ROLLESTON TEACHER INSPIRED BY WEEK WITH DEFENCE FORCE
Club Reports Pages 10
Te Rōhutu Whio teacher and team leader Ryan Pearce says a hands-on professional learning programme with New Zealand’smilitaryhasprovided fresh classroom ideas and changed his understanding of Defencecareers.
Ryan was one of a group of educators from across the country selected to attend the School to Skies and School to Seas programme, hosted by the Royal New Zealand Air Force and the Royal New ZealandNavyinAuckland.
He first learned about the programme through social media and was attracted by the chance to try something new. But the experience soon tookondeepermeaning.
“In Rolleston, we have a number of whānau connected with Burnham and other defence forces,” Ryan says. His son is also fascinated by planes, which sparked his interest.
One of the biggest takeaways was the diversity of roles involved in keeping aircraft and shipsoperating.
“They have a massive range of roles, from engineers right through to technicians and all kinds of people behind the scenes,”hesays.
Some of the most memorable experiences included helping assemble parts of a demonstration aircraft, flying aboard a Hercules transport aircraftoverAucklandwiththe rear cargo door open, and takingpartinNavysimulations focused on fire and flood
control. Teachers also toured the HMNZS Aotearoa, where they were able to sit at the helm.
The week also challenged common stereotypes about militarylife.
Ryan was struck by how supportive and people-focused the Defence Force is; training was disciplined but also encouraging with a strong emphasis on values, leadership,andculture.
“They supported their people and genuinely cared about them.”
Back in the classroom, Ryan is already sharing his stories and using STEM resources collectedduringthevisit.
Continuedonpage Continuedonpage Continuedonpage7… 7…7…
Te Rōhutu Whio teacher and team leader Ryan Pearce.
COUNTRY MUSIC MAGIC RETURNS TO THE HEARTLAND
Dust o your boots and get ready to kick up some dust, Country in the Country is o cially back for 2026! After a successful debut, local entrepreneurs Craig Bradford of the Crate and Barrel and Andre Goldsmith of Hang Up Entertainment, in partnership with the Ellesmere A&P Trust, are thrilled to bring this premier musical event back to ourcommunity. This year’s lineup is nothing short of spectacular. Headlining the day is the internationally acclaimed KayleeBell,arrivinginLeeston freshfromhermassive sell-out tour across New Zealand in 2025. Joining her is a stellar cast of talent, including local favourites Zayde Blair and Ste anyBeck.
Andre Goldsmith says, “We are also delighted to welcome back The Eastern and the Dunedin-based Eastern Sisterhood, who enjoyed the Ellesmere hospitality so much last year they couldn't wait to return.
We’ve listened closely to your feedback from our inaugural event.Tomakethemostofthe autumn sun and avoid the biting winds of last year, we have moved the date earlier in the month to Saturday, March 14. Shifting from Sunday to Saturday also allows everyone to enjoy the festivities to the fullest without the Monday morningrush.” Country in the Country
remains a true family-oriented day. With free entry for everyone aged 17 and under,it’san a ordable way to bring the whole tribe. While the kids enjoy face painting and rides, adults can sample local food vendors and the onsite bar. For those feeling energetic, line dancing will be infullswingbetweensets. Gates open at 11am, with the
music wrapping up at 5:45pm. Parking is located on the northern side of the arena. For those travelling from further afield,overnightself-contained campingisavailable.
“We’ll play rain or shine, so grab your tickets now atleestonv.flicket.co.nz or over the counter at the Crate and Barrel.
Seeyouatthearena!”
COMMUTERS BE QUICK, HAVE YOUR SAY
Selwyn commuters are being encouragedtosharefeedbackon new direct bus services introducedinSeptemberthrough a collaboration between Metro andBentleyCoachlines.
The six-month trial added two routes, 84 Rolleston Direct West and 85 Rolleston Direct East, delivering 21 additional direct daily servicesbetween Rolleston andthecity.
Canterbury Regional Council
Public Transport Core Service
Lead Councillor Joe Davies says, “It follows strong demand for extracapacity,soit’sgreattosee how this trial has responded. Patronage has been tracking well,with31,000passengertrips recordedonRoute84andRoute 85 over the past four months. Thisis30%morepassengertrips thanwhatwasrecordedoverthe sametimelastyear”.
