

YOUNG ARTIST FOLLOWS HIS PASSION



Local Darfield lad Tamai Lloyd (16) loves art and is bringing his talent to market. With the support of his sister and caregiver, Hannah, he aims to sell his digitally created and freehand artworksonlinethroughhisnewwebsite,tamaisworld.com.
Tamai is autistic and has been drawing since he was a toddler Backthen,hedrewpowerlinesandnumberblocks,andwhilehe still likes to draw freehand, he also enjoys using an IPad, addingtexturesandshading/shadowstohiscreations.
He enjoys a variety of subjects and will happily take commissions, but says he particularly loves to draw FiveNightsatFreddy.“They’rescaryandcool.”
Tamai’s style is also sometimes influenced by The Amazing

DigitalCircus,MickeyMouseandWotWots.
He currently has three pieces on display at Darfield’sTeHuanuiArtGallery.
“Mysnowmanrepresentssnowin NewZealand,myhand-drawn one is inspired by analog horror, and diegetic paintings inspiretheother,”saysTamai.
Last year, Tamai took part in the IHC awards and sold a piece of hisartwork.“Thisyear,wecreatedmywebsite,andinAugust, IamgoingtohaveastallattheNextStepsExpoinChristchurch, where my family and I will be selling my work, and I will be takingrequestsfordrawings.”
Continuedonpage4... Continuedonpage4...



Artist Tamai Lloyd with two of the three pieces of art on display at Te Huanui Art Gallery.
The Workshop Page 11
The Magic of Christmas Returns Page 5



THE MALVERN BOOK FAIR IS BACK!
It’s time to clear the shelves, Malvern. The Malvern Anglican Parish is calling for donations for its popular Annual Book Fair. Whether you have conquered a 1,000-piece puzzleorfinishedathriller,the Parish would love your pre-lovedtreasures.
The Book Fair returns to its traditional mid-winter slot this year, held from Thursday, July 2toSaturday,July4.
A spokesperson for the Parish says,“Wehavestreamlinedthe event to three days but extended opening hours to give you more time to browse. Toensureafantastic selection, donations of books, puzzles, games, and DVDs are now being accepted at the church.
Please note we are unable to accept magazines, textbooks, orReader'sDigests. Donationscannowbedropped off at the foyer of Trinity Church, McLaughlins Road, Darfield. Every donation helps support the Parish's work withinthelocalcommunity. So, why not BOOK in a winter
sort-out? Hunt out those hiddengemsandbringthemto thechurch.Your"old"favourite might just become someone else'swinterhighlight. BOOK the dates, clear the clutter, and we will see you at TrinityChurch. Seeadvertformore details. details.

MEETING TO DISCUSS BANGOR
VILLAGE
FAST-TRACK PROPOSAL
A public meeting will be held at 7pm on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the Darfield Recreation Centre, to provide the community with an opportunity to hear directly from Hughes Developments regardingtheproposedBangor Villagedevelopment.
Themeetingisbeinghostedby Cr John Verry (Tāwera Malvern Ward),CrsTraceyMacLeodand Sam Wilshire (Councillors at


Large), Cr Denise Carrick (Springs Ward), and Malvern Community Board Chair Evan Frew.
The proposal relates to land at 160 Bangor Road (State Highway 77), Darfield, and seeks approval for a master-planned community comprising approximately 700 –800 allotments and residential units delivered in multiplestages.
Thedevelopmentproposalalso includes:
• allotments for future commercial,community,and possibleschoolactivities;
• reserves and open space networks;
• enhancement of an existing waterrace;and
• associated transport and three-waters infrastructure, including works within the SH77roadreserve.
Cr John Verry said it was important the community understood that the application is proceeding under Central Government’s Fast-track Approvals Act 2024 and not through the normal Selwyn District Council resourceconsentprocess.
“This is a significant proposal that could reshape Darfield for generations. Because it
is being considered under the Government’s Fast-track legislation, the normal level of local authority process and community input is more limited than would usually occur through Selwyn District Council.”
Cr Verry said the meeting is intended to provide residents with an opportunity to hear directly from the applicant and ask informed questions, so relevant concerns may be consideredintheapplication.
“The key issue for many residents is not growth versus no growth, but how growth is managed, paid for, sequenced, and integrated with Darfield’s existing town centre, infrastructure, schools, andhealthservices.”
Residents are encouraged to submit questions in advance to:john.verry@selwyn.govt.nz. SeeadvertinthePublic Noticesformore Noticesformore information. information. information. information.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT WANTED
The Darfield Toy Library is on the lookout for enthusiastic new committee members and volunteers to help continue supporting local families and children through a ordable, sustainableplay.
For many families in the community, the Toy Library is more than just a place to borrow toys; it’s a hub for connection, learning, and play.
Run by volunteers, the Toy Library gives families access to a wide range of quality toys, games, puzzles, and educational resources while promoting sustainability throughsharingandreusing.
Now, the committee is inviting more community members to getinvolved.
“Are you passionate about the environment, play, community, and supporting local families? We would absolutely love for you to join our Toy Library Committee,”saystheteam.
The committee is looking for people of all backgrounds and
skill levels. Whether you can help occasionally or would like to take on a more active role, every contribution makes a di erence. Volunteering is a great way to meet other local families, give back to the community, and help ensure the Toy Library continues to thriveforyearstocome.
One of the biggest benefits of joining the committee is the genuine friendships and connections you’ll build. The Toy Library committee prides itself on being a welcoming and supportive group, making it a fantastic way to connect withotherlocalfamilies.
If you’re new to town, joining the committee is an especially great opportunity to meet people and feel truly part of thecommunity.
The committee also makes meetings enjoyable and social, gathering once a month over wine, chocolate, and cheese platters while planning events, sharing ideas, and helping

