WiththeGovernment orderinggreyhound racing to end by Saturday 1 August, the industry says uncertainty remains around what comes next. Concerns have been raised about the lack of a clear plan for compensation and for rehoming the hundreds of dogs expected to be a ected.
Legislation passed in Parliament recently has triggered a four-month countdown to the sport’s final race. More than a thousand people nationwide are expectedtofeeltheimpact.
Sarah Clausen, a West Melton trainer and Chief Executive of the Christchurch Greyhound Racing Club, explains that thoseintheindustryarefacingsignificant financialinstability.
Continuedonpage8... Continuedonpage8...
Malvern Anzac Car Rally Pages 10 & 11
Local family: breeder, owner, handler and trainers Matt Roberts and Sarah Clausen with their children Astle (left) and Joel with Claws in Zorro in front.
Health NZ Public Meeting Page 2
Supporting Local Page 13
HEALTH NZ COMMUNITY MEETING: COME AND HAVE YOUR SAY!!
Health New Zealand is inviting the Darfield community to a publicmeetingonThursday23 April, from 7–8pm at the Darfield High School Main Hall on MacLaughlin Road. The meeting o ers residents an important opportunity to hear updates and have their say on the future of local healthservices.
Thisfollowsanearlierhuiheld in March 2026, where Health NZ outlined its planning for health services, including local population trends and forecasts, and the current configurationofservicesacross theDarfieldandwider Malvern area. Feedback from that meeting is still being collated, but the session highlighted both the strengths of the current network and the challenges facing rural healthcaredelivery. Information presented shows a
broadmixofservicesavailable locally, including primary care, Hauora Māori services, rural and community-based care, mental health support, maternity and early years services, and care for older people. However, it also reinforced the need to modernise how services are delivered, with a growing focus on shifting care closer to home, increasing the use of digital and virtual health technologies, and redefining the role of hospitals within a more distributed, communitybasedsystem.
“As part of developing a rural healthframework,HealthNZis lookingat howserviceswillbe delivered into the future,” Mayor Gliddon said. “My priority is ensuring we have sustainable, locally delivered servicesthatmeettheneedsof ourruralcommunities.”
Selwyn District Councillor John Verry is encouraging residents to attend. “This is a critical topic for Darfield and Tāwera Malvern. It’s important people come along, hear what’s planned,andmostimportantly, havetheirsay.”
Mayor Gliddon met with Health NZ and Selwyn MP Nicola Grigg at the March hui to discuss rural health services across Selwyn, including Darfield and Leeston. She noted that there has been minimal long-term investment in facilities such as Darfield andLeeston,withmaintenance often limited to essential upkeep. She also highlighted ongoingchallengesinsecuring sustainable palliative care services in Darfield, with no provider yet willing to take up thecontract.
• Low back, neck, sciatic pain
• Work related injuries
• Post surgery treatment and rehabilitation
• All sports injuries and soft tissue strains
• Joint sprains and strains, such as tennis elbow, shoulder and knee problems.
• ACC Accredited - You don’t need a referral!
MESSAGE FROM TAWERA COMMUNITY TRUST
WE NEED YOUR HELP TO WE NEED YOUR HELP TO YOUR HELP TO YOUR HELP TO SECURE $160,000 FOR THE SECURE $160,000 FOR THE FOR THE FOR THE POOL.
The Selwyn District Council is currently consulting on its Draft AnnualPlan,andthisisa critical moment for our community.
Council had previously set aside $160,000 for the demolition of the She eld Memorial Pool. We’re asking that the funding be redirected to the Tāwera Community Trust so it can be used to refurbishthepoolinstead.
This is not new money; it is already budgeted. The money was ringfenced from Selwynwide funds. Chances are, if it isn’t used for the pool refurbishment then it won’t be put back into any other Malvernprojects.
What it will do is give us a genuine chance to restore a much loved community asset withover70yearsofhistory. Due to years of underinvestment,thepoolnow requires significant work. The goal of the Trust is a proper refurbishmentthatwillprovide a long-term solution, backed bya10-yearwarranty.
Securing this $160,000 is a vital first step. It will allow the Trust to move forward quickly and strengthen applications to external funders such as lotteries and community foundations, helping unlock
furtherinvestment.
One small action from you makes a real di erence Consultation is open now until 26 April. We need as many people as possible to make a submission in support of redirecting these funds. Make your submission at: selwyn.govt.nz/annualplan
DO YOU HAVE OLD POOL DO YOU HAVE OLD POOL DO DO PHOTOS? PHOTOS? PHOTOS? PHOTOS?