Bentley Coachlines operates
privatelyandisnotsubsidisedor part of the Metro network, meaning it has its own fare and paymentsystem.
As the trial nears its end, Environment Canterbury is seekingpublicfeedback.
“As we near the end of the trial period, we want to know if you’ve used the service, what improvements would make you use the service, or use it more often,andwhatyourexperiences havebeen.
“Likewithanytrial,itsimportant people have their say. Your feedbackandsupportofthistrial will help determine and shape whatitlookslikeinfuture."
Feedback can be provided Feedback can be provided provided provided via a short survey at via a at ecan.govt.nz/84 ecan.govt.nz/84 ecan.govt.nz/84--85survey 85survey before 9am, before before9am, 9am, Thursday, March 5, 2026. Thursday, March 5, 2026. Thursday, March Thursday, March
BIG DAY OUT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
The Leeston Fete is back on Saturday, March 21 from 10am – 3pm, and it’s shaping up to be one of the biggest and best family days on the Ellesmere calendar. Proudly run by the Ellesmere Promotions Trust (EPT), the Fete is all about creating a fun, welcoming day where the whole community can come together – and best of all, the children’s activities arecompletelyfree.
Families can look forward to an incredible lineup of kids’ entertainment, including bouncy castles, the everpopular T-Rex Double Drop, archery,teacupsride,minigolf, facepainting, pony rides, and a petting zoo. These activities are a huge drawcard for the event and ensure children of all ages can enjoy a full day of fun without parents having to reachintotheirpockets.
Alongside the children’s zone, theFetewillfeatureafantastic mix of stalls, entertainment, food vendors, and activities for all ages. Whether you’re coming to browse, eat, relax, or simply soak up the
atmosphere, there’s something foreveryone.
Be sure to pop into the EPT headquarters, located in front of Anderson Square. This is your go-to spot to learn more about what EPT does, the eventstheyrunthroughoutthe year, and how you can get involved in supporting the community.
A small, dedicated committee runs EPT, and they couldn’t do thiswithout volunteer support.
Volunteers on the day are always welcome, whether you can help for an hour or longer; everybitmakesadi erence.
There are still a few vendor sites available, but they are filling fast. If you’re keen to be part of this much-loved event, scantheQRcodeinthisadvert toregister–bequick.
For updates, announcements, and event details, follow the Leeston Fete Facebook page or visit our website at eptrust.nz/ept.
We can’t wait to see you there for a fun-filled day the whole familywilllove.
GIVING GARDEN FESTIVAL ATTRACTS CROWDS
The inaugural Giving Garden Festival at Broadfield Gardens was held on Sunday, February 15, with breezy conditions and welcome spells of sunshine.
Whilethefinalfinancialtally is still to be confirmed, the event has already been deemed a resounding success. Feedback on the organisation and, of course, the stunning location has been overwhelmingly positive.
Event organiser and SCCC manager Yvonne Lamond says, “The Giving Garden Festival was an idea first mooted by John, one of our volunteers, during a visit to the gardens early last year. With the right support, he believed it could be brought to life, and after a
year of planning, that vision became reality. On the day, it was estimated that between 3,500 and 4,000 people passed through the gates, including several local councillors. For those visiting Broadfield Gardens for the first time, the beauty of the gardens was nothing short of breathtaking.”
The festival o ered something for everyone, with bouncy castles, a wide range of vendors, and a standout display of classic cars. The Rolleston Brass Band performed brilliantly, and it was a joy to see crowds gathered, toe-tapping and enjoying the music throughout theday.
A huge shout-out must go to the event sponsors, David Hobbs, owner and creator of Broadfield Gardens; Intelligro; Selwyn District Council; Bitcoin; and Pub Charity. Without their generous support, this event would not havebeenpossible.
Intelligro ran a wonderful hands-on activity, teaching children how to sow seeds. Many young attendees left proudly carrying their future plants, a fantastic skilltolearn atsuchayoungage.Kelly,you wereamazing!
Selwyn Central Community Care aimed to raise awareness of the services they provide and to fundraise for the upgrade of their community van. Check out their website, selwyncc.co.nz – they are here tohelpiftheycan.
“Thank you to all who came along and supported our event – we hope to be back next year!”saysYvonne.
