am local. I can come to you. Alan Lover Loan Market 0272516644.
WANTED! WANTED! WANTED! Amalgamated Scrap Ltd. Buying cars & farm machinery. Specialising in farm clean-ups. Best prices Rod McQuoid - buyer. Please phoneeither0276950480or alternatively0800030712.
SHEEP SHEARING
Call Shaun Adams 021 204 1274
LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE block 2-4HA with small house. 3 Bedroom max. Sheds would be great. On quiet country road. In Kirwee, Weedons, Darfield and Charing Cross areas. Phone 0212581331.
TOOLS TOOLSTOOLS TOOLS wanted - mechanics, engineering, wood working etc. Garage, shed, barn clearances, deceased estates etc. Please phone Rob on 033425885.
Darfield based with over 44 years of local knowledge and experience
ROOF ROOFROOF
& house maintenance. All aspects covered including spouting, mortar, tiles, reroofing, roof painting, moss, mould & silicone sealing. General repairs. Ph 03 347 6702or0210302835.
Darfield based, working Canterbury wide. All Maintenance, Hot Water Cylinders, Log burners, Spouting, Rainwater Harvest, Wetbacks, Pumps, Alterations (new and existing)
An elderly couple was celebrating their sixtieth anniversary. The couple had married as childhood sweethearts and had moved back to their old neighbourhood after they retired.
Holding hands, they walked back to their old school. It was not locked, so they entered, and found the old desk they’d shared, where Jerry had carved ‘I love you, Sally’.
On their way back home, a bag of money fell out of an armoured car, practically landing at their feet. Sally quickly picked it up and, not sure what to do with it, they took it home.
There, she counted the money – fifty thousand dollars!
Jerry said, “We’ve got to give it back.” Sally said, “Finders keepers.” She put the money back in the bag and hid it in the attic.
The next day, two police officers were canvassing the neighbourhood looking for the money, and knocked on their door.
“Pardon me, did either of you find a bag that fell out of an armoured car yesterday?” Sally said, “No.”
Jerry said, “She’s lying. She hid it up in the attic.”
The agents turned to Jerry and began to question him.
One said: “Tell us the story from the beginning.”
Jerry said, “Well, when Sally and I were walking home from school yesterday ……” The first police officer turned to his partner, shook his head and said, “We're outta here!”