We’relookingtogatherphotos of the She eld Memorial Pool from the 1960s and 1970s. If you or your family have any old snapshots tucked away, we’d love to see them. These images help tell the story of the pool and celebrate its place in our community over the years. Photos can be scanned and emailed, or we canarrange to carefully copy themandreturntheoriginals. Please get in touch: admin@taweratrust.com
DESIGN A LOGO FOR THE DESIGN A LOGO FOR THE DESIGN A LOGO FOR THE DESIGN A LOGO FOR THE SHEFFIELD MEMORIAL POOL SHEFFIELD MEMORIAL POOL SHEFFIELD MEMORIAL POOL SHEFFIELD MEMORIAL POOL
We’re inviting our community tohelp shapethefutureofthe pool by designing a new logo. If you’re a designer, artist, or simply someone who enjoys being creative, we’d love to seeyourideas.Thisisachance to create something that representsthespiritof our pool and the community around it. To receive a copy of
ANZAC DAY AND R.S.A ANZAC DAY UPDATE
The Hororata-Malvern R.S.A is planning for April 25 around theMalvernarea.
The Poppy appeal is on Friday April 24. We are grateful to all who donate generously. All money goes to support returnedand servicepersons.
The transition from defence to civilian life is sometimes a challenge. Well done also to the support team in Sheffield and Springfield.
the design brief and to enter, email: admin@taweratrust.com The winning entry will receive a Season Family Pass (or equivalent cash value). Entries close:1May2026.
LETTERS AND THE LANDSCAPE OF OUR LIVES
By Ruth Warren, By Ruth Warren, By Ruth Warren, By Ruth Warren, Malvern U3A. Malvern MalvernU3A. U3A. Malvern U3A.
Kate Foster, greatgranddaughter ofSir John Hall, gave a particularly interesting talk at the April U3A Malvern meeting.
Kate’s experiences during and after the earthquakes in Canterbury, when lives were turned upside down and everything familiar had gone, triggered her understanding of the letters written between 1861 and 1876 by five Hall women.
Thewomen’sliveswereturned upside down. Everything they knew was no longer in view; their lives in New Zealand werevastlydi erentfromwhat they had left in England. How theysurvivedisdocumentedin theseletters.Withquotes from these well-educated women, Kate illustrated what their liveswerelike.
Mail was extremely important as it brought those at home nearer, but there was a considerable time lapse. Rose, John Hall’s wife, wrote of her wee son’s death — a very tryingtime—andherfamilyin England received the news six months later. This is a hard concept for us to grasp now,
with our instant connection to the world via phone or email. Agnes Hall’s daughter wrote of a treat being a quarter of an orange, ballgowns were described in detail, and one hundred and sixty years ago, worries and concerns were muchthesameastoday.These letters are unique, as most recorded early New Zealand letters focused on farming and business — such as records of orders for farming requirements — but the Hall women’s letters tell of daily life and how they remained extremely busy while caring for their fast-growing families.
Thelettersarecollatedintothe
book, Letters and the Landscape of Our Lives, published after the earthquakes.
Next month, the Editor of the Akaroa Mail, Michael de Hamel, will be talking about talesfromalittlenewspaper.
Malvern U3A meets monthly at the Darfield Bap st Church, normally on the second Friday of the month. It is an organisa on for seniors to come together for con nuous learning and informa on and is open to all who are no longer in full me work. While U3A stands for the University of the Third Age, it is not a university in the modern sense of the word; there are no qualifica ons required and no exams!
FUEL IS STILL CHEAPER THAN COFFEE!
By Ginny Nelson, Mortgage By Ginny and Insurance Advisor. and Insurance
Inaworld full of warningsand dire forecasts it is getting harder to find the positives in life. Theweathercan’tevenbe forecast without a warning! Rain happens, sunshine follows,endofstory. While some times can be more challenging than others, it is really important to get ahead of the 8 ball – ride the bike, check the bus routes, drop the gym membership & walk. You mayfindtheexerciserefreshes both mind and body, and
the bus a ords network opportunities if you keep your phoneo . Life is a journey, not a destination, and it is important to enjoy that journey and the challenges it presents. Nobody saiditwasgoingtobeeasybut if you shut out the doom and gloomoftheforecastsandlook around you at the amazing people doing amazing things, getinvolvedinyourcommunity and turn o the news, you will get through this period like all theothers. Fuelisstillcheaper thanaco eeperlitre!