shape the future of the ToyLibrary.
Committee members get a discounted library membership for just $40 per year. You can be part of the team that keeps the Toy Library running smoothlyandgrowingstronger forlocalfamilies.
No special experience is needed, just enthusiasm and a willingnesstogetinvolved.
The Toy Library encourages anyone interested to come along on Saturday between 9-11am, meet the team, and find out more about how they can help support this valuable communityresource.
Together, the Darfield Toy Library hopes to continue building a strong, connected, and sustainable community throughthepowerofplay.






Meet the team from the Darfield Toy Library, from left Tarryn, Carole, Kate, Sophie, Cathryn, Kirsty, Bex, and Kerri.
FROM YOUR PADDOCK TO THE WORLD


Kieran Heenan
kph@meareswilliams.co.nz
Anita Molloy-Roberts am@meareswilliams.co.nz
W: www.meareswilliams.co.nz T: (03) 374 2547


To the Editor:
In response to the Darfield Book Club article in Malvern News dated Friday, May 8, the same thing has occurred to the Malvern Writers Cafe (MWC). The Cafe was started four years ago to allow writers from across the wider area to get together, share stories, give advice and encourage storytellers to promote their work.
The Cafe came under the umbrella of the SDC libraries programmes and was allowed to use one room for two hours once a month at the Darfield library at no cost. This was for a period of ten months each year, as the cafe meets elsewhere in December and does not regroup until February the following year.
In February the cafe was advised that there was no room available for their meeting, when questioned as to why I was advised by the head librarian that we had no booking for Feb and no bookings for the rest of the year.
Subsequently I wrote to the council asking if they would follow up as we, the MWC, had a clear understanding from Darfield library staff that the room was ours to use once a month from 10am
to 12pm.
I received a reply from council advising that the staff member at the library who had authorised the room usage was no longer at the library and that they did not have the authority to allow room usage at no cost. (Four years after the fact!)
The Cafe was advised that they could use the room for their March/April meetings at no cost but that from May there would be a charge of $14.20 plus GST per hour up until June, when there would be new costs applied by council.
This is not about the money as there are sufficient funds held by the group to cover ongoing costs, this about the principal of the matter which is that the MWC was brought under the umbrella of council’s libraries’ programme, and that the council did not even have the good grace to advise the MWC that they were making changes to how rooms were allocated/costed.
Regards Brian Donnelly, Waddington, Co-founder of the Malvern Writers Cafe
YOUNG ARTIST FOLLOWS HIS PASSION
Hannah says Tamai finds his voice through the strokes of a pen and the glow of an iPad screen. “He embraces that he’s autistic and likes that he’s unique. In our world,

art isn't just a hobby; it's a portal into a unique perspective where every line tells a story of advocacy and talent. Autism is simply the lensthroughwhichhecaptures the beauty of the everyday, turningpersonalpassion intoa bridge that connects him with theworld.”
She adds that Tamai wants peopletounderstandthateven though his brain works di erentlyfrommost,heisstill like any other kid his age and has the same wants, feelings anddreams.
Tamai’s big dream is to have a studio where he can make videos teaching people how to drawanddrawfanrequests.
“Back when he attended his primary school, his previous
teacher,Brad, had Tamai teach the class an art lesson where he taught his class how to draw. The children engaged positively with him; they were amazedbyhisnaturaltalent.”
With the help of Hannah looking after the website and administration, Tamai is taking steps to realise his dream and to those young people who feel nervous about showing o their art, he says, “It’s okay, keep trying and surround yourself with positive andsupportivepeople.”
Look out for Tamai and Hannah at their Next Steps Expo art stall on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at the Parakiore Recreation Centre, 50 Saint Asaph Street, ChristchurchCentralCity.


THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS RETURNS
As the days get cooler, the magic of Christmas may feel a long way off, but the Zonta Club of Christchurch–Canterbury is bringing festive cheer to the season with its much-loved Winter Christmas Trail returning on Sunday, June 21,2026.
This special event will take visitors through a selection of beautifully styled town and country homes, each offering its own unique interpretation of Christmas. From charmingly traditional to refined and elegant, the displays will feature festive décor, floral arrangements, delicious Christmasbaking,andplentyof inspiration for creating your ownmemorablecelebrations.
The Trail includes a special highlight at Melton Estate Winery, featuring a Christmas Grotto and antique Christmas sleigh. Set amongst the vineyards, the winery provides a welcoming place to pause and relax during the day.
Melton Estate will be offering coffee, snacks, and lunch for purchase during the event.
Please note that food and beverages are not included in theTrailticket price,andthose wishing to enjoy lunch must book a table in advance at meltonestate.co.nz/book.
While the Winter Christmas Trail promises a delightful and inspiring day out, it also supports an important cause.
The event raises funds for One Mother to Another and Foster Hope, which provides vital support to families and children facing challenging
circumstances.
Morethananything,the Winter Christmas Trail celebrates the spirit of community, bringing people together to enjoy creativity, generosity, and the joyofthefestiveseason.
The event is most suitable for adults and children 12 years and over, who will require a ticketforentry.
To be part of this magical To be this magical day, early bird tickets are day, early bird tickets are day, early bird tickets are day, early bird tickets are available until May 22 at available until May 22 at available until 22 available until 22 zontachristchurch.org.nz/ zontachristchurch.org.nz/ zontachristchurch.org.nz/ zontachristchurch.org.nz/ product/winter product/winter product/winter--christmas christmas christmas christmas-trail trailtrail trail--2026/. 2026/. 2026/.








Zonta’s Heather Hardie welcomes people to her home during last year’s Winter Christmas Trail.







TEN YEARS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT, TOGETHER
A decade of Central Plains Water Ltd (CPWL) environmental funding has invested over $850,000 into local projects that are steadily building a healthier catchment from the mountains to thesea, ki uta ki tai. That’s tens of thousandsofindigenousplants in the ground, and ten years’ worth of supporting local individualsandcommunitiesto reconnect habitats, strengthen biodiversity and protect waterways.
CPWL is now welcoming applications for the 2026 Environmental Management Fund (EMF), from landowners, mana whenua, schools and community groups across SelwynTeWaihora.
CPWL Chief Executive Susan Goodfellow says: “The impact ofthisfundinggrowsyearafter year. Together, we are restoring and protecting our environmentforgenerationsto come. The passion and energy behind these projects are inspiring, with communities leading meaningful change acrossthecatchment.TheEMF reflects CPWL’s core purpose –sustainable water use, positive environmental outcomes, and strong Selwyn communities nowandinthefuture.”
Your project could be any of: Your any of:
• Waterqualityimprovements: Waterqualityimprovements: Waterqualityimprovements: Waterqualityimprovements: Riparianplanting/Wetland restoration
• Habitatrestoration: Habitatrestoration: Habitatrestoration: Habitatrestoration:Native planting/Ecologicalcorridors/ Habitatrestoration
• Culturalrestoration: Culturalrestoration: Culturalrestoration: Culturalrestoration: Restorationofrivers,wetlands andstreams/Projects supportingmahingakaivalues
• Communityengagement: Communityengagement: Schoolorcommunity restorationprojects/Handson environmentallearning
Visit the CPWL website to browse the inspirational stories and explore the Impact Map, which demonstrates the intensivelocalinvestment.
In 2025, EMF funding supported projects improving water quality and restoring biodiversity across the catchment. Riparian planting, wetlands and native corridors are stabilising waterways and reconnecting habitats. Boat Creek,supportedinpart bythe
EMF, is now a thriving ecosystem, winning both Environmental Action and Community Volunteer categories at the 2025 Selwyn Awards.
Put your project forward: Put
• Usethesimpleonlineform: cpwl.co.nz/environment/ environmental-management -fund
• Reachoutwithany questions: admin@cpwl.co.nz
• Applicationsclose:June30
Central Plains Water Ltd (CPWL) is the farmer-owned entity that operates on cooperative principles and managesthelargestirrigation scheme in the South Island, delivering sustainable irrigationto45,000hectaresof shareholder farmland across Canterbury.Visitcpwl.co.nz.