SAVE BROADFIELD SAVE BROADFIELD GARDEN GARDEN GARDEN GARDEN
Selwyn garden clubs came together at the Giving Garden Festival to raise awareness
and highlight Broadfield Garden’s potential as a valuable community asset in theSelwyndistrict.
Selwyn deserves a botanical garden and park, and Broadfield Garden presents a rare, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure an irreplaceable, ready-to-go asset for public benefit. Created over more than 30 years by internationally recognised horticulturalist David Hobbs, the garden is at risk of being lost, with the property being for sale.
Purchasing Broadfield Garden would directly support Selwyn District Council’s goal of enhancing social, environmental, cultural and economic well-being by providing residents with a peaceful natural space, protecting an important collection of New Zealand indigenousplants,preservinga siteofrecognisedinternational significance, and generating economic benefits through local and international visitors who support businesses across the Selwyn District. The cost of purchasing Broadfield Garden would be significantly less than creating a botanical garden from scratch in the proposed new district park and a new garden wouldtakeyearstoestablish. Broadfield Garden isn’t just a garden to look at; it’s a landscape to experience. The careful design of sheltering hedges,reflectivewater,native species, and formal touches with a strong New Zealand identity creates a space for pause, reflection, and connectionwithnature.
If you want to preserve this If you want to preserve this you want to preserve this you want to preserve this garden in our district for garden in generations to come, email come, email Mayor Lydia Gliddon and all Mayor Lydia Gliddon and all and and the Councillors and let them the Councillors and let them and let them and let them know your thoughts on this. know your thoughts on this. know your thoughts on this. know your thoughts on this.
GIVING GARDEN FESTIVAL ATTRACTS CROWDS
ROLLESTON RESIDENTS GARDEN COMPETITION IS BACK
Get your Get garden planner garden out, out,out, out, it itit it’ ’’ ’s ss s competition competition competition competition time time time time again.
The bi-annual Rolleston Residents Garden competition is on again this year. It was last held in 2024 and was well supported by gardeners and local sponsors. The competition is open to urban gardens and there is no entry fee.
The competition is an incentive for homeowners to take pride in being a resident of Rolleston and to have the chance of winning some great prizes.Thereisevenacategory for new gardens along with moreestablishedgardens. The judging will take place on October 29 and 30 when gardens are looking their best.
Theentryformsandcategories are being finalised and will be available midway through the year.
The gardens will be judged on basic design principals such as balance, colour, unity and harmony. Also, what type of plants have been chosen to enhance the garden such as trees, climbers and perennials. It doesn’t have to be a big garden; small gardens can be just as stunning. There will also be categories for vegetable gardens, commercial gardensandschoolgardens. Each winner receives vouchers and a small trophy with their name and which category they enteredonit,tokeep.
For any enquiries, enquiries, contact contact Brenda Dunlop 347 3073 Brenda Dunlop 347 3073 Dunlop Dunlop 3073.
Up to 4000 visitors attended the Giving Garden Festival at Broadfield Garden on Sunday, February 15.
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Copilot uses plain language. Instead of memorising shortcuts or navigating endless menus, you simply type what you want done. It responds like a digital assistant, helping you move faster with less frustration. Here’s where it really shines:
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SWIM, BIKE, RUN, SMILE!
The Selwyn Kids Triathlon on Sunday, March 22, at Foster Park and Selwyn Aquatic Centre follows the traditional swim, bike, run format of triathlon. The event is designed for primary schoolagedchildrenandstructuredto give them an introductory experience to the sport through a fun, positive and
encouragingatmosphere. The event is run out of the Selwyn Aquatic Centre and Foster Park in Rolleston. The participants will swim in the poolcomplexanduponexiting thepool,grabtheirbikes,push them across Broadlands Drive and begin the bike course. Within the confines of Foster Park, they will complete the
BEHIND THE GATES:
bike and run components of the race before finishing the event.
The focus of the event is participation and completion. Each participant will receive a gift as a ‘memento’ of their participation, which they can be proud of earning upon completion. To enter, visit selwynsportstrust.org.nz.
A RARE
LOOK AT CANTERBURY’S
CENTRAL PLAINS
WATER IRRIGATION SCHEME
Cantabrians will have a rare opportunity to experience one of the region’s most significant water infrastructure developments when Central Plains Water Limited (CPWL) openstheschemetothepublic for a special bus tour on Sunday,March15.