Kate Foster
SEEDS OF CHANGE
CELEBRATING A SEASON OF SUSTAINABLE BEAUTY IN OUR COMMUNITY
Local flower lovers are in for a treat as Seeds of Change Floral Design prepares to wrap up its main growing season with a heartfelt gesture of gratitude.
Mike and Bronwyn AdamsHooper, the creative force behind the enterprise and inviting the community to their flower farm, in Darfield, on April 18, for a 'Thank You' Pick-Your-Own (PYO)flowersandmorningtea. SeedsofChangehascarvedout auniquereputationinthelocal area, known for combining refined, contemporary floristry with a deep-rooted commitment to the environment. By growing to organic standards and prioritising low-impact practices, Bronwyn proves that making eco-conscious choices never means compromising on sophisticated design. Her seasonally led arrangements havebecomea staple for those seeking beauty that treads lightlyontheearth.
The upcoming event is Bronwyn’s way of acknowledgingthesupportthat has fuelled the farm's success. "I am inviting anyone who has purchased a bunch, liked a Facebook post, or is simply cheering from the sidelines to bring a jar and pick a bunch of flowers to take home," she says.
The morning isn't just about the blooms; it is a chance for locals to connect over a cuppa and sample one of "Mike’s world-famous scones." It isalso an opportunity to chat with
Bronwyn about her passion for the land. Visitors can learn firsthandhowsoilhealthserves asthefoundationforsuccessful plantsandvibrantflowers.
While the season is winding down, the farm is still bursting with colour. The tunnel houses remain full of zinnias and lisianthus, and the dahlias are still pumping out spectacular blooms. Guests will also be able to tour newly developing areas of the farm andbrowsea selection of dried flowers, perfect for those looking to get a head start on Mother’sDaygifting.
"I really enjoy watching others get the same joy I get from wandering my little flower farm," Bronwyn reflects. "I would like to take this opportunity to thank the community for all their support overtheseason."
The event is weatherpermitting, and to ensure there are enough scones to go around, Bronwyn asks that those planning to attend "pop on over" to the ‘Seeds of Change’ Facebook page to RSVP.
Bronwyn is a believer in supporting local; she has donated an amazing bouquet of dried flowers for someone to go in the draw to win when shopping at Johnny Fresh Darfield prior
to Mother's Day.
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.
MATATU RUGBY SQUAD MATATU RUGBY
Congratulations to Lucy Jenkins and Hannah King on once again being selected for the 2026 Matatu (Te Wai Pounamu/South Island) Squad to play in the Super Rugby Aupiki competition. Both Lucy and Hannah have been involvedwithlocalschoolsand
rugby clubs and we wish them all the best for the season ahead. With Aupiki translating to mean “the ascent to the upper most realm,” Super Rugby Aupiki represents a crucialsteppingstonebetween the Farah Palmer Cup and the BlackFerns.
Super Rugby Aupiki now takes
place between June and August,withsixregularseason games and a Grand Final. The winner of Super Rugby Aupiki will take on the winner of Australia’s Super Rugby W in the Women’s Super Rugby Champions Final too, which will take place in Australia in 2026.
INVESTIGATE SOLAR ENERGY FOR A BRIGHTER, GREENER FUTURE
Farming is at the heart of New Zealand’s identity. It has shaped our communities and economy for generations; and to keep this legacy strong, farmersarecontinuallylooking for smarter, more e cient waystooperate.
Solar energy is one of the most e ective tools helping Kiwi farmers meet modern demands. It’s reliable, sustainable, and cost-e ective, giving farmers a practical way to boost productivity while reducing costs and environmental impact. Across dairy, sheep and beef, horticulture, and viticulture, solar can power everything from livestock facilities to electricfencing.
PX Solar’s associate companies currently operate 14 farms in the North Island and 10 farms in Canterbury. This deep connection to the land and rural economy drives our interest in solutions that enhancebothfarmproductivity
andnationalsustainability.
The irrigated farm area in Canterburyaccountsfor60%of New Zealand's total, with electricity being one of the largest and fastest-growing operational costs for these farmers.