Photo curtesy of cpwl.co.nz.




NITRATE TOXICITY IN CATTLE
AND SHEEP: A SEASONAL RISK TO WATCH
By Farmfirst Darfield. By Farmfirst Darfield.
By Farmfirst Darfield.
By Farmfirst Darfield.
Nitrate toxicity is something we tend to see under certain growing conditions, and it’s well worth keeping front of mind when grazing high-risk crops.
So, what So, what So, what So, what’ ’’ ’s happening? s happening? s s Some plants can accumulate high levels of nitrate, particularly during periods of rapid growth or stress. When stock consume these plants, nitrates are converted to nitrite in the rumen. This interferes with the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, which can lead to serious illness, abortions, or evensuddendeath.
What should you look out What should you look out What look What look for? for? for? Clinicalsignscanvary,but commonly include di culty breathing, staggering or uncoordinated movement, and brownish discolouration of the gums or around the eyes. In somecases,animalsaresimply found dead. Pregnant animals thatsurvivemayabort.
When is the risk highest? When is the risk highest? When risk When risk
Certain feeds are more prone to nitrate accumulation; these include brassicas, turnips, newly sown ryegrass, and cereal crops like green oats. Risk increases with rapid plant growth (often after fertiliser application), drought conditions, and cloudy weather, when reduced photosynthesis allows nitrates to build up. Frosts can also increase risk, as plant stress can lead to a spike in nitrate levels.
It’s worth remembering that nitrate levels aren’t always uniform across a paddock; shady areas or parts that don’t get as much sunlight can hold higher levels than more exposed areas. Animals under stress, such as those pregnant, lactating, or immunocompromised, are also morevulnerable. How can you reduce the risk? you reduce risk? Management plays a big role. Avoid putting hungry animals straight onto high-risk crops
and always provide a goodquality supplement like silage. Introduce stock gradually, and where possible, shift them onto fresh breaks later in the morning or early afternoon, taking extra care on overcast or frosty days. Try to avoid hard grazing, as nitrate levels are often higher in the lower stemandbulb.
Testing is key. Testing is key. The only way to know nitrate levels for sure is to test. Bringing in a representative sample— including leaf, stem, and bulb—allows us to give you an answer and help guide safe grazingdecisions.
If you IfyouIfyou If you’ ’’ ’d like crops tested or d like crops tested or d like tested d like tested want to talk through your want to talk through your want talk through your want talk through your grazing plan, the team at grazing plan, the team at grazing plan, the team at grazing plan, the team at Farmfirst Darfield are here to Farmfirst Darfield are here to help. Give them a call on help. on 03 318 8611, They 03 318 8611, They 03 318 8611, They 03 318 8611, They’ ’’ ’re always re always re always re always happy to chat things through happy to chat things through happy to chat things through happy to chat things through and help you make safe, and help you make safe, and you make safe, and you make safe, practical decisions for your practical for stock. stock.
LITTLE MATTERS KEEP CHILDREN SAFE
Associate Minister of ACC Nicola Grigg recently launched Little Matters, a new initiative to help keep more children safefromsexualharm.
Little Matters has 10 everyday actions that the safe adults in our children and young people’s lives can take to protect our kids and teach them about healthyrelationships.
Inthepast year ACC supported over 40,000 New Zealanders who have experienced sexual abuse or assault. All adults have a part to play to prevent abusehappening.
Evidenceshowsthatrelyingon children to speak up about
sexual harm doesn’t prevent it from happening because kids can’t control the access or behaviourofo endingadults.
Little Matters includes having No Secrets, using Real Words for body parts and having regular check ins with kids instead one big serious talk about healthy behaviours
andrelationships.
Help us all make a di erence to keep more children safe from harm by sharing Little Matters with the other adults in your family, wider whanau and community. Visit facebook.com/ LittleMattersNZ