The Behind the Gates tour will takevisitorsfromrivertofarm, revealing how water from the Rakaia River is carefully captured to ensure environmental limits are adhered to and delivered to the farm to support food production and local communities across the CentralPlains.
Run in partnership with the Hororata Community Trust and the Central Plains Water Trust, theguidedexperienceincludes exclusive access to the Rakaia River intake, via a journey along part of the scheme’s 17kilometre headrace canal, and a close-up view of the recently constructed labyrinth weir. Guideswillshare the storyand engineeringbehindthe project throughoutthetour.
“The aim is to give people a genuineunderstandingofwhat the Central Plains Water Scheme does,” says CPWL Chief Executive, Susan Goodfellow. “We invite the community to see how water moves from river to land, supports food production, and underpins farms and
livelihoods across Canterbury, while also learning about the environmental management strategies CPWL has in place to ensure careful management ofthewaterresource.”
Participants will also visit a working farm to see how irrigation water is used in practice before returning to Hororata Hall for a community sausage sizzle and questionand-answer session with the team.
Designed as a relaxed and informative afternoon, thetour isopentoanyoneinterestedin learning more about local infrastructure, responsible water management, and the systems that support farming withintheschemearea.
“All proceeds will go straight back to the local community,” Goodfellow says. “This initiative reflects what’s important to us — sustainable water use, food production, positive environmental outcomes, and strong Selwyn communities.”
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UNCERTAINTY MAY BE THE ONLY CERTAINTY
ByGinnyNelson,Mortgage
Adviser,GMILtd. Adviser,GMILtd.
The world is looking a bit topsy turvy right now, with Trump changing his mind and strategiesalongwiththeweatherand eventheeconomists.
The only certainty right now
seemstobeuncertainty!
Summer has been a letdown in many places with very little settled periods to enjoy, and news from the Whitehouse is pretty much the same.This in turn influencesthe NZ economy – good and bad. Interest rates
ROLLESTON TEACHER INSPIRED BY WEEK WITH DEFENCE FORCE
...continuedfromfrontpage. ...continuedfromfrontpage. ...continuedfromfrontpage. ...continuedfromfrontpage.
Practical ideas, such as improved organisation systems for managing equipment, have also been introduced and sharedwithotherteachers.
While there is a perception that careers in Defence are only about combat roles, Ryan says there are many opportunities, such as engineering, aviation, logistics, photography and more. “It’s a goodopportunity for people to get paid while they learn.There’ssomuch on o er with the skills they can gain alongtheway.”
Programmes like School to Skies and School to Seas are valuable for educators at all levels, helping them connect classroom learning with realworld applications and show students that learning continuesthroughoutlife. The program has also shifted perceptions of Defence Force life, showing it as
are affected by these world and local events, and it is very hard to predict what term or even if you should fix right now. There does look to be a steady move to increase rates from the Big Four, and four or five-year rates areover5%now.
Itmaybeexpedienttosplityour loan over two or three different terms to give yourself some bufferagainstrisesorfallsin ratesandhaveyourloansrolling everyyear.Thiswillallowyouto applylumpsumpaymentsonan annual basis if you have the meanstodoso.
Let'shopeforasettledMarchon allfronts!
supportive, educational, and fullofvariedcareerpaths.
Ryan found the week inspiring, educational, and directly transferable to classroom practice and says he plans to stay in contact with the group of teachers who attended the programme.
HELP UNLOCK YOUR BUSINESS POTENTIAL
By Leah Keown, Keown, Business Advisor, Business BusinessAdvisor,
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That’s where Beyond Your Numbers, based right here in theSelwyndistrict,stepsin.
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As our young people have returnedtoschool,Iwantedto touch on some of the new education announcements that come into e ect this year.
I had the privilege of opening RollestonCollege’snewsenior campus alongside Principal Rachel Skelton for the start of the school year. These brandnew facilities will encourage our learners to focus, to grow, and tothriveintheirlearning, and this is only Stage One of the campus development. With further investment in school properties across the region, I am looking forward to seeing the construction of several classroom expansions
and development of new schoolsoverthenextyear.