To address this, PX Solar has successfully installed solar systems on two of our Canterbury farms, demonstratingclearbenefits:
You are invited to join us for a BBQ lunch to learn more on Wednesday April, 29 in Hororata,Canterbury. Please email or text to Please email text to register your interest: register your interest: sales@pxsolar.co.nz or sales@pxsolar.co.nz sales@pxsolar.co.nzor 027 644 9093. 027 644 9093. 027 027
For further info visit: For further info visit: For further info For further info www.pxsolar.co.nz www.pxsolar.co.nz www.pxsolar.co.nz www.pxsolar.co.nz
FOUNDATION STONE FOR TRINITY CHURCH LAID 50YEARS AGO
On Easter Sunday, the Christian world celebrated that Jesus is alive, but Darfield’s Trinity Church had an additional celebration – it was 50yearssincethelayingofthe foundation stone for the building.In1970,theAnglican, Methodist and Presbyterian churches in Darfield all had small, old, wooden churches which were no longer fit for purpose. Some far-sighted person made the innovative suggestion that perhaps the three could combine and build a significant building that each congregation could use and own jointly. After much discussionandprayer,thisidea was agreed to by the three congregations and the appropriate church courts, and so Trinity Church was conceived. A fundraising target of $200,000 was set as the figure needed to begin building. Most of this came from donations and annual pledges from parishioners, but there were also many fundraisingevents.
By April 1976 the target had been reached and on Easter Eve (the day between Good Friday and Easter Sunday) there was a service of thanksgiving at Darfield High School, after which everyone walked up to the site and the foundation stone was laid by three children, one representingeachparish. Children were chosen for this special task because children are always the future of the church.
Workbeganimmediatelyunder the site supervision of local builder Graham Taege and continued for the next three years with much input of voluntarylabouranddonations ofmaterials.
In November 1979 Trinity Church, the first purpose-built joint-use church in New Zealand, was opened. It had no carpet, furniture, car park or organ, but di erent denominations began using it, worshipping at di erent times on Sundays. Over the years, membersofthethreechurches have gradually grown together so that now they all worship together in one service every
Sunday.
IntheirplanforTrinityChurch, the committee envisaged it being a community resource with multiple uses, and since that day in 1979 it has been thevenueforrecitals,concerts, fashion parades, pre-school music and meetings of community organisations; it is truly living up to the dream of those daring planners of 50 yearsago.
In 1976 Christine Heasley (Anglican), James Reveley (Presbyterian) and Brent Early (Methodist) kneeling, were chosen to lay the foundation stone because children are always the future of the Church.
ECONOMIC RIPPLES WILL HIT SELWYN AS GREYHOUND RACING ENTERS FINAL MONTHS
AccordingtoSarah,racingisfar more than just a profession; it is a way of life that provides income, a daily routine, and a deep sense of community. The looming closure is expected to take a heavy toll on families and social networks, with the short timeframe adding immense stress to an alreadydi cultsituation.
Animal welfare remains the primary focus. While the industry successfully re-homes approximately 700 dogs annually through existing agencies, Sarah expressed concernthatthecurrentsystem may struggle to handle a sudden influx of retirees withoutaformalsupportplan.
When questioned about the future and potential job losses, Sarah noted that clarity is still missing.
Despite the rapid approach of the August closure, the ministerial advisory committee
has yet to make contact, leaving sta and trainers without a clear transition strategyor o cial guidanceon thefullscaleoftheimpact.
In Selwyn, the e ects are expected to extend beyond those directly involved.
Clausen points to a range of economic impacts, including thelossoftensofthousandsof dollars in annual dog registration revenue for the SelwynDistrictCouncil.
Localbusinessesarealsolikely to feel the strain. Suppliers in Rolleston and Darfield provide dog food and meat, while fuel stations and vehicle servicing businesses benefit from regular industry spending.
Wages earned within the sector are typically spent locally, supporting bakeries, supermarkets and othersmallbusinesses.
Clausen also says misinformation has shaped public perception of the
industry, with the level of care provided to greyhounds often overlooked. She says the dogs’ calm and social nature in retirement reflects the daily
handling exercise and attention they receive throughout their racing careers.
Overall, the closure is
expected to leave a noticeable economic gap across Selwyn, a ecting revenue, jobs and local businesses.
Darfield Resident Owner and Handler Peter Clausen (Sarah’s Father) with West Melton local Trainer Matt Roberts (Sarah’s partner) and Greyhounds, Smoking Ivan, Claws in Lulu, Quistis Bale (Mum of the three) and Claws in Zorro.