TALES FROM A LITTLE NEWSPAPER
By Ruth Warren, Malvern U3A. Malvern MalvernU3A. U3A. Malvern U3A.
Following the U3A Malvern AGM where Ian Warren was elected chairperson and the committee welcomed two new members, John Campbell and Wayne Lawson, our guest speaker, Michael de Hamil, whohasbeentheowner/editor of the Akaroa Mail for over forty years, spoke of some of the tales from his time as the editorofthepaper.TheAkaroa Mailturns150yearsoldinJuly and has always been independentlyowned.
Michael, when asked, gave us three ways hechooses articles. They must be ready on time. They must be new, exclusive and specifically local. He very rarely publishes press releases, as we all know how frustrating it is to read the samearticle in differentpublications.
Shortly after becoming the editor a ‘fearful’ delegation from the garden club, CWI and RSA came to him and told him how he should run the paper. They had all been writing articles like this: “27 members attendedtheJulymeeting.The guest speaker gave a very interesting and amusing talk and told a very funny story
about the Pope. He was thanked in the usual way by acclamation and was given a posy of flowers by Mrs Jones.
The next meeting is on Thursday 17th August, and everyone is asked to come along.”
Michael did not publish these. They were bland, there was nothing in them that could have been edited into a readableorinterestingstory.
Michael’s philosophy is he keeps his eyes and ears open and the simplest idea for example a hundredth birthday can be developed into a very interesting article by interviewing the birthday person. The newspaper should be editorial driven. Good editorial is enjoyed by more readers and therefore advertising has a greater audience. Community response is evident through always having many letters to the editorineverypublication.
The Akaroa Mail is only published in print: no website oronlineedition.Awebsite,he feels, kills the printed edition as folk have already read the news.AIisnotusedasbecause many mistakes can occur if relyingon it.This isan editor’s

worst nightmare, as a retraction may need to be published.
Wewerekeptamusedwiththe many humorous anecdotes from Michael’s experience as editoroftheAkaroaMail.
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! Come along and see for yourselves.
CONSULTATION OPENS ON SAFER SPEEDS FOR SELWYN
Selwyn District Council is inviting feedback from businesses on proposed speed limit reductions at 41 locations across the district to reflect changes to how we use these roads, requests from our community and to help make ourroadssaferforeveryone.
As Waikirikiri Selwyn grows, roadsthat were once rural now connect new homes, schools, and commercial areas. Some roads have higher use or the traffic using them has changed. Some communities have also requestedchangesintheirarea.
Updating speed limits in the right places helps keep everyonesafer.
The proposed changes are required to be consulted on under the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024,
whichsetsouthowspeedlimits are determined across New Zealand to improve safety, support economic activity, and keep people and goods moving efficiently. Each proposed speed change is backedbycost benefit analysis, weighing up the likely safety benefits,impactontraveltimes, andcoststoimplement.
Thesechangesaimto:
• Supportgrowthandchanges inlanduseassomeareas becomemoreurbanand havemoretraffic
• Improvesafetyforeveryone whousesourroads
• Keepourtransportnetwork runningefficiently
Feedback from the community will help shape the final proposal, which will then be considered for adoption by the
Council and submitted to NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi forfinalapproval.
The consultation will run for sixweeksandisopenfrom9am Monday11Mayto5pmMonday 22June2026.
Tosubmit,visit yoursay.selwyn.govt.nz/safer yoursay.selwyn.govt.nz/safer yoursay.selwyn.govt.nz/safer-speeds speeds speeds speeds--for forfor for--selwyn selwyn selwyn selwyn--2026. 2026. 2026.






Michael de Hamil guest speaker at U3A Malvern.


SELWYN COMMUNITY GROUP
SUPPORTS THE CHILD CANCER SOCIETY
By George Inwood, By George Inwood, George Inwood, George Inwood, Campathon Relay Campathon CampathonRelay Relay Committee. Committee.
Astrongsenseofcommunityis at the heart of a new local e ort to support families facing the challenges of childhoodcancer.
Each week in New Zealand, more than three families receive the life-changing news that their child has cancer. In these moments, organisations like the Child Cancer Foundationstep in. Their focus remains firmly on the whānau, recognising that every experience is unique, but that every family deserves compassion, care, and understanding.
In support of this mission, a dedicated group of local volunteers has formed the Campathon Committee, bringing together people from all walks of life with a shared
commitment to making a di erence. They are proud to introduce Campathon as their inaugural event, marking the beginning of what they hope will become a meaningful annualtradition.Thisyear,The Child Cancer Foundation was selected as the main benefactor.
Campathon will run as a 24hour event, from noon on November 21-22, featuring entertainment, food stalls, and a range of fundraising activities for all ages. More than just an event, it is an opportunity for the community to come together, show support, and stand alongside families a ected by childhood cancer. The Rolleston Lions Club is also supporting this event.
The committee is currently seeking sponsors and welcoming other organisations
to come on board and support this important initiative. Local businesses who would like to be involved are encouraged to contact the chair, George on 027 780 9699. Community members looking for a fun and meaningful event are invited to keep an eye out for further detailsonhowtoregister.
At its core, Campathon reflects the power of community, demonstrating that while childhoodcancer canturnlives upside down, collective compassion and action can help families feel supported everystepoftheway.