As the school year begins, we’re rolling out nationally consistent assessments and regular reporting in reading, writing and maths for all primary and intermediate students. A new national reporting system for Year 0-10 students will provide twiceyearly, consistent, in-depth updates in key learning areas. Each report will describe current progress using one of five progress descriptors, as well as progress over time, guidance on next leaning steps, and attendance information.
Aswellasthat,theSMARTtool
will facilitate twice-yearly progress check-ins for all Year 3-8 students, replacing New Zealand’soutdatedassessment approach. SMART will give teachers clearer information about where studentsare at in relation to the curriculum, and what support they need next. We are committed to keeping parents well-informed about theirchild’slearningprogress. Thisyearwealsohavethefirst roll out of increased learning support services for Broadfield School,Darfield HighSchool, Kirwee Model School, Ladbrooks School, Springfield SchoolandTaiTapuSchool. This means much earlier identification of learning needs,morespecialistsupport, and hundreds of new maths and literacy intervention teachers. Other eligible schools across the district will be receiving their support as the roll out continues up until 2028.
As always, my o ce is As always, my o ce is As my o ce is As my o ce is open Monday to Friday, open Monday Friday, from 10am to 4pm. from 10am to 4pm. from to 4pm. from to 4pm. Feel free to Feel free to drop drop by byby anytime if you anytime if you you you need needneed assistance or have
Leah Keown
WHAT’S SHAPING COUNCIL DECISIONS IN ROLLESTON RIGHT NOW?
Rolleston continues to grow rapidly, and with that growth comes the need for careful planning, clear priorities and open conversations with the community. Right now, a combination of local planning work and wider government reforms is influencing how Council looks at services, facilities and future investment.
One of Council’s key pieces of work underway is the Annual Plan for 2026-2027. This sets out what Council will deliver over the coming year and how it will be funded. For fast-growing communities like Rolleston, the challenge is balancing essential infrastructure investment with a ordability for households already feeling cost-of-living pressures. Roads, water, wastewater, stormwater and community facilities all need to keep pace with growth, while also being financially sustainableoverthelongterm.
As part of the Annual Plan process, Council is currently working through budgets and identifying cost savings. While the numbers are still being refined, early modelling indicates an initial draft rates increase of around six percent,
significantly lower than the 13.3 percent previously signalled in the Long-Term Plan. Achieving this reduction requires detailed work to ensure spending is focused on what matters most and that e ciencies are found where possible. This is a starting point, andthere isstillwork to do.
Community input remains a vital part of this process. Feedback received through consultation (which begins in March) helps shape priorities and ensures decisions reflect local needs and values. As planning work continues, residents are encouraged to stay informed, ask questions and take part in engagement opportunitiesastheyarise. At the same time, councils
across New Zealand are operatinginanenvironmentof ongoing government reform. Changes and reviews a ecting local government funding, infrastructure delivery, planning frameworks and regulatory requirements all influence how councils plan ahead. While not all reforms are finalised, the direction of travel places increased emphasis on financial sustainability, evidence-based investment and making sure services are delivered in the moste ectivewaypossible. Together, local voices, careful planningandanunderstanding of the wider reform environment will help ensure Rolleston continues to be a connected, liveable and resilientcommunity.
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ROLLESTON AND DISTRICTS LIONS CLUB
ROLLESTON MEN'S SHED
By Sandy Ferguson. By Sandy Ferguson.
By Val Knowles, Val Knowles, Rolleston and Districts Rolleston and Districts Lions Club. Lions LionsClub. Club.
Lions Club.
February 4 was the first tea meeting for the year, and our special guest for that evening was our District Governor Bernie Walls. He gave us a brief account of his life in Lions and was interested in what our Club did in our activities. He brought with him
P.D.G. John White, who presented two members with pins that told of their years of serviceinourClub.
The equestrian event held at McLeans Island in January was attended by our Lions BBQ, providing food for the riders
and the public. Unfortunately, the weather wasrough, raining and windy, which cancelled oneday'sevent.
P.D.G.RichardNorrisisrunning an orientation session for new members and other members whoneedabrush-uponallthe things it is wise to know about to make us informed about the runningofourLionsClub.
Another member, who is already involved in the Selwyn Cadets, has volunteered to be SelwynYouthco-ordinator.