VINTAGE CARS ON DISPLAY ONCE AGAIN
An Anzac Day event now well established on the calendar for the Canterbury Branch of the Vintage Car Club (VCC) is the annual Anzac Day Run. Held in the Malvern area, it is a special VCC run visi ng several war memorials aroundthedistricttocommemoratethis special day of remembrance. It typically a7racts about 30 or 40 veteran, vintage and classic cars and motorcycles produced up tothe1970s,with aspecial emphasisonpre-WWIIvehicles.
The run starts from the Darfield Recrea onCentreonAnzacDay,andthe public are welcome to go there from 10:30am to see the cars on display, and then to see the start of the run at 11:30am. Immediately before the departure of the first car, there will be a short remembrance ceremony led by Darfield local Terry Hutchinson from the RSA,whichwillincludetheplayingofthe LastPost.
From the Recrea on Centre, the run heads out onto SH73 to drive past the Darfield war memorial near the Trinity Church, then con nues through Darfield along South Terrace. It then follows Mathias Street, North
Terrace, and then Kimberley Road to head north to the Old West Coast Road.
The first stop is the memorial in SheffieldonRailwayTerrace,wherethe first cars are expected about 12:00pm. Par cipants usually stop there for 10 minutes or so to leave poppies and pay their respects. From there, the run heads south along SH73 and the Inland Scenic Route 72, passing through Coalgateonthewaytothenext stopat theHororatamemorialonthecornerof Hororata Road and Downs Road, also a popularstoppingpoint.
The slower cars will then return to Coalgate and then head into Glentunnel, with the faster ones con nuing along Downs Road to the Glenroy memorial, and then also returning to Glentunnel along Route 72 to join the others for lunch at the Glentunnel Community Centre from 12:30pm. Being mindful of the current fuel crisis, par cipants also have the op on of going straight to Glentunnel from the start to keep the running distanceasshortaspossible.
A 1900 Wolseley is the oldest vehicle entered in the event, owned and driven by Colin Winter, pictured with his brother Bruce.
SELECTION OF SOME OF NEW ZEALAND’S OLDEST VEHICLES
Organiser Colin Hey commented, “AnzacDayissuchanimportant dayfor all New Zealanders, and to be able to commemorate it with family and with friends in the Vintage Car Club (VCC) is special.” The VCC is also apprecia ve of the support given by Auto Restora ons in Christchurch, who have provided rally plates to all entrants and assisted with promo ng the event, and to the SDC Venues and Events Team, who this year have coordinated all official Anzac Day events across the district. Other businesses which have assisted with this VCC event
include Birchfield Energy and ResourcesandtheMalvernNews. The run will give residents of the Malvern district a fantas c opportunity to view a selec on of some ofNewZealand’soldestvehiclesandtalk to their owners as well. Anyone is welcome to head along to the Darfield Recrea on Centre or the Glentunnel Community Centre on Anzac Day (there is no charge), or pop out to your gate to watch and wave as these old vehicles pass by. You will be sure to get a wave back!
BANGOR VILLAGE PROPOSAL
To the Editor:
Dear Editor,
In relation to your very good article in the Malvern News (April 10, 2026), I'd like to make a key comment related to the Bangor Fast Track application, that also relates to various other developments in the area.
In the case of the Bangor Fast Track Application the developer makes a point of suggesting that land for a school will be included in the application. We've seen similar suggestions about new Supermarkets and Old People's Homes. To ensure these are actually included, perhaps Nicola Grigg might talk to her cabinet colleagues about a law change so that, when a developer makes a claim that such important social inclusions are to go into a development, that they have to vest that land at no charge in the name of the community, with council as a "Special Reserve" (These could be developed as park lands initially), if they haven't actually signed up to build a school, supermarket, retirement centre or similar. In this manner, if they don't front up with the promised inclusion, if at some later stage council decide to utilise that land for its intended purpose, the land can be leased out to the end user, with the income from the lease coming back to the community to offset council rates increases.
Kindregards, AlanPeacock,Darfield
Regarding the Bangor Village proposal, we already have the lack of bus services and non-availability of doctors. Can Council confirm that the additional infrastructure costs resulting from the project, including such things as extending Pines treatment plant to cater for the increased demand, will be fully covered by development contributions and not again imposed on the existing ratepayers to meet the shortfall?
Regards, HarveyPolglase,Darfield
Response from Robert Love Selwyn District Council Executive Director Building, Planning and Regulatory.
We have raised concerns with the governmentaboutboththeprocessandthe potentialimpactsofadevelopmentatthis scale.Thatincludestheneedtoensurethe requiredinfrastructurefromwastewaterand transportthroughtocommunityservices,is provided and that those costs are not passedontoexistingratepayers.Wealso lookforwardtoseeingthedetailofthe proposedDevelopmentLevies legislation. Theintentisclear,thatgrowthshouldpay forgrowth,butthedetailwilldetermine whether councils have the tools to ensure existingratepayersdon’tcarrythatburden.