Photo courtesy of childcancer.org.nz.

LIVE MUSIC AT ROCKY LIVE MUSIC AT RANCH
Musicloversandmusicianscan head along to the Sunday Rocky Ranch Roundup in She eld this Sunday, May 17. This free public event is weather-dependent. Pack your rug, a picnic and/or your musical instruments and head to 22 Railway Terrace East, She eld from 1pm-4pm. Public Toilets are available at theShe eldDomain.
homewares and gifts.
Organisers will also outline common building issues in Kiwi homes and demonstrate easy fixes to save time and money. For those keen to test themselves, a trailer-reversing challenge is on o er. The day includes live demos, chainsaws, and giveaways of builder-made kennels, cat towers and outdoor seating, plus food and co ee. Doors openat10pmforregistration.
DON DONDON DON’ ’’ ’T TOSS IT, MAY REPAIR T TOSS T
CAFE CAFECAFE CAFE
Canterbury women are set to get hands-on with DIY at a new full-day learning event on Saturday, May 16 at the Templeton Community Centre. The event is designed to build practical skills in a supportive, judgement-free setting. Attendees will rotate through interactive stations covering powertool confidence, simple home repairs, and make-andtake projects such as small
Got a toaster that’s lost its spark,abikegatheringdust,or a t-shirt coming apart? Don’t bin it, bring it to the May Repair Café. Skilled volunteers will help you troubleshoot, repair and learn simple maintenance, keeping items out of landfill. Repairs o ered include household electrical/ electronics (appliances and computers), clothing and textiles, garden machinery
(small petrol/electric engines), general fixes, and scissor/knife sharpening(max1–2items;no garden tools). Register with a short item description at events.humanitix.com/repaircafe-may26, or drop in. Starts 10am; bring items by 1pm, collect by 2pm. ReDiscover Education Centre, Pines Resource Recovery Park, Burnham School Road. Saturday23 May2026,10am–1pm. Community-led; no liability.
MAIL PRICE HIKE MAIL PRICE HIKE MAIL PRICE MAIL PRICE
From July 1, 2026, NZ Post is increasingthecostofpostinga medium-sized letter by 70c to $3.60, while unaddressed bulk mail faces an approximate 20% increase, part of a wider price adjustment to handle fallingmailvolumesandrising operational costs. Large and oversizedletterswillalsoseea 70c rise to $4.90 and $6.20, respectively.
FROM THE WORKSHOP
By George Walls, By George Walls, Walls, Walls, Menzshed Darfield. Menzshed MenzshedDarfield. Darfield. Menzshed
We thought it was about time the Menzshed Darfield introduced ourselves to the community. We have our workshop at 26 McLaughlins Road, Darfield. We currently havearound20members.
Although the name infers it is a men’s organisation it is in fact open to all genders and agegroups.
We have a workshop full of oil machines including wood turning and metal lathes, band saws, and lots of other cool stuff with members that can teach newcomers how to
usethem. We also offer other services including furniture repair and just about anything else members of the community bringtoustobefixed. We recently took part in the renovation of Te Huanui Art Gallery and are looking for some new challenges. If you have a project and need some help, give us a shout. We are a self-funded community facility, so fundraising is a big priority for us. We will be taking part in the spring fair at the Trinity church in September, selling some of the handmade wooden toys and lots of



othergoodies. We don’t have any current sponsors, so if you are a local business and would like to help a community facility, pleasegetintouch. Come and join us on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9 until12.Oryoucanemailusat Neilroberts_8@hotmail.com. You can also find us on Facebook under Menzshed Darfield–Malvern.