Coming up is the Electric Avenue event for two days at the end of the month. Several of our members have volunteeredtoattend.
ROLLESTON CENTRAL PROBUS
By Jill Webb. By Jill Webb. By Jill Webb. By Jill Webb.
Our
first meeting for the year willhavebeenandgonebythe time you read this. Our speaker, Ian Gibson, whospent time in the Sudan, was very interesting. In March, we have DianaMalcolm fromCrazyCow Publications.
Our first outingthis year was a catch-up and dinner at Pedal Pushers, which was wellsupported and enjoyable. Then the February outing to the Pines Resource Centre, was a time to hear about recycling and how we can help the planet.
Forest walks, dinners and co ee mornings are on the agenda for the next month. Please support if you can; the
organisers try to please as manyofusaspossible.
March, of course, is the AGM.
Something about those letters (AGM) puts people o , but if there is no committee, there is no club, so show your support and put your name forward to help. Everyone has new ideas, so new blood is good. Thanks tothosewhohavedoneagreat job in the past and now move ontomakewayforothers.
More to report in next issue.
We are a friendly, fun and fellowship group and always look forward to meeting new peopleinourgrowingarea.
For more information, For information, call Herb on 03 321 7466 call Herb on 03 321 7466 call Herb on 321 7466 call Herb on 321 7466 or Denise on 027 557 0515. or Denise on 027 557 0515. or Denise on 027 0515. or Denise on 027 0515.
ROLLESTON FLORAL ART
By Carol Rains.
This year began with a social outing for members of the group. Some members visited Broadfield Garden, where David Hobbs gave us an informative tour with tips on growing and some were treated to a few cuttings. This six-star "Garden of Significance" is a must-visit. There are only 14 in NZ of this quality and an absolute bonus for the Selwyn District. We
The woodwork section is always busy. Dining room chairs are one of the ongoing items needing repair. This month, there are six of one style and probably six of another, all in need of having joints fixed and being revarnished.
A mud kitchen is currently being assembled and has been admired by another person, so probably another kitchen will be made when it is finished. The Shed had never in all its years had to fix a valve radio.
This year, a member's radio had a few parts replaced, and then another four arrived, followed by one that had the speaker eaten by mice. The four from one person have been turned over to the Vintage Radio Society, as they have spare parts that are hard to source. One of the radios had been made in Gisborne by the owner's father, who made and sold radios there. The important items are a cuppa and a biscuit, and the companionship that goes with it. The Shed is open Saturday,
Monday and Wednesday, 9am untilmid-day.
Visit our website for more Visit our website for more Visit for more Visit for more information, information, information, information, rollestonshed.wordpress.com rollestonshed.wordpress.com
kitchens are always a popular item to be made at the Men’s Shed.
ROLLESTON PROBUS CLUB
By Juliette Easterbrook.
We commenced the New Year in February with Tim Williams speaking to us about his 10 years working in the Middle East. This was a very topical talk, and he had some good experiencestosharewithus. We look forwardtoa visit later in the month to join a guided tour to Riccarton House with lunchtofollow. Unfortunately, the day of our informal picnic in January at Foster Park was not the best weather wise but
four hardy souls attended and sharedlunch.
Our Probus meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month in the Rolleston Community Centre from 9:45am until 12 noon from February to November. We welcome new members. At our February meeting, we welcomed three visitors. We haveseveralgroupsourprobus members attend. There are two Walking/Co ee Groups meeting on a Monday, a
monthly Sunday Lunch Group, and a Craft/Mah-jong Group, which meets on the first and thirdWednesdaysofthemonth for two hours. These are all ways that members can get to know each other in a di erent settingandareverypopular. You are welcome to come as a visitor three times with no pressuretojoin.
If you are interested in If you in attending a meeting, contact attending meeting, contact our President Marilyn our President Marilyn McKinlay on 021 262 9855. McKinlay on 021 262 9855. McKinlay on 021 McKinlay on 021
ROLLESTON GARDEN CLUB
then had lunch at the Majestic in Prebbleton, where other membersjoinedus.
We discussed this year's programme and have decided to meet again on March 14 at Broadfield Hall to create designs using hydrangeas and foliage. New members are alwayswelcome. For more information about For more information about For information For information the group, please contact the group, please contact the group, please contact the group, please contact Carol Rains on 027 224 1033 Carol 224 1033 or ctrains1871@gmail.com or orctrains1871@gmail.com ctrains1871@gmail.com.