FUTURE OF COMMUNITY HALLS
To the Editor
I read with interest the recent article on the future of community halls and the Selwyn District Council’s intentions around these important local assets.
Like many in our community, I support ensuring our facilities are well used, financially sustainable, and continue to meet local needs. However, before any decisions are made, it is important that the information being relied on is both accurate and complete.
This raises a number of questions I believe the wider community should consider; these are:
• Can Council confirm that the financial data being used to assess halls is fully accurate and correctly allocated to each individual facility?
• How are costs and revenues being attributed, particularly where sites include multiple buildings or shared services?
• Does the income reported include only hall hire, or also targeted rates contributions from ratepayers?
• How is utilisation being measured, and is the method appropriate for small rural
halls compared to larger multi-use facilities?
• What options will genuinely be presented to communities, and will there be flexibility beyond transfer to a single type of entity?
• How will increasing usage trends in some halls be factored into future decisionmaking?
Community halls are more than buildings — they are part of the social fabric of rural areas. Many ratepayers also contribute directly through targeted rates, so transparency around both costs and income is essential.
Before consultation begins, it would be reassuring for the community to know that the data informing these decisions has been carefully reviewed and reflects the true position of each hall.
I look forward to Council’s response and their constructive engagement with the community on this important issue.
Brian Donnelly, Waddington Resident
PRESERVING THE PAST, CRAFTING THE FUTURE: SUPPORTING LOCAL WITH BEN GROTERS
In an era of mass-produced goods, Darfield local Ben Groters is proving there is no substitute for the touch of a craftsman’shand.Workingwith wood, alloys, and metals, Ben turns"rescued"materialsintoa diverse range of personalised art and functional pieces for the home and workshop. A Kiwi from a rural background in Hororata, Ben’s creative journey began in earnest during the covid lockdowns, converting life experiences into tangible art. Today, his workshop is a testament to sustainability, utilising mostly recycled native Rimu. He chooses Rimu for its stability and classic history, giving old timberanewleaseonlife.
Operating as a full-time oneman band, Ben’s business, Groters co, is the definition of "made to order." His repertoire is vast, spanning from animal sculptures, belt buckles, and
hip flasks to practical items like bottle openers, wallets, and platters. He also creates sentimental treasures such as wedding or 21st birthday gifts, wooden toys, clocks, and night lights. From bespoke musical items to unique recycled Rimu photographic prints, his work covers almost anything a customer can imagine. One of his latest specialities involves transforming oak barrel tops into stunning personalised centrepieces for weddings and othermilestones.
At the heart of his business is acommitmenttothelocalway of doing business — where a chat comes first. Because his workisbespoke,Benprefersto start every project with a conversation to ensure the final product matches the customer’s vision perfectly.
This personal touch is why the Hororātā Highland Games committee commissioned Ben
to hand-craft this year’s trophies. Using local wood and symbols designed by past Chieftain John De Vries, the trophies perfectly exemplify the community supporting its own.
When you choose a maker like Ben, you are investing in a piece of craftsmanship that is worth the wait, moving away from"o -the-shelf"productsin favour of quality that lasts. While items may appear out of stock online, it simply means the workshop is busy creating. If you want to browse at some of his creations, have a deadline or a fresh idea, visit his website: groters.co, where you will also find a link to his facebookpage.
Kowai
Kirwee
Arthur’s Pass 7am Dawn service at the flagpole on School Terrace, Arthur’s Pass Followed by breakfast supplied by AP FENZ at the Community Centre
Ben Groters with a Dall sheep with Rimu horns he made for an Alaska based kiwi friend.
THE RANGIORA TO SHEFFIELD RAILWAY BRANCH LINE
By Matt Williams. By Matt Williams. Matt Matt
There was a time when road tra c had to share the Waimakariri Gorge bridge with railtra c.
Itwasdeemedimportantthata railway be built to Oxford to access timber for the development of Christchurch.
The narrow (NZ standard) gaugetrackwascommencedin 1873,reachingOxford West by 1875. From Bennett Junction, the Eyreton branch was completedin1878.Intheearly 1880s, despite an economic depression, the line was extended to She eld via the Waimakariri Gorge bridge, whichopenedin1884.