GOLF RESULTS
WAIMAK GOLF WAIMAK GOLF GOLF GOLF
DARFIELD GUN CLUB
HORORATA GOLF HORORATA GOLF
By Bevan Brown, By Bevan Brown, By Bevan By Bevan Shoot Secretary. Shoot ShootSecretary. Secretary.
Lovely conditions greeted competitors on Hastie Trophy Dayon May4:bright sunshine, clear skies, and no wind. Despite that, good scores were surprisingly hard to come by among the 27 attendees. With fourdi erentdisciplinesonthe programme, consistency was essential, but for most, it was lacking.Onlyoneshoot-o was needed, in B Grade, to sort out theminorplacings.
Shooting wrapped up well before the afternoon shadows could play a part in proceedings, and everything was cleaned up with time to spare,thankstoallthehelpers on the day. Many thanks as well to Leigh-anne for organising the afternoon tea spread.



Our next shoot is Sunday, June7witha1pmstart. Allwelcome.
RESULTS RESULTS RESULTS RESULTS
Hastie Trophy Hastie HastieTrophy Trophy Hastie Trophy
H.O.A. H.O.A. H.O.A. H.O.A. - Luka Robinson (B gradeandJunior)with 70/75
A grade: A Agrade: grade: 1st - R Greatorex with 69/75, 2nd-NFosswithwith 67
3rd-DFolleywith66
B grade: B Bgrade: grade: B grade: 1st-LRobinsonwith70
2nd-AWatsonwith69
3rd-TStuartwith69
C grade: C Cgrade: grade: grade: 1st-HRobinsonwith62
2nd-CDonaldsonwith59
3rd-RDigbywith54



DarfieldLibrary 13May 7:30pm GreendaleResidentsMeeting GreendaleHall 16-17May Motorhome,CaravanandLeisureShow WolfbrookArena 16May 9am DarfieldToyLibraryOpen 1AHalkettStreet,Darfield
18May 1pm MalvernNews- EditorialDeadline-info@malvernnews.co.nz
18-24May SelwynParentingWeek
18May 7:30pm MalvernYouthTrustAMG TrinityChurch,Darfield
19May 9:30-12:30WeeklyMalvernCancerSupportClinic DarfieldLibrary
19May 10am MalvernNews- AdvertisingDeadline-info@malvernnews.co.nz

19May 7pm BangorVillageDevelopmentPublicMeeting DarfieldRecCentre
20May 9am WeeklyDarfieldNetworkersGroup-www.networkers.co.nz
20May 11:30-12:30WeeklyJusticeofthePeaceService DarfieldLibrary
20May WalkingNetball WestMeltonIndoorCourts
20May 10am RollestonNews- AdvertisingDeadline-info@malvernnews.co.nz
22May 10am MalvernNews- HomeHeatingAdvertisingDeadline-info@malvernnews.co.nz
24May 11:30amSheffieldPinkRibbonEvent SheffieldCommunityHall
27May WalkingNetball WestMeltonIndoorCourts
31May EntriesCloseforWinterFeedCompetition
1June 5pm WaterServiceFeedbackSurveyCloses
2-3June JudgingforWinterFeedCompetition
4June FarmTourofSelectedCropsfromWinterFeedCompetition
6June 9:30am KirweeBowlingClubAGM KirweeBowlingClubrooms
21June Zonta’sWinterChristmasTrail
2-4July MalvernAnnualBookFair TrintiyChurch,Darfield
15-22Sept CreativeKiwiTravel-RarotongaRoarTrip
Luka Robinson, winner of the Hastie Trophy.



ADVERTISING DEADLINE
Tuesday - 10am
ST JOHN ST JOHN Youth Cadets. Wednesday. 5:30-6:30pm for 5-10 year olds. 6:30-8pm for Year7-13.4BraySt,Darfield.








ACCOUNTANTS
ARE 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.

BUSINESS COACHING
GOOD GOOD staff… but poor performance? Running a business shouldn’t feel this hard. I help local business owners fix team and leadership problems without losing good workers. Kieron McGhie - Strategic People & Performance Coach Darfield. Confidential local coaching. Phone0212768311.
CHIMNEY CLEANING
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 anysizedopenfire.Wequote and undertake repairs, flue extensions and install bird netting. Please phone us on 021939113.
BUSINESS CARDS

CARPET/WINDOWS
CHURCH NOTICES
WILLOW WILLOW 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! E?pos available. All top quality, clean wood. Ph Rini 027 451 7300
HANDYMAN
LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL handyman-Part time. Any work considered, including farm work. Please phoneKerry0276222161.