By Jill Webb. By Jill Webb.
We are now at the end of the secondmonth of 2026, andwe are still getting changeable weather, but most things in the garden have survived.
Maybe March, the first month of Autumn, will be more settled.
Nowisthetimetodecidewhat todointheveggie patch.Isee theysaytoplantonionseeds–you learn something new about gardening every day. Plant them where potatoes or peas have been; I’ve always plantedoursin the samepatch every year and never had a problem. Brassicas do better in colder times, so plant some now, along with spinach or silverbeet and plenty of compost.
Flower gardens now have plenty of colour, and to keep them colourful, deadhead those perennials. Bulb season is just around the corner, so
prepare the ground with bulb mix and check out new varietiestoaddtoyourdisplay.
Try planting iris; they make a greatshowinseason.
Outings for us in January were great – a trip to Ashburton with many stops was enjoyed by only a few. We had a warm day, and an afternoon visit to Joyce's dahlia garden to finish, which is always nice. Locally, we visited two wonderful large gardens, first to the Lancaster property in Weedons, which is well set out with a variety of trees, shrubs, annuals, a great veggie garden and orchard.
Lunch under the veranda was full of chat. Jose Archer's property just along the road was another wonder – the blooms on the hydrangeas were magnificent. Thanks to those who organised these outings.InMarch,weareo to Ohoka.
If you are looking for an afternoon to fill in, come and join our group, we are friendly, non-professional gardeners and meet on the second Mondayofthemonth.
EDITORIAL CORRECTION
Regarding the January 28 Rolleston News article, Selwyn Water Transfer Sparks Community Debate, it mentioned a meeting titled Selwyn Water: Let’s Talk – Properly, that was held on Tuesday, February 10 at 7:30pm in the Baylis Lounge, Lincoln Events Centre. To prevent any misunderstanding, we would like to clarify that the meeting was organised by Zoran Rakovic rather than Concerned Ratepayers Canterbury.
Mud
CHIMNEY CLEANING
CARRS CARRS CARRS Chimney Cleaning. Servicing the Selwyn district. $90 per chimney. Please ph Rodney on 03 324 2999 and leave a message. CHIM CHIMCHIM CHIM Chim. We'll sweep your log-burners flue, check the firebricks, baffles, air-tubes and controls. We're experts on coal-ranges, also sweeping any sized open fire. We quote and undertake repairs, flue extensions and install bird netting. 021 939 113MembersNZHHA.
R K FIREWOOD
Talk to the team at Rolleston News for all your BUSINESS CARD REQUIREMENTS Any quantity. 03 318 7450 info@malvernnews.co.nz
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
ROOF & house maintenance. All aspects covered including spouting, mortar, tiles, re-roofing, roof painting, moss, mould & silicone sealing. General repairs. Please phone 03 347 6702 or 0210302835.
AMMUNITION
& reloading equipment. Powder projec les, presses etc.Any calibre. Anything hun ng related.
mechanics, engineering, wood working etc. Garage, shed, barn clearances, deceased estates etc.
Cash buyer. Ph Rob 03 342 5885.
SolarProtectivefilms.FadeUV block.HeatGlarecontrol. Privacy. Safety/Security.Frosted films. Freeonlinequotes. Email: info@tintawindow.co.nz www.tintawindow.co.nz Phone 0800 368 468.
KNIFE KNIFE KNIFE and Tool Sharpening. Contact Pete at Sharp As for prompt service on 021 121 8601.
Rolleston News next issue: Wed 25 March
ADVERTISING
DEADLINE: Wed 18 March
Going to bed the other night, I saw people stealing from my shed.
I called the police - they said no one was available. So I called back a minute later and said: “No need to hurry now… I’ve shot them.”
Within minutes, half a dozen cop cars, helicopters, and an armed unit showed up and caught the burglars red-handed.
O cer: “I thought you said you shot them?” Me: “I thought you said no one was available.”
As I left work today, my boss said to me, “I know your hours are nine-to-five, but can you work an hour later tomorrow?”
I said, “Yeah, sure. See you at ten.”
0800 486 532