At this time, She eld was known as Malvern. The 50km tracksawtwomixedgoodsand passenger trains daily. Over the years, tra c declined, with the line between Oxford and She eld closing in 1930. The service from Oxford to Rangiora was fully withdrawn in1958.
Once the timber had largely been milled out, the transport
of farm produce became the main use of the line, until motor lorries took over followingtherelaxationofroad distancerestrictions.
Today, cows use the cutting on the south side of the gorge to access their milking shed. The sweeping bend of Curve Road from Waimakariri Gorge Road follows the path the railway took into She eld. The embankment and concrete culverts remain. Two goods sheds, one at Springbank and oneatFernside,havesurvived.
Pictured are two NZR tank F class engines, F13 Peveril and F163 Ivanhoe, with an
excursion of day picnickers at the Gorge, circa 1885. These locomotives were imported from Scotland in the mid1870s and remain in preservation, having received major refits in 1963 to celebrate 100 years of rail in Canterbury.
Peveril can be seen today at Ferrymead Heritage Park, and Ivanhoe is at the Feilding and DistrictsSteamRailSociety. Fonterra’s tankers in recent times have no doubt moved moretonnageacrosstheGorge bridge than the railway did in its45yearsofoperation.
TRANZALPINE PASSENGERS TRANSFER TO BUSES FOLLOWING WORK TRAIN DERAILMENT
TranzAlpine passengers were transferred by bus from Springfield on Sunday night after a minor derailment involving a ballast wagon on a work train occurred east of Springfield earlier in the day. KiwiRail staff quickly arranged alternative transport, allowing TranzAlpine passengers to arrive in Christchurch close to the originally scheduled time. The train remained at Springfield overnight, with Monday’s passengers travelling by bus to Springfield where they enjoyed taking photos and selfies on the platform. Two locomotives were bought from Otira to take the train to Greymouth. The derailed ballast wagon was put back on the tracks using a crane, and the ballast was cleared from the main line on Monday prior to return of the TranzAlpine through to Christchurch that evening.
Photograph credit John Wilson, Historical
We know that the conflict in the Middle East is adding pressure at the pump for hardworking New Zealanders and I’ve heard feedback from many here in Selwyn about how this is impacting you locally.
To try and ease the pressure, we are delivering temporary, timely support that is targeted to low-to-middle income working families with children, through a boost to the in-work taxcredit(IWTC).
This support is temporary. It willlastuptooneyear,oruntil fuel prices ease, to help with household costs without pushing inflation higher or addingtogovernmentdebt. We cannot control global oil
markets or international conflicts.Andwealsocan’trisk repeating Covid mistakes, where too much spending more than doubled debt and pushed inflation and mortgage ratestoohigh.
In contrast, the IWTC is one of the few key government support payments that is not automatically linked to inflation.
Thisisa measuredresponse to help the squeezed middle that is careful not to increase inflationorgovernmentdebt.
If you are unsure or think you may be eligible, you can contact Inland Revenue with MyIR or by calling 0800 227 773.
We are not considering cutting
the fuel excise as these cuts are poorly targeted, benefit high-income households the most, and risk encouraging higher fuel use if supply becameconstrained.
For our arable farmers in Selwyn, MPI, the North CanterburyRuralSupportTrust and FAR are hosting an Arable Night Out with guest speaker Willie Apiata VC at the Dunsandel RFC on Tuesday 28th of April 5:30pm. Register onlineonFAR’swebsite.
As always, my o ce is open Monday to Friday, from 10am to 4pm. Feel free to drop by anytime if you need assistance orhaveanyquestions.
DARFIELD GUN CLUB
By Bevan Brown. By Bevan Brown. Bevan Brown. Bevan Brown.
As is usual for April, there was a small turnout for this month’s shoot, with 19 shootersattending.
Conditions were not at their best, characterised by dull skiesandoccasionalpatchesof drizzle.Thisledtoamixedbag of results, although the fewer squads allowed for an early finishformostparticipants.
As this was the second half of last month’s President’s Trophy, there was plenty of pressure to perform. The handicap system worked well once again, resulting in a B-grader shooting o against a C-grader for theoveralltrophy. Given the weather conditions, a short three-target shootout was all that was required to
decide the winner. Well done to the C-grader, who will soon bemovinguptheranks.
Many thanks to those who scored and refereed matches, helped with the clean-up, andassistedwiththeafternoon tea.
Sharp Cup Sharp SharpCup Cup Sharp Cup (Juniors) EthanGreenwood.