CARPET CARPET CARPET CARPET/Window Cleaning. Thorough job, good price, quick drying. Highly recommended. Phone/ text Robert anytime on 027299 9599.
CHURCH NOTICES
Darfield Life Church

COUNSELING
RECEIVE RECEIVE valuable, professional support as you navigate life's challenges. Confidential service with qualified therapist, Lisa Mills. Initial free 1/2 hour consultation. O27 814 0785. www.goldentouch.co.nz

SUN 17th May, 9:30am Trinity Church, Darfield 5pm St Ambrose, Sheffield malvernparish.wixsite.com/ malvern-parish
SUNDAY 17 MAY 2026
At 10:30am 17 North Terrace, Darfield
DIGITAL DESIGN
SPOTTA SPOTTA SPOTTA Design. Darfield's digital design agency. Graphic design, website creation, branding and content creation. Phone: 021 025 20864. email: ruth@spottadesign.co.nz. Web:spottadesign.co.nz.


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.
GRAZING
CATTLE CATTLE CATTLE grazing available, Kale, Oats, Grass, Bailage and straw. Suitupto250animals for 12 weeks. We do all the work. Hororata area. Phone Michael 027 436 8308.
LEASE LAND WANTED
LEASE LEASE land wanted. Selwyn area suitable for cattle grazing. All sizes consider. Please phone Reg 027 567 0720.
MORTGAGE ADVISOR
ARE AREyouinneedofarefinance, firsthomeloan,buyinganew home,investmentpropertyor a property development? I deal with all the lenders, and Icangetyouthebestdealto suityou.Ihave30+yearsof lending experience, and I am local. I can come to you. Alan Lover Loan Market 0272516644. Ibringthebankstoyou.

UDI
UDI UDI UDI Painting & Decorating. For all painting & decorating services! Fully qualified. Interior & exterior painting & plastering. Wallpapering & roof painting. Quality Services. Free quotes. Please Ph.UdiAale0210742075. www.udipaintingndecorating.co.nz
WANTED
TOOLS TOOLS wanted - mechanics, engineering, wood working etc. Garage, shed, barn clearances, deceased estates etc. Please phone Rob on 033425885.


SCRAP METAL
WANTED! WANTED! WANTED! Amalgamated Scrap Ltd. Buying cars & farm machinery. Specialising in farm clean-ups. Best prices Rod McQuoid - buyer. Please phoneeither0276950480or alternatively0800030712.

EMERALD FARM EMERALD FARM FARM EMERALD FARM Native plants, locally sourced. Lots of varieties. Call and see if we have what you need. PhoneAnnie0273702067. PLANTS FOR SALE URBAN, LIFESTYLE, FARM GENERAL GENERAL property care. Services provided include: cleaning services (inside & out), gardening, fencing, maintenance, gorse/ weed control, spraying, hedges, chainsaw work, mowing. All tasks considered. Phone 027 789 9532.
RETIRED RETIRED couple seeking a farm cottage, house, long term rental. Minimum 2 bedrooms, preferably with a garage and room to park a caravan.Nopets.ContactTom 0278365706.
QUANTITY SURVEYOR
TENDERS, TENDERS, TENDERS, quotes, budgets, increased costs, variations, progress claims, final claims, disputeresolutions.CallSteve -0212644082.
Advanced Advanced Advanced Upholstery advancedupholsteryltd@xtra. co.nzorPhone033187378.

SECURE
Container Storage. PhonePhil0212234553.
TRADES
TRADES
FOR FOR FOR FOR gibboard fixing and stopping call Sam, Whitecliffs,0220961942.











Darfield based with over 44 years of local knowledge and experience

ROOF MAINTENANCE
ROOF ROOFROOF ROOF & house maintenance. All aspects covered including spouting, mortar, tiles, reroofing, roof painting, moss, mould & silicone sealing. General repairs. Ph 03 347 6702or0210302835.


TRADES










Heavy snow had buried my van in our driveway. My husband dug around the wheels, rocked the van back and forth, and finally pushed me free.
I was on the road when I heard an odd noise. I got on the phone and called home. “Thank goodness you answered,” I said when my husband picked up.
“There’s an alarming sound coming from under the van. For a moment I thought I was dragging you down the highway!”
“And you didn’t think to stop and check before ringing me?”
Four of us were playing a board games with cards that asked various questions, and players were to choose which one of them each question most applied to. One card asked, “Who looks most like a celebrity?” Everyone pointed at me and said, “Debbie.”
Surprised and, I admit, very flattered, I eagerly asked, “Which celebrity do I look like?” They replied: “John Lennon.”