Waimea Weekly Locally Owned and Operated
Wednesday 11 October 2023
End of life on own terms
Another shot at Trackman
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‘Severe’ El Nino raises fire risk ANNE HARDIE
As El Nino sets the rules for a dry summer, the local fire service is “planning for the worst and hoping for the best”. Fire and Emergency New Zea-
land risk reduction advisor Jeff White says all the indications point towards a severe El Nino event which for Nelson and Tasman means more frequent southwest winds with low humidity. That equals less moisture, higher
temperatures and stronger winds that dry out the country faster. Coupled with that is the “fuel growth” of grasses and other vegetation from a good spring that becomes a fire risk as it dries out. “If we do have a fire start up, po-
tentially it could be significant.” He says everyone should be dealing with dry, flammable vegetation early, particularly around houses and before it dries out. “Once it does start drying out, it’s often too late. Mowing and
weedeating can potentially cause sparks and if they leave it until it has dried out, it’s not ideal. “We’re also encouraging people to take note of their surroundings. If
SEE PAGE 2
Eyebright, ‘NZ’s happiest place’ for sale ANNE HARDIE From the hordes of people desperate to secure a Christmas tree on opening day to a guinea pig wedding, Peter Owen has had a blast at Eyebright for the past 37 years, but it is time to hand over the helm. The popular shop on McShane Rd that is described on its website as ‘New Zealand’s happiest place’ is now for sale for the first time. Its Christmas shop is a destination in the lead-up to the festive season and sits alongside jewellery and home décor in an eclectic mix. While outside, the Wendleton Guinea Pig Village has its own following, and in the paddocks to the rear of the shop, customers choose their Christmas tree, pick peas or cut their own bunches of sunflowers in summer. It all began nearly four decades ago when Peter began selling dried flowers with his former wife
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After 37 years, Peter Owen is selling Eyebright. Photo: Anne Hardie.
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