Upcoming shoots Upcoming Upcomingshoots shoots
• Saturday25thApril 1pm‘DuckshootersDay.’
• Sunday3rdMay‘Hastie TrophyDay’12:30pmstart.
Ross Bryant Presidents Trophy winner. Ethan Greenwood Sharp Cup winner.
GIVE INDOOR BOWLS A GO THIS SEASON
Darfield and Glentunnel Indoor Bowls Clubs are inviting new members of all ages to come along, have a go, and enjoy one of New Zealand’s most accessibleandsocialsports.
Indoorbowlsisplayedonmats usingspeciallyweightedbowls aimed at a small white “jack”. With over 400 clubs nationwide, it’s a game that welcomes everyone, whether you’re young, older, or somewhere in between it’s easy to pick up, low-impact, and a great way to meet peopleinyourcommunity.
The season runs from March
through to October, and getting started couldn’t be simpler. All you need are flatsoled shoes and a willingness to learn. Clubs provide the equipment, and free coaching is available, so no experience isnecessary.
The aim of the game is straightforward: place your bowls closer to the jack than your opponent’s nearest bowl. You can play singles or as part of a team in pairs, triples, or fours, making it a flexible and socialsport.
Indoor bowls has a proud history in New Zealand, dating
backto1908 whenAucklander John Jenkins introduced the game after seeing it played in London. It quickly grew in popularity, especially during and after the Second World War, when it became a favouritepastimefor peopleof all ages and backgrounds. While participation has declined in recent years, local clubs are keen to see the sport thriveagain. Now’s the perfect time to give itago,havesomefun,andget involved.
END OF SEASON FOR KIRWEE BOWLS
By Marian By ByMarian Marian By Marian Galloway.
It is unusual for the Kirwee bowling green to be used so late in autumn, but with the club struggling to complete competitions due to weather disruptions and the timing of Easter, it was not until Saturday, April 11 that the closing day function was held. It was as if the green had saved its best for last; it could nothaveplayedbetter!
In keeping with tradition, the men’s champions battled the women’s champions for the glory of winning the Harrison Salver (for the winner of the Rinks) and the Emma Jenkins Tray(foroverallwinnersonthe day). These competitions are always played on Closing Day. As both trophies had gone to the women last year, interest was high. In the end, it was a split result, with the women winning the Rinks Salver and the men taking the overall prize.
Club President Ray Grigg reflected on thepast season at thedinner held intheevening. The weather had provided its problems, but Kirwee was in good heart, with membership steady and several new playersperformingwell. At the
prizegiving following the meal, the club’s Patron, Betty Henderson, handed out the trophies.
The club hosted Bowls Darfield for the entire season, as Darfield’s green was being renewed and was not ready to play on in time. This proved a challenge for the greenkeeper, andRayGrigg,whoputinmany extra hours keeping the green uptostandard.
The next step for the club is to hold its Annual General Meeting, where it will decide on the management committee forthecomingyear.
Championship Winners ChampionshipWinners Winners Women
Bring your partner, friends, or workmates and join one of these Clubs, you might just discover a new favourite pastime.
HORORATA GOLF GOLF
WAIMAK GOLF WAIMAK GOLF WAIMAK WAIMAK
Galloway. Galloway. Galloway.
Open Singles winners, Rosie Croft and Ken May, Both with Patron Betty Henderson.
GOLF RESULTS
ST JOHN ST JOHN ST JOHN ST JOHN Youth Cadets. Wednesday. 5:30-6:30pm for 5-10 year olds. 6:30-8pm for Year7-13.4BraySt,Darfield.
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TRADES
I was in The Warehouse today and ended up behind a grandfather with his very loud, very impatient grandson.
The kid was demanding lollies, cookies, you name it, and making quite the scene.
Through it all, the granddad stayed calm, softly saying,
“Easy now, Ethan… we’ll be done soon, buddy.”
A few minutes later, another meltdown…
“Hang in there, Ethan… just a little longer,” he said, still cool as ever.
By the checkout, the kid was tossing things out of the cart, but the granddad didn’t raise his voice once.
“Alright, Ethan… relax now, we’re almost out of here,” he said gently.
I was honestly impressed, so I followed them out to the parking lot and said,
“Sir, I just wanted to say you handled that amazingly Staying that calm with little Ethan… that takes patience. He’s lucky to have you.”
The granddad smiled and said,
“Thanks… but I’m Ethan. My grandson’s name is Tyler.”